How to Grow Garlic Chives Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Garlic Chives thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 7 to 14 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Reaches maturity in about 80 to 90 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place garlic chive seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a well-lit area until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Transfer the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | 10-12 hours/day | Full spectrum | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Seedling | 12-14 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 15 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.0.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 130 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 50 parts per million
- Potassium: 180 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
- Culinary Versatility: Garlic chives offer a mild garlic flavor, perfect for salads, soups, and other dishes.
- Perennial Growth: Can be harvested multiple times as it regrows after cutting.
- Ornamental and Aromatic: Features attractive, flat green leaves and produces beautiful white flowers.
Conclusion
Garlic Chives are an excellent choice for hydroponic beginners due to their minimal care requirements and continuous yield. This herb enhances both the flavor and nutritional content of your dishes, while also adding visual appeal to your hydroponic setup. Enjoy the fresh, mild garlic flavor throughout the year.