Plant Growing Medium

There are many features, benefits and drawbacks about the many types of plant growing medium for cannabis hydroponics. Proper texture of the substrate influence strong root penetration, oxygen retention, nutrient uptake, and drainage.

A quick overview on the major hydroponic growing medium:

Coconut Fiber: (or Coir) is a waste product of the coconut industry. Look for a high grade to avoid excessive sea salt, which is adverse to delicate root systems.	Expanded Clay: can be reused. Large pellets permit good aeration and drainage but lower water retention. So more watering may be needed).	Pumice: loosens heavy clay soil, lets air and water penetrate. Pumice does not deteriorate or rot. Therefore it will not clog equipment and can be reused.

Peat Moss: has sponge-like properties. However, the practice of harvesting peat moss is under environmental impact scrutiny. Coconut fiber has been an ideal alternative.	Perlite: does not decompose and has virtually neutral pH. However, it known to contain fluoride. If that's a concern to you, you may want to consider another hydroponic medium.	Rockwool: commonly comes in grow cubes, slabs, or granulate form. It is reusable with proper sterilization but not biodegradable.

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