fbpx

Mastering Hydroponics: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing Nutrients and Measuring TDS

Hydroponics is a fascinating and efficient way to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. However, getting the right nutrient balance can be a bit tricky, especially for beginners. This guide breaks down essential steps to prepare and manage your hydroponic nutrient solution, ensuring your plants get exactly what they need. Let’s dive in!


The Basics: Setting Up Your Nutrient Solution

Step 1: Know Your Mixing Container’s Volume Before anything else, understand the capacity of your mixing container. This ensures you’re mixing the right amounts of nutrients.

Step 2: Fill the Container with Water Use water with low parts per million (ppm) and keep the temperature below 70°F (21°C).

Step 3: Stir the Water Use a stirring stick or submersible pump to create a swirling motion in the water. Measure the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of this base water.

Step 4: Prepare Nutrients Separately Weigh the recommended amount of each nutrient. For example, for 100 gallons, you need:

  • 8 ounces of the main nutrient mix (8-15-36)
  • 8 ounces of calcium nitrate
  • 5 ounces of magnesium sulfate

Always refer to manufacturer guidelines for accurate dosages.


Mixing the Nutrient Solution

Step 1: Add Nutrients One by One Start with the first nutrient, ensuring it dissolves completely before adding the next. Warm water (up to 70°F/21°C) is useful for dissolving calcium nitrate.

Step 2: Measure and Adjust pH Check the pH of the solution. It should be between 6 and 6.5. If it’s too high or low, use a pH adjuster.

Step 3: Check the TDS The ideal TDS should be around 1575 ppm, plus the TDS of your base water.


Understanding Nutrient Strength: TDS, EC, and PPM

Hydroponic nutrient strength is measured using Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), and Parts Per Million (PPM). Here’s what you need to know:

  • TDS and PPM: In the U.S., nutrient concentration is often expressed in ppm. This indicates how many parts of nutrients are dissolved per million parts of water.
  • EC: This measures the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution, indicating how many salts and minerals are in the water. EC is usually measured in milli-Siemens (mS) or micro-Siemens (µS).

Conversion Tips:

  1. 1 milli-Siemen (mS) = 1,000 micro-Siemens (µS).
  2. Different regions may use different standards: the U.S. often uses ppm, while Europe prefers EC.

How to Get the Right Nutrient Levels

Achieving the perfect nutrient balance for your hydroponic system is part science, part art. Follow these tips to get started:

  1. Seedlings: Use less than 250 ppm or 0.5 mS, plus source water.
  2. Vegetative Plants: Keep the TDS between 600-800 ppm or 1.2-1.6 mS.
  3. Adjust for Specific Crops:
    • Lettuce: pH 6-6.5, TDS 600-800 ppm.
    • Tomatoes: pH 5.5-6.5, TDS 1200-2500 ppm.
    • Cabbage: pH 6.5-7, TDS 1700-2200 ppm.
    • Peppers: pH 5.8-6.3, TDS 1400-2100 ppm.

During hot weather, nutrient concentration may need to be reduced to avoid stressing the plants. Conversely, increase the nutrient concentration in cooler weather.


Replenishing and Topping Up Nutrients

To maintain a balanced nutrient solution:

  1. Measure the TDS or EC regularly.
  2. Top up with water and nutrients if needed.
    • If the TDS is too high, dilute the solution with plain water.
    • If the TDS is too low, add a more concentrated nutrient mix.

Don’t Over-Fertilize: More nutrients don’t always mean better growth. Too many nutrients can cause “nutrient burn,” where leaf edges start to discolor. If you see signs of nutrient burn, lower the nutrient concentration.


Flushing and Preventing Build-Up

Flushing helps remove excess salts from the root zone:

  1. Move the plant to a separate container.
  2. Pour a half-strength nutrient mix over the roots.
  3. Check the TDS of the runoff.
  4. Repeat until the runoff is at the desired strength.

Hydroponic Nutrient Recipes

Different nutrient recipes can be used depending on your crop. Here are some examples:

Recipe No.NutrientAmount (per liter)
1Monocalcium phosphate0.140 g
Potassium nitrate0.550 g
Calcium nitrate0.100 g
Magnesium sulfate0.140 g
2Calcium nitrate1.000 g
Magnesium sulfate0.500 g
3Calcium nitrate434.00 g (per 500L)

Tips for Mixing:

  • Weigh out nutrients carefully using an accurate scale.
  • Always mix in the specified order to avoid precipitation of nutrients.

Summary for Instagram Reels and Infographics

Key Points:

  • Start by understanding your container volume.
  • Keep water temperature below 70°F (21°C).
  • Stir well and measure TDS before adding nutrients.
  • Mix nutrients in the correct order; dissolve calcium nitrate separately.
  • Adjust pH to 6-6.5.
  • Monitor TDS and adjust accordingly.
  • Avoid over-fertilization to prevent nutrient burn.
  • Flush regularly to prevent nutrient buildup.
  • Follow crop-specific nutrient guidelines for optimal growth.

Quick Tips:

  • Lower nutrient concentration in summer.
  • Increase solution concentration in winter.
  • Regularly check and adjust TDS/EC.

This guide simplifies hydroponics, making it accessible for anyone to try. With the right balance of nutrients, your plants can thrive in a soil-free environment

Read more

About Us

Welcome to Agriculture Novel, your go-to source for in-depth information and insights into the world of agriculture, hydroponics, and sustainable farming. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and empower a new generation of farmers, hobbyists, and eco-conscious enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in traditional farming practices or modern innovations, we aim to provide comprehensive guides, expert tips, and the latest updates in agriculture and urban farming.

At Agriculture Novel, we believe in the power of knowledge to transform the way we grow, sustain, and nourish our world. Explore our articles on topics like Fruit Growing Guide, Hydroponics,  Plant Deficiency Guide, and more.

Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a greener, more sustainable future!


About Agronique Horizon
At Agronique Horizon, we specialize in delivering comprehensive digital marketing and web development solutions tailored for the agriculture and hydroponics industries. From custom website design and app development to social media management, we provide end-to-end support for brands aiming to make a meaningful impact. Our team also offers innovative solutions for the real estate sector, bringing precision and visibility to your projects. Learn more about our services here and discover how we can elevate your digital presence

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Agriculture Novel

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading