Complete Guide to Plant Nutrients

Master the science of plant nutrition with our comprehensive guide to nutrients, feeding schedules, and deficiency management

Essential Nutrients

Primary Macronutrients (NPK)

  • Nitrogen (N): Essential for leaf and stem growth, chlorophyll production
  • Phosphorus (P): Critical for root development, flowering, and fruiting
  • Potassium (K): Regulates water usage, improves stress tolerance

Secondary Nutrients

  • Calcium (Ca): Strengthens cell walls, supports new growth
  • Magnesium (Mg): Essential for chlorophyll, enzyme activation
  • Sulfur (S): Protein production, enzyme development

Micronutrients

  • Iron (Fe): Chlorophyll synthesis, enzyme function
  • Zinc (Zn): Growth hormone production, protein synthesis
  • Manganese (Mn): Photosynthesis, nitrogen processing
  • Boron (B): Cell wall formation, nutrient transport
  • Copper (Cu): Enzyme activation, chlorophyll formation
  • Molybdenum (Mo): Nitrogen metabolism

Types of Nutrient Solutions

Base Nutrients

  • Complete NPK formulations
  • Growth and bloom specific
  • One-part vs two-part solutions
  • Synthetic vs organic options

Supplements

  • Cal-Mag supplements
  • Bloom boosters
  • Root enhancers
  • Beneficial microbes

Feeding Schedules

Growth Stages

  • Seedling: Light feeding (25% strength) or water only
  • Vegetative: Full strength grow nutrients (NPK ratio favoring N)
  • Early Flower: Transition to bloom nutrients (higher P and K)
  • Late Flower: Reduced nitrogen, increased P and K
  • Flush: Clear water to remove nutrient buildup

Feeding Tips

  • Start with 50% recommended strength
  • Increase gradually based on plant response
  • Monitor EC/PPM and pH levels
  • Adjust based on water quality

pH and EC Management

Optimal Ranges

  • pH Range: 5.5-6.5 for most plants
  • EC Levels:
    • Seedlings: 0.5-0.7
    • Vegetative: 1.0-1.6
    • Flowering: 1.2-2.0
  • Test pH and EC before and after mixing nutrients
  • Adjust pH with proper up/down solutions

Nutrient Deficiency Guide

Common Deficiencies

  • Nitrogen: Yellowing of older leaves
  • Phosphorus: Purple stems, slow growth
  • Potassium: Brown leaf edges
  • Calcium: New growth deformation
  • Magnesium: Interveinal chlorosis

Treatment Steps

  • Identify specific deficiency
  • Check pH levels first
  • Adjust nutrient solution
  • Monitor new growth
  • Prevent future issues

Best Practices

Tips for Success

  • Keep detailed feeding records
  • Clean mixing equipment regularly
  • Store nutrients properly (cool, dark place)
  • Use clean water source (filtered if necessary)
  • Mix nutrients in correct order
  • Never mix concentrated nutrients together
  • Regular maintenance of pH and EC meters

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