There are often times when a few pointers can help us ensure that our hydroponic vegetable gardens are doing as well as they can be. The following is a list of tips that should assist you in your endeavors.
1. Refer to this previous blog article about nutrient deficiencies and be sure to keep up with proper nutrients for the plants.
2. Maintain a steady water temperature for your nutrient solution. The temperature affects how the plant absorbs nutrients. Ideally the system should be kept at room temperature.
3. Be sure to let your water stand overnight or use a water filter to remove chemical impurities, such as chlorine and chloramine, from the water before using it to mix the nutrient solution.
4. Check the pH levels of your nutrient solution frequently. Remember that the ideal pH is between 5.5 and 6.5 and that excessive ranges on either end can burn and kill your plants.
5. Use a TDS meter to check the total dissolved solids in the nutrient solution. Refer to the nutrient solution’s manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the solution was mixed properly.
6. Hydroponic systems that aren’t using sunlight should purchase new bulbs every 8-12 months depending on the bulb type. Most bulbs lose efficiency as they age and gradually shift in color spectrum. This will result in your plants not obtaining the right colors of light and not growing to their fullest.
7. Be sure to use a ground fault indicator on the circuit in which you have your submersible pump and/or timers connected. Water and electricity seldom mix.
8. If your air or water pumps have user serviceable parts, be sure to service them periodically. Simple upkeep every so often may prevent a costly repair or replacement bill.
Check back next time to learn more about hydroponic vegetable gardening.
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