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Coconut Coir

Writer's picture: Cheri KoschirCheri Koschir

Why I Switched to Coconut Coir: The Ultimate Gardening Game-Changer


As an avid organic gardener and worm composting enthusiast, I’ve been using coconut coir for years, and I have to say — it’s a game-changer. Whether I’m starting seeds, use as bedding for my red wigglers, or improving my soil, coconut coir has proven to be a versatile powerhouse that outshines peat in every way. Let me share why coconut coir has been my go-to gardening solution for so long.


What Is Coconut Coir?


If you’re new to coconut coir, let me give you a quick rundown. Coconut coir is a natural fiber extracted from the outer husk of coconuts. It’s a byproduct of the coconut industry, meaning it’s an incredibly sustainable material. Typically sold in compressed bricks or loose form, coconut coir expands when soaked in water, creating a fluffy, soil-like medium perfect for a variety of gardening uses.


Why Coconut Coir Beats Peat


1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable


One of the biggest reasons I started using coconut coir is its environmental benefits. Peat, primarily harvested from peat bogs, is a non-renewable resource. Extracting peat releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and destroys fragile ecosystems that take centuries to regenerate.


Coconut coir, on the other hand, is a byproduct of coconut production. By using it, we’re repurposing waste that would otherwise go unused. Choosing coconut coir over peat is a simple way to reduce your environmental impact while still giving your garden the love it deserves.


2. Better Water Retention and Aeration


One thing I’ve always appreciated about coconut coir is how well it retains moisture while still providing excellent aeration for plant roots. When I start seeds, I never worry about them drying out too quickly or becoming waterlogged. Coconut coir strikes the perfect balance, creating an ideal environment for germination.


3. Perfect for Worm Composting


As someone who’s been using coconut coir as worm bedding for years, I can’t say enough good things about it. It’s an excellent bedding material because it holds moisture without getting soggy, providing the perfect habitat for worms. It’s also pH-neutral, so I don’t have to worry about it being too acidic or alkaline for my wiggly workers.


4. Improves Soil Structure


Coconut coir has been my go-to soil amendment for years, and it’s easy to see why. When mixed into garden soil, it improves drainage, aeration, and water retention. It’s also free of harmful chemicals and pests, unlike some other organic amendments. My garden soil has never been so easy to work with, and my plants are thriving as a result.



How to Use Coconut Coir


Using coconut coir is incredibly simple. It often comes in compressed bricks, like this one

I found for my readers on Amazon. Unfortunately my own supplier's facility had a tragic fire and I am no longer able to supply it directly through my own store. I took the legwork out of doing the research and found one similar to what I used to have available at a reasonable price.


Here’s how I prepare it:

Use Coconut Coir as a Seed starter
Use Coconut Coir as a Seed starter

1. Place the brick in a large container. My favourite is 68 litre Rubbermaid Roughneck Storage tote easily found in most hardware or housewares stores.

2. Add warm water (about 4-5 times the volume of the brick).

3. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes.

4. Fluff it up with your hands, and it’s ready to go!


I’ve used it straight for seed starting, mixed it with compost for soil amendment, and added it to my worm bin as bedding. It’s so versatile and easy to use that I’m always finding new ways to incorporate it into my gardening routine.




Why Coconut Coir Is the Best Choice for Gardeners


After years of using coconut coir, I can confidently say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my garden. It’s eco-friendly, sustainable, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s better for the planet than peat and gives my plants everything they need to thrive. If you’re looking for a way to make your gardening more sustainable and effective, I highly recommend giving coconut coir a try.


Ready to make the switch? Check out this high-quality coconut coir and see the difference it makes in your gardening journey. Your plants — and the planet — will thank you!

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