“
The use of a slow sand filter system for
disease suppression and inoculation with
beneficial microbes is one of the most effective
ways of obtaining a diverse population of
BENEFICIAL MICROFLORA.”
While inoculation with commercial microbial mixes are
a great step forward for soilless growers, these may not
always result in a large and diverse microfloral population.
Several issues and environmental effects can restrict, delay,
and prevent colonization by this method. The presence of a
sufficient carbon food source, correct environmental conditions,
and competition from any pre-existing microbes can all limit
the inoculation process. For this reason, regular addition of
microbe mixes can assist and using as diverse a range of
species as possible can help with establishment.
Maintaining diversity of beneficial microbial life in the
rhizosphere of hydroponic plants may seem a rather difficult task
as the presence or absence of these can’t be seen to be checked
and adjusted. However, a basic understanding and a little
consideration for what can’t be observed, but may be occurring
in the rhizosphere, can go a long way to getting that high-
yielding, healthy, and problem-free crop everyone aspires to.
54
Maximum Yield
Hydroponic strawberries inoculated with certain rhizobacteria showed an
increased sweetness index and concentration of micronutrients.