If you consider it, that argument can be applied to
your hydroponic nutrient solution, except it’s the
nutrient concentration and pH you’re constantly
fiddling with. And just like in the choke example, if
the grower isn’t able to actively monitor and precisely regulate those variables then he or she won’t
realize their plant’s full potential. So why not let a
computer do the hard work?
Getting It Under Control
Would anyone really complain if they were told
that they never had to feed their plants anymore?
Like most people living today, I’ve got things to do!
Probably the most compelling reason to embrace
computer-controlled nutrient delivery is simply for
the convenience.
Every time I have to feed my pants I almost invariably make a mess, I’m usually tripping over electrical cords and hoses in the process, and when the
stars and moons are in perfect alignment I’ll get the
nutrient concentration and pH around where I need
it on the first try. And then I can’t forget to rinse
all of the measuring cups and other vessels out or
else the next time I use them they’re going to be a
crusty, salty mess.
Letting a computer handle nutrient delivery and
pH adjustments provides a most welcome break
from feeding duties, but there are also measurable advantages in letting a computer perfectly
maintain your nutrient solution.
•
(Cont.d from ABOVE)
How do you feel when you miss breakfast one day? Not great? Well when nutritional requirements
aren’t available to your plants they become physiologically stressed in much the same way people do.
This can happen if nutrients aren’t being actively replenished as they consumed by the plant, and also
when the pH drifts up or down enough to lockout particular micro-nutrients.
In 1990 Cornell University constructed what they call their “Controlled Environment Agriculture”
facility to help students and researchers understand how a given environment affects plant growth,
including nutrient solution management.
Their conclusion? >>>
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