Coco Peat As Amendment In Peat Moss Soil? Questions On Article By Bonnie Grant

Question

Hello, Read the article “Using Coco Peat for Plants” and at the end it mentions “use 40% make up” of coco peat. I just wanted to get more info about that, is it possible to do mostly soil and like 5-15, 5-20% coco coir in an otherwise peat moss based soil (BioBizz light and Happy Frog if you’re curious)? If not, why not? What are some things to keep in mind if I’m amending organic soil with coco? I see many articles comparing peat and coco but none that suggest to mix like this, and I had this idea myself. Please let me know about this, thank you.

Answer 1

Coco is a replacement for peat. Adding either of the two will make an, already, low fertility soil even less nutrient rich. Both of these materials are used as fillers to add aeration and water absorbance, but peat will acidify the soil to a degree.

I wouldn't add any to the soil, as it is not necessary, but if you do, I would say to add compost, as well. This will compensate for the reduction in nutrients.

This article will help explain about some soil amendments:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/the-importance-of-soil-for-an-organic-garden.htm