Looking for coco coir for mushroom cultivation guide?

Whether you love gardening or are planning on commercial mushroom cultivation, one core ingredient that can help you achieve your goal is coco coir. If you want to know how coco coir can be a great option for mushroom cultivation, then stick to this guide for useful tips. Before we get started, there’s one interesting fact about mushroom cultivation that some people might not be aware of: due to its lower space requirement and lower investment cost, it can result in significant profits for commercial purposes. Before diving into the topics, let’s first have a look at what coco coir is.

What is Coco Coir?

Coco coir is a by-product of coconuts and is often available in the market in the form of coco coir bricks. To use coco coir for gardening, follow these steps. The first of which is hydrating these blocks. The process is simple; all you need to do is soak the coconut coir bricks in a large container with lukewarm water to allow them to expand.

The bricks are all allowed to be soaked until they take the appearance of soil. Coco coir is a perfect alternative to traditional peat moss and has extensive uses in agriculture, hydroponic systems, and indoor and outdoor plantations. Coco coir can be brought into use for houseplants and ensures healthy root growth with its water-retention properties.

Why Use Coco Coir in Mushroom Cultivation?

Here’s why you should use coco coir in mushroom cultivation;

Benefits

• For better mushroom growth, it is important to use a growing medium that allows good air exchange. In doing so, coco coir can be a great option as it possesses great air absorption properties, which help in better mushroom growth.

• One important part of the cultivation of mushrooms is the development of mycelium. To promote this development, the substrate should maintain moisture. For doing so, coco coir can be ideal as it has good moisture retention properties.

• The most preferred growing medium for mushrooms should have pH values between 6 to 6.5, which is very similar to that of coco coir.

• For healthy mycelium development, the growing medium should have high contents of carbon content to provide a nurturing environment. And this can be possible by using coco coir as it has high contents of carbon content.

• Coco coir is ideal for mushroom cultivation because of its low maintenance requirements. It does not require frequent maintenance and can serve for years.

• Another benefit of using coco coir as a substrate for mushroom cultivation is its property of being chemically inert. It does not interfere with the development of mycelium.

• Coco coir is comparatively a safe environment to use for mushroom cultivation, as it is processed, washed, and sterilized before being sold in the market.

• Nutrient Control Supply: An accurate supply of essential nutrients can increase the yields and improve the quality of the mushrooms.

Comparison with other substrates

• Coco Coir Vs Soil:

If we compare the water retention properties of the two growing medium, it can be stated that coco coir has better water retention properties. It can retain moisture, which is essential for optimal mushroom cultivation.

However, if we talk about the nutritional contents of the two, the soil has relatively more nutrients available that are required for plant growth. Whereas, coco coir does not have any nutritional value, and supplements are required to add nutritional value to it.

If we talk about the environmental impact of the two media, coco coir is more environmentally friendly and is sustainable. 

• Coco Coir Vs Peat Moss:

If we compare the applications of coco coir and peat moss, it can be clearly stated that each of the growing media has its benefits, which include good water retention as well as great air exchange capabilities. What makes them different is the usage and production. Peat moss takes years to develop and is not considered a sustainable option where whereas coco coir is eco-friendly, sustainable, and can serve for many years without requiring maintenance.

On the other hand, if we compare the pH values of the two. Peat moss is slightly acidic, which is favorable for growing acid-loving plants. Whereas, coco coir is neutral and can transfer the nutrients to the plant roots to support better root growth.

Preparing Coco Coir for Mushrooms

The following steps are performed to make coco coir for mushrooms;

1. The first step in this process is to hydrate and break the coco coir bricks.
2. Coco coir bricks are allowed to soak in a large container with lukewarm water.
3. The final step in this process is to fluff the coco coir, such that when it is squeezed, it should leave a few drops of water. It is important to ensure that the coco coir is damp and not wet.

• Pasteurization Vs Sterilization

In order to pasteurize coco coir and eliminate the risk of any potential contaminants, coco coir is soaked in hot water and allowed to be soaked into it for about 20-30 minutes. This not only hydrates the coco coir bricks but also pasteurizes them.

Sterilizing the coco coir is an optional step, although after soaking it in hot water, it is fully pasteurized and there are very less chances of contamination, but for further protection, in some cases, sterilization of coco coir is also done. To do so, coco coir is supposed to be baked in the oven or a pressure cooker to completely sterilize it.

• Mixing with Vermiculite

As discussed earlier, coco coir itself does not contain any nutrients, and supplements are supposed to be added to it to make up its nutritional profile. For doing so, vermiculite and gypsum are added to it. Vermiculite is added to it as it allows better aeration where whereas gypsum serves as a calcium supplement. In most cases, the mixing takes place in a ratio where 25% vermiculite and 25% gypsum are added to 50% coco coir. But this ratio can be altered as per the needs and type of mushroom species.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Contamination

Contamination is a common problem that needs to be taken into account for mushroom cultivation. To make sure no contamination takes place, it is recommended to use coco coir that is fully pasteurized and sterilized.

• Moisture level

Mushrooms require a certain amount of moisture for better growth, if the moisture level is too high or too low, it may affect mushroom growth. Therefore, moisture levels should be carefully controlled.

• pH Values

Mushroom requires a neutral pH substrate for growth. It should be taken into account that coco coir is neutral, and if it is slightly acidic, then necessary amendments should be carried out to neutralize its pH value.

• Aeration and Nutritional Contents

To avoid poor aeration, vermiculite should be added to the coco coir. Likewise, coco coir has no nutritional profile of its own, but mushrooms require certain nutrients to support their growth. To do so, gypsum should be added to compensate for the calcium supplementation.

• Proper Spacing

Mushrooms require adequate spacing for better growth, therefore, overcrowding should be avoided, and proper spacing between the species should be maintained.

Final Thoughts

If you want to increase your mushroom cultivation, it is advisable to use a substrate that is inexpensive and readily available. And coco coir ticks all these boxes, all you need to do is take care of certain steps and ensure coco coir is safe, clean, and good to use. Coco coir is a budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and sustainable substrate for mushroom cultivation.

If you want to avail high-quality coco coir at a market-competitive price, then visit Earth Scape website for further information.

FAQs

1. What is coco coir?

Coco coir is obtained from the husk of coconut shells. It is a by product of the coconut and can be suitable for growing mushrooms.

2. What is added to coco coir to make it suitable for mushroom cultivation?

Vermiculite and gypsum for better aeration and calcium supplementation.

3. What pH levels are suitable for mushroom cultivation?

Neutral pH values of the substrate are favorable for the mushroom cultivation.

4. Is the sterilization of coco coir necessary for mushroom cultivation?

It is an optional step to ensure that contaminants are not present, which may hinder mushroom growth.

5. Which property of coco coir supports mycelium development?

The water retention capability of coco coir supports mycelium development.

6. Why is coco coir a preferable substrate for mushroom cultivation?

Coco coir is naturally resistant to contaminants, making it suitable for mushroom cultivation.

There are several compelling reasons why international buyers, including farmers, entrepreneurs, and individuals associated with the agriculture and horticulture industries, prefer buying coco peat in bulk. The most common reason is cost efficiency, just like any other industry, buying coco peat in bulk allows you to save money per unit. Additionally, bulk buying also saves shipping charges in many cases, resulting in an overall saving.

If you are also looking to buy coco peat in bulk, then there are certain key points you must take into account before making the purchase. To understand these key points, be sure to read the blog to the end to access useful information.

Introduction to Coco Peat

Before getting into the details, let’s first understand what coco peat is and why it is growing popular for export. Coco peat is another name for coco coir; in simple terms, it is a by product of the coconut. It is derived from the husk of the coconut shell, and is becoming a popular substrate for growing many plants because of its water retention ability. Talking about its texture, it is spongy and non-fibrous. What makes coco peat so useful and important in horticulture and agriculture is because of its following properties;

• It has great water and moisture retention.
• It allows great air exchange, which helps in good root growth.
• It is lightweight.
• It is eco-friendly and sustainable; it can be used for several years without requiring any major maintenance or changes.
• It is resistant to molds and fungi.
• It is safe and clean, as it is pasteurized and sterilized to remove the risk of any potential contamination.

Benefits of buying Coco Peat in Bulk

Cost Effective

As discussed above, buying coco peat in bulk can save you money as it allows you to make the purchase at a lower price per unit and also reduces or waives the shipping charges.

Better Quality

When you buy coco peat in bulk, you can be sure of its quality as it comes from the same batch. The quality of coco peat is dependent on its texture, moisture level, and pH levels. When buying a bigger batch of coco peat, you can uniformly monitor and check the quality of the coco peat.

Prevents Stock shortage

It is important to maintain your coco peat storage when using it for regular potting or large-scale plantations. By buying coco peat in bulk, you don’t run out of storage, and it is easier to maintain inventory.

Sustainable and eco-friendly

When you buy coco peat in bulk, it is usually delivered in packaging that is more eco-friendly and sustainable compared to small packaging that comes in plastic bags.

Ease of customization

One advantage of buying coco peat in bulk is the ease of customization. When you order a bulk of coco peat, the suppliers facilitate you to provide coco peat as per your requirements. As we know, certain supplementation is added to coco peat to add to its nutritional content, such as vermiculite or gypsum. When buying in bulk, you can maintain ratios of supplementation added as per the requirement of the plant and get a customized bulk of coco peat.

What International buyers should check before buying a Bulk of Coco Peat

The following are the aspects a buyer should consider before buying a bulk of coco peat;

Quality Standards

Before buying coco peat, it is important to have an idea of what type of coco peat you are in search of. Coco peat is usually available as washed or unwashed. The major difference between washed and unwashed coco peat is the content of salt present. Unwashed coco peat tends to have high levels of salt, which can trigger the growth of sensitive plants. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference and place an order as per your requirement.

The second thing you need to check is the electrical conductivity of the coco peat, which generally indicates and measures the salt content present in it. For sensitive crops, low electrical conductivity is favorable.

Another important thing to check is the pH levels of coco peat, which should be between 5.5 to 6.8, making it slightly acidic.

Texture

It is important to ensure the texture of coco peat; the interference of too many dust particles in the composition of coco peat hinders and affects its water retention ability and air exchange.

Moisture Level

One thing about coco peat that you should never ignore is its moisture level. Coco peat should be slightly wet, or we can say damp. If it is overly wet, it may get contaminated and affect your plant growth.

Packaging

The packaging of coco peat depends on how the supplier provides it to you. It is important to communicate with your supplier and discuss the type of packing you want, whether it is plastic wrap, a jute bag, or palletized. Coco peat should be properly dried and stored to prevent the risk of fungal attack.

Shipping Terms

If you are doing an international purchase of coco peat in bulk, make sure to confirm compliance with phytosanitary regulations. Keep a check on your delivery, whether it is delivered on time or not.

Top Exporting Countries of Coco Peat

Let’s have a look at the countries that are the primary or leading exporters of Coco Peat, these include;

• Sri Lanka – Colombo
• India – Chennai, Tuticorin
• Indonesia – Jakarta, Surbabaya
• Philippines
• Vietnam

Apart from these, some secondary suppliers are emerging in the industry, including;

• Thailand
• Malaysia
• Brazil

How to Avoid Scams or Poor Quality

Getting scammed by a supplier is possible, therefore, it is important to cross-check the product quality and verify the supplier’s credentials before placing a bulk order. By following the steps, you can avoid scams and be sure of the quality of coco peat.

Suppliers Credibility

Before placing your order, do your complete research about the supplier. Check their certifications, website, and customer reviews. Make sure to use a reliable platform to place your order.

Ask for a Sample

Before placing a bulk order, ask for a small sample from the supplier to assess the overall quality, moisture level, and texture of coco peat.

Secure your Payments

Always use secure methods of payment to avoid scams.

Agreement with the supplier

Make a written agreement with the supplier and discuss the unit of coco peat, along with per-unit rate, delivery time, and shipping cost.

Track shipment

Once your order is shipped, track your shipment regularly and also ask the supplier to provide your custom documents for further clearance and trust.

Hire a third-party inspection agency

If you still don’t feel safe, you can also opt to go for a third-party inspection agency.

Conclusion

If you are willing to place your bulk order of coco peat, Earth Scape can be a great one-stop solution for you. We import high-quality coco peat all across the world with on-time delivery and exceptional customer service. We are a team of highly professional staff, based in Sri Lanka, and have been benefiting our customers for the past 20 years. You can visit our website and contact us for a supplier list or a quote.

FAQs about Coco Peat Importing

• Is it better to buy washed or unwashed coco peat?

It depends on the type of plant species you want to grow; washed coco peat has low salt levels and is preferable for sensitive plants.

• What should be the pH values of an ideal coco peat?

Coco peat ideally should be acidic with a pH value ranging between 5.5 to 6.8.

• How to make sure the coco peat is free from pests?

To ensure coco peat is free from pests, it is sterilized by baking in the oven or a pressure cooker.

• How to cross-check if the coco peat is free from pests and diseases?

Most countries ask exporters to provide a phytosanitary certificate.

• How can I check the quality of coco peat before placing a bulk order?

You can ask the supplier to provide you with a small sample to test and evaluate before placing a bulk order.

• How can I check if the exporter is genuine and professional?

Check the company’s website, their certifications, and the company’s registration.

• How long does the bulk order of coco peat take to arrive?

Production usually takes 7-14 days, plus, depending on the destination, the shipping can take up to 3 to 6 weeks.

Are you new to gardening? and wondering whether to use loam soil or coco peat? today we will be discussing two popular choices coco peat and loam soil that will help you decide what is best for you.

Coco peat

Coco peat may sound fancy for beginners, but it’s a very simple and helpful material used for growing plants. Coco peat known and referred as coconut fiber or coco peat is extracted from the coconut and is a very common by product of the coconut industry. It is an 100% ecofriendly naturally extracted organic material that is commonly used in gardening and agriculture industry.

Key features of Coco peat include being light in weight and porous. It has a neutral pH value and free from any pathogens. With excellent water retention capacity, it is 100% ecofriendly. Coco peat various features and benefits is making it a first choice growing medium to replace in with organic soil replacement.

The types of coco peat include loose and coco peat which is ready to use and fluffy. There is washed and unwashed coco peat in which washed ones has the excess salt removed making it ideal for sensitive plants.  Other types and forms are also available that included compressed and in bricks forms. The compacted and dehydrated makes it easy for storage and transport which is expanded with addition of water.

How to use?

• Mixing soil with regular coco peat so it can be lighter and hold water better
• When using for seed starting, its soft and holds the moisture which is essential for growing seeds.
• Herbs and flowers can also be grown directly in coco peat in containers and pots
• If you are making a composite, it can be added for improvement of texture.

Advantages of Coco peat

• 100% natural and eco-friendly: In this era of Industrialization it is very important to move towards ecofriendly alternates and substitutes. Coco peat is a smart and efficient use of the by product of the coconut industry. As it is a bio gradable substance, it holds the characteristics for a long time. On other hand it also prevents from the adheres environmental impact promoting sustainability.
• Nutrients & Water Retention: Cocopeathas water absorbing qualities allows the texture to hold water which is gradually released. It consists of nutrients like potassium and phosphorous which helps in plant’s growth providing strong roots.
• PH Balance: Coco peat’s PH value characteristics of Peat is 5.8-6.5 which is suitable for all plants. When pH value is below range of 7, it highlights acidity were as value above 7 indicates alkalinity.
• Solid Amendment& Aeration: It is considered as a perfect soil amendment.Coco peat helps in providing more porous soil, which permits air and water to move openly giving improved growth.

Loam Soil

After a detailed overview of coco peat, lets discuss about loam soil. To understand the basics is that Loam soil is a mixture of 3 ingredients Sand, slit and clay. The combination of all 3 mixtures gives you a loam a soft crumbly texture. The composition is as follows

• Sand (around 40%) – Adds drainage and air space.
• Silt (around 40%) – Holds moisture and nutrients.
• Clay (around 20%) – Helps in retention of water and nutrients but can be heavy.

Discussing the characteristics of Loam Soil

• Color: Loam soil is generally dark in color black or brown, and rich in organic matter
• Texture: No too dry or sticky, with a soft and crumbly texture
• PH Value: Loam soil has a higher acidic to natural value ranging from pH 6-7.
• Drainage: Loam soil holds moisture well.
• Aeration: Yes, it does allow the air to flow freely.
• Nutrient Content: as loam soil is an organic matter it is rich with nutrients.

Loam soil can be slightly differing in types

Sandy Loam: It is more sandy which drains water quickly and is best suited for vegetables like carrot and potatoes

Silty Loam: It is more in slit which holds water longer and smoothly. Silty loam is best used for leafy greens and herbs.

Clay loam: Has more clay composition, holding nutrients and water together. It is best suited for heavy feeding plants, trees and shrubs.

Summarizing the benefits of Loam Soil

• Support all types of roots plants
• Rich in nutrients due to its organic matter
• Can be shaped into beds/rows and easy to dig and till.
• Helps in increasing plants yield, and improved plants health with minimum amendments.

Understanding the growing mediums is the first step towards healthy plants as each has its own strengths and draw backs. Our overview will give you an idea what is best for your needs and how it can help you.

Contact Earth Scape who offers bulk coco peat.

Wants to know how to check the quality of coco peat?

Coco peat is an alternative to peat moss and is a growing medium gaining popularity with a decline in demand for peat moss. We are always keen to spread awareness for consumers on how they can make the best-informed decision before their next purchase.

Coco Peat has become a common product for different hydroponics, agriculture, and growing needs. These days, a number of suppliers and different brands of coco coir are available in the market as its demand is constantly increasing in popularity.

Every available brand in the market states that they sell the best quality growing medium and offer a premium brand. This is where it makes it tricky for consumers to determine which is the best value for money and who is providing the best quality product suiting their needs.

Below are a few methods mentioned which can help you determine the best quality and are industry’s best method for testing.

pH value testing

This method is similar to the EC method testing, which we will be discussing below. 1:5 dry is used when testing the pH value. RO water, which is neutral with 7.0, is commonly used as the solution for coco peat. You are required to pour an accurate amount of water equal to 5 times to soak. Then, it is stirred and left alone for the next 15 minutes. Then, using a pH meter, the solution is determined. The value which is extracted is the exact pH value of the coco peat.

EC Testing

This testing is performed by extracting water from the material. It is used to check the electrical conductivity of coco peat. There are 2 common methods which are used mainly which is wet and dry.

• The wet method: this is the stringent quality control and is also known as the 1:1:5 method. By using a sample of coco peat demineralized in water to fully expand. You are required to take a precise 3 times the water equal to the weight of the coco peat to be mixed. For example, 100 ml of the mixture is diluted with 150 ml of demineralized water. Once the mixture is properly stirred, it is left to soak. Then, the mixture goes through an EC evaluation test with the help of the meter.

• The Dry method: it is carried out after defibering the coco coir and is known as the 1:5 method. A part of Coco peat is broken into five parts with mineralized water, ie (100 to 500ml). when stirred and soaked, you measure the EC value. This dry method is volumetric and used worldwide. Do keep in mind that this dry method can be affected by the presence of Sand in the solution. The formula EC of coco peat is measured as ECs-ECw (ms/cm).

Moisture Test

This is one of the most essential tests for cocopeat, which is used as a growth amendment. Whether the coco peat is packed in loose bags or is compressed, coco peat retains around 15-25% of the moisture. The moisture level also differs depending on the method by which it is dried.

If it is dried from direct sunlight, then the moisture levels should not be less than 60%, and if the hot oven is dying, the level should now be below 75%. The hot oven drying coco peat is checked with formula (100-W) %.  The matter ratio Is 1:5:7 parts of coco peat.

Expansion Volume

Another test is the expansion volume test. Take a slice from the coco peat block, which is around 1 kg mix and crush it with clean water. The ratio should be 1:3 parts of water. When it’s completely soaked and left to dry, measure the fully expanded coco peat without any strains, The number of liters of coco peat as gain expansion volume is the sample. To get an idea 1Kg of coco peat should be expanded to weight up to 9 liters.

Sand Testing

The last and final test is the Sand test. 1kg of coco peat should be soaked for 15 minutes. Coco peat will float, and sandy and husky particles will settle below. The sand content is expressed as WS x 1000 x %. The sand is dried and weighed to check the impurities.

We have rounded five common tests to check the quality of coco peat. While using these industry methods of testing, you can get an idea of the coco peat you are using for your needs.

Read More:

• Coco Coir for Mushroom Cultivation

Looking for coconut charcoal Vs wood charcoal guide?

To obtain any type of charcoal, be it coconut charcoal or wood charcoal. The source materials go through a steam activation process to get the desired charcoal. The blog will differentiate between coconut charcoal and wood charcoal and will discuss how they are applicable to different applications. Other types of charcoal include Charcoal briquettes, activated charcoal, bamboo charcoal, and biochanin, which we will be discussing some other time.

The blog will help you decide which charcoal best suits your needs and which would give you the maximum value

Coconut Charcoal

• Coconut charcoal, as the name suggests, is obtained from a coconut shell. The coconut shells are passed through a steam activation process known as pyrolysis, which gives coconut charcoal as a final product. It should be noted the process of producing coconut charcoal is carried out at a low oxygen level, which results in coconut charcoal that has a high content of carbon and is considered an eco-friendly charcoal option.

• Now, if we talk about why coconut charcoal is labeled as a sustainable and eco-friendly option, the reason is coconut charcoal is obtained from the by-product of coconut. The coconut shells, which were once considered waste, are now a source of coconut charcoal, this not only helps in reducing waste from the coconut industry but is also proven a great alternative to traditional charcoal.

• If we have a look at the physical appearance of coconut charcoal, it is harder and cannot be crushed or cracked easily as compared to wood charcoal. It tends to have a larger surface area, more contents of carbon, and great absorption properties.

• The most useful application of coconut charcoal is for water filtration, as discussed earlier, coconut charcoal is good at absorbing impurities from the water. Apart from water filtration, it is also used for purifying air and absorbing dirt and pollutants from the air.

• Interestingly, coconut charcoal has certain health benefits as well. It can be used as a great body detoxifier to protect the human body from any potential toxins.

• Coconut charcoal has a number of uses and applications. The most common are water purification, detoxification and health, Skincare and beauty, and oral care. It is also used as a fuel source and used in barbecue coal and hookah coal. Other uses include Air Purification, Deodorization, Pavement filler, and environmental sustainability.

• Top exporters of coconut charcoal are Indonesia, Vietnam, and India.

• Coconut charcoal can be expensive and time-consuming to ignite. On the other hand, it can cause respiratory problems and constipation, and needs can be hazardous.

Wood Charcoal

• Wood charcoal is making its position in the charcoal industry, and what makes it unique and applicable is its great absorption properties, non-toxic nature, and greater surface area, allowing it to be used in several applications.

• It is clear enough that wood charcoal is extracted from a certain wood type and sawdust. Talking about the physical properties, in comparison to coconut charcoal. Wood charcoal is less dense and can easily be cracked or crushed.

• It is lightweight and has a porous structure, making it a good absorbent. However, the large surface area of wood charcoal makes its contamination easy. Therefore, it should be stored carefully to prevent exposure to dust and soil.

• The most common application of wood charcoal is in cooking and grilling. It gives a good taste to the food and can be considered a great replacement for traditional charcoal for grilling and cooking purposes.

• Wood charcoal is brought into use for the production of metals as a reducing agent. Hence, it is considered a useful element in the metallurgical industry.

• Just like coconut charcoal, wood charcoal can also be used for water filtration and purifying because of its absorption capabilities.

• Apart from these applications, wood charcoal has immense usage in the food and pharmaceutical industry.

• The top exporters of wood charcoal are Indonesia, China, Poland, the Philippines, and Ukraine.

• The downside of using wood charcoal is environmental concerns like deforestation and greenhouse gases. It can also pose a potential health risk, which includes respiratory problems and carbon monoxide poisoning.

We hope that a detailed explanation will help you decide the best available charcoal. Both types of charcoal have their advantages and have different uses. In a nutshell, coconut charcoal can be preferred more as it is eco-friendly and extracted from the coconut shell leftovers, making it a sustainable product.

Looking for coconut charcoal vs activated charcoal guide?

Charcoal is produced by a process called pyrolysis in which you heat any of the organic materials like wood, bamboo, peat, or coconut shells without the supply of oxygen. 

Coconut Charcoal

Coconut charcoal is a naturally made, 100% eco-friendly source that is made from the shells of coconut. It is also a type of biomass charcoal. Coconut charcoals have a higher absorption capacity and are more absorbent than charcoal of other materials. Coconut charcoal is 100% eco-friendly as the process of making it involves using the waste of the coconut. As compared to other charcoal sources, it does not involve the process of mining or deforesting, which has a higher impact on the environment.

The Benefits and Uses of Coconut Charcoal

• Coconut charcoal is 100% eco-friendly and made from renewable sources, due to which it is used for grilling and smoking activities and outdoor activities like heating where wood is not available or cannot be used.

• Compared to regular charcoal, coconut charcoal is considered to be more long-lasting. They produce less ash, burn hotter, and are more expensive than common wood charcoal. This is the reason it is highly preferred for grilling, providing more long-lasting, even heat with consistency.

• As coconut charcoal is high in carbon content, it is very efficient in absorbing impurities. This is the reason they are used in filtration to clean and remove contamination from the environment. This quality is the reason it is used in filtration systems to eliminate impurities, chlorine, and odors.

• Coconut charcoal is a byproduct of coconut waste, so it’s 100% biodegradable and a sustainable alternative for all outdoor fun activities.

• Compared to ordinary charcoal, coconut charcoal is nontoxic. There are very few harmful fumes that are released when it’s burning, so it makes it ideal for cooking with less emissions.

 Activated charcoal

Activated charcoal is regular coconut charcoal that is boosted and supercharged. It goes through the same process but is heated at very high temperatures, so it can be extra porous and can have more chemicals, toxins, and impurities. Activated coconut charcoal has the most absorption capacity and tendency if compared with other wood or bamboo charcoal because of the shape of the shells.

The Benefits and Uses of Activated Coconut Charcoal

• Activated charcoal is very highly absorbent due to its high surface area and high porosity. This is the main reason it is preferred to be used in air purification and water filters. In the air, it removes pollutants and smoke, whereas in water, it removes chemicals and other odors.

• Activated charcoal is also used for detoxification because the charcoal holds the toxins and helps remove them from the body. Activated charcoal is often found in detox supplements and capsules taken orally for clearing toxins from the body. Other skincare products like masks use activated charcoal to remove impurities.

• Activated charcoal can absorb the excess gas. This is the reason it is commonly used in supplements to reduce digestive discomfort, bloating, and indigestion by absorbing the substances that produce gas in the intestine.

• Activated charcoal is also effectively used for poisoning. Activated charcoal absorbs the toxic substances and prevents them from being absorbed into the stomach. It is commonly used in medical treatments to prevent the poison from being spread in the blood stream.

• As activated charcoal is nontoxic, it can be easily used in medical and cosmetic products. This is the reason you can also find activated charcoal in toothpaste and oral products for teeth whitening and in other skin care products like masks, scrubs, and cleansers that remove the bacteria, dirt, and oil from the skin.

As we have briefly learned about the benefits and uses of coconut charcoal and activated charcoal, we will now identify the key differences.

Depending on your needs and uses, you can evaluate the benefits and uses of both coconut charcoal and activated charcoal, and you can choose the best suitable alternative for your needs. As both products are 100 % eco-friendly, you can feel free to choose any of these.

Wants to know which plants grow in coco peat?

Coco Peat is also often referred as coconut coir. Coco peat is an emerging growing medium which is made from coconut fibers, and is gaining popularity worldwide. It made from the outer shell of the coconut husk. The process includes curing and removing the fiber which is then dried out.

Coco peat or coco coir are often available in different shapes and sizes and are molded into coir bricks, discs or pots. They are also reusable in nature.  It’s the reason coir is commonly used in gardening and horticulture due to which it has almost replaced traditional soil.

There are numerous reasons for its popularity worldwide. It is the most sustainable material in the market which is 100% organic and sustainable. Coco peat are ready to use just after a little hydration. Other advantages coir has is being light weight, being resistant to weeds and pest, anti-fungal and highly aeration in nature.

A fully hydrated half Kilogram compressed coco block can fill 8-9 pots or half a yard of garden.

Plants which can be grown with Coco Peat

1. Vegetables and Herbs

Coco peat provides an ideal environment in which plants likes herbs and vegetables thrives. As coco peat provides nutrients and a improved draining system, Leafy greens like spinach, swiss chard, lettuce and Kale grow very well. Other plants like thyme, cilantro, basil, parsley also thrive as coco peat provides healthy root development and retains moisture.

2. Fruit Bearing Plants

Coco peat is excellent medium for cultivation and is considered as one of the best growing mediums from fruit bearing. Different small sized fruits like raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and citrus fruits thrive with coco peat. As coco peat ensures retention of moisture and ensures continuous hydration. The plants are well aerated and provide strong growth of roots and absorbing nutrients resulting in higher crop yield.

3. Cacti and Succulents

The excellent water drainage capabilities prevent the plants from waterlogging making sure that the plants root maintain their health. Due to these characteristics its common for people growing succulents and cacti with coco peat as it complements its `nature to withstand arid conditions.  Different varieties of Echeveria, aloe Vera, haworthia and multiple species of cacti grow very well with coco peat when planted in the right size of container or pot.

4. Indoor Plantation

As coco peat is light weight in nature and excellent water retention it is always preffered for indoor plantation. Use of coco peat creates minimum mess and is popular among home growers for plants like pothos and peace lilies. Coco peat provides an environment which is stable and prevent the plants from overheating or watering which is very important for indoor plantation. 

5. Flowering Plants

Coco peat is another alternate that is very common for growing various flowering plants which can be used both indoors and outdoors. Few plants that are commonly grown by users and preferred are daisies, marigold, orchids, gerberas and roses. The high retention capability of coco peat helps the roots of these flower grow ensuring vibrant blossoms and healthy growth.

Things to Know about Coco Peats

• Coco peat naturally lacks nutrients like potassium, phosphorous and nitrogen. Only small amounts of Salts are in it.
• With comparison to soil, it is very light in weight. It is not muddy in nature and easy to use
• Coco peat characteristics involved absorbing water quickly.
• It becomes soft after adding of water and is perfect medium for growing.
• Its 100% natural and organic.

The results which coco peat has shown for growing different types of plants are amazing. This is the reason why it is used for a variety of plants growing and preferred by enthusiast. Coco peat increase in crop yield providing excellent water retention capabilities and soil moist for extended periods.

The pH value of coco peat is neutral due to which it is compatible with most types of plant and simplifies nutrient solution management.

This is the beauty of using and experimenting with coco peats for your growing needs. Whether it is herbs, flowering plants, fruit bearing trees or vegetables coco peat provides a nourishing and conductive environment helping their growth. Its versatility makes it the preferred choice for sustainable growing unlocking the full potential.

Contact Earth Scape to buy coco peat.

Read More:

• Coco Coir for Mushroom Cultivation

Looking for Coir Vs Sisal guide?

Sisal and Coir both are nature friendly and sustainable material that has a variety of application. If you are looking to explore both the benefits of Coir and Sisal, you have just landed on the right page. There are little differences between the both of two which we will be explaining. This would help you make your next buying decision easy.

Sisal

Sisal composition is Agave Fibers. It is extracted from various types of agave species. Sisal is available in number of varieties differentiating in the tightness the weave has. Numerous designs are available in the market and the comfort is dependent on the design you choose. Sisal is available in natural colors ranging to solid colors and also a combination of multi-color mix.

Sisal traditionally was used to make twine and ropes due to is toughness and heard weaving. Now a days its commonly use in weaving of carpets. Sisal carpets are commonly used in high traffic areas such as stairs, landings and common areas. As sisal reacts well with colors, there is a huge range of attractive colors. The downside of sisal is that it doesn’t perform well in high moisture areas and is required to be protected with spill. Other uses include wall to wall floor covering. These sisal rugs and carpets are among the most popular natural fiber rugs due to its organic beauty, durability that easily blends with different design styles.

Coir

Coir on the other hand is extracted from the outer part of coconut husk which is extremely durable. Coir is used in a wide array of applications as compared to Sisal. Coir comes in different forms, and has applications in a variety of industries with the most leading option of hydroponics. With a rough and scratchy texture, it holds the color well. Coir that is woven is difficulty to weave and sturdy. Coir is not among the softest texture, but is highly durable. Its commonly used for carpets specially in areas where there is high traffic. It provides protection against slips and is not prone to bacteria. Its used for entrance halls and stairs commonly. 

Sisal and Coir are both relatively common in the matting industry. These are very easy to maintain and have hard, natural vegetable fibers. Coir and Sisal are not easily damaged with Sand and are also commonly used for flooring and walls. They are less vulnerable to abrasion.

If you are used for Coir mattings then there is a selection of coir yams which are tough, fibrous which are surrounded on the coconut.  There are often irregularities and characteristics in weaving of coir or sisal which may be apparent when exposed to sunlight. It may also resemble to shade of tones of unfinished woods. Maintenance of coir or sisal is not very high. Just a regular vacuum with a strong brush is enough for a day when caring for Sisal or Coir. As vacuum has a strong suction its pulls out all the dirt that underlay between the fibers. If the coir or sisal are frequently vacuumed, it helps in increasing the matting life.

We hope that this blog helps you make an appropriate decision for you need and judge whether coir or sisal is best for your needs.

Contact Earth Scape a coco peat manufacturers in Sri Lanka for more details.

Wants to know how to use coco coir for houseplants?

With the evolution of coco coir, gardeners are quite satisfied with how this growing medium has contributed to greener gardens and healthy plant growth. Coco coir is a perfect alternative to traditional peat moss and has extensive uses in agriculture, hydroponic systems, and indoor and outdoor plantations.

Coco coir can be brought into use for houseplants and ensures healthy root growth with its water-retention properties. This guide will share how you can use coco coir for houseplants. If you want to replace soil with coco coir for your houseplants, then don’t forget to read the blog till the end. The blog will also share methods to prepare coco coir and its applications for houseplants.

Understanding Coco Coir and its preparation:

Before knowing the applications of coco coir, let’s first understand where it comes from and how it is prepared to be used as a soil replacement. Coco coir is actually a by-product of coconuts and is often available in the market in the form of coco coir bricks.

In order to use coco coir for gardening, there are certain steps you need to follow. The first of which is hydrating these blocks, the process is simple all you need to do is soak the coconut coir bricks into a large container with lukewarm water to allow them to expand. The bricks are all allowed to be soaked until they take the appearance of soil.

One of the most important things that gardeners are often concerned about is the lack of nutrients in coco coir as compared to peat moss, which can be a drawback for plant growth. Therefore, to resolve this issue, nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium are added to coco coir while preparing to encourage optimal plant growth and support stronger roots.

Usage in Houseplants:

• For better growth of houseplants, it is preferable for the growing medium to have an open structure and allow air circulation. Coco coir, because of its aerobic and water retention properties, is suitable for use in houseplants. The significant property of coco coir that makes it more popular and useful is water retention, coco coir only absorbs a certain amount of water as required and drains the excess water. Because of this property, you need not to do excessive watering of the plant and this also prevents waterlogging.

• As discussed above, coco coir has low nutrient levels. Therefore, there are two ways you can boost the nutritional value of coco coir. The first method is mixing coco coir with other mediums so that it drains and nutrient content can be increased. The other method is by adding nutrient supplements to coco coir to ensure better plant growth.

• Another feature of coco coir that makes it more useful in gardening is that it has a neutral pH value. Because of this property, it can be a suitable growing medium for a wide range of plants, especially for moisture-loving plants, including ferns and peace lilies.

• Most people now are considering using coco coir for houseplants. One of the major reasons behind this is that coco coir is biodegradable. It can be recycled and can be used for many years without needing a replacement. It is low-maintenance and is a budget-friendly gardening solution for houseplants, be it indoor or outdoor plants.

• Coco coir is also a great option if you want to do rooftop farming at your home, this is because it is light weight and easy to use. It is sustainable and creates a perfect environment for the plant that promotes stronger and better root growth. Another significant feature of coco coir is its aeration ability, which is also useful for plant growth.

• Coco coir is often used as a soil amendment and mixed with soil to improve the overall air porosity of soils and support better root growth.

If you are still using traditional peat moss for your houseplants, it’s high time you switched to coco coir because it is renewable, sustainable, and low-maintenance. It is worth mentioning that once coco coir was only considered a waste. After discovering its benefits, it is making a significant position in the agriculture industry as it is considered perfect for animal bedding and a wide range of plants. Additionally, it offers an amazing covering layer for gardens.

Wants to know how to prepare coco peat for seed germination?

Coco peat is a naturally extracted substitute from the coconut husk. Coco peat has been growing in popularity lately and is used for soil amendment, potting mix, and hydroponic production. In recent times coco peat is now being considered as a permanent replacement of the traditional peat moss. Coco peat is ideal for beginners or seasoned gardeners as they are over-the-counter coco peat bags that provide the balance of right moisture promoting strong growth roots and faster process of germination.

Advantages of Using Coco Peat for Seed Germination

Stronger and more fibrous roots for seedlings

The high-water retention capacity and air-filled porosity help in producing the seedlings stronger.

High Germinate rate

Coco peat can be used multiple times in different growing seasons. The ability to re-wet it makes it easily useable in seedling trays and tubes. Germination rates are always higher when coco peat is used.

Easily Re-wets

Coco peat is the most preferred and ideal medium being used for seed-raising applications all around the world. It has the ability to easily re-wet, which makes it the preferred choice for cell and plug production of flower seeds, vegetables, and tube stock production.

Seed Germination is a process in which plants grow from seeds to seedlings. The process of seed germination improves both crop quality and yield. Some common conditions that are very important in seed germination are as below;

• Water: one of the most important elements in seed germination. Water provides the necessary hydration that is required for vital activities like protoplasm, dissolving oxygen, softening the seed coats, and increasing the seed permeability.
• Oxygen: Oxygen is another important essential energy source that is required for seed growth. When burying the seed is too low, it can be deprived of oxygen.
• Temperature: Temperature depends on the seed characteristics you are looking to grow. A moderate temperature from 25-30 degrees is ideal for a seed to generate. Some seeds can vary to as low as temperatures to 5 degrees and as high as 45 degrees depending on their nature and characteristics.
• Light or Darkness: Depending on nature, many seeds cannot germinate until light falls on them.

To use Coco peat for seed germination, below is a step by step guide which will help your way through out.

• The first and most essential part is choosing the right quality coco peat for Seed germination. There are a variety of coco peat available in the market for suitable gardening needs. Coco peat disc or coins are most preferred as they provide the optimal level of retention of moisture and air circulation.
• Start by filling the tray or container with Coco Peat. Use water to soak the coco peat for several hours before adding it to your system. This will hydrate it making it easier to using and work on it.
• Once the coco peat is well soaked, add the seeds to the medium, ensuring that the seeds are not touching each other and are evenly spaced
• Create a humid environment by covering the container or tray with a plastic wrap or a lid. Keep checking the seeds every day to see if they have germinated. Once you see the seed germination, remove the lid or the wrap and continue monitoring the coco peat that stays moist
• After the plants have grown big enough, you can transfer them into your hydroponics system.
• Monitoring the pH value of the coco peat is an essential part of the process as the ideal range is between 5 to 7. It is required to adjust the pH value if needed.

FAQS

Q: Can Cocopeat be used for all types of Seeds?

A:Cocopeat is generally used for most types of seeds, but it is recommended to check if there are any specific requirements for the seed you are planting.

Q:How often you should water your seeds in Coco peat?

A:As compared to using traditional soil, coco peat has the capacity to retain water and hold moisture.  It’s important to make sure that the coco peat remains moist throughout but is not water-logged. 

Q:Can Cocopeat be used in the next growing season?

A:Yes, coco peat can be used multiple times. Coco peat can simply be used next time by removing the plant debris and mixing it in the soil container for use next time. 

Q:Are there any advantages of using coco peat over traditional soil?

A:The benefits of using coco peat over traditional soil are huge. Coco peat provides better and improved aeration, has enhanced moisture retention, and has strong resistance to bacterial and fungal infections.