How much nutrients to use in a hydroponics system?
There is no question that hydroponics is a good alternative to growing plants in an outdoor soil based garden. However, it takes more than basic knowledge to growing hydroponically. Items such as the appropriate amount and feeding of hydroponics nutrients should also be taken into consideration. If you are new to hydroponics, you may have be consumed with researching whether or not you are feeding the proper amount of nutrients to your deep water culture hydroponic system.
The point here is to keep the balance of nutrients as it is very important in the promotion of proper development and growth as your plants enter the various growth phases. The first thing you can do is either purchase a quick start nutrient kit and identify the type of nutrients that your plants are already receiving. Oxygen and carbon are among the essential hydroponics nutrients needed for vegetation; however, they are generally supplied naturally through water and air, and absorbed through the plant’s roots. Therefore, you no longer have to include them in your list of nutrients that you will be feeding to your plants since in a deep water culture hydroponic system, your oxygen is supplied by an air pump and you are growing the plants in a large water supply. This leaves the nutrients needed to feed your plants during the growth phases. Many company’s make liquid nutrients and plant food, however we recommend a liquid nutrient made for growing plants hydroponically (here is one we tried and like).
Familiarize Yourself with Hydroponics Nutrients
The basic hydroponics nutrients that should be included in your list include potassium sulphate, calcium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate, potassium nitrate, as well as magnesium sulphate. Sulfur and nitrogen are very important in the overall supply of proteins and amino acids. Phosphorus is very important in the overall growth and photosynthesis of plants. Magnesium and potassium serve as catalysts in the production of sugars and starch. Nitrogen and magnesium play a very important role in chlorophyll production. And of course, calcium contributes to the strength of the cell walls of the plants, boosting its overall growth. Or, simply purchase a starter kit and enjoy watching your plants grow — fast!
The amount of hydroponics nutrients that you will be feeding your water culture highly depends on the type of plant that you will be planting in a hydroponic system. While you can mix the nutrients on your own, the safest way to go is by purchasing pre-mixed nutrient solutions that are available in local garden shops or in our hydroponic nutrients for sale online.
The good thing about these nutrient solutions is that the amount of hydroponics nutrients are already pre-calculated in order to suit the needs of the plants that you are trying to grow. With expert advice from a local gardener, you do not have to worry about being a newbie in this field and there are many guides that you can read or simply purchase some liquid nutrients and read the label – it can be that easy.