Experienced hobby gardeners know: where there is light, there is also shadow. This gardening wisdom includes coconut soil. In addition to a wide range of convincing advantages, important disadvantages must not be ignored. This guide calls out the dark side of coconut hum.
What are the disadvantages of coconut soil?
The disadvantages of coconut soil include higher purchase price, uncertain mold resistance and time-consuming preparation. There is also a lack of nutrients, which is why fertilizing during the swelling process is recommended. Nevertheless, coconut soil also offers many advantages, especially for potting soil.
Higher purchase price
Amateur gardeners agree on the most important disadvantage of coconut soil. The valuable natural substrate costs significantly higher than conventional plant soil. The following table provides a representative insight into the cost structure:
- 650 grams of humus bricks (makes 8 liters of coconut soil): from 3.49 euros/piece
- 5 kg humus bricks (makes 70 liters of coconut soil): from 13.99 euros/piece
- 50 pieces of coconut swelling tablets (ideal for sowing): from 9.95 euros
In comparison, 50 liters of conventional potting soil in the hardware store costs from 2.95 euros. However, it is a peat-containing product that has long been frowned upon in many private gardens. For potting and growing soil without peat, specialist retailers charge from 4.50 euros per 10 liter bag.
Uncertain mold resistance
Under the influence of warm, humid conditions, the much-praised mold resistance of coconut soil hangs by a thread. As long as there are humus bricks in their packaging, fungal spores have no chance. Unpacked and processed in warm water, coconut fibers are exposed to flying pathogens.
A combination of high humidity and excessive watering causes coconut soil to mold. Repot affected plants into fresh coconut humus as soon as possible. To ensure that the disadvantage does not strike again, please carefully examine the site conditions and maintenance program.
Time-consuming preparation
Hobby gardeners with limited time for plant care complain about a characteristic disadvantage of coconut soil. The substrate is pressed into space-saving briquettes. Only after a swelling process in warm water is coconut fiber substrate available for use. This process can take up to 60 minutes. If you occasionally rub the swelling mass with your hands, this will accelerate the process.
Manufacturers of coconut soil have responded to the disadvantage and expanded their product range. Loose coconut soil is available to purchase from well-stocked specialist retailers and is ready to use straight away. So much luxury has its price. A 50 liter bag costs between 22 and 25 euros; a multiple of conventional growing and potting soil.
Tip
There are no nutrients contained in humus bricks. What appears to be a disadvantage is actually an important advantage of coconut fiber substrate. So that seeds and cuttings thrive and grow roots, the potting soil should be as lean as possible. To use the benefits of coconut soil as a potting soil or potting soil, simply fertilize a humus brick with mineral liquid fertilizer as part of the swelling process.
