If you are beginner in hydroponics, here are the 3 best hydroponic nutrient solution for vegetables.
If we give the plant what it needs, when it needs it, in the right amount, the plant will probably be healthy and productive according to its genetics.
Chiefly, there are 16-17 hydroponic nutrients. The elements C, H and O represent approximately 90% of the dry weight of the plants. Likewise, the elements K, Mg, Zn, Mo are enzyme activators. P and Fe are responsible for energy transfer reactions. And so on.
Emphatically, there are no absolute recipes for hydroponic nutrients that guarantee effective growth. The truth is that each person must observe, test and adjust to achieve the right balance between composition and use, depending on the plant species.
Best Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions:
General Hydroponics
This hydroponic nutrient solution contains 3 bottles: Grow, Bloom and Micro with the primary and secondary micronutrients so that you mix them in such a way that the plants obtain all the minerals, therefore, the best results.
Pros
- Ideal for beginners.
Cons
- Often ineffective on a commercial scale.
Best Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions
Cronk Nutrients
It uses the right proportions of potassium and phosphorus to increase the yield of your crops, and the formula is ideal for all types of growing environments, such as indoor, outdoor, soil, hydroponic systems.
Moreover, this fertilizer is proven to solidify buds, it contains all of the building blocks for big buds to thrive.
Pros
- Good results.
- Easy instructions.
- Very versatile.
Cons
- Price.
Best Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions:
Monkey Juice
This hydroponics fertilizer helps to break down organic matter into nutrients that can be directly absorbed by the roots of your plants, thus helping to maintain good plant health, support organic growth and stimulate fruit formation.
Pros
- Top quality ingredients.
- For many crops.
Cons
- Instructions are too small to read.
Best Hydroponic Nutrients Kits: General information
How Often Should You Change the hydroponic nutrient solution?
The frequency for changing the hydroponic nutrient solution is based on the number of plants and their size, volume of solution, among other factors. Generally, it is every 2-3 weeks.
Similarly, when there are drastic changes in pH. Also, it is important that you measure the pH and EC prior to changing the hydroponic solution.
Temperature Control
Overall, hydroponic plants have higher nutritional requirements in the colder months, therefore, it is essential that you analyze to increase, concisely, the amount of nutrient solution according to the type of plant.
Deficiencies and excesses
A deficiency of a micronutrient is relatively easy to correct, but excesses or toxicities are very difficult to solve. For this reason, it is important not to introduce an excessive concentration into the hydroponic reservoir at the beginning or during the whole cultivation period.
Common symptoms of a nutrient deficiency and excess in plants
Nitrogen
It collaborates in various metabolic and physiological processes for plant growth, formation of leaf mass, formation of enzymes and pigments such as chlorophyll. It is used to build amino acids and nucleic acids.
- Pale green to light yellow color (chlorosis) that appears first on older leaves, usually starting at the tips. Depending on the severity of the deficiency, chlorosis can cause the death and drop of older leaves.
- The protein content of the seeds decreases.
- Causes early maturity in some crops, which translates into a significant reduction in yield and quality.
- Excess nitrogen: light green leaves.
Phosphorus
It contributes to the development and functioning of the root system, and ripening of the fruits.
- Slow, weak and stunted growth.
- Symptoms of dark to blue-green coloration; bluish-green on older leaves of some plants.
Potassium
It participates in the synthesis of starch, fats, proteins and sucrose; strengthens tissues, prevents premature wilting of flowers, etc.
- In some plants, the stems are weak.
- The size of the seeds and fruits is reduced.
Calcium
It influences the cell membrane and enzymes, regulates the absorption of proteins and carbohydrates, etc.
- The growing tips of roots and leaves turn brown and die.
- Newly sprouted leaves can stick together at the margins, causing tears as the leaves expand and unfold. This can also weaken stem structure.
- Younger leaves may be cupped and wrinkled.
- The buds and flowers drop off prematurely.
Sulfur
It is a component of proteins, vitamins, amino acids cystine and methionine. Participates in the formation of chlorophyll.
- Growth and maturity are delayed.
- Plant stems are stiff, thin, and woody.
- Symptoms may be similar to those of N deficiency.
Boron
It helps in the formation of cell walls.
- The leaves become brittle.
- Plant cell walls tend to swell and divide, creating a weakened intercellular space.
Zinc
It regulates redox processes, participates in the photosynthesis reaction, promotes the production of vitamins, increases heat resistance, etc.
- New leaves are often abnormally small.
Copper
It cooperates to retain water in tissues, increases resistance against fungal and bacterial diseases.
- Reduced growth and distortion of young leaves.