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Category: Soil Amendments & Fertilizers

How To Increase Calcium In Soil
Just as calcium is needed in humans to build strong bones and teeth, it is also essential in plants, especially for rigid cell walls. So, let’s talk about how to increase calcium in the soil.
One secondary macronutrient required by plant soil is calcium. Even though calcium isn’t needed in quantities as the general nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus (NPK) are needed: calcium is still essential for the optimal growth of a plant.
Calcium is important for the proper development of plants and any deficiencies of calcium in the plant can cause stunted or weak growth. Therefore, proper supply of calcium in the soil is essential for optimal development. So let’s dive in and learn how to increase calcium in the soil.
Importance Of Calcium In Soil
Of the many important minerals in the soil, calcium is one of them. Here is some of the importance of calcium in soil:
- Calcium assists in keeping the plant upright. Hence it plays a crucial role in soil structure.
- Calcium is required for plant support and it is required for building a strong cell wall and cell membrane.
- It also provides transport for other materials.
- Calcium helps with better water penetration.
- Calcium also helps lowers salinity levels in the soil.
Deficiency Of Calcium
The deficiency of calcium can cause some adverse effects in plants and they include:
- Blossoms and buds may begin to shed prematurely.
- Plant tip burns.
- Blossom end rot.
- Improper levels of calcium in the soil can also cause the shelf life of some fruits such as tomatoes and cantaloupes to reduce drastically.
- Calcium deficiency may even lead to the death of a plant.
Add Calcium To Soil
Calcium is usually added to soil to increase calcium levels or prevent calcium deficiency. Deficiency in calcium in the soil is easily solved through appropriate nutrition or through calcium supplements for plants. Supplying the soil with good quality calcium sources will assist in mitigating calcium deficiencies.
How To Increase Calcium In Soil
The first thing to determine if your soil is low in calcium is to do soil testing. Soil testing will let you have an idea of the amount to add to increase calcium in the soil. If you’ve already begun planting, you can also notice low calcium levels by noticing any deficiency in your plant. So here are ways on how to increase calcium in soil:
1.    Soil Additives
If you plan on using soil additives to add calcium to your soil, it’s advisable you test your soil pH. When you do this, it will help you determine the type of soil additive to use. The two most common soil additives used are gypsum and lime.
Down to Earth Organic Garden Gypsum Calcium Sulfate, 5 lb
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You can purchase these at any garden, lawn, or home improvement store. You can as well obtain them from Amazon.
To maintain the soil pH levels the same way they are while adding calcium, then you should make use of gypsum. However, if the pH needs to be increased, lime addition is recommended.
2.    Addition Of Eggshell To Soil
The eggshell contains adequate calcium that many types of plants can benefit from. Therefore, you can apply some eggshells to the soil. But before adding eggshells to the soil, put the eggshell in an empty container for a few days then add them to your soil.
Ensure the eggshells are as dry as possible so store them in a coffee tin or storage container. After doing this and they have dried, grind them in a blender or food processor. Since they are dried, it should be easy for the eggshell to grind up easily.
The ground eggshell should have a similar consistency as coffee grounds or flower grounds. If then eggshells are blended to a finer consistency, it will be easier for the soil to absorb the calcium in them.
Make use of your hands or tilling machine to mix the eggshell powder into the soil. Do this at least a week before you begin to plant. This is to ensure the soil is in peak growing condition.
However, if you’ve already started planting, just spread the blended eggshell carefully around your plants’ soil.
Once you’ve done this, ensure you keep a close eye on the growth of your plant. You can always add more eggshell powder several weeks later depending on the progress your plant exhibits.
Absorption of calcium in the blended eggshells can take as long as 6 to 12 months for certain plants. So if you notice your plants are already growing pretty well, it may not be necessary to add extra eggshell powder.
3.    Bone Meal
Bone meal is a high phosphate fertilizer and can be used o increase calcium in the soil. it is slow releasing and less soluble. The bone meal should be used for soil that requires raising its pH moderately.
4.    Epsom Salts
Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. Adding Epsom salt is a great way of increasing the calcium levels in the soil.
5.    Foliar Spray
Foliar spray commercially sold is the fastest solution for serious calcium deficiency. This is because the plants will assimilate the nutrient more easily through leaves and roots. Foliar spray can also be made at home from using chamomile or seaweed.
Too Much Calcium In Soil
Calcium may also be in excess in the soil. Once there’s excess calcium in your soil, your soil pH tends to increase meaning the soil becomes too alkaline. This may lead to disturbance in ion balance.
So, always ensure you add the right amount of calcium required to your soil. Always do appropriate soil testing to have an idea of the right quantity of calcium to add to your soil.
FAQ’s
How do you fix calcium deficiency in soil?
The most effective way to fix calcium deficiency in soil is to add gypsum, according to the University of California, Berkeley. Gypsum can be used as a fertilizer and is available at many gardening centers and nurseries. Keep Learning Calcium deficiency in soil can cause plants to wilt, and it can also cause problems such as stunted growth.
Gypsum is one of the best ways to help with this problem. Gypsum is a type of rock that contains calcium sulfate. This chemical compound helps to make the soil more alkaline (meaning the pH is higher than 7). Gypsum is usually added to soil at a rate of about 1 pound per 100 square feet. To add this amount of gypsum to your garden, you will need to use a shovel or pickaxe. Dig a hole in the soil that is at least 2 inches deep and spread the gypsum out. It may be mixed with compost to make it easier for the plants to absorb the nutrients from the soil. Be sure to spread the gypsum evenly around the area you are working in. Some people put the gypsum on top of the soil, but this may not work as well.
What does help calcium help plants with?
Calcium is a macronutrient and is needed for growth and development. Calcium is used in the construction of cell walls, for example.
Calcium also helps to protect plants against cold, drought, pests, diseases and fertilizers. A well-balanced nutrition program for your plants will include calcium as well as other nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, sulfur, magnesium, boron, zinc and iron.
Calcium is used in fertilizers as an effective way to increase yield, promote root health and help plants grow in acidic soils.
Why do I need to be careful with calcium in soil?
Calcium is typically used to promote growth, and in high concentrations it can be toxic. For this reason, you need to know how much calcium your soil has before you start adding fertilizer. Calcium can be added to the soil as a liquid or in solid form. The type of calcium that’s available will depend on where it comes from, how it was applied and when it was applied. For example, when calcium is applied as a liquid, it will leach out of the soil very quickly and may not remain in the soil long enough to provide any benefit.
How much calcium should garden plants get?
You want to have a plant-based diet that contains no more than 10 percent of its calories from fat, which translates to less than 3 grams of fat per day for an adult. The best way to determine how much calcium your plants are getting is to look at the label on the fertilizer or soil amendment that you’re using.
How To Increase Calcium In Soil: Conclusion
There are many ways on how to increase calcium in the soil and we’ve listed some for you. Test your soil to know if they require calcium addition. Also, when adding calcium to your soil, ensure you add the appropriate quantity so your plant can enjoy successful growth.
September 26, 2021
Hydroponics Vs Soil Cost
Let’s compare hydroponic vs soil cost. Both hydroponics and soil garden has given us the options of growing plant successfully. However, we would like to know the difference in cost between hydroponic gardening and soil gardening.
You might already be into any of these gardening (hydroponics or soil gardening) and you want to switch to either one. Or you may just want to start up either one, then it’s a great idea you know the difference so you can choose the one that suits you.
So, let’s dive in and find out the difference in cost, setup, and other growing requirements between hydroponics and soil gardening.
Hydroponics Vs Soil Cost
Both hydroponic gardening and soil gardening have their advantages. Looking at the cost difference, hydroponic is a little costlier to start up than soil. However, growing with hydroponics will offer you more rapid growth, greater yield, and almost no soil-borne diseases compared to soil gardening.
You also get access to a controlled environment such as weather and harsh conditions compared to growing in soil and lots of other benefits.
You should also note that once your setup is complete and your growing process kicks off and you begin harvesting a few grow cycles, you are sure to make up your initial investment.
Even though soil gardening is cheaper, commencing hydroponics is not so hard and you can choose the type that suits your budget. The good news is as more people are venturing into hydroponics farming, hydroponic supplies are getting more affordable by the day.
Growing In Hydroponics Vs Growing In Soil
Growing With Soil
The first thing to purchase when setting up a garden is obtaining the appropriate soil. Soil acts as a plant’s anchor and the nutrient required for the plant to flourish are present in the soil.
Growing with soil will sure reward you with fresh yield. Just ensure you take care of all the necessary requirements such as nutrient fertilizer, watering scheme, pest control, and so on.
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01/20/2026 11:01 pm GMT
Growing With Hydroponics
Growing with hydroponics might sound complicated or bizarre especially for any novice. But it is really easy to go about it when you have the right knowledge. Growing with hydroponics involves raising plants in a water-based nutrient solution with an inert growing medium as the anchor for plants.
Less Dirt And Soil-borne Diseases – With hydroponics, your crops will be grown more healthily. Also, there is no messing around in the dirt growing with hydroponics. Thus, they will be less likely to be predisposed to soil-borne disease because grow medium is used instead of soil. So, the use of pesticides is reduced greatly.
Controlled Space – Another added advantage is that you can make use of any space either indoor or outdoor to grow with hydroponics. Soil-based plants will usually require adequate space for the plant to spread out. But with hydroponics, you can make use of little space and get the reward of abundant yield.
No Weeding Required – Traditional soil will give you the stress of weed control. But with hydroponics, you don’t have to worry about weed troubles.
Optimal Control – Optimal control is another benefit of growing with hydroponics. You get to control when and how your plants feed. There is also control over the plants’ environment compared to outdoor soil where you have to worry about weather and other harsh conditions. So, you have almost 80% control of your farm.
Saves Water – Unlike traditional soil that requires watering every couple of days, hydroponic farming involves the recirculation of water. The water-based nutrient solution is reused to reduce water wastage. This nutrient solution is supplied directly to the plants’ root so your plants are supplied water as well as nutrient regularly.
Rapid Growth And Abundant Yield – Hydroponic farming encourages faster growth. You also gain 5 times abundant yield or even or more compared to soil farming.
FAQ’s
How are hydroponics more costly than dealing with soil?
There are a lot of different methods that people have used to grow plants indoors without using soil. The most common method that people use is called hydroponics. Determining whether the cost is worth it entails understanding everything that goes into it, and then comparing it to the necessities of growing plants in soil.
Hydroponics uses an artificial nutrient solution that is pumped through the plant and is absorbed by the roots. There are many different ways to do hydroponics, but the most common is using a soilless medium and adding the nutrients to the medium. Some people prefer to use rockwool blocks, but they can also use other types of soilless media. They also use a light to simulate sunlight. It is possible to grow plants in this way with artificial light, but many people use sunlight as the source of energy for their plants. The most common nutrients that people use in hydroponic systems are nitrate, phosphate, and potassium.
If you are new to gardening, then I would suggest that you start off with soil. The reason for this is that it is much easier to grow plants from seed than it is to grow them from cuttings or from seedlings. Once you have established yourself, then you can start thinking about the different ways of growing plants.This is very important when you want to keep costs down to a minimum. The last thing that you want is to waste your money making all sorts of amateurs mistakes.
What do you need to use a medium instead of soil?
This includes a wide variety of different products such as coco coir, peat moss, and vermiculite. Growing media is used to support the roots of your plants. This includes a wide variety of different products such as coco coir, peat moss, and vermiculite. Growing media is used to support the roots of your plants.
Is the filter important for hydroponics?
Yes. Air is essential for plant growth. Your hydroponic system needs to provide enough air to your plants. A fan is often used to provide this much needed air. Aeration is essential for plant growth. Your hydroponic system needs to provide enough air to your plants. A fan is often used to provide this much needed air. Filters. You should be able to find filters to clean your water, air, and nutrients in your hydroponic system. Filters are usually made from different materials including activated carbon, carbon cloth, and HEPA filters. You should be able to find filters to clean your water, air, and nutrients in your hydroponic system. Filters are usually made from different materials including activated carbon, carbon cloth, and HEPA filters.
Why do people prefer hydroponics over soil?
A hydroponic system is the best thing for growing plants indoors. If you don’t have access to a hydroponic system, then you should just use soil. Hydroponic systems are really only good for growing herbs and flowers, but they will give you much more control over your plant’s growth.
Soil Vs Hydroponics Conclusion
So, when it comes to hydroponics versus soil gardening cost, we agree that growing in traditional soil is cheaper.
However, with so many benefits outlined growing hydroponically, I’m sure you would agree it’s worth growing with hydroponics rather than soil. But if you still choose to grow traditionally, it’s all good. The goal is to get results and fresh crops.
June 6, 2021
Where To Buy Hydroponics Nutrient Solution
Are you looking for where to buy hydroponics nutrient solutions for your garden? We will let you know in this post.
Obtaining a standard hydroponic nutrient solution that will supply plants with all necessary nutrients is the goal of all growers. There are various places you can buy hydroponic nutrient solutions and we will you know in this post. So, read on to find out.
What Is Hydroponic Nutrient Solution?
The hydroponic nutrient solution is an essential constituent in the process of growing plants in hydroponics. It is a liquid composition that contains all the essential nutrients part required for the growth of plants.
With hydroponic, it is easier to calculate or estimate the precise quantity of nutrients solution required for plant growth compared to soil.
Where To Buy Hydroponics Nutrient Solution
1. Hydroponic Nutrient Sellers Available Locally: If you ask and look around your area, you should be able to find hydroponic nutrient sellers. You can also check at any hydroponic supplies stores.
2. Reliable Online Store: You can also purchase a hydroponic nutrient solution from reputable online stores. Online store such as Amazon is a great place to begin your search as they contain various options from various manufacturers. They will deliver your hydroponic nutrient to your doorstep without the hassle of going out to search for one.
3. Independent Garden Or Nursery Centers: You can as well extend your search towards independent garden centers or nursery stores near you.
4. Big Box Stores: Another place you can buy hydroponic nutrient solutions is the big box stores such as Home Depot, Lowes, etc.
Types Of Nutrients For Hydroponics Solution To Buy: Buying Criteria
1. Liquid Or Powder Hydroponics Nutrient
Hydroponic nutrients can come in either liquid form or powder form. Newbies and hobbyists usually prefer liquid nutrient solutions because they are already premixed. However, the liquid type is a bit expensive.
General Hydroponics Flora Grow, Bloom, Micro Combo Fertilizer set
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The powder type of hydroponic nutrient is the dry form and they are affordable. Their shelf life is also longer. Used by most commercial growers. This is because they are affordable and needed in bigger quantities. However, you need to be experienced when using this powdered form. This is because you will have to prepare the powder for each mineral. But if you want easy-to-use fertilizer, there are some pre-mixed powdered hydroponic nutrients you can purchase. Simply mix into water and use.
1. Organic Or Synthetic Hydroponic Nutrient
Even though most growers prefer everything organic, most hydroponic nutrients aren’t sold as organic. The only way to get organic hydroponic nutrients is to obtain the organic ingredients yourself such as fishbone, feather meal, blood meal, etc.
Some hydroponic nutrient products might even term them organic but in the real sense, they aren’t 100% organic. So, synthetic hydroponic nutrient products are not such a bad idea. They have been used for growing all types of plants successfully.
1. Multipurpose Made Or Only Made For Hydroponic
You might have come across a nutrient termed multipurpose or all purpose-made. They claim they can be used for either soil or hydroponic garden. We won’t really recommend you go for such. You should go for products that are specially designed for hydroponic purposes if you want top-notch results.
Applying Hydroponics Nutrients Solution
Most manufacturers will instruct you to use the whole nutrient solution that comes with it. This is so you can run out of it and buy more. Try to avoid this and ensure you apply gradually.
Start by applying about 50% or 70% portion then continue adjusting or adding more portion as required. Also, you should consider the stages of growth (vegetative, flowering, or fruiting stage). Supply your plants according to the stages they are.
When you are done applying the hydroponic nutrient, ensure you measure the pH of the solution. They must fall in the appropriate hydroponic nutrient range which is 5.5 to 6.5. Also, keep an eye on any symptoms your plants show.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between a fertilizer and a nutrient?
Fertilizers contain nutrients, but they also have a large amount of inert material. This material doesn’t contain any nutrients, so it doesn’t help your plants grow. The best way to use a fertilizer is to use it to top off a nutrient-rich soil, then water it in. After that, the fertilizer will slowly break down and release its nutrients into the soil over time.
How do I know what type of nutrient solution to use?
The first thing to do is determine if you want to use a liquid or solid nutrient solution. Liquid nutrients are much easier to use because they can be applied at the root level. For example, you could put a few tablespoons of a liquid fertilizer in a bucket, then apply it to the roots using a watering can.
You can grow hydroponically with any nutrient solution. The main difference between hydroponics and soil gardening is the lack of contact between the roots and the soil. Soil contains nutrients that are drawn up into the roots through osmosis. This is what plants need to survive. In a hydroponic setup, the roots are not in contact with soil. Instead they have their own separate solution which is pumped in under pressure.
This ensures that the roots receive the same amount of nutrients as they would in soil.
Where can I find nutrients for hydroponics?
You can find a large number of different nutrient solutions. You can find them in any good hydroponics store, as well as on the internet. In general you want a very concentrated nutrient solution that contains all the nutrients you need to grow plants. There are two types of nutrients, “macronutrients” and “micronutrients”. Macronutrients are the main components of the plant – like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium.
These are the nutrients that plants need in order to grow. They must be mixed with water, which is pumped through the system. The nutrient solution is filtered before it flows into the growing tray. This is where your plants will absorb the nutrients that they need to grow.
What is the best nutrient solution for hydroponic growth?
When you’re growing plants in a soil-less environment, there are some things you need to know about nutrition. The first thing that comes to mind is the pH. The pH of your nutrient solution should be adjusted to 6.0 or slightly lower. This is because plants have a slightly acidic environment inside their cells. The second thing you need to know is that plants are carnivorous.
You should also consider the different typed of solutions there are. For instance, some are designed for foliar feeding, while others are designed to be used with hydroponic systems. Foliar feeding refers to using nutrients directly on the leaves of a plant. This type of feeding is important if you want to grow your plants without any form of fertilizer. There are a few different types of foliar nutrients available. Each type is designed to be used by itself or with other types of nutrients.
Hydroponic Nutrient Composition Requirements
you can look to our suggested outlets on where to buy hydroponics nutrient solution. The general hydroponic nutrient solution must contain both micronutrients and macronutrients as they are necessary for plant growth. So, ensure you purchase the right type of hydroponic nutrient composition.
June 6, 2021
How Often Should I Give My Plants Nutrients
Nutrients are essential for the development of plants. If you’re wondering how often you should give your plants nutrients, we will let you know in this article.
Nutrients are supplied to plants to enhance growth and maximize yield. You need to be aware of how often to give your plants nutrients the right way. This way, you don’t predispose your plant to underfeeding or overfeeding which can both be detrimental to your plants’ health.
So, read on to discover how often to feed your plants.
Get To Know How Often To Add Nutes During Flowering
How often you should give your plants nutrients will depend on many factors. Be it manure, worm casting, plant food, etc. fertilization of your plant does not have to be too complex.
In a soil-based plant, if you begin your planting with soil that is already abundant in nutrients, there’s not much to be done in giving your plants more nutrients. This implies mainly for growing foliage such as lettuce and parsley.
However, if you are planting for comprehensive stages such as flowering, maturing of fruits, etc. they will require some nutrient boost.
How To Supply Plant With Nutrients
Always apply fertilizer moderately from the start. The nutrient scheme that follows your nutrients can be followed from the start. Then monitor your plant closely and adjust or apply nutrients as required.
We recommend you don’t totally go by the nutrient scheme given to you by the manufacturers. Some manufacturers may clearly want you to run out of nutrients so you can buy more. As such, their direction may usually be on the high side.
You can begin with half portion or 70% portion that was recommended then continue adjusting or adding more portion as needed.
Also, take note not to apply too much nutrient or fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen. Too much fertilizer which is rich in nitrogen can supply your plants plenty of foliage but minimal fruits or flowers.
Fox Farm Liquid Nutrient Trio Soil Formula – Big Bloom, Grow Big, Tiger Bloom Pint Size
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Other Factors When Water Nutes
Other factors to consider on how often you should give your plants nutrients are to consider the stages of their growth and grow medium used.
- For the stages of growth, the younger will demand few nutrients. But as they mature into vegetative, flowering, etc, they will require more nutrients.
- Most grow medium used are usually inert and does not contain nutrients. Thus, it is required to provide them with optimal nutrients.
Can I Water & Apply Nutrient To My Plants?
Watering your plant and applying nutrients to your plant will depend on some factors.
For instance, the size of the container will tell how often you give your plants nutrients whenever you water. The watering requirement for a bigger container is not much. Watering can be done once weekly or once every other week. Therefore, nutrient feeding is required anytime you water.
In a smaller container, watering several times weekly may be required. So, do you apply nutrients every time you water?
It’s okay if you apply nutrients every time you water. All you need to do is to calculate how often you water every week. Then go ahead and portion the nutrients that will last every week you water. This way, each time you water, you supply your plants’ nutrients in the right amounts without overfeeding or underfeeding.
Another alternative is to portion the nutrients into two watering. You have to water and apply nutrients the first two weeks and water only the subsequent week. This way, you give your plant a chance to rest from nutrient applications.
FAQ’s
Should I use nutrients when I water?
Yes, the nutrients are only added when you water your plants. You should not water a plant with nutrients, then add them to the soil afterwards. They will just sit on top of the soil and do nothing. The nutrients are for your plants when they are actively growing. Soak your fertilizers in water before adding to the soil. Your plants will need nutrients at different times during the growing season.
Your plants may need them every week, or once every two weeks. For example, if you plant tomatoes, you’ll want to fertilize with a tomato fertilizer. This will give your plants the nutrients they need when they are actively growing. If you have a lot of young plants, fertilizing every two weeks will be fine. If you have mature plants, you may want to fertilize once a month. The best time to fertilize is when your plants are actively growing. In the fall, it’s important to start thinking about fall cleanup. It is tempting to wait until the end of the season to deal with garden debris. That’s a mistake, as there are often a few weeks left in the season when fall cleanup can be done successfully. You can do it now, and avoid doing it later when it may be too late to save the season’s harvest. Soil moisture is also essential for healthy plants. If soil is dry, plants have to work harder to get water and nutrients.
How often should I feed my plants?
I’m here to tell you that it depends on what you want to achieve. To answer this question, we need to understand the difference between a plant and a tree. A plant needs to grow up into a tree, so it needs to be fed and watered regularly throughout its life.
I’ve been told that it’s not necessary to feed every week, but it is recommended to feed at least once a week.
I don’t fertilize the soil, but I do fertilize my plants. I fertilize my plants once a month, usually with fish emulsion. It’s not a bad idea to fertilize once a month, though. A good way to find out if you need to fertilize more frequently is to look at your plants’ growth. If you see any wilting or yellowing, then you should fertilize more frequently. You can also look at the color of your leaves, and see if they are becoming duller. If they’re turning brown, then you should fertilize more frequently. I just use a small bucket with about an inch of fish emulsion in it, and add that to the soil.
How long does it take for fertilizer to work on plants?
Fertilizer should be applied as soon as the soil is ready to receive it. This is usually within a few days of planting but there are some crops that can tolerate waiting longer. There is no specific length of time that will work for all types of plants, it just depends on the type and age of the plant, its growth stage, the amount of fertilizer you’re using and how much water the soil is getting.
Should I Use Nutrients Every Time I Water My Indoor & Outdoor Plants
Indoor and outdoor plants’ nutrient requirements differ. Outdoor plants have the opportunity to dive in and search for nutrients in the soil even if the nutrient supply is limited. There is also the additional benefit of rainwater which contains some nutrients and also allows plants to take in nutrients optimally.
However, for indoor plants, there’s no privilege of nutrient-filled rainwater and soil content is also restricted. The good thing about indoor plants is that they are less exposed to outdoor pests. There is also the advantage of not being disturbed by the forces of nature such as wind, scorching sun, etc.
Now when it comes to how often you should give your indoor or outdoor plants nutrients, it will solely depend on how your plants are kept, i.e. their condition. But generally, you should always monitor your plant and decipher if they look like they require addition or boost of nutrients.
May 28, 2021
PH For Hydroponic Lettuce
You might be interested in growing lettuce hydroponically. If you’re wondering what’s the best pH for hydroponic lettuce, we will let you know in this post.
Leafy greens such as lettuce are some of the most common crops to grow in hydroponics. They are especially great for hydroponic newbies. Lettuce is pretty easy to grow and you will derive lots of healthy benefits from incorporating it into your diet.
Now growing hydroponic lettuce has some requirements such as a balanced pH, nutrient solutions, accurate temperature range, etc. We will cover the best pH for hydroponic lettuce and other requirements you need to know. So, read on to learn.
Lettuce Hydroponic System
The lettuce hydroponic system is a method of growing lettuce without the use of soil. Water solutions dissolved in nutrients are used to grow lettuce plants.
With a lettuce hydroponic system, you enjoy faster growth, higher yield, healthier crops, and many more benefits. You can commence lettuce hydroponic by purchasing a complete hydroponic system or go for a DIY unit.
Required pH For Hydroponic Lettuce
Constant monitoring of your lettuce nutrient solutions is paramount in maintaining a smooth and running system.
The required pH for hydroponic lettuce ranges from 5.6 to 6.2. This pH range is acidic enough to reduce the activities of algae and at this pH range, plants can absorb nutrients adequately for their growth.
The pH range for seedlings should be adjusted to 6.4 and as your plant matures, the pH should be adjusted to 6.0.
However, if the pH goes high on the pH scale, it falls into the alkaline range which is not good for your plant. The alkaline range that’s too much or too high can cause a nutrient lockout. Nutrient lockout causes the inability of your hydroponic lettuce plants to absorb nutrients.
When nutrient lockout occurs, your lettuce plants will start to show signs of nutrient deficiencies. Symptoms such as yellowing of leaves, wilting of plants, stunted growth, and so on will be seen.
You may end up losing your lettuce plants if action is not taken fast. Hence, ensure you always monitor your pH levels at least once a day.
You should also note that plants absorb nutrients at various pH ranges. Hence, the pH level is borne to change constantly. The only thing you can do is to make sure they fall in between the lettuce plant’s recommended pH range which is 5.6 to 6.2.
Making use of pH up and pH down products are great to maintain a steady and balanced pH range.
Hydroponics Nutrient Solution For Lettuce
The recommended hydroponic nutrient solutions to successfully grow lettuce are those that contain majorly calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and they are needed in high quantities.
Calcium is especially crucial for the growth of lettuce because a calcium deficiency can cause lettuce leaf tip burns. This issue is very common so ensure the levels of your calcium are accurate.
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The nutrient solutions must provide all necessary key elements for maximum production at their vegetative stage. At the same time, these nutrient solutions must not push the lettuce into its flowering or bolting stage. Flowering only causes bitter lettuce and we want to avoid that.
Although lettuce has different varieties and some are more or less sensitive to nitrogen: always ensure the nutrient solution that you are buying suits the type of lettuce variety you will be growing. Read the nutrient pack instructions for better directions and use.
Other Requirements For Hydroponics Lettuce
- Temperatures: The recommended temperatures should range from 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Note that all varieties of lettuce love cool temperatures. If the temperature is high, bolting or flowering will take place. We however want to prevent bolting from occurring because it always gives rise to bitter lettuce leaves. Temperatures that exceed 77 degrees Fahrenheit will cause bolting.
- Light Requirements: Lettuce plants do not require much light. Light duration from 10 to 15 hours daily is enough. They can be supplied with moderate or low light.
- Aeration: Some lettuce varieties can tolerate low oxygen levels. However, we recommend you always maintain a well-aerated system as this will boost the healthy growth of roots. We recommend dissolved oxygen concentration (DO) to be around 8 ppm.
- Growing media: Lettuce will do well in most growing media such as rock wool, coco coir, etc. However, the main growing medium is the nutrient solution. It is the nutrient solution that provides most of the support for lettuce growth.
Can Vinegar Be Used to Lower pH in Hydroponics?
Vinegar, also known as acetic acid is a weak acid that can be used to lower pH in hydroponics systems. It can however be used only as a temporary solution as it does not remain stable for long.
The pH in hydroponics changes constantly so it would be better to use an acid with more stability, such as phosphoric acid.
How Do You Use a Hydroponic pH Meter?
A pH meter is a very important tool to have and use if you are running a hydroponics system. It is more important than it would be if you were growing plants in the soil. The reason for this is that pH fluctuates more in aquaponics than in a soil-based plant-growing medium.
Soil has what is referred to as a buffering capacity. What this means is that it can correct for pH changes to be the in the right pH range for the plants that you are growing. Soilless growth media such as those used in hydroponics systems lack this ability and advantage.
To be able to manage the pH in your hydroponics system, a pH meter like this one is an absolute necessity. You will need to monitor the pH of our system daily to avoid any adverse consequences. The thing with unfavorable pH changes is that you want to catch them as early as possible before they cause any problems which may damage or even kill your fish. Here is how you use a hydroponic pH meter:
- Using test strips
Using test strips is by far the cheapest way to test your hydroponic pH. Test strips are covered with a pH-sensitive dye that will change color when dipped into the water. You will then compare this color to the color chart to determine the pH of your hydroponics solution
- Liquid test kits
This is another popular method used to test for pH. It is also more accurate than the test strip method, so if you are looking for more accuracy this may be the choice for you. These test kits are commercially available and can be purchased from various distributors. The way this work is that you put a few drops of pH-sensitive dye into a vial containing your water or nutrient solution. The color of the solution will change, and you will compare this color to a color chart to determine the pH, just as you would do with the test strips.
- pH meter
The best and most efficient way to test pH in your hydroponics system is with the use of a digital pH meter. They come in different types and price ranges. You can find one to suit your needs as well as your pocket. Digital pH meters are very easy to use, simply insert the electrode into the water and it will give you a pH reading. Remember to calibrate your meter regularly so that it will give you accurate readings.
Can You Use Hydrochloric Acid to Lower pH in Hydroponics?
Hydrochloric acid can be used to lower pH in hydroponics. It can however be dangerous in high concentrations, as it can damage your plants. So you need to be careful if you use it, or use safer acids such as phosphoric acid which can even be beneficial to your plants by adding phosphates which are plant nutrients.
Conclusion
We hope that you have learned all you needed to know about the required pH for hydroponic lettuce. Remember to always monitor your hydroponic nutrient pH constantly and adjust when you notice any slight change.
Happy growing!
FAQ’s
What is the best hydroponic fertilizer for lettuce?
When grown in soil, lettuce does not need to be fertilized. As long as the plants are getting enough water, they can get their nutrients from the soil. If you are growing in a greenhouse, you should add fish emulsion or compost tea to the soil, which will provide the nutrients needed for your plants.
Lettuce needs a lot of water to grow well. Keep the soil moist, but do not let it get soggy. Water thoroughly when the weather is warm and the soil is dry. A small amount of fertilizer can be applied at this time. Once temperatures cool down in fall, water less often. In order to grow the best-tasting lettuce, plant seeds about 3 weeks before the last frost date. The lettuce seeds will germinate once the temperature warms up in spring. After they have germinated, thin the seedlings so that there is only one or two plants per square foot. This will allow them to grow large and have plenty of room to spread out.
Lettuce needs a slow-release fertilizer to grow, and it also needs high levels of nitrogen. The best time to fertilize lettuce is in the fall. The leaves should be dark green, shiny and crisp. If the lettuce leaves are yellow, they need more nitrogen.
What pH should water be for hydroponics?
The pH of the water is one of the most important factors in growing plants.
There are many different ways to measure the pH of a solution, and there are many different theories as to how much the pH affects plant growth. However, it is safe to say that a pH of around 5.0 is ideal for growing healthy plants. If you use distilled water, you can adjust the pH of the solution easily by adding more or less H2O. However, if you use tap water, you will need to buy some chemicals to make the pH of the water exactly what you want. pH is measured on a scale of 0-14, with 0 being the most acidic, and 14 being the most alkaline.
What happens if pH is too low in hydroponics?
There are a few things that can happen when pH is too low in a hydroponic system. Most of the time, you won’t even notice anything. Your plants will be fine, and you will have a healthy crop. If you’re growing in a soil based hydroponic system, you will need to change your water to ensure that it’s not too acidic. This is important because soil contains many beneficial microbes that are essential for plant growth.
These microbes work with the roots of your plants to absorb nutrients, and they also help break down organic waste in the soil. If your pH is too low, these beneficial microbes will not be able to do their job. Instead, your plants will suffer from nutrient deficiencies and may even die. You can lower the pH of your hydroponic solution using a simple pH test kit. You’ll find that most of the time, the pH of your solution is fine.
May 11, 2021
Types Of Rooting Hormones
Let’s discuss types of rooting hormones. Plants cuttings are easy to propagate. However, for successful propagation, they require a key element known as rooting hormones. Rooting hormones are great to kick start your propagation and they will assist in accelerated root growth.
If you’ve never tried rooting hormone for your cuttings then you’re missing a great deal. Rooting hormone will never have a negative impact on your propagation so there’s no harm in trying it.
We will be looking at the various types of rooting hormones you can use for your cloning. So, let’s dive in and find out the various types of rooting hormones.
What Is Rooting Hormone?
Rooting hormones are gel stimulants which contain natural chemicals for plans and it’s used to signal root growth especially for cuttings. These rooting hormones are produced by plants naturally for root growth. Now scientists have generated a way of synthesizing this hormone in the lab for the use of plant cuttings.
Plants naturally produce hormones for the development of roots and shoots. We have different types of these hormones such as cytokinins, auxins, and gibberellins. The hormone used for rooting is auxins. It is these auxins that stimulate and enhance rooting in plant cuttings.
Although auxins are produced by plants for root development, auxins are also synthesized in the lab. The synthesized auxins are the ones commercially available as rooting hormones and they are generated from plants.
Apart from enhancing root growth, the rooting hormone also maintains a sterile surface for your cuttings. Thus, you also enjoy healthy overall growth.
Plants cuttings rely on rooting hormones or they might not root properly. Hence, it is an essential key for cloning plants.
Types Of Rooting Hormones
There are 3 major types of rooting hormones namely: liquid rooting hormone, gel rooting hormone, and powder rooting hormone.
1. Liquid
The liquid rooting hormone is one of the most common types of rooting hormone. The liquid comes in two types: the concentrated and the standard strength (ready to use). The concentration requires diluting before application. The standard strength can be used right away. Note when making use of the ready-to-use liquid rooting hormone, pour the one to be used in a separate container. Do not insert your cuttings directly into the bottle. This is to prevent contamination. Once it’s in a separate container, dip the stem of your cuttings in the liquid rooting hormone. You can now put your cuttings in your growing medium.
DIP N Grow DG00201 Liquid Hormone Concentrate Rooting Solution, 2-Ounce
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2. Gel
Out of the various types of rooting hormone, the gel is the most loved among growers. It is pre-mixed and convenient to use. Simply put the portion you wish to use in a container and insert your cuttings into the gel. The gel will comfortably stick to the cuttings giving the stem a thick coat that serves as protection and they won’t wash away easily. With that, your cuttings are ready to go into your growing medium.
3. Powder
Powder rooting hormone lasts longer as it offers more shelf life. You can make use of the powder for several growing seasons if stored in the right conditions. To use, pour the powder rooting hormone in a separate container to prevent contamination. You can insert the cuttings into the water to encourage the powder to stick to your cuttings. Now insert the wet cuttings into the powder rooting hormone and give it a little shake to take off excess powder. Then it’s ready to go into your growing medium.
Homemade Rooting Hormones
You may be surprised you may have a rooting hormone in your house. Honey is one perfect example of homemade rooting hormone. Although it may not produce quick results as a commercial rooting hormone. You just need to give it a little time to work.
Honey has some naturally occurring rooting hormone. In addition, it offers anti fungi and antiseptic features to protect your cuttings from infection. The gel nature encourages a consistent steam coating that sticks.
FAQ’s
Which is the best rooting hormone?
We are all aware that rooting is necessary in order to achieve a successful plant. But we often wonder what is the best rooting hormone to use. Rooting hormone is a compound that is added to the soil mix and helps the roots to grow and penetrate through the soil.
It is important to understand that there are different types of rooting hormones and they are used in different ways. Rooting hormone is also known as root growth stimulator or root growth promoter. The most common type of rooting hormone is Ipomoea. This is a fast growing plant that can be easily grown indoors. It is not recommended to use Ipomoea when the plants are growing outdoors. You should use it when the plant is in the soil or pot. It is available in different types such as powder, gel and liquid. The powder and gel is available in different concentrations. You can easily dissolve them in water and apply on the root area. The liquid is available in different concentrations and it can be diluted with water and applied on the roots. The powder and gel are easy to use and can be used in both hydroponic and soil based growing systems.
Are there different types of rooting hormone?
There are many types of rooting hormones available on the market, and they all do a job for which they were designed. Rooting hormone has two basic functions. First, it promotes the uptake of nutrients into the root by loosening the soil around the roots. Second, it helps the roots to absorb water.
In the past, the main type of rooting hormone was the so-called “growth hormone,” which was sold as a liquid, or in capsules. Today, most companies sell a combination of growth hormone and a form of calcium that has been shown to be just as effective. When purchasing rooting hormone, always look for one that contains both types of hormone. You can also buy a pre-made combination of growth hormone and calcium in a concentrated form that will dissolve when watered. If you are growing vegetables and flowers indoors, the best thing you can do is to use a product that contains calcium and growth hormone. These products are available from many garden centers and mail-order outlets.
What is a natural rooting hormone?
Rooting hormones, also known as root stimulants or growth stimulants, are chemicals used to promote root development in plants. Rooting hormones are often added to the soil around seedlings and plants to encourage root growth. These chemicals can be organic or synthetic. Organic rooting hormones are made from natural materials, such as plant extracts, and are less toxic than their synthetic counterparts.
Is banana a rooting hormone?
Bananas aren’t really a rooting hormone. They are actually quite high in gibberellic acid (GA), a plant hormone that promotes growth. This is why bananas are often used as houseplants and why you see them in nurseries.
Additional Note On Types Of Rooting Hormones
Growers depend on rooting hormone for propagation cuttings and it has been showing great results ever since. Rooting hormone is a key element that will stimulate the growth of roots to give you a successful propagation and there are various types of rooting hormone to choose from.
Apart from making use of rooting hormone for successful propagation, you should as well take some other important factors into consideration for great results. Things like selecting only cuttings from plants with good traits. Avoid infected plants or plants that have no good quality growth features. This will ensure your cloned plant gives excellent propagation at the end.
May 11, 2021
Best Soil For Aloe Vera Plant
The juicy aloe Vera plant is one of the famous succulents know all over the world. They originate from the arid region in the North of Africa. Most aloe Vera thrives in the desert or arid parts and they do not like too much water in their soil. Therefore, choosing the best soil for the Aloe Vera plant is essential for their growth.
Aloe Vera plant will grow accurately in well-drained soil. The plant does not like soggy or damp soil or else it may lead to root rot.
All types of Aloe Vera plants need sandy or soil with gravel. These types of soil are well-draining which makes them ideal for aloe plants. We will be giving you some tips on how to choose the best soil for your Aloe Vera plant, so read on to find out.
Best Soil for Aloe Vera Plant
Aloe Vera needs well-draining soil. Except you live in a desert, planting aloes outdoors especially will require you to amend the soil to suit the nature of your plant. Outdoor aloes will need drainage help, especially for wet climates.
To improve outdoors, you can simply amend with granite, pumice, or coarse soil. It is also ideal to do a raised planting with outdoor aloes.
For indoors or containers Aloe Vera plants, they will do well in commercial potting mix.
Commercial Cactus Mix For Aloe Vera Plant
One good choice of soil for the Aloe Vera Plant is the commercial cactus mix. This commercial mix comprises mostly sand, perlite, peat, bark, vermiculite, and pumice.
When choosing cactus mix for your Aloe Vera plant, always pick large particle sizes to promote drainage. Avoid using regular potting soil alone because they don’t drain well.
Potting Soil For Aloe Vera Plant
Using potting soil for your Aloe Vera plant is alright. But they have to be modified for better drainage. To make them better for drainage add coconut coir, freshly chopped bark, or peat.
Furthermore, you can combine them with pumice, granite dust, and coarse sand. This way, the soil mixture will get the chance to become relatively large particles.
Some Recommended Soil For Aloe Vera Plant
We will be recommending some commercial soil you can use for your Aloe Vera plant. So read on to find out.
1. The Next Gardener Professional Grower Mix Soil Fast Draining
The professional grower mix is one of the best soil mixes for the Aloe Vera plant. It is basically ideal for succulents and cacti of various plants.
This soil mix is well-draining and dries out fast which is what is needed for dessert plants like Aloe Vera. It will prevent the rotting of roots from overwatering. It will also provide plant support to your Aloe Vera and it has a great consistency.
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2.    Bonsai Jack Succulent and Cactus Soil – Jacks Gritty Mix
Bonsai Jack is a fast-draining potting soil and will be great for your Aloe Vera plant. It is nutrient mixed, therefore, will provide your aloe plant some good nutrient.
This soil will enhance the growth of your aloes and your plant will stand a good chance.
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3.    Hoffman Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix
Hoffman soil mix is specially made for desert plants such as Aloe Vera. It is a well-draining soil mix and it gives good aeration. It is ready to use and it’s definitely a formula for root rot.
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4.    rePotme Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix – Imperial Blend
This is another good choice of soil to use for your aloe plant. It is great for various cacti and succulent plants. It is pretty easy to use and it drains well, thus, your Aloe Vera will stand a good chance with this soil.
Another great thing is that it is blended with diatomite which is effective against insect pests.
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FAQ’s
How do I care for my aloe vera?
Most of the time you will only need to water your aloe vera plant. However, if you notice brown patches on the leaves, you should water the plant more frequently. Aloe vera likes full sun, so you will want to make sure it gets enough light. You will also want to keep the soil moist. Aloe vera will need to be repotted every year. The plant will grow best in a container that is about one gallon in size. You will want to use a good quality potting soil mix. You may also want to add some fertilizer, but this is not necessary.
You will also need to water it if the soil is dry. A good way to tell if your soil is dry is to look at the surface of the soil. If it is dry, there will be no moisture on the surface of the soil. You should use a soaker hose and water the soil until it is moist.
What is a good soil mix for aloe vera?
There are many types of soil mixes. Some are designed for planting trees and shrubs. Others are specifically designed for aloe plants. Some people mix together all three in one container and plant their aloes. However, I prefer to separate the three. That way, you can plant the tree/shrub soil mixture with your regular soil mixture, and plant your aloe plants in their own soil. Aloe vera requires a well-draining soil.
There are a few factors to consider when mixing soil for an aloe vera plant. Soil temperature. Aloe vera likes temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees F. You will need to find a place that has these conditions. If you live in a cold climate, you can move the plant indoors or to a greenhouse or a location with warmer temperatures. Soil moisture. Aloe vera requires a moist soil, but not too much.
You will have to monitor the soil and water it as needed. Aloe vera likes full sun. Aloe vera is easy to grow and can be grown in containers.
How do I fertilize my aloe?
Your aloe plant needs some type of fertilizer.
You can use a liquid fertilizer or you can add food to the soil around your aloe. You can also use an organic fertilizer if you have one available.
How do I repot my aloe?
Repotting is a great way to give your aloe a new start. When you repot your aloe, you will have to remove the soil from the pot. Then, you will need to add some fresh soil. You can use a soil mix that has compost, peat moss, vermiculite, sand, perlite, or sphagnum moss. You will also want to add some fertilizer and some water. After that, you will need to plant your aloe into its new soil.
What are the best places for an aloe to grow?
You can grow an aloe in the ground or in a pot. The best place for your aloe is in the ground.
What should I feed my aloe?
You should feed your aloe regularly.
If you’re using the dry-mix method, you want to use a high-carbon soil mix like a soil-less potting mix. The reason for this is that the soil will eventually become compacted and hard, which may cause the plant roots to have trouble penetrating it. Also, your plant is not designed to grow in a clay/sand mix.
You should use a liquid fertilizer that contains a balance of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and magnesium. You can use the same type of fertilizer that you would use for your houseplants.
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Regardless of the type of soil you use, when planting in containers, ensure you don’t use too much soil. Aloe Vera plants are shallow-rooted. For this reason, small containers are best used because bigger containers may accumulate moisture and cause root rot.
Therefore, to prevent your aloe plant from getting waterlogged, use only small containers. You can also re-pot your aloe plant once every year.
Aloe Vera is usually grown indoors as a houseplant in most places in the United States. However, you can plant them outdoors whenever the weather is hot. But when the temperature falls below the freezing point for a long time, they must be protected or taken indoors if they are planted in containers.
November 29, 2020