Throughout our many years in the Hydroponic business we have come across many varied  and  interesting questions regarding techniques and tips on plant growth.

It is you , the customer, who supply the many questions, and even some of the answers.

It is in our own interest to attempt to find answers to the questions.

We will be posting some of the more frequently asked questions here in the hope they will

assist and inform others.

Some of the answers given to the following questions are not necessarily everyone’s opinion. These answers are just a generalisation and not a hard and fast rule. 

Question 1 :

                   What is the best way to deal with spidermites. ?

                   The use of predators is always a good solution. These are introduced to your plants whereupon they will attack and consume the mites. Once all the mites have gone, the predators then consume each other cannibal style.This is not a suitable method during the plants flowering phase as this mimics  Autumn/Winter period whereupon the predators will go into hibernation.

 The most recent effective method is spidermite control.This can be applied as a safe non-toxic spray and can be used at all stages of your plants growth, up to 14 days into the flowering phase.

Question 2 :  

                         How do I prevent and control Pythium. ?

                   Prevention..  Keep your grow system absolutely clean. Treating the incoming

water against this fungal infection should be at the forefront of every growers mind . A clean and well maintained growing system will combat the infection.

You can create a balanced Eco - system by applying beneficial bacteria throughout the whole cycle of your plants. This will put the beneficial bacteria around the root-zone, which in turn help prevent any other non beneficial bacteria from prolifferating and causing any harm to your roots.

If growing Hydroponically, it is advisable to change your nutrient  solution completely once a week. It is also reccomended, if growing in Rockwool slabs to use one of the many Enzyme preparations to break down any waste organic matter that Pythium will use as food. It is not reccomended to use liquid oxygen alongside these as it will kill the live bacteria.

                   Control.. There are a number of additives on the market which will eliminate this problem and limit the risk of fungal infection. Ultimately the systematic cleaning of your system is paramount.

Question 3 : 

                       What is the best conditions for rooting. ?

                      Firstly , the ideal temperature is around  23°C and 28°C and best supplied from underneath , a good way to do this is with a heated propagator. The temperature needs to remain constant throughout which will encourage root cell initiation.

                     Secondly, the humidity is very important as the little plants have no roots to begin with and maintaining high humidity around the leaves to protect them from wilting until new roots appear. A mini greenhouse effect is ideal, such as a covered propagator. Regular misting is also very helpful for the young plants. 

                     Finally, light is essential to the young plants from day one. Some form of filtered sunlight is fine, however the use of fluorescent horticultural lighting is recommended . Light should be applied for at least 16hrs a day.

Question 4 :

                     Is hydroponic produce as healthy and nutritious as soil grown   

                     food ?

                     Hydroponic produce can be every bit as good. Hydroponic nutrient solution are blended from mineral salts and are formulated to contain all the mineral elements required for plant growth. Green plants can only take up elements and are exactly the same whether from manure or nutrient solution. 

Some recent research has confirmed that the food value of Hydroponic produce is at least as high as the soil-grown alternative, and in some cases  far superior.

In Australia,Hydroponic food stuffs command a higher retail price.

Question 5 :

                         How do I measure pH in my system ?

                     This can be done with a meter, but there are various kits using liquids and paper. These kits are adequate for systems such as pot culture, whereupon the nutrient is added to the plants Once and is used up before re-filling.

 Using the re-circulation systems such as NFT or Ebb and Flow may require a meter to monitor their solution regularly.

Over correction of Ph can be counter productive ( stressing the plant ), A wandering Ph between 5.5 - 6.5 in Hydroponics should not necessarily need correcting.

Question 6:

                 What different type of systems are there ?

                    There are many types of growing systems available in todays market place. Here are just a few to mention.

                                    1: Aeroponics.

                                    2: Ebb and Flow.

                                    3: Flood and drain.

                                    4: N.F.T.

                                    5: Deep water culture.

 It is the growers choice to choose the best and most practicable system to meet their needs.