💧 Watering & Nutrient Delivery
Watering is arguably the most critical aspect of plant care. There's no one-size-fits-all schedule; instead, you'll learn to read your plants and their medium.
📏 When to Water: The Golden Rule
Water when needed, not on a schedule! Your plants will tell you when they're thirsty.
- Lift Test: A dry pot feels significantly lighter than a freshly watered one.
- Top Inch Check: Stick your finger about an inch deep. If dry, it's likely time to water.
- Leaf Turgidity: Slightly drooping leaves (not wilting) can indicate thirst.
⚠️ Overwatering Signs
The most common mistake that suffocates roots by depriving them of oxygen.
- Symptoms: Heavy, drooping leaves (not limp), yellowing from bottom up, stunted growth, moldy topsoil.
- Solution: Stop watering, improve drainage and airflow, let medium dry out significantly.
🏜️ Underwatering Signs
Less common in coco but can occur if neglected.
- Symptoms: Limp, wilting leaves (light and lifeless), crispy edges, very light pot.
- Solution: Water thoroughly until 10-20% runoff from bottom.
🔬 Proper Mixing Protocol
- Start with clean, RO water if possible
- Add CalMag first (for coco), mix well
- Add Part A nutrients, mix well
- Add Part B nutrients, mix well
- Add any boosters/supplements
- Check and adjust pH LAST (5.8-6.2 for coco)
🎯 Remember: Always err on the side of slightly underwatering rather than overwatering. Plants recover quickly from underwatering but overwatering damage is much harder to reverse.