Plant food stands as a fundamental requirement for successful growth in hydroponics. Devoid of it, growth becomes an impossibility, and errors in this aspect possess the potential to result in, at the very least, feelings of disappointment. Today, my focus will be directed towards the plant food crafted by Aerogarden.
Aerogarden Sprout plant food.
What is in Aerogarden liquid plant food?
| Ingredients | % |
|---|---|
| Total Nitrogen (N) | 4.0% |
| P2O5 | 3.0% |
| K2O | 6.0% |
| Calcium (Ca) | 1.0% |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.5% |
Aerogarden’s liquid plant food comprises a blend of diverse chemical elements that are crucial for the growth of plants. These elements are carefully transformed into various compounds to ensure optimal dissolution in water.
At the core of this plant food are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Each of these elements plays a distinct role in promoting the development of specific parts of the plant. Phosphorus and potassium are bonded with oxygen, allowing them to be directly accessible to the roots. Similarly, nitrogen is present in a water-soluble form, facilitating easy absorption by the roots.
Additionally, magnesium and calcium are integral components of the plant food. These elements also hold significant importance in hydroponic cultivation and are indispensable for optimal growth.
How it works?
Once liquid plant food enters the plant, different parts of the plant utilize each element for various purposes.
- Nitrogen plays a crucial role in creating green leaves and stems. The higher the nitrogen content, the greener and more vibrant the leaves become. It also facilitates the production of proteins.
- Phosphorus contributes to the development of the root system. Having an adequate supply of phosphorus is essential for maintaining healthy roots.
- Potassium ensures the transportation of water from the roots to the leaves. Additionally, it aids in the movement of nutrients within the plant.
- Calcium serves to reinforce the plant’s structure. It helps leaves and stems remain sturdy and resistant to breaking.
- Magnesium is an essential element for photosynthesis. Without it, the plant cannot harness light energy or undergo proper growth.
How to use?
Use with your Aerogarden
| 2 & 3-pod models | 4 ml (1 capful) at startup and every 2 weeks |
| 6 & 7-pod models | 8 ml (2 capfuls) at startup and every 2 weeks |
| 9-pod models | 12 ml (3 capful) at startup and every 2 weeks |
| 12 & 3-pod models | 24 ml (6 capful) at startup and every 2 weeks |
Aerogarden suggests adding plant food right from the beginning. Nevertheless, I choose to add it once I notice the seedlings have started to grow, which helps me save some money.
The quantity of plant food required is visible in the table provided. To incorporate the plant food, all you need to do is pour it into the reservoir using the bottle cap.
However, I opt to use a syringe for this task. Initially, I measure the correct amount of plant food and then fill the remaining space in the syringe with water from the reservoir. Subsequently, I inject this mixture into the reservoir. This method ensures that the plant food mixes thoroughly with the water.
I repeat this process every two weeks when adding a fresh batch of plant food. The same routine is followed after each instance of changing the water in the system.
Use with other plants
| Houseplants | 2 ml (1/2 capful) per gallon for weekly watering |
| Outdoor gardens | 4 ml (1 capful) per gallon for each watering |
Too much or not enough plant food
Using Aerogarden plant food correctly is crucial, as not following the recommended dosage can lead to unfavorable outcomes.
If you go beyond the recommended quantity by a significant margin, the nutrient solution might become overly potent. This could harm the roots, typically resulting in browning of the leaves. Should this occur, it’s essential to promptly replace the water with fresh water.
Conversely, if you don’t apply the suggested amount of nutrients, the plant’s growth is likely to be stunted. Additionally, the leaves might develop chlorosis, causing them to turn yellow.
What can I use instead of AeroGarden plant food?
Numerous hydroponic plant food manufacturers are available in the market as alternatives to Aerogarden’s product. It’s crucial that the chosen plant food is specifically designed for hydroponics, not soil. This can come in either dry or liquid form.
In my case, I prefer using General Hydroponics’ plant food for my Aerogarden. They offer an excellent product known as the Flora Series, which comprises three bottles containing nutrient solutions.
The process is simple: I just need to add the appropriate amount of plant food from each bottle, and I’m good to go. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that nourishing hydroponic plants turns out to be even more cost-effective than using Aerogarden’s plant food.
Can you use any liquid plant food in AeroGarden?
It’s important to note that you cannot utilize just any liquid plant food in your Aerogarden. Many of these products are formulated to nourish plants that are grown in soil, and they aren’t appropriate for hydroponic systems.
In your Aerogarden, only hydroponic liquid plant food should be used. Prior to making a purchase, ensure that the manufacturer clearly states on the label that the product is specifically intended for hydroponic use.
People also ask
How long do AeroGarden nutrients last?
Aerogarden plant food retains its effectiveness for over six months, maintaining its properties during this period. The duration it remains viable is influenced by the storage conditions of the product. The manufacturer advises keeping the plant food in a cool location, away from direct sunlight.
When considering its lifespan within a nutrient solution, the effectiveness lasts for two weeks. As part of your routine, it’s necessary to introduce plant food into the reservoir every 14 days.
Is Aerogarden Plant Food Toxic?
Aerogarden plant food is entirely non-toxic. It encompasses the same components present in any standard fertilizer, albeit in a slightly adjusted composition.
Plants thrive effectively when nourished by this plant food. If it were toxic, their growth would be compromised. Additionally, products with toxic properties are highly unlikely to be marketed and sold.
Nonetheless, the lack of toxins doesn’t imply that this plant food can be utilized improperly. Its sole purpose is for cultivating plants, and it should only be used in that context.