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Trials over two years aimed to characterize the physico-chemical properties and high-temperature responses of ecologically sound untreated organic substrates coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) coir and carbonated rice husk in relation to that of rockwool using tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) as a test crop. In all substrates, water-filled pore space and water holding capacities were larger and air filled pore space was smaller. Bulk densities, water holding capacity and water-filled, air-filled and total pore spaces were lower in carbonated rice husk than coconut coir and rock wool. These values in coconut coir and carbonated rice husk were much increased with use. Most of the chemical properties, namely cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, pH, nitrate-N, P, K, Ca and Mg of these substrates were within recommended levels as growing media. There were no significant differences in plant height, stem …