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How does pH level affect plant growth?
pH is important because it affects availability and absorption of several of the 16 atomic elements needed for plant growth. Maximum absorption of these elements is found at pH readings...
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How do you change the pH?
pH is adjusted by using an acid to lower it or a base to raise it. General Hydroponics® pH Down and pH Up are designed for this purpose. Many acids...
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How often should I check my pH level?
When first starting out it is a good idea to measure the pH of your water every day, until you get a feel for your system. Measure your water and...
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How much pH Up/Down is needed per gallon?
Start out with one milliliter per gallon. Wait 15 To 30 minutes, and test your water again. Frequently you will only need 1 to 2 ml of pH Up/Down per...
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The pH in my system drops below 4 every few days after cleaning and refilling. How do I increase the pH and stabilize it?
The easiest way is to continue adding pH Up. This is generally fine because the additional elements that are added are potassium ions. Potassium is frequently the highest element in...
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What are Expanded Clay Pebbles?
Expanded clay pebbles are used in hydroponics as a medium to support the plant. They are chemically inert, do not affect pH and provide excellent drainage. They are made from...
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What is Coco Peat?
Coco peat, such as CocoTek Premium Coir, is an organic medium made from coconuts, frequently used in both hydroponics and seed sowing mixes. Its advantages are that it is lightweight,...
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What is rockwool?
Rockwool is a substrate made by melting rock, extruding it in threads and then pressing it into sponge-like blocks....
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What is the difference between expanded clay pebbles and coco peat? What are their applications?
Both expanded clay pebbles and coco peat are pH neutral media. Expanded clay pebbles provide free drainage and aeration, while coco peat provides moisture retention and the ability to hold...
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Do the rooting media (pebbles, rockwool, coco peat, etc.) change the way nutrients are used?
They can. Rinse the growing media (especially important when using rockwool) before using it. We suggest you check the nutrient solution pH and ppm(see above) and adjust the solution accordingly....
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How important is water quality in hydroponics?
Water containing too much calcium and magnesium (called “total Hardness”) may create serious problems. Contact your municipal water supplier who can provide you with an analysis of your water supply....
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Why are there three parts to the General Hydroponics FloraSeries® nutrients?
The concept behind FloraSeries® is simple: Different plants have significantly different nutrient needs, which change during each plant’s growth cycle. By using various combinations of FloraGro®, FloraBloom® and FloraMicro®, the...
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Can you explain the purpose of each component of the FloraSeries®?
In hydroponics, the plant roots are constantly provided with all the water, oxygen, and nutrients they need. The challenge for the grower is to keep up with the plant’s needs...
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What is a general-purpose nutrient recommendation?
The proper ratio of each FloraSeries® nutrient depends on the crop and the stage of growth (look on the label for specific recommendations for different crops). However, as a rule...
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How do I mix FloraSeries®?
Never mix the nutrients together in their concentrated form, as this will cause nutrient “lock-out,” making some minerals unavailable. It is best to begin by adding FloraMicro®, stirring well, and...
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Which comes first when mixing FloraSeries®, Armor Si™ or CALiMAGic™?
When using both Armor Si™ and CALiMAGic™, add Armor Si™ to the reservoir first. When using Armor Si™ and/or CALiMAGic™, with FloraSeries®, these products should be added prior to adding...
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When the reservoir level begins to drop, should I top it off with fresh water or nutrient solution?
If you drain, clean and remix the nutrients every 7 to 10 days, it’s okay to top off with fresh water daily. As plants consume nutrients and water, the nutrient...
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Between cleanings, how often should I check the reservoir level?
Fast growing crops consume large amounts of nutrients and water so it is important to keep an eye on the reservoir every couple of days. Also consider the size of...
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Do I ever need to drain the reservoir and refill with fresh water and nutrient solution?
Yes. The reservoir should be drained and rinsed every 7-14 days, depending upon plant size and nutrient usage. It should definitely be drained and cleaned whenever you change the nutrient...
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Do I use MaxiGrow™ and MaxiBloom™ at the same time?
Yes and no. The Maxi Series is designed to use one part at a time, but in a time of transition it may be beneficial to mix the two at...
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Do I use FloraNova Grow® and FloraNova Bloom® at the same time?
Yes and no. The FloraNova series is designed to use one part at a time, but in a time of transition it may be beneficial to mix the two at...
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Can I foliar feed with GH nutrients?
Of course. Make sure you use a weaker nutrient solution than you would for root feeding. Avoid foliar feeding in the heat of the day and under excessive sunlight. Generally,...
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Can GH nutrients be used in soil?
Absolutely! All of our nutrient blends contain the necessary elements for plant growth. Start with the formula ratios identified on the label for the specific plant or crop you are...
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Is the FloraSeries® organic?
Only crops grown from unrefined minerals are recognized as “organic”. The trouble is unrefined minerals do not dissolve well for hydroponic use and some of these unrefined minerals contain quantities...
