Growing Media

Expanded clay pebbles are used in hydroponics as a medium to support the plant. They are chemically inert, do not affect pH and provide excellent drainage. They are made from a special type of clay, which is heated to a high temperature causing it to pop like popcorn.

Coco peat, such as CocoTek Premium Coir, is an organic medium made from coconuts, frequently used in both hydroponics and seed sowing mixes. Its advantages are that it is lightweight, relatively inert and comes from a sustainable source. However, coco peat comes in various grades, and can actually be detrimental to plant growth if it contains salt-water residues from poor processing.

Rockwool is a substrate made by melting rock, extruding it in threads and then pressing it into sponge-like blocks.

Both expanded clay pebbles and coco peat are pH neutral media. Expanded clay pebbles provide free drainage and aeration, while coco peat provides moisture retention and the ability to hold onto a small amount of nutrients.

They can. Rinse the growing media (especially important when using rockwool) before using it. We suggest you check the nutrient solution pH and ppm(see above) and adjust the solution accordingly.