As we have completely eliminated peat from our seed starting and growing (see more about that in this post), we had to seek out an alternative (previously we were using the Vermont Compost Company's Fort Vee mix to soil block). This led us to develop a couple of recipes.
While we still strongly feel that coconut coir is a better alternative to the peat, there are still questions as to its sustainability. We are currently experimenting with using 100% homemade compost, pulverized in a food processor and sifted, for a completely sustainable and closed loop way of starting seeds. However, as we are still testing this, we aren't ready quite yet to recommend it! Alternatively, we have found this recipe which uses ingredients readily found at most local garden centers (or marijuana grow stores):
4 PARTS coco loco potting soil (from Fox Farms), sifted to remove chunks
1.5 PARTS coconut coir (if buying in blocks, rehydrate with water before measuring)
0.5 PARTS greensand (mineral sediment)
1 SCOOP granular mycorrhizae like Dr. Earth Organics
Mix together and add approximately 2 parts water to desired consistency.
For more information on soil blocking, check out our in depth videos on YouTube here!
PART ONE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_mRges0q-A&t=1382s
PART TWO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZP0wpPdkrc&t=0s
