Four Tips for Thriving in Hydroponics Growing hydroponically carries several noteworthy benefits. Perhaps the most significant advantage is that hydroponic systems are energy-efficient, since they require less water, pesticides and soil. Growers who wish to produce crops year-round in an environmentally-conscious way would do well to consider a hydroponic system. Growing requirements for hydroponically grown plants can vary depending on the type of plant being grown. However, delivering the proper type and amount of nutrition, water and ventilation helps all hydroponically grown crops thrive. Apply the following four guidelines in order to ensure the utmost efficiency and quality when running a hydroponic system. Deliver the Right Nutrients at the Right Time When it comes to hydroponic nutrition, not all minerals are created equal. Macro nutrients are needed in large quantities and include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur. Micro nutrients – iron, manganese, boron, zinc, copper, molybdenum and chlorine are needed too, but in very small amounts. Some plants may need more nitrogen one week and more phosphorus the next, so staying vigilant of each crop’s unique needs on a weekly basis is essential. For hydroponic growers that are first starting out, it’s wise to use a professional hydroponic nutrient solution instead of mixing plant food at home. Some growers use nutrient additives when they’re eager to improve their results, but it’s best to stick with the three-part nutrients until the crops are doing well. An EC (electrical conductivity) meter or a TDS (total dissolved solids) meter is critical to tracking the strength of a nutrient solution. With hard data about how plants are responding to nutrients, growers can make adjustments to the solution as necessary. After two weeks have passed, the nutrient reservoir should be replenished with fresh water and fresh nutrients. Having two nutrient reservoirs – one designated for nutrient solution and the other filled with regular water for the next nutrient solution change, is a helpful way to maintain this practice. The reservoir containing regular water will get raised to room temperature and have time to de-chlorinate. Having room temperature, de-chlorinated water going into a hydroponic system is a good way to protect roots from potential damage. In addition, be sure to keep nutrient solution between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure proper absorption. If the nutrient solution is below 65 degrees, plants may not drink enough of the water. Warmer than 70 degree temperatures mean the nutrient solution will not hold as much dissolved oxygen. Maintain Water Quality and Quantity Water quality in hydroponics is even more crucial than it is in regular growing methods, since the grow media in hydroponics is stationary. This means that the pH of the water matches the pH of the growing media. Lab analysis of incoming water for hydroponics systems is recommended on an annual basis, if not more frequently. Make sure there is a checklist for pH, EC, alkalinity, chlorine, sodium, key metals and macro and micronutrients. Once the results are obtained, growers can build the proper fertility program. It’s important to continue monitoring the fertilizer and incoming water with a handheld meter, which tests the pH and EC levels. These meters are available