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I really like the coir, and mix in other amendments to get the mix I want for whatever I am planting. Unlike peat, it actually absorbs water when dry, with many other benefits. I like the environmental aspects, but get frustrated when I see these blocks sold in individually plastic wrapped blocks, which I would say is not very environmentally friendly and a lot more expensive. I also use paper pots I make instead of peat pots. Sphagnum peat is renewable like trees are: If you harvest the sphagnum peat faster than it regrows, there is a net loss. And just like an established mixed forest vs. a clear cut forest or a farm field, there is a huge difference between a harvested peat bog and an undisturbed one.
My source of bulk coir from a few years ago is no longer available, and I am wondering if anyone knows of a seller that may be willing to sell a few hundred bricks of the coir not individually wrapped. Previously, I would split the large order with my Master Gardener group, as well as use it for education. I am just about out of my supply, and would like to get some more soon.
One more thought: I have noticed fungus gnats are present in the coir that I have used, just like in much of the peat I use to use. My solution is to rehydrate the coir in boiling water, which cooks the eggs and destroys them. I don't think hard boiled fungus gnat eggs would be good for breakfast, though.
Thank you for your thoughts.
I don't know of a wholesaler, but hopefully somebody will see this thread and respond. You might also ask on another forum -- Propagation, maybe?
My double-sized block of coir was just wrapped in something like saran wrap, which served to keep it dry... I didn't worry about that amount of plastic, but then I probably won't use more than a few big bricks per season. A local nursery grower might be able to put you in touch with a supplier, also...
The coir I'm using is in a loose fill bag rather than the brick. I like it because it takes less effort to use it. I'm getting it from Densu Coir, http://www.densucoir.com/order.htm
You could contact them and see if they have a local supplier for you. It's kind of pricey, but I purchased a couple of pallets and got a good deal.
The product is finely ground, not stringy at all. I really like it.
