Coir Terminology

The term originally referred to water-based growing systems, but now more recently refers to all soilless growing systems.

Using alternative materials as a growing media, instead of using soil. The system is disconnected from the soil. This method enables the grower a better control on the rhizosphere. It is also an efficient way to avoid soil diseases and an inhomogeneous soil.

The method to define different Coir fractions and the key to matching the right material for different conditions (Climate, Plant, Irrigating system…).

Some plants are more sensitive to salt concentration in the rhizosphere. For this  growth sensitivity it is also possible to purchase the Coir at lower E.C. levels.

Usually it is recommended to treat the Coir with CaNO₃ before using it. Pelemix offers the option of buying the Coir after it has already been treated.

The most modern technology for hydroponic growth is based on Coir - cocopeat wrapped in plastic bag (growbag). The product is supplied compressed and achieves its final volume after wetting.

Most nurseries and some vegetables growers are interested in growing each plant in separate containers. This product is a full plastic bag with drainage holes in its base, the upper part is completely open. Inside the plastic bag there is a compressed slab of Coir- cocopeat that will expand when irrigated with water.

Some growers prefer to replant more adult plants into the growbags. In order to do so the young plants are  planted first in  Coir- cocopeat cubes wrapped with a net (the cubes are supplied compressed and expand when wetted) . After the plants have grown they are simply placed on the growbag (on top of planting holes that were made in advance).

Rounded compressed material for round containers and round planting holes in nurseries trays. When the disk is wetted it expands vertically and fills the container or planting hole in trays.

Pieces of Coir-made from the husk. The chips are usually used to increase the drainage ability of the growing media.

Coarser material made of long fibers and chips. It is a very popular as a growing media in regions of cold climate and low radiation.

Combination of 16 mm material and Crash.  It is  very popular as a growing media in regions of cold winters and hot summers.

The outer shell/coating of the Coco nut. It is the raw material for all coir products, ropes and mattresses.

Volcanic mineral. It is created when hot lava meets sea water. In order to make the growing media a lot of heating energy is needed. In the heating process the trapped water turns into steam and the mineral becomes much larger and aerated.

Synthetic material that is still very popular in hydroponics systems. Its production demands heating to very high temperatures, and must be treated with caution (Might irritate eyes and skin.). When used as a growing media high numbers of irrigations will be needed.