Why are nutrients important?
All plants require essential minerals for healthy growth. A Hydroponic system usually contains little or no minerals. This must be supplied by you in the form of a nutrient solution.
What’s the pH level?
The pH level is the measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a nutrient solution. A pH value of 0-6 indicates the nutrient solution is acidic, 8-14 alkaline. While a reading of 7 shows the nutrient solution is neutral. Most plants prefer a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Why is the pH factor level important?
The pH factor determines how well the roots of a plant can absorb the available nutrients in a solution. Maintaining a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5 contributes to optimal nutrient uptake. This can encourage growth.
How do I measure the pH level of my nutrient solution?
This can be tested with a basic pH kit. All pH kits should come with an indicator fluid and colour chart. Collect a small sample of your solution and add the correct amount of indicator fluid. Check the colour your solution turns against the colour chart. This'll give you an approximate reading.
You can also use an electronic meter. To use, simply immerse the electronic meters into the nutrient solution. The meter will provide you with an almost instant pH value in the LCD.
How often should I adjust the pH level of my nutrient solution?
When you need too. That’s why it’s important to regularly check the pH level of your nutrient solution. Only change the solution if the pH level falls below 5.5 or exceeds 6.5.
How do I measure the strength of my nutrient solution?
Measure the strength of your nutrient solution with a Conductivity Factor (CF) or Electrical Conductivity (EC) meter. The higher the number, the stronger the nutrient solution is.
What’s Conductivity Factor (CF)/Electrical Conductivity (EC)?
CF/EC is a measure of the total dissolved salts in a hydroponic solution. The CF/EC value will give you an indication of the overall nutrient strength in a solution. The required strength will vary according to growth stage and plant species.
How often should I check the pH level and Conductivity Factor/ Electrical Conductivity (CF/EC)?
Ideally, you should check pH and CF/EC on a daily basis. If not, then at least once a week.
What temperature should the water in my system be?
An ideal water temperature will range between 20-24 oC. Cold water retains more oxygen than warm water. However, if the water in your system is too cold, the roots will be able unable to absorb the nutrients a plant requires. It’s, therefore, vital to maintain a happy balance.
Why should I use an air pump?
An air pump will ensure that your plants have access to plenty of oxygen. The roots of a plant need oxygen to absorb water and nutrients.
What’s the difference between soft water and hard water?
Soft water originates from granite and other impermeable rock. While hard water derives from chalk and limestone. The hardness of water represents the total concentration of calcium and magnesium in a nutrient solution.
Is a one part nutrient solution better than a two part nutrient solution?
It has been the goal of most nutrient manufacturers to produce a one part nutrient solution. This is because a one part nutrient solution removes the chance of incorrectly measuring the separate components of a two part nutrient solution.