Coir or no coir

[juper]

Hi everybody,

I was wondering if anyone has been successful in using coir in their cactus mix (10-20%) for outdoor landscaping? Some believe that it does retain a lot of moisture, thus, detrimental to roots in areas with winter rains (i.e. 9a/9b); others state that the addition of coir is beneficial to soil composition because of it's richness in micronutrients; low compaction rate, it's anit-fungal properties and other attributes.
I have posted this question on other boards; and have gotten differing views on the subject. Let me know if any of you have a strong opinion either way. thx

[Steve Steward]

I have tried out coir a few times for various things. I do like that it is more 'sterile' than peat, and does not seem to green up as fast. It is also more pH balanced than peat; peat being more acidic. In the end though, if it's an outdoor suitable potted plant, or nursery stock, I don't use it much in my mixes. Part of that is cost. I do use it in my seed starting mix though.

[juper]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Steve.