grow cycle | 10 things about nutrient reservoirs
Let ’ s take a look at 10 things you should consider when pondering the efficacy of your nutrient reservoir and system . Some of your persistent problems may begin , and could end , there .
CONSTRUCTION
Reservoir fabrication is often a do-it-yourself project . Sometimes this is the most creative solution for a unique set-up , but often it ’ s a simple cost-saving measure . A large storage tote is one of the most popular choices for a starter reservoir . Totes are easy to source , inexpensive , and can accommodate enough water to make them a worthwhile option . Once filled , there can be problems , though . What looks like a thick and rigid wall that could retain its shape under pressure can distort by bowing outward , either at first or over time , when exposed to the warm conditions under hot lights . This can cause leaks around fittings and make it difficult or impossible to attach a lid .
Instead , choose a container designed especially for a hydroponic system , or one made using a heavy-duty , food grade material , like a large picnic cooler or a barrel designed for food industry applications . Polyethylene ( HDPE , LDPE ) is a popular plastic used in these types of products . Although other plastics may work , they could also leach chemicals into the nutrient mixture or off-gas volatile organic compounds into your growroom or tent . The problem with making questionable choices is that problems won ’ t necessarily present right away and can be hard to pinpoint later .
SIZING
It can be easy for hydroponic beginners to underestimate the size of reservoir needed to raise plants to maturity . Plants need increasingly more nutrient as they grow from seedlings into large , healthy specimens . However , an educated guess can be made based on anticipated gallons consumed per plant at maturity , and the reservoir can then be sized accordingly .
A good general rule is that each large plant , like a tomato , will require three gallons of water volume . For a medium sized plant , that drops to 1.5 gallons , and a small plant will require . 5 gallons or so . Be generous , if possible . For example , if you are planning to maintain four large , four medium , and four small plants , your reservoir should hold at least 20 gallons to accommodate their needs . As a cushion , doubling that capacity to 40 gallons isn ’ t too generous . In this instance , more is better . A big fudge factor has built-in growth potential for more plants , and can sometimes save you the chore of adding nutrient as often — features you ’ ll likely appreciate in the months and years to come . If your set-up can backfill into your reservoir during a power outage or other failure , make sure the tank is large enough to contain the volume of nutrient / water running through your entire system . Don ’ t rely on a 40-gallon reservoir to hold 45 gallons in an emergency . If you do , you ’ ll be disappointed and probably spend hours mopping up the mess .
“ CHOOSE a container designed especially for a hydroponic system , or one made using a heavy-duty , food grade material , like a large picnic cooler or a barrel designed for food industry applications .”
94 Maximum Yield USA | February 2017