Cabbage is one of the common vegetables on our dining tables, and its crispy and delicious characteristics are deeply loved by people. Nowadays, with the continuous development of hydroponic technology, more and more people are starting to try growing cabbage hydroponically at home. However, what issues need to be paid attention to in the maintenance of hydroponic cabbage? Next, I will introduce it to you in detail.
Selecting good cabbage seeds
Before starting hydroponic cabbage, you first need to select good cabbage seeds. Choose seeds that are complete in appearance, uniform in size, good in color, and free from pests and diseases, so that the subsequent maintenance can be smoother.
Prepare the nutrient solution
Unlike soil-grown cabbage, hydroponic cabbage cannot absorb nutrients from the soil, so a nutrient solution is required. Generally, the nutrient solution can be mixed by yourself or purchased professionally. Note that the nutrient solution needs to be changed frequently to avoid excessive accumulation of nutrient salts.
Choose the right container
Hydroponic cabbage needs a container to store the nutrient solution and grow the cabbage. It is recommended to choose a transparent container so that the root system of the plant can be observed and problems can be found in time. At the same time, the size of the container should also be chosen according to the number of plants to avoid crowding or waste.
Control the water temperature
Water temperature is one of the important factors affecting the growth of hydroponic cabbage. Generally, the suitable water temperature is between 15°C and 25°C. Water temperatures that are too high or too low will have an adverse effect on plant growth.
Maintain sufficient light
Cabbage is a plant with strong photosynthesis, so it needs sufficient light to ensure normal growth. It is recommended to place the container in a sunny place, ensuring at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Note the appropriate humidity
Hydroponic cabbage needs suitable humidity to maintain plant growth. Generally, the humidity should be controlled between 50% and 70%, as too high or too low humidity will affect growth. You can use a sprayer to regularly spray to maintain humidity.
Change water regularly
In order to keep the nutrient solution for hydroponic cabbage clean and prevent excessive accumulation of nutrient salts, it is recommended to change the nutrient solution once a week. At the same time, you can also clean the container and the roots of the plant.
Fertilize appropriately
Hydroponic cabbage needs nutrient solution to grow, but fertilization should also be appropriate to avoid burdening the plant. Generally, fertilizing the plant once a week is sufficient. You can choose organic or inorganic fertilizers, or a professional hydroponic nutrient solution.
Prune in time
If you find that the leaves or branches of the plant are not growing well, or if there are pests and diseases, timely pruning is required. Keeping the plant clean and tidy can improve its resistance to pests and diseases.
Pay attention to temperature changes
Hydroponic cabbage is sensitive to temperature changes, so sudden temperature fluctuations should be avoided. You can choose to grow hydroponically indoors to maintain a stable temperature.
Prevent pests and diseases
Hydroponic cabbage can also be threatened by pests and diseases. It is recommended to choose cabbage varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, and to clean up garbage and fallen leaves around the plants in a timely manner. If pests and diseases are found, biological or chemical control methods can be used to deal with them.
Repot in time
If the plants in the container are too crowded, it is necessary to repot them in time. When repotting, pay attention to keep the plant's root system intact to avoid damage.
Strengthen management
Hydroponic cabbage requires strengthened management, regular observation and inspection of the plants, and timely handling of problems. At the same time, it is also necessary to clean the container and replace the nutrient solution regularly.
Note the growth cycle
The growth cycle of cabbage is generally about 60 to 70 days. Judge when to harvest the cabbage according to the plant's growth situation and the use of the nutrient solution.
There are many other issues to pay attention to when growing hydroponic cabbage, but as long as you follow the above points for maintenance, I believe everyone can successfully grow healthy and delicious cabbage at home.