How to Grow Bi-Color Sunflower Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Bi-Color Sunflower thrives in temperatures between 70°F to 80°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 7 to 10 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Begins to flower in about 80 to 100 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place bi-color 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 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: Bi-color sunflowers are known for their striking two-toned petals, adding 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
Growing bi-color sunflowers hydroponically can be a visually rewarding experience, providing not only aesthetic beauty but also edible seeds. These sunflowers require more space and light than other plants, but the unique joy they bring to gardening makes them worth the effort. Enjoy the stunning blooms and the vibrant atmosphere they create in your garden.
