Coconut Coir
Coir (pronounced "choir" as in church choir) fiber is an environmentally friendly, renewable resource, composed of a byproduct of coconut harvesting. It is about 70% of the weight of the coconut husk. It is rich in lignin and tannin and it also has lignocellulosic bonds, which is resistant to microbiological attack. Coir fiber is highly porous to aid in a strong root system. pH neutral, it has water retention capacities of up to 88% and air-filled porosity values of 23%-29%. Its nutrient-holding capacity is a bit less than peat, but it does contain significantly higher levels of soluble salts.
Coconut coir is in great demand due to its natural resilience, durability, resistance to dampness and other properties. Grading of coir is based on its fibre length, colour, resilience and general cleanliness in relation to the quantity of pith present.
Coir fiber not only revitalizes your plants, it induces uniformity in growth by enhancing water retention and microbial activity. Coir pith contains high quality of nutrients that keep the soil healthy in a natural way. It acts as a top dressing that helps maintain moisture and reconditions the soil. Coir pith enhances the nutrient carrying capacity of plants.
Sustainable agriculture practices such as this creates a healthy perfect loop from table to earth. Pure and natural, this organic biodegradable matter is an economical and natural alternate for rockwool slabs, peatmoss and perlite .
Bottom Line: This is our pick as an alternative to peat moss, vermiculite and perlite.
