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Keep a Grower's Journal - It can be exceedingly difficult to keep track of all the variables that go in hydroponics. When you make a change that either results in weaker plants or a bigger yield, it can be tough to exactly pinpoint what made your plants change. This is where a grower's journal is critical. You can use it to keep track of every change in nutrients, watering, pH level, lights, as well as record on how your plants are faring on a day-to-day basis. You can use this data to pin point what factors are helping your plants. Over time, you can fine tune all the factors that go into your grow.
Be Careful with Water - This is probably one of the most valuable hydroponics tips you will ever hear. If you use too much water, your roots will rot. If you use too little, your roots will dry out. You need to very careful with adjustments here to achieve optimum hydration. Watch the leaves of your plants before and after each watering. If your plants appear to perk up after a watering, water more often. If your plants appear to wilt shortly after a watering, water less often.
Make Liberal Use of Your Pruning Shears - Any time you see a leaf or stem that appears useless or rotting, prune it off. Anything you see that appears to be robbing valuable energy and nutrients from the rest of the healthy plant is a waste. The "cleaner" you can make each individual plant, the bigger your yields will be.
Pay Attention to Your Nutrient Solution Temperature - Far too many people ignore this. Keep your nutrient solution in between sixty-five and seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Too much below or above this, and your plants will not get all the nutrients that they need.
Invest in a Plant Stimulant or High Quality Fertilizer - For hydroponic gardening, picking up a bag of plant nutrients at your local chain feed store just isn't going to cut it. You need a plant stimulant that is designed specifically for hydroponic growing. Make sure the fertilizer you purchase comes from a reputable hydroponic retailer.
Use CO2 generators Carefully - You should only use CO2 generators with your hydroponic system if you an experienced gardener who knows what he or she is doing. It's true that this method can dramatically increase yields, but it can also kill your crop if done sloppily. When using a CO2 generator, it is important to increase the amount of light and nutrients your plants are receiving as well. You should also measure your atmosphere conditions very carefully. Most plants can use up to 1500 parts per million, assuming all other conditions are optimized. If your CO2 levels reach or exceed 2000 parts per million, your plants most certainly are going to die. So whenever you hear hydroponics tips regarding carbon dioxide levels, make sure it is backed up by plenty of research.
