burgertime2010
Well-Known Member
Hello, I started this thread because I wanted to streamline the process for newbies to Coco by starting with some facts that will help. So, Coco in the bag is typically 6.1ph and depending on the quality and brand has been pre-rinsed, buffered and ready to go. Breaking the buffer is the first thing on your list assuming the coco hasn't been conditioned. Our objective is to rinse the coco with large amounts of water containing Cal-mag @120ppm and 200ppm of Veg solution at a ph of 5.8. This breaks the medium of its tendency to drift towards 6.1PH. So, once 5.8 is reached the runoff will indicate so. Breaking this buffer is an extremely important concept to coco growers to understand in order optimize the process at the very beginning. Periodically, this same technique is used to flush the excess fertilizer(salts) that build up and refresh the buffer to 5.8. PH but more on that later. Next, Coco has the tendency to hold on to Calcium and Magnesium making supplementing more necessary and is one of the few issues with this medium. I usually mix 30% Perlite into my coco to aerate as well as help offset these types of issues. When watering coco, a runoff of 20% is recommended so buildup does not occur...do not top off as a habit. The frequency of watering coco varies upon container size, environmental factors, plant size, and preference. In the early grow, when roots are still small 2x week is standard but periods between feedings can run up to 5-6 days. Late in blooming, when the roots are working to keep large plants up, everyday feedings are not uncommon and over-watering is no longer an issue. Never let the coco dry through!! Use an inoculant, Liquid Kelp as well as Mycorhizzae strengthen your plant in it's infancy against disease and promote root growth making for bigger, faster growing, and more vibrant vegetative plants. The coco has a natural insulation that keeps it from temperature being a real issue. Pest control is a wise investment as a preventative measure. Neem oil, and/or Systemic pesticides are commonly used against pests that thrive in the cocosphere. Keep it CLEAN!! no dead leaves, no gnats, no tolerance!!! In short, Decay brings insects, insects bring diseases and damage plant vigor. Your nutrient selection is a personal decision, I know it is difficult to chose, but with so many to choose from I cannot say what the one to use is publicly. Feel free to message me though. I will continue to add important information, as need becomes evident and feel free to ask questions as well. As for the Coco-pros, please add anything that you find important, fresh, or interesting.