How do I store hydroponic nutrient solutions?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.To ensure effective storage of hydroponic nutrient solutions and to avoid expensive waste, great care should be taken in their storage. Solutions are degraded by oxidation, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to light, which can result in injury to the delicate mineral balances. Opaque storage containers made of HDPE, stored at 50-68°F (10-20°C), prolong chemical stability, allowing for maximum plant uptake.
Container Specifications
- Use amber or opaque HDPE containers exclusively
- Avoid glass and clear plastics enabling UV damage
- Ensure airtight seals prevent oxygen infiltration
- Select containers with minimal headspace design
Environmental Controls
- Maintain 50-68°F (10-20°C) storage temperature
- Avoid temperature swings exceeding 5°F daily
- Store in dark rooms without windows
- Keep away from heat sources like grow lights
Preservation Techniques
- Fill containers to 95% capacity limiting oxygen
- Add ascorbic acid (0.01%) as antioxidant for chelates
- Use nitrogen gas flushing for commercial volumes
- Never freeze solutions causing permanent separation
Label each container right after it is made: include the date of mixing, expiration date, and formula specifics. I use waterproof labels and industrial markers that resist moisture. Use a first in first out system for all rotation and discard any solutions older than six months without exception.
After losing $300 in nutrients, I learned about storage. The solutions sitting in the garage in extreme summer heat deteriorated, and iron precipitation occurred. The plants got severe chlorosis within days. Now I have a climate-controlled storage closet dedicated to the nutrients.
Review stored solutions every month. Note any color changes, sedimentation, or pH drift. Cloudiness is a sign of microbial contamination, indicating that the solution needs to be discarded. Solutions stored appropriately will provide every milliliter with the fullest nutritional benefit to your plants.
Read the full article: Hydroponic Nutrient Solutions: The Complete Guide
