Abstract
We examined the efficacy of coir dust (CD)—the short fibers and dust from the mesocarp of coconuts (Cocos nucifera L.)—as an alternative to sphagnum peat (SP) in 50 SP : 50 vermiculite (% volume) medium. Shoot dry mass of coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata L.) or `Red Robin' tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) after 5 weeks' growth in up to 50 CD : 50 vermiculite (% volume) was similar to that in 50 SP : 50 vermiculite and a commercial peat-lite (Pro-Mix BX). These growth responses depended on preplant controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) [Osmocote 17N-3.9P-10.8K at 11.5 lb/yd3 (4 kg·m−3)] and/or a post-transplanting weekly solution fertilization (SF) at 350 ppm (mg·L−1) N from 21N-2.2P-16.6K. Compared to SP, CD had lower bulk density and cation exchange capacity (volume basis) and higher C to N ratio, pH, total porosity, and container capacity. We conclude that CD is an adequate alternative to SP in soilless container media.
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