HYDROPONIC CANNABIS CULTIVATION: HOW TO DO IT?

There are a lot of hydroponic systems out there, and there is a huge amount of information to navigate through to understand the differences. All these systems have their advantages and disadvantages. Their choice depends mainly on personal preference and growing goals. In this article, we will list the five most popular hydroponic systems for growing cannabis.

Hydroponic growing systems

Hydroponics is a method of growing cannabis that uses water as the base medium. Hydroponic cannabis is the name given to any cannabis that is grown without the use of soil. Hydroponic cannabis can be grown in a variety of ways, such as in clay pebbles, in air only or in rockwool.

Advantages of hydroponic cultivation

Growing cannabis hydroponically allows plants to grow taller, grow faster and produce higher yields. This is mainly because the nutrients in a hydroponic system are much more readily available to the plants. The nutrients are dissolved in the water and penetrate directly into the root system because there is no soil present. In contrast, the roots have to search for nutrients in the soil. Easy access to nutrients allows plants to save energy, which they can then devote to growth.

Disadvantages of hydroponic growing

This system can be somewhat complicated because it requires a lot of intervention on the part of the grower. It is necessary to control the pH level so that the plants can absorb all the nutrients and grow as much as possible.

What growing media is used in hydroponic growing?

Growing media are soil substitutes used in hydroponic growing. The hydroponic system of growing cannabis requires a growing medium that allows enough air to be supplied to the plant while the roots of the plant can reach the nutrients in the water. There are many growing mediums to choose from when growing cannabis hydroponically. The most popular ones are listed below.

Rockwool rockwool

Probably one of the most popular options for hydroponic growing. Rockwool is a material made from fused stone fibers. The main advantage of this wool is its ability to retain water, which ensures sufficient hydration for the root system. The disadvantage is that it can contain high pH levels.

Air

Althoughplant roots are primarily designed to grow in soil, they can also grow in air. Air can be a very effective growing medium because the roots need plenty of oxygen to grow, but at the same time, constant humidity must be maintained to prevent the roots from drying out.

Clay pebbles

Clay pebbles are popular for their root aeration. The pH should be adjusted occasionally to achieve an optimal growing environment. Pebbles should be placed in plastic trays to allow the roots to grow through.

The most common types of hydroponic growing systems

There are many types of hydroponic growing systems that differ in their complexity and have their own advantages and disadvantages. All of these systems are similar in that they use nutrient-enriched water. However, their set-ups can vary considerably depending on factors such as the amount of water and how it is circulated. Be sure to consider your level of expertise, the amount of money and time you are willing to invest, and how many plants you want to get for your garden.

Deepwater technology

If you are a beginner who has never built or used a hydroponic system before, this technology is the best choice for you. The hallmark of deepwater technology is a tank that is capable of holding a large amount of water. An air pump with an appropriate air filter will ensure that the water is sufficiently oxygenated. This method contributes to rapid plant growth and is relatively easy to set up.

Nutrient Film Technique

TheNutrient Film Technique is characterised by the fact that it does not use a growing medium, which allows the roots of the plants to grow to a large width. It provides the roots with a constant supply of water and nutrients. As a result, high yields can be achieved in a short time. This method is ideal for commercial large-scale cultivation.

Ebb and Flow

In the ebb and flow system, the roots are flooded with water for a few seconds and then drained several times during the day. Water channels draw nutrients from an external tank, air stones are used for aeration and a pump helps with the movement of the water. This flooding has to be done three times a day, which is why automated modes are preferred for this method.

Aeroponics

The aeroponic system is the most advanced hydroponic system. Aeroponic growing uses no growing medium, so the roots of the plants can hang freely. A nutrient solution is continuously sprayed on the roots, allowing the plants to take in large amounts of air and water at the same time. The advantage of this method is that it aids the uptake and absorption of nutrients, which results in faster plant growth.

Drip system

The drip system is the most common variant of hydroponic growing and is one of the fastest because each plant receives the same amount of nutrients. This system involves a large bowl filled with growing medium. The system also includes sprinkler tubes. The plants thus receive a regular supply of nutrients, which drip onto them via pumps connected to the water tanks. The roots of the plants are also constantly exposed to air.

Which hydroponic system to choose?

Only you can decide which hydroponic systems are best suited to your growing needs. Choosing the best hydroponic system depends on how much effort and money you are willing to invest. The basics are to start simple, choose a suitable variety and keep a close eye on your plants' needs. Growing in a hydroponic system is very rewarding, and the work you put in will pay off in the form of fast growth and a bountiful harvest.

Now you know the most popular types of hydroponic growing systems. How about turning theory into practice and trying hydroponic growing for yourself? Buy cannabis seeds with up to 1% THC and get started!