How to Make Your Own Hydroponic Nutrient Solution

Hydroponic gardening involves growing plants in a combination of nutrient-rich solution and a root-securing matrix other than soil. One benefit of hydroponic gardening is that you can easily control the amount of nutrients a plant receives, rather than relying on the nutrients found in soil. The fertilizer salts usually required to nurture hydroponic plants can be costly, but an inexpensive nutrient solution can be made at home using a few readily available ingredients.

2 containers

10 oz. sodium nitrate

10 oz. calcium nitrate

10 oz. potassium sulphate

15 oz. superphosphate

5 oz. magnesium sulphate (epsom salts)

1 oz. iron sulphate

1 tsp. manganese sulphate

1 tsp. boric acid

1/2 tsp. zinc sulphate

1/2 tsp. copper sulphate

Mortar and pestle

Plastic bag (optional)

Rolling pin (optional)

Combine the sodium nitrate, calcium nitrate, potassium sulphate, superphosphate and epsom salts in a clean container. Stir until they take on a uniform appearance.

Combine the iron sulphate, manganese sulphate, boric acid, zinc sulphate and copper sulphate in a separate container and then grind with mortar and pestle. You can also put them a sturdy plastic bag and crush them well with a rolling pin.

Combine both mixtures and stir until integrated. Dissolve 1 tsp. into 1 qt. of water and use 1 oz. of this solution for every 3 gallons of water. You can also add 1/2 tsp. per 100 gallons of water. Discard any remaining powder after 24 hours because it will lose efficacy.