AEROPONICS 2.0
Preventative
maintenance is key to
avoiding future failures.”
Tinkering with a high-pressure aeroponic
system is often as theraputic as the
gardening itself.
This is also a good time to add a
cleaning solution, such as hydrogen
peroxide, to help clean and sterilize
the plumbing. Before beginning
another crop, the system needs to be
cleaned out the same way a typical
hydroponic or aeroponic system would
be cleaned: with good scrubbing and
sterilization methods. The plumbing
lines and pump can be left intact, or if
they have been running clean, they can
be dismantled.
Hybrid Systems
Many HPA gardeners build hybrid
systems, which include equipment that
runs other growing styles as a back-up
plan. For example, an HPA set-up can be
easily converted to an ebb and flow or
recirculating deep water culture system
by fitting it with removable or adjustable
drains and a submersible pump hooked
up to a timer that can be plugged in
as needed. In the event of extreme
temperatures, or equipment failure, this
can be invaluable. The trichoblasts will
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Maximum Yield USA | November 2015
have been removed throughout the
process of heavy watering, and will take
some time to grow back, but the crop
will be saved and can continue to thrive
in either setting.
An adjustable system that can go
between hydroponics and HPA is
also an advantage when growing
in the same set-up from cuttings to
harvest because growers can switch
it up whenever necessary. A hybrid
system makes it possible to root with
bubbleponics, or grow in the early
vegetative cycle with hydroponics and
then move towards HPA as the root
system develops. This often results in
stronger root systems that can support
larger plants.
Finally, a hybrid system provides a fun
way to learn the variances in different
growing styles and how the plants react
to subtle nuances in air, water and
nutrient delivery. This often provides
growers with an educational experience
in addition to crop production
alone. Often, tinkering around with
the system is as therapeutic as the
gardening itself.
Photos submitted by Multiponics.