How to Grow Nasturtium Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Nasturtium prefers temperatures between 50°F to 70°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 7 to 10 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity and begins to flower in about 35 to 52 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place nasturtium seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Maintain a consistent temperature and light until germination occurs.
- Step 4: Transfer the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the Growneer hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | 12-14 hours/day | Blue (450 nm), some Red (660 nm) | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Seedling | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-250 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 250-350 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 250-350 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.0.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 100 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 50 parts per million
- Potassium: 150 parts per million
- Calcium: 100 parts per million
- Magnesium: 50 parts per million
- Trace Elements: Include Iron, Manganese, Zinc at 1 part per million each as needed.
Plant Benefits
- Edible Flowers: Nasturtiums produce vibrant, peppery flowers that are edible and can decorate salads and dishes.
- Pest Repellent: Known for their ability to deter certain garden pests.
- Easy to Grow: Very forgiving and suitable for beginners.
Conclusion
Nasturtiums are one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow hydroponically for beginners. Not only do they add a splash of color to your garden, but their edible flowers also offer culinary versatility. This plant can help you learn more about the nuances of hydroponic gardening while providing aesthetic and practical benefits.
