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Common Nutrient Related Disorders In Hydroponic Tomatoes and Ways to Prevent Them.

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Common Nutrient Related Disorders In Hydroponic Tomatoes and Ways to Prevent Them.

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Hydroponic tomatoes are a popular crop with unique nutrient requirements. Optimal growth is achieved through appropriate nutrient management and control of the environment. In this blog, we look at common nutrient related disorders found in hydroponic tomatoes, why they happen and what you can do to prevent them. At the end, you’ll find a list of water-soluble fertilizer options from Plant-Prod.

What Are Common Nutrient Related Disorders in Hydroponic Tomatoes

Blossom End Rot

Characterized by the first appearance of light tan, water-soak lesions on the blossom end of fruit. These lesions enlarge, turning black and leathery. The cause is generally attributed to a lack of calcium in the developing fruit. This disorder can still occur when calcium is supplied at adequate levels. Cold temperatures or excessive heat during blossom set, fluctuation in water supply, and excessive ammoniacal nitrogen, potassium or magnesium fertilization can result in calcium unavailable to the plant, increasing the risk of blossom end rot developing. 

Blossom Drop

Yield can be greatly reduced when blossoms abort and drop off the plant instead of setting fruit. A number of nutritional stressors can cause this, including too much nitrogen which can lead to excessive vegetative growth, salt stress caused by high fertigation EC, and infrequent irrigation leading to drought stress.  

Yellowing or Chlorosis of Leaves

 A number of diseases and disorders can first manifest as chlorosis. It is important to notice and take action early to prevent further damage to the plant. Nutritional deficiencies that can cause chlorosis include:

Low nitrogen – appears a general yellowing of entire plant, including old and new growth
Low potassium – appears as bright yellow leaf margins and edges, mostly on old growth leaves
Low magnesium – appears as interveinal yellowing on old growth leaves.

How to Prevent Nutrient Related Disorders and Deficiencies

It is important to understand that specific nutrient requirements for greenhouse tomatoes are related to the developmental stage of the plant and seasonal conditions. It is recommended to breakdown a tomato fertilizer program into three stages:

  • Transplant to 4-6 leaves
  • Normal feed
  • Heavy fruiting

Following these nutritional needs along with the below suggestions will help to prevent nutrient related disorders and deficiencies: 

  1. K:N Ratio Based on growth stage – the ratio between these two macronutrients will steer the plant from vegetative to reproductive growth. As nutritional demands increase with plant age, potassium should be increased. 
  2. Irrigate appropriately – water volume should also be adjusted with plant age, nutrient demand, and environmental conditions to meet the plant’s needs. 
  3. Foliar nutrient testing – a tissue analysis is always recommended to confirm all suspected nutritional problems before taking action.

Fertilizers to Treat Nutrient Deficiencies in Hydroponic Tomatoes

Plantex 4-18-37 Tomato Hydroponic No Dye Water Soluble Fertilizer

Plantex Hydroponic Tomato 4-18-37 water-soluble fertilizer is specially formulated with elevated levels of phosphorus and potassium, making it ideal for promoting tomato fruit production. To ensure a well-rounded nutritional regimen, it should be used alongside a source of calcium and magnesium.

Plant-Prod 6-11-31 Hydroponic Water Soluble Fertilizer

Plant-Prod 6-11-31 is specifically designed for fertilizing vegetables grown in greenhouses using the nutrient film technique (NFT) or any other hydroponic cultivation medium like stone wool. When used as part of a comprehensive fertilization program, it is typically paired with calcium nitrate.

4-18-37 Water Soluble Fertilizer
water-soluble-fertilizer-6-11-31

References and Resources: 

What’s The Best Fertilizer For Orchids?  

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What’s The Best Fertilizer For Orchids? 

Orchids are unique plants that have specific nutritional needs. So, it’s essential to find the appropriate fertilizer to promote optimal plant growth. Below, we discuss the unique fertilizer needs of orchids and some of the best orchid fertilizer options.

Orchids Are Unique and Require Specific Fertilizer

Tropical orchids, being epiphytic, thrive by growing on the surfaces of other plants in their native environments. In the greenhouse, they are particularly sensitive to light, temperature, and fertilization. Orchid production requires a high attention to environmental conditions, with 3 distinct phases – Vegetative, Cooling/Spike Induction and Finishing. Fertilization throughout these phases should adjust with the plant’s growth, making nutrient runoff monitoring very important.

4 Orchid Fertilizer Tips

Since orchids are vulnerable to salt build-up, using a pure fertilizer, low in Cl is very important.

As we’ve stated before in our Orchid Production Program, to prevent salt buildup, water your plants until approximately 20% of the applied water drains from the bottom of the pots. The suggested electrical conductivity (EC) level for the water used on plants is 0.5 mmhos, while the EC level of the drained water (leachate) should ideally fall within the range of 1-1.5 mmhos. If the leachate exceeds 2 mmhos, it’s advisable to flush the plants with clear water.

For fertilization, apply fertilizer with every watering at a rate of 200 ppm N, ensuring sufficient levels of calcium and magnesium. It is recommended to continue fertilization as new spikes emerge.

Get more orchid fertilization tips.

What Is The Best Fertilizer For Orchids?

We recommend the following fertilizers for orchids:

Plant-Prod 12-2-14 Optimum Water Soluble Fertilizer

This fertilizer contains 6% calcium and 3% magnesium, as well as a complete micronutrient package.

Plant-Prod® 24-8-16 Foliage Water Soluble Fertilizer

This fertilizer contains forms of nitrogen most readily absorbed and used by plants for vegetative growth. It also contains a full micronutrient package.Alternating between Plant-Prod® 12-2-14 Optimum and Plant-Prod 24-8-16 Foliage will ensure high flower count and maximum flower size.

Plant-Prod is a manufacturer of water-soluble fertilizers and water-soluble cannabis fertilizers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, we formulate with everything from chelated iron to calcium nitrate and zinc fertilizer in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs.

Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.

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How To Identify A Nutrient Deficiency In Hydroponic Basil

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How To Identify A Nutrient Deficiency In Hydroponic Basil

Fertilizer designed specifically for use on hydroponic crops plays a vital role in mitigating hydroponic nutrient deficiency. This is certainly the case when it comes to basil (Ocimum basilicum). Did you know it’s the most-grown greenhouse herb crop?

If you are growing basil, it’s essential for you to understand how to identify nutrient deficiencies. Research from Cornell University* provides a thorough outline of how to identify deficiencies in hydroponic basil. Below, We’ll touch upon basil’s sensitivity to magnesium and outline how to identify general hydroponic nutrient deficiencies found in basil.

About Hydroponic Basil Nutrient Deficiencies

Basil is sensitive to magnesium deficiency more than other types of nutrient deficiencies. In hydroponic production, Magnesium (Mg) stands as one of the vital elements included in a comprehensive nutrient solution. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that the supply of Mg might not always meet the plant’s demand. This is especially evident in basil, where it appears to necessitate a higher concentration of Mg compared to leafy greens. Make sure to use a water-soluble fertilizer that has enough magnesium for basil plants.

How To Identify A Nutrient Deficiency In Hydroponic Basil

While visual diagnosis is important, it is crucial to understand that many nutrient deficiencies can have similar appearances. Therefore, conducting laboratory leaf tissue analysis becomes necessary to precisely identify these symptoms. Additionally, it’s essential to acknowledge that the timeline for symptom development may vary depending on the current environmental conditions.

Here are the general hydroponic nutrients and signs of nutrient deficiency in basil plants:

  • Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen deficiency can cause uniform chlorosis (yellowing) of older leaves, along with reduced plant size overall. 
  • Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus deficiency appears as small purple spots on older leaves. These purple areas usually become larger.
  • Potassium (K): You will see necrotic spots between the veins of the oldest leaves on the plant. They become more visible over time.
  • Calcium (Ca): The symptoms of calcium deficiency are necrotic spots near the base of young leaves, along with downward cupping of the leaves.
  • Magnesium (Mg): Magnesium deficiency first appears as faint yellowing of mature leaves, progressing to interveinal necrosis. This can then be seen on younger leaves.
  • Sulphur (S): Plants show uniform yellowing across the leaf blade on all leaves. The plant size tends to be much smaller.
  • Iron (Fe): You will see interveinal yellowing of the upper leaves while the lower leaves stay green.
  • Boron (B): Boron deficiency shows faint necrotic regions between the veins on the base of young leaves and develops yellowing over time. Plants also tend to have a smaller root system. 
magnesium-defeciency-in-hrdroponic-basil
© Neil Mattson, PhD, Cornell University. (Advanced stages of magnesium deficiency of basil)

Take A Proactive Approach When Applying Nutrients Solutions for Hydroponic Basil

Taking a more proactive approach to caring for your hydroponic basil plants is always best. To prevent economic losses caused by nutritional disorders, it is advisable to frequently monitor growing media and nutrient runoff. If needed, adjustments can be made to the water-soluble fertilizer regime to ensure a sufficient and appropriate supply of nutrients. This proactive approach will help optimize plant health and productivity, minimizing the risk of nutrient-related problems that could lead to financial losses. Be sure to check out our hydroponic nutrients, designed specifically for herbs and leafy greens:

Mattson, N. and T. Merrill. 2016. Symptoms of common nutrient deficiencies in hydroponic basil. e-Gro Research Update #2016.04. 10 pp.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures water-soluble fertilizers for fruit trees, plants and flowers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.

How to identify cannabis nutrient deficiencies at an early stage

How to identify cannabis nutrient deficiencies at an early stage

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How to identify cannabis nutrient deficiencies at an early stage

Cannabis nutrient deficiencies are something that many growers encounter. The ability to identify nutrient deficiencies at an early stage is important to be able to take corrective measures quickly. Deficiencies present themselves in different ways depending on the nutrient that is deficient. It’s important to identify them correctly and ensure that your plants get the proper level of nutrients to stay healthy. It’s even more important to know how to prevent them.

Below, we’ll discuss how to identify early signs of cannabis nutrient deficiencies during the Vegetative Stage. We then outline the best fertilizers to use early in your production program.

3 Common Vegetative Stage Nutrient Deficiencies in Cannabis

A common mistake growers make is not adjusting the type and level of cannabis water-soluble fertilizer they give to plants as they grow. Cannabis plants require different levels of nutrients depending on their growth cycle stage. Failure to adjust nutrient ratios and rates could have negative impacts on your plants. During the early stages of growth, it’s particularly important to ensure you are providing the appropriate nutrients to set your crop up for success during the flowering phase.

1. Early Nitrogen Deficiencies in Cannabis Plants

Nitrogen deficiency is commonly observed during the vegetative phase, usually due to feeding insufficient levels. The main indicator of nitrogen deficiency is a progressive yellowing of leaves, beginning at the lower parts of the plant and gradually spreading upwards towards the top.

2. Early Magnesium Deficiencies in Cannabis Plants

While magnesium deficiencies primarily manifest during the flowering phase, they can also occur in the vegetative phase when nutrient ratios are imbalanced. The symptoms of magnesium deficiency are evident on the leaves as interveinal yellowing, as opposed to the overall yellowing observed in nitrogen deficiencies. Small, rusty brown spots and/or cloudy yellow flecks appear in the middle-aged leaves.

3. Early Calcium Deficiencies in Cannabis Plants

Calcium is another nutrient that is commonly deficient during the flowering phase but can start during the vegetative phase. Much like magnesium, the common cause is due to a nutrient imbalance within your fertilizer blend or program. Symptoms begin in older leaves as spots with sharp outlines that appear at the edge of the leaf.

early-signs-of-nutrient-defeciency-in-cannabis-plant.jpg

Some deficiencies in cannabis plants are more common during the vegetative phase compared to the flowering phase. So, it’s important to look for the above deficiencies in your vegetative plants, including mother stock.

If you believe you are experiencing a cannabis nutrient deficiency, it is best to send samples of foliar tissue demonstrating symptoms for testing. A foliar nutrient analysis will be able to confirm your suspicions and ensure that you are taking the right corrective action.

Preventing Early-Stage Cannabis Nutrient Deficiencies

Plant-Prod offers a variety of water-soluble cannabis fertilizers. The key is to know which ones to use during the early growth stages. We recommend the following to avoid nutrient deficiencies:

1. Plant-Prod MJ™ Boost Water-Soluble Cannabis Fertilizer

Use this during week one and week four of the growth schedule. Plant-Prod MJTM Boost 15-30-15 is a specialized water-soluble cannabis fertilizer designed for cannabis transplants and promoting bud growth. This formulation is rich in phosphorus, providing the necessary nutrients for healthy transplants and robust bud development.  It is highly soluble, ensuring efficient absorption by the plants. Importantly, it has a low salt index and does not contain sulphates or harmful chlorides, making it safe for young transplants.

2. Plant-Prod MJ™ Grow Water Soluble Cannabis Fertilizer

Use this during weeks two and three of the growth schedule. Plant-Prod MJTM Grow 12-8-26 is a water-soluble cannabis fertilizer specially designed for the vegetative growth phase of cannabis plants. It provides a well-balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which is essential for promoting optimal growth and establishing a strong plant structure capable of supporting desired yields. The inclusion of magnesium helps prevent any signs of cannabis deficiency. 

3. Plant-Prod MJTM Cal Kick Water Soluble Cannabis Fertilizer

Use this beginning in week three and continue into the flowering phase. Plant-Prod MJTM Cal Kick 15-0-14 is a high calcium formulation that should be used as the main source of calcium when levels in the water source are not adequate. Calcium is vital to plant rigidity and bud formation. This formulation contains a full micronutrient package with added EDDHA iron to avoid signs of deficiency when used in rotation. 

It is important to note that even when using the appropriate water-soluble cannabis fertilizer blend at the right rate, cannabis nutrient deficiencies can occur due to inappropriate media pH levels. This is known as “lock-out” and should be addressed in a different manner. Frequent media and nutrient run-off monitoring are an important part of any cannabis production program.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures cannabis water-soluble fertilizers for cannabis. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod cannabis fertilizer supplier near you.

How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

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How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

Fertilizing seedlings appropriately is the key to growing healthy plants. When plants are young, it’s essential to give them the right fertilizer, in the right amount and at the right time. In this blog, we discuss the seedling fertilizer process.

How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

It’s important not to fertilize seedlings too early. To ensure healthy growth, begin fertilizing your seedlings with a mild dose of fertilizer designed for young plants once they develop their first true leaves. The initial emergence of leaves, called ‘Cotyledons,’ contains the necessary nutrients for early development, which are provided by the seed embryo. Following this, a set of true leaves will emerge.
Once your seedlings have developed at least one set of true leaves, it is a sign they are ready for a higher level of nutrients. Take a moment to check your seedlings and confirm the presence of these true leaves. If they have emerged, you can proceed with increasing fertilization.

  • There are also some signs when you should adjust your growing conditions:
    If seedlings are droopy, they likely require water.
  • If the seedlings are tall and stretching, they need a stronger light source.
  • If the seedlings have dry or brown leaf tips, they may have been burned by light or early fertilizer application.
  • If the seedlings are falling on the soil, they may have been overwatered and could be experiencing mould issues.

How Do You Fertilize New Seedlings?

How you fertilize seedlings is a little different than how you would fertilize a mature plant. Here are the general steps to fertilize new seedings:

  1. Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer designed for seedlings. Look for a complete and balanced formulation with calcium and magnesium, high NO3 vs. NH4 content, and low P.
  2. Dissolve the water-soluble fertilizer following the packaging instructions. Start with a low concentration, around 25-50 ppm N, at the sign of cotyledons and gradually increase up to 100-125 ppm N as plants mature.
  3. Gently water the seedlings, avoiding spraying the foliage.
  4. Monitor their response and adjust fertilizer concentration or frequency if needed.

How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

How Often Should You Fertilize During the Seedling Stage?

Every situation is different. The condition of your seedlings is the first consideration before fertilizing. So, make sure you monitor your plants regularly.

During the seedling stage, it is generally recommended to fertilize your plants once every two weeks. This provides a consistent supply of nutrients to support the seedlings’ early growth and development.

However, it is important to follow the specific instructions provided by the water-soluble fertilizer manufacturer and adjust the fertilization schedule based on the plant’s specific needs and the type of fertilizer being used. Monitoring the condition of the seedlings and how they react to the fertilizer can help determine if adjustments in fertilization frequency or dosage are needed, along with other growing conditions.

What Is the Best Fertilizer During the Seedling Stage?

Choosing the best water-soluble fertilizer for seedlings is the key to successful growth. At Plant-Prod, we offer a number of fertilizers that are ideal for seedlings:

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures cannabis water-soluble fertilizers for cannabis. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod cannabis fertilizer supplier near you.

Compliance with Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizer

Compliance with Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizer

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Compliance with Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizer

 We know how difficult it is to get and keep your cannabis growers license. So why risk it with fertilizers that have noncompliance and no clear labels?

In this blog, we talk about how Plant-Prod MJ™ cannabis fertilizers are unique in the market. They are specially formulated for large-scale licensed producers of cannabis. Their guaranteed nutrients are highly pure, completely soluble and clearly listed on each label. There are no secret additives or “teas” that are common in liquid fertilizers.

3 Reasons why large-scale licensed producers choose Plant-Prod MJ ™ cannabis fertilizer

1. Compliance: Know the composition precisely

With Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizers, the accurate levels of macronutrients, micronutrients and chelating agents are declared on every label.

Each of the label components complies with all pertinent regulations. No cheaper ingredients or high concentrations of impurities, just pure nutrients made with the highest technical-grade materials in the world.

2. Labelling

Plant-Prod MJ cannabis fertilizers are labelled with complete and accurate information, ensuring their compliance with regional regulations. This includes composition, as well as batch number, safety markings, and use information. You can be sure of what you’re working with, and that the documentation for your record-keeping is complete.

3. Avoid contaminants & heavy metals

Plant-Prod MJ cannabis fertilizers are completely water-soluble and will not clog fertigation lines and nozzles.

Plant-Prod MJ cannabis fertilizers are made from the best raw materials available in the world, constantly tested for purity, then milled and blended, unlike many fertilizers. Levels of heavy metals are known and consistently updated. Nutrients get to your plants, not the bottom of the tank. Read our blog on “how to tell if you have contaminants in your cannabis product”.

Compliance with Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizer

3 ways Plant-Prod MJ™ cannabis fertilizer helps plant productivity

1. Consistent formulations that minimize risk & labor costs

Plant-Prod cannabis fertilizers are homogenous blends and consistent from batch to batch. They are easy for operators to use, reducing the chance of error, which can be catastrophic. Plant-Prod MJ cannabis fertilizers are available in tubs, bags and totes.

 2. Produce bud with favourable characteristics

Use Plant-Prod MJ and the appropriate growing medium with your chosen strain to control cannabinoid profiles and produce buds with favourable taste and burn characteristics.

3. Purity & consistency mean lower costs

Plant-Prod MJ cannabis fertilizers are made from the best raw materials available in the world, constantly tested for purity, then milled and blended, unlike many fertilizers. This results in a pure, concentrated product with no filler. You get 100% of what you pay for, with no fillers left in the bottom of your tanks or clogging your irrigation lines, saving you the time and money to clean them out.

Instead of yellow leaves and small growth, you get bigger, denser buds and faster growth on a more consistent basis.

Why is Plant-Prod MJ water-soluble cannabis fertilizer the top choice for the growers

There are many brands of liquid fertilizers sold to small-scale growers. Most have low levels of nutrients and cost upwards of 50 times the equivalent for Plant-Prod MJ They are not suitable for large operations selling in increasingly competitive markets. Plant-Prod MJ is supported by a well-established distribution network with teams of qualified technical support with many years of experience in the horticultural industry.

The Plant-Prod MJ™ Production Program has been developed based on over 77 years of disciplined horticultural practice in helping growers increase yields and lower costs. Formulations have been refined to meet the specific requirements of licensed producers to facilitate the production of large buds with desirable cannabinoid and taste profiles, in a 14-week cycle.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures cannabis water-soluble fertilizers for cannabis. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod cannabis fertilizer supplier near you.

Recycled-Water-Irrigation-System

What is the impact of using a reclaimed water irrigation system on fertilizer?

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What is the impact of using a reclaimed water irrigation system on fertilizer?

The key to growing healthy plants is finding the right balance of environmental conditions and inputs, especially for water-soluble fertilizers. The appropriate fertilizer and an adequate water supply are vital to a successful crop. This is true whether you are growing roses, tomatoes, cannabis, or any other plant. .

The management of irrigation water is a top concern of ornamental growers who are affected by freshwater depletion as well as the introduction of agricultural water regulations. This has caused many to transition to capturing and recirculating the run-off nutrient solution within the same production system, or a closed-loop system.
As a water-soluble fertilizer provider, one of the top questions we get about switching to a reclaimed water irrigation system is what is the potential impact on my water-soluble fertilizer use? We’ll explore this topic below.

Why capture runoff in a recycled water irrigation system?

Many are making the shift to reclaimed water for a variety of reasons and outcomes. Ultimately, it’s a method of reducing the use of natural water supplies. Some reasons for converting to a recycled water source include:

  • Pollution prevention
  • Reduced water costs
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Stormwater control

Recycling irrigation water can lead to a modest decrease in fertilizer costs as nutrients are recycled. It also results in flexibility in managing different forms of fertilizers and scheduling pesticide applications.

Recycled-Water-Irrigation-System

The impact of reclaimed water on fertilizer

Reusing reclaimed water for irrigation can introduce complications due to its nutrient and plant pathogen contents compared to a fresh irrigation water source. This can affect how much fertilizer is needed between each cycle.

Recirculated nutrient solutions will carry the remaining nutrients leached from the substrate, along with plant pathogen and residual agrochemicals. Nutrients can accumulate in imbalanced levels, affecting ion availability. Certain plant pathogen spores can easily spread from plant to plant and across production zones. Depending on the application, varying levels of agrochemicals can leach into the collected runoff. Each factor must be considered when converting to a reclaimed irrigation system.

The most effective way to manage nutrient levels is to reduce the amount of solution that needs to be collected treated and reused. This means increasing the accuracy of your feeding to ensure that there is as minimal runoff as possible, while not affecting yields. Ideally, this means a reduction in fertilizer use and waste.
The use of varying degrees of filtration will help to address the remaining concerns of reclaimed water use.

Effective fertilizer management with a reclaimed water source

To ensure appropriate fertilizer use, constant solution monitoring is required in a reclaimed water irrigation system. The amount of nutrients remaining in the captured runoff may vary depending on the growth stage, weather conditions, external crop stressors, etc.

Unfavourable characteristics of the initial water source will also be magnified. Each will impact how much fertilizer should be applied at each cycle.
Growers should have their captured runoff tested for nutrient content, pH, salinity, bicarbonates, and EC.

The potential benefits of reclaimed water use outweigh the challenges. In addition to conserving fresh water, it can change how you use fertilizer. If done right, you could spend less on fertilizer.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures water-soluble fertilizers for fruit trees, plants and flowers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.

nitrogen nutrient deficiency in hydroponic lettuce

Symptoms of Common Nutrient Deficiencies in
Hydroponic Lettuce & How to Fix Nutrient Deficiencies

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Symptoms of Common Nutrient Deficiencies in
Hydroponic Lettuce & How to Fix Nutrient Deficiencies

Lettuce is one of the most produced hydroponic leafy greens in the world. But much like other greenhouse crops, it can be a challenge to keep the plants healthy and thriving throughout their growth cycle. It’s not as simple as adding vegetable fertilizer for plants or choosing a specific water-soluble vegetable fertilizer for lettuce and expecting great results. You need to follow a specific regiment and make adjustments over time.

Below, we’ll discuss the common symptoms of nutrient deficiencies in hydroponic lettuce. Then we’ll talk about how to fix them, offering some tips to prevent deficiencies in lettuce from happening.

Symptoms of common nutrient deficiencies in lettuce

Like all plants, you can overdo fertilizer for lettuce. You can also fail to give your plants enough nutrients to thrive. It’s one of the most common reasons for nutrient deficiencies in lettuce.

Lettuce is one of the most commonly grown hydroponic vegetables. Researchers at Cornell University undertook a study to identify the common nutrient deficiencies in hydroponic lettuce. This is great information to reference as you tend to your crop of lettuce plants.

Here are the common symptoms of deficiency based on the nutrient type:

  • Nitrogen (N): You’ll see lighter green colour that turns to uniform chlorosis (yellowing) of older leaves.
  • Phosphorus (P): Plants will likely be stunted, with reduced growth.
  • Potassium (K): Presence of small necrotic spots on the margins of old leaves
  • Calcium (CA): Scattered necrotic spots on young leaves and marginal necrosis and distortion of the youngest leaves
  • Magnesium (Mg): Mature leaves will exhibit light interveinal chlorosis and marginal necrosis becomes visible later.
  • Sulphur (S): Uniform chlorosis across the entire leaf blade.
  • Iron (Fe): Interveinal chlorosis of new growth.
  • Boron (B): Distorted new growth with slight marginal necrosis and leaves cupping upward.

Overall, in their research, they found noticeable deficiency symptoms of the mobile nutrients N, P, K, and Mg on mature leaves. They also identified that deficiency of immobile nutrients Ca, Fe, and B affected new growth and S deficiency led to uniform chlorosis along leaves.

Other things to note are:

  • The timeline for the development of symptoms may vary.
  • Many nutrient disorders are similar in appearance.  
  • Lab analysis of leaves is necessary to verify symptoms.
  • Nutrient deficiencies may be due to environmental causes rather than to lack of nutrients in the vegetable fertilizer solution.

nitrogen nutrient deficiency in hydroponic lettuce

Lettuce With Tipburn. Photo: Tanya Merrill and Neil Mattson, Cornell University

How to fix a nutrient deficiency in your lettuce plant

Improper use of vegetable fertilizer for hydroponic lettuce is one of the most common reasons for nutrient deficiencies. How you fix a deficiency will depend on the type of nutrient deficiency. Here are some standard steps to follow to fix nutrient issues in your lettuce plant:

  • Identify the lettuce plant nutrient deficiency by identifying the symptom and confirming with foliar tests
  •  Adjust the media pH and electrical conductivity (EC)  levels to ensure ideal nutrient availability and uptake
  • Add the missing nutrient by applying the right fertilizer solution. You might also be able to add a nutrient supplement.
  • Adjust the irrigation schedule (if applicable)
  • Check the lighting to ensure there is adequate light for the lettuce plant
  • Continue to monitor the plant for ongoing or additional deficiencies.

Tips to prevent nutrient deficiencies in lettuce

Lettuce growers should always follow growing best practices when it comes to fertilization. Periodically send samples of their nutrient solution, runoff solution, and media to a laboratory to ensure that the nutrient supply is meeting the needs of the plants. Additionally, it is recommended to monitor the plants for any visible signs of nutrient deficiencies as another means of detecting any issues.

Here are some additional tips to follow:

  • Use a high-quality growing medium.
  •  Ensure that the pH and electrical conductivity (EC) of the nutrient solution are within the recommended range.
  •  Use water-soluble vegetable fertilizers that are specifically formulated for lettuce at the correct amount
  •  Apply vegetable fertilizer according to the recommended schedule.
  •  Avoid overwatering or underwatering the lettuce
  •  Provide adequate lighting for the lettuce to promote photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.
  •  Keep the growing environment clean and free from pests and diseases

Want to cut your fertilizer costs and increase grower profitability?

Learn how high-quality fertilizers can help you cut fertilizer costs, and labour costs and increase your growing productivity here.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures water-soluble fertilizers for fruit trees, plants and flowers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.

How do I calculate fertilizer rates? Part-2

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How do I calculate fertilizer rates? Part-2

Fertilizer Rates & Concentration Values

Last post, we outlined the connection between electrical conductivity and the fertilizer concentration in your nutrient solution. Here, we outline the missing link – the relation between parts per million of Nitrogen (ppm N) and actual feeding rates (g/L, oz/gal).

In the horticultural industry, fertilization rates are often given in parts per million (ppm) of nitrogen (N). Parts per million is a convenient unit of measurement for indicating the concentration of fertilizer solutions. This is because nitrogen is the most commonly found nutrient in fertilizer formulations and because it allows us to state the concentration of a fertilizer solution independent of the fertilizer analysis. It is important to distinguish ppm N from total ppm, since total ppm typically refers to total dissolved solids, including those that are not coming from the fertilizer. When we refer to ppm N, we refer to nutrient concentration from the fertilizer only.

Calculating Rates Based on ppm N

When preparing a fertilizer stock solution, it is important to know the injector ratio of your system. This refers to the amount of stock solution that is delivered for each increment of irrigation water that passes through the injector. For instance, a 1:100 injector ratio will deliver a final 100 gallons of dilute fertilizer solution for each 1 gallon of concentrated stock solution.

Other important factors include:

  • The desired ppm you wish to feed of a specific element guaranteed in the fertilizer
  • % of the element guaranteed in fertilizer
  • Conversion constant determined by the units desired for your rate (see table below)

Example 1

You want to feed Plant-Prod MJTM Bloom 10-30-20 Water Soluble Fertilizer at 150 ppm N, and your injector is set to 1:200. Your tank is 500 L and you want to know how many grams of fertilizer to add to your stock tank.
Let’s list all the factors you know:

  • Desired ppm N = 150
  • Injector ratio = 200
  • % of the element guaranteed in fertilizer = 10
  • Conversion constant for g/L (see table above) = 10

Now let’s put all that into the equation:

Now you know that you need to add 150 kg of Plant-Prod MJTM Bloom Water Soluble Fertilizer to your 500 L stock tank to have a final fertilizer solution of 150 ppm N. Note that the ppm N in your stock tank will be 200 x this concentration since you have an injector system set to 1:200.

Example 2

Copy: What if you have a rate in oz/gal that you’ve been using and want to compare it to a recommendation that is in ppm N? All you have to do is rearrange the equation.
Say you’ve been diluting 14 oz/gal of Plant-Prod 20-10-20 high Nitrate Water Soluble Fertilizer and using an injector set to 1:100.
Again, let’s list all the factors you know:

  • Rate in ounces per US gallon = 14
  • Injector ratio = 100
  • % of the element guaranteed in fertilizer = 20
  • Conversion constant for oz/gal (see table above) = 75

Now let’s put all that into the equation:

Now you know that you are feeding 210 ppm N when mixing a stock solution of Plant-Prod 20-10-20 high nitrate water-soluble fertilizer at a rate of 14 oz/gal and using an injector ratio of 1:100.

Want to cut your fertilizer costs and increase grower profitability?

Learn how high-quality fertilizers can help you cut fertilizer costs, and labour costs and increase your growing productivity here.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures water-soluble fertilizers for fruit trees, plants and flowers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.

How do I calculate fertilizer rates? Part-1

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How do I calculate fertilizer rates? Part-1

Did you know just as with pH, each type of plant has a preferred Electrical conductivity (EC) range within which it can thrive? In general, though, if your EC is very low, your plant probably doesn’t have enough food. On the other hand, if your EC is very high, you run the risk of burning your roots or creating toxic buildups. 

All plants need the right amount of food (nutrients) in order to grow. Electrical conductivity (EC) is an essential measurement that indicates the total amount of nutrients available to your plants.

When nutrients dissolve in water, they split into ions. For example, potassium nitrate dissolves into a potassium ion and a nitrate ion. Each ion carries an electrical charge, which creates the potential for electricity to move through a solution. The more ions present, the better the water can conduct electricity.

Plants only absorb nutrients when they are available in an ionic form. That’s why EC is a good indication of the overall strength of your nutrient solution.  

Electrical Conductivity & Fertilizer Concentration

Regular monitoring of the electrical conductivity (EC) of your nutrient solution is a vital part of any fertigation program. Electrical conductivity is the ability of a solution to conduct an electrical current. Most elements (plant essential or other) that are soluble in water will contribute to the conductivity of water or a nutrient solution. As a result, the EC of a nutrient solution will increase as the water-soluble fertilizer concentration in the solution is increased. By knowing the EC of a water-soluble fertilizer solution, you can predict the parts per million (ppm) of nutrients your plants are receiving, or that remain in your runoff water.

Each water-soluble fertilizer blend has a unique EC profile based on its concentration in solution due to the composition of the product. The following chart can be used to relate the EC of your Plant-Prod MJ TM nutrient feed with the associated parts per million (ppm) of Nitrogen:

Plant Prod water soluble fertilizer electrical conductivity chart

Measuring EC

Most meters used by our growers are calibrated in mmhos per cm or mS per cm, which are interchangeable units. The data given here on our water-soluble fertilizers use the same measurement. The above table can be used to measure the accuracy of water-soluble fertilizer injector systems by following these steps:

measure the accuracy of water-soluble fertilizer injector systems by following these steps:

Example:

  • Conductivity of clear irrigation water is 0.60 mmhos / mS
  • Conductivity of the final fertilizer solution using 10-30-20 is 2.05 mmhos / mS
  • The conductivity due to the fertilizer is 2.05 mmhos / mS – 0.60 mmhos /mS = 1.45 mmhos / mS
  • For 10-30-20, a conductivity reading of 1.45 mmhos / mS corresponds to a feeding rate of roughly 150 ppm of Nitrogen (N)

Stay tuned for our next post where we will cover the link between parts per million (ppm) of Nitrogen and mixing rates.

Want to cut your fertilizer costs and increase grower profitability?

Learn how high-quality fertilizers can help you cut fertilizer costs, and labour costs and increase your growing productivity here.

For more fertilizer productivity tips, check out these blog posts:

Plant-Prod manufactures water-soluble fertilizers for fruit trees, plants and flowers. The choice of growers from California to Maine for over 70 years, Plant-Prod fertilizers are made from the finest raw ingredients in the world, tested constantly for purity and turbo-milled to ensure 100% solubility in order to help you improve yields while cutting fertilizer costs. Click here to find a Plant-Prod fertilizer supplier near you.