Maximum Yield USA October 2016 | Page 50

YOU WANT WET PLANTS, NOT SOAKED PLANTS F or many growers, both new and experienced, irrigation control and scheduling in substrate-based systems is often one of the most confusing aspects of hydroponics. Frequency, volume, duration, programming and timing of nutrient solution application can seem daunting at first, and the fact that irrigation requirements change throughout the growing process seems to make this even more complex. Fortunately, many of the substrates available these days are somewhat forgiving of minor irrigation errors. However, maximizing growth and minimizing root problems depends on a certain moisture balance being established and maintained. “ Many of the substrates available these days are somewhat forgiving of minor irrigation errors.” Irrigation scheduling needs to be matched to a pla