Coir Research Paper

Coir has many uses throughout the horticulture and agriculture industries as a favourable product used to maintain optimal flora health. Coir is used as a substitute for sphagnum moss, found in peat, that is a constituent of many potting soil varieties to increase soil pH conditions; suitable for plants that thrive in more acidic conditions. In addition, coir is useful as covering brush for smaller plantations to deter snails from subsisting on maturing plants, retaining moisture, maintaining garden structure and trapping air. The biodegradability of coir makes for a favourable environmentally sustainable practice, however incomplete decomposition of coconut fibres can result in nitrogen deficiencies within the exposed plant and surrounding environments. These abnormal levels can be counteracted by adding nitrogen supplements into the coir mixture. Coir is also considered to be more environmentally sustainable through reducing ecosystem damage resulting from current practices involved in peat extraction and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with processing.