Points to Consider When Using Water for Hydroponic Succulents
Hydroponic succulents are widely popular due to their clean and eco-friendly nature, but water quality management and water changing timing directly affect root health. This article analyzes the essentials of hydroponic water through four core dimensions to help you create an ecological oasis in a transparent glass bottle.
Three Essential Elements of Water Quality for Hydroponic Succulents
Criteria for Water Source Selection
Natural sources such as rainwater or river water need to be tested for pH levels, ensuring they remain in the slightly acidic range of 5.8-6.5. Tap water should be left to stand for 48 hours to effectively volatilize chlorine, and warm water at 25°C is recommended in winter to prevent root frostbite.
Water Quality Testing Methods
Observe the transparency of the water, and immediate action is required when there is any flocculation or discoloration. Use a TDS pen to measure, and if the value exceeds 150ppm, the water needs to be changed.
Water Changing Cycle for Hydroponic Succulents
Seasonal Transition Rules
Change the water every 7-10 days in spring and autumn, reduce it to 3-5 days during the high-temperature summer season, and extend it to 15 days in winter. When the water temperature exceeds 28°C, it is recommended to change the water in the early morning or evening to avoid too large a temperature difference.
Judging Root Growth
New white root hairs are a sign of health. When the roots stop growing or show brown lesions, immediately cut off the decayed parts and change to fresh water.
Scientific Five-Step Water Changing Process
Preprocessing Operations
1. Remove the plant and rinse the roots with running water. 2. Disinfect the scissors and trim the dead roots. 3. Clean the inside walls of the container with a cotton swab.
Water Filling Techniques
Keep the water level so that 2/3 of the roots are submerged, leaving space for the aerial roots to breathe. After adding new water, shake the container left and right 3-5 times to increase the dissolved oxygen in the water.
Advanced Care Tips
Nutrient Solution Ratio
Add a specialized hydroponic nutrient solution when changing the water, diluted at a ratio of 1:500. Reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer during the high-temperature summer season to prevent algae growth.
Light Coordination
Avoid direct sunlight for 3 days after changing the water, and gradually increase the exposure time to scattered light after the roots adapt to the new water quality.
By regularly monitoring, scientifically changing the water, and adjusting the environment, hydroponic succulents can maintain a crystal-clear ornamental state. Remember that each water change is a restart of the root system, and standardized operations can keep the plant continuously vibrant.