How to Grow Radio Calendula Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Radio Calendula prefers temperatures between 60°F to 70°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Typically takes 10 to 14 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Begins to flower in about 50 to 60 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place Radio Calendula seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a warm, light-filled 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 | 12-14 hours/day | Full spectrum | 100-150 µmol/m²/s |
| Seedling | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
| Flowering | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-250 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.0.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 120 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
- Medicinal Properties: Known for its anti-inflammatory and healing benefits, often used in skin care products.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Produces bright orange flowers that enhance the beauty of any space.
- Edible Flowers: Petals can be used to add color and a slightly peppery taste to salads and dishes.
Conclusion
Radio Calendula is a rewarding plant for hydroponic beginners, offering both visual appeal and medicinal benefits. It is relatively easy to grow and provides lovely blooms that can be used in culinary and therapeutic applications. This flower not only brightens your garden but also brings a touch of nature’s healing to your home.
