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Author: Brian

Cheapest Hydroponic Growing Medium
Just because hydroponic is a soil-free system does not mean we would not have anything to support our plants. This is why we have the hydroponic growing medium that replaces soil or dirt. So, if you’re searching for the cheapest hydroponic growing medium, then look through our guide.
We have outlined the cheapest hydroponic growing medium with the right information and some great tip to make your search easy. So, read on to know your best pick.
What Is A Hydroponic Growing Medium?
A hydroponic growing medium is a soil-free component that helps to hold sturdy or support the plant root system in the hydroponics. However, it does not provide nutrients. It is a permeable material therefore it can absorb and hold moisture, nutrients, and oxygen for the root system which is needed to grow healthily.
A hydroponic grow medium can also be a non-permeable material. You just have to increase the watering schedule so your plant root does not dry out.
Types And Characteristics Of Hydroponic Growing Medium
Before we dive into the cheapest hydroponic growing medium, let’s have an idea about the types and characteristics of some grow medium.
There are various hydroponic mediums available for your hydroponic use. Any type works great. They simply depend on the type of plant you wish to grow, the type of hydroponic system been used, and your preference.
There are so many growing mediums are accessible to suit your needs, budget, and preference. We have listed a few of the most common types of hydroponic growing medium used.
1. Rockwool
Rockwool is one soil-free hydroponic growing medium that has been in existence for a long period. It’s been longed used for plant starters and cloning. It is an inert media made from melting rock and other processes. Rockwool is meant to be pre-soaked and it has been shaped into cubes, slabs, or blocks.
Rockwool is now been used in place of starter plugs which helps in rapidly encouraging the sprouting of seeds in your farm.
2. Coco Coir
Coco coir is a famous and best-loved growing medium among hydroponic farmers. They come from the husk of coconuts and are great for hydroponic plant support and moist retention.
The soilless coco coir is loved because of its awesome characteristic protection of seed and makes them start strong. It will protect your seeds from buildup salt and too much sunlight that can harm your seeds. At the same time being a good medium free of fungi or pathogens.
3. Oasis cube
Oasis cubes is another great grow media comparable to Rockwool and they are made for both seeds and cuttings. It is an inert growing media that require no pre-soaking and has a neutral pH.
4. Expandable Clay Pebbles or Pellets
The expandable clay pebbles or pellets also called hydroton pellets is a pH neutral grow media. They are great supports for your plants which will also fit in net pots and they are reusable. Although they are not so cheap, they are cost-effective and great for your hydroponic plants.
5. Perlite
Perlite is another great media used for hydroponics. Apart from being a growing media, it is commonly used as soil additives by traditional soil growers. It is made from heating volcanic glass.
Perlite is not as good as standalone media. It is usually mixed with other grow media such as vermiculite, coco coir, as well as soil, and it’s usually mixed 50/50. Perlite is less expensive and it’s reusable.
6. Vermiculite
Vermiculite can be compared to perlites and it is made from heating mineral rocks till it expands into pebbles. It is mostly used in a mixture with other grow media.
4 Recommended Cheapest Hydroponic Growing Medium
We have listed some recommended cheapest growing medium you can go for:
1. GROW!T JSCPB – Coco Coir Mix Brick (Pack of 3)
Grow!t coco coir mix is an awesome organic growing medium for your seeds and seedlings to germinate and start strong. It is one of the cheapest good quality coco coir and it’s easy to store and it expands very well. It is also biodegradable and renewable.
Another advantage we admire is that it offers protection against pathogens and fungi, therefore, giving your plant healthy growth. It also protects against the build-up salt.
Grow!t coco coir mix is a soil-free medium that holds water adequately and there’s no risk of plant drowning. It conveys nutrients throughout your plant root thereby improving plant development. It also has good aeration.
Pros
- Great water retention, nutrient circulation, and aeration.
- Offers protection for your plants.
- Expandable and easy to store.
- No over-saturation problems.
Cons
- May need washing.
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2. Grodan Mini Cubes Rockwool Hydroponic Grow Media + THCity Gloves – 2 Gallon Bag
The Grodan mini cube is a type of Rockwool and it is an inexpensive hydroponic growing medium. It comes in a cotton-like candy fiber and has been compacted into various shapes such as blocks, cubes, or slabs.
Grodan mini cube will serve as a great anchor for your hydroponic plants in their various developmental stages. This type of growing media will retain moisture and deliver nutrients to your plant root. It is great in providing good air circulation (oxygen) for the growth of your plant.
We admire the fact that it comes with a pair of lovely gloves for your comfort and protection when handling your medium.
If you wish, the cuttings or seedlings you started in Grodan mini cube can be transplanted to dirt or your soilless growing medium. Grodon will work fine if all other growing conditions are met.
The downside is that they need to be presoaked and the pH range will need to be monitored.
All in all, this is a good option you can consider when choosing the cheap hydroponic growing medium if all other conditions are met.
Pros
- Retains moisture.
- Delivers nutrients to plant roots.
- Good air circulation.
- Comes with fine pair of gloves.
Cons
- Needs to be presoaked.
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3. 1.5 inch Rockwool/Stonewool Grow Cubes
1.5 inches Rockwool is another cheap and available option for your hydroponic growing medium. It can be used for seed starters, root cuttings, and so on.
This medium provides a good anchor for your plant even for starter plants. It has great air circulation and excellent drainage properties. It also conveys nutrients to your plant root for adequate and rapid growth.
You can either use it for your garden hobby or commercial growing purpose. The size is excellent to fit into a standard flat grow tray.
Even though it requires presoaks before use, overall this is a good option you can consider when choosing the cheapest hydroponic growing medium.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Great for seed starters and cuttings.
- Provides anchor for plants.
- Great air circulations, drainage, and delivers nutrients.
Cons
- Requires presoak.
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1. Clay Pebbles – 100g Hydroponic Clay Pebbles Growing Media Anion Clay Rocks
Clay pebble is another cheap soil-free hydroponic growing medium as well as aquaponics. It is safe and reliable and does not emit any toxic substances. They are also free from pests and diseases.
This growing medium is great support for your plant root and has excellent retention of moisture. It is as well a good transport media for nutrients. Another positive thing is that they are capable of storing nutrient and releasing it to the plant root slowly.
They might not be the best of the best, but you can work your way around it.
Pros
- Support plants root.
- Great water retention.
- Great in transporting nutrients.
Cons
- Needs washing because they are dusty.
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Points To Consider When Choosing The Cheapest Growing Medium
You need to put into consideration some points when choosing the cheapest hydroponic growing medium. We have outlined these points and they will help you make the right decision.
- Water Holding Capacity: one important point to know when choosing your growing medium is its water retention. Because nutrients are dissolved in water, the medium needs to be able to hold water and transport nutrient solution for the usefulness of your plant growth.
- Good Anchor: because there is an absence of soil that gives support: the growing medium should be able to provide an adequate anchor to hold your plant sturdy.
- Aeration: the growing medium must have good air circulation which is required for your plants’ growth.
- Affordability and Availability: you should also consider if the growing medium is affordable and available in your region.
You should also note that apart from choosing the right growing medium, all other growing conditions need to be met for you to have a smooth and running hydroponic garden.
FAQ’s
What growing medium is best for hydroponics?
One favorite growing medium is perlite. It’s lightweight, easy to mix into any solution and has a great absorption rate. The only thing is that it doesn’t seem to hold moisture very well. You can buy pre-mixed bags at your local gardening store. There are some good reasons to use coco coir. It’s cheap, light weight, easy to mix with water and will absorb up to 5 times its weight in water. The only thing is that it is not very absorbent so you will need to add more fertilizer to it than if you were using a more absorbent medium like peat moss or vermiculite. .
Can rocks be used in hydroponics?
I would suggest using them as an addition. If you are not familiar with hydroponics, it is a method of growing plants using nutrient solutions. It works by having the roots in a solution and the plant uses the water to transport nutrients into the root system. There are two basic types of hydroponic systems: a hanging basket system and a tray system. In a tray system, the roots are grown in a tray of nutrient solution and they are submerged in the solution. The roots grow down into the solution and the solution is constantly being replaced. This is a slow growing method because the roots are growing into the nutrient solution rather than pushing through it. In a hanging basket system, the roots grow out of the nutrient solution.
Is perlite a good hydroponic medium?
Perlite is a hydrophilic, air-filled, spherical, glassy volcanic rock. It does have some beneficial qualities, but like any other growing medium it has some drawbacks too. One big drawback is that it is very light, almost weightless, so you have to hold it up for your plants or they won’t grow well. Another major drawback is that it is a poor nutrient medium. It is a very poor nutrient medium. It does contain some nutrients, but the nutrients are so low in quantity that it is basically worthless as a nutrient source.
Additionally, it is a very light material and will expand when wet.
Do you need soil for hydroponics?
No, you don´t. What is the best soil for growing plants? Hydroponic systems can be a little tricky to set up, but once it’s set up and running, it’s an easy way to grow a variety of crops. If you’re planning on growing hydroponically, then you’ll need a container that will hold water and your plant roots.
These containers are called “soil-less” or “water-less.” Water-less containers are designed to be used in a hydroponic system. The main purpose of this system is to grow plants using water, rather than soil. In hydroponic gardening, you need to keep your roots constantly moist, so water-less containers are perfect for this type of gardening. It can be easy to start seeds or seedlings in a hydroponic system. This method is also great for indoor gardens.
Conclusion
Hydroponic growing medium supplies your plants good moisture so your plants do not dry out. They also convey nutrients and can act as a buffer in case your pump or any other essential part fails.
All in all, before you settle finally for a particular medium, try and experiment with the various medium. This way, you can pin down the appropriate growing medium for your plant’s growing needs.
Various plants have different growing needs and they will thrive with different growing mediums. Also, make sure all other growing requirements are met.
We recommend you give your system a trial and error so you can perfect all the needs of your hydroponic system.
January 26, 2021
Can You Transplant Hydroponic Plants To Soil
Are you wondering if you can transplant your hydroponic plants to the soil? The straight-up answer is yes! You can definitely transplant your hydroponic plants into the dirt and we will teach you how to go about it successfully. So, read on to learn.
Transplanting hydroponics into the dirt is not a straightforward process to venture into. You have to consider and follow some fundamental processes for a smooth transition so your plant does not go into shock. Following the right procedure, will allow you to achieve a better performing and healthy plant.
Transplanting Hydroponic Plants To Soil
Transplanting your hydroponic plants into the soil can be done from cuttings or seedlings. Small Rockwool starter plugs or rapid rooter plugs can as well be used in cuttings and seedlings and transplanting them into the soil.
Steps On Transplanting Hydroponic Plants To Soil
To transplant your hydroponic into the soil, you first transplant it into a potting container. When they have grown and mastered the changes between indoors and outdoors, you can now transplant them into your outdoor garden.
Before you begin handling your hydroponic plants you wish to transplant, ensure you have all your materials available and set especially for fragile seedlings. This way, you don’t leave your fragile plants to linger and you can start right away. Also, the tender plant root can venture and transit seamlessly into the dirt.
Another thing before you transplant is to allow the water level in your hydroponic garden to drop and stay low for a few days. Also, don’t put or feed your hydroponic plant with direct LED light but put it close to the light and allow it to search for light.
Do this for a week or two. This way, the plant starts to adjust and harden off preparing for the outdoor experience.
Materials required for transplanting your hydroponic plants into soil include:
- A growing pot or container
- Water for your plants
- Plant from your hydroponic system
- Soil
Step 1
Get the growing pot you want to use to transplant. Obtain a pot size that fits the size of your plant. If you are planting a big plant, you should obtain a big pot and the pot should be wide and deep. This way, there is adequate room for growth and there’s space for the root which is important for your plant transition. Give your transplanted plant about 4 to 6 inches of space deep to allow them to grow. If your plants are grown and sticks together, carefully separate by breaking them up. Be careful because the plant can be prone to shock.
Step 2
Add your growing medium into the pot. Use a growing medium that has a buffer. You can make use of a potting soil mix that contains compost manure and some perlite. Spread or dig up a hole in your soil and put the hydroponic plant into the growing container and fit it through. Surround it with additional soil and adjust the plant until it’s fixed and sturdy.
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Step 3
The next important step is to water immediately. Always keep the soil moist because hydroponic plants are used to regular water.
Step 4
The next step is the feed them with sunlight. Take note to give them only some duration of sunlight. Do not keep them outdoors for long. They need to adjust to sunlight intensity and go through the stage of hardening. This way, they can get accustomed to sunlight and last in outdoor temperatures.
Plant Shock
If you followed the right procedure, your plant should come out well. However, your transplanted plant may suffer from shock and it’s not a rare thing to occur. Not too worry. It’s most likely the hydroponic plant transplanted is going through some recovery process as it enters shock.
You may start to notice the leaves getting soft or falling off. All you need to do is to give it some time. As the plant drops most of its leaves, new leaves will emerge as the plant recovers from shock in a couple of weeks. Always maintain a moist soil and allow the root to adjust and let it look for nutrients from the soil. This way, your plant will start to come back.
When your plants have fully recovered and are now resilient, they can now be placed outdoors.
FAQ’s
Can you repot hydroponic plants to soil?
You can, but it’s not easy. You’d have to be able to find the roots and then remove them from the pot, then replant them into a new pot of soil, preferably with some compost mixed in as well.
It’s a good idea to start with a small plant, and then build up the amount of potting mix. You should use as much potting mix as you need for the size of the plant you are growing. It’s a good idea to make a couple of small pots to test out your plants first. You can put the plants in the soil, but it will take them some time to adjust.
How do you transplant hydroponic seedlings?
Before you start transplanting your hydroponic plants into soil you need to decide whether you want to transplant the whole plant or just the roots. If you are just starting out in hydroponics I recommend that you just transplant the roots.
You can do this by using a large pot and filling it with a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Once the pot is full of the mixture you can take the hydroponic plant and place it in the center of the pot. Then take your knife and cut a hole in the bottom of the pot about two inches in diameter.
Next take your roots and place them into the hole. Now fill the rest of the pot with more of the peat moss mixture. After you have put in all of the roots fill the rest of the pot with soil and water the plant.
The most important rule to remember is that you must keep the roots wet. If the roots are dry they will die and you will lose your whole hydroponic garden.
The best way to transplant seedlings is to use a flat. I have a 5 gallon container with a lid that has a hole in the bottom, and I put my seedlings in there and then cover them with plastic wrap. The plastic will keep the soil moist while they are growing. Then when they are big enough, I take out the plastic and put them in bigger pots.
Can you use any seeds for hydroponics?
Yes, you can.
For seeds, I’d suggest starting out with the best quality seeds. You could buy them from a reputable grow shop, or you can try to get them for free. The main thing to look for is good germination rates.
What vegetables can be planted using a hydroponic system?
You can grow any vegetable in a hydroponic system, as long as you provide the correct nutrients and lighting for the specific plant.
What is the most profitable hydroponic crop to grow?
Lettuce is the crops that do best in hydroponics.
Transplanting Hydroponic Plants
Transplanting hydroponic plants into the soil is really a practical process carried out by most growers. It might be somewhat tough to achieve especially for beginners, however, it’s worth the try.
But if in the end, it does not work out, you have the choice of carrying on with your hydroponic system.
January 26, 2021
What Is A Dutch Bucket
Let’s talk about what a Dutch bucket is. A Dutch bucket is the central part of a type of hydroponic system method. Dutch bucket is one of the easiest, less expensive, and effective types of hydroponic systems.
Dutch bucket hydroponics is also called bato bucket system and it’s an efficient system where various plants can be grown in buckets. We have outlined all you need to know about the Dutch bucket so read on to learn.
What Is A Dutch Bucket System
Dutch bucket uses the bucket as the central core as the growing part for its plants. It is versatile and you can grow various plants from small plants to a bunch of large plants. They are sometimes used in aquaponics even though aquaponics systems are a bit difficult to set up in aquaponics.
Dutch bucket offers you the opportunity to easily grow large climbing plants such as vine. Thus, vine plants like tomatoes have been the major popular plants used in Dutch buckets by many growers. Actually, the majority of commercial hydroponics tomatoes are cultivated through Dutch bucket.
Other examples of vining plants are peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, hops, eggplants, and potatoes. Ensure you supply adequate support for these large climbing plants especially when they become heavy.
Dutch bucket or bato bucket takes advantage of space and water and effectively. Because they are well aerated, you enjoy plentiful yield all year round.
Dutch Bucket Mechanism Of Action
First, let’s take a look at some of the requirements and components of the Dutch bucket hydroponics system. They include:
- One big bucket or reservoir for holding water as well as nutrients.
- Growing media type such as perlite, vermiculite, and coco coir.
- Drip emitters.
- PVC pipe.
- Fittings and connections.
- Submersible pump.
- Clamps.
Now, let’s have an idea of how the Dutch bucket system works. The Dutch system makes use of the draining system technique and there are recirculation method and flow to waste method.
In a Dutch hydroponic system, the plants are grown in Dutch buckets which are lined up in a row. Keep in mind that it is crucial to use a grow media that can absorb and retain water, maintain outstanding air circulation around the roots, and give plants supports.
Drip emitters are attached along with the irrigation hose. Therefore, through the drip emitters, the plant’s roots are supplied and fed with adequate nutrients by directly pointing them to each plant’s roots.
With the big bucket or reservoir and a submerged pump that holds water and nutrients, nutrient solutions are pumped across the drip hose or irrigation path. Therefore, the pumped nutrients solution flows and drops over the plant roots through drip emitters.
In A Recirculation Method
The pipe at the base of the bucket leads to the drain. So, as nutrients are drops into the plants, the nutrient solution drops to the bottom level of the bucket and exits through the drain pipe. Therefore, the drain pipe passes the nutrient solution back into the nutrient reservoir.
The fact that the bucket does not fill up and it’s always drained back allows the root of the plants to always be exposed to adequate air. Excess nutrient solutions are returned to the reservoir. Therefore, the nutrient solutions used in feeding the plants are not lost.
This method is known as the recirculation irrigation method. In the recirculation method, you can leave the pump on to run all day, non-stop. It can run all day without monitoring.
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In A Flood to Waste Method
Nutrients are not allowed to drain back into the reservoir. Therefore, they are drained out of the system without reuse. Though this option is wasteful, however, it does reduce the unbalancing of nutrients.
Read more about Tips To Successfully Starting A Microgreen Business
Benefits Of Dutch Bucket Hydroponics
Below are the benefits you enjoy from making use of the Dutch system:
- Dutch bucket is great for saving space for large crops and high vining crops.
- An excellent option for vining crops, bushy, and fruity plants,
- Very efficient in pest control because if an infestation occurs in one bucket, it can be easily replaced without affecting the other buckets or entire system.
- It is very easy to set up making it a great hydroponic system for beginners.
- Automated systems with a recirculation method allowing you to run the pump all day without the need for monitoring.
FAQ’s
What is a Dutch bucket used for?
Hydroponics is the use of a nutrient solution to grow plants without soil. The plants are grown in a container, usually with holes in it to allow for water to pass through and be absorbed by the roots. There are several different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a system that consists of a bucket, which is used as the growing container, and a pump to move the nutrient solution around.
A nutrient solution is made up of a number of different substances. For example, there might be a fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients. There are also some chemicals that will help keep the water from becoming too acidic or too alkaline. In addition, there may be an anti-fungal agent to prevent disease in the soil. The purpose of the nutrient solution is to supply all the nutrients that the plant needs to grow. Hydroponic buckets can vary a lot in design. Some have holes in the sides, while others have a lid. Some may be round or square. They also vary in size and shape. The biggest problem with buckets is that they tend to be fairly heavy, so you need to be sure that it’s sturdy enough to support the weight of the plants inside. There are a few different ways to use hydroponic buckets. You can use them as growing containers for a single plant. You can use them as a growing container for multiple plants.
What is the point of aquaponics?
The term ‘Aquaponics’ was coined in 1996 by two engineers – Doug Tompkins and John Ikerd – who are now regarded as the founders of this revolutionary new technology. They believed that it could be an environmentally friendly method of producing high-quality food, whilst also providing a water recycling system. There are many different types of aquaponic systems, with varying levels of complexity and cost.
The basic concept is that fish waste is used to fertilise plants and vegetables, and this is then recycled back into the system. The nutrient-rich water that is created from this process provides a continuous source of freshwater for the fish and plants, as well as for other animals and people. In an aquaponic system, fish waste (called ‘sludge’) is removed from the tank, and this is then used to fertilise vegetables in the growing beds, which then filter out the nutrients and are returned to the fish tank. The water that is produced from the plant’s metabolism is then recycled through the growing beds, so that the plant and vegetable growth can continue without the need for any additional water. Aquaponics is a sustainable, self-contained, closed-loop system, which can be built in a small garden or on a large commercial scale. It is an innovative technology that has the potential to provide a valuable source of food for the world.
Conclusion
The Dutch bucket is an excellent type of hydroponic technique you can opt for. Thus, it is easy to set up and very efficient. It allows you to grow large and vining plants in a small amount of space and you enjoy abundant yield all year round.
January 25, 2021
How To Fix Root Rot Hydroponics
Hydroponics comes with so many benefits. However, there are a few challenges to it. One of these challenges is root rot. If you are struggling with root rot in your hydroponics, not too worry. We will give you the information on how to fix root rot in your hydroponics.
Some growers experience root rot and think there’s no solution and dispose of these crops. That’s not always the case. It will interest you to know that most root rot can be fixed and we will teach you how to go about it. However, if the issue has existed for too long, your plants may perhaps be irremediable.
How To Fix Root Rot In Your Hydroponics
The first thing to fixing root rot in your hydroponics is to identify the problem. After identifying the problem, you can now take steps to solve it. Below are some ways you can detect root rot problems.
#1 Identifying Root Rot in Your Hydroponics
Signs should be checked from the leaves down to their roots. To tell if you have a root rot problem in your hydroponics, check for the following signs:
- Leaves: leaves will begin turning yellow, wilting, or dry up.
- Root: When you notice your leaves looking bad, that’s a sign your roots are suffering. Check your roots immediately. An unhealthy root looks tangled, slimy, and turns brown.
- Smell: when you lift the lid of your tank to perceive the smell, the roots of your plant will smell funny.
#2 Fixing Root Rot Hydroponics
To stand a chance of saving your plant, early detection and taking early action is the key. Do the following quick steps to save your rotting root:
- Go ahead and shut down your hydroponic system.
- If your plants are in net pots, remove your plants from your hydroponic system.
- Clean the root by running it underwater to eliminate the dead root and remains.
- With clean scissors, cut away the infected root left.
- Go ahead and drain the solution from your reservoir.
- If you have a single plant hydroponic system, remove it and sterilize it. If your hydroponic system is multiple plants, isolate the infected ones, clean and sterilize them. Do not allow the root rot to affect the rest of your garden.
- Now go ahead and put your system back on and running. Refill the nutrient solution.
- However, if you are dealing with a large plant, cut or trim away the wilting leaves and part of the rooting root. This way, you will allow the plant to focus on rebuilding a new and healthy root system and leaves.
- At the end of it all, ensure you maintain a nutrient level of about 70 degrees and adequately oxygenated. You should also keep the air pump on at all times for adequate air circulation.
Causes Of Brown Roots In Hydroponics
The major cause of root rot is poor air circulation in the water. Another reason is the lack of direct exposure of air to the root or combinations of both. It majorly occurs with a deep water culture system when the roots are exposed to water for a long time.
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Although we know hydroponic farming deals majorly with water solutions, at times the roots can rot from oversaturation. This encourages and causes infiltration of pathogenic bacteria, microorganisms, and fungi to feast on the root causing root rot.
This infection can spread throughout your garden if you do not solve the problem. If you contain these infected plants early enough, you can save the rest of your uninfected hydroponic garden.
Prevention Of Root Rot In Hydroponic
You can always prevent root rot in hydroponics if you know and avoid the causes. Even before you experience root rot, it will be very helpful if you learn ahead how to quickly fix a root rot problem should in cause it happens to you. Follow the steps we outlined above to fix your rotten root.
Other steps you can take to prevent root rot are:
- Maintain a clean and sterile condition of your hydroponics. Decontaminate your hydroponic system if need be and sterilize all parts of your system. Make sure there is no room for pathogenic bacteria from breeding.
- Go for a suitable pump and air stone as this will enhance good air circulation.
- Trim your roots religiously to encourage oxygen and nutrient to circulate easily. Don’t allow the root to overgrow and become large because they can hinder the access to important nutrients your plants need.
FAQ’s
Can hydroponic plants get root rot?
Yes, root rot can occur on plants grown in a hydroponic system. A number of factors can cause root rot, including nutrient deficiencies, poor aeration, and the presence of disease organisms. While it’s not always easy to diagnose, you may be able to use a soil test kit to determine whether a nutrient deficiency is present or if your plants are suffering from any type of fungal or bacterial infection.
If you do suspect root rot, it’s important to get the plant out of the system as quickly as possible and begin treating it with a good fungicide.
It’s important to make sure that the lights you use are either low-light fluorescent lamps or low-energy-consumption metal halide lamps. This will help to keep the plants from being stressed by excess light. You’ll also want to make sure that your plants have access to adequate ventilation, which is often difficult to accomplish in a hydroponic system.
However, the main cause of root rot is over-watering. This causes the roots to wilt and eventually die.

What does hydroponic root rot look like?
Hydroponic root rot is a fungal disease that can affect your indoor hydroponic garden. It causes roots to become brittle and brown, and the plants will have a watery root area that is infected. The first symptom is the appearance of white fluffy roots. These roots are the hyphae of the fungus that is causing the damage. They are soft and spongy.
If you see white fluffy roots in your plants, you need to get rid of them immediately. If you do not remove them immediately, they will continue to grow and cause more harm. You can remove the roots with a sharp knife or by cutting them off at the base.
Can you over water in hydroponics?
Yes, it is possible to overwater plants in a hydroponic system.
Does high pH cause root rot?
The pH of a plant or soil is a measure of the amount of acid or base in that environment. The pH scale runs from 0 to 14 and is used to describe the strength of the acid or base in a solution. A pH of 7 is neutral; anything below 7 is acidic, while anything above 7 is alkaline. A plant’s normal pH range is between 2.5 and 1.5. A pH below 2.5 is considered too low for most plants and is often called acidic. QA PH below 3 is an indication of root rot.
Can root rot be reversed?
Yes. Root rot is caused by fungi, which are organisms that grow and reproduce in a similar manner to the bacteria that cause most other diseases. Fungi are not living organisms, but rather an organism’s spores. To prevent root rot, you need to prevent the fungal spores from germinating.
The most common root rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora megakarya. P. megakarya is found in wet soil and has the ability to break down the cell walls of roots. When the cell walls of the root are damaged, the plant begins to decay. Other types of root rot are caused by species of Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium and Sclerotinia. There are many ways to control root rot. Preventing the fungi from germinating is one method. Another is controlling the moisture conditions around the roots. If the soil becomes too dry, the roots will not have enough water to feed them properly. Roots should also be kept moist at all times. You can also use fungicides to prevent the fungus from germinating.
Final Say
Cleanliness and good aeration are the right ways to preventing rotting of the root. Another way is to detect the symptoms on time to tackle them.
If you are experiencing root rot in your hydroponics, follow our outlined steps to fix your plants.
January 25, 2021
Hydroponic Cucumber Nutrient Formula – Your Complete Guide
Let’s talk about the hydroponic cucumber nutrient formula. One common vine crop that is popular among farmers and gardeners is the cucumber plant. It is loved for the juicy and delicious fruits that it produces.
Hydroponic cucumbers can be grown successfully in a greenhouse setting. They are pretty easy to cultivate and they will yield fast and great results. Getting the hydroponic nutrient formula right for hydroponic cucumbers is crucial as this will provide sufficient nutrients for the plants to support all stages of their growth cycle.
Read on to learn about how to start cucumber hydroponics and the hydroponic cucumber nutrient formula requirements.
Select The Variety Of Your Choice
There are over 100 varieties of cucumbers to choose from. Some of these varieties can be easily found in supermarkets, while others are more uncommon and can only be found in specialty shops. These cucumbers can be used in various ways in the kitchen, such as pickling, slicing for salads, sandwiches, or just snacking.
Eight of the most common cucumbers are;
- English cucumbers
- Persian cucumbers
- White cucumbers
- Garden cucumbers
- Kirby cucumbers
- Lemon cucumbers
- Armenian cucumbers
- Gherkins
Some varieties are better suited for certain functions, so we that recommend you select the variety based on your preference or purpose. Choose if you want to cultivate cucumber for pickling or slicing. You should also select the variety based on your hydroponic setup. There are also resistant cucumber varieties which are an excellent choice. Note that these varieties can come in various shapes, sizes, and maturation lengths of time.
Other characteristics differentiate them. These may be useful to know if you plan to grow them:
- Burpless: this type of cucumber variety tastes more delicious. It is also thin-skinned.
- Spineless: this type does not have a spine or any prickly stubs. It also has smooth skin.
- Bitter-free: most cucumbers are known to taste bitter when ignored and left for a long time on the vine. However, this type of cucumber variety is made to be bitter-free.
- Gynoecious Cucumber: this type gives rise to female flowers. Some gynoecious cucumber varieties do not require pollination, while some do. Both however produce large numbers of flowers and will produce a lot of cucumber fruit over a relatively short period.
Hydroponic Cucumber Nutrient Formula
A balanced hydroponic cucumber nutrient formula has the right formula to support the growth of the plants at whatever stage it is at. To make a nutrient solution for cucumbers in a hydroponic medium, this is how you should do it;
Materials Needed
Plastic container, expanded clay, net pots, and hydroponic cucumber nutrient formula.
Starting Hydroponic Cucumber Seedlings
Started hydroponic cucumber in 3 ways, and they are:
1. Seed Germination: start with cucumber seed germination. The seeds will germinate quickly and you start to notice seedlings within 3 to 10 days.
2. Soil Transplant: you can as well transplant cucumber plants from soil to a hydroponics medium. You can purchase some cucumber plants from a garden store near you and transplant them into your hydroponics.
3. Cloning: start hydroponic cucumber with cloning as this is another great method. You can be assured of getting results of the same features or traits from the plants you used for cloning.
Type Of Hydroponic System To Choose
You need to decide which type of hydroponic will suit your cucumber. Variety is also important when choosing the type of hydroponic for your cucumber plant.
Indoor hydroponics will require space. But if you don’t have much space you can go for the bushy cucumber variety. You can go for the deepwater culture or ebb and flow system for indoor hydroponics.
We would however recommend you grow cucumber outdoors in the warmer months. This way, they can have adequate space and there will be space to produce more yield. You can make use of vertical hydroponics by training them to grow vertically. You can also opt for the drip, Dutch bucket, and bug ebb and flow systems. Use a trellis for support when your cucumber plants start to grow big.
Hydroponic Cucumber Nutrient Formula Requirements
Hydroponic cucumber nutrients have a specific formula. This is especially meant for their vegetative development. You can easily purchase these nutrient solutions online as they are readily available.
There are some nutrient solutions readily available to usher your cucumber plant into its flowering stage. Other nutrient solutions are also available to gear your cucumber plant throughout its flowering stage. Note for the flowering stage, you are required to change your nutrient scheme to lesser nitrogen. Also, add more potassium and phosphorous.
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The one type of general nutrient scheme may be simple to use. But know that they may not provide your cucumber plants with the required nutrients tailored for the specific growth phase. Along with the right nutrient formula for your hydroponic cucumbers, other crucial environmental conditions should be maintained at an optimal range for efficient growth and production. These are;
- pH – water pH for hydroponic cucumbers is key to efficient growth. The ideal pH range that the system should be kept at is between 5.5 – 6.0
- Temperature – cucumber plants will thrive well in temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range will encourage and boost the growth of your cucumber plant.
So, your cucumber should be ready after 5 to 6 weeks after seed sowing.
Common Hydroponic Cucumber Problems
While growing cucumbers in hydroponics systems can be quite a breeze compared to growing them in the soil, it is however not without its share of troubles. But because these problems can be quite common and predictable, you can prepare yourself to fight them in case they do occur. Here are the 4 most common problems associated with growing cucumbers in hydroponics.
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a white fungus that can grow on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the cucumber. This fungus thrives in areas that have a warm climate and provide high humidity. Environments like greenhouses are breeding grounds for powdery mildew, so if your hydroponics system is in a greenhouse your cucumbers are at high risk of getting infected. The risk will be higher in the summer and spring months.
Powdery mildew will not directly kill your cucumbers but it will steal some of the nutrients and water that the cucumber was supposed to use for growth and productivity. This will result in your cucumber plants growing slowly, becoming weak, or not even producing fruit.
The best way to treat powdery mildew is with the use of an organic fungicide that has sulfur as the main active ingredient.
Homemade remedies are another option to try. Mixtures that include potassium carbonate, soap, milk, and water work well. You could also add Neem oil to these mixtures for additional fungus-killing power.
2. Gummy Stem Blight
Gummy stem blight is another fungus that infects the stem and leaves of the cucumber plant and causes wet black lesions on the leaves and causes the stems to split and ooze a reddish brown sticky substance. If it is left untreated, the blight can travel up to the fruit and cause it to develop into black rot, resulting in the loss of a potentially good crop.
Commercial fungicides with great strength are used to treat gummy stem bight. They are applied during the prime gummy stem blight season, or when the leaves of the cucumber plant are starting to reach their full size.
3. Two Spotted Spider Mites
Two-spotted spider mites thrive in hot and dry environments. They can negatively affect the growth and productivity of cucumbers by interfering with photosynthesis.
The spider mites paper has tiny spots on the bottom of the leaves that cause them to swell, turn yellow, develop signs of necrosis, and reduced the growth of plant leaves.
If your cucumber plant is affected by these mites, the outer skin of the fruit will become rough and have a texture like that of sandpaper.
The spread of two-spotted spider mites is best controlled as soon as possible because they have very fast growth and multiplication rates, especially if the conditions are optimal for their breeding and growth.
Apply miticides or scrub the cucumber plant leaves with insecticide soap to get rid of them. You could also introduce predatory mite species that will kill the spider mites but not harm the cucumber plants.
4. Broad Mites
Broad mites feed and lay their eggs on the bottom of cucumber leaves. When infected, the shoots of the plant become distorted, the leaves begin to curl downward, and the fruits crack.
Broad mites thrive and reproduce in hot, humid conditions. They can however still reproduce and spread in cooler conditions, although at a slower rate. These mites can also spread via plant-to-plant contact, tools, and the gardener’s hands if they have come into contact with infected plants.
The application of miticides may help to a certain extent, but broad mites are resistant to most of these chemicals. The best way to deal with them is to remove all the infected plants in the garden. Also, make sure that you always clean and sanitize all the tools that you use in the garden after each use so that the spider mites do not spread.
How Long Does It Take To Grow Cucumbers Hydroponically?
After germination, cucumber plants grow very fast if the right environmental conditions are provided for them. It takes between four and six weeks from when the seed is sown to when the first cucumber is ready to pick. Cucumbers will continue to produce for three to four months after they start. To always have a cucumber crop, you can practice sequential planting
Can You Grow Cucumbers In Hydroponics?
Cucumbers are one of the most commonly grown plants in hydroponics due to the ease with which they can be grown. They can be grown as a hobby and they are also grown in hydroponics commercially.
They are best grown in greenhouses where conditions can be manipulated to suit the growth stage of the plant. Cucumbers grow best in warm temperatures of between 75 and 85 degrees F, and high light. Cooler temperatures and low light can limit the growth of cucumbers in hydroponics.
Final Note -Hydroponic Cucumber Nutrient Formula
With that said, we hope you’ve learned some things about growing cucumber hydroponically. Ensure you follow all our tips on hydroponic cucumber nutrient formula to get the best and most productive cucumber crop. Happy growing!
FAQ’s
What nutrients do hydroponic cucumbers need?
The term hydroponic cucumber refers to the fact that you do not have to provide any soil or manure for the plants to grow in. Instead, you supply the plant with a nutrient solution that they will absorb through their roots. Hydroponic cucumbers are grown in small plastic trays that are placed on top of a water source.
This is done because the water is recirculated, which prevents the growth of algae and other bacteria that could grow in soil-based cucumbers. The nutrient solution provides all the minerals and nutrients that the cucumber needs to grow. The nutrients that are used in hydroponic cucumber growing are called macro and micro nutrients. Macro nutrients are nutrients that are needed by the plant to grow. They include nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, magnesium, boron, zinc, copper, manganese and iron. These nutrients are not as available in the soil as they are in the water. Micro nutrients are nutrients that are needed by the plant to grow but are not part of the macro nutrients. They include chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum and zinc.
What is the best nutrient solution for hydroponics?
There are many nutrient solutions available to growers for hydroponics. However, most of these are not as efficient as they should be. There are many factors to consider when choosing a hydroponic nutrient solution, such as: Sugar content – The sugar content of the nutrient solution is very important, especially for those with high-intensity light. If the sugar content is too high, it can have an effect on photosynthesis and transpiration rates in plants. It can also have a negative effect on plant growth and development. Too low of a sugar content can result in low photosynthetic rates, plant stress, and even death. The best solution would have about 5-10% sugar. Mg/L – Magnesium is necessary for healthy cell division and chlorophyll production in plants. It is also beneficial for root hair growth. It is also essential to reduce the amount of calcium in the soil. Ca/L – Calcium is an essential mineral that is needed by plants for optimal health. Ca is the main component of cell walls, which helps with the strength and integrity of the plant. Calcium also helps promote strong cell walls, which will help the plant grow faster and thicker. K/L – Potassium is a vital element for plant growth and development. It is required for the formation of carbohydrates and proteins, as well as maintaining the cellular membrane. K is also essential to prevent plants from becoming salt-sensitive. Sulfate/L – Sulfate is an important nutrient for plants that is necessary for healthy cell division, chlorophyll production, and root hair growth. It is also essential for healthy plant growth and development. A good sulfate/L ratio is around The pH level of the nutrient solution is extremely important. A proper pH level is required for plants to properly absorb nutrients. Osmolarity – Osmolarity is a measure of the amount of dissolved solids in a solution. This number is used as a measure of the osmotic pressure of the solution. Osmolarity can be measured with an osmometer. It is important to keep the osmolarity of the nutrient solution at around 300-400 mOsm. This will help prevent the accumulation of excess salts and minerals in the soil or nutrient solution, which can be detrimental to plant growth. Dissolved Oxygen – Dissolved oxygen is one of the most important elements to consider when creating a nutrient solution for hydroponics. Too much oxygen can cause plant stress, and too little oxygen can cause plant death. A good dissolved oxygen level is around 7-10 mg/L.
January 25, 2021
How To Use Rapid Rooters Plugs
Let’s gain some knowledge about how to use rapid rooters. Rapid rooters are made up of organic materials and composted tree bark. It is a great medium for germinating seeds and cuttings, especially for your hydroponics.
Rapid rooter is one of the best grow plug to grow your seedlings and rooted cuttings. It will enhance the growth of your roots and it is easy to use, efficient, and clean.
How to Use Rapid Rooters for Your Hydroponic
Rapid rooters can both be transplanted in hydroponics and into dirt or soil making them versatile. So follow the steps below to know how to use rapid rooters for your hydroponic garden or soil:
- Step 1- Soak your Rapid Rooter Plugs
Get distilled water and soak your rapid rooter plugs to rehydrate them. You can soak them for a few hours or up to 24 hours.
Before putting your rapid rooter inside its holes where the seeds are to be placed, you can tear a tiny part from the bottom. This way, the seeds are kept in a dark place. When you are done soaking, put the rapid rooter plugs in the grow tray.
- Step 2 – Seed Planting
Next is to plant your seeds. Put a seed or more in the holes of each plug. To enhance the rate of successful germination for each of the rapid rooter plug, we recommend you plant more than a seed. These seeds need low light or darkness for seed germination.
- Step 3 – Keep Moist and Cover Grow Tray
You will need to keep the rapid rooter moist by filling the grow tray with about a ¼ inch of water in the tray below. The rapid rooter plug can absorb moisture from the tray and stays hydrated.
The success of the germination rate will increase if you apply some heat. To keep a warm temperature, you can make use of a seedling heat mat below the tray.
Cover the tray with a dome so it can remain in a warm and damp condition. Over-watering them too much is a bad idea.
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Transplanting Your Seedlings from Rapid Rooters Plugs
After a couple of weeks, the seedlings sprout, therefore, they can now be placed under light to boost their growth. When the roots start shooting out of the bottom of the rapid rooter plug, that’s a sign to sign it’s ready to be transplanted into your hydroponics or dirt.
Transplanting to Your Hydroponics
You can transplant your seedlings into any hydroponic grow medium, you can also transplant into dirt or soil. After transplanting them into your hydroponic system, supply just a little dose of nutrient solution.
How to Use Rapid Rooters for Cloning
Apart from making use of rapid rooters for your seed germination, they are also a perfect choice for starting clones. Also, you can use the cloned plant for your hydroponic or dirt. Follow these steps to use rapid rooters for cloning your plants.
Cloning your plants with rapid rooters is pretty similar to seed germination. The first thing to do is to soak your rapid rooter in distilled water for a couple of hours to rehydrate them. Now place the rapid rooter in the growing tray that is meant for holding your clones.
Afterward, obtain a cutting of the plant you wish to clone, the cuttings should some leaves and stem of a minimum of 2 inches. The bottom of the stem should be an inch or two inches bare. You can take away some leaves at the bottom of the stem to expose them.
Cut the base of the stem into an angle of 45 degrees. Now insert your prepared cuttings into a rooting hormone. You can now put the cutting into the hole of the rapid rooter. Push the cutting down the rapid rooter so it can stand upright. Now put the clone in your rapid rooter tray and do the above steps for other clones.
Keep this set up in a dark place and medium heat conditions to promote growth. Therefore, we recommend you use a flat surface tray and heat mat underneath. The tray underneath should also be damp. Do this by putting filling the tray with around a quarter-inch of water. You should begin to see roots shooting out of the base of the rapid rooter plug after a couple of weeks.
Transplant them to your hydroponics or soil.
FAQ’s
How do you use rapid rooter plugs?
This is a very good question. Rapid rooter plugs are one of the most effective ways to remove roots from your lawn. They are also useful for other jobs, such as plugging cracks in concrete, repairing foundation walls, and removing stumps. There are many different types of rapid rooter plugs, but all of them work on the same principle.
First, they are used to create a small trench in the ground where you want roots removed. You may use a power trowel or even a trowel with a blade to dig this trench. Then you insert the plug into the hole and tamp it down so that it is firmly in place. Rapid Rooter Plugs for Lawns If you want to remove roots from your lawn, then the first thing you should do is to dig out the area around the roots. This means you have to remove soil from the immediate vicinity of the roots. If you don’t dig up the roots, they will grow back and you will not be able to remove them again. You can use a regular garden trowel to dig out the roots, but it is much easier to use a power trowel to do the job. You will need a power trowel that has a blade.
To get the best results, you should dig a trench about six inches deep. You may use a power trowel to do this job, but it is easier to use a shovel. You should dig out the root, cut it off at the base, and then dispose of it in a garbage bin. For those who have an older lawn, it might take a bit more time for the grass to grow back. With a new lawn, you should notice that it is growing back quickly. You should be able to see results within a couple of weeks, depending on how big of a hole you dug. The area around the hole should look much better once the roots are removed. You should also be able to see that the roots have been removed. Once you remove all the roots, you can fill up the hole with soil and grass seed. If you want to plant flowers or shrubs in your garden, you can do that now. You will need to keep up with mowing and watering, but you can do this easily by using a power mower and sprinkler system.
How do you store Rapid Rooter plugs?
I would say that any type of storage is good for this type of product, but I would suggest keeping them out of direct sunlight or light of any kind. If you do put them in the freezer, make sure that you keep the moisture level low so that they don’t freeze up. I have also heard that if you keep them on a regular basis in your refrigerator, they last longer. You can also clean them by soaking them in vinegar for about 15 minutes and then wash them off in warm water. You might want to keep them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. I have had my rapid rooter plugs for about 6 years now. They are still good. I keep mine in the freezer because it is cold.
When can I transplant from Rapid Rooter?
To get the best growth, we recommend transplanting your rapid rooter as soon as possible. You can even transplant a rapid rooter before it has completely filled with roots. In fact, some people do this with their rapid rooters to start their rapid rooter plants. We suggest you do not let your rapid rooter sit in water for more than 24 hours after transplanting.
If you do, you will not be able to water your rapid rooter plant properly. Also, don’t wait too long to transplant a rapid rooter. The roots of a rapid rooter need to be exposed to air and light during the transplanting process.
Conclusion
Rapid rooters do a great job when used for rooting and they are ideal for cuttings and seedlings. It promotes healthy and vigorous early rooting for the development of your plant.
Follow our procedure on how to use rapid rooters for your seeds and enjoy great results.
January 24, 2021
Best Bait For Tilapia & Tips to Catching Tilapia
When it comes to catching tilapia, you need to know the best bait for tilapia to make your angling rewarding. To be successful in fishing tilapia, you need to master some skills and be patient to boost your likelihood of catching fish.
Tilapia fish is mainly herbivores and they are a shy type of fish, making them tricky to entice or lure. We will give you the best bait for tilapia to increase your chances of successfully catching tilapia anytime you go out to fish. So, let’s explore.
Best Bait to Use for Tilapia
The best part is tilapias are herbivores therefore you don’t need to spend your money on costly bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers. Their collection of food comprises algae and other little aquatic plants. Below is some of the best bait to catch tilapia fish:
1. Pea: Peas are great bait for tilapia and we recommend using a frozen pea so they can stay well on the hook. You can easily purchase peas from the stores, online, etc. Whether you make use of shelled green peas or canned peas, they are all the same.
2. Corn: Corn is the most common bait used by fishermen. The five types of corn used in angling include frozen corn, feed corn, canned sweet corn, imitation corn, and flavored corn bait. The most productive corn bait amidst this corn is frozen corn and canned sweet corn. Apart from luring tilapia, corn also lures trout, catfish, and perch.
3. Bread balls: if pea or corn is not easy to get, you can make use of bread balls. Also if the bread ball does not stay well on the hook, you can freeze the balls. This way, the balls get hard enough to let the hook penetrate and stay well.
4. Earthworms: you can also opt for earthworms for catching tilapia fish and you can obtain earthworms from vermicomposting. Ensure they are looking like little invertebrates to enhance the chances of these tilapia fish eating them.
Read more about Where to Buy Fish for Aquaponics Systems
Tips on How to Catch Tilapia Fish Successfully
Apart from obtaining the right bait, you need also to know and learn some tips on how to successfully catch a tilapia fish. Here are some tips for successfully catching tilapia fish:
- Spawning Season, the Best Period to Fish for tilapia: the most productive time to fish for tilapia is during their spawning season. Spawning usually occurs when the water temperature drops 60 degrees Fahrenheit. During this period, tilapias are extremely territorial and they attack anything that comes in the way of their spawning beds. This will improve the chances of hooking down the fish increasing your catch.
- Shallow Angling: the shallow waters are ideal for angling. This is because, during the spawning period, tilapia prefers to spawn in shallow waters. This is because there is adequate vegetation and they can hide from predators and other fish.
- Dodge their Spawning Bed: refrain from getting too close to their spawning beds. Tilapias are shy and can be easily spooked. You don’t want to chase them away and miss the opportunity of catching them. Instead, you can fish from the shore.
- Time of the Day to Catch Tilapia: it is ideal to catch tilapia any time of the day. However, to increase your chances, fish during the early sunrise, evenings during sunset, and midday.
- Hook Bait the Right Way: sometimes, anglers are not aware their bait has been mouthed by the tilapia fish. Use short lures rather than big lures so you can get a strong hook and ensure the tip of the hook is exposed. Some good tip if you’re a beginner is to take time to practice how to hook various lures.
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When you’ve successfully caught a tilapia fish, handle the hooked fish with care. You want to avoid tearing the fragile mouth of the tilapia off the hook. We suggest you delay about 5 seconds to set the hook as the fish fight before bringing up the fish rod.
How to Make Dough Bait for Tilapia?
You can use this simple recipe for dough bait to better your chances of catching big tilapia:
The ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup of flour
- 1/2 cup of cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Mix the flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients. Stir it constantly. Mix everything until it forms a dough that’s firm and pliable but not sticky.
3. Divide the dough into small balls. You can keep a golf ball in mind when thinking about size.
4. Use the raw dough balls on your hook!
Note: Be sure to use fresh, high-quality dough balls as bait. Old or stale dough balls may be less effective at attracting fish.
How Do You Catch Big Tilapia?
You can up your chances of catching big tilapia if you use the right bait, fishing techniques, and equipment. Here are some tips to help you:
Use The Right Bait: Tilapia are opportunistic feeders. This means they’ll eat just about anything they get! Dough bait, worms, and corn are all effective.
Use a Heavier Weight: Tilapia are not the strongest fish. Typically, using heavy weights is not necessary. But if you want to catch the big ones, you need to get your bait down to the bottom where the bigger tilapia roam.
Use a Longer Rod: You do not need a heavy-duty rod to catch tilapia, but a long one can give you more leverage.
Use The Right Fishing Techniques: Tilapia are more active during the early morning and late afternoon. These are the best times to go after the big ones. You should also use moving bait. A slow, steady retrieve can help you catch bigger fish.
Note: Be patient when trying to catch tilapia, especially the big ones. Keep your bait in the water for as long as possible, and be ready to set the hook when you feel a bite.
How Do You Fish for Tilapia in a Pond?
Fishing tilapia in a pond slightly differs from fishing in a lake or river. While you can still use the same bait and technique, your fishing equipment will change:
Use a Lighter Weight: Ponds aren’t as deep. You don’t need a heavyweight to sink your bait. Light weights will help keep your bait flowing more naturally in the water and make it appealing to the fish.
Use a Shorter Rod: A short rod will be easier to maneuver in a pond and allow you to quickly set the hook if you feel a bite.
How Big Is The Tilapia Fish?
There are many tilapia species. Each varies in size. The environment they live in and their diet also greatly influence how big they grow. Typically, these fish range from 6 to 12 inches. Some species are known for being bigger, and lengths of up to 2 feet have been recorded.
How Much Does a Tilapia Fish Weight?
Tilapia fish vary in weight. Generally, these fish weigh between 0.5 and 1.5 pounds. Species that grow larger can weigh up to 3 pounds. Factors like sex, age, and overall health influence this.
Can You Use Tilapia as Fishing Bait?
Tilapia is not a good fishing bait. It’s also not typically used. This fish is not known as an effective fish in attracting other fish commonly sought after by anglers.
When used live, tilapia is bony, and predators prefer easier meals. If they do attack, they usually go for the stomach and miss the hook. You can use cut-up tilapia pieces or fingerlings if you want to give this bait a go.
Better yet, use the bait known for attracting your target species. This usually includes worms, insects, and smaller fish species.
Tilapia Fishing Bait – Take Away
The best baits for tilapia as we outlined are peas, corn, bread balls, and earthworms. Apart from these baits, we recommend you follow our tips on how to successfully catch tilapia to increase your chances of catching tilapia.
Also, the best time to fish for the delicious tilapia is their spawning period. You should as well avoid getting close to their spawning beds so you don’t spook them. Remember they are the shy type of fish
An important note is to be aware if there is public free access to fishing in a particular fishing spot. In the United States, not all fishing locations are permitted angling.
FAQ’s
What is the best bait for catching tilapia?
Tilapia love to eat shrimp, crab legs, and worms. They are also known to eat some lures.
The best bait for catching tilapia are live minnows, because they are small and move in the water. The only problem with live minnows is that they must be cleaned and gutted before using them as bait. I usually use live minnows for night fishing, because it’s easier to find fish that come after night feeding. For day fishing I use dead minnows.
What will tilapia eat?
Tilapia are usually fed a diet of live food such as insects, worms and flake food. Some tilapia are also fed brine shrimp or blood worms. The food should be fed at intervals so that the fish does not get bored. Feeding Tilapia should be fed on a regular basis, but not every day.
Tilapia can survive for up to 4 months without food. However, the average lifespan of a tilapia is around 6 months. The food should be mixed into a specific proportion of water and poured into the aquarium. It should be added on top of the water. The food should be eaten by the fish within 30 minutes of being added. Tilapia should never be fed dry food as it will cause the tilapia to have stomach problems.
Is bread good fish bait?
Bread is a good bait for catching tilapia. It will keep the fish interested in the bait. You can use whole wheat, white, or any other type of bread.
Bread is an easy bait to make. Just cut the bread into pieces and put them in a bag with some cornmeal. Shake the bag until the bread is mixed together with the cornmeal. Tilapia are native to tropical and subtropical regions. They prefer to live in shallow water and they do not like to be too deep. The water temperature should be between 65 and 70 degrees. They are mainly nocturnal feeders and they can be found near the bottom of the river or lake.
Can I feed rice to tilapia?
The answer is yes, if you are a true believer in the theory of fish-meal substitution. It will help keep your fish healthier and give them the nutrition they need to grow at their full potential. It is not recommended to feed your tilapia more than twice a week.
How do I clean tilapia?
Tilapia is a fresh water fish and therefore has no “fishy” smell or taste. The best way to clean them is by brushing away any dirt or debris. Then rinse the fish well under cold running water.
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January 24, 2021
Know How Many Tilapia Per Gallon For An Aquaponics System
Are you wondering how many tilapia can fit per gallon? We will let you know in this post. Tilapia is one of the best and most popular fish to raise in aquaponics in the United States, especially for beginners. It is a fast-growing fish, easy to grow, hardy, and highly adaptive to its environment.
There have been many debates on how many gallons of water one can use for each tilapia. Well, this post is to enlighten you on how many tilapia per gallon of water you can stock in your aquaponics.
How Many Tilapia Can Fit Per Gallon
So the obvious question is: How many tilapia can fit per gallon of water? Well, you can fit one tilapia per gallon of water only if they are not grown fully.
- By Inch – Ideally, the general consensus rule for any fish is that 1 inch of fish will fit 1 gallon of a water tank. Therefore, let’s say you have a 4 inches tilapia fish; each tilapia will then need around 4 gallons of water.
- By Pounds – If you are measuring in pounds, then a pound of tilapia will fit 3 gallons of water. A tilapia that is fully grown will weigh around 1 pound. However, they can grow bigger and weigh more. Therefore, we can say 1 fully grown tilapia can fit 3 gallons of water or even 6 gallons of water.
Recommended Tilapia Aquaponics Tank Size
The tilapia aquaponics fish tank size recommended will solely depend on:
- The number of tilapia fish you plan to stock in your aquaponics.
- Also, the number of plants you wish to grow.
What most people do is begin with a tank of no less than 500 liters. 500 liters will give you around 130 gallons of water. This should give you adequate room for about 20 to 40 grown tilapia, depending on the size of the fish.
Another thing is to take into account the size of your plant beds. The more your plant beds are bigger, the more fish can fit in the very same 130 gallons of water tank.
5 Major Tilapia Needs
There are various species of tilapia and tilapia fish requirements are not so strenuous. Their basic needs include good water quality, food, light, oxygen, and adequate room to swim. Just provide your tilapia with these requirements and watch them grow healthy and faster.
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The beauty of tilapia farming is to comprehend each of these 5 needs. We have explained these requirements below:
1. Clean water or good water quality- If you plan to consume your tilapia, you should provide your tilapia fish tank with clean water which you would drink yourself. If you can’t drink the water you are supplying your fish then it’s not worth giving them such water. Supply them with safe private clean water. If possible, purchase a water softener, a reverse osmosis system, or a nitrate remover. This way, you keep the water in a condition that your body can consume safely when you consume these fish.
2. Oxygen – Your tilapia fish will need adequate aeration and water circulation. Make use of air pumps and water which will allow the water to have adequate oxygen to suit your aquatic animals.
3. Food – Supply your tilapia fish with good food and as well avoid overfeeding and remove uneaten or wasted food. Remove the foods that are not eaten after about 30 minutes and make some adjustments to the next portion of food. This way, the uneaten or wasted foods do not rot inside the system to cause harm to your tilapia fish. Rotten foods can cause disease so you want to avoid such.
Note that during the early stage of tilapia, they eat more than their body weight per day. However, as they grow, their food consumption reduces.
4. Light – Tilapia requires adequate light to thrive. The deficiency of light will not allow them to move or even eat, and as such, they can die. Thus, provide your tilapia fish with light.
5. Adequate room to swim – Though tilapia can withstand a crowded environment better than other species of fish, however, there is a limit to this. Too crowded tilapia fish can drain the shared oxygen supply rapidly. Oxygen deprivation in tilapia fish can cause stress and harm the organs and other sensitive parts of the fish.
Check out Where to Buy Fish for Aquaponics
FAQ’s
How many tilapia can go in a 100 gallon tank?
Tilapia are actually pretty easy to start with, but you should get them as adults. They will be a bit bigger when you get them. They need to eat, and they eat a lot. You want at least one male and one female. Males will fight for a harem of females, so you want to make sure you have at least one male and one female in your tank. You will also want to add a few more plants than that, but I’d say about 6-8 is a good number. The most important thing is to get a really good water conditioner like a Marineland, AquaClear, or similar product.
Will tilapia reproduce in aquaponics?
Tilapia can reproduce in an Aquaponic system.
You need to be careful not to over-stress them. The Tilapia will have the best chance of survival if you provide a large enough area for them to live and grow in. The more surface area they have to swim around in the tank, the better. Aquaponics is a combination of aquaculture and hydroponics. It has been around since the late 1950’s but was only recently rediscovered in the USA.
Aquaponics uses a recirculating water system with a closed loop where the fish waste and other nutrients from the fish tanks are used to feed plants in the hydroponic beds. The plant wastes are then returned to the fish tank to be filtered and reused. It works great for small fish like tilapia but I would not recommend it for larger fish.
How do you start an aquaponic system?
The first step is to choose your fish. If you’re new to aquaponics, it’s a good idea to start with a simple system with just one fish, such as the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). The European seabass is easy to keep and will provide nutrients for your plants. They’re also small enough to fit into a 4 litre tank. If you already have a fish tank, you can use it as an aquaponic system. In this case, you’ll need to find a way of transferring the fish waste from the tank into the growing bed. You could use a pump and a pipe or siphon to transfer the water. Or you could set up a filter system. You’ll need to find a way to clean the tank every day or two and change the water.
How Many Tilapia Can I Put in a 50-gallon Tank?
Tilapia fish are highly tolerant of sibling density. This means that they can withstand a lot of other fish in the tank at the same time. However, you have to remember that they do need quite a bit of space to swim around without bumping into each other and potentially getting damaged by rubbing against each other.
Depending on the size of the fish, you can fit anywhere between 10 and 12 pounds of tilapia. To make sure that your fish are comfortable and have enough space to maneuver around the tank, work out the appropriate stocking density based on the size of your fish.
How Many Tilapia Can Go in a 55-gallon Tank?
The general rule of thumb with stocking tilapia is that for every pound of tilapia you need three gallons of water. So before stoking your 55-gallon tank, determine the total weight of the fish you want to go into. From this weight, work out 3 gallons per pound to see how many you can fit in your tank.
Also, remember that your tilapia will grow so you will need to make space provisions to allow them to still have sufficient space to grow, do not completely saturate the tank.
How Many Tilapia Can Be Raised in a 250-gallon Tank?
The number of tilapia that you can grow in a 250-gallon depends on other factors as well. A 250-gallon tank is quite a substantial size tank so you can have a bit of fun with the fish in it. If you can ensure that you have sufficient aeration and an efficient biofiltration system, you can stock more fish and be secure that the filtration system will be able to handle the volume of waste that is generated by the fish.
The maximum number of tilapia that can be raised in a 250-gallon tank, working on the three gallons for every pound rule of thumb is about 83 pounds of fish. You will obviously need to consider the size of your fish before confirming this number.
How Many Tilapia in a 1000-gallon Tank?
Sticking with the three gallons of water for every pound of tilapia, you can safely and efficiently keep and grow about 333 pounds of tilapia in a 1000-gallon tank. Because you have ample space in this tank, it may be wise and even make your tank look better if you put larger or mature tilapia. You will be able to enjoy your fish more because they are more visible, you could even get tilapia of different colors for that extra pop of color and vibrancy in your tank.
How Many Tilapia Can I Put in a 275-gallon Tank?
The maximum number of tilapia that you can keep in a 275-gallon tank is 91 pounds. Stocked at this density, your tilapia will have the best chance of survival and will grow efficiently without having to compete for space and resources with the other fish in the tank because they will all be sufficiently provided for.
How Many Tilapia in a 20-gallon Tank?
How many tilapia you can put in a 20-gallon tank depends on what you intend to do with them. The maximum number you can keep depends on how much your fish weigh, just make sure that you keep it to 6 or fewer pounds in the tank. If you want your tilapia to grow more efficiently in this 20-gallon tank, stock them at a lower density and feed them more.
How Many Tilapia Can You Have in a 200-gallon Tank?
A 200-gallon tank can accommodate a maximum of 67 pounds of tilapia. With efficient oxygenation and filtration in the tank, your tilapia will be very happy.
Final Say on How Many Tilapia Per Gallon
Now, we know 1 inch of tilapia fish can fit per gallon of water. Also, a fully grown pound of tilapia can fit 3 to 6 gallons of water.
Ensure you always keep an eye on the water quality frequently. Also, always monitor and adjust the quantity of food you supply your tilapia fish.
January 16, 2021
How Often Should You Water A Vegetable Garden
One essential aspect of growing a vegetable garden is watering. If you’re a gardener and you’re wondering how often you should water a vegetable garden, we will let you know in this post.
Almost all vegetables consist mainly of water; as such, water is an essential element for its growth. Overwatering or under watering your vegetable garden can be detrimental to their growth. This is why you should know the adequate amount of water needed for your vegetable plant.
Get To Know How Often You Should Water Your Vegetable Garden
The rate at which you should water your vegetable garden will depend on your veggies’ watering needs. This is because crops vary in the quantity of water required.
Type of Plant: larger veggies will require daily or more watering. On the other hand, smaller veggies will need less watering.
Type of Root: even though most vegetables are shallow-rooted, you should know that shallow-rooted veggies will require more watering rather than deeply rooted veggies.
Stage of Plant: young seedlings need to be watered frequently to thrive.
Learn more about How to Clone a Plant with Water
Gardening Tips To Know How Much To Water Your Vegetable Garden
Generally, you should water your vegetable garden one to two inches per week. However, the amount of water you supply your vegetable garden will vary depending on some factors.
Taking into account these factors will let you know how much influence they will have on your watering schedule. Also, comprehending these circumstances will make watering your vegetable garden less stressful.
Factors to Consider When Watering Vegetable Gardens
So below are the factors to consider when deciding on how often you water your vegetable garden:
- Climate: your surrounding climate will determine how often you should water your vegetable garden. For instance, a hot or dry climate will need frequent watering. On the other hand, rainy seasons will require less watering. Watering lesser or more considering the climatic factor may increase the likelihood of overwatering or underwatering which will not be good for your vegetable plants.
- Indoor Potted or Outdoor Vegetable Plants: another factor to consider when watering your vegetable plant is if you plant indoors or outdoors. Potted indoor plants will need less watering. Especially potted plants with no drainage hole as the soil in their container will hold more water. On the other hand, outdoor watering will depend on your surrounding climate
- Quality and Type of Soil: the quality and type of soil is another factor to consider. You should also know the type of soil you have. If your soil is sandy, you will water more but not too much. While clay soil will need less watering because of its ability to hold water. Also, excellent quality soil will increase the chance of water holding capacity. A great way to enhance the quality of your soil is to apply compost or add mulch to your soil.
- Variety or Type of Vegetable: you need to know the variety of your vegetable plants so you can determine how much watering is required. You should take into account the types of vegetables such as size, roots, etc.
Ways of Watering Your Vegetable Garden
Now that we’ve listed some factors to consider when watering, we can now proceed to list ways on how you should water a vegetable garden.
- Water Deeply: water should be applied at least 5 to 6 inches into the soil. Your veggies should be watered 2 or 3 times weekly.
- Make Use of a Drip Irrigation System: drip irrigation will allow you to set your timer and it allows you water-specific parts of your vegetable plants. You also know how much water goes into your vegetable garden. Therefore, it gives you total control of the total volume of water going into your vegetables.
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- Water Early in the Morning: watering your vegetable plants early morning is a good thing. This way, you don’t lose water due to evaporation during the days and your plant will have the chance of absorbing adequate water. However, if you’re unable to water early morning, another good option is to water at night or late afternoon. Just make sure the sun is down when watering.
- Hand Watering: hand watering is a slow way of releasing water. Watering your veggies with a slow stream is better than a fast stream because it will prevent water runoff in your garden.
FAQ’s
Should I water vegetable garden every day?
If you are growing vegetables in your garden, it is important to remember that your soil needs moisture. Too much or too little water will affect the health of your plants and their ability to produce fruit. If you plan to grow vegetables from seed, you should also remember to water them daily. The following are some guidelines for watering your garden: Use a rain gauge. Most rain gauges have a 1 inch or 2 inch tube that you can put into a bucket of water.
When the gauge fills up, this tells you how much water fell on your yard during the past 24 hours. Watering your yard every day, whether it rains or not, is very important. It helps prevent weeds and keeps your soil from drying out too fast. If you use a rain gauge, keep an eye on it so that you don’t over water. This could cause problems with your garden. Try to use a rain gauge that can be easily read from a distance. If you live in a hot climate, it is important to water your garden when the temperature is above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can you overwater a vegetable garden?
Yes, you can overwater a vegetable garden. It’s a bit of an art, and I would only recommend doing it with a good reason. You should never do it to just make the vegetables grow faster. The first thing you need to know is that it’s really hard to tell when your soil is wet or dry. Most people think that it’s only a problem when the water runs off the sides of the pots, but that’s not really true.
If your plants are growing fine in the pots but they start to rot because their roots are too wet, then you have overwatered them. If you have a very small garden and you overwater all of your plants, then you might be able to tell if it’s getting too wet or not. However, if you have a big garden and you do this, it’s really hard to know how much water you’re giving your plants. If you have vegetable garden in raised beds, you can tell whether the soil is wet or dry right away. When you first put your raised bed together, you can fill it with some good composted soil. This will help keep the soil in the raised bed from becoming too wet. You can also add some sand to the bottom of the bed to help hold the soil together. The problem with raised beds is that it’s harder to water them. This is because when the rain comes, it runs right off of the sides of the raised bed and down into the ground.
What is the best way to water a vegetable garden?
Watering is not always an easy task, but it is necessary for healthy plants.
The amount of water depends on the type of plant and its age. For example, if you have young plants, you should provide more water than older ones. If you want to grow vegetables in a container, then you should add a layer of pebbles to increase the water retention.
The best way to water is to water deeply, especially when you are growing vegetables. You can also water every day or every two days. It depends on the type of plant and the amount of time it takes for them to grow. For example, if you have tomatoes, you should water them once every three days. First, remove any weeds from around the plants. Next, add some gravel to the bottom of the container. If the container has soil, then you can add it to the container.
Final Note
You should also observe your vegetable plants and soil as they can let you know if you are watering them adequately.
For instance, if you notice your vegetable leaves are wilting, it’s a sign watering is needed. Also, you can check some inches deep into the soil to feel for dryness or moisture.
Nevertheless, how often you water your vegetable garden is really easy to do if you simply follow our outlined tips.
January 16, 2021
Where To Buy Fish For Aquaponics System
Aquaponics has grown quite popular these past few years as more people are venturing into it. You enjoy so many benefits from using aquaponics. If you are thinking of where to buy fish for your aquaponics, we will let you know in this post.
As a farmer, engaging in aquaponics will yield great rewards as you will enjoy – 8 times crop production, reduction in waste, reduction in chemical use, and a whole lot of benefits.
Fish is an important component of the aquaponics system and below are the places you can buy fish for aquaponics.
Where To Buy Fish For Aquaponics
You can buy aquaponics fish from the following:
1. Fish Farm
You can buy fish for your aquaponics at a local fish farm near you.
2. Reliable Stores Online
You can as well buy fish for your aquaponics from a reliable online store. It is absolutely possible to have a live fish transported to your doorstep. Just make sure you choose a reliable online store that has a guarantee. Also, you should make sure you’re home when your packed live fish is delivered to you. Don’t allow it to linger on your front porch.
If you won’t be home, you can at least make available someone that will receive your live fish. This is so the live fish can be immediately put in their appropriate conditions at once for the most appropriate health conditions.
You should also have in mind that not all fish are legal to purchase in some regions. Ensure you make adequate findings from your local fish farming laws about the type of fish you wish to buy. Make sure they are legal to purchase.
Where you can buy fish for aquaponics:
Some Info About Aquaponics
Let’s take a quick look at what an aquaponics system entails. Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics cultivation. To set up an aquaponics system, you will need four main components which include – a tank, a grow bed, a fish, and plants.
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The fish in your aquaponics system contributes greatly because they will be the primary source of nutrient for your cultivated plants. The plants as well play a part in taking up waste produced by the fishes. Setting up a great and rewarding aquaponics system will require you to take into accounts some factors.
Choosing The Best Fish For Aquaponics
Selecting and paring the right type of fish with your vegetables is very crucial. This will ensure the success of your aquaponics setup and you will enjoy abundant yield. Below are some recommended fish you can buy for your aquaponics.
Recommended Fish To Buy For Aquaponics
Here are the fish we recommend you can buy for your aquaponics:
- Tilapia: The edible tilapia is the most popular and common fish spices used especially for beginners in aquaponics. It is the most accessible fish to purchase in most parts of the world. Tilapia fish is hardy, very adaptable, and resistant to many parasites and pathogens.
- Salmon: This is another great edible healthy fish for your aquaponics. Salmon is hardy and they can co-exist in a friendly manner with other fish. The downside is that tilapia is not so resistant to disease as other fish.
- Koi: the attractive koi fish is an ornamental fish. Although it is not edible, it is a great fish for your aquaponics as they are resistant to parasite and disease, has a long life span, and can thrive in a wide range of temperatures.
- Trout: trout is a very easy fish to raise in your aquaponics. They are delicious fish to eat and filled with healthy food benefits such as omega fatty acids and proteins.
- Catfish: another great edible fish you can buy for your aquaponics is catfish. Catfish is a very hardy and easy fish to raise especially for beginners and resistant to many parasites and diseases.
FAQ’s
What is the best fish to use for aquaponics?
Tilapia is the best fish recommended for this purpose. In aquaponics the primary concern is that the fish don’t eat each other. So, the more “aggressive” the fish, the better. But this isn’t always the case, because there are some fish that will attack a larger fish in order to defend their territory.
The system will be used as a food source and also for keeping frogs. The water will be kept at 75 degrees. Aquaponic systems are really quite simple. They consist of two main parts:.the grower (fish) and the filter (composting). The grower is fed organic waste, and the waste from the fish is collected in a container and is then composted. Fish can eat the waste from the system and do not need to be cleaned.
What are some advantages of aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a system where a combination of fish and plants are grown together. The plants provide the nutrients that the fish need, and the fish clean the water for the plants. Aquaponic systems are very simple to build and maintain, and require little maintenance. They are also very low cost compared to other methods of growing fish and plants together.
This means that you can have a system with fish, and use the same tank for the plants. Fish do not have to be separated from plants to grow them together. You can keep your plants and fish in the same container, and the fish will clean the water for your plants. You can feed your plants using the fish waste. The fish waste contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are needed by the plants. When the plants are finished, you can harvest the plants and use them as fertilizer for your garden. You can use the fish waste to fertilize your plants. If you have a pond, you can use it to grow your plants.
How big of a tank do you need for aquaponics?
I would recommend at least 50 gallons.
If you are new to aquaponics, you will most likely start out with a smaller system. The first thing to think about is your available space and the amount of food you would like to grow in your system. There are several different sized tanks that will work for you depending on how much food you want to grow and what size of fish you have.
Aquaponic systems are the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics (a type of indoor farming). The aquaculture part is harvesting fish, like tilapia, in a tank. The fish poop out nutrients that the plants can absorb. The hydroponics part is growing plants in water, without soil. They get their nutrients from the water.
The system combines both systems, so you have the benefits of each. It’s a win-win. In an aquaponic system, the fish poop out the nutrients, which then gets absorbed by the plants.
Final Note
Buying and selecting the appropriate fish for your aquaponics is crucial for the success of your aquaponics. With aquaponics, you get to farm smarter as your plants grow faster and in plenty!
Another thing to note is that it’s important to maintain a clean and healthy environment for the aquaponics system. This way, your fish and plants get a chance to thrive and you reduce the risk of any diseases that can infect both your fish and plants.
We recommend you select fish that can flourish in your location and climate. Supply and feed your fish with the appropriate foods for both the health of your fish and plants and also for your consumption.
January 16, 2021
Aloe Vera Stem Too Long? How To Fix It
Now, you might have an Aloe Vera poking out of its soil because the stem is pretty tall. If you are concerned that your Aloe Vera stem is too long, we will tell you what to do.
Aloe vera plants are great for succulents both indoors and outdoors. They do well in containers, although you can also plant them directly into the soil.
As your Aloe Vera plant grows more prominent, you might have to report one way or the other. You might even face the situation of a stem that is too long, and you might wonder what you can do. We will give you some steps on solving an Aloe Vera Stem too long, so let’s begin.
What to Do if your Aloe Vera Stem too Long
When your aloe vera stem becomes too heavy and long, it might begin to tip over. Even supporting it with a stick to help it stand upright might not work because it might be too heavy. There are a couple of things you can do to solve these issues.
1. Repotting Leggy Aloe Vera
For a small potted that the Aloe Vera plant stem too long and shoots out below, you can simply add more soil to fill the pot. You can opt for this if you don’t want to repot. However, doing this will make your soil full to the brim. This can cause the soil to splash over when you water or when it rains.
You can simply repot. We will teach you two ways to repot your aloe vera plants when the stems get too long.
Method One – This method is for a small Aloe Vera plant.
- The first step in repotting your aloe vera plant is to remove it from its container and expose the soil.
- Gently take out all the soil.
- Next, cut the roots you see coming out of the base as you remove the soil.
- Place it back into the container (you can either use a new or the same old container).
- Now, fill up the container with fresh soil. Never use the old soil.
Method Two—This other method is for medium-sized and bigger-sized aloe vera plants. It is also less disturbing to the root of your aloe vera plant.
- Get a plastic container and make a big single round hole for drainage at the base of the plastic container. Ensure the hole at the base of the container is bigger than the stem size of your Aloe Vera plant. Now cut or slit the plastic container straight down at the side down to the bottom of the container drainage hole.
- Make some holes, some little holes side by side, at the side where you slit the plastic container straight down. This tiny hole allows you to thread and seal the pot back after you are done repotting.
- Now, take the cut container and wrap it around the bigger-sized potted Aloe Vera plant. Fit it on top of the more giant potted Aloe Vera plant and allow it to sit. Then, you can begin to thread upwards the cut holes you punctured so the plastic container can stay well.
- When you are done threading the second container, fill it with soil. Nurture this structured aloe vera for about a month. After a month, the aloe vera plant will have developed adequate roots to support the upper container. You can now proceed to cut off and remove the second lower pot.
2. Repot Deeper
Another method of repotting deeper is simply obtaining a deeper pot with some compost grains. The deeper pot will accommodate the length of the aloe vera stem. Fill up and bury your aloe vera plant with soil up to the first two or three leaves, depending on the length of your plant.
You can cut off some leaves below the plant stem to bury the stem deeper into the pot.
3. Cut and Repot
You can cut some parts of your Aloe Vera stem with a sharp knife and repot. Before repotting, allow the cut stem to dry out. It would be best if you also cut off or remove the lowest two leaves because when you bury your Aloe Vera plant, they will eventually rot off.
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How Long Are Aloe Plant Roots?
Aloe Veras have a shallow root system. They don’t need deep soil. You can plant your Aloe Vera in pots with a depth of 17 inches or more.
A wide container will work best. While these succulents don’t have deep roots, their roots grow outward. If you want a large aloe vera, you should plant it in a big pot.
How Long Do Aloe Vera Plants Grow?
Aloe Veras develop new leaves every 1 to 2 weeks. Under the right conditions, you’ll see growth every month. It will take about 4 years to reach maturity if your plant is just starting.
Indoor Aloe Vera plants typically reach leaf lengths of 12 to 24 inches. Those grown outdoors in optimal light, soil, and moisture conditions can reach lengths averaging 3 feet!
How Long Can an Aloe Plant Live Out of Soil?
An Aloe plant is extremely tough. While opinions on how long it can live out of soil differ, these plants are known to grow without ground. Aloe Veras do well when grown hydroponically in pebbles and water.
If you remove your Aloe Vera from the ground, most gardeners agree that it’ll live 1 – 2 days at room temperature before going bad. In more ideal temperatures, cutting can survive for weeks. One gardener claimed his Aloe cutting made it for almost a year!
If you keep your Aloe Vera cuttings moist and ensure it gets sunlight, they’ll live. Many people grow them indoors without soil. This succulent has many purposes. Growing them hydroponically can enhance their quality.
What Can I Do With Aloe Vera Stems?
Aloe Vera stems have multiple uses. You can use the gel inside them to tackle various health issues. It’s also an excellent ingredient in beauty routines. Simply cut the leaves open and scoop the gel out with a spoon.
You can use the gel on skin irritations or burn wounds. It works great for bug bites and sunburn too. If you keep the gel in your fridge, it’ll be soothing and cool when you apply it.
The gel inside an Aloe Vera stem can make your hair feel more moisturized. Massage the gel into your hair and scalp once a month (or more) and let it sit for an hour. After you’ve rinsed your hair, it’ll feel much better! You can also make a face mask or apply the gel inside the Aloe Vera stem to your feet.
Some people eat the Aloe Vera stems. The outer skin and gel inside are safe to consume. Ensure you thoroughly wash the skin before eating it. You can cook the Aloe Vera stems in boiling water to soften them or eat them raw.
How Long Should I Leave Aloe Vera In Water?
Aloe Vera is a drought-resistant succulent. You should never let it soak in water. This could lead to root rot and dying plants.
You can keep cutting from your Aloe Vera plant without water for a day. If you plan to eat the cuttings, leave them in water for 10 – 20 minutes beforehand.
Aloe Vera with too Long Stem Final Note
After you have finished repotting, don’t water immediately. Wait a couple of days before watering. Allow the newly transplanted Aloe Vera to settle down in its container. This way, your plant will recover well from the stress transplanting.

FAQ’s Aloe Vera Stem Too Long

What do I do if my aloe plant is too tall?

If your aloe vera plant is too tall,
Repot it in a bigger pot. When aloe plants start to divulge or protrude outside their container, you can also cut or trim down the size by removing the protruding leaves.

Use a sharp knife to trim the aloe plant in two portions and replant the upper portion. Don’t worry; doing this won’t harm your aloe plant. They will grow back better than before.

You should also know that one of the many reasons your aloe plant is growing tall is that it might not get adequate light. Therefore, indoor aloe plants will mostly grow tall because they have to reach out to light by growing tall and leggy. So, to avoid this, ensure you supply your indoor aloe plant with good sunlight or you can
feed them with grow light.

How do you grow aloe vera leaves thicker?
You can grow aloe vera leaves thicker by simply supplying them with a good amount of sunlight. Your aloe vera leaves might not grow thicker because they aren’t getting much sunlight.
Another thing you can do to make your aloe vera plant thicker is to ensure the pot you are using is not too big for the size of the aloe plant. The pot must also be tight. All succulents love to be pot-bound in a tight spot.
Can you regrow aloe from a leaf?
You can regrow aloe from a leaf. However, the best form of aloe propagation is from its pups or offsets, offering you a faster yield.
Do the following to grow an aloe leaf:

Get a pot, preferably a terracotta pot. Add your potting soil mix and lay the cut aloe vera leaf flat on the soil.
Push the leaf into the soil just a bit. Allow some parts to be exposed so they can get sunlight.
Water your aloe vera leaf and soil. Water the soil when it gets dry to prevent it from drying out.
You should begin to notice some sprouting after a few weeks.

Should you trim aloe plants?
It is advisable to trim your aloe plant when it is fully and bountifully grown. Trimming your fully grown aloe plant will help remove impaired and unnecessary parts and
encourage healthy aloe growth.
When trimming your aloe plants, always address the damaged leaves that are brown, dried, or dead. Always aim to trim a whole leaf at a time and refrain from cutting the leaves in half. After taking care of the bad leaves, you can then proceed to trim healthy leaves so your aloe plant can fit into the pot.
When should you repot an aloe plant?
You should repot an aloe plant when they grow bigger and outgrow the pot they are in. Also, repot your aloe plant when they begin to grow pups. Using the root ball size, obtain a new pot that 2 or 3 times bigger than the root.
December 21, 2020
Where To Buy Compost Tea And How To Apply It
There are lots of benefits to using compost tea in your garden. If you are wondering where to buy compost tea we have an answer for you here. We will let you know where you can buy compost tea and what your plants stand to benefit from it.
Compost tea is a blend of organic matter that will improve your soil with regard to appropriate soil wellness. Feeding your garden with compost tea is great. It will support plant growth and supply your plants with adequate nutrients.
What is Compost Tea
Compost tea is a mixture of liquid nutrients and beneficial, oxygen-loving microbes found in finished compost. These beneficial microorganisms include fungi, protozoa, nematodes, bacteria, and arthropods. The beneficial microbes are extracted from compost by the means of a brewing procedure. Accurate compost tea will consist of all the microorganisms present prior to brewing.
Read more about Compost Tea Feeding Schedule
Where to Buy Compost Tea
One place you can buy compost tea is in the stores. They are usually sold in powder form. They can be purchased in manufacturing industries and farms. You can also find them in big box stores such as Lowes, Home Depot, Walmart, etc.
You can also try some independent nurseries or garden centers. Compost tea can as well be bought online.
Another good option if you are willing to go through the stress is to make compost tea yourself. We have outlined below how you can prepare compost tea.
In any of these outlets listed above, they are usually sold in any of these three forms:
- The powder which is soluble needs to be mixed with water.
- Teabags (needs to be steeped in water).
- Liquid concentrate (needs to be diluted in water).
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How to Make Compost Tea, DIY
Preparing compost tea can be a bit messy but it’s quite simple to make. It will even be easier if you already make your own composting or vermicomposting.
First is to get matured compost and put about 5 handfuls of compost in a 5-gallon bucket. Now fill it up with water. Important note before using your water is to allow the water to sit for about 24 hours. In case you use chlorinated water, it will evaporate out. You don’t want to kill all the helpful bacteria and microbes.
You can now use a stick to mix or stir if you don’t want to use a bubbler. As you mix up your compost tea, you unlock all the water-soluble nutrients. Then allow the mixture to sit for about 24 to 48 hours so they can get strong and nutritious for your plants.
You can stir again after a couple of hours like in the morning and evening. This way it can get some nice aeration.
Now your compost tea should be ready in a day or two and you can go ahead and apply them. You can use a watering can, spray bottle, or pump spray for application. You can also deliver it to the base of your plant as a soil drench for deeper penetration.
Applying Compost Tea Correctly
Compost tea should be applied on cool and clear days with temperatures above freezing and below 80 degrees Fahrenheit. So apply them early morning or late evening. Never apply during the day with too much heat so you don’t kill all the beneficial microbes. Plants that will mostly benefit from compost tea applications are flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
Compost tea applications during the transplanting period will boost your plant defense mechanism against pathogens and pest disease. It can as well be applied to seedlings or plants that are established at their growing seasons.
Benefits of Using Compost Tea
Your garden will enjoy lots of benefits from compost tea. Therefore, these benefits include:
- Compost tea comprises of higher concentration of helpful microorganisms. They will improve the protection mechanism of your plants against any form of disease, pest as well as erosion.
- It is natural organic plant food. On the contrary to synthetic fertilizers containing chemicals that can harm the plant ecosystem or cause fertilizer burns.
- Compost tea will boost the capacity of your soil to retain water.
- It can be used directly on plant leaves as well as soil, unlike solid compost that can only be applied to the soil.
FAQ’s
What makes good compost tea?
Compost tea is a liquid fertilizer made from the decomposition of organic matter in the form of compost. You can collect organic matter from your home, such as food scraps, leaves, coffee grounds, grass clippings, eggshells, and wood. It’s also a good idea to collect materials from outside, such as grass clippings, weeds, and leaves.
Compost tea is a natural, organic way to get rid of unwanted garden pests. It is made by adding a small amount of compost to water and letting it sit for about two weeks. Compost tea is an environmentally friendly way to get rid of garden pests. It does not contain any pesticides and is safe for people and animals to drink.
What kinds of nutrients should it contain?
It contains nutrients that are essential for plant growth, including nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, and trace elements like calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, manganese, and sulfur.
How do I use compost tea?
Compost tea is a simple and easy way to add nutrients back into your garden soil. Compost tea can be used for everything from fertilizing to keeping plants healthy. To make compost tea, mix one part compost with three parts water. This mixture should be stirred or shaken until it is well combined. You can also use a spray bottle to apply the compost tea directly to the soil in your garden.
When you use compost tea in your garden, make sure that it is diluted properly. This will prevent the tea from running off your plants and causing problems. You can dilute compost tea by adding five times as much water as compost to the mixture. For example, if you mix one cup of compost with five cups of water, the mixture will have a 5:1 ratio. If you have a spray bottle, this will be even easier.
You can also use compost tea for indoor plants. Make sure to dilute the compost tea enough so that the solution does not burn your plants. You can use one part compost to three parts water in the case of indoor plants. If you do this, you will need to spray the plants regularly, but it will still be a good alternative to using commercial fertilizers. Compost tea is a great way to improve the health of your garden soil.
It can be applied to your garden or lawn by mixing it with water at a ratio of 1 part tea to 5 parts water.
Additional Note
You can water your plants with compost tea about once a week. Therefore, apply and water your plant with compost tea as often as you want. They will never burn your plants and they will generate adequate nutrients for your plant growth.
You can water your established fruits or vegetables directly with compost tea. No need to be disturbed about introducing toxins to your diet because compost tea is completely organic and safe.
December 21, 2020
How Long Do Succulents Take To Grow From Seeds?
Succulent are lovely plants with various colors and shapes. They are easy to maintain and they are awesome for decorating your home. It won’t be a bad idea if you tried an experiment growing succulents from seeds. Now, you might also want to know how long succulents take to grow from seeds. We will cover that in this guide.
Growing succulents from seeds are exciting and pretty rewarding. You just need to have a little patience. With so many varieties of succulents, you get to experiment with various combinations with just a little amount of money.
How Long Do Succulents Grow From Seeds
There are some things to consider to determine how long succulents take to grow from seeds and they include:
- Variety of seeds: how long succulents take to grow from seeds will depend on different varieties of the seeds obtained.
- Germination period: each variety has its germination periods. Therefore make sure you are aware of the germination period before you purchase your seeds.
- Temperature and sunlight: also, temperature and sunlight will determine how long your succulents take to grow from seeds.
Depending on all these criteria listed, the period succulents may take to grow from seeds can be about 3 days to a few weeks. Others might even take as much as months to a year to grow.
Therefore, it is essential you make some inquiries before purchasing your seeds. This way you can plan and look forward to the growing time: the reason being that you have to plan during the growing period. You have to monitor your plant closely to check the moisture, weather, and so on.
Also, this will prevent you from taking them out from the soil too early to transplant if you are growing outdoors. If you choose a good variety and keep the conditions germination clean, you will start to notice the leaves making an appearance (sprouts).
Easy Succulents Varieties To Grow From Seeds and Their Growing Period
Here are a few examples of the easy varieties of succulents to grow and their growing period:
1. Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is one of the most popular and loved succulents. The seeds of Aloe Vera do sprout easily all you need is a clean and well-draining medium. You can grow them in a container indoors by creating controlled surroundings for your seedlings. You can also grow them outdoors if you live in a warm environment. Depending on the varieties you choose, it may take about 2 to 4 weeks for sprouting to emerge.
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2. Jade: jade which is grown as a houseplant hardly flowers. However, when planted on the ground, you might be lucky to see a bloom of pink flowers during spring. The best time to sow your jade seed is during spring or summer. It can grow about 3 to 6 inches. Jade plants are slow growers and they can grow as slow as two inches in a year.
3. Echeveria: it can take about 2 or 3 weeks for the seeds of echeveria to start emerging. However, they can also take months to germinate depending on the variety. So, in case you don’t notice any sprout immediately, no worries. Have some patience, it does take time. If you using a container, their seedlings can stay along time in the container until you’re ready to repot. You can transplant the seedlings to their containers once you notice about 3 or 5 growths of true leaves.
4. Sedum: with the right conditions, the sedum succulent can take about 2 weeks to 4 weeks for germination to occur. The best period to sow sedum seed is in spring or summer. Once the seedlings have germinated enough, you can proceed to transplant them into individual pots.
FAQ’s
How do you grow succulents from seeds?
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for succulents, and it is a very simple and rewarding process.
Here’s the basic process: Take a small amount of seed, moisten it with water, and plant it in soil.
You can germinate seeds indoors. They should be kept in a warm, dark place like a cupboard or closet with the door closed. If you have a windowsill with adequate light, it’s not necessary to keep the seeds in the dark.
Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. The word “succulent” comes from Latin, meaning “sucking” or “gurgling”. The most common succulents are cacti and succulents, which are easily distinguished by the spiny nature of the plants. Cacti have spikes of spines, whereas succulents tend to have soft, fleshy leaves with a waxy coating. Some succulents have an “umbrella”-like growth pattern with multiple layers of leaves. There are many different types of succulents.
How long does it take for succulents to fully grow?
They should be growing very fast. It varies depending on the variety of course. For example, the one I use most often is called “Thea” and it is a medium sized plant. It is about 6 inches in height. You can expect it to grow at least 3-4 inches per month. That’s why I would recommend starting with smaller plants. They grow much faster.
There’s no way to guarantee that your plants will grow faster, but there are some things you can do to help.
Some common mistakes when growing succulents: not getting enough light, not watering often enough and planting the wrong type of succulent
How do you grow succulents successfully?
Evergreen succulents are very easy to grow. They require little water and are hardy plants. They are available in various sizes and sizes. They can be easily grown indoors or outdoors. Succulents are very popular among indoor gardeners because they are easy to grow and require little maintenance. They can survive in different conditions. Succulents can be divided into two groups: evergreen and deciduous. Evergreen succulents don’t lose their leaves even if they are cut off. On the other hand, deciduous succulents lose their leaves if they are cut off. You need to know which type of succulent you want to grow before starting your garden.
If you want to grow succulents, you should first think about your climate. If you live in a cold country, you should choose cacti, aloe vera and agaves. If you live in a warm country, you should choose succulents that prefer warm climates. For example, if you want to grow aloe vera, you need to use a very different technique than if you want to grow aeonium or agave. You should also know that different types of succulents need different temperatures. Aloe vera and agave need temperatures between 18°C and 22°C during the day and between 15°C and 18°C at night. Succulents that are hardy plants don’t lose their leaves even if they are cut off.
Succulent Seeds Additional Information
All your succulent seeds will grow in the appropriate conditions. Bear in mind as you germinate succulent seeds; ensure you keep a sterile medium or soil mix to prevent your baby plants from diseases and death. The medium can be sterilized by microwaving it for about 3 minutes or so.
If you are making use of containers to grow your succulent seeds, they need to be sterilized also. The containers can be sterilized by cleaning them with alcohol or simply washing it with boiling water.
Also, when your succulents are ready to be potted individually or changed into a bigger pot, ensure you do so gently. Succulents are pretty tender and they need to be handled delicately. You wouldn’t want to jeopardize and injure your succulents after all the hard work you must have put into them.
December 20, 2020
Maggots In Compost Good Or Bad?
So let’s talk about maggot in your compost. You might be the one that freaks out when you see maggot in your compost. But they are not so bad and they can’t hurt you.
Actually, they are pretty useful in breaking down waste in your compost pile. They will even make decomposition faster and they will help in recycling nutrients back into the soil.
What is a Compost Maggot?
Compost maggots are actually the black soldier fly larvae. Black soldier fly (BSF) are simply normal housefly. When these flies settle on your compost, they lay their eggs and result in larvae (maggot). The maggot may be white, grayish, or brownish and segmented depending on what your compost consists of.
The segmented maggots are as long as one inch to one and a half inch. The maggots are born from black soldier fly eggs right into the food waste especially in conditions that are damp. They feed on the nitrogen-dominant decaying matter such as scraps from your kitchen and manures.
Black soldier flies do well in a warm environment with a temperature of about 80 to 90 degrees. However, when the temperature reaches above 100 degrees, they will lose their strength and die off.
The Usefulness of Maggot in Your Compost
Those tiny black soldier flies which are maggots are like devouring beasts. They can consume a huge amount of food scrapes faster than you can imagine. Thus, they will make the decomposition of your compost fast. And if you are concerned they might show up in your home, not too worry. That won’t happen only if you place your compost pile is close to your window.
In the southern part of the United States, these maggots are been used to decrease hog manure. This is because they are capable of consuming as much as 30 tons of hog manure in just two days.
So, you can even place your compost outdoor far away from your house, and not worry about getting rid of them for a long time. The mission is to reduce waste!
Matter of fact, some farmers go ahead and cultivate these black soldier larvae and sell them to pet stores. They are very high in protein and are excellent foods for birds, lizards, and even fish.
Read about Best Compost Products Suppliers on the Market Today
Eliminating Maggot in Your Compost Bin
As we have mentioned earlier, maggot in your compost is beneficial. However, if you can’t stand them and you want to get rid of them. You can do the following:
- Add Dry Material into your Compost: because these maggots thrive in damp environments, adding dry materials such as browns will prevent them from emerging. Add dry materials such as dry grass, dry leaves, shredded papers, and cardboards and cover them at least two to four inches. This will create a dryer environment and also cover the nitrogen food source. This is because it is this exposed nitrogen food materials the female soldier loves to lay their eggs on.
- Bury Food Scraps: if it is a compost bin or a worm bin you have, bury the food scrap right at the bottom (at least 6 inches) of the pile. Also, ensure they are well covered.
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- Reduce Flies by Covering Holes with Window Screen: if you are able to prevent flies from entering your compost, they won’t lay eggs and you will have no maggots. Therefore, cover every hole with a window screen and hold it down with a waterproof filter or seal.
- Apply Lime to your Compost: you can add lime to your compost to deter these black fly larvae. However, adding lime to your compost can interfere with the pH. It can make the pH too high when it’s done composting. Even though lime also helps in the breakdown of compost, it is usually not needed. But you can add lime if your compost is acidic so as to make your compost slightly alkaline. Also, the amount of lime added should not exceed one cup per 25 material feet.
In the end, these maggots in your compost will die and their bodies will decompose. They will in the due process leave behind thick and rich components for your soil use.
FAQ’s
Do maggots ruin compost?
Maggots are not bad for compost and you can use them if you would like. They eat dead plant matter and help break down the material. I have had my compost pile for a few months and the compost is still active. However, if you notice any maggots around your compost pile, then there is too much moisture or your pile is too big. I just found out that maggots can also be used to control pests in soil. They are most commonly used as a biological pest control agent (BPCA) for termite management. I did not know this until recently.
Are maggots good for compost?
Maggots are tiny fly larvae that feed on organic matter such as decaying animal flesh, plant material and manure. They are commonly used in agriculture as a natural means of pest control.
They can be used as a natural insecticide and they will eat most types of pests.
Benefits of using maggots in the garden
They help to break down organic matter: Maggots eat all kinds of waste, including plant material and manure. They are especially useful when breaking down manure, which may not be able to decompose on its own. If you use compost that has been left too long, you can add maggots to help break it down. This is especially useful if you have a lot of manure to deal with, as the larvae can eat large amounts of manure in just a few weeks. They are also useful for gardeners who have a lot of manure or waste to dispose of. You can use maggots to help break down manure and other organic matter.
They eat all kinds of waste: Maggots can eat anything from food scraps to leaves to fruit husks. This makes them useful for gardeners who have a wide variety of waste that they need to get rid of.
In fact, they’re so versatile that you may find yourself using them in more than one way. For example, you could use them to get rid of waste in your garden while also making fertilizer.
They’re also useful when it comes to breaking down manure and other organic waste: When they’re ready to pupate, maggots will leave the waste behind. The pupae will then hatch into adult flies. This is how they turn your organic waste into compost. It is very important to know when the larvae are ready to pupate. This is where you will have to pay close attention to their development.
You can help maggots to break down manure: If you have a lot of manure that you want to get rid of, you can use maggots to help break it down. You can either add them directly to the manure or place them in a bin with the manure.
You can also use them to help break down other organic matter: If you’re dealing with waste that is hard to break down on its own, you can use maggots to help. You can either place the waste directly into a bin with the maggots or you can place them in a container with the waste and then bury it. This helps to break down the waste and to make fertilizer out of it.
Maggots can be used in many ways: Maggots are versatile. They can be used in a variety of ways. One way that you can use maggots is to help you to get rid of waste. You can either place the waste directly into a bin with the maggots or you can place them in a container with the waste and then bury it.
You can also use them to help break down manure and other organic matter: When they’re ready to pupate, maggots will leave the waste behind. The pupae will then hatch into adult flies.
How do I get rid of maggots in my compost bin?
I have a big pile of compost that’s ready to be turned. It has been sitting for a month or so. I noticed maggots in the pile and now I’m seeing them in the garden too. The compost is not sitting on top of soil but it is sitting on the ground with a little dirt underneath it. I don’t know how to get rid of them. What can I do? A:
You should take a shovel and remove all the compost. Remove all the dirt and replace it with fresh dirt. This will help to kill the larvae.
If the larvae are still active, you can mix the compost with other dirt and replace the dirt with fresh dirt. This will help to kill the larvae.
You can use a light bulb to kill the larvae.
You can wait and see if they die on their own.
This should be done right away so that they do not contaminate the soil underneath. Maggots are not harmful to your plants but they are bad for your compost. They eat the compost and they cause the compost to become smelly.
Conclusion
Maggot might be disgusting and gross to behold. But you should consider the good they do to your compost. Think of it, you put a big pound of waste in your bin. A couple of hours later, the waste has reduced drastically.
After the black soldier larvae are done with your compost pile, they will crawl out and vanish. During this process, they can become food to birds and other little animals.
December 20, 2020
Tips To Successfully Starting A Microgreen Business
Alright, now you’re considering starting up a microgreen business and you’re wondering how to go about it. You might be thinking how do you start, how much can you make, what steps to take, or what does it take to do it right?
Right here we have put together tips on how to successfully start a microgreen business.
One of the most lucrative crops you can grow is microgreens. You can grow them in a minimal space and you can sell them for $50 per pound or even more. With a space as small as your garage or your basement, you can project whooping 6 figures revenue yearly! Isn’t that awesome?
Starting A Microgreen Business
Starting up a microgreen business is not rocket science. It is totally easy with the right knowledge. The cost of establishing a microgreen business is minimal and the rate at which they grow is pretty fast. With about $100, you can kick start the microgreen business.
It takes only a few weeks to harvest microgreens therefore sales will keep rolling up in just a couple of weeks. Harvest will even be two times faster if you decide to grow microgreens hydroponically.
But mind you, everything is not that simple. You might face a few challenges climate, location, pest or crop diseases, etc. But with proper planning and following the right procedures, you are good to go.
Tips To Successfully Starting A Microgreen Business
Below are some tips to follow when it comes to starting a microgreen business:
1. Will my Business Succeed?
Even before starting a microgreen business, you should make some researches. Know if your business will stand a chance of excelling. Business is not for everyone so you need to know if you are prepared and capable of venturing into one. Factor in things such as time, consistency, and willingness to learn. Do you have enough time for this business and will you be persistent enough to survive this business?
2. Get to Know your Market and Environment
Another important step is to know your market and your environment. Is there a high demand for microgreens in your area? Will microgreen business be profitable in my area? No business will thrive if you don’t have a target audience or customers that are willing to purchase from you.
So research finding people who are interested in buying microgreens. You can simply start with a single channel if you want and add more channels later. Let’s take a look at some different sales channels you can consider.
- Residential or Direct Customers: you can do a direct door to door sale of your microgreens.
- Restaurant Chefs: you can also sell your microgreens to chefs. You can target local restaurant chefs in your area. You can start by giving them a sample of your microgreens to try them out.
- Grocery Store: as part of the research you have made for your target customers, some can be a grocery store. Meeting up with your local grocery store to sell your microgreens for you will be a good idea. It will even be better if customers are interested in having microgreens locally.
- Farmers: the market of the farmers around you can be added to the places you can sell your microgreens. Farmer’s market is one profitable place to sell especially when you’re the only one selling microgreens at your local market.
3. Divide Tasks
Now, of course, you will need some helping hands. You can decide to divide tasks to make work easier and faster. For example, you can divide and share growing and selling tasks.
Material Needed for Starting a Microgreen Business
Let’s take a look at some things you will need to start a microgreen business.
- Seeds
- Tray
- Lightening (e.g. T5 growing light)
- Packaging
- Growing medium (if you opt for growing microgreens without soil)
Durolux t5 Ho Grow Light
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FAQ’s
How do I start a Microgreen business?
Benefits of Starting a Microgreen
Business Microgreens offer several benefits over traditional, mass produced produce. Some of the benefits include: You’ll be able to use all your excess produce from your home garden. It’s easier to grow your own produce than it is to purchase produce from a large grocery store.
If you are looking to start a microgreen business, you’ll need to consider your microgreens and grow them in the most efficient way possible. You will also need to have a plan for distribution. What is a microgreen? A microgreen is a small, young vegetable or herb that is grown in a nursery-style environment using hydroponics. The plants are grown in small trays that contain nutrient solution that is pumped through the trays.
It’s important to know that this process is not quick or easy. However, the rewards are huge! If you’re looking for a way to make money while helping your community, then a microgreen business could be perfect for you.
A microgreen business is simply a small-scale, locally grown food business that sells produce to customers. The produce is grown in local gardens, rooftop gardens, or on urban rooftops. Microgreens are simply sprouted greens such as broccoli and kale that can be harvested when they’re just a few weeks old. They’re typically sold raw and unprocessed, but can be pickled, marinated, juiced, or cooked.
Are they popular?
A microgreen business is a small, local business that sells only produce that has been grown or raised at a certain location. These types of businesses are becoming increasingly popular as more consumers are seeking out fresh, locally-sourced foods.
The popularity of microgreens has increased rapidly in recent years. The reason for this is simple: they are easy to grow and they provide a healthy alternative to processed foods. They are a great way to introduce yourself into the food industry and get your green thumb on without having to commit to a large investment. They also offer some fantastic benefits for you as a business owner, including being able to work from anywhere you want. The best microgreen business ideas are based on the type of products you enjoy growing. Growing flowers or herbs is one of the easiest ways to start a microgreen business.
s microgreens a good business?
Microgreens are a very niche market, but they are definitely something that people like to eat. In addition to being in the top ten most consumed food items in the United States, according to the USDA, they’re also one of the fastest growing. Microgreens are tiny sprouts that can be grown indoors or out, and they’re available in a variety of flavors, colors, and sizes.
Additional Information
To maximize the yield of your microgreen production, you can opt for growing them with a hydroponic system. More so, you can choose a vertical hydroponic system to maximize yield if you are having issues with space. Vertical hydroponics will result in greater yield with just some minimal space.
Also with hydroponics, you don’t have to worry about weather conditions. This is because you can grow your microgreens indoors in a controlled space and enjoy abundant yield all year round.
Growing microgreens is the easiest part. However, selling your microgreens is the main success of this business: because what’s a business without profit?
Preferably, selling 85% to 90% of your microgreen should be your aim if you really want to make some profit. Just follow our tips diligently and we do wish you well in your microgreen business endeavor.
December 20, 2020
6 Best Flowers For Aquaponics
Who doesn’t love the auspicious therapeutic nature of growing flowers in their home or garden? Now imagine growing them in a controlled space such as aquaponics. It might not be so easy choosing the best flowers for aquaponics especially with so many good options that can fit your system.
This is why we have put together the 6 best flowers you can consider growing in your aquaponics. So read on to know your best pick.
Fruits and vegetables are not the only things you can grow in your aquaponics; flowers are also a good choice for aquaponics. Be it roses, tulips, dandelions, etc. growing these flowers with aquaponics are pretty easy and fun.
6 Best Flowers For Aquaponics
Aquaponics makes use of a closed ecosystem between fish and plants. The fish excrete that serves as a nutrient solution for the plants is purified by these plants and used again by the fish.
Growing flowers with aquaponics will be great and exciting. So, here are the following promising flowers for aquaponics:
1.    Roses
Roses are one of the most popular flowers and they are well-loved plant and a delight to have around. They have this terrific scented vibe associated with romance and love.
When it comes to choosing the aquaponics technique for your roses, the most frequently used aquaponics procedure for roses is the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). However, the grow bed and floating raft system is also a good choice for you. Roses need adequate lights or put them where they can get full sun.
Be wary of black spot and powdery mildew when growing roses.
2.    Sunflower
Sunflower is a happy flower that will brighten up your day with its yellow blooms. It is another great option to grow in aquaponics. You can grow sunflower in your aquaponics without any need for fertilizers or pesticides.
The most common aquaponics used for sunflowers is media beds or floating rafts. This is because support is needed as they are capable of growing tall.
As the name implies, the sunflower will do well in adequate sunlight.
3.    Marigold
The colorful marigold is a beneficial flower to grow in your aquaponics. They can serve as cover crops that help protects your plants from unwanted pests. They will also allure beneficial insects to your plants.
You can grow marigold in a Nutrient Film Technique or media grow beds. Marigold also does well in full sun.
4.    Pansies
The large-flowered pansies are another great flower you can add to your aquaponics flower lists. They are edible flowers and great for beginners because they don’t require too much care.
Pansies do well in cooler weather but you can subject them to partial sun. You can expose them to the early morning sun but protect them from the pressure of too hot sun.
5.    Water Hyacinth
Water hyacinth is a perfect addition to an aquaponics system. It is an aquatic plant that will be great for purifying your fish water. It is great at clearing algae as well as cleaning the water for your fish and plants.
Although it is an invasive plant because it grows fast and aggressively, you can solve this issue by using the raft system to control its growth.
6.    Nasturtium
Nasturtium is another great flowering plant for your aquaponics system. They are also helpful in repelling garden pests such as cucumber beetles and squash bugs. For this reason, they are great for planting side by side with tomatoes and cucumbers.
They also serve as trap crops by attracting pests such as aphids. They will entice these pests away from your main crops, thereby serving as a sacrificial plant.
Their flowers and leaves are also edible and they can be added to your culinary list. Nasturtium grows very fast so you can expect its seeds to begin germination within 7 to 10 days. They will do well in an environment with minimal heat stress.
Advantages Of Growing Aquaponics Flowers
The addition of flowers to your home or garden mixed with their vibrant color will add a touch of scent to your environment. You can enjoy various benefits from growing flowers with hydroponics.
- Pest Control: they can serve as companion plants for pest management.
- Culinary Utilization: a lot of flowers are edible, therefore they serve as culinary applications.
- Aesthetic Reasons: flowers are best known for their aesthetic nature. They will add their artistic beauty to your environment as well as boosting the look of your aquaponics garden.
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FAQ’s
What are the best flowers to grow with aquaponics?
Flowers are typically used for decoration, but there are several reasons that they can be grown in an aquaponics system. The first is that they have a low water demand and will generally do well in most systems. The second reason is that flowers can be harvested often to provide additional nutrition to the fish and/or plants. The third reason is that they can be used for ornamental purposes.
The best flowers to grow in an aquaponic system are generally those that can be grown in soil or grow well in containers.
You want to be sure you’re selecting the right plants for your system. I have been asked this question over and over by people who are just getting started with aquaponics. So, here is a list of the most popular flowers that are commonly grown in aquaponic systems. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list. If you have any questions about any of these, please leave a comment below.
1. Roses
2. Marigold (Tagetes patula)
3. Nasturtium – (Tropaeolum majus)
5. Pansies
6. Water Hyacinth
What are the best types pf flowers to grow with aquaponics?
If you want to grow flowers with aquaponics, there are two main types of plants you should grow: flowers and vegetables.
Growing flowers and vegetables together is possible with aquaponics, but it’s not as easy as growing plants in a regular garden. You need to consider many factors before you start, and you’ll also need to make sure you understand how to feed your plants.
Before you get started with your own aquaponics system, it’s important to learn more about why people use this method of gardening. For instance, the first benefit of using an aquaponic system is that you don’t need any chemicals or pesticides to grow your vegetables and flowers.
Make sure you have enough space for your plants. This is an important consideration that affects the decisions that people make over the types of flowers that they ultimately choose. If you want to grow the maximum amount of plants in your system, then you’ll need to make sure that you have enough space for them. You’ll also need to make sure that you have enough room for a greenhouse, since you’ll need a lot of space to heat the greenhouse.
Can roses be grown in aquaponics?
Roses will do fine in an aquarium.
They are not very picky about water quality and pH levels. They also don’t need much fertilizer. You can feed them with fish food, but they are not very picky about that either. They prefer fresh water. If you are growing them in an aquarium, you will have to place the rose plants in a separate tank. You can use a small fish tank as the base of your aquarium.
Final Say- Aquaponic Flowers
Most flowers can flourish in an aquaponics system. However, we have made some best picks for you in case you are confused about which flower to pick from the many varieties to choose from. So, you can decide which will be your best pick.
December 20, 2020
Hydroponic Lettuce Light Requirements
You might be interested in growing lettuce hydroponically and wondering what the light requirements are. This is why we have put together information on hydroponic lettuce light requirements for you.
One simple vegetable to grow with hydroponics is lettuce and it’s a perfect vegetable to start with especially for beginners. Lettuce plants grown in hydroponics are fast and easy to maintain. They can be grown all year round in a controlled environment. They don’t take much space and their growing requirements are very easy to meet.
Hydroponic Lettuce Growing Light Requirements
Lettuce is a minimally demanding plant when grown hydroponically. Even at that, certain care is still needed for their growing requirements and light is one of these requirements. So let’s look at some of the hydroponic lettuce light requirements.
Light Duration Requirement
The adequate light duration for lettuce is about 10 to 12 hours. Lettuce is a low-light plant and it won’t do well in full sun. Full light from the sun can cause lettuce to go into the flowering phase (bolt) and turn bitter.
Temperature
Lettuce does well in cooler temperatures. The high temperature will cause your lettuce plant to bolt or go into the flowering phase. When this happens, your lettuce plant will taste annoyingly bad. The appropriate temperature during the day should be from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature surpasses 75 degrees Fahrenheit, your lettuce plant will start to flower or bolt. Moderately low temperatures at night of around 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit are great for lettuce. During summer, lettuce does not grow that fast, but it does grow.
Grow light
Lettuce does not require much light. So for this reason, most growers go for fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lighting does not cost much, power consumption is low, and heat production is minimal. It is just the right grow light match for your lettuce plant.
Other Growing Requirements For Lettuce
Let’s take a look at some other growing requirements:
- Growing Media: you can make use of Rockwool cubes as your starters for your hydroponic systems. Rockwool has a naturally high pH. So if you are opting for Rockwool, make sure you balance your pH before you proceed to plant. Other options for growing media are coconut coir and peat moss.
- pH Range: the appropriate adjusting pH range for lettuce is 5.5 to 6.0.
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- Nutrient Solutions: The nutrient solution for lettuce is very essential. This is because it majorly serves as the growing medium for your lettuce plant to grow. Lettuce does not demand too many nutrients, but its nitrogen demand is pretty high. The nutrient solution with an N-P-K ratio should be high in nitrogen, have a little phosphorous, and not so much potassium. The nutrient solution should be able to yield great production as well as prevent it from entering the flowering phase (i.e. bolting). Calcium is also an essential nutrient for lettuce varieties that are prone to tip burning. Thus, ensure you feed the nutrient solution with a good portion of calcium.
Types Of Low Light Lettuce Grown In Hydroponic
Below are the commonly grown types of hydroponic lettuces:
- Butterhead Lettuce: butterhead lettuce is one popularly grown hydroponics lettuce that is a low light plant requirement. It consists of two types: Boston lettuce and Bibb lettuce.
- Loose-leaf Lettuce: Loose-leaf lettuce is also minimal light lettuce. This type of lettuce does not usually form heads.
- Romaine Lettuce: romaine lettuce is also a commonly grown lettuce. It is the major recipe for Caesar salad and its taste is a string and the texture is crispy. It is also a low-light plant. Romaine lettuce has various varieties such as open heads and tighter heads.
Lettuce Growing Period
Lettuce grows short-term and fast. The duration in which the head of your lettuce plant ripens will depend on the variety. Usually, it takes about 3 weeks for the first edible leaf to emerge and about 45 to 85 days to get the full head harvest.
How to Build a Hydroponic System For Lettuce?
Building a hydroponic system for lettuce is a fun and rewarding project. It allows you to produce lettuce year-round, indoors or out. Here are the steps you can follow to build your hydroponic system:
1. Choose A Location: Where you build your hydroponic system is essential. You need to ensure it has access to enough direct sunlight and an electrical outlet if you are not using solar panels.
2. Gather Your Materials: You will need a large container like a tub or barrel for the nutrient solution. Another tray or container should hold your lettuce and water. You’ll also need a water pump, tubing, and timer.
3. Set Up The Nutrient Solution: Fill the container with water and add a nutrient solution according to the package instructions. The nutrient solution provides the plants with all the necessary nutrients to grow.
4. Add The Lettuce Plants: Plant lettuce seeds or seedlings in small pots or plugs filled with a soilless growing medium, like coconut coir or peat moss. Place the pots or plugs in the container.
5. Connect The Water Pump and Tubing: Use the tubing to connect the water pump to the container of nutrient solution. Set the timer to control the frequency and duration of the water pump.
6. Monitor and Maintain The System: Check the nutrient solution regularly and add more as needed. Monitor the pH and temperature of the solution and adjust as needed. Harvest your lettuce when it is ready to eat.
What’s The Best Grow Light?
Several parts determine the efficiency of a grow light. The type best for your setup will depend on your specific needs. You can keep these light features in mind when choosing a grow light:
Spectrum
All plants have different light spectrum requirements. Lettuce, for example, prefers a range high in blue light. Fruiting plants like tomatoes and peppers like a spectrum high in red light. You should choose one that’s most suited for your plants.
Intensity
The intensity of the grow light is important for ensuring that the plants receive enough light to grow properly. You can determine the power of light using a PAR meter or the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Coverage Area
Consider the size of the area you want to cover with the grow light and choose a light that can do this.
Energy Efficiency
Grow lights can be energy-intensive. It is essential to choose an energy-efficient light to save on electricity costs.
Standard grow lights include fluorescent, LED and HID lamps. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to do your research and choose the one best suited for your needs.
What Size Grow Light Do I Need For Two Plants?
The size of the grow light you need for two plants will depend on the plant’s specific needs. These include their light spectrum and light intensity requirements. The size of the plants also impacts this.
Generally, you need at least 30 watts of light per square foot of growing space. Two plants need at least 60 watts. You should consider the coverage area and spectrum needs of your plants when choosing a light.
It is also important to monitor the plants as they grow. You might have to adjust the size of your grow light. If the plants are not receiving enough light, they may become spindly or fail to thrive. On the other hand, they may become stressed or burnt if they receive too much light.
How Long Does it Take to Grow Lettuce in a Hydroponic System?
Lettuce takes about 4 to 6 weeks to grow. Some varieties can take longer to mature. You should maintain your hydroponic system to ensure your lettuce grows as quickly as possible. This includes keeping the nutrient
Final Note
Growing lettuce hydroponically is of great benefits and you can grow any variety of lettuce in your hydroponics system. Lettuce has low light requirements and they are fast-growing. So be assured of ready available nutritious leafy green at your disposal.
Lettuce will take about 21 days to grow its edible leaves and 45 to 85 days for its full head to be ready for harvest. Its requirements are not too hard and it is one of the easiest plants to grow hydroponically.
December 20, 2020
Best Plants For Small Aquaponics
If you are looking for the best plants for small aquaponics, you need not worry. We will give you the information in this guide so read on to find out.
Aquaponics is an agricultural culture system that makes use of a complex ecosystem between fish and plants. The system can be used to cultivate various plants, vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowering plants.
Before we dive into the best plants for small aquaponics, let’s look at some basic information about aquaponics.
Basic Info on Aquaponics
Aquaponics involves the combination of two categories of food cultivation which are hydroponics and aquaculture. This two combining process (hydroponics and aquaculture) works together to contribute to each other’s growth.
Aquaponics is a balanced ecosystem between the fish and plants which also includes some beneficial bacteria. The waste from the fish is used as food for the plants, the plant, in turn, purifies the water for the fish.
The interesting thing is that aquaponics is not a new technique. It is a farming method that has been in existence since ancient times. But now it has started gaining popularity these past few years.
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Best Plants for Small Aquaponics
The best plants for small aquaponics should be plants that demand lesser nutrients. Thus, the best plants for small aquaponics are greens and herbs, and they include:
1. Watercress: One of the best plants to grow in a small aquaponics stem is watercress. It requires a lesser concentration of nutrients and it is a hardy vegetable and it grows fast. Watercress will also blend and flourish with any type of fishes you may have.
2. Kale: This is another low nutritious plant that can be grown in small aquaponics. It will flourish with various types of fish. Another added benefit is that kale will not attract pests to your system. Thus giving your aquaponics system extra safety.
3. Lettuce: Is also a low demanding nutrient plant appropriate for small aquaponics. It will match and co-exists most especially with tilapia fish.
4. Swiss Chard: Swiss chord requires minimal nutrients and is great for small aquaponics systems. It is a hardy plant that mainly utilizes nitrate for its leaf growth. This plant grows perfectly in the water of pH range between 6.6 to 7.0 which is an appropriate range for this plant and various fish.
Other low nutrient plants we recommend for small aquaponics are:
1. Mint
2. Arugula
3. Radish sprout
4. Pak choi
5. Mint
6. Wheatgrass
7. Basil
8. Spinach
Best Plants for Small Aquaponics: What to Consider
Aquaponics system is quite easy to set up and if you plan on obtaining one, the main question on your mind should be: what plants can I grow? The straight-up answer is the “size of your aquaponics” will determine the type of plants to grow.
Small Aquaponics: a small aquaponics system will require lesser fish, lesser water, and a lesser concentration of nutrients.
Bigger Aquaponics: on the other hand, a bigger aquaponics system will require more fish, more water, and more nutrient concentration.
Therefore, the best plant for a small aquaponics system should be plants that require lesser nutrients and they include greens and herbs as listed above.
Even though almost all plants can be grown in an aquaponics system, we need to consider the fact that various plants have various needs. So let’s look at more on the needs or what to consider when choosing plants for your small aquaponics.
Other things to consider:
- Space: some plants need more space while others need lesser space. The space we are talking about is your aquaponics system space. Therefore, you should take into account for example the height and width of the plant that can fit into your aquaponics system.
- The Number of Fish: The presence of more fish will require more plants so they can absorb all the nutrients produced from fish waste and vice versa.
- Type of System Used: you could use a nutrient film technique, media-based, or raft aquaponics depending on the structure of the plant that will fit in. Floating raft systems favors plant with no root structure while grow beds favors root vegetables.
FAQ’s
How does aquaponics work?
Aquaponics is a system of growing fish and plants in a symbiotic relationship. The fish clean the water, which then feeds the plants. The plants remove nitrogen from the water and the fish waste is converted into fertilizer. There are some species of fish that can live in aquaponics. The most common are Tilapia, Catfish and Koi. In general, the fish should be fed with a specially formulated diet. It should contain high levels of protein, low levels of fat, and vitamins and minerals.
The plants absorb nutrients from the fish waste, and the fish provide oxygen to the plants through their gills. The system can be used to grow food for humans and/or animals. It is also very effective at cleaning the water, providing both food and clean water. Aquaponic plants are not as delicate as traditional plants. They can be grown in containers or on land.
What plants can be grown in an aquaponic system?
I think that the most common are listed below.
1. Broccoli
2. Potatoes
3. Cucumbers
4. Tomatoes
5. Carrots
6. Peppers
7. Beans
8. Strawberries
9. Beets
10. Cabbage
11. Watermelon
12. Eggplant
13. Squash
14. Green beans
15. Sweet potatoes
16. Kale
17. Broccoli
What plants cannot be grown in an aquaponic system?
Plants that are sensitive to salt (salt stress). This can be either the soil or the water. In general, a soil solution of about 2% is the most common level for a salt tolerant plant. Some plants like tomatoes will tolerate more salt than that. They need a salt concentration of about 5-6%.
Do plants grow faster in aquaponics?
The answer is yes, but only if the plants are small. If they’re big, then no. In fact, it’s not even an absolute, because there’s a difference between plants that have been raised in aquaponics and those that have been raised in a traditional greenhouse.
Why is lettuce good for aquaponics?
It’s easy to grow, takes up little space and is extremely forgiving. The reason why lettuce is such a great choice for an aquaponic garden is that it doesn’t require much light to thrive, making it a perfect plant for a system that needs a lot of light to grow.
Lettuce is also very forgiving to the fish. It doesn’t take well to being eaten, and will survive on the scraps left behind by other plants.
Can strawberries be grown in aquaponics?
I have read that the strawberries grow very well in aquaponics. I would recommend starting with growing them in an aquarium with a filter, but the problem with that is that they will grow all over the place.
Aquaponics Plants Final Words
Aquaponics is an awesome technique that anyone would find interesting to learn and have.
When it comes to choosing the best plant for your small aquaponics system, one thing we suggest is for you to decide to grow what you will eat or use. Having a thought of what you plan on accomplishing will assist you in making a better judgment on what to grow in your small aquaponics system.
Also, note that growing low demanding nutrient plant is not only for small aquaponics. It is also advisable to start with growing minimal demanding nutrient plants for a new aquaponics system. They will serve as “starter plants” for your new aquaponics system.
December 20, 2020
Hydroponic Drip System Watering Schedule
Installing an efficient watering schedule for your hydroponic drip system is very vital for your plants. This is because if you get the idea wrong, it can be pretty detrimental to your plants. Therefore, we will be enlightening you on how to go set up an efficient drip watering schedule for your hydroponic.
A hydroponic drip system usually functions in the same manner a drip irrigation system with soil works. However, it works with a dissolved hydroponic nutrient. With the right knowledge, it is pretty easy to set up and establish an efficient drip system.
Types of Drip System: Two Types
The first thing you need to know is the different types of a drip system and now resolve to which to go for. We have two types of drip systems namely recirculating or recovery drip system and non-recirculating or non-recovery drip system.
1. Recirculating or Recovery Drip System
This type of drip system does not use much technology. In the recovery system, the dissolved nutrient solution from the drip system is recovered or recycled to be used again. This system seems like a nice and eco-friendly system because nutrients are been reused.
However, as the nutrient solutions are being recycled from the growing medium to the reservoir; the quantity of nutrients, as well as the pH range, is constantly changing. This will require constant monitoring and testing the solution and periodically replacing the solution to ensure everything is in check.
1. Non-recirculating or Non-recovery Drip System
As the non-recovery name implies, the nutrients solutions are not recovered. Allow them to drain away. Since nutrients are not been recycled, you are required to periodically replenish or refill the reservoir with fresh nutrient solution.
The non-recovery drip system can be timed and this timing must be very accurate. With an accurate cycle timer, it will ensure your plants are receiving the proper amount of nutrient-filled solution. Therefore, you have maximum control of the amount of nutrient solution your plant gets.
Hydroponic Drip System Watering Schedule
Setting up a drip watering schedule system is not so easy. It might even require you to do some trial and error. If you supply your plant with too much nutrient-filled water, they might eventually drown. Also, if you supply your plants with insufficient nutrient-filled water, they might end up being nutrient and water deficient.
You can begin by doing a trial by closely monitoring the hydroponic drip system for the first few days. This way, you can identify when the water level has reached the ideal stage.
You will have to set your hydroponic drip timer to 2 or 3 times daily depending on the period it takes to fill your growing medium without any waste.
You should note that the watering schedule will probably alternate as your plant continues to grow. This means plants that have grown will need more nutrient-filled solutions and the younger ones will need less.
Also, weather changes such as dryness during summer or an increase in humidity can require changes in the schedule of watering.
Setting Up a Hydroponic Drip System
There are various ready-made hydroponic kits. However, if you would like to build your hydroponic drip system, here are the materials needed:
- Drip emitters.
- Growing medium to support your plants (Rockwool, coconut coir, or expanded clay pellets).
- Growing containers.
- Nutrient solution reservoir.
- Timer for the pump.
- Submersible pump.
- Irrigation tubes or fittings.
- pH testers.
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To set up your hydroponic drip system, do the following:
- Begin with putting the pump right inside the reservoir and fix the drip pipe and tubes.
- Select a growing medium and fill it into your growing containers. Also, put your plants here and focus the drip emitters right into the roots of the plant.
- Set the containers a couple of inches above the reservoir so gravity can allow water to flow well. This way, excess water can quickly run off and recovered into the reservoir for the recovery system. Allow excess water to run off elsewhere for the non-recovery drip system.
- You can take control of the nutrient solution by connecting a timer to the power source which is in the electric pump.
- As you set your timer, the drip system will need to be closely monitored for the first couple of days in case some adjustments need to be made.
Final Say
Even though it may take some time for you to perfect the watering schedule of your hydroponic drip system, it’s definitely worth the trial. The hydroponic drip system is one of the most productive and low maintenance systems amid the 6 hydroponic systems.
December 13, 2020
Growing Microgreens Hydroponically – Step By Step
Over these last few years, microgreens have seriously gained some popularity. It’s no news that anything greens are great, and when they come in tiny bits, it’s even better. Micro-greens can be a great addition to your meals and they will enhance the flavor and look of your dishes. Now, wouldn’t it be a great idea for you to grow micro-greens hydroponically? Of course!
Growing micro-greens hydroponically is pretty easy just like growing other leafy greens. Micro-greens are the seedlings stage of various herbs and vegetables. When you plant the seeds of micro-greens such as basil, arugula, cilantro, etc, the first two or three leaves that sprout as they establish roots are known as the micro-greens.
Hydroponic Microgreens
A hydroponic micro-green simply entails cultivating your little veggies or herbs in a nutrient-filled solution without the mess of soil.
Micro-greens are easy and fun to grow and growing them hydroponically is even better. You get to enjoy a greater yield of micro-greens at your disposal with hydroponics. They are perfect for home gardening because they only grow a few inches so they don’t take much space.
Benefits of Growing Microgreens Hydroponically
Here are the benefits of growing micro-greens hydroponically:
- Grown them anywhere: the micro-greens hydroponic set up can be grown anywhere. You can place them in your kitchen, living room, garage, basement, etc, and they will do well.
- Smaller water quantity consumption: the water in the hydroponic system can be reused. This implies they only need about 20 times less water compared to growing soil.
- Some micro-greens thrive well hydroponically: a couple of micro-greens do well in hydroponics. Examples of such micro-greens include kohlrabi, radish, wheatgrass, and kale. They will generate a greater yield rather than when grown in the soil.
- No soil or compost mess: this is because it is a water-based system. You don’t have to worry about soil mess even when placed inside your home. Therefore, they are ideal for home gardening.
- Adequate control: you enjoy total control over your plants’ growth. You can control how much more or fewer nutrients your micro-greens will need to thrive.
Growing Microgreens Hydroponically at Home
You can either go for DIY hydroponics or purchase a complete hydroponic kit for your microgreens.
Here is what you will need when growing micro-green hydroponically in the comfort of your home:
- Micro-green seeds (use organic seeds for micro-greens and avoid fungicide treated seeds).
- Growing trays (10” x 20” plastic trays with drainage holes).
- Growing medium (e.g. coconut coir).
- Lights.
- pH test kit.
- Nutrients.
- Spray bottle.
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Getting Started
1. Prepare the Balanced pH Water
To begin, one of the most important steps is to prepare your pH balanced water. The range should be around 5.5 to 6.5. You can add lime or wood ash to elevate the pH range and phosphoric acid to reduce the pH range. Use distilled water and apply the nutrients accordingly.
1. Prepare the Growing Medium and Add Seeds
Next prepare your growing tray with coconut coir and sow your seeds evenly on the grow tray. Spray the seeds using the bottle sprayer with clean water or nutrient solution.
1. Cover the Seeds and Mist
Cover your seeds with a lightproof cover afterward. Keep them in this dark warm position for 4 to 5 days. During this period, you can open your tray every 10 to 12 hours to mist the seed tray.
1. Proper Light
You can uncover them after 5 days and you should begin to see some little sprout. Now is the time to feed them with proper light. We recommend using LED grow lights but you can also make use of fluorescent, direct sunlight, or incandescent light.
1. Checks
From the beginning till harvest time, your water should have the right pH balance. Therefore, always monitor daily the correct balanced water.
1. Water
You can now begin to water the tray directly with some little amount of water rather than misting it.
1. Harvest
10 to 14 days later, most of the micro-greens are ready to be harvested. Some varieties can be harvested as early as 7 days.
We recommend you harvest them late nights or early morning when they are not hot. This way, you get tender and fresh micro-greens ready for use. If you are yet to use them, put them in a damp paper towel and keep them in your refrigerator till they are ready for use.
FAQ’s
How long does it take to grow microgreens hydroponically?
You can begin harvesting microgreens in 7-10 days from seed. Some growers like to harvest earlier and others wait until they are ready for the market.
What is the best soil mix for growing microgreens hydroponically?
The best soil mix for growing microgreens hydroponically is a combination of vermiculite, peat moss, and sand. We recommend using a high-quality seed starting medium.
Is the medium’s quality important?
We recommend starting your seeds on a high-quality seed starting medium. This will help them germinate and grow faster.
What’s the best way to harvest them?
The easiest way to harvest microgreens is to cut them off of the stems with scissors. To harvest them, you can either harvest individual leaves or all of the leaves at once. Harvesting leaves individually allows you to get a closer look at each leaf. Harvesting all of the leaves at once is quicker, but it can be a little bit tedious.
Additional Note
If you would like to grow micro-greens commercially or on a larger scale, you will have to take advantage of the vertical set up. This means you will opt for a vertical hydroponic system that is efficient in terms of more space and greater production.
December 12, 2020