Cool_Beans
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Raw water parameters after circulating overnight.
I've always used municipal tap but it can vary greatly depending on location. I don't grow hydro but I'll go ahead and assume that if you have a high mineral tap water that could lead to issues with deposits forming on your equipment?Regarding water quality, is RO always the way, or does tap work fine as long as you know what's in it and can adjust?
What things might stand out in tap water that would make it less desirable for hydro?
At 50 PPM and 7.5PH, I would not be scared at all.Regarding water quality, is RO always the way, or does tap work fine as long as you know what's in it and can adjust?
What things might stand out in tap water that would make it less desirable for hydro?
Thanks @steamroller! i didn't know i could look up my municipal water test results for freeBesides elevated PPM, most go RO because their water has a high KH[ even if they never figured it out] which makes buffering it a short live effort in going crazy. You know set it today and tomorrow the numbers are right back where you started. That is what KH does. It fights buffering.
Like Moe said with 50ppm I would have no fear barring the high sodium report which I just don't think could be there at 50ppm. Salts raise ppm .
You can get your water analysis just buy looking up your supplier online. They are required yearly test in most areas as a minimum.
Are your clones in your tap and have done anything for them?
Nothing speaks louder than a true example of the results in use..
Recent analysis says 3-4.2 ppm sodium. The clones like it just fine so you're right, I'm gonna listen to them.Besides elevated PPM, most go RO because their water has a high KH[ even if they never figured it out] which makes buffering it a short live effort in going crazy. You know set it today and tomorrow the numbers are right back where you started. That is what KH does. It fights buffering.
Like Moe said with 50ppm I would have no fear barring the high sodium report which I just don't think could be there at 50ppm. Salts raise ppm .
You can get your water analysis just buy looking up your supplier online. They are required yearly test in most areas as a minimum.
Are your clones in your tap and have done anything for them?
Nothing speaks louder than a true example of the results in use..
So what happens in the root zone in a live system is pretty involved. For example, the plant may release carbohydrates thru the roots (exudates) to feed beneficial bacteria. This bacteria might do several things in symbiosis with the plants. Change PH. Produce enzymes or modify proteins / generate amino acids. Just a whole bunch of stuff. The root zone (rhizosphere) is it's own little universe.Should I have an air stone or some agitation in my reservoir? It's pretty flat. Also, I have a mesh sack of bio balls I was going to put over the drain hole of my res for building up bacteria. I use them in our little artificial waterfall/fish pond system outside, I assumed it would be gtg in this.
No problem.This is really fascinating stuff, thank you for taking the time and explaining it like that Moe. Glad to hear I'm on the right track.
I suppose it's like cooking, they can teach you the science but it's still a lot of alchemy and art.No problem.
If it sounds like I know what I am talking about that’s not entirely true. I got the basics but the interactions in the root zone are so complex I’ll be the first to admit I’m only scratching the surface and understand little overall.