Hydroponics is an innovative method of growing plants without soil that is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners and farmers. This method offers a convenient way to provide plants with everything they need to grow and develop. A key aspect of marijuana hydroponics is fertilizer, which provides the plants with the nutrients they need. In this article, we'll take a look at different types of hydroponic fertilizers, explore the possibility of making your own fertilizer, and show you how to fertilize hydroponic plants.
Why use hydroponic fertilizers?
Hydroponics offers a unique approach to growing plants, and nutrients play a key role in this process. The main benefits of using special fertilizers for hydroponics are:
- Precise Nutrient Control: In hydroponics, you can precisely control the amount and type of nutrients your plants receive, allowing them to grow in optimal conditions.
- Soilless Growing: Hydroponics does not require the use of soil, which prevents soil diseases and simplifies the process of plant care.
- Efficient use of water: Hydroponics uses water more efficiently because plants get exactly the amount of moisture they need.
- Increased Yields: By optimizing plant growth conditions, hydroponics produces higher yields than traditional growing methods.
Types of fertilizers for hydroponics
- Mineral fertilizers
Mineral fertilizers for marijuana and other plants form the basis for most hydroponic systems. They contain key macro and micronutrients that plants need for healthy growth. The composition of such fertilizers includes nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and other important elements.
- Organic fertilizers
Organic fertilizers in hydroponics are biodegradable substances such as compost, organic extracts, manure, etc. They allow you to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly system for growing plants.
- Synthetic fertilizers
Synthetic fertilizers are specially designed for hydroponic growing of plants. They provide precise control over nutrient content and are often used in commercial hydroponic systems.
- Combined fertilizers
Combination fertilizers combine the benefits of mineral and organic fertilizers to provide optimal nutrition for hydroponic plants.
How to fertilize hydroponics?
- Correct proportions
Fertilizers should be carefully measured and mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid oversupply or undernutrition.
- Monitor pH
Remember that the pH of the solution affects the availability of nutrients. Control the pH level to ensure optimal plant nutrition.
- Focus on plant growth
Track the growth and general health of your plants. This will help determine if additional fertilizer or dosage adjustments are needed.
- Regular mortar changes
Regularly change the nutrient solution in your hydroponic system to provide your plants with fresh nutrients.
Types of own fertilizers for hydroponics
You can create your own hydroponic fertilizer for marijuana or any other plant using available materials. Here are some ideas:
- Tea compost
Use used tea leaves and other organic waste to create compost rich in micro-organisms and nutrients. This is a great way to enrich your hydroponic system.
- Banana fermented solution
Bananas are rich in potassium, which is good for plant growth. Try mixing ripe bananas with water and let this solution ferment for a few days. Use the resulting solution as fertilizer for hydroponic plants.
- Egg and Bone Meal
Get eggshells and bonemeal from food scraps. After grinding them into a powder, add to the solution in your hydroponics system to provide the plants with calcium and phosphorus.
- Magnesium Epsomite
Epsom salt contains magnesium, which promotes plant growth. Dissolve epsomite in water and apply in a hydroponics system.
- Banana Peel Powder
Dry banana peel, grind it into a powder and use it as a source of potassium and phosphorus for plants.
How to make fertilizer for hydroponics with your own hands?
Step 1
Choose your nutrient sources. Use available organic waste such as leftover fruit vegetables, coffee grounds, egg shells, etc. You can also use mineral ingredients such as Epsom salt or other mineral supplements.
Step 2
Prepare the fertilizer. For organic fertilizers, mix selected waste and leave it for composting. For mineral fertilizers, properly measure and mix mineral additives with water.
Step 3
Apply fertilizer to the hydroponic system. Follow instructions for applying fertilizer. Typically, fertilizer is added to a nutrient solution that is then fed to the roots of plants.
Buying ready-made fertilizers for hydroponics
If you don't want to make your own marijuana fertilizers, you can always buy hydroponic fertilizers from various manufacturers in various variations . When buying fertilizers, pay attention to the composition, recommendations for use, as well as the reputation of the manufacturer.
Conclusions
Hydroponics offers unique possibilities for growing plants without soil. However, successful cultivation depends on the right approach to fertilizers. You can use different types of fertilizers: mineral, organic, synthetic and combined. Making your own fertilizer is a great option for those who are looking for a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach, or who have not yet chosen their trusted manufacturer. Don't forget to monitor pH-level and the condition of your plants to ensure they are optimally nourished and thrive in your hydroponic system.
* We remind you that sowing cannabis seeds in Ukraine is prohibited, use your knowledge for legal purposes in the country where you are. The material is scientifically fact-finding.
