Cocopeat in Hydroponics

Cocopeat, a byproduct of coconut processing, has gained widespread use in hydroponic systems due to its unique characteristics. It is an ideal medium for soilless cultivation since it has excellent water retention, aeration, inexpensive, and eco-friendly. Its structure which comprises fine coir fibers allows capillary action to make sure that water and nutrients are evenly distributed to plant roots. These properties make cocopeat a reliable alternative to soil especially for crops requiring consistent moisture levels and aeration.

Nonetheless, although it has its benefits, cocopeat needs to be buffered before application. Raw cocopeat contains naturally high levels of sodium and potassium ions, which can disrupt nutrient balance in hydroponic systems. These ions compete with essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium which could result in deficiencies for the plants.

Buffering cocopeat involves washing it with a calcium-enriched solution to displace these excess ions. A study by Mariyappillai et al. (2021) highlights the importance of buffering cocopeat, demonstrating how untreated cocopeat can hinder plant growth due to its poor buffering capacity and high salinity levels.

Another critical characteristic of cocopeat is its biodegradability which makes it environmentally sustainable. Unlike synthetic substrates, cocopeat decomposes naturally, reducing waste in agricultural systems. However, this property also means that cocopeat can degrade over time which alters its physical structure and nutrient-holding capacity. Regular monitoring and maintenance of cocopeat-based systems are necessary to maintain consistent performance.

Buffering cocopeat also prevents the accumulation of harmful salts which can build up over time in hydroponic setups. High salinity levels not only affect nutrient availability but can also impair plant growth and yield. A study by Ahmad et al. (2009) emphasizes the role of buffering in enhancing the chemical stability of cocopeat to make sure that there won’t be a nutrient lockout in the growing media. 

At NutriHydro, the team is serious about preparing the growing media and the nutrients that the plants will need. With cocopeat as the most available material in the Philippines to use in hydroponics, utilizing its efficiency and convenience will give the growers a profitable system. 

References:

Krishnapillai, M., Young-Uhk, S., Friday, J., & Haase, D. (2020). Locally Produced Cocopeat Growing Media for Container Plant Production. Tree Planter’s Notes, 63(1), 29–38. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Diane-Haase/publication/343514841_Locally_Produced_Cocopeat_Growing_Media_for_Container_Plant_Production/links/5f2dd144458515b7290d326f/Locally-Produced-Cocopeat-Growing-Media-for-Container-Plant-Production.pdf 

Ilahi, W. F. F., & Ahmad, D. (2017). A study on the physical and hydraulic characteristics of cocopeat perlite mixture as a growing media in containerized plant production. Sains Malaysiana, 46(6), 975–980. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2017-4606-17 

Mariyappillai, A., & Arumugam, G. (2021). Physico-chemical and hydrological properties of soilless substrates. Journal of Environmental Biology, 42(3), 700–704. https://doi.org/10.22438/jeb/42/3/mrn-1504 

Ahmad, N. (2009). Chemical and Physical Characteristics of Cocopeat-Based Media Mixtures and Their Effects on the Growth and Development of Celosia cristata. American Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 4(1), 63–71. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajab.2009.63.71