Nutrients
Feeding Plants in Solution
Hydroponic plants get all their nutrients from the solution, so the mix matters more than in soil.
Choosing a Fertilizer
Use a fertilizer made for hydroponics. Follow the label for the amount to mix and the stage of growth. Mixing a stronger solution than the label recommends can burn roots and leaves.
Keeping the Solution Fresh
- Top up with fresh water as the plants drink, and keep track of the level.
- Replace the whole solution on a regular schedule, and sooner if it smells, turns cloudy or grows algae.
- Keep the reservoir covered to block light and slow algae.
Signs of Trouble
Yellowing or pale leaves can mean a nutrient is missing or the pH is wrong. Brown leaf tips often point to too much nutrient. See Problems for more.
Next: pH and EC.
