hi
For the first time, you have chosen a very efficient substrate (Coco/Perlite), but it is less forgiving of errors than soil because it is completely inert.
What you describe and what we see in the image — the edges of the leaves curling upwards (the famous “taco” effect) — is a classic red flag.
Here are the main ways to correct the situation:
1. Heat or light stress (Cause #1)
Symptom: When the edges fold upward, it is often because the plant is trying to reduce its surface area to conserve moisture.
Solution: Check the distance from your lamp. If it is too close or too powerful for a young seedling, it causes excessive evapotranspiration. Raise your lamp 10-15 cm and see if the plant relaxes within 24 hours.
2. Relative humidity (VPD) too low
Analysis: Coconut dries quickly on the surface. If the air in your tent is too dry (below 60-70% for a seedling), the leaves will curl up.
Solution: Use a humidity dome (like the bottom of a clear plastic bottle) to keep the air around it moist while it develops more roots.
3. Nutrition and pH in Coco
This is where the “trial and error” often begins:
The pH is vital: In coco, you must water with a pH between 5.8 and 6.0. If your pH is that of tap water (often 7.0), the plant is immediately blocked.
Do not let dry: Unlike soil, coconut should never become completely dry. If it dries, the nutrient salts concentrate and “burn” the roots, which stresses the leaves.
4. Leaf condition
We also notice slight yellowish/light spots on the first layer of leaves. This confirms either the beginnings of light burn or a pH imbalance that prevents the absorption of basic nutrients.
My advice for your first coco grow: First check the heat at the top of the plant (if it's hot for your hand, it's too hot for it). Next, make sure to always give a light nutrient solution with adjusted pH each time you water.
have nice day