Organic salts are a type of fertilizer that can be used in hydroponic systems to provide plants with the essential nutrients they need to grow. They are made from natural, organic sources, such as bone meal, kelp meal, or fish emulsion, and are considered a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical fertilizers.
Some common organic salts that can be used in hydroponics include:
- Fish emulsion: made from fish waste and is a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Kelp meal: made from seaweed and is a good source of micronutrients and growth hormones.
- Bone meal: made from animal bones and is a good source of phosphorus and calcium.
- Blood meal: made from animal blood and is a good source of nitrogen.
- Rock dust: made from crushed rocks and is a good source of micronutrients and minerals.
When using organic salts in a hydroponic system, it’s important to follow the instructions on the label and use the correct dosage. A general rule of thumb is to add 1-2 tablespoons of organic salt per gallon of water. However, it’s always recommended to check the specific recommendations of the product you are using.
It’s also important to monitor the pH and EC (electrical conductivity) of the nutrient solution regularly and adjust as necessary to ensure that it stays within the optimal range for your plants. Additionally, some organic salts can cause an increase in the pH level of the nutrient solution, so it’s important to check and adjust the pH regularly when using them.
It’s important to note that organic salts are less concentrated than chemical fertilizers, so they may need to be used in higher quantities and more frequently. They can also take longer to break down and become available to the plants.