Coir pith, commonly known as coco peat, is a natural by product derived from coconut husks. It is widely used in gardening and agriculture due to its excellent water retention, aeration, and soil conditioning properties. Here’s a detailed description of coco peat:
Composition and Properties
Organic Material: Coco peat is composed of the fibrous material found between the hard, internal shell and the outer coat of a coconut.
Water Retention: It has the ability to retain water up to eight times its weight, making it an excellent medium for maintaining soil moisture.
Aeration: The fibrous texture allows for good aeration, promoting healthy root growth and preventing soil compaction.
pH Neutral: Coco peat has a neutral pH level (5.5 to 6.5), making it suitable for a wide range of plants.
Nutrient Content: While coco peat itself is low in nutrients, it can be enriched with fertilizers and nutrients to support plant growth.