I just went down to the local PetCo to pick up some bricks of coir. (I rarely use the stuff) I got 3 bricks for $13, way more than it should cost IMO. But sitting on the shelf next to it was this product: "Alfalfa Meal" Im trying to picture what that product is. Im envisioning the coarser stem portions of the plant, though Im not sure. The thing is though is that it was cheaper than coir. Being pelletized I think it would be easier to work with as well. But that doesnt mean it will work. Has anyone tried this stuff? Heard of it used? Maybe alfalfa isnt a good sub at all. On another note, I discovered today that not all coir bricks are created equal. When I use it I usually use a brand by the name of "Planters Pride". Ive had a slew of these laying around that I traded for a couple of years back. Today I picked up some of the Eco Earth brand. Usually I toss a couple of bricks in a 5 gallon bucked with some water in it and let them expand, then adjust the moisture by adding manure and verm. Today I discovered that the Eco Earth bricks are significantly more dense. I put two bricks in the bucket like I usually do, and they are still expanding. Much larger result than what I am used to. Ive got more substrate in the works right now than I anticipated. Looks like Ill be freezing some substrate bags for the next grow.
I've heard of it being used as a supplement but I think its too rich in nitrogen for a straight bulk substrate
It will burn up your mycelium. Too much nitrogen that is. Not sure if the alfalfa pellets will, you would have to do a small grow to find out on that stuff.
the price you got is 3 dlls above of what usually the pack is in my local california petco i dont buy it anymore though , got me some 5 kg bales at the hydro store
I should check the local hydro store. I went in there once to see what they had, but since I dont grow weed I havent been back. I should pay them a visit.
If you want coir, search amazon.Also, local landscape supply stores often have large inexpensive bricks of coir. 2.5kg of coir for $14 at the landscape supply near me.
Dont you guys have bricks of this at your local hardware store ,in the gardening section ? Its getting more and more common.You could do an online search before going.
I typically buy my coconut coir at the local plant nursery. It supposedly expands to 4.3cuft and costs me $19. It is wholesaled via Down to Earth, here in Oregon Can't recall the dry weight off-hand.
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=6494 $3.39 for a 3 pack. Hard to beat. Free shipping over $50.
