Looking Into Commercial Farming? 5 Must-Have Hydroponic Supplies for a Successful Garden
In the farming world and specifically hydroponics the equipment you choose largely determines the success or failure of your farming business. It's important that you choose the right hydroponics supplies right at the beginning of your business. Here is a breakdown of the most important supplies and why you'll need them.
Grow Lights
This will be the most important decision you make. Proper lighting is an important factor in the success of your hydroponic garden. If you don't intend on using the sun as your source of light, you will need a grow light for the hydroponic system. When making this decision, consider the different types of lights available and pick grow lights that match the type of pants you're growing. Consider the cost, light intensity, spectrum and coverage area.
Choose a Hydroponic System
There are different types of hydroponic systems for your garden. As you make this decision, consider the amount of space you have, the type of plants you're growing, your budget and the amount you want to grow.
Pick a Growing Medium
Your growing medium is the anchor which provides a place for your plants to rest. Some hydroponic systems, such as the aeroponic systems, use water and air as the medium. Therefore, they won't require the purchase of an additional growing media. However, if you have chosen any other system. You'll need to buy a growing medium for your plants to grow in. As you explore the available options, consider the moisture, nutrients and air retention. A medium with poor moisture retention will require frequent watering to ensure enough nutrients reach the root. Consult your retailer about mixing two media and getting the best of both.
pH Test Kit
This will perhaps be the cheapest in your list of hydroponics supplies. However, that is no statement on its value. A good pH balance is one of the key determinants of a healthy hydroponics garden. Considering plants can only absorb nutrients within a specific pH range, you need to check the pH of the nutrient solution on a regular basis. You have different options when choosing a pH meter. You can choose a liquid kit, test strip or an electronic meter.
Quality Hydroponic Fertilizer
The fertilizer you buy at the local grocery store won't work well for you since it makes an assumption that your growing medium is soil. This means that it lacks many essential micronutrients, which your plants require to grow to their potential. You need to find a hydroponic supplies retailer specialising in hydroponics. This will ensure that you get a nutrient solution that delivers all that your garden needs.
The key to a successful hydroponic garden is planning. Make an investment by carefully choosing hydroponic supplies.