Roots & watering · WITH DIGBY

Why is there a gap between cocopeat and the pot wall?

Inspect whether the gap is a surface feature or a continuous channel down the side. A visible gap does not tell you how wet the centre remains.

Teral grower guidance · Updated 27 October 2026

DigbyYour roots & watering guide

THE COCOPEAT CONNECTION

Why the root zone matters

A changing moisture profile and physical movement can separate the medium from the container. Water may then follow the easier side path instead of wetting the root zone evenly.

01 / OBSERVE

Three checks before you change anything

Check moisture in the centre and near the wall separately.
Observe where water travels during a normal application.
Compare the affected container with one that has stable contact at the wall.

02 / NARROW IT DOWN

How does water move?

Choose the closest observation for a suggested next check.

Mostly down the side gap

Review rewetting and container contact with your adviser. Verify the centre becomes moist rather than judging by immediate drainage.

Evenly through the profile

Record the gap and monitor roots. Appearance alone may not justify disturbing an established plant.

Centre is wet but edge is dry

Investigate local exposure and root distribution. Avoid assuming the entire pot needs a large extra watering.

03 / TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Leave with something useful

Mark affected containers and compare centre-versus-edge moisture over a full day.

Keep in mind

Do not compact wet coir around established roots merely to close a cosmetic gap.

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