Hydroponics has undoubtedly revolutionized the farming industry. It is a process of growing plants without soil.
Studies have shown that an efficient hydroponics system can grow plants and vegetables faster than conventional methods. The plants grown through such methods require less space and have the potential to yield more.
The best part of this system is that it requires 95% less water than conventional gardening methods and does not affect fluctuating environmental conditions. This system is an ideal solution for people who are planning to reap the benefits of a new-fangled planting.
But hydroponic gardening can get complex and challenging. Thus, if you are planning to explore hydroponic gardening, here are some tips to maximize the system’s efficiency. Read on to learn more about them.
Ensure water quality
According to industry experts, it is crucial for the growers to test the quality of their water supply before using it in the system. Regardless of the plant type, a good quality water supply is required to ensure their health and sustainability. Poor quality or hard water has high mineral content that does not allow the nutrients to dissolve effectively. Thereby, investing in a water filter system can help you introduce a quality water supply in the hydroponic system.
This means that you need to keep track of the pH levels and temperature of the water supply. The pH level of the water you are going to use should normally range between 5.5 and 6.5. Apart from this, the water temperature should range between 68 to 72° F. You can also use water chillers and heaters to maintain the temperature of your water supply.
Use enough light
Lighting plays an integral part in ensuring the efficiency of the hydroponics system. Using the best lighting fixtures in hydroponics can help in providing a perfect working environment, maximizing your chances of a better harvest. Experts suggest installing cool white or full-spectrum fluorescents, especially for new growers.
In fact, if you are planning to grow larger plants, using a high-powered metal halide bulb is your best option. Such fixtures are often used for plants that require a lot of light, such as tomatoes and pepper plants. Additionally, they consume less energy by producing high-output fluorescent light with less heat.
Maintain the ideal temperature
The hydropic system requires ideal temperature and humidity levels to work efficiently. High temperatures often deteriorate the quality of the plants, leaving them to rot. To avoid this, make sure the temperature of the grow room ranges between 68 to 70 degrees.
Additionally, you would need to keep the humidity levels ranging from 40% to 60%. Fluctuating humidity levels and poor air circulation in grow rooms promote mold, mildew growth, and other fungal problems. You can also consider using a dehumidifier to adjust the room’s relative humidity.
That’s a wrap
Just by ensuring a good quality water supply and maintaining an ideal environment in grow rooms, you can maximize the effectiveness of the hydroponics system. So, use the tips mentioned above to reap the benefits, thereafter.
