Tips for using Hydroton in hydroponics

Easy guide to working on your versatile Hydroton

Hydroton grow rocks are gaining fame in hydroponics due to their reliability and usefulness as a growing medium. You might be surprised to learn that these inexpensive growing media are not rocks at all; They are expanded clay products. Due to its high absorbency and reusability, the hydroton has gained popularity among hydroponic and soil gardeners.

Hydroton is the most admired growing medium in hydroponics due to its adaptability. Works great with deep water culture, drip system, and ebb and flow system. Just keep in mind that hydrotons float and therefore avoid using them in systems that flood the roots. If you intend to cut down on your average spend, then you need to know how to care for your hydroton pebbles so that you can effectively reuse them.

Here are some guidelines on how you can keep them and use them longer for a fabulous yield each growing season:

• Thorough cleaning with isopropyl alcohol- Thorough cleaning of hydroton pebbles after use is sure to help you cut down on gardening costs. Washing them quickly after using them in a hydroponic system is the least helpful, so it’s a good idea to wash them carefully with isopropyl alcohol. Not only will this remove the salt deposits formed by the hydroponic nutrients, but it will also remove any organic material trapped inside. After that, rinse them with pH balanced water to remove any traces of alcohol that get into the hydroponic system.
• Using smaller pots helps: Due to the limited absorbency of hydroton pebbles, it would be nice if you use smaller pots while using hydroton nutrients. In larger containers, even distribution of nutrients becomes difficult in such a medium leading to some dry spots at the top.
• Mingle– Unlike other reusable media, the hydroton has good absorbency. However, to retain moisture and nutrients more efficiently, you would need to mix it with some other growing medium such as coir. Not only will this retain the hydroton nutrients, but it will also impart the benefits of the dual growing medium to the plants.
• Go cheap but control porosity– Although the hydroton is inexpensive, remaining too cheap can sometimes take a toll on your pocketbook. The best hydroton pebbles are fired at very high temperatures which gives them their well-known porosity. If you compromise on cost, you may not get the correct porosity of the granules, which can affect their functionality.

Benefits

Hydroton is known for its perfect water holding capacity; this prevents overwatering. Maintains oxygen exchange giving healthy roots. Hydroton is a sterile pH neutral product and you can use it in your hydroponic system to grow your valuable flowers and vegetables economically and conveniently.