Across modern commercial greenhouses, cocopeat bricks (coco coir pith) have become the premier renewable hydroponic growing medium. Holding up to 8 to 9 times its weight in water while providing superior root aeration, cocopeat is ideal for tomatoes, strawberries, and cucumbers.
Understanding Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) in Cocopeat
Fresh coconut husks naturally accumulate Sodium (Na+) and Potassium (K+) ions. Without proper washing and buffering, cocopeat will absorb Calcium (Ca2+) and Magnesium (Mg2+) from your hydroponic nutrient feed, causing severe plant deficiencies.
Cocopeat Grades: Washed Low-EC vs Unwashed
| Specification | Washed Low-EC Export Grade | Unwashed High-EC Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Conductivity (EC 1:1.5) | < 0.5 mS/cm | > 1.0 – 2.5 mS/cm |
| pH Range | 5.5 – 6.5 | 5.2 – 6.8 |
| Expansion Volume | 14 – 16 Liters / kg (~75L per 5kg block) | 12 – 14 Liters / kg |
| Moisture Level | < 15% | < 18% |
Step-by-Step Buffering Protocol
- Hydration: Add 18–20 liters of water per 5kg block until fully expanded.
- Calcium Nitrate Solution: Dissolve 5–7g of Calcium Nitrate per liter of water.
- Soaking: Submerge cocopeat in the solution for 12 to 24 hours to displace sodium and potassium.
- Final Rinse: Flush with clean water until runoff EC drops below 0.6 mS/cm.
Explore our export-grade growing media on our Products Page or contact marketing@cocovariety.com.