What is a Nutrient Formula and How is it Used in Hydroponic Growing?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants efficiently and sustainably without soil. So, how do the plants get their nutrients, you ask?

Hydroponic plants gain nutrients via nutrient formulas dissolved in water instead of obtaining nutrients from soil. Many see this as an advantage as it allows for precise control over nutrient delivery, ensuring plants receive the minerals they need as efficiently as possible. Hydroponic plants typically grow in gravel, clay pellets, or even just water where their roots are exposed to nutrients. These special nutrient solutions are a mix of water and essential macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, calcium, magnesium, etc.) that are vital for plant growth. Introducing quality and optimized nutrient formulas to hydroponic plants is critical for healthy growth and productivity, so it’s important to have the right “recipe”.

What we have found works best for plants in a hydroponic farm is a tested, and easy-to-use mineral nutrient fertilizer. The nutrient formulas that we recommend for our Flex Farms  have been tested and developed by hydroponic experts who have more than 50 years of experience. They are a two-part nutrient plant formula consisting of both macronutrients and micronutrients. 

The Fork Farms nutrient formulas are derived from top-quality, natural ingredients, mimicking nutrients that are found in natural soil and making the hydroponic growing process seamless and fruitful. They are also simple to administer and specifically created and optimized for hydroponics. Another benefit to these nutrients is they are specifically-formulated concentrations for various crop types and stages of plant growth, giving everyone the opportunity to be a farmer. 

What are These Nutrients and How do They Help Plants Grow Hydroponically? A Little Lesson in Chemistry.

Macronutrients (NPK’s):

• Nitrogen (N) is crucial for stem and leaf growth, as well as the production of proteins, enzymes, and chlorophyll
• Phosphorus (P) promotes root development  and fruiting. It is critical to help energy transfer within the plant
• Potassium (K) supports overall plant health and photosynthesis, and helps roots absorb water.

MacroNutrients or Secondary:

• Calcium (Ca) is needed to support proper root development and and overall plant structure
• Magnesium (Mg) is essential for photosynthesis and energy transfer within the plant
• Iron (Fe) is vital for photosynthesis and forming chlorophyll.

Just like humans, plants need to be given a balanced solution of nutrients to grow optimally and remain healthy.  In addition to a quality nutrient formula, hydroponic plants also need:

• Targeted pH Level: pH is the acidity of the water, and without the right acidity, the plants won't be able to absorb the nutrients
• A reliable supply of water
• Oxygen and aeration
• LED or fluorescent lights  for photosynthesis to supplement natural light and support growth
• Custom Temperature and Humidity.

For more lessons in chemistry and to learn more about hydroponic growing, please feel free to contact a team member at Fork Farms at your earliest convenience.