Coconut Fiber Medium

Coconut fiber is starting to become one of the most popular growing mediums around the world. It could end up becoming the most popular growing medium in the near future. This is because it is really the first natural and organic growing medium that offers peak performance in hydroponic systems. Coconut fiber is basically just a waste product left over from the coconut industry. It’s the husks of the actual coconut.

Advantages:

1. Bigger oxygen capacity than rockwool, which itself has a high oxygen capacity.
2. Better moisture retention capabilities than rockwool. Hydroponic systemsthat have intermittent watering cycles are good systems for coconut fiber.
3. It easily mixes with other mediums including clay pellets or gravel

Disadvantages:

1. Low grade coconut fiber can have a high salt concentration
2. Some preparations are too finally shredded and can clog your system
3. Can’t be reused. The fibers do breakdown over time so they’re at risk ofpump or drainage issues.

Low grade fiber with high salt content will make growing difficult and greatly change the pH levels of the nutrient solution. Additionally, if the coconut is ‘over shredded’ then it will loose some of its advantages and just be plain dusty! It wise to only purchase coconut fiber labeled specifically for hydroponics.