the plants. Another pest, parasitic nematodes can be
seen only under microscopes. They cause a distinc-
tive damage to the plant root that includes swelling,
galls, root death, root knots and overall loss of plant
vigor.
Dr. Lynette Morgan also discovered that mites
can be entirely controlled with a mixture of envi-
ronmental modifications and applications of sprays.
Note that they thrive in dry and low-humidity condi-
tions. An increase in the level of humidity assists in
restricting their growth and development. On the
other hand, a heavy infestation of nematodes re-
quires the entire system being shut down and steril-
ized.
Clogs
Clogs can happen, especially with spray and drip
systems. Spray or drip systems use high-pressure
pumps, specifically to force the nutrient solution to
pass through a very tiny hole.
Nutrient filters as well as pre-filters can signifi-
cantly reduce clog occurrence, but cannot eliminate
it. It’s wise to spend some extra time each day and
check the drip head or spray nozzle and replace any
that are clogged.
Strange Plant Problems
An unusual problem encountered by many
hydroponic gardeners, especially those who have
specialized in tomatoes, appears when they open
a tomato. Many germinated seeds inside the fruit
tissue may appear rather alarming. The premature
germination of seeds in tomatoes, while the fruit is
still enclosed, is referred to as vivipary. It is a com-
mon issue that can also be found in supermarkets
where tomatoes are not stored properly. Vivipary
occurs when the natural germination inhibitors that
surround the seed break down, enabling the seed to
germinate inside the moist environment. It mostly
occurs in tomato fruit that experiences cold tempera-
tures, specifically during storage and development.
Using abscisic acid to help prevent vivipary on
the mother plant, as well as the addition of hormone
to the culture medium helps inhibit vivipary.
Salt Buildup
The buildup of salts appears as off-white or
white crystalline residue or crust on the surface of
a growing plant. It can also be found at the base of
the stem and can cause salt burn damage. Different
types of media are more prone to salt build up and
EC problems when compared to others. Plants with
a high rate of water loss and a porous structure are
more susceptible to salt crusting. An extended clay
granule or similar media can develop a white coat-
ing, specifically on the surface, especially in ebb-
and-flow systems. The buildup of salt occurs when
a media is supplied with nutrient solution. The dis-
solved salts in nutrient solution evaporate faster and
lose moisture when compared to the rate the plant’s
root system absorbs the nutrients. Good indicators
of a salt buildup problem are plants that become
stunted, hard, dark and that show unusually slow
growth.
Fortunately, it’s easy to deal with salt build ups.
To help eliminate salt buildup frequently monitor the
EC levels and drain and replace the nutrient solution
in the system. GG
Eric Gibs is a writer / blogger who concentrates on home improve-
ment and creating a healthy home. Those passions pushed Eric to
become a self-taught hydroponics gardener. You can follow him
at Blog - PlaceCallHome.com, Twitter - @EricPlaceHome and Face-
book - Facebook.com/placecallhome.
PlaceCallHome.com
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