ASK The Experts
Dear Maximum Yield,
I just purchased my
first condo and I am
considering starting an
indoor garden in the
small spare room. I want
to grow three tomato
plants. What kind of
equipment and space
requirements do you think
I need for this purpose?
Thank you!
- Jessie
Dear Jessie,
It’s a good idea to start small with your first indoor garden and
gradually increase in size as you gain experience. Three tomato plants
would be a good place to start. With the correct level of lighting, three
indeterminate tomato plants require around 15 to16 sq. ft., which gives
sufficient space for you to access the plants and allows for good air flow
up and under the foliage that is required for temperature control, good
plant growth and disease prevention.
There are two factors to consider when planning an indoor garden:
the environment and the hydroponic system. The environment in the
room needs to be modified for plant growth—air must be vented in
and out of the indoor garden on a frequent basis to remove humidity
(plants release a lot of water vapor) and to supply fresh CO2 for photosynthesis. Tomato plants have a high light requirement, particularly
if you want fruit with good sugar levels, and one of the biggest mistakes made by first-time indoor gardeners is underestimating lighting
or overcrowding their plants so that insufficient light is received for
optimal yields. Use HID lighting; two 250-W HPS lamps with timers on
an 18- hour day length would be sufficient. Take care that heat output
from the lamps doesn’t overheat the room or burn the plants.
Hydroponic systems for tomatoes are diverse. It is best to choose
one that is recirculating and self-contained to avoid leaks. A waterproof floor surface is also advisable. There are many small set-ups on
the market that would be suitable for three tomato plants. Tomatoes
develop a large root system, so choose a system that has a good-sized
rooting volume designed for fruiting plants rather than smaller crops
such as lettuce or herbs. You will also need a supply of hydroponic
nutrients and monitoring equipment (EC or TDS and pH meter).
Finally, the room needs temperature control. Tomatoes grow best
at 75 to 82°F by day and 69 to 73°F by night (the day/night temperature difference is essential for strong flowering and fruiting)
so heating and cooling in the room must be able to provide this.
Hydroponic retailers and suppliers will be able to provide you with
a wealth of equipment options and advice on setting up your first
system, so check out all the options before deciding which best suits
your indoor space. Good luck!
Lynette Morgan
Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort. Tech. degree and a
PhD in hydroponic greenhouse production from Massey
University, New Zealand. A partner with SUNTEC
International Hydroponic Consultants, Lynette is involved
in remote and on-site consultancy services for new and
existing commercial greenhouse growers worldwide as well as
research trials and product development for manufacturers
of hydroponic products. Lynette authors five hydroponic
technical books. Visit www.suntec.co.nz/consultants.htm
and www.suntec.co.nz/books.htm for more information.
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Maximum Yield USA | February 2014