![]() ![]() Therefore, an elevated EC denotes a higher concentration of nutrients. However, adding even a small amount of minerals can drastically change the EC.įertilizer mixes contain salts like nitrates and phosphates, which will affect the EC of the nutrient solution. Together, they allow the conduction of electrical currents in the water.ĭistilled water has 0 EC since the distillation process removes all the microscopic solids. Sodium, a metal, makes positive ions, while the non-metal chlorine produces negative ions. When salt (sodium chloride) mixes with water, it forms charged particles called ions. What is EC?Įlectrical conductivity, or EC, refers to how well dissolved solids conduct electricity, measured in milliSiemens or microSiemens. It tells you how much nutrients you are feeding the plants and if they are or aren’t enough. TDS gives you a clear idea of the strength or concentration of your nutrient solution. To prevent inaccurate readings, many growers use distilled water which does not contain any particles. When you add fertilizer and micronutrients, then obviously, the TDS increases. The ideal TDS for domestic water supplies is less than 100 ppm, but it could be as high as 400 ppm in some areas. Tap water typically contains calcium, magnesium, and chlorine. However, it will not tell you what type of minerals are present. It measures the total quantity of minerals dissolved in water. TDS stands for Totally Dissolved Solids, expressed in parts per million (ppm). A simple handheld TDS meter or ECS meter will do. For home growers, this is not applicable. In a laboratory setting, this is usually done by evaporating the liquid and measuring the residue. To calculate the correct amount of nutrients in your watering solution, you have to check the TDS or EC. At the same time, they also require phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.įurthermore, you have to provide micronutrients – minerals used in lower quantities such as zinc, iron, manganese, molybdenum, chlorine, cobalt, and more. Marijuana plants need plenty of nitrogen, especially in the vegetative stage. On the other hand, too much (nutrient burn or toxicity) will also result in similar problems. Too little (nutrient deficiency) will cause stunted growth and poor flowering. However, success depends on how much to add. Rapid growth and high yields are made possible by adding minerals and micronutrients to the soil. Smart pots and air-pots, on the other hand, provide extra aeration without having to add perlite. Standard gardening pots work better with perlite-mixed soil. Plastic and terra cotta pots remain common, while fabric pots (smart pots) and air-pots are increasingly popular. An excess can, as a matter of fact, reduce overall yields.Īs for growing containers, there is a wide variety of options. These soil types continuously release nitrogen for up to 6 months, which is unnecessary during the plants’ flowering/budding stage. One advantage it offers is that the buds produced will have a better smell/taste profile.Īvoid any commercial soil mixes that have “extended-release” nutrients. Some growers use organic “super soil” – a variation of composted soil that delivers everything plants need at the right time, without adding extra nutrients or managing the pH. Adding 30% perlite and 10% vermiculite helps loosen and improve aeration. If it seems too dense or heavy, one possible problem could be poor drainage, which suffocates the roots, hindering the absorption of oxygen. Any high-quality organic soil mix will do. ![]() It remains the most natural substrate to use, one in which your plants can thrive and reach their full potential. You have to be more vigilant in catching problems early to avoid disappointments later.Īt any rate, you may have to replace the soil before growing the next batch of plants.ĭespite some of these potential problems, you cannot go wrong with soil mediums – specially if following a good cannabis feeding schedule. On the flip side, any extra expenses incurred will probably be replacing broken containers. Another option is to compost your soil.Ĭomposting, incidentally, is an excellent way of controlling and ensuring you have the correct nutrient and pH levels for your plants.Īfter completing the initial setup, maintenance is relatively simple – make sure you’re watering your cannabis plants, providing nutrients, and managing the pH. ![]() Indoors, you will most likely have to buy from a garden supply store to start, and just add nutrients as your plants grow. In the wild, cannabis grows in soil, always has, and always will.Īs its natural environment, this substrate is simple and more intuitive to use. For sure, there are a whole host of reasons to grow marijuana in soil. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |