Learning Objectives:

• Address common challenges when using coir
• Learn best practices for resolving issues
• Understand how coir behaves differently from soil or peat

Common Questions & Clear Answers

Q1: Why is my coir drying out too fast?

A: Coir retains water well but if it’s over-dried during storage or placed in a high-sun or windy area, it can dry quickly. Try mulching over it, using larger containers, or mixing with compost to help retain moisture.

Q2: Why is my coir staying too wet?

A: Coir needs good drainage. Make sure pots have holes and that you’re not overwatering. If mixed with heavy compost, it can retain more water than needed.

Q3: Does coir contain nutrients?

A: Coir is mostly inert. It doesn’t provide much nutrition on its own, so always add fertiliser suited to your plant type.

Q4: Can I use coir on its own?

A: Yes — especially for seed starting. But for long-term growing, it’s best mixed with compost, worm castings, or natural fertilisers.

Q5: Why are my plants turning yellow in coir?

A: It could be a nutrient deficiency, usually nitrogen or iron. Ensure you are feeding your plants regularly. Coir doesn’t buffer nutrients like soil does.

Coir-Specific Challenges

pH Fluctuations

Coir is usually pH-neutral or slightly acidic, which is great for most plants. However, some batches (especially low-quality ones) can have salt build-up or inconsistent pH. Use buffered coir from trusted sources.

Salt Residue

Cheap or unwashed coir can contain sodium or potassium salts. Always look for washed or buffered coir — especially for sensitive plants.

Compaction Over Time

Coir may compact in pots over time. Fluff or remix with aerators like perlite or bark.

Activity: Coir Detective

Create a “troubleshooting log” for one plant growing in coir. Track:

• Watering frequency
• Fertiliser used
• Visible plant health changes
• Weather conditions

After 2 weeks, write down one change you made and whether it improved the plant’s health.

Reflect & Share

• What’s one mistake you’ve made with coir?
• How did you fix it?
• What’s something you now feel more confident about?

Summary

Like any growing medium, coir has a learning curve — but once you understand its properties, it becomes a highly flexible, sustainable base for growing. Whether you’re troubleshooting moisture or feeding issues, knowing what to expect makes your coir journey more rewarding.