Hydroponic Plants - Causes of Unhealthy Roots and How You Can Manage Them
It was not until now that I've understood that the success of cultivating hydroponic plants does not just depend on the nutrient solution or the growing medium used. What it really will take for the seeds to develop well is in fact, mainly dependent on the roots, to keep hydroponic plants firmly erect above water and to control the flow of nutrients as they grow.
In this article, I'll share with you some facts which will help you recognize factors that can prevent hydroponic plants reach their maximum growth potential.
It All Starts at the Roots
The absorption of water and nutrients starts at the tiny, hairy tips of the roots. It's a sensitive part and may die as the roots grow deeper.
• When directly exposed to light, the roots can still function normally provided that the growing environment is 100% humid. But this condition can promote growth of algae, which can compete in absorbing water, nutrients and oxygen. Algae will absorb a fraction of nourishment that will result in deficiencies.
• Hydroponic plants have very little chance to live when the root zone is in bad condition. A limited supply of oxygen can cause suffocation. As the roots get weaker, the rate of nutrient intake gets lesser and lesser. Water gets stagnant and may lead to rotting of the root, and plant growth weakens due to dehydration. The roots' color will then change from healthy white to dried up brown.
Surely, the aeroponics technique can maximize oxygenation but the result can cause more complications and you can put your plants at very high risk of becoming fragile.
How to Keep the Roots in Healthy Condition
It's very important that you monitor the pH level of the nutrient solution. This will determine how healthy the roots are. Litmus paper may be used as an alternative tester but note that the result will not be very accurate. For some growers, it's most effective to use a small tube then fill it with nutrient solution and add a few drops of chemical indicator.
The size of the roots can vary on what you want to cultivate, from seedling to fruit, and the moment will come that you will be transplanting your hydroponics plants.
• When doing that, be gentle while keeping the roots wet as you possibly can.
• If the flow of absorption is blocked, the roots position can be realigned but be very careful because any movement will cause damage.
• To block light, simply swap transparent containers with darker colors.
Take much more time researching on the internet. Gather plenty of information so that you'll be able to recognize all signs of weakening or decaying in the root zone. If you make an effort, I am positive that your hydroponic plants can get the nourishment that they need.
About the Author
If you are still confused, please do not wait any longer and discover more about the required nutrient solution and growing medium for your hydroponics plants, and as well as other soil-free gardening kits at http://www.myhydroponicskits.com/
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