Pest Control for Hydroponics – The Things You Need to Know
Hydroponic plants like all other plants are prone to constant attacks by pests and insects. These attacks by pests can be overcome literally by using the right hydroponic pest control. However, it is very important to consider a few steps that need to be followed when using pest control measures.
Considering the various kinds of pest attacks and the many dangers that your plant may have to go through it is vital that your technique in spraying your grow is correct. Make sure that the spray is done in the right manner so any chances of your crop drying out and dying are minimal.
Here are the four effective ways of spraying pesticides:
1. Make the Dependable Solution – The variety of products that are used to make a dependable pesticide solution are endless and making sure to pick the right one is the most important thing. You must pick a pesticide that matches the stage that your grow is in (grow or bloom). You can buy online or offline but make sure to dilute the pesticide in the right amount (less is more). Before using this solution make sure to read the instructions very carefully.
2. Apply Evenly and Make No Mistakes – The idea of even spraying is to ensure that the bug spray for the indoor plants is applied evenly on all of the crop and equipment for an effective treatment. Begin spraying with the outermost set of plants working your way up and down each one at an even pace. You should be covering all the foliage of the plant, but also avoid drenching them by spraying them lightly (on the stems, on the top of the leaf, under the leaf). After completely spraying the outermost set of plants, move to the next row making your way from the back to the front until you are completely finished with the crop. Make sure to spray your grow area too since the infestation doesn’t stop with the plants (every corner, every place, under the pots, over the system, on the walls and et cetera). Not to mention, make sure to be extremely careful with electrical equipment. Depending on the stage of your crop, application of pesticide varies and it is critical for it to be done correctly otherwise you risk destroying your crop.
3. Be Considerate of How You’re Spraying – The thing about spraying the crops on your own is to be considerate of the distance from which the plants are being sprayed on; this is an important point to make sure your plants are given the right amount of spray. The sprayer should be positioned approximately 18" away from the plant to provide an even coverage, but avoid drenching the plant. If the solution is dripping off of the leaves excessively after application, you are over spraying.
4. Spray Timing is Vital - If pesticides or other chemicals are applied in the presence of light, it often results in the plant burning and ultimately plant death. We recommend applying pesticides at twilight, so that the pesticide has time to work and evaporate before the lights turn on. Do this by using a green LED so you do not disturb the light cycle. Make sure that your air circulation is on at 100% to help dry your grow / crop. Application of pesticide varies between the stages of a plant life, most especially in the growth and bloom stages so make sure to contact us prior for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. You may check the grow area after application and before the lights turn on to make sure that the crop has almost dried. If it has not, dim your lights to the lowest possible setting to help with the drying process and to prevent burning.
Any hydroponic gardener who considers all these points about indoor plant pest control can be certain of a good yield of crop.