Coco coir is a 100% natural and eco-friendly growing medium that is extracted from coconut husks. This is an excellent soil alternative extensively used for growing strawberries. Coir substrate is fully sustainable, biodegradable, and has a neutral pH level that boosts strawberry growth. Moreover, this is a versatile soilless natural growing medium that gives a good aeration & water retention for plant growth. In this article, we are going to discuss why growing strawberries in coco coir is a great choice for gardeners.

No pathogen

One of the biggest disadvantages of using soil for growing strawberries is the soil pathogen problem. As compared to traditional soil, coco coir substrate is never infested with any kind of pathogen or harmful fungi. Basically, coco coir is formulated with Trichoderma. According to the research, Trichoderma fungi help to minimize anthracnose disease. Apart from that, these fungi promote plant growth & prevent the growth of harmful pathogens. It mainly works as an alternative to conventional chemicals that are used for strawberry growth.

Helps beneficial bacteria: 

Coco coir substrate is highly enriched with lignin (46%). This is a type of complex organic compound that makes a structural material to support plant tissues. Lignin polymer is essential for cell wall formation and it helps beneficial bacteria development for plant growth. This is progressively extracted by treating the fibers with an organic solvent and an alkaline solution.

High water retention rate 

As compared to traditional soil, coco coir has a high water retention rate. Due to this reason, growing strawberries in coco coir substrate needs very less watering. A high water retention rate helps busy gardeners. Since coco coir slowly breaks down, it makes air gaps that allow moisture to pass away from the roots. On the other hand, to stop rapid drainage, the coco coir keeps some amount of moisture. As a result, it never dries out completely. These dual properties (retention & drainage) help to reduce the water logging problem and allow strawberries to have the best possible growth.

Better aeration

Another major benefit of using coco coir for strawberries is higher aeration than traditional soil. 

According to professionals, strawberries need a good amount of oxygen in the root zones. Aeration is essential for any soilless growing medium. This property promotes plant growth with water, air, and other essential nutrients. It also keeps the plant root healthy. 

Neutral pH level 

Strawberry plants need an ideal pH level. Generally, the soil level has a huge impact on essential nutrients. As compared to other mediums, the pH level in the coir substrate is optimum (6.7 to 7). This level is ideal for most garden vegetables and fruits like strawberries. Slightly alkaline conditions are good for strawberry growth. If you use coco coir instead of traditional soil, you do not have to buy any kind of pH amendment for plant growth.

Final words

Growing strawberries in coco coir give too many benefits to the gardeners. Coco coir is the perfect choice for hydroponic gardeners and growers who want to add 100% biodegradable material to the garden. There are several growing mediums available in the market but coir is the best substitute because of its number of advantages and environmental benefits.  

Coco coir is mainly available in 3 forms including discs, bricks, and biodegradable pots in the market. However, the overall quality of coco coir always depends on the manufacturing processes & raw materials. So, it’s essential to buy these products from reputable ones like Riococo Worldwide. They offer premium quality coco coir products across the world at the lowest price. From hydroponics, vertical farms, and rooftop gardening to urban gardening, and farming industries, Riococo’s products give you the ultimate result all time.