How to grow your own hydroponic cannabis?

If you are interested in the world of cannabis cultivation, surely at some point you have heard about the hydroponic system, this is a method that consists of growing marijuana in a water and nutrient solution.

Hydroponics is an alternative that you can do with your own hands, if you want to know how you can do it in an indoor environment, keep reading this post.

You may think that doing this method is very expensive, but not necessarily, the cost of a hydroponic system is going to depend on how much money you are willing to spend. You can opt for an inexpensive hydroponic starter kit, these include all the materials you will need from planting to harvesting.

Choose a growing medium to start with

When you start growing, it is ideal that you choose a growing medium, that is, a substance that supports the attachment point between the stems and the roots. Hydroponic growers use different media, here are the most common ones:

1- Clay pebbles

Ideal for aerating the root system, sometimes clay pebbles will require a change in pH in order to provide a more optimal growing environment. They should also be placed in a plastic hydroponic basket with holes for the roots to grow.

2-Rockwool

It is a substance created from volcanic rocks and with a wool texture. This material has an enormous water retention capacity, thus providing good hydration to the upper part of the root system.

3-Perlite

This is a volcanic glass that expands when exposed to high temperatures. It is usually used to aerate the garden soil, therefore, it will offer you great benefits.

Choosing a hydroponic growing system for your plants

Most hydroponic cannabis growing systems are similar in that they use a nutrient-enriched aqueous solution, but they can vary in different aspects such as water exposure or circulation. Some of these are:

1-Wick system

This is a basic hydroponic method that uses a grow tray filled with clay pebbles and does not require a pump. Underneath the tray is a water reservoir from which several wicks come out to the growing medium. The water travels through the wicks and passively hydrates the medium.

2- Nutrient film technique

This technique consists of placing the plants in an inclined tube, in this way, the water that enters on one side, will leave on the other side, simply by gravity. With this method the roots will develop inside the tube, where they are exposed to the water flow. This liquid will come out of a reservoir, with a pump and air stone, and returns to it once the cycle is completed.

3-Deep water culture

This is an economical system and ideal for beginners. Plants are placed in buckets filled with a nutrient solution, and an air pump provides a constant supply of oxygen.

Prepare your system to ensure the success of your growing.

Ideally, before using the system of your choice, sterilize all equipment to avoid contamination. When you are finished, follow the instructions to set it up correctly.

In addition, all hydroponic systems will need maintenance, here are some factors that you should take into account:

1- pH control

It is ideal to check the pH of the water constantly to ensure a good growing environment. To make nutrients more available to the plants, a slightly more acidic medium is recommended, a pH of 5.5-5.8.

2-Water temperature

It is recommended to maintain a temperature of 20°C. Use a water thermometer, and if the temperature is too low, modify it with a water heater.

3- Sufficient quantity of fertilizers

As is the case with plants grown in soil, hydroponic plants need the same nutrients. It is ideal to buy a hydroponic nutrient solution that contains all the substances necessary for the vegetative and flowering phases to feed your plants properly.