Getting started with Hydroponic Basil
Growing hydroponics basil at home offers myriad benefits. This environmentally friendly farming approach needs less space, less water and no soil, just a nutrient-laden water solution. As basil is an herb savored in multiple cuisines worldwide, many wish to have a constant supply at home. As a result, learning how to grow hydroponic basil can be a beneficial endeavor.
Selecting the Right Hydroponics System
Multiple hydroponic systems are available, with the most common being the Deep Water Culture (DWC), Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), and Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain).
DWC is optimal for beginners because of its simplicity. It involves a plant’s roots being submerged into a nutrient-rich oxygenated water solution. On the other hand, NFT continuously flows a thin layer of nutrient solution over the roots inside a tilted trough, while Ebb and Flow inundate the root system with the nutrient solution before draining it back out.
Determining the appropriate system depends on your circumstances and what you find most convenient. If you prefer an uncomplicated system which requires less maintenance and is cost-effective, DWC is advisable. For those who want a more advanced system and space is not a constraint, NFT and Ebb and Flow are better options.
Basil Seed Starting and Transplanting
To start with hydroponics basil, you need to sow the seeds in rockwool cubes, a popular hydroponics growing medium. Soak the cubes in water with a pH level of 5.5 for about one hour. Then, place two to three seeds in each hole and keep the cubes in a humidity dome under fluorescent lights.
Make sure the temperature stays between 70°F and 75°F (21°C to 24°C). After the seeds germinate (usually around four to six days), remove the humidity dome and conserve only the strongest seedling in each cube.
When seedlings have two to three sets of true leaves, usually after two to three weeks, you can transplant them to your hydroponic system.
Nutrient Solution and pH level
For basil plants, select a complete hydroponic nutrient solution, including primary, secondary and micronutrients. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the correct dose with water.
Maintain a pH level of 5.5 – 6.5 for your basil. You can test the pH level using pH strips or a digital pH meter. Since pH may alter over time, frequent inspection is recommended. Adjust the pH level using pH up and down solutions as needed.
Lighting for Hydroponic Basil
Basil plants need ample lighting for photosynthesis. If you have strong natural light, that may suffice. If not, LED growth lights are an excellent alternative. Basil plants typically require around 10-12 hours of light daily. A timer can be used to automate this process and ensure consistent lighting for the plants.
Temperature and Humidity Conditions
The optimal temperature for hydroponic basil lies between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C). A heat mat under the system can help achieve these levels if growing in a cool area. Basil also prefers relative humidity between 40-60%. Too high humidity can encourage mold and fungal disease. Regularly monitor the environment using a thermometer and hygrometer.
Pruning and Harvesting Hydroponic Basil
Pruning basil will encourage bushy growth instead of growing tall and spindly. After the basil has grown six leaves, prune back to just above the second set. New stems will grow from the leaf nodes, doubling the yield eventually.
Harvest basil as you need for your meals. Regular harvesting enhances growth, so don’t hesitate to pinch off the leaves. You can harvest up to 75% of the plant every few weeks. Just ensure there is enough foliage left for photosynthesis.
Pest and Disease Control
Like other plants grown indoors, hydroponic basil can attract pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Implementing some preventive measures like deploying yellow sticky traps or introducing beneficial insects can help. In case of a severe infestation, it may be necessary to use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Diseases like root rot or fusarium wilt can also affect basil. Keeping a clean growing environment and regularly checking the plant health is vital.
Growing hydroponic basil at home is a rewarding hobby that brings the freshness of home-grown herbs to your kitchen. By following these steps, you can ensure a successful and bountiful harvest anytime you need it. With hydroponics, geography and climate are no longer barriers to your green thumb aspirations. Just a little attention and proper care can help your hydroponics system thrive resulting in fresh and flavorsome basil available at your fingertips.
