Quote Originally Posted by wastwhg
ok please can someone 'in the know' please help me with a few quick questions.

1) what should be the ph value of the water used to germinate the seeds? and in my hydro-system?

2) How wet should the rockwell be to germinate?

3) How big should the plants be before i stick them under my 400-Watt grolux lamp? I have heard 'after the first proper leaves are formed', is this correct?

4) I have a private water supply at my house and hard water. Is limescale bad for plants as my waters full of the stuff!?

5) When is the correct time to start putting nutrients in the water im using on the seeds? And how strong? 1/4 of normal strength or even less?

many thanks

wast imp:
Welcome to our friendly community. Hope you enjoy your stay

1. Generally,pH 5.5 - 6.0 is ideal for hydro system. Most growers used RO water or spring water to germinate seeds. pH 6.0-7.0 work fine on seeds.
2. Seeds work well in moist rockwool,not too wet.
3. Young seedlings do not need intense light until they have 3 - 5 set of true leaves.
4. Hard water is bad... Especially working with hydroponic, you better go with RO water OR you will end up geting problem.
5. As soon as your seedlings enter vegetative stage, 3-5 set of true leaves, start giving them 1/4 of normal strength and monitor for sign of deficiency and toxicity.