Franka Kruse-Gering

February 21, 2023, 10:16 am | Read time: 4 minutes

For a few years now, coconut coir pellets have been experiencing quite a hype. You can even buy them at discount stores. But what exactly are coconut coir pellets, and how do they work? myHOMEBOOK investigated and consulted two experts.

What are coconut coir pellets?

Coconut coir pellets, also known as coir tabs, are compressed coconut fibers wrapped in a biodegradable layer of cellulose fibers. This provides stability so the pellets don’t fall apart. “They replace the earlier peat pellets, which are no longer used to protect peatlands,” reveals Isabelle Van Groeningen from the Royal Garden Academy.

Also interesting: What is a soil block maker and how does it work?

How do you use coconut coir pellets?

Using coconut coir pellets is quite simple, which makes them so popular. “After properly watering them, they absorb the water and expand. Then you can plant seeds, which ideally will start to germinate,” explains Sandra von Rekowski from the Federal Association of German Gardeners. However, you should be careful not to damage the membrane surrounding the compressed plant fibers.

Which plants are suitable for coconut coir pellets?

In general, the coir pellets are suitable for all plants grown from seeds. “They are ideal for growing vegetables and flowers with small seeds. If the plants need warmth, you can place the coconut coir pellets in a greenhouse or on a windowsill. Plants with larger seeds, like peas or zucchini, are better sown in individual pots,” says Van Groeningen.

Related: Starting plant seedlings–the most important tips

What is the difference from regular potting soil?

“Regular potting soil mainly consists of compost, bark fibers, or wood fibers and other ingredients depending on the substrate type. Always make sure to use potting soil without peat–for the sake of our environment. However, regular potting soil is not suitable for growing young plants because it is too nutrient-rich. It’s better to use seed-starting soil or make your own mix,” reveals von Rekowski.

More on this: Why you shouldn’t buy potting soil with peat

More on the topic

Tomatoes, Eggplants, and More Which Plants to Start Indoors in March

Garden and Balcony How to Water Strawberries for Maximum Yield – Gardener Offers Tips

Advantages and disadvantages of coconut coir pellets

myHOMEBOOK consulted the two gardening experts Isabelle Van Groeningen and Sandra von Rekowski and compiled the following advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

1. The coir pellets provide a stable nursery for the germination period.
2. Due to their shape, it’s easy to transplant the young plants. You can simply place them in their new location without crumbling and making a mess.
3. The pellets have a low nutrient content. This is good because too many nutrients could harm the young roots. 

https://oembed/myhomebook/affiliate/b542f2684b58cb2d89015656af992566905829f0a57468955b41641e787ded6f/8e6e2b30-0677-421d-83d2-e1e4481878f8/embed

Disadvantages:

1. Since coconut palms don’t grow in Germany, the raw material has to travel a long way to reach us.
2. Although coconut coir pellets quickly absorb water, they lose it just as quickly and tend to dry out. To prevent the young plants from drying out, you need to monitor watering closely.
3. If the coir pellet remains constantly moist, mold can quickly develop.

Where can you buy coconut coir pellets?

Coconut coir pellets have become so popular that you can buy them almost anywhere. You can find them at garden centers as well as discount stores.

Note: If you prefer to use seed-starting soil instead of coconut coir pellets, make sure it doesn’t contain peat–for the sake of the environment.