New Grower 1st timer question

[Guerilla Auto]

1st time growing autos. Because of security I had to start all my autos this season in 4 1/2" coir pots. Plan on putting them in the dirt at day 12-13. Can I just plant the pot in the dirt? I hear all this stuff about stunting, cutting the bottom off the container 1st, ect. Advise appreciated..

 

[tommy1984]

If there like the paper/cardboard material pots then you can just plant them and water, they will decompose fairly quick, But I like to split them apart. But what do I know Im still pretty new too... On a side note, Welcome to AFN.. These guys around here are super knowledgeable and willing to help in any way they can.

 

[ACV]

If the pot is easily damaged come planting time breaking it up isnt that big of deal. If the pot is still strong it may restrict root growth restricting plant growth.

 

[BigBuddha]

Hey, GA.


I've grown a fair few autos starting off in coir pots and planting directly into the centre of strong soil. Personally, I've not seen a problem doing this but if others have it's worth bearing that in mind.

Bottom line? It's fine to do it as that's what coir pots are designed for. Is it the best thing possible for getting the least-stressed autos? It depends on the individual plant I suppose. I used the method to avoid burning my younglings in strong soil and to avoid transplant shock, and for that it works pretty well.. but I've since started germing directly into soil with better results.

My only concern with breaking away the coir pot before transplanting is that the roots can already be working their way through the coir, so breaking it away can tear some roots which is definitely best avoided.

 

[Guerilla Auto]

Thanks for the advise guys. I was worrried too about breaking the roots if I cut the bottom off the container.

 

[madmable]

what you can also do is make several small holes in the pot rather than cutting the whole bottom out and disturbing, roots will always find these holes and grow through rooting outside the original container

 

[BigBuddha]

^ Top tip.