The Best of Both Worlds
Looking for a method that combines the best of traditional soil growing and highly efficient hydroponics? Then coco coir is just right for you. Growing in coco has become hugely popular in recent years – and for good reason.
In this article you’ll learn why coco is the ideal medium for vigorous plants and big yields, and what to watch out for when using it, from weedx.ch. Whether you start with cannabis seeds or hemp clones, coco coir gives you a flexible base for your grow.
What exactly is coco coir?
Coco coir is a by-product of the coconut industry. The fibrous husk of the coconut is processed into an airy, neutral substrate. Unlike soil, coco is an inert medium with no nutrients of its own. That means you have full control over everything your plant takes up.
The advantages of coco coir
Why are more and more growers choosing coco? Here are the facts:
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Explosive root growth: coco fibres hold water very well while also providing plenty of oxygen. This leads to faster, healthier root growth than in conventional soil.
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Faster growth: because the roots can breathe more easily and nutrients are directly available, plants grow much faster in the vegetative phase.
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Reusable: coco is eco-friendly and, if properly treated (rinsed and buffered), can be used several times.
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Fewer pests: many pests that thrive in organic soil (such as fungus gnats) don’t find coco an attractive habitat.
What to watch out for when growing in coco
Coco coir behaves more like a hydroponic system. That brings a few special considerations:
1. Nutrient supply (fertiliser)
Since coco contains no nutrients of its own, you have to feed from day one. Be sure to use fertiliser developed specifically for “coco”. These often contain extra calcium and magnesium (CalMag), because coco coir tends to bind these minerals instead of passing them on to the plant.
2. pH is crucial
In coco, the ideal pH is lower than in soil. It should stay consistently between 5.5 and 6.5. A digital pH meter is your best friend here to make sure your plants can absorb nutrients properly.
3. Watering correctly
In coco it’s hard to overwater plants, as long as you use pots with good drainage. It’s recommended to always water with some run-off to avoid salt build-up in the substrate.
Conclusion: is it worth switching?
If you’re willing to pay closer attention to pH and feeding, coco coir will reward you with healthier plants and often much higher yields. It’s the perfect start for anyone who wants “hydroponic results” without giving up the feel of pots and substrate.
Quality starts with knowledge: at weedx.ch we love the botany behind hemp. Take a look around our shop and discover the result of professional growing methods in our first-class CBD flowers!
