Hydroponic cultivation and fertigation: why the EC value is so important and how NIDO ONE can help you.

Hydroponic cultivation and fertigation

Hydroponic cultivation is a technique that allows you to grow plants without the use of soil, but using a nutrient solution that contains all the essential elements for plant development.

Fertigation is the process of delivering the nutrient solution to the plants through an irrigation system.

One of the most important parameters to monitor and adjust in hydroponic cultivation and fertigation is the EC value. This value indicates the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution.

EC is the measure of all the ions that conduct electricity in the nutrient solution, and depends on the quantity and type of fertilizers used.

The higher the amount of ions present in the nutrient solution, the more electricity is conducted by that nutrient solution (increase of EC).

The EC value is much important. It tells us the nutrient concentration in the nutrient solution, helping us feed the plants properly.

A low EC value means the solution is too weak. This can lead to fewer nutrients for the plants, causing poor growth and yield.

A high EC value means the solution is too strong. This can overload the plants with nutrients, causing plant burns and other problems.

To prevent these issues, keep an eye on the EC value. Adjust it based on plant needs and environmental conditions.

In general, it is advisable to keep an EC value between 1.0 and 2.5 mS/cm, but it is always good to consult the fertigation tables specific for each crop.

To monitor and adjust the EC value in hydroponic cultivation and fertigation, it is essential to use an EC meter, which allows to detect the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution in a simple and precise way.

In addition, to automate the control and management of the nutrient solution, it is possible to use a hydroponic controller, such as NIDO ONE.