Hydroponics is a cultivation technique that allows plants to be grown without the need for soil, using aqueous solutions with the following ingredients: essential nutrients for its development. Due to its efficiency y ease of implementation In small spaces, it has become an ideal option for those who want to grow indoor plants in a practical and sustainable way.
One of the fundamental aspects of hydroponics is fertilizer. In this article, we will explore how to prepare homemade hydroponic fertilizers using accessible ingredients and effective methods to ensure your plants get all the nutrients essential nutrients.
Why opt for homemade hydroponic fertilizers?
Using homemade fertilizers for hydroponics is not only more for all Economic commitment than commercials, but also allows customize the nutrient solution according to the needs of each plant. In addition, the preparation process is simple and can be carried out with ingredients that in many cases we already have at home.
Essential components of a homemade hydroponic fertilizer
For plants to grow healthily in a hydroponic system, they need a balanced combination of macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfur) and micronutrients (Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Copper, Boron, Molybdenum).
The most common ingredients for making hydroponic fertilizer at home include:
- Calcium nitrate: Fundamental for the crecimiento of leaves and stems.
- Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salts): It favors the photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.
- Boric acid: Essential for the correct cell formation.
- Zinc sulfate: Support the metabolism of the plants.
Homemade recipe for hydroponic fertilizer
To prepare a universal homemade hydroponic fertilizer, mix the following ingredients in 10 liters of water:
- 15 g of calcium nitrate
- 10 g of magnesium sulfate
- 5 g of monopotassium phosphate
- 2 g of zinc sulphate
- 1 g boric acid
Dissolve the ingredients well in the water and check that there are no traces left. Solid waste. If you want to ensure that plants efficiently absorb nutrients, adjust the pH of the solution to a level between 5.5 and 6.5.
Eco-friendly alternatives with kitchen scraps
If you are looking for another option organic farming, you can use kitchen waste to create a nutritious fertilizer. Ingredients such as banana peels, eggshells y Coffee grounds They provide essential nutrients that benefit plants.
A simple method to make homemade liquid fertilizer is:
- Grind leftover fruits and vegetables in a blender with a liter of water.
- Strain the mixture and dilute the resulting liquid in five parts water.
- Apply directly to the estate of hydroponic plants.
This organic fertilizer provides nutrients immediately and contributes to a more sustainable crop.
Tips for proper use of hydroponic fertilizer
- Controls electrical conductivity: Measure the concentration of Sales in the solution helps prevent nutrient overload.
- Ensures good oxygenation: Use one air pump to keep the water rich in oxygen.
- Renew the solution every 15 days: To avoid build-up and ensure a balanced contribution of nutrients.
Making homemade hydroponic fertilizer is an excellent way to improve the growth of your indoor plants, avoiding the use of industrial chemicals. Whether with mineral salts or kitchen scraps, a good nutrient solution guarantees optimal plant development and promotes their resistance.
In addition to fertilizers, it is crucial to understand how the hydroponic system works. This involves knowing how to correctly select the fertilizers. suitable plants that thrive in this type of cultivation, which maximizes the benefits of using homemade fertilizers.
On the other hand, if you are interested in the possibility of further diversifying your crops, you could explore the aquaponics, which combines hydroponics with fish farming, thus offering a nutrient cycle beneficial to both practices.
Remember that care and attention are essential for success in hydroponics. Always stay informed about the specific care and development stages of your plants to ensure healthy and productive growth.
