How do I create a proper hydroponic nutrient solution?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.To create effective nutrient solutions for hydroponics, there is some art and skill involved. It is essential to start with clean, purified reverse osmosis water that measures between 0 and 50 ppm on your TDS meter. It also helps to have the water temperature between 65°F and 72°F before adding nutrients. Starting with clean water will help prevent any mineral imbalance that can inhibit plant growth.
Water Preparation
- Use reverse osmosis filtered water under 50 ppm
- Test pH and EC before adding any nutrients
- Ensure temperature remains 65-72°F (18-22°C)
- Install circulation pump before mixing begins
Nutrient Mixing Sequence
- Always add calcium nitrate first to prevent precipitation
- Follow with phosphates/sulfates separately
- Dissolve micronutrients in warm water before adding
- Agitate continuously for 15 minutes
Final Adjustments
- Measure EC after full dissolution
- Adjust pH to 5.5-6.5 using phosphoric acid
- Test temperature again before application
- Use solution within 4 hours of preparation
Check your solution constantly after mixing. Test your EC level every other day, and the pH daily. The optimal pH for a plant to absorb nutrients is 5.8. I keep calibration fluids near my meters for weekly calibration tests. The stability of nutrient availability changes rapidly in response to fluctuations in temperature.
Learn from my earlier mistakes. Wrong sequencing previously caused phosphates to cloud my water supply. Whole lots were entirely wasted overnight. Now I never vary my mixing order. Your plants show appreciation through luxuriant growth and heavy yields.
Read the full article: Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions: The Complete Guide
