Best Flowers for Hydroponics system
Hydroponics , a new concept which is now becoming popular due to its success rate which has increased by time and now the farmers or we can say traditional farmers are shifting their interest to this soil-less venture. Hereby most of the farmers use these hydroponics techniques in growing vegetables as they are easy but new popular floriculture is also in mind of the growers. As we see, floriculture is mostly used by the people mostly for their own satisfaction and interest then their commercial purpose. Here we discuss everything from how to choose best flowers for hydroponics and last we conclude everything about growing flowers in hydroponics.
Why to Choose Hydroponics for Growing Flowers:
Some of the basic reasons for choosing hydroponics for growing flowers in hydroponics is that anyone not having a land to grow flowers can use hydroponics or small hydroponics where it can be grown. It is set up indoors so it can be done by anyone having general facilities of electricity and water supply.
One more factor is if the off-season production of flowers as some flowers cannot be grown in high or low temperature but in hydroponics we can control the temperature up to some extent. Also light plays the most important role in hydroponics and in hydroponics and protected conditions light can be set according to the requirement of the crop.
Short Day and Long Day Flowers:
For growing flowers the most important concept in photoperiodism. Those plants which need less than 10-12 hours of day length for flowering and not flowers in long days when the day length increased from 12 to 15 hours then those plants are called short day plants. On the other hand those plants which require more than 12 hours of day length or light period for flowering and cannot flower in short days are known as long day plants. By this concept if anyone wants to grow plants in the off-season hydroponics is the best option.
No Need of Extra Care:
In hydroponics there is no need for extra care ;like daily irrigation or nutrient supply and other things. Once the nutrient solution is made and then it flows accordingly. The required amount of nutrients and water is taken by planets and the left flows down to the reservoir tank. Best flowers for hydroponics are to be those which did not offer so much of care.
Best Flowers for Hydroponics:
Geraniums:
Geraniums are a very good choice as they are available in different colors and different rows with different colors can be grown which provide a very attractive scene. These are easily grown in hydroponics as they are shallow rooted. so these geraniums are best flowers for hydroponics.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 65-75°F (18-24°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 5.8-6.5 |
EC | 1.5-2.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 50-70% RH |
Petunias:
Petunias are another popular choice for hydroponic flower cultivation. Available in a wide range of colors, petunias adapt well to hydroponic environments and can be grown with proper care. Petunias are winter annuals and it blooms naturally in between winters to spring.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 60-70°F (15-21°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 5.5-6.5 |
EC | 1.5-2.0 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
African Violets:
Known for their delicate flowers and velvety leaves, African violets can be successfully grown hydroponically with attention to humidity levels and proper nutrient management. These beautiful flowers when grown in rows of hydroponic systems make beautiful scenes and their commercial fetch is also very good.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Bright, indirect light (4-6 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 70-80°F (21-27°C) Night: 60-70°F (15-21°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-6.5 |
EC | 0.8-1.2 mS/cm |
Humidity | 50-70% RH |
Orchids:
Orchids are renowned for their exotic beauty and are increasingly being cultivated in hydroponic systems. With their intricate root structures, orchids require specialized care and attention to thrive hydroponically. However, when provided with the right balance of nutrients, humidity, and light, orchids can reward growers with stunning blooms year-round. Orchids are very popular in the north eastern side where these are also grown naturally.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Bright, indirect light (4-6 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 70-85°F (21-29°C) Night: 60-65°F (15-18°C) |
pH Level | 5.5-6.5 |
EC | 0.8-1.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 50-70% RH |
Roses:
While traditionally grown in soil, roses can also be cultivated hydroponically with careful planning and maintenance. Yes these are tough to grow and maintain but when these roses bloom they are like out of the world. We know that roses are the most grown flower and most used by the people and the most popular one. But in hydroponics thornless varieties like Smooth Lady which are thornless and their maintenance become easier. Roses fetch good prices in the market in the month of valentine, weddings, birthdays and its stock is always needed in the market.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 60-75°F (15-24°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 5.5-6.5 |
EC | 1.5-2.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
Lavender:
Lavender’s fragrant flowers and aromatic foliage make it a popular choice for hydroponic cultivation. Lavender is also a medicinal crop and its fragrance is most accepted by people. Its fragrance is used in most of the commercial products and many psychological researches show lavender as a symbol of freshness.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 70-85°F (21-29°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-8.0 |
EC | 1.2-1.8 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
Gerbera:
Gerberas are also available in many colors like orange, deep orange, red, white etc. and also in many shades of these colors. These flowers also remain fresh after harvesting for many days in sugar waters. Gerbera is also a best option to grow in hydroponics.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 65-75°F (18-24°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 5.8-6.5 |
EC | 1.5-2.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 50-60% RH |
Chrysanthemum:
Chrysanthemums, also known as pot mums, are the best flowers for hydroponics. Also available in different shades and a typical short day plant. To grow these plants it is covered with polythene to induce flowering it shot=rt days are not available in those months. And in long days the chrysanthemum remains in vegetative phase and does not flower.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 65-75°F (18-24°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-6.5 |
EC | 1.5-2.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 50-60% RH |
Carnation:
Carnation, the plant whose flower is known as the divine flower. This is very attractive and unique and known for its unique flower. It has very attractive flowers also available in different colors. Carnation can be grown in hydroponics with a good return. Very cool or hot weather is not preferred for carnation as it is a sensitive crop, however it can revive easily after going into unfavorable conditions.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade (4-6 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 60-70°F (15-21°C) Night: 50-60°F (10-15°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-7.0 |
EC | 1.2-2.0 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-50% RH |
Daisies:
Daisies are cheerful flowers that can thrive in hydroponic systems with proper care. These are easy to grow and maintain easily. They need very less care, most of the varieties have leafless flowers due to this they are a different look then the other flowers. These are farmer friendly crops as it has very less insect pest attacks and very less chances of diseases.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 60-75°F (15-24°C) Night: 50-65°F (10-18°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-7.0 |
EC | 1.2-1.8 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
Marigolds:
Marigolds are easy to grow and can add bright pops of color to your hydroponic garden. This is a very hardy crop and the maintenance is not so much required. Also good for hydroponics as it is not a very sensitive crop and attacks of insect pests are very less.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 65-75°F (18-24°C) Night: 55-65°F (13-18°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-7.0 |
EC | 1.5-2.5 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
Snapdragons:
Snapdragons are popular for their unique flower shape and availability in different colors. They can be grown hydroponically with proper support for their tall stems and regular pruning to encourage bushy growth.
Growing Parameter | Optimum Range |
Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade (6-8 hours/day) |
Temperature | Day: 60-75°F (15-24°C) Night: 50-65°F (10-18°C) |
pH Level | 6.0-7.0 |
EC | 1.2-1.8 mS/cm |
Humidity | 40-60% RH |
How to Choose Which Flower to Grow in their Hydroponics:
For choosing the appropriate flowers for your hydroponics it normally depends upon the grower what kind of flowers they prefer and want to see in flowering. One more thing in mind is the cost of seeds and planting material, some of the planting material is difficult to find. Another reason are also impactful while choosing the flower that it is good if the crop selected is of that season, yes we can grow off-season as we discuss above but one thing should be kept in mind that in off-season production the cost of production is also increased as to set up light in the indoor and also for temperature regulations.
Conclusion:
Growing flowers in hydroponics is a satisfactory work as you grow your hydroponic system. By watching the rows full of your favorite flowers in full blooming stages it is just a wonderful feeling and provides a great satisfaction to the mind. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to hydroponics, experimenting with flowers in your hydroponic system can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.