What is Green Planet Coco + Perlite?
Green Planet Coco + Perlite is a 70% buffered coco coir and 30% perlite growing medium designed for strong root development. The coco holds moisture evenly, while perlite increases airflow and drainage. It’s a soilless substrate that behaves more like hydroponics than traditional soil.
What does “washed and buffered” mean, and do I need to rinse it again?
Washed means excess salts and dust have been removed. Buffered means the coco has been treated (typically with calcium and magnesium) so it doesn’t rob nutrients from your feed. It’s ready to use straight from the bag. A light pre-wet is helpful, but re-buffering is usually not required.
Does coco + perlite contain nutrients?
No—this is a root-zone medium, not fertiliser. You’ll need to provide nutrients from early growth onward. Even seedlings benefit from a mild nutrient solution once established. Consistent feeding is key when growing in coco.
What nutrients should I use with coco perlite?
A coco-specific nutrient line is the simplest option because it accounts for coco’s calcium and magnesium behaviour. Many growers also supplement with Cal-Mag depending on their water source. Mineral nutrients tend to perform more predictably than heavy organic inputs in coco systems.
How often should I water plants in coco + perlite?
Coco prefers consistent moisture rather than wet/dry cycles like soil. Once plants are established, many growers water daily or even more frequently in small pots or warm conditions. Avoid letting the medium dry out completely, as this can cause nutrient concentration swings.
What pH and EC should I run in coco?
Coco typically performs best in the mid-5 to low-6 pH range. EC depends on plant size and stage—start low for seedlings and increase gradually. Consistency matters more than chasing aggressive numbers, and monitoring runoff helps prevent salt build-up.
Do I need runoff when feeding coco?
Yes—aiming for a small amount of runoff helps prevent salt accumulation in the root zone. You don’t need excessive drainage, but consistent runoff reduces the risk of nutrient toxicity and keeps EC more stable over time.
Can I use tap water or RO water with coco?
Tap water usually works, but very hard water can affect nutrient balance and pH. RO water works well too, though it typically requires adding Cal-Mag because it contains almost no minerals. Always adjust nutrients and pH based on your water source.
Is Green Planet Coco + Perlite suitable for hydroponic systems?
Yes. It works well for hand-watered container grows and automated systems like drip irrigation or bottom-fed setups. Just ensure nutrients stay clean and well mixed if using irrigation lines, and avoid letting the medium become waterlogged.
What plants grow well in coco + perlite?
It’s excellent for container-grown vegetables, herbs, flowering plants, and many indoor plants that prefer high oxygen around their roots. Seedlings and rooted clones also perform well with gentle feeding and careful moisture control.
What pot size and type work best with coco?
Larger pots buffer moisture and nutrient swings better, while smaller pots require more frequent feeding. Fabric pots increase airflow and dry faster; plastic pots retain moisture longer. Always use containers with proper drainage holes.
Can I mix coco + perlite with soil or compost?
You can, but it changes how the medium behaves. Adding compost or soil increases water retention and microbial activity, which may require different feeding and watering strategies. Most growers choose either a true coco approach or a soil-based system rather than blending heavily.
Can fungus gnats or white mould appear in coco?
They can if the surface stays constantly wet and airflow is poor. Let the top layer dry slightly between feeds, improve ventilation, and avoid standing water. A small amount of white surface fungus is usually harmless but signals excess moisture.
Can I reuse coco + perlite after harvest?
Yes, if it’s properly refreshed. Remove roots, flush out accumulated salts, and re-buffer with a calcium/magnesium solution before replanting. Over multiple cycles, coco breaks down into finer particles, so replace it once drainage and aeration decline.
What’s the biggest mistake growers make with coco?
Treating it like soil. Coco requires consistent feeding, controlled pH, regular runoff, and steady moisture. When managed properly, it delivers fast growth and strong yields—but it rewards precision rather than guesswork.
