How to Grow Sunflower Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Sunflowers prefer temperatures between 70°F to 80°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 7 to 10 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity and begins to flower in about 80 to 120 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place sunflower seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a warm, light-filled environment until germination occurs.
- Step 4: Transfer 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 | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
Seedling | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-300 µmol/m²/s |
Vegetative | 16-18 hours/day | Full spectrum | 400-600 µmol/m²/s |
Mature | 16-18 hours/day | Full spectrum | 400-600 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.5.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 150 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 100 parts per million
- Potassium: 200 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
- Aesthetic Appeal: Sunflowers are known for their large, bright flowers that can add beauty to any space.
- Edible Seeds: Produces seeds that are both nutritious and delicious.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts beneficial insects which can benefit other plants in your hydroponic system.
Conclusion
Sunflowers are not only beautiful but also offer edible seeds, making them a rewarding addition to any hydroponic garden. While they require more space and light than other plants, the unique joy they bring to gardening makes them worth the effort. Growing sunflowers hydroponically can be a fascinating project, especially for those looking to explore beyond traditional gardening.