A step by step guide to growing lavender hydroponically
We discuss growing lavender in hydroponically by using nutrient solution instead of soil. we cover hydro lavender care, harvesting procedure. Lavender is a native of the Mediterranean region; it generally requires a dry and sunny environment to grow well. Lavender is one of the most admired herbs, its aromatic and herbal properties along with the appearance of its flowers has attracted many growers. A hedge of lavender in full bloom is pleasant to see and you can raise your own lavender hedge amazingly economically if you grow the lavender from the seeds.
Thinking of growing wonderful herbs like lavender rosemary hydroponics, hydroponic thyme, and mint hydroponics. If so, we suggest that you attempt lavender hydroponically grown. This gardening procedure offers greater benefits compared to growing lavender in conventional soil medium. Without soil, roots obtain their nutrient solution right away, water stress is never an issue, and herbs stay small and efficient – so plants are proficient to convert energy into their top growth. It’s simple and, best of all; you will have a fresh, flavourful supply throughout the year.
can lavender be grown hydroponically yes absolutely, we are ready to enrich your garden with wonder herb like lavender moreover growing lavender indoors hydroponically is also possible. Outdoor plants are subjected to many variables, including temperature, insect-pest attack, precipitation, and lighting. Since lavender does well in a mild, consistent and controlled environment, indoor hydroponics is a favored method of growing. Normal indoor room temperatures are ideal and can be regulated so this makes growing lavender indoors easier and less vulnerable to temperature fluctuations often found with outdoor growing environments.
So let’s get started
Requirements to grow hydroponic lavender
- Give the plants 6 hours or more of full sun every day.
- Most people over irrigate the plants that may cause stress.
- Plants require good drainage and Aeration so don’t let nutrients accumulate
- Do not use too much of rock wool that will bring moisture to the plants.
- Prune back the plants in the late fall.
- Dampness the biggest enemy of the growing plant and at all cost dampness should be avoided to get a good harvest.
Hydroponic lavender seed germination
As seed produces variable plants and takes time to propagate, so for growing lavender propagation is commonly done by cuttings of selected healthy plants. It propagates well by using softwood and semi-hardwood cuttings.
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For propagating lavender plants through seed you can buy seeds of selected high yielding varieties from any gardening store. Lavender seeds germinate between 10 to 28 days after sowing. Germination of lavender seed is quite low it might go below 50 percent; for improving germination rates scarification can be done. Seed can be sown indoors six weeks before the last frost date. There are between approximately 850 and 1300 Lavender seeds present per gram, depending on the variety. You can place seeds on the grow media starter cubes and as the seed sprouts and 2-3 true leaves appear your seedling is ready to transplant. Lavender seeds require warm temperatures to germinate preferably between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 Celsius)
Your first year of growth will not be remarkable, but by year two, you can expect to have large, blooming lavender. That’s why it said starting lavender plants from seed is not difficult, but it does have need of time, some patience.
Best hydroponic system for hydroponic lavender
Herbs like lavender can be grown in a variety of hydroponic setups it depends on the scale at which herb is to be grown like for home growers Kratky lavender is suitable because of its small size and ease of usage. Another easy system specially designed for home growers is DWC (deep water culture) which also helps in aeration using an air pump. Systems like NFT and ebb and flow systems are usually used for outdoors and when you are looking for growing many herbs in one system.
The nutrient solution for hydroponic lavenderÂ
Nutrient mix specifically designed for hydroponics are another key component of growing hydroponic lavender. You can fetch ready to use hydroponic nutrient solution for growing lavender in the hydroponic system from any gardening store online or in the market usually, bloom formulation is preferred for lavender. It is suggested to drain, clean and re-add a new nutrient solution to maintain optimal conditions for developing plants.
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Other important Considerations for growing hydroponic lavender include light, temperature, humidity, and pH level. Lavender requires at the very least 6 hours of bright, unobstructed sunlight every day. A south-facing window or balcony may provide adequate lighting for growing lavender. Rotating the system to ensure all sides receive sufficient coverage is suitable. Grow lights are suggested for extra supplementation; especially if your plants are not receiving the minimum natural sunlight to remain healthy this is often encountered in indoor conditions. Standard fluorescent lamps may be sufficient, but their impact is less effective in comparison to modern LED grow lights. High-intensity discharge lights [HID] are also a beneficial especially metal halide, which is superior for growing leafy herbs like lavender.
Indoor temperatures ranging in the 70-75-degree range are ideal, along with a relative humidity level maintained around the 40-60% range. As with all hydroponic gardening, maintaining sufficient ventilation for your developing lavender is important. Oscillating fans, as well as ceiling fans also works well. The pH levels should be consistently tested to maintain a healthy range between 6.4-6.8 with 700-980 PPM.
Harvesting of hydro lavender
The best time to harvest fresh lavender is when the bottom flowers of each stem are just about to open. This is when the lavender is at its most vibrant and fragrant stage. Cut the flowers at the base of the stems, near to the foliage. Then, Prune the plant back to the newly grown leaves. This may encourage your plant to flower a second time, in the fall season.
If all or most of the flowers have opened on the lavender plant, then it is too late to harvest for its use as herbal purposes. If you are planning to dry the lavender for latter use, harvest it when about 3/4 of the blooms have opened.
Another tip for you if you wish to decorate your house with lavender, places the flowers in a vase, but do not put the roots in water. This just causes the flowers to fall off faster and makes the stems soggy.
That’s all folks about growing lavender hydroponically for profit. Keep growing plants hydroponics!.
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