3 Tips That Will Help You Grow Healthy Hydroponic Plants
Hydroponic plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water system which, at its best, produces great yields at a relatively inexpensive price. However, to get the most out of your hydroponic plants, you'll need to ensure you take the right steps to keep them healthy. Follow these four tips to keep your plants at their best.
1. Keep balanced pH levels
A hydroponic system needs balanced pH levels because acidity and alkalinity affect the nutrients your plants can get. A pH of 7 is neutral, less than 7 is acidic, and over 7 is alkaline. For the healthiest plants, your water supply should typically have a pH level roughly between 5.5 and 6.5, but some specialist plants may have slightly different requirements, so don't hesitate to ask your hydroponics store for specific advice. You can test the pH of your water by dipping inexpensive pH strips into a sample of water. If the levels are wrong, pick up some pH adjustment solution from your hydroponics nutrient provider to add more acidity or alkalinity. Just be careful not to over-adjust, as this may lead to nutrient deficiencies.
2. Ensure consistent cleaning
A hydroponic system tends to produce more waste than an outdoor garden. It is very important to regularly clean your system because a dirty system can lead to bacteria, fungi and algae growth. If you see green fuzz in your reservoir, for example, this is algae, and it needs immediate attention before it starts growing out of control. Algae growth can cause a lot of problems, including nutrient imbalances and even plant death. The same goes for various types of bacteria and fungi, which can cause plant illnesses and rot.
3. Use a fertigation system
A fertigation system provides water and nutrients to plants. There are a few different ways to set up a fertigation system, but the most common is by using two reservoirs. One reservoir is used for the nutrient solution and another is used for the hydroponic solution. Nutrient solutions vary greatly depending on what you're growing, but most use inorganic materials such as peat moss and vermiculite, which have a high concentration of nutrients. Providing the right amount of water and nutrients to your plants will be one of the most important steps of your job as a plant grower, and a fertigation system will make everything that much easier for you and better for your plants.
Contact a hydroponic shop in your area to learn more.
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