5-Step Coir Basket Growing Guide

Hanging baskets made from coir, a natural material extracted from coconut husks, have become increasingly popular in the gardening world. Coir is an excellent material for gardening because it holds moisture but still allows air to pass through. It is also resistant to pests and decay. Use our 5-step coir basket growing guide to create a basket of your own and ensure that your plants stay hydrated without developing rot or fungus. 

Step 1: Choose a Basket

Decide whether you want a hanging basket or a standing pot. You can use a basket made entirely of coir or use coir to line an existing basket or basket frame. 

The size of your basket or pot will determine how much water your plants will need and how well they will be able to grow. Small baskets will need to be watered more often than large baskets. However, large baskets can complement taller pedestals and are often more suitable for gardens.

Step 2: Line the Basket 

Cut a piece of coir that is large enough to fill the basket and position it so that it hangs over the edges of the basket by an inch. You can also purchase premeasured disks of coir to make this process easier. Alternatively, you can purchase a basket that’s already lined with coir.

Soak the coir for 30 seconds or until it’s soft enough to mold easily to the basket. Press it firmly into the basket, and soak it for longer if it doesn’t easily conform to the shape of the basket.

Step 3: Create Drainage 

Use a pencil or knitting needle to poke small drainage holes in the coir. These should line up with the drainage holes in your basket. Good drainage will prevent fungus growth and rot, the chances of which will already be greatly minimized due to coir’s unique properties. 

You can also use a plastic liner to limit water loss. If you choose to skip this step, make sure to closely monitor the moisture levels so that your plants don’t dry out.

Step 4: Build a Base Layer

Use lightweight potting soil to fill the basket until it’s half full (about 4 to 6 inches above the bottom of the basket). Press the soil against the bottom and the sides of your basket to create a firm foundation. This will make it easier to cut slits for the seedlings. Lightweight soil is ideal for hanging baskets because it ensures that they aren’t too heavy.

Step 5: Plant the Seedlings

Place the seedlings into the slits in the soil. Use a checkerboard pattern to ensure maximum coverage and visibility. Evenly space the seedlings on the bottom row, line with additional soil, and then place another layer of seeds between, not directly above, the ones below. Water the seedlings immediately and check the moisture levels every day.

Coir is an excellent choice for gardening and has become increasingly popular in gardening circles. Its success is due primarily to its natural insect-repellent qualities, moisture-control properties, and environmental benefits. Try using a coir basket or pot liner the next time you plant.