Coir
Coir, or coconut fibre, is a natural fibre extracted from the outer husk of coconut and used in products such as floor mats, doormats, brushes and mattresses. Coir is the fibrous material found between the hard, internal shell and the outer coat of a coconut. Also known as coco coir or coconut fiber, it comes from the husk of the coconut fruit, and it's used in everything from home decor to construction. For foliage lovers, coconut coir can provide soil structure, drainage, and aeration to keep plants healthy. Unlike soil, coco coir is completely inert meaning you will need to provide your plants with all of the nutrients it needs to optimise healthy growth. This is great for those looking to have total control over your plants diet, but it is important to avoid overfeeding. Coconut fiber is one of three key coconut coir products. The fiber is the straw-like part of the coconut husk. Coconut peat or coconut pith is a finely ground product that looks a little peat moss. Finally, there are coconut chips, which look like wood chips and absorb moisture like clay pellets. Coconut coir can be used as the growing medium for both seedlings and mature plants, as rooting mats and growing baskets, and for rooting cuttings. No matter what form of coco coir you're using, always wet it thoroughly before you plant, and pay careful attention to the moisture level during the growing process. Coco coir is an organic compound that adds to the absorbency, water retention and drainage of potting soil and is also a fine amendment to garden soil. Use coir on its own to sprout seeds, propagate plants and provide support to the root structures of hydroponically grown plants.
