Complete marijuana hydroponic culture guide

The hydroponic marijuana culture is an advanced technique that dispenses with the soil and uses nutrient rich solutions to directly feed the roots of the plants. This method allows faster growth and greater control over the supply of essential nutrients, optimizing the cultivation conditions to obtain High quality crops. Although it requires specific knowledge and equipment, hydroponic is ideal for those who seek exceptional results and are willing to invest in modern technology and techniques. From Grow Industry, online product for crop products, we tell you everything you should know about it.

What is hydropony in marijuana?

Hydropony is one of the marijuana cultivation techniques, This dispenses with the use of soil, nourishing plants directly through mineral -rich solutions. This methodology has gained special relevance in the field of cannabis, where precision and control over nutrients are crucial to obtain high quality crops.

The history of hydroponics dates back to ancient civilizations, but its application in marijuana is a more modern phenomenon. With the progress of legalization and research, hydroponics has evolved quickly, adapting to the specific needs of cannabis cultivation.

Today, hydropony has been established as an cornerstone in the cannabis industry, allowing cultivators to maximize production in small spaces and with greater environmental control. This method not only optimizes the use of resources such as water and nutrients, but can also contribute to greater power and purity of the final product, highly valued aspects in the medical and recreational cannabis market.

Fundamentals of Hydropony

Hydropony is a culture technique that dispenses with the soil and uses nutrient -rich solutions to feed the plants. In this system, the roots of marijuana plants are submerged directly into a nutritious solution or exposed to it through techniques such as nebulization. This allows efficient and direct absorption of essential nutrients, which can result in faster growth and more abundant yields compared to traditional cultivation on land.

In a hydroponic system, plants are sustained in an inert medium, such as perlite, rock wool or expanded clay, which provides physical support. The roots immerse themselves in the nutrient solution or expose themselves to it at regular intervals. The frequency and exposure method vary according to the type of hydroponic system used.

Advantages of hydroponic culture

The advantages of hydroponic crop are numerous and have contributed to their growing popularity between commercial farmers and garden enthusiasts at home. Here we detail some of the most significant:

• Greater efficiency in growth: Plants in hydroponic systems usually grow faster and produce more than plants grown on soil. This is because the roots have direct access to the necessary nutrients and do not have to extend to look for them, allowing the plant to focus more energy in air growth.
• Optimized water use: Hydroponic crop uses less water than traditional agriculture. In closed systems, water is recycled and reused, which significantly reduces waste.
• Control on cultivation conditions: Cultivators can control and adjust the growth environment, including light, temperature, humidity, nutrient solution and pH. This control can improve the quality and consistency of production.
• Crops throughout the year: Hydropony allows the cultivation of plants regardless of the stations, which means that crops can occur throughout the year in almost any location.
• Reduction of pesticides use: By not using soil, the presence of weeds and many common diseases and pests is reduced, which can reduce the need for pesticides.
• Space savings: Hydroponic systems require less space than traditional culture on ground because roots do not need to expand to access nutrients.
• Production in areas with poor soils: Hydropony is ideal for areas where the soil is inhospitable for traditional agriculture, allowing food production in places previously considered not suitable for agriculture being able to use Hydroponic substrate To cultivate.
• Greater culture density: Hydroponic systems allow greater plants density per unit surface, increasing total performance compared to traditional methods.

Disadvantages of hydroponic culture

Despite its numerous advantages, the hydroponic culture also presents certain disadvantages that must be considered before implementation. Next, some of the limitations and challenges associated with this cultivation technique are detailed:

• High initial cost: The establishment of a hydroponic system may require a significant initial investment in equipment, such as tanks, pumps, nutritional solutions and climate control systems.
• Need for specialized knowledge: To operate a hydroponic system effectively, technical knowledge is required about the nutrition of plants, water chemistry and systems management. This can represent a barrier to beginners.
• Energy dependence: Hydroponic systems depend largely on electricity to keep the pumps, lights and other equipment working, which can be problematic in areas with unstable electrical supply or during power cuts.
• Risk of system failures: If a system failure occurs, such as a pump that stops working or an energy cut, plants can suffer quickly due to lack of nutrients and water.
• Disease problems: Although the risk of diseases transmitted by the soil is reduced, diseases that spread through water can be a problem, and if they appear, they can quickly spread to all system plants.
• Continuous maintenance: Hydroponic systems require constant monitoring and maintenance to ensure that nutrient levels and water pH are adequate for optimal plant growth.
• Environmental impact of nutritional solutions: Nutritional solutions should be carefully handled to avoid environmental pollution. In addition, the production and disposition of these solutions can have an environmental impact.

What are active and liabilities hydroponic systems?

Hydroponic systems are divided into two main categories: Assets and liabilities, each with specific characteristics and advantages. Passive systems are simpler and more economical, using the capillarity or gravity to transport the nutrient solution to the roots. On the other hand, active systems use pumps and other mechanical equipment to guarantee a constant and uniform distribution of nutrients.

In a passive system, plants depend on the natural absorption of the solution through materials such as wicks or sponges, which makes it ideal for beginners or who seek a low maintenance configuration. However, these systems can be less efficient in large crops, since they do not always meet the needs of more demanding plants.

On the contrary, active systems stand out for their precision and efficiency, since water and air pumps guarantee that the roots receive an oxygenation and constant nutrient supply. These systems are ideal for advanced cultivators who want to maximize performance, although they require a higher initial investment and more detailed maintenance.

The choice between active and liabilities will depend on the level of experience of the cultivator, the available space and the production objectives. Both approaches have the potential to produce Vigorous plants and abundant crops if used correctly.

Passive hydroponic systems to cultivate marijuana

Passive hydroponic systems are a simple and accessible option for those who want to start in hydroponic culture. These systems use Lights, drip trays or static deposits To transport nutrients to plants' roots, eliminating the need for pumps or mechanical systems. This makes them an economic and easy maintenance solution.

One of the main advantages of passive systems is its Configuration simplicity. The necessary materials are usually economical and easy to find, which allows cultivators to build effective systems without large investments. However, it is important to monitor the level of nutritious solution, since plants depend on the substrate capacity to retain water and nutrients.

Despite their ease of use, passive systems may have limitations in terms of efficiency and scalability. They are ideal for small crops or plants with moderate requirements, but they may not be enough for more ambitious crops that demand a constant and abundant supply of nutrients.

Active hydroponic systems to grow marijuana

Active hydroponic systems are the preferred option for growers looking greater control and productivity In your crops. They use pumps to recirculate the nutritious solution and ensure that the roots receive oxygenation and nutrients continuously, maximizing the growth and health of plants.

Among the most popular active systems are NFT (Nutrient Film Technique), which uses a fine lamina of nutritious solution that flows on the roots, and the Flow and reflux system, that floods and drains the substrate periodically. Both allow a Optimal use of nutrients, reducing waste and enhancing the development of plants.

Although these systems require a greater initial investment and technical knowledge, the results often justify the effort. Plants cultivated in active systems tend to grow faster and produce more abundant crops, due to controlled environment and optimized resources. However, it is crucial to perform regular maintenance to avoid problems such as failures in pumps or accumulations of salts in the roots.

Differences between hydroponics and land cultivation

Hydropony and cultivation on land are two fundamental methods for plant growth, including marijuana. Each has its peculiarities and benefits, and the choice between one and the other can depend on several factors, such as the environment, the available resources and the personal preferences of the cultivator. Next, the key differences between these two cultivation methods are presented.

• Growth means
• Hydroponics: Does not use soil. Plants are held in inert media such as perlite, vermiculite, rock wool or expanded clay balls.
• Cultivation on land: Use soil as the main medium for the growth of plants, which provides support and nutrients.
  
  
• Plant nutrition
• Hydroponics: Nutrients are supplied directly to plants' roots through an aqueous solution. This allows more precise control of nutrients and pH.
• Cultivation on land: Nutrients are on the floor and plants absorb them as water dissolves them. Nutrient control is less precise and depends on soil quality.
  
  
• Water use
• Hydroponics: It is more efficient in the use of water, since closed systems recirculate the nutrient solution.
• Cultivation on land: It may require more water, since part of it is lost by evaporation or drainage.
  
  
• Growth speed
• Hydroponics: Generally, plants grow faster because they have direct access to soluble nutrients.
• Cultivation on land: Growth can be slower, since plants need to expand their roots to look for nutrients and water.
  
  
• Cost and maintenance
• Hydroponics: It requires a higher initial investment and constant maintenance of nutritional systems and solutions.
• Cultivation on land: Less expensive to start and may require less technical maintenance, but the soil may need improvements or treatments.
  
  
• Sustainability and accessibility
• Hydroponics: It can be more sustainable in the long term due to the efficient use of water and the possibility of growing in areas without fertile soil.
• Cultivation on land: It is more accessible to beginners and can be more sustainable in terms of requiring less technological supplies.
  
  
• Environmental impact
• Hydroponics: Less environmental impact due to the reduction of the use of pesticides and herbicides and the possibility of installing interior systems, reducing the need for agricultural land.

Cultivation on land: It can have a greater environmental impact due to the use of agricultural chemicals and the need for large areas of land.

Differences between hydroponics and land cultivation

Hydropony and cultivation on land are two fundamental methods for plant growth, including marijuana. Each has its peculiarities and benefits, and the choice between one and the other can depend on several factors, such as the environment, the available resources and the personal preferences of the cultivator. Next, the key differences between these two cultivation methods are presented.

• Growth means
  • Hydroponics: Does not use soil. Plants are held in inert media such as perlite, vermiculite, rock wool or expanded clay balls.
  • Cultivation on land: Use soil as the main medium for the growth of plants, which provides support and nutrients.
    
    
• Plant nutrition
  • Hydroponics: Nutrients are supplied directly to plants' roots through an aqueous solution. This allows more precise control of nutrients and pH.
  • Cultivation on land: Nutrients are on the floor and plants absorb them as water dissolves them. Nutrient control is less precise and depends on soil quality.
    
    
• Water use
  • Hydroponics: It is more efficient in the use of water, since closed systems recirculate the nutrient solution.
  • Cultivation on land: It may require more water, since part of it is lost by evaporation or drainage.
    
    
• Growth speed
  • Hydroponics: Generally, plants grow faster because they have direct access to soluble nutrients.
  • Cultivation on land: Growth can be slower, since plants need to expand their roots to look for nutrients and water.
    
    
• Cost and maintenance
  • Hydroponics: It requires a higher initial investment and constant maintenance of nutritional systems and solutions.
  • Cultivation on land: Less expensive to start and may require less technical maintenance, but the soil may need improvements or treatments.
    
    
• Sustainability and accessibility
  • Hydroponics: It can be more sustainable in the long term due to the efficient use of water and the possibility of growing in areas without fertile soil.
  • Cultivation on land: It is more accessible to beginners and can be more sustainable in terms of requiring less technological supplies.
    
    
• Environmental impact
  • Hydroponics: Less environmental impact due to the reduction of the use of pesticides and herbicides and the possibility of installing interior systems, reducing the need for agricultural land.
  • Cultivation on land: It can have a greater environmental impact due to the use of agricultural chemicals and the need for large areas of land.

Types of hydroponic systems for marijuana

The hydroponic marijuana culture offers a variety of systems, each with its own characteristics and advantages. Next, the most common types of hydroponic systems used for marijuana cultivation are described:

• MEHA system: It is one of the simplest systems, where a wick connects the culture medium with the nutritious solution, transporting nutrients by capillarity to plants.
• Floating root system: The roots of the plants are submerged directly in the nutrient solution, with a floating platform that supports the plants and allows the roots to hang in the solution.
• NFT system (film nutrient technique): A constant flow of nutritional solution circulates through channels where plants' roots are exposed, allowing excellent oxygenation and access to nutrients.
• AIRCLICAL SYSTEMS: The roots of the plants hang in the air and sprinkle with a nebulized nutritional solution, which provides maximum oxygenation and rapid growth.
• Drip systems: A drip emitters system supplies the nutrient solution directly to the base of each plant, allowing efficient use of water and nutrients.
• EBB and Flow systems (flow and reflux): The nutritional solution periodically floods the culture medium and then drains, allowing the roots to breathe between each flood.
• Hybrid system: Combine characteristics of two or more hydroponic systems to take advantage of the benefits of each.
• Mapito system: Use a culture medium composed of rock wool and expanded clay balls, offering good water and aeration retention.

Each system has its own specifications and can be more appropriate for certain types of cultivation growers or environments. The choice of the hydroponic system ideal for marijuana cultivation will depend on factors such as the available space, the initial investment, the experience of the cultivator and the production objectives.

Legal considerations in Spain

When we talk about hydroponics and marijuana cultivation in Spain, it is essential to take into account the current legal framework. In Spain, cannabis cultivation legislation is complex and subject to diverse interpretations, but there are certain aspects that are clear and should be considered by any person interested in this type of crop.

Organic Law 4/2015, of March 30, on the Protection of Citizen Security, is one of the main regulations that affect this matter. According to this law, marijuana cultivation can be sanctioned when done in places visible to the public and is considered to promote or facilitate illegal consumption. This means that private cultivation for your own consumption may not be sanctioned as long as it is not visible to the public and there are no indications of traffic or sale.

It is important to highlight that consumption in public places and the possession of marijuana are serious infractions, subject to economic sanctions. In addition, Spanish criminal legislation punishes acts of culture, elaboration or trafficking of drugs, including marijuana, with sentences that may include prison.

For those who consider the hydroponic culture of marijuana, it is crucial to consult the Organic Law 4/2015, as well as any other applicable legislation and recent updates, to ensure to understand all legal implications and act accordingly.

In addition, it is strongly recommended to seek professional legal advice to obtain a precise interpretation of the law and how it applies to the particular case of each cultivator, especially in a scope as regulated and monitored as the Cannabis cultivation.

This section should not be taken as legal advice, but as a general guide. The laws can change and have complex interpretations that depend on many factors, including the specific context and the individual circumstances of each case.

Challenges and technical considerations

The hydroponic culture of marijuana, although it offers numerous advantages, also presents challenges and technical considerations that must be carefully managed to ensure healthy growth and optimal production. Next, some of the most important aspects are detailed:

PH management and electrical conductivity (EC)

Proper hand management and electrical conductivity (EC) is vital for the success of any hydroponic culture system, especially when it comes to marijuana, a plant that requires specific conditions for its optimal development.

pH in the hydroponic culture of marijuana

• Importance: The pH of the nutritious solution affects the capacity of marijuana plants to absorb nutrients. An inappropriate pH can block the availability of essential nutrients and negatively affect plant growth.
• Optimal range: For marijuana, the ideal pH range in hydroponics is between 5.5 and 6.5. It is crucial to stay inside this range to ensure adequate nutrition.
• PH setting: PH regulatory solutions can be used to increase or decrease the level as necessary. It is advisable to make gradual adjustments to avoid stress in plants.

Electrical conductivity (EC) and nutrients

• Relevance: EC measures the total number of soluble salts in the solution, which is an indirect indicator of the concentration of nutrients available for plants.
• Adequate levels: The ideal EC varies according to the plant's growth stage. Young seedlings require a lower EC, while plants in growth and flowering stages can handle higher levels.
• Monitoring and adjustment: It is important to monitor EC regularly and adjust the concentration of nutrients to avoid supercharging or nutritional deficiency. This is done by diluting the nutritious solution or adding more nutrients as necessary.

Tools and equipment

• PH meter and EC Meter: For precise handling, digital pH and EC meters that provide exact readings and allow timely adjustments must be used.
• Regular calibration: Meters must be regularly calibrated with standard solutions to ensure their precision over time.

Final considerations

• Registration and monitoring: Keeping a detailed record of PH and EC levels can help identify patterns and make predictive adjustments in the management of the nutrient solution.
• Plants response: Observing the response of the plants to the adjustments made is essential. Signs such as discoloration of leaves or slow growth can indicate problems with pH or EC that need to be corrected.

The careful management of pH and EC is a technical aspect that requires constant attention, but it is essential to maximize the health of plants and the yield of hydroponic marijuana culture.

Temperature and humidity control

Temperature and humidity control is crucial in the hydroponic marijuana culture, since these conditions can significantly influence the health and productivity of plants.

Marijuana hydroponic culture temperature

• Importance: The temperature affects the fee of photosynthesis, breathing and perspiration of marijuana plants. An inadequate temperature can stress plants and lead to suboptimal growth or diseases.
• Optimal range: The ideal temperature for hydroponic marijuana culture is generally between 20 ° C and 25 ° C during the day and should not lower much below 18 ° C during the night.
• Temperature control: They can be used Hydroponic heating systems and heat or cooling systems, such as heater, air conditioning or fans, to maintain the temperature within the desired range. 

Moisture in the hydroponic culture of marijuana

• Relevance: Relative humidity (HR) influences the perspiration and absorption of water and nutrients. A very low HR can cause dehydration stress, while a very high HR can encourage the development of fungi and diseases.
• Adequate levels: The optimal relative humidity for marijuana in the vegetative phase is between 40% and 70%, and during the flowering phase, it is recommended to reduce it to 40% - 50% to reduce the risk of fungal problems.
• Monitoring and adjustment: Higromers should be used to monitor HR and dehumidifiers or humidifiers to adjust it as necessary.

Tools and equipment

• Thermostats and hygrometers: For precise control, it is essential to have digital thermostats and hygrometers that allow monitoring and adjusting the temperature and moisture of the culture environment.
• Ventilation systems: A good ventilation system helps maintain temperature and humidity at adequate levels and prevent the accumulation of stagnant air that can favor diseases. Check our category of climate control for marijuana To find what you need.

Final considerations

• Air ventilation and circulation: Air circulation is important to maintain uniform temperature and humidity in the culture area and to strengthen plants stems.
• Seasonal adjustments: It is important to take into account seasonal changes and adjust the temperature and humidity control systems as necessary to compensate for external variations.

Effective temperature and humidity control is an essential aspect in hydropony, especially in marijuana cultivation, where environmental conditions can have a direct impact on the quality and quantity of the final harvest.

Prevention and management of diseases and pests

The hydroponic marijuana culture is not exempt from facing diseases and pests. Although the absence of soil reduces certain risks, it is crucial to implement prevention and management strategies to ensure healthy crop. Here are a guide to learn to get rid of Pest in marijuana.

Prevention strategies

• Cultivation area hygiene: Maintaining a clean and disinfected culture space is essential to prevent the appearance of pests and diseases.
• Quarantine of new plants: Before introducing new plants to the hydroponic system, it is advisable to keep them in quarantine to ensure that they do not introduce pests or diseases.
• Access control: Limit access to the culture area can reduce the introduction of external pests or pathogens.

Identification and management

• Regular monitoring: Inspect plants regularly allows you to detect signs of pests or diseases early.
• Correct identification: It is crucial to correctly identify the plague or disease to apply the most effective treatment.
• Biological control: The use of natural predators or biological agents can be an effective and ecological form of controlling specific pests.

Treatments and solutions

• Organic and chemical products: There are specific products for the treatment of pests and diseases in hydroponic crops that must be used strictly following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Cultural practices: Altering environmental conditions, such as moisture or temperature, can help handle certain diseases or pests.
• Elimination of affected plants: In severe cases, it may be necessary to eliminate and destroy the affected plants to avoid the spread of the disease or plague.

Specific considerations for marijuana

• Sensitivity to chemicals: Since marijuana is a plant that is consumed, it is important to be cautious with the use of chemical pesticides and give preference to organic or natural solutions.
• Pest resistance: Select varieties of marijuana that are resistant to certain pests or diseases can be a proactive strategy in integrated pest management.

Hydroponic system maintenance

• Equipment cleaning: Regular cleaning of hydroponic systems, including pipes, containers and pumps, is essential to prevent pathogen proliferation.
• Renewal of the nutritious solution: Changing the nutritional solution regularly and avoiding reuse between cultivation cycles can decrease the risk of diseases.

The proper prevention and management of diseases and pests are critical aspects for the success of the hydroponic marijuana culture. Implementing an integrated approach and being attentive to problems signs are key to maintaining a healthy and productive crop.

Automation and monitoring

Automation and monitoring are essential components in modern hydroponic systems, especially when it comes to marijuana cultivation, where precision and consistency can have a great impact on the quality and quantity of the harvest.

System automation

• Automated irrigation systems: These systems allow to program and control irrigation cycles, ensuring that plants receive the exact amount of nutrient solution they need.
• Climate controllers: Devices that automatically regulate temperature, humidity and ventilation within the cultivation area to maintain optimal conditions.
• Nutrient dosing: Teams that measure and adjust nutrients in the hydroponic solution precisely, which is crucial for the optimal development of marijuana plants.

Continuous monitoring

• Ph and EC sensors: These sensors provide real -time readings of acidity and electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution, allowing rapid and precise adjustments.
• Growth cameras and sensors: Technologies that monitor the growth and health of plants, sometimes with the ability to alert the cultivator about possible problems.
• Management applications and software: Applications that collect sensor data and allow the cultivator to monitor and control the system from mobile devices or computers.

Automation and monitoring benefits

• Improved efficiency: Automation reduces the need for manual intervention, which saves time and reduces human errors.
• Growth optimization: Constant monitoring allows real -time adjustments, which can significantly improve the health and performance of plants.
• Data record: The ability to register and analyze historical data helps improve culture practices and better predict the needs of plants.

Specific considerations for marijuana

• Discretion and security: Automation can provide an additional level of discretion, minimizing the need for frequent visits to the culture area, which can be important given of the often sensitive nature of marijuana culture.
• Adaptability to specific varieties: Different marijuana strains may require specific adjustments in the system, and automation allows detailed customization for each variety.

The integration of automation and monitoring systems in the hydroponic culture of marijuana not only facilitates crop management, but can also lead to greater quality and production efficiency.

Water quality

Water is the means of life in any hydroponic system, and its quality is even more critical when it comes to the crop of marijuana, a plant that responds significantly to its environment. Water quality can affect everything from the health of the roots to the power and the terpenic profile of the final buds.

Importance of water quality

• Nutrient solubility: Water must be able to dissolve and transport essential nutrients for plants.
• Oxygenation: The roots need a constant oxygen supply, which dissolves in the water, to avoid the suffocation of plants.
• pH and EC: Water with a pH and adequate electrical conductivity (EC) is crucial for nutrient absorption.

Parameters to control

• pH of water: It must be maintained in a range that allows the optimal absorption of nutrients, usually between 5.5 and 6.5 for marijuana.
• EC levels: Electrical conductivity indicates the amount of salts dissolved in the water, and therefore, the force of the nutrient solution.
• Pollutants: It is essential to filter and treat water to eliminate chlorine, heavy metals and other pollutants that can negatively affect plants.

Water treatment and filtration

• Filtration: Use of activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis or deionization to purify water.
• PH adjustment: Use of solutions to increase or decrease the pH of water as necessary.
• Aeration: Use of diffuser stones or air pumps to increase oxygen levels in water.

Specific considerations for marijuana

• Sensitivity to nutrients: Marijuana plants can be particularly sensitive to nutrient imbalances, which makes water quality control even more important.
• Variations between strains: Different strains may require adjustments at PH and EC levels, which means that water quality should be adaptable to the specific needs of the cultivated variety.

Water quality is not simply a technical aspect of marijuana hydroponic culture; It is a fundamental basis that can determine the success or failure of a harvest. A rigorous control and proper water management are essential to maximize the health of plants and the quality of the final product.