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A Step by Step Guide to Growing Hydroponic Tomatoes

Written by Naomi Meza

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Posted on May 27 2022

Tomatoes grow faster in hydroponics than they do in soil. Hydroponics gardening is simple to master and has less manual work than traditional farming. There are different techniques used in hydroponics.

For instance, in the Kratky method, crops get suspended over nutrient-rich water. Similarly, the ebb and flow draining system simplifies the process of adding and removing the nutrient-rich solution.

 

Related Post: What is the Best Fertilizer for Tomatoes?

 

Before delving into the processes in this form of agriculture, it is crucial to understand the subject matter.

What is Hydroponics?

Green lettuce plants growing in a hydroponic system inside a greenhouse

Hydroponics is a type of horticulture that entails growing crops without using soil. The plants grow in a nutrient-rich solution and use materials like vermiculite, perlite, peat moss, or coconut fiber for root support.

Graphic listing the benefits of hydroponics gardening

 

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    How to Grow Tomatoes Hydroponically

    You can grow tomatoes anywhere with hydroponics. The Kratky method is the easiest to set up because it does not require a pump system.

    You can grow tomatoes anywhere with hydroponics. The Kratky method is the easiest to set up because it does not require a pump system. You can grow your tomato seedlings from scratch or buy a tomato plant ready for transplant. Before the transplant,

    1. Set up the the reservoir with nutrient-rich solution, aerated pots to hold the plant, and growing substrate. Ensure the system is sturdy to handle all its contents.

    2. Transplant each germinated seedling into a net or fabric pot. The aerated pots increase the oxygen supply for the roots and keep them from rotting.

    3. Use a growing substrate that has neutral pH, like biodegradable coconut fibers. You can also use inert clay pebbles, porous spun basalt rock fibers called stonewool, or lightweight volcanic perlite.

    4. Pour the nutrient-rich solution into the reservoir. Ensure that the container/reservoir is opaque to keep sunlight away from the solution and has a lid to prevent unwanted particles from getting into the solution. The container must be big enough to contain the crop and high enough to keep the nutrient solution from spiling.

    5. The Kratky method does well with Greenway Biotech Inc's water soluble tomato 4-18-38 fertilizer - an excellent source of nutrients for tomato plants. It has Masterblend fertilizer, potassium nitrate, and chelated micronutrients like zinc, copper and manganese in a 4-18-38.

       

      Our fertilizer contains essential chelated micronutrients that help increase nutrient absorption by the tomato plant.

       

      We also carry fertilizer bundles for tomatoes formulated for hydroponic crops.

      This bundle of concentrated hydroponics fertilizers includes the best hydroponic fertilizers for both beginners and advanced hydroponics growers from growth to blooming stages.

      It enhances crop health and yield, eliminates need for pesticides and allows you to adjust key nutrients like calcium and magnesium for your hydroponic crops.

       

      Additionally, you can use Cal-Mag Plus Micronutrients. It has calcium and magnesium that nourishes tomato plants and prevents blossom end rot.

      6. Fill the container with the nutrient-rich solution and place the potted plant in the big container.

      7. Tomato plants use up a lot of water to produce juicy fruits. Therefore, have a schedule for regular refilling water refilling.

      8. You should also ensure the plant gets at least 8 to 10 hours of sunlight. If you are using a controlled environment such as a greenhouse, the plant should expose the plant to light for the same duration.

       

      Related Post: What is the Best Calcium Fertilizer?

       

      9. Additionally, the plant should have a specific pH range and water temperature.

      10. The hydroponics system also requires excellent ventilation to prevent mold growth and root rot. Therefore, ensure the area has ample airflow.

      11. Wait for the plant to grow and harvest.

       

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      Shop With Us

      Our water-soluble Tomato 4-18-38 fertilizer and Cal-Mag Plus Micronutrients are the perfect pair for your hydroponic tomato crop. They work well with the Kratky method and in any hydroponic system due to their high water solubility. 

      You can also opt for our specialty fertilizer + cal mag bundles which allows you to customize your nutrients according to the type of plants you're growing. 

      Our specialty bundles work well for peppers, cucumbers, leafy greens, tomatoes, herbs and more, whether you grow hydroponically or in soil. 

      To browse our full collection of hydroponic friendly fertilizers, click here. 

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