Hydroponic crop production on any scale is a precise science. You will be able to work out to the last cent what you will need to purchase to ensure good results. At any garden centre where hydroponic supplies are sold, you will be able to draw on the knowledge and expertise of the staff to make sure you are buying the right products for the plants you plan to grow.
Apart from the seeds or seedlings you buy, there are a number of items you will need, namely containers in which to grow the plants, water distribution pipes, growing medium (unless you are planning a medium-free system) and, of course, nutrients. Let us discuss each of these in turn.
Containers
A very popular container is a plastic pipe that has been cut vertically down the middle. It can be as long as 50 metres long. It creates a wonderful trough that you can fill with your medium. It is waterproof so you will not lose any precious water. Other popular containers include growing bags and perlite boxes. Both of these types tend to retain water so you need to include that fact in your calculations of your plants’ water requirements.
Water distribution pipes
Apart from sunlight or indoor garden lamps, the availability of clean water is the most important factor for guaranteeing healthy plants. You may need a filtration system, and you definitely will need drip pipes for watering your hydroponics garden. An expert in hydroponic supplies can tell you more about this important matter.
Growing medium
There is a wide variety of growing media available including
• gravel
• sand
• wood chips
• Rockwool
• Perlite
• coco coir
Bear in mind that gravel and sand can be extremely heavy to transport and carry, particularly in large quantities. Coco coir is plentiful, cheap, lightweight and clean, making it a firm favourite.
Nutrients
Hydroponic nutrients fall into three categories: primary, secondary and trace nutrients. Every crop requires different combinations of these, which are easily administered when dissolved in water.
The primary nutrients are potassium, calcium and nitrogen. These are found in the greatest concentrations in all plants. The secondary nutrients are phosphorous and magnesium.
Finally there are the trace elements which are found in extremely small quantities. However, they should not be discounted. They are important hydroponic nutrients and their absence could cause a plant’s foliage, fruit and flowers to be sub-standard. Among the trace nutrients are iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron and molybdenum.
February 2nd, 2012
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