Coconut Tree is called as " Kalpavriksha " because all parts of a coconut tree are very useful . It produces coconut which contains coconut water and a white flesh . Coconut husks contains fibers which is used to make doormats , brushes , ropes , scrubbers etc . The powdery substance found in the coconut husk is called as Coco Peat which is used in gardening . Coconut leaves are used to make roofs and fences in rural areas.
Now , We will discuss about Coco Peat.
What is Coco Peat?
The by-product formed when coconut fiber is extracted from the coconut husk is known as Coco Peat . It is also called as Coir pith or Coir dust . Coco Peat is used as a substitute for soil in Hydroponics.
Characteristics of Coco Peat
- Coco Peat is a lightweight , powdery substance which is bio degradable.
- It can be compressed to one fifth of its volume reducing storage and transportation costs.
- It is naturally resistant to bacteria and fungal growth due to its physical and chemical properties.
- Coco Peat is capable of storing and releasing nutrients for long periods of time.
- It has high water holding capacity and can hold water upto eight times of its volume.
- It is a good soil amendment which improves water retention , water infiltration , aeration and drainage.
- Coco Peat is used as a seed starter in many nurseries.
- Coco Peat is used as a mulch to prevent weeds and retain moisture.
How to make your own Coco Peat?
You can make your own Coco Peat at home if you have coconut husks . You can also buy Coco Peat from your nearby nurseries.
Steps to Follow :
- Collect coconut husks from the coconut.
- Pull out the coconut fibers and chop them into small pieces with the knife or scissors.
- Blend the chopped pieces using a blender to a powdery form.
- Now , manually remove the fibers from the powder.
- Wash the resultant coco peat with water to remove excess salts.
- Place the coco peat in water for 2 to 3 hours.
- Dry it in sunlight for a day.
- Now , your Coco Peat is ready to use in you garden.
0 Comments