Common Mistakes When Using Coco Peat & Coco Husk Chips (And How to Fix Them)

Coco peat and coco husk chips are among the best organic growing media in the world. However, incorrect use can lead to root rot, nutrient lockout, or poor plant performance.

Based on real feedback from farms, nurseries, and distributors, Vinatap Vietnam summarizes the most common mistakes — and how to fix them properly.

If you are new to coco-based substrates, start with our pillar guide: What Is Coco Peat? Complete Growing Medium Guide

Mistake #1: Using High EC Coco Peat for Sensitive Crops

One of the most serious mistakes is using unwashed or high EC coco peat for seedlings, hydroponics, or salt-sensitive plants.

• Burned roots
• Slow or uneven growth
• Nutrient imbalance

• Use Low EC coco peat
• Always check EC < 0.5 mS/cm for seedlings
• Flush substrate before planting if unsure

Mistake #2: Using 100% Coco Peat Without Aeration

Coco peat holds a lot of water. Using it alone for long-cycle crops can reduce oxygen at the root zone.

• Root suffocation
• Fungal diseases
• Poor nutrient uptake

• Mix coco peat with coco husk chips
• Recommended ratios explained in: Best Coco Peat & Coco Husk Chip Ratios

Mistake #3: Wrong Particle Size for the Crop

Not all coco husk chips are the same. Using oversized chips for small-root plants or too fine material for orchids leads to instability.

• Use fine coco peat for seedlings & hydroponics
• Use 10–20mm chips for orchids & decorative plants
• Check Coco Husk Chips Vietnam specifications

Mistake #4: No Calcium / Magnesium Buffering

Coco-based substrates naturally bind calcium and magnesium. Without buffering, plants may show deficiency symptoms.

• Use pre-buffered coco peat from factory
• Or buffer with Ca-Mg solution before planting
• Vinatap supplies factory-washed & buffered coco peat

Mistake #5: Overwatering Coco-Based Media

Many growers treat coco peat like soil. This leads to overwatering because coco peat already retains moisture.

• Reduce irrigation frequency
• Focus on drainage rather than saturation
• Use moisture sensors for commercial farms

Mistake #6: Buying Inconsistent Quality Coco Products

Low-quality coco peat may contain sand, dust, or uneven fiber content. This causes inconsistent results across planting beds.

• Buy directly from manufacturer
• Request lab tests (EC, pH, moisture)
• Use factory-grade products from Vinatap Vietnam

Why Vinatap Vietnam Prevents These Problems

• Washed & Low EC coco peat available
• Controlled chip size & blending ratios
• Stable quality for export markets
• Technical support for farms & distributors

Explore our main products:

• Low EC Coco Peat
• Coco Peat 50L
• Coco Peat 1000L Jumbo Bag
• Coco Husk Chips

Contact Vinatap Vietnam

Vinatap Vietnam Co., Ltd
Long Binh Industrial Zone, Bien Hoa, Dong Nai, Vietnam
Email: vinatap@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +84 888 888 8609
Website: www.vinatap.vn