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Additional Info

PancakeLegend edited this page Jul 30, 2019 · 7 revisions

Interesting things we've learned along the way.

pH

Over time the pH of the nutrient solution in the reservoir will change. From our experience, it typically tends toward becoming more acidic. Here is an explanation of what is occurring. It is a product of the nutrients in the water breaking down the water into hydrogen and hydroxide ions. Depending on the ratio of ions formed, it will tend more acidic or basic.

Nutrients

Given that we're no longer using soil, the plants need access to nutrients which are supplied in the water. Nutrient solutions typically contain a broad range of elements in a concentrated form. The following is a list of you would expect to find in most products.

Nitrogen (N), Potassium (K), Phosphorus (P), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sulphur (S), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Molybdate (Mo), Boron (B), Chlorine (Cl)

Different plants fare better or worse depending on the nutrient concentration and pH, so monitoring the nutrient levels and choosing plants appropriately will be necessary. A great environment for one plant may be less advantageous to others.

Chlorophyll Absorption Spectrum

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