Coconut and peat tablets replace the soil for seedlings. Coconut Seedling Tablets

Gardening stores offer a lot of products to facilitate the work of a gardener in growing seedlings. A novelty of recent years is coconut seedling tablets. Sellers advertise them as best replacement peat tablets for seedlings and homemade soil mixtures. But why is coconut substrate so good for growing seedlings? Let's find out together.

I produce coconut seedling tablets both in the form of regular tablets and in the form of mini-tiles. They are obtained by pressing high temperature two components: 60-70% coconut fiber and 30-40% coconut flakes. High heat destroys all pathogenic microorganisms, and pressing gives the material the property of friability.

The acidity of the coco substrate is usually around 6.0 pH, which is close to neutral.

Coconut seedling tablets are first soaked in water, and then plant seeds are placed there. Coconut fiber tablets are prepared in the same way as described in.

Coconut substrate is gaining popularity among greenhouse owners around the world.

It is based on a by-product of coconut production - coconut husks. Before use, the fibrous shell of the coconut shell is crushed and fermented for 14-18 months. As a result of such processing, a stable substrate with an acidity of 5.4 to 6.6 pH is obtained. It does not change its qualities during storage and does not affect the composition and concentration of liquid dressings.

Another advantage of coco coir is its excellent ability to absorb water. At the same time, it retains moisture five times better than peat.

Even in the swollen state, this material retains high porosity. Air freely enters the roots of seedlings, and they develop better than in peat.

Coconut substrate helps to grow strong and healthy seedlings and safe for environment. It is 100% organic, contains no chemical additives and biodegrades in the soil.

High buffering capacity - the ability to effectively absorb and retain moisture - and the safety of coconut tablets ideal option for growing seedlings.

This is true, but only if you are lucky enough to get high-quality coconut seedling tablets. The thing is, counterfeit pills might contain quarantine pests, or they might be for other uses, such as hydroponic culture. That's why I advise you not to buy coconut tablets in dubious places and if the seller does not have all the documents.

Haven't decided yet what you'll be growing seedlings in this year? It will help you make a choice.

The advantages of a coconut substrate for seedlings are well described in the video, I recommend watching it.

Growing seedlings is a very responsible process. After all, the harvest of the next season depends on it. Therefore, all gardeners take the organization of sowing seeds for seedlings with particular seriousness. It is worth noting that many gardeners prefer to do everything the old fashioned way, as they have become accustomed to for many years of their dacha activities. But, nevertheless, now there are many devices that can make the job easier. Some of them are peat and coconut seedling tablets, we will learn how to use them correctly and give real reviews on the use of such products.

Peat tablets

This product is considered a simple, clean and fast method of planting seeds for seedlings. It is essentially compressed peat and looks like a medium-sized washer. The sides of such a product are covered with the finest natural mesh. Top part each tablet has a small recess - it is in it that the seeds are placed. The average height of one product is eight millimeters.

In order to plant seeds, readers of "Popular about Health" must first soak peat tablets in ordinary water. Already in a matter of seconds after immersion, such a product swells and increases in size, reaching almost five centimeters in height.

It is believed that wet peat is an ideal environment for seed germination. Water is easily retained in it, but at the same time, such an environment does not pose a threat of damage to seedlings by fungal diseases (for example, the "black leg" known to all summer residents quite often leads to the death of small plants).

How to use peat tablets?

Lower such a product to the bottom of a high tray and fill it with warm water. After a few seconds, the tablets will grow to the desired size.

Place planting material inside special recesses and carefully cover with one or two millimeters of peat from the tablet.

Send the resulting design to a cassette or seedling box, sign so as not to confuse where everything is. Then grow the plants as usual.

A distinctive plus of peat tablets is that when using them, seedlings do not need to dive (replant). It is only necessary to put a tablet with a seedling inside a larger glass or pot filled with soil. Cover the plant directly in the tablet with soil from above and from the sides, gently compact.

coconut tablets

Such a product looks about the same as peat tablets. It is based on coconut peat, as well as shavings and coconut fibers. Such tablets are additionally impregnated with special nutrient solutions that contain all the minerals and other useful particles that are important for the full growth and development of plants.

Coconut tablets are believed to provide particularly fast rooting for seedlings, allowing small plants to develop stronger root systems. Their use makes it possible in the future to get a harvest a little earlier.

Coconut substrate is an excellent conductor of heat, does not decompose, is able to retain moisture and prevent the activity of bacteria or weeds.

How to use coconut tablets?

Using these products is easy. But before direct use, it is better to rinse them with normal clean water to eliminate any remaining salt used to make them. You can use coconut tablets in the same way as peat tablets - place in a pan and pour warm water. You can also arrange coconut tablets conveniently and pour about forty milliliters of lukewarm water on each. Wait a little, the moisture should be absorbed.

Make a small indentation in the upper part of the swollen substrate, put planting material in it. Then cover the hole with coconut fiber. For creating greenhouse conditions you can cover each individual container with polyethylene.

Plants grown in coconut tablets also do not require picking. Transfer them to large containers or open ground without removing the packing net.

The use of peat and coconut tablets for growing indoor and outdoor seedlings garden plants(gloxinia, pelargonium, strawberry, etc.) in last years is becoming more and more popular. Although this convenient way sowing seeds is economically less profitable compared to the usual mass sowing in boxes, bowls and pots, but it has many clear benefits. These advantages become especially evident when the plants are simultaneously sown (from the same seeds) both in swollen tablets and in pots with a nutrient substrate.

The use of tablets is all the more relevant when, for some reason, we are late with crops at the recommended time. But at the same time, of course, we dream of getting flowering seedlings of our favorite plants as soon as possible! In such cases, peat and coconut tablets come to our aid, and the cost of their purchase becomes justified.

Of course, seeds can be germinated in peat and coconut tablets. different sizes, successfully growing seedlings of plants of all kinds. But in this article I will focus on seedlings from very small seeds, because it is with her that flower growers often have problems - and rare unfriendly seedlings, and their defeat by the “black leg”, and difficulties with picking tiny seedlings. The use of tablets allows growers to avoid these problems and get more short time healthy quality seedlings.

About the speed of germination of small seeds in tablets

This year (2017) when growing seedlings, I used coconut tablets for sowing small lobelia seeds, snapdragon and petunias.
On the same days, in February, I sowed some varieties of the same plants in pots. Therefore, now I can compare the germination rate of the same seeds - both in pots and in peat tablets.

As a result of this comparison, unambiguous conclusions arise.
Small seeds sown in swollen tablets germinate faster and more amicably, and seedlings develop much more actively than similar crops in pots with a substrate. This difference in germination and development of seedlings is so obvious that, in my opinion, the advantage of using tablets for accelerated cultivation seedlings fully justifies the cost of their purchase. Moreover, it is quite possible to reuse the released tablets!

Last week, in mid-March, I already emptied the grown seedlings of petunias, lobelias and snapdragons from coconut tablets into pots. And the same plants sown in pots, which are significantly lagging behind them in development, will continue to grow there until picking for some time. I believe that the difference in picking dates between them will be about 10 days or a little more.

About buying small flower seeds: regular and in granules

At the same time, I want to touch on one more important nuance here related to growing seedlings from small seeds.

Seeds of especially valuable petunia hybrids are now, as a rule, sold enclosed in granules. Undoubtedly, it is much easier to sow less pelleted small seeds (and also dive seedlings later) than ordinary non-granulated ones.
However, if we take as a basis the fact that the germination of both seeds is approximately the same, granular seeds germinate much more slowly (important: the granules must be destroyed immediately after sowing so that there are no obstacles for seed germination). This fact must be taken into account when choosing seeds in the store and when developing a planting schedule.

Lobelia seeds are now also found granular. They are much more expensive than usual, and also germinate much more slowly. It is assumed that several lobelia seedlings should grow from one granule at once, which should then be swooped down in “bundles”.
But experience shows that the number of seedlings in the "heaps" resulting from the granules varies greatly, which then inevitably affects the heterogeneity of the grown seedlings. Therefore, I believe that the high cost of granulated lobelia seeds is not justified in any way. It is better to sow cheaper non-granulated seeds in tablets and quickly get friendly seedlings, and then dive the seedlings into “bunches” of the same size.

Sowing small seeds in coconut tablets

Pour the tablets installed in a low bowl with warm boiled water.
If desired, a growth stimulator can be added to the water to speed up seed germination.
After the tablets swell, I drain the excess water and prepare them for sowing.

I used coconut tablets for sowing small seeds. The swollen tablets are about 3 cm in diameter and about 4 cm high.

Before sowing small seeds into a swollen tablet, I first cut the mesh-shell in its upper part. It is necessary to cut the top of the mesh so that the contents of the tablet, after leveling the surface, are well fixed and do not fall out over the edge of the shell.

In the photo: coconut tablets are cut before sowing; lobelia seedlings

On the leveled wet surface of the tablet substrate, placed on a white saucer, I evenly sow small seeds from a hard paper bag with an evenly cut edge.
As a rule, small seeds of plants of many species are light-similar, i.e. they need light to germinate, so you don't need to sprinkle the crops. For better contact with the substrate, lightly press the seeds into it with a fingertip.

The seeds that accidentally fell past the tablet are clearly visible on the saucer - they are easy to collect and place on the substrate.
Some small seeds can fall on the side of the tablet shell, stick and then germinate there - it's okay, when picking, these seedlings will be pulled out and planted in pots.

After sowing, I place the seed tablets in transparent plastic boxes from under packaged products with closing lids. In the lids of the boxes, you can pre-make ventilation holes; and you can do without them - just loosely close the lids, leaving a gap for constant ventilation of the seedlings.

I use suitable (corresponding to the dimensions of swollen coconut tablets) square boxes with sides 13.5x13.5 cm, height 8 cm. accommodates 15 varieties.

To take into account the varieties of sown plants, you need to number the boxes with pills, and draw a diagram for each of them. And then, in accordance with the arrangement of the tablets during the sowing process, mark the names of the varieties on the diagram.

Care of seedlings in tablets and their picking

The care of seedlings developing in swollen tablets placed in plastic boxes is very simple. It consists:
- in protecting seedlings from direct hot rays (in sunny days curtain window glass at the level of crops with a thin covering material);
- in highlighting seedlings in the morning, in the evening and on cloudy days, so that small plants are green and strong, do not stretch;
- in regular ventilation by opening the lid, so that the seedlings are accustomed to fresh air (during the ventilation, the condensate accumulated on the lid is shaken off - its drops flow back into the box);
- in rare wetting of tablets as moisture evaporates through the ventilation holes in the lid or through a slit from loose closed lid(I add water directly to the bottom of the box, which the drying tablets absorb).

Seedlings from small seeds develop rather slowly at first, but every day they grow faster and faster. Therefore, you need to prepare boxes or pots with a light substrate in advance for picking. So that by the time the seedlings have grown enough (do not let them grow, and their tops rest against the lid of the box), it would be possible to plant them in a timely manner.

For picking seedlings from small seeds, I prepare cups and other containers, filling them with a slightly moist, light, air- and water-permeable substrate (for example, you can add perlite, vermiculite, washed coarse sand, finely chopped dried sphagnum moss to the finished substrate).
I make holes in the substrate, in which the seedlings extracted from the tablets will be promptly planted.

If seedlings from small seeds have grown with sufficient light and regular access to fresh air, then they turn out to be quite strong and hardy - despite their apparent fragility.

Seedlings from small seeds grown in tablets are very convenient to dive. I take out a tablet with seedlings of each variety very carefully from the box - trying not to intertwine and pull out the seedlings from the removed tablet and from neighboring tablets.

In the photo: lobelia seedlings in a coconut tablet and after picking into a plastic cup

Right hand, with the help of a suitable thin tool with smooth edges (for example, one from a manicure set is suitable), I separate one or more seedlings located on the edge of the tablet from the total mass.
With my left hand, I carefully grab and pull out the selected group of seedlings from the tablet. Wherein right hand I make sure to hold the neighboring seedlings so that they remain in their place.
I immediately place the pulled out seedlings in the prepared hole (I deepen them almost to the cotyledon leaves) and, raking the substrate to them from the edges of the hole, lightly squeeze it around the planted plants so that they are well fixed. Then immediately slightly moisten the substrate around the plantings.

Important: picked in this way small plants I do not water, but only lightly spray the substrate around them from the spray gun. For the first time, i.e. for the period of rooting of seedlings, such moisture is quite enough for them.

I put the cups with the seedlings planted in them in transparent lids from under the cakes, and I put the lids in large transparent plastic bags. I inflate bags in the form of a ball, tie them on top and put them on the kitchen floor, where the light from the window penetrates.
I regularly air out these "mini-greenhouses" so that the rooting plants can breathe. fresh air. As they take root, you can make a vent hole in the bag for constant ventilation.

As soon as the development of the speared and rooted seedlings becomes noticeable, you can remove the cups with plants from the greenhouse and put them in a bright place (but keep them away from hot rays).

About pulling out and undermining seedlings when picking

Despite the seeming "bestiality" of such a rough method of extracting seedlings from a wet tablet, non-overgrown strong plants, when carefully pulled out and very quickly subsequent planting, do not receive any dangerous damage at all. Their small roots, on which particles of coconut substrate often remain, then take root without problems within a few days.

With careful work, with the acquisition of appropriate skills, such a pick is easy and successful. Soon, the planted seedlings begin to start growing.

By the way, I often pull out seedlings when picking from cups with a light substrate, if thick crops are obtained. This is especially true if very heterogeneous and unfriendly seedlings have occurred (i.e. some plants have already grown up and are ready for picking, and small undergrowth seedlings are still very close to them). So, with such a forced phased picking of seedlings, pulling out grown seedlings gives both these plants and their small neighbors much less anxiety than digging up roots.
Although when picking seedlings of plants of some species (gelenium, primrose, geyhera, coleus, etc.), you still have to dig in, because their seedlings have practically no stem: a rosette of leaves develops right at the soil level.

Re-inoculations in used tablets

Used tablets after removing small seedlings from them are practically not damaged, they remain intact. Therefore, it is quite possible to use them again - for new crops or for rooting cuttings.

Now, at the beginning of the third decade of March, small seeds can be sown superficially in used coconut or peat tablets. variety of plants: ageratum, mint, purslane, mesembryanthemum, alissum (lobularia), daisy, seaside cineraria, fragrant tobacco, monarda, brachycomas, etc.

Wish you successful crops and picks!

Elena Yurievna Ziborova (Samara)
Gardenia.ru "Floriculture: Pleasure and Benefits"

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Coconut is one of the most common delicacies in our country. Studies have shown that exotic nut chips are not only tasty, but also carry a lot of useful properties. But is this true and who should not eat coconut?

How is coconut flaked made?

The question of the production of coconut flakes is of interest to many. But there is no secret in this, and the process of making this delicacy cannot be called complicated. Coconut flakes are made from the flesh of the coconut (the white inner part of the nut). To get the treasured pulp, the nut is divided into parts and, having received the basis for coconut flakes, is sent for processing.

The pulp is subjected to grinding (coarse, medium, fine). After grinding, the particles go through a drying stage until the moment of complete hardening.

The last stage of production is the passage of chips through a sieve, thanks to which the product is packaged in accordance with fine, medium or coarse grinding.

Useful properties of coconut flakes

Despite the fact that coconut flakes are processed and dried, it still retains all the benefits of coconut pulp. by the most useful properties coconut flakes can be noted:

Stabilizes bowel function

Coconut, due to its structure, perfectly cleanses the intestines and removes all toxins and waste from it.

· Strengthens the immune system

This delicacy is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Prevention of atherosclerosis

Coconut flakes, basically energy composition, is a fat. But due to the absence of cholesterol in coconut pulp, coconut flakes are excellent for preventing atherosclerosis.

Stimulation of the nervous system

Due to the high content of nutrients, coconut improves concentration, memory, and also improves mood and relieves stress.

Has antiviral properties

Helps in the treatment of helminthiasis

Coconut flakes contain a lot of beneficial vitamins and micronutrients. These include: vitamins C, B, E, as well as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iodine, potassium, manganese, fluorine and iron.

Also, the delicacy contains fiber, which has a positive effect on work. gastrointestinal tract and stabilizes metabolism. Moreover, coconut flakes are great for vegetarians, as they do not contain components of animal origin and are rich in substances useful for the human body: glucose, fructose, sucrose.

What harm can coconut flakes do to human health?

Any useful product has a number of contraindications. But coconut flakes have only one minus - a possible allergic reaction. Such side effect from consumption, inherent in all products plant origin, but rarely occurs, solely due to individual intolerance. People who are allergic to coconuts should refrain from eating dried coconut flakes.

Also, coconut flakes are not recommended to be added to food for children under one year old, due to high content it has fat. As for the use of coconut flakes during weight loss, this should be done very carefully, because 100 grams of the product contains approximately 600 kilocalories. It can be concluded that coconut is a rather high-calorie product and its uncontrolled use can negatively affect the figure.

Coconut during pregnancy and lactation: good or bad?

Coconut flakes are a storehouse of nutrients and vitamins.

Coconut seedling tablets in Russia

If a woman does not have an individual intolerance to coconut fruits during pregnancy or lactation, then this product will only benefit the expectant mother.

During pregnancy, as well as during lactation, it is not only not prohibited, but it is also recommended to consume fruits coconut tree: coconuts, coconut oil and milk. Coconut is no exception, because it saturates the body and breast milk mothers with useful trace elements that help the child in early development.

But it should be noted that during breastfeeding, such a useful product should be consumed no more than 30 grams per day so as not to cause an allergic reaction in the child. It is also recommended to monitor the body of the baby, and, noticing an allergy, immediately exclude coconut from the mother's diet, and also seek advice from a pediatrician.

How to choose the healthiest and tastiest coconut flakes?

The choice of coconut flakes must be approached wisely. Manufacturers often save on the production of a product, so you should pay attention to the following factors:

1. Type of grinding

2. Chip size

3. Quality mark

Coconut flakes exist in fine, medium and coarse grinding. The best - fine grinding chips. Manufacturers save on the product of medium and coarse grinding, and as a result, instead of tasty and melting chips on the tongue, you can get dry and tasteless dust.

It is necessary to pay attention to the size of the chips. Often this product is sold packaged in transparent bags, so it will not be difficult to estimate the size of the particles. Despite the fact that manufacturers indicate the type of grind on the packaging, they can still mix different types between themselves.

As for the quality, it is necessary to prefer, of course, the highest. Almost every manufacturer indicates its quality on the packaging of coconut flakes (fine - higher, medium - medium, coarse - low quality).

Coconut shavings at home

Certainly, modern market teeming by various manufacturers coconut flakes, but what could be tastier than homemade, self-made treats?

The preparation of homemade coconut flakes should be taken seriously, because tasty and fragrant flakes can only be obtained from fresh and good coconut. It is necessary to pay attention that there are no damages and mold on the coconut, the “eyes” of the nut are dry, when tapped the fruit gurgles and is not too light.

After acquiring a suitable nut, you can start cooking coconut flakes. This will require:

Break open the coconut and remove all the flesh from it;

The resulting coconut pulp should be washed in water and dried;

Pour 350 ml of boiling water over coconut dust and leave for 40 minutes;

· Lay the dried cake in a thin layer on a baking sheet and send for 1 hour in the oven at a temperature of 50 degrees. Door oven it is better to leave open and periodically mix the dust;

Remove from oven and let cool.

This is how you can quickly and easily prepare a healthy addition to meat, salad, bakery products and sweets.

In conclusion, it should be noted that coconut flakes are a tasty and healthy product that will decorate any dish.

Coconut substrate is still poorly distributed in Russia and neighboring countries, and there is a simple explanation for this: our gardeners are poorly informed about its advantages and merits, since coconut is not grown in Russia, therefore, it is used here much less often than in its habitat . The second reason for the low interest in such soil is the fact that, due to poor awareness, gardeners often simply do not know how to use it correctly, therefore, they make mistakes and, getting a negative result, stop using it altogether. Therefore, everything is to blame solely for the lack of information that this article will try to fill.

In order to grow various crops, two types of soil can be used:

• Organic, which is based on natural elements created by nature, such as coconut substrate, moss, bark, peat. All of them are harmless and environmentally friendly. They do not need to be disposed of in any way, as they decompose naturally over time;
• Mineral, which is made artificially, it contains chemical components such as expanded clay, mineral wool, volcanic rocks and many others.

Both of these types are used as independent soil, and as an addition to the main one.

Benefits of coco substrate

The soil based on coconut fiber has a number of advantages that distinguish it from other types of soil:

• The abundance of nutritional components contained in peat;
• Compactness, thanks to which it is easy to store and transport;
• Availability, because rare and expensive natural components are not involved in its production;
• The acidity level is 5.5-6.8, this indicator is considered neutral and will remain so throughout the life of the substrate;
• The consistency of the soil is loose, it has good absorbent properties. Thanks to this, it is preserved required level soil moisture, aeration of plant roots occurs;
• The strength of the soil, it can be used for several years, it will not cake or compact, the structure of the material does not change over time;
• Organisms and bacteria harmful to plants and soil do not take root in it;
• High performance characteristics: according to the manufacturer's warranty, the substrate can be used for up to five years.

Material disadvantages

Despite the fact that coconut soil has a huge list of advantages, unfortunately, it is also not without disadvantages.

The main one is the fact that the coco substrate is very saline, due to the fact that the coconut tree itself loves saline soil, which causes a high percentage of chlorine, potassium and sodium to accumulate in the peel of its nut.

Some of them are washed out during processing, however, at the final stage, a sufficient amount remains in the structure of the material. a large number of salts.

When choosing a soil, it is imperative to pay attention to its manufacturer: the quality of the material may differ markedly for different carriers.

Specify exactly how the fiber was processed: if it was washed with rainwater, the salinity index of such soil will be significantly lower. It will be good if the fibers were dried under the natural rays of the sun: this will save much more of their mechanical and physical characteristics. Machine drying, unfortunately, will not give the same effect.

If the purchased soil seems too salty to you, you can rinse it yourself with clean water at least three times. The temperature is +16 degrees.

Features of coconut soil

The material is produced in the form of briquettes, blocks, mats, or tablets.

The soil differs not only in shape and size, but also in structure. When it is processed, the fibers are washed, beaten until soft, then straightened and laid. In some cases, the fibers are further crushed. As a result, three different soil fractions come out of the coco: "chips", fiber and peat. The last of these is characterized by the ability to hold the largest number liquid, however, it does not provide sufficient oxygen to the roots, so it is not used as the main soil and is usually added as an additional component to other garden soil.

Best of all, coconut soil is suitable for growing a variety of ornamental plants. It will most actively develop their root system without the threat of infection by diseases and microbes. As a result, the green mass of the flower is formed much faster and thicker.

What else is the material suitable for:

• Houseplants;
• garden flowers;
• Distillation flowers (such as rose, gerbera, chrysanthemum and others);
• Vegetables in a greenhouse;
• Strawberry.

Application area

Coconut soil is very favorable for seeds, germination of roots from leaves or cuttings, young seedlings. The material is rich in such components as potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen and many other elements useful for seedlings. However, coconut soil alone will not help provide seedlings with the necessary amount of nutrition, because. it is very slow in the process of absorption of trace elements and natural decomposition.

Therefore, in order to create plants favorable conditions growth, it is necessary to use coco substrate along with garden soil in a ratio of one to one, this will provide proper care and give right amount top dressing.

IN pure form such peat can be used for plants like succulents or palm trees - they are less whimsical to growing conditions. Also, those crops that need to be fed exclusively with irrigation and in small quantities can grow in pure coconut soil.

How to use coconut seedling pills

If the plant is capricious and requires special conditions and constant fertilization, then the coconut substrate can be mixed with expanded clay, biohumus or simple peat.

The use of such soil on clay has a positive effect. The earth becomes moisture-intensive and loose, liquid is better retained in it, respectively, the frequency of irrigation and the flow of liquid decreases markedly, this is important in greenhouses or hotbeds.

Coconut substrate in greenhouses

In the greenhouse, you can lay 2 types of soil based on coconut fiber:

• Fiber peat and simple soil in a ratio of one to one;
• Peat and fiber chips in the same proportion. Such material is sold in the finished version in the format of mats.

The second type of substrate has a number of advantages: it does not need to be further disinfected, it can be used for several seasons in a row, with proper lighting it can be laid both inside the greenhouse and outside on level structures. If you carry out the correct disinfection of the soil, then you can also grow a ringworm or oyster mushroom on it.

Don't leave wet coco coir in closed bags or boxes: it will sour and spoil. If after garden work excess soil remains, they must be dried well in the sun, then packed and placed in a dry place. For later use, simply moisten it with liquid.

Bulbs and tubers can be stored and even germinated in unused coco substrate.

How to use coconut seedling tablets (application)

Trace elements: boron, manganese, copper, molybdenum, zinc, iron
Acidity (pH) of water extract 5.5 .. 6.0
Humidity no more than 65%

Application:

Natural nutrient soil for growing seedlings and plants of various vegetable, flower and ornamental crops at home and on household plots, in open and protected ground.

Before planting, the briquette-tablet is placed in a 0.8 liter pot with holes at the bottom.

The pots should be placed in pallets, gradually adding warm water (350-450 ml per 1 briquette) - bring it to full saturation by flooding.

Saturation can be carried out by watering from above onto the briquette.
Watering is carried out in 50-100 ml in 3-4 doses until the tablet is completely saturated.

Seeds are sown in loose, saturated soil, seedlings dive, seedlings or seedlings are planted.

quantities nutrients in a tablet is enough for the growth and development of plants for 20-25 days, then the plants are periodically fed with a solution of complex mineral fertilizer.

Package:

Briquette "Pill" in PVC film - 6 pieces;

Transport package:

• corrugated box measuring 580 x 380 x 150 mm, in a corrugated box 20 packs.
• corrugated box measuring 580 x 380 x 150 mm, in a corrugated box 124 tablets.

Growing beautiful seedlings of vegetable, flower crops is exciting, important occupation from individual gardeners, specialists of large greenhouses. To do this, someone is busy searching for "mole" land, independently forming the desired soil composition, and delivering finished soil. Nowadays, modern substrates are increasingly being used, which have effective properties that allow growing strong seedlings with a good root system.

What are coke tablets?

This is not just soil in bags, but convenient peat pots, tablets, liners of various sizes, etc. Among them, the coconut substrate has become a real leader. Modern technologies even geotextiles can be made from it. It is used, for example, to strengthen the shore of a garden pond, durable shelters trunk circles in the form of decorative mulch, nutritional inserts in hanging planters, nutrient beds for growing vegetables, other elements.

coco substrate

The raw material for the manufacture of convenient tablets is coconut substrate. Its appearance is associated with the spread of the famous coconut palm or "tree of life", called in antiquity. All its parts are useful, used in modern production technologies. Back in the 90s of the last century, American specialists developed a technology for using coconut waste. It was based on the presence of a thick nutrient layer in the nut, called the mesocarp. Under natural conditions, the core of the future tree sprouts in it, receiving the necessary nutrition for several months before entering the ground. The fibrous properties of the mesocarp made it possible to obtain valuable coconut fiber from it, which is used in many industries. They learned how to prepare coco substrate from production waste. At the final technological stage of coconut fiber processing, the obtained fractions are sorted, mixed in the required proportions, and pressed. No chemicals are used in the manufacturing process of the substrate, which guarantees the creation of an environmentally friendly product.

Properties of coconut tablets

Valuable physical properties coco substrate are high values moisture capacity, air permeability, which is considered an important factor in the creation of tablets. In the process of their manufacture, microelements and other useful components are added to the substrate. They create normal acidity, increase the nutritional quality of the soil. Durable, have good heat capacity, absorption capacity such coconut seedling tablets. How to use them for planting seeds is well described in the video:

Provide good air penetration, do not contain weed seeds, do not emit harmful substances. Germination of seeds in tablets is faster. At the same time, a powerful root system is actively formed. This is important for the subsequent development of seedlings in a permanent place. Usually, seedlings experience stress when planting in any type of soil, which stops the development of the plant in initial period. This does not happen when transplanted with a tablet. 100% plant survival is observed. Tablets are ideal soil for all crops. In any soil, they completely decompose. There is no need to dispose of tablets. There is no need to pick plants.

Studies of the microbiological safety of the coconut substrate showed an insignificant content of mold fungi of the species Aspergillus, Penicillium. Compared to commonly used peat pots, it is three times smaller. Moreover, their number does not increase after two months of using the tablets. This is very important for the subsequent healthy development of any plants without the use of the recommended chemicals. The increased value of salt, chlorine, associated with the characteristics of the growth of the coconut palm, is removed in the process technological production tablets.

Seedling tablets - how to use it correctly, simple tips

The quality of coconut tablets does not change for 5 years.

Coconut tablets are well saturated with air through their porous structure. With its deficiency, toxic compounds quickly accumulate in the soil, negatively affecting the composition of nutrients. This leads to a slowdown in the development of any plant. Unlike peat pellets, briquettes do not settle, they quickly absorb moisture without the formation of a surface crust. At the same time, there is no possibility of rotting of the root system of plants from excess moisture. The roots develop quickly, which ensures the appearance of the first crop two weeks earlier.

So, how to grow seedlings in coconut tablets?

Coconut substrate, prepared in the form of tablets, is recommended for growing vegetables, flowers, strawberries using low-volume technology. The main areas of application of tablets are agrotechnical methods of germinating seeds, growing seedlings, rooting cuttings. When they are carried out, the following operations are performed:

• selection of pots, cassettes for tablets. The main requirement for them is the size. The depth of the container should be 10 cm higher than the height of the tablets freely entering the pot;
• flushing running water. This is done to remove the remaining sea salt;
• at the bottom of the pots, the tablet is placed with a recess upwards. If it is absent, then it is done independently;
• pour a tablet with warm water at the rate of about 40 ml into each recess. After a few minutes, the tablets increase in size. If an excess of water is noticeable, then the tablet is slightly squeezed out without removing their pot;
• two seeds of plants prepared in advance for planting are placed in each recess.

  Close them with pieces of a tablet;

• cover all containers with a film to form a favorable climate for future shoots. It is necessary to carefully monitor the state of the tablet substrate. It is not allowed to dry out. A sign of a lack of moisture is considered to be squeezing the tablet, lagging behind the walls of the pots;
• transplanting plants to a permanent place.

This innovation has become a great gift for gardeners, now growing seedlings in coconut tablets at home is as easy as shelling pears!

Peat is very useful for plants, as it is formed by rotting marsh plants. Seedlings growing in peat tablets immediately receive two advantages:

Lightweight, air and moisture permeable substrate;
nutrients from decayed plants.

Peat tablets have been used by agronomists for many years. In them, the seeds germinate well, and the roots develop well. But this is only on condition that the manufacturer used high-quality peat. You should be especially careful when choosing a manufacturer of tablets.

In addition, if you do not plan to use additional containers, be sure to have a mesh stretched over the tablet. Otherwise, the tablet will fall apart after swelling.

Peat or coco soil - which is better?

On this issue, the opinions of agronomists are divided. For some, the experience with peat discs has developed more successfully, for others the opposite. By and large, there is not a very big difference between these materials. Coconut tablets retain more air and moisture and are considered to be more preferable for especially capricious and expensive plants. According to the observations of farmers, peat tablets are sometimes covered with mold when there is excess moisture.

In this matter greater value has not a kind of substrate - coconut or peat, but its quality. In high-quality coco-soil and high-quality peat, seedlings will develop equally successfully. However, if there were violations in the production of agricultural material or its storage, then this will necessarily have a negative impact on the state of the crops grown. In view of this, carefully study the manufacturer and intermediary before buying tablets.

Do not be upset that you have not received a definite answer to the question: which tablets - coconut or peat - are better for seedlings? The information provided to your attention, based on the invaluable experience of skilled summer residents and gardeners, confirms only one fact - both materials are perfect for growing seedlings. different cultures, if they High Quality. Try both options to draw your own conclusion. Experiment with different manufacturers. That way you can find the best option.

Watch the video: Peat and coconut tablets: comparison test

Probably all gardeners and summer residents know about peat tablets. But the rating for them is currently falling, and coconut pills are coming to replace them in the life of a summer resident. What do they represent? These are pressed coconut fibers, in the form of flattened cylinders - tablets - and impregnated with useful substances. These tools are convenient and are a novelty of our time. Coconut tablets are suitable for growing crops and allow you to achieve good germination and get excellent sprouts for a future transplant.

The composition of the tablets

In this article, we are talking about which coconut or peat tablets are best for seedlings. In the beginning, it is worth finding out what composition these tablets have. The shape, as we have already indicated, is cylindrical. The composition itself is a mixture of 70% coco peat and about 30% shavings and coconut fibers. Peat, in turn, is shredded coconut skin. It is dried, subjected high pressure. Also in the tablets there are useful substances necessary for plants. Note that natural material is used without the addition of any chemical impurities.

Properties

Pills for seedlings are very much in demand today. The reason for the popularity of tablets is:

• rapid rooting of seedling growth,
• good and strong roots,
• comfortable fit.

For comparison: it is already possible to start harvesting fruits a week and a half earlier than if you used ordinary peat. In addition, the soil itself is enriched, its properties become better.

On a note! Memorize the recipe useful soil. One tablet - 40 ml of tepid water. Wait for the water to soak in.

Of course, mineral wool can also be used for such purposes. But coconut pills are preferable because they have three important benefits:

• First, they are recycled.
• Secondly, they don't sag.
• Thirdly, crust formation is not observed.

On a note! And the tablets are saturated with air.

Experienced gardeners and horticulturalists know that it is important to maintain a certain level of oxygen in the soil, otherwise the plants will find it difficult to grow. The lack of this important chemical element leads to the appearance of toxic substances that worsen quality characteristics soil and nutrient levels. But let's look at the benefits in more detail.

Properties of coconut tablets:

• excellent heat transfer;
• resistance to decomposition;
• water retention (liquid in tablets is securely stored and enters the root system as needed);
• can support optimal level acidity (this makes it possible to grow absolutely any crop);
• prevents the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
• good air permeability (favorable air exchange is created, unhindered access of nutrients and liquid to the root system);
• the presence of antibacterial substances;
• long-term - they can be used several times in a row;
• allows you to get seedlings of high quality;
• ease of use;
• do not sag in case of waterlogging;
• ease of transfer.

Product types

In this article, it is worth deciding what is better to use - peat or coconut tablets. On the market you can see different incarnations of the coconut mixture: there are also in the form of tablets, there are also in the form of mats (3x100x15 cm). The size depends on what crops you want to plant. For example, for plants with small seeds, use tablets with a diameter of about 25 mm, and under 35 mm or more - eggplant, pepper and others. This will give you the opportunity not to transplant sprouts into large containers.

On the shelves it is possible to see tablets with small greenhouses. We'll talk about everything in more detail later.

Usage Methods

In this section of the article, it is worth talking about how to use seedling tablets. Of course, in this case, you should definitely use the recommendations below.

1. Prepare a container in which you are going to grow seedlings. It is necessary that the height be greater than the height of the tablet (taking into account moisture, of course. This is about 15 cm;
2. Rinse the tablets. It is necessary to get rid of the sea salt that is used in their manufacture;
3. Then pour warm water over the container (not hot!). Approximately one tablet should account for about 35-40 ml. The contents of the container should swell after a while;
4. Next, make a small indentation in its upper part and place there required amount seeds. Cover it with coconut fiber or peat;
5. Cover the container with polyethylene film to maintain favorable conditions;
6. The resulting seedlings are transplanted into the holes, while the packing net is not removed. Water and fill holes a small amount soil to facilitate plant adaptation.

On a note! For rooting growth, for example, cuttings of violets, roses, you need to follow a slightly different pattern. Wet the container a little, make a hole in the center, place the cutting there. Tamp the soil, cover with some material (film, for example) to maintain moisture.

Tablets with greenhouses

Wondering what can be grown in coconut tablets? Then you can grow completely different vegetable crops. In this part of the article it is worth talking about pills with greenhouses. Greenhouses are designed in such a way that they provide optimal conditions for plants. Consider the use of such greenhouses. Don't be afraid - there is nothing complicated here.

1. Fill the tray with water;
2. Wait for the tablets to swell;
3. Plant cuttings or seeds;
4. Cover the tray with a lid.
5. Such designs are suitable for seedlings of both vegetables and flowers.

On a note! This method of cultivation allows the use of different fertilizers.

Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed reading this publication. Summing up, we note the following: it is better to choose tablets in a mesh shell, because when swelling, the product becomes shapeless such plasticine, which is not so convenient to use.

Also look at who made the product and how well it was made. Sometimes in goods Low quality quarantine pests may be contained, which will entail bad consequences for future seedlings.