Nutrients

       Hydroponic growing is plant growth without soil. The mediums used neither chemically nor physically interact with the roots or fertilizers. Consequently, the plants' roots are in direct contact with water and nutritional elements. The pH of the nutrient solution is very important for the plants. This measures the acidic/alkaline balance on a scale of 1 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral. Plant accessibility to minerals is a function of pH; it is maximal between 5.8 and 6.8, that is, in a slightly acidic solution. Nutrient concentration is a determinant factor in plant growth because plants are directly exposed to it.

        pH = availability of minerals to the plant
        ppm/EC = quantity of minerals in the solution (concentration)*

        These two parameters are the first which must be taken into account when considering the nutrient solution. Several types of equipment are available on the market to take these measurements. The HGDi Technologies brand growth and bloom fertilizers have been carefully prepared for our clients by a team of specialized chemists. These fertilizers assure optimal yield with a concentration that varies between 900 and 1200 ppm, depending on environmental factors and your plants' stage of development. Up to now, it has been demonstrated that it is unnecessary to apply a concentration of fertilizer greater than 1200 ppm. It is important not to give more fertilizer than plants can assimilate in the context of their other limiting factors. The temperature of the water is also very important. Plant cells cannot assimilate all the minerals they need if the temperature is too low; the minimal temperature is the normal room temperature (from 15 to 18°C at floor level).

        We sell an extensive line of natural fertilizers: organic, powder, liquid, leaf, granular, for interior or exterior use, for hydroponic or soil use. We maintain a large fertilizer inventory because each has its specialized application. This way, we work with you as you wish.

       Propagation by cuttings and seeds requires particular attention in regards to fertilizers. When it is a question of seeds, it is imperative not to give any fertilizer because the seed already contains everything it needs to sprout. However, as soon as the first true leaves appear, it is necessary to begin a gradual fertilization plan, beginning with weak doses. For cuttings, vitamins, low-concentrated fertilizers and growth hormones are some of the tools we have available to assure near 100% success. It is important to carefully determine that the cutting has no roots in order to furnish all the water and nutrition it requires. To accelerate germination or rooting of cuttings, elevated humidity (80%) is required as well as a room temperature of more than 25°C (78°F ). Following rooting, an elevated supply of phosphorus is recommended to help the young roots develop.

        Fertilizing when growing in soil (PROMIX & SUNSHINE MIX) is practically the same as with hydroponic culture; it is important to supply fertilizers on a regular basis (at a reduced dose in comparison with doses recommended for hydroponics). However, you will find an ecological and efficient alternative to surface-fertilization with mycorhizes. Mycorhizes help the plant to assimilate the soil's mineral elements more easily to fortify its immune system. However, do not use a fertilizer which contains more than 30% phosphorus; our HGDi Technologies A+B formula is completely adequate in this regard.

* The units used to measure the quantity of dissolved minerals vary in relation to the type of measurement instrument. Amounts may be expressed in ppm (parts per million), in EC (Electrical Conductivity) using in this case µS and mS figures (microSiemens and milliSiemens). Our advisors will give you appropriate documentation regarding units of measure and relevant conversion factors when you choose your conductivity measurement instrument.