About Nutrient

Plants are what they eat, therefore the nutrient solution you feed them plays a very important role in determining the success of your crop. There are seventeen mineral elements that are essential to plant growth. Years of studying these elements have led researchers to hydroponics by combining these water soluble nutrients in specific amounts to meet various plant's needs.

Hydroponic nutrients available to the home gardener come in many forms. Individually packaged elements allow the grower to custom blend his solution, or follow a specific plant recipe. The Homegrown "six pack" is of this type. Once a recipe has been established, the grower can mix a two-part concentrate such as Hydro-Gro or Hydro-Bloom. Homegrown also stocks a wide range of standard garden fertilizers, as well as vitamins, hormones, and expert nutrient advice.

Nutrient Pumps

Setting up an " active " hydroponics system is the best way to grow high-light, flowering, or fruit producing plants such as vegetables. "Active" means that the plant roots are directly fed nutrient solution, constantly or periodically, throughout daylight cycle. The nutrients are mixed with water in a holding tank or "reservoir" containing a submersible pump. The pump is plugged into a timer and solution is forced through a hose, feeding the system as needed. Gravity returns the solution to the tank and this movement keeps the solution well mixed and aerated.

The high oxygen content of the water prevents the roots from drowning and allows for maximum nutrient intake. Deep water culture systems, in which roots are suspended in highly aerated solution, are also considered "active". Oxygen and water movement are provided with diffuser connected to the air pump. When choosing a pump, consider the size and type of system as well as the distance and height the solution must travel. Pumps are rated G.P.H. or "gallons per hour" at a twelve inch pumping height or "head". The higher the water must travel, the less the pressure will be. Homegrown stocks a large selection of C.S.A. approved submersible pumps and air pumps. Our staff will be happy to help you select the right one for your system.