Growing Medium
Soil vs Coco Coir for Cannabis
Comparing the two most popular growing mediums for home cannabis cultivation
Our Pick:FoxFarm Ocean Forest (Soil)— For beginners, soil is more forgiving and requires less precise feeding - you can focus on learning to grow
The "soil vs coco" debate is one of the oldest in cannabis growing. Soil is traditional and forgiving; coco coir offers more control and faster growth. Both can produce excellent results, but they suit different growing styles and experience levels.
FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil
4.7
$18.99/bag
First-time growers who want simplicity
Check Price on AmazonCanna Coco Professional Plus
4.6
$24.99/bag
Growers ready for more hands-on control
Check Price on AmazonSpecifications Comparison
| Specification | Soil (FoxFarm OF) | Coco Coir (Canna) |
|---|---|---|
| Medium Type | Organic soil blend | Processed coconut fiber |
| Built-in Nutrients | 3-4 weeks built-in | None - must add |
| Target pH Range | 6.3-6.8 (adjusted) | 5.5-6.5 (must maintain) |
| Watering Frequency | Every 2-4 days | Daily or more |
| When to Feed | Start week 4-5 | From day 1 |
| Reusable | Yes, with amendments | Yes, easily |
| Difficulty Level | Easy | Moderate |
| Yield Potential | Good | Higher potential |
Pros & Cons
Soil (FoxFarm OF)
Pros
- Forgiving of mistakes
- Nutrients included for first month
- Natural buffer against pH swings
- Water less frequently
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Slower growth than coco
- Can attract pests (fungus gnats)
- Heavier to move
- Less control over nutrients
Coco Coir (Canna)
Pros
- Faster vegetative growth
- Better aeration for roots
- Full control over nutrients
- Higher yield potential
- Lighter weight
- Harder to overwater
Cons
- Requires daily attention
- Must feed from day 1
- Needs CalMag supplement
- pH management critical
- Steeper learning curve
The Verdict
For your first grow, we strongly recommend soil (specifically FoxFarm Ocean Forest). It's forgiving, has built-in nutrients, and lets you focus on learning the plant rather than perfecting your feeding schedule. Once you've completed a successful soil grow and want more control, coco coir is an excellent next step that can deliver faster growth and bigger yields—but it requires more attention and precision.
Soil (FoxFarm OF)
$18.99/bag
Buy Now
Coco Coir (Canna)
$24.99/bag
Buy Now