After topping
Due to space limitations, I’d like them to grow more horizontally, so I topped them on July 1. They are doing well so far since I switched to a weaker nutrient solution.
I added a reflective “cover” on the hydroponics mesh structure to maximize light on the plants and to keep my eyes from getting tired.
Even though a weaker nutrient solution works, I can’t tell whether the current nutrient level is actually optimal, or if the plants are just tough and managing somehow.
- Find an EC meter.
- Purchase FloraBloom.
After covering the hydroponics zone, the plants don’t get enough airflow. The LED lights are adding heat, and the hydroponics zone already lacks airflow since it’s indoors.
- Find a small silent fan.
- Both the EC meter and the fan need to be small and reasonably priced.
- If the EC meter also works for pH, that would be a big bonus!
Risk of nutrient imbalance and heat stress, which negatively impacts the plants’ health and total harvest.
Happy plants!
YINMIK EC/PH meter. (+ Temperature) $44.03Amazon Canada
General Hydroponics FloraBloom $24.99Amazon Canada
At first, I was looking for a small “portable fan,” but I accidentally found that there are fans for gaming devices and laptops. The same company that makes my net cups even sells a fan. It’s perfect because I found that this kind of fan blows more directly “forward” rather than dispersing the air widely.
AC Infinity 80mm USB Fan $18.99Amazon Canada
- From my research, EC needs to be around 1.1–1.3 for leafy greens. Papers often say 1.2–1.3 is optimal for lettuce, but I need to see what works best for my setup.
- At first, I thought I could somehow get by with just Flora Gro and Micro, but I found it hard to micromanage the NPK ratio, so I’m adding Bloom to my collection.