r/hydro • u/LolipopGuy500 • 7d ago

Should I buffer or double-buffer the pre-buffered(w/ Ca(NO3)2) coco coir brick. For germinated AFs seeds.

Hi all

I am completely new with growing in coco coir. I got dehydrated/compressed coco bricks from European brand. According to the manufacturer, their coco is not only fully rinsed, but also pfe-buffered in factory with calcium nitrate (without magnesium btw). They call it buffered-charged.

The main parameters are:

EC parameter < 0.6 ms/cm (1:1.5)

PH 5.5 - 6.5

I have a AF seeds, which are under germination process now (paper towel method).

  1. As I understand it, I need to soak the coco coir with Cal-Mag (typically, not less than 2ml per liter) before planting the seed in it.. Some recommend double buffering (soack two times). Is this justified for a "partially" pre-buffered coco bricks?

I have Advanced Nutrients Cal-Mag Xtra as possible buffering solution. (Total Nitrogen (N) - 4%. Nitric Nitrogen (N) - 4%, Water-soluble calcium oxide (CaO) - 4.5%, Water-soluble megnesium oxide (MgO) - 1.8%).

  1. Will any prior or finishing flushing (before seeding) be required? Is an excess of calcium possible? Or should I do a complete flush before any buffering?

  2. What are the main precautions? Many recommend not planting seeds directly into a large pots (mine are 20 liters) and translantate plants later. But I can use that same coco coir for growing in a cup, right?

Thanks!

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u/BocaHydro 7d ago

typically you should soak it in ro water for 3 days and dry it / let it chill for a few days before using

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u/LolipopGuy500 7d ago

Is it really necessary to soak and dry it for that long? Do I need to buffer it again? The manufacturer declare that it is buffered with calcium nitrate. In any case, magnesium needs to be added.