Effects of Calcium Nitrate Levels and Soaking Durations on Cocopeat Nutrient Content

Cocopeat, a by-product of the coconut (Cocos nucifera L.), is an important soilless media that contains high potassium (K), sodium (Na), and electrical conductivity (EC) depending on its source. Methods for extracting these elements thus lowering EC are yet to be standardized. This study was therefore carried out investigate two extraction methods in cocopeat. A greenhouse pot experiment at Climate Water Smart Agriculture Centre Egerton University, Kenya. It laid 5 × 4 factorial completely randomized design. Five soaking durations (12, 24, 36, 48, 72 hours) four calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2) levels (0, 60, 100, 150 g) were used. The done folds: leachate treated cocopeat examination their chemical properties. General Linear Model procedures used Analysis Variance (P ≤ 0.05). results showed addition Ca(NO3)2 100 g extracted significantly more K Na than 0.0 60 g. increased with application while pH reducing. In cocopeat, duration 36 hours reduced sufficiently supplemented Ca N. Irrespective durations, after washed, values fall within suitable ranges. There strong negative correlation between Na, K, EC. Also, positive N Effective supplementation N, optimal reduction by 78.44% 92%, respectively can achieved 1.5 kg-1 15 liters water hours.