I use a rotating fan set to turn on with the lights. A simulated breeze like this moves air through the plants and makes the main stem increase its diameter and strength. Characteristic “5 finger” leaves are out and branches are growing from the axils. Four more pots have been added for a total of 12. I noticed these plants are a little bit behind in growth which makes for a nice comparison between plants grown in soil and those grown in coco medium. All the plants originally seeded in soil but the last four stayed in soil 5 days longer. Anecdotal observations suggest that hydro plants are 40% more advance in growth than those in soil.
Pictured are the roots emerging from the started growth plug where the seedling was planted. Seeds are germinated by soaking in water for 36 hours. By then a small root will emerge and the seed is placed in a pre-drilled hole.
Three metal halide lights are running on 18/6 cycles. I offset the increase in electricity bill by not running the central heat. A space heater is sufficient even when temperatures approach freezing. When temperatures are below 50 degrees at night I run space heater in the grow room also.
The potted plants are now in a 12 light/12 darkness under a HPS light. I don't believe the problem with leaf curl is nutrient related rather it may be a disease or nematode. Looks bad and I don’t know what affect it’ll have on bud production or quality. Yet another reason to go to hydroponics.
The reservoir was changed out today with the tank, bubblers/tube and pump set out in the sun for 2 hours for UV disinfecting. In addition to new water I added 80 milliliters of a solution - "pH Down" to lower the pH to 6.0 – 6.5. The instructions do not specify an amount, only that you should keep pouring solution until the water’s pH is lowered to a desired amount. I preferred to try this on a single gallon of distilled water and extrapolate from there.
The reservoir was changed out today with the tank, bubblers/tube and pump set out in the sun for 2 hours for UV disinfecting. In addition to new water I added 80 milliliters of a solution - "pH Down" to lower the pH to 6.0 – 6.5. The instructions do not specify an amount, only that you should keep pouring solution until the water’s pH is lowered to a desired amount. I preferred to try this on a single gallon of distilled water and extrapolate from there.
I have too many plants for the space and lights at hand. Not a problem now but may be in 3 - 4 weeks.
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