Peat Vs Coco Peat + How to Make A SIMPLE DIY Potting Mix

Summary

In this informative episode of the My Gardener Channel, Luke compares two popular potting mix options: peat moss-based and coco coir-based. He explains the benefits and drawbacks of both, including sustainability concerns for peat moss and the potential salt content in coco coir. While peat moss offers a proven, soil-like substitute, it is acidic and less sustainable. In contrast, coco coir is a more eco-friendly alternative with a neutral pH, though it requires washing to remove salt. Both mixes require additional amendments like perlite, vermiculite, and fertilizers for optimal plant growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 Peat moss-based potting mixes are commonly used for their light, fluffy texture and excellent water retention.
• 😀 🌱 Coco coir-based mixes are a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to peat moss, made from coconut husks.
• 😀 🛑 Peat moss is a non-renewable resource, which raises environmental concerns despite efforts to make it more sustainable.
• 😀 🧪 Peat moss typically has a low pH (around 4.5-5), so it often needs amendments like lime to balance the pH.
• 😀 💧 Coco coir has a neutral pH (around 7), making it easier for plants to thrive without additional amendments.
• 😀 🧂 Coco coir may have high salt content due to seawater used during processing, but washing it can remove the salt.
• 😀 📦 A 10-pound compressed block of coco coir expands to a larger volume when hydrated, offering good value.
• 😀 ⚖️ Both peat moss and coco coir benefit from added perlite and vermiculite to improve aeration and moisture retention.
• 😀 🌾 Neither peat moss nor coco coir contains the necessary nutrients for plants, so additional fertilization is important.
• 😀 🪴 Both peat moss and coco coir work well for seed-starting mixes and container gardening, with coco coir being more sustainable.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between peat moss-based and coco coir-based potting mixes?

The main difference lies in the source material. Peat moss is harvested from bogs and is a non-renewable resource, while coco coir is a byproduct of the coconut industry and is renewable. Coco coir also tends to have a neutral pH, unlike peat moss which is acidic and often requires amendments like dolomitic lime.

What are the benefits of using peat moss-based potting mixes?

Peat moss-based mixes are widely used due to their fluffy texture and ability to retain moisture. They also mimic soil behavior despite being soil-less, which makes them a good substitute for traditional soil in gardening.

What are the potential downsides of using peat moss in gardening?

Peat moss is a non-renewable resource, and its extraction raises environmental concerns. Additionally, peat moss is highly acidic with a pH of 4.5 to 5, which may require amendments like dolomitic lime to balance its acidity.

Why do some gardeners prefer coco coir over peat moss?

Coco coir is favored by some gardeners because it is a renewable resource, unlike peat moss, and it has a neutral pH, which eliminates the need for additional pH-balancing amendments. It's also lightweight and has good moisture retention.

What is the process of making coco coir usable for gardening?

Coco coir comes in compressed blocks that must be rehydrated before use. This involves adding water to the coir, allowing it to absorb the water and expand. Some gardeners also wash the coir to remove salt content, which can affect plant health.

How does coco coir compare to peat moss in terms of environmental impact?

Coco coir is considered more environmentally friendly than peat moss because it is a renewable byproduct of the coconut industry. In contrast, peat moss is a non-renewable resource, and its extraction can harm ecosystems.

What is the potential issue with salt in coco coir, and how is it addressed?

Coco coir may contain salt due to its production in regions with limited fresh water. This salt can be harmful to plants, so gardeners often wash the coir with extra water to remove the salt before use. Multiple washes may be needed for thorough cleaning.

Why is it important to amend coco coir with perlite and vermiculite?

Perlite and vermiculite are added to coco coir to improve aeration, prevent compaction, and enhance moisture and nutrient retention. These amendments help make the coco coir behave more like a traditional potting mix.

How do peat moss-based mixes and coco coir-based mixes differ in terms of pH and fertilization?

Peat moss tends to be acidic, with a pH of 4.5 to 5, requiring pH adjustments, whereas coco coir has a neutral pH of around 7. Both types of mixes need to be fertilized because they do not contain sufficient nutrients for plant growth.

What are the advantages of using coco coir for seed starting and potting mixes?

Coco coir is lightweight, easy to handle, and provides excellent moisture retention. Its neutral pH is ideal for a wide variety of plants, making it a versatile option for both seed starting and potting mixes. Additionally, it expands significantly when hydrated, making it an efficient material.