How To Monitor Your Hydroponics Garden For Maximum Yields

Setting up a hydroponics growing operation can be a daunting yet highly rewarding endeavour. With benefits such as maximised space, water conservation and a decreased risk of pests, it's easy to see why an increasing number of enthusiastic gardeners are turning to this alternative method of growing to increase their yields and boost the quality of their crops. However, no hydroponic garden is 100% foolproof - monitoring your set-up closely is crucial to a successful operation. Read on to find out more. 

Temperature

Maintaining an appropriate temperature range for your hydroponic system is essential for optimal plant growth. Although the ideal temperature will vary depending on your plant species, it is generally recommended to keep the temperature of the nutrient solution within the range of 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. To monitor the temperature of your nutrient solution, you will need to place a good-quality submersible thermometer directly into your water tank or reservoir. Monitoring the air temperature within your growing environment is also advisable, as it impacts crucial processes like photosynthesis, respiration and germination.

pH Levels

The pH of your nutrient solution is another crucial factor in ensuring optimal growth and maximum yields. You should aim to keep the pH within the range of 5.5 to 6.5, promoting efficient nutrient absorption and metabolic processes within your plants. There are several methods of measuring and monitoring the pH of your nutrient solution, including liquid test kits, litmus strips and electronic pH metres, the latter of which is the most accurate and efficient. The ability to accurately monitor pH levels will enable you to amend nutrient deficiencies or toxicities that prevent your hydroponic plants from thriving. 

EC Levels

Electrical conductivity (EC) refers to the ability of a nutrient solution to conduct an electrical current - this is an essential indicator of the concentration of dissolved minerals within the solution. Monitoring your system’s EC levels enables you to assess and adjust the mineral content to meet your plant’s specific requirements. Investing in a reliable EC metre is the best way to ensure your nutrient solution is safe and optimised for healthy crop cultivation. 

Light Exposure And Intensity

Light plays a pivotal role in plant growth - all plants require light for photosynthesis, the process of converting light, oxygen and water into carbohydrates (energy). The intensity, duration, and spectrum of light your hydroponic plants receive are vital factors to consider in maintaining optimal growing conditions. You can monitor and adjust the quality and quantity of light in your growing environment by using a light metre. This helpful device will provide a reliable means of quantifying the light intensity, enabling you to assess whether the plants are receiving appropriate levels of illumination.

Nutrients

A consistent and balanced nutrient supply is essential for the optimal growth of hydroponic plants. However, this will vary depending on the type of hydroponic system you are using, as well as the species of plants you are cultivating. To ensure accurate management, you could use a nutrient metre to precisely assess and adjust the nutrient concentration as needed. You could also use a Canna Feed Chart or nutrient chart to help you calculate what quantity of nutrients your plants need at each stage.

Helpful Monitoring Methods

As we have established, by recording variables such as nutrient levels, pH balance, water temperature, humidity, and lighting duration, you gain valuable insights into the environment of your hydroponic set-up. Careful monitoring will allow you to promptly address any emerging issues and ensure optimal growth and health for your hydroponic plants. 

• Log Books - Arguably, the most straightforward way to monitor your hydroponic system is to record your findings in a log book or diary. You could achieve this with a physical journal or a notepad app on your smartphone or tablet. Journaling can be advantageous for any form of growing or gardening, as outlined in this article. 

• Alarms - Setting up alarms and alerts within your hydroponic set-up to inform you of significant changes to your growing conditions enables you to address any issues and make necessary adjustments swiftly.

• Smart Monitoring - Using app-compatible growing equipment, you can remotely monitor and control your hydroponic growing conditions from your smartphone. The ability to conveniently access real-time data and visuals of your hydroponic set-up grants you the ability to effectively manage and optimise plant growth regardless of where you are.