DISINFECT NUTRIENT SOLUTION
With hydroponic nutrient solutions acting as a conduit for pathogens , growers need to safely disinfect their systems . Dr . Lynette Morgan examines several ways to disinfect nutrient solution while explaining the pros and cons of each .
by Dr . Lynette Morgan
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Concern that hydroponic nutrient solution could be a vector for root rot pathogens has been around since the early days of hydroponics . Recirculating systems , as much as they conserve water and nutrients , have come under the spotlight as a means for transmission of the dreaded Pythium pathogen and a whole host of others . However , treatments and techniques for preventing and controlling such scourges have flourished within the hydroponic industry and growers both small and large have a range of options when it comes to solution disinfection methods . While slapping on the latest gadget or dosing up the reservoir may seem like a great solution , many of the disinfection methods commonly used in hydroponics are not as straight forward as we would like to think . The nutrient solution in a recirculating system , and within the crop root zone , is a carefully balanced environment or ecosystem made up of live plant roots , organic material , diverse microbial populations , nutrients , moisture , and gasses , such as oxygen , required for root respiration . Within a healthy root zone , a balance usually exists where beneficial microbes outnumber and out-compete any pathogens that may find their way into the nutrient solution or substrate . This balance is the ideal situation in a hydroponic system as many beneficial microbes not only have the potential to suppress disease but may have other growth-promoting effects as well . However , from time to time , root pathogen outbreaks may occur , and prevention of such issues is generally far more effective than any type of control measure .
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