Have you ever heard of coconuts? If not, it will be high time! This sustainable alternative to conventional potting soil has become increasingly popular in recent years - and for good reason. It is light, stores water like a sponge and does not contain any environmentally harmful peat. But is it really suitable for all plants? And are there also disadvantages? I tell you everything you need to know about coconuts - and for which plants you are best suited! Get ready to transform your garden!
What is coconut soil?
Quite simply said: coconut earth consists of the fibers of the coconut shell. If you think: "Oh, so earth from crushed coconuts?", I have to disappoint them. It is the fine fibers between the hard shell and the flesh of the coconut - a by -product of the coconut industry. These fibers are dried, crushed and pressed into practical bricks. When you soak the bricks in water, they swell and become a loose, peat -free earth with great properties for your plants.
The advantages of coconuts
There are many good reasons why coconuts can be an excellent choice for your plants. Some of them are:
- Tierffrei and environmentally friendly:Coconuts is a sustainable choice because it does not contain any peat. Peat is broken down from bogs, and these moor are huge CO₂ memory. Every time peat is removed, gigantic quantities escape CO₂ into the atmosphere. Coconuts, on the other hand, are obtained from a waste product - a more environmentally friendly choice!
- Save water like a sponge:Thanks to its structure, coconut earth saves water very well. This means that you have to water your plants less often - perfect for hot summer months!
- Light and handy:Compared to conventional potting soil, coconut earth is easy and easy to use. This is how the repotting becomes child's play!
- Lower mold risk:The loose structure of the coconut earth promotes air circulation, which means that the risk ofMoldis reduced.
- Fewer pests:Coconuts attract fewer pests so that their plants can grow in a healthier environment.
These plants love coconuts
Now that we have discussed the advantages of the coconut, the big question comes: Which plants love coconuts - and which not?
1. Himpan plants
Houseplants benefit particularly from coconuts because it does not stay too wet or too dry. These plants grow particularly well in it:
- Palms (e.g. Areca, Kentia, Yucca, gold fruit palm) - love the relaxed structure.
- Ferns (e.g. sword fern, nest fern) - like moist, well -ventilated earth.
- Monstera, Philodendron & Efeutute - thrive in coconuts.
- Bonsai & citrus plants - but need mineral additives for better nutrient supply.
- Some types of bamboo - especially tropical bamboo species benefit from the loose, well -ventilated structure of the coconut.
- Rosen- In combination with compost or garden soil, coconut soil ensures better moisture storage and a loose soil structure that loves roses.
My tip:Mix a little pearlite or bloated tone to make the substrate even airier!
2. Vegetables and herbs
Kokoserde is also a great choice for the cultivation of vegetables and herbs. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and zucchini in particular thrive in it.
- Tomatoes & peppers - need a loose earth that stores moisture but does not cause waterlogging.
- Herbs such as basil, mint, chives, parsley & dill - grow particularly well in coconut.
- Strawberry & raspberries - roots love the loose structure.
A notice:Coconuts naturally contain no nutrients. Remember to fertilize regularly to promote the growth of your plants!
3. cultivation & cuttings
If you want to sow seeds or pull the cuttings, coconut earth is ideal because it is germ -free and stores the right amount of moisture.
- Perfect for salad, herbs, tomatoes and flowers
- Excellent for rooting stains (e.g. Monstera, ivy, roses)
- Why use?The fine structure promotes root growth and keeps the earth moist without mold forming.
Which plants don't like coconut soil?
There are also some plants that do not thrive in coconut so well. Here are the most important:
- Plants with a high nutrient requirement:If you have ornamental plants such as fuchsias or begonia, you should know that you need a nutrient -rich earth. Coconuts are naturally low in nutrients, so that these plants may not grow optimally.
- Acid -loving plants:Blueberries and other berries want a sour soil to thrive well. A special mixture is required for these plants that is tailored to your needs, because coconut soil does not meet these requirements.
- Root vegetables:Carrots and beets are real earth lovers. You need a denser, heavier soil that gives you stability. Coconuts could be too loose, which can hinder the growth of its roots.
- Orchids (without a special mix):Although coco chips sometimes in special mixtures forOrchidsare used, these plants need a special earth with bark or other materials. This ensures the right air circulation and moisture.
- Succulents and cacti:These plants need high water permeability to rip off excess water quickly. Coconuts can be too moist and is therefore not ideal for these plants.
How to use coconut soil correctly
To get the best out of coconut soil, you should note a few steps:
- Let the coconut bricks swell:Put warm water over the coconut brick and leave it for about 10 minutes.
- Stir and loosen:After the sources, you can loosen the earth with your hands or fork.
- Add nutrients:Mix long -term fertilizers or compost underground to give your plants the necessary nutrients.
- If necessary, mix with normal earth:For some plants, a combination of coconut soil and conventional potting soil can be useful to create the perfect balance of moisture and nutrients.
Are there any disadvantages?
As advantageous as coconut soil is, there are also some disadvantages that you should take into account:
- Hardly any nutrients:The growth of the plants can be restricted without additional fertilization.
- Transport routes:Coconuts are often imported from Asia. Therefore, pay attention to sustainable products.
- Not suitable for all plants:Plants that prefer dry soil in particular are not in good hands in pure coconut.
