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Ever wanted to grow strawberries without soil?
Hydroponics is the answer!
Check out these 8 super-easy tactics to grow juicy hydroponic strawberries.
Boost your strawberry harvest and enjoy fresh berries all year round.
Let’s get growing!
Pick the Right Hydroponic System
The first step to growing hydroponic strawberries is picking the right system. You’ve got a few options like nutrient film technique (NFT), deep water culture (DWC), or aeroponics.
NFT is super popular for strawberries because it allows the roots to grow well and get enough oxygen. If you’re just starting, NFT might be your best bet.
Do a little research and see which system fits your space and budget.
Choose the Best Strawberry Varieties
Not all strawberries are made equal; some do better in hydroponics than others. Consider varieties like “Seascape,” “Albion,” or “Tristar.” These types are known for their high yield and taste.
Plus, they’re everbearing, which means you can harvest strawberries throughout most of the year. Choose wisely, and you’ll be munching on delicious berries in no time!
Get the Right Nutrient Mix
Your strawberries need a balanced diet, just like you do. Make sure they get a nutrient solution with the right mix of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.
You can buy pre-mixed solutions specifically for strawberries to take the guesswork out of it. Just follow the instructions on the label, and you’re good to go.
Happy plants mean tasty berries!
Maintain Proper pH Levels
Strawberries like their pH just right—between 5.5 and 6.2. Get a pH meter to keep tabs on your water.
If the pH is too high or low, your plants won’t absorb nutrients properly. You can adjust the pH with special solutions that you can find at gardening stores—don’t worry, they’re easy to use.
Keeping the pH in check ensures your plants stay healthy.
Provide Adequate Lighting
Strawberries need plenty of light to grow well. If you’re growing indoors, you’ll need to invest in good-quality grow lights.
Aim for about 12-16 hours of light per day. LEDs are a great option because they’re energy-efficient and provide the full spectrum of light your plants need.
Good lighting will help your strawberries flourish and produce those sweet, juicy berries.
Control Temperature and Humidity
Strawberries are a bit picky when it comes to climate. They thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Also, aim for humidity levels around 50-70%. Use fans and ventilation to keep the air circulating, which helps prevent mold and mildew.
A small investment in a thermometer and hygrometer can help you keep everything just right.
Pollination is Key
If you’re growing indoors, don’t forget to help your strawberries out with pollination. In nature, bees would do the job, but indoors, you can use a small brush or even just give the plants a gentle shake to move the pollen around.
Some growers use small fans to mimic the wind. This extra step ensures you get a bigger and better yield.
Keep an Eye on Pests
Even in a hydroponic setup, you may encounter pests like aphids or spider mites. Inspect your plants regularly and take action if you spot any critters.
Use natural pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Keeping your system clean and monitoring your plants can go a long way in preventing infestations.