Algae is one of the most common problems with hydroponics that cause significant problems such as reduced yields. Algae use up the nutrients in the hydroponic system to grow thus competing for nutrients with the plants. It also poses the threat of clogging the system and releasing harmful toxins that can stop the growth of hydroponic plants.
That’s why it is crucial to do cleaning of the hydroponic system to prevent algae growth to reduce the effect on plants. As it is said, prevention is better than cure. So how do you prevent algae growth in hydroponics?
This article shares everything you need to know about the cause of algae overgrowth, how to prevent it, and how to remove the growth without affecting the plants.
What Causes Green Algae in Hydroponics?
Algae are always present where there is water, nutrients, and light. The Aquatic plants grow in water that has too much nutrients because they need it for their growth. Hydroponic systems do have a lot of nutrients and water which is required for plant growth.
So don’t be alarmed to see algae growth in your hydroponics system because it has the perfect conditions for the growth. However, failure to have regular cleaning of the hydroponic system can also encourage the overgrowth of algae in the hydroponic system. So that means it is possible to prevent algae growth in hydroponics and we shall see hoe in the subsequent section.
Is Algae Bad For Hydroponics?
Although algae growth is a common occurrence in water, it is not healthy for hydroponic plants. So, why is algae bad for hydroponics?
First, the growth can get out of control and compete for nutrients and starve the hydroponic plants. The algae also release harmful toxins in the water that affect the PH of the system and stop the growth of the hydroponics.
Secondly, algae overgrowth can also clog the pipes and hydroponic system which inhibits the growth of hydroponic plants.
How to Prevent Algae Growth in Hydroponics
It is better to control algae growth than treat it because it can be stubborn and refuse to go away. The use of chemicals such as algaecides offers a temporary solution because they don’t address the root cause of the algae overgrowth. To prevent algae growth in hydroponics you have to employ more effective solutions such as:
1. Regular water changes
Replace the water regularly to remove any growth of algae or spores that would cause an overgrowth. Add fresh water often and restore nutrient solutions often to ensure they have the right PH and nutrients for plant growth.
2. Proper maintenance of the hydroponic system
You need to have a clear maintenance schedule for the hydroponic system to prevent algae growth. It is advisable to do weekly cleaning where you can rinse the system and change the water in the reservoir. Do thorough cleaning after each growing cycle to reduce the growth of algae.
Ensure that you use clean equipment such as buckets as they may have spores of algae. Alternatively, you can disinfect all the pots, growing systems, and equipment you use using bleach or vinegar before and after growing cycles.
Also Read: 3 Cleaning Hydroponic System Tips for Beginners
3. Appropriate lighting
Algae need light to survive. So, block off excess light from entering the hydroponic system. Close the lids of the water reservoir and block light from the roots to prevent unnecessary lights using covers. Cover unused plant holes to prevent light from entering the system.
4. Use hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a safe cleaning solution for hydroponic systems that can prevent algae growth in hydroponics. Ensure that you use a food-grade solution that is safe for plants.
There are two options in this case. First, you can add 10 ml of hydrogen peroxide (3%) for every gallon of water three times a week. The second option is the weekly addition of 70 ml of hydrogen peroxide to the system to control the growth of algae without harming the plants.
How to Remove Algae from Hydroponic System
If there is an algae growth in the hydroponics system then you have to remove it to prevent more harm like clogging of the system.
First, remove the algae by washing the plant roots with a brush if you prefer the manual system. Then, clean the system thoroughly and flush the water reservoir to completely get rid of the algae growths clean the system.
Add 70 ml of hydrogen peroxide to one liter of water and flush the system once more with hydrogen peroxide. Rinse with clean water then add a new batch of nutrient solution.
FAQs
- Why is my hydroponic water turning green?
The growth of algae in hydroponics causes the water to turn green. Algae is a constant nuisance for hydroponics because when it grows uncontrollably it competes with plants for nutrients and oxygen and causes poor yields.
- How do you remove algae from hydroponic roots?
It is possible to remove algae from hydroponic roots using readily available ingredients at home like hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Both vinegar and hydrogen peroxide alter the PH and prevent algae growth in hydroponics.
- What is the fastest way to get rid of algae?
The fastest way to get rid of algae in hydroponics is manually removing using a brush or adding hydrogen peroxide to the hydroponic system thrice a week to eliminate the overgrowth.
- How often do you need to clean a hydroponic system?
You should do routine cleaning of the hydroponic system once a week and through cleaning after every growing cycle. Cleaning the hydroponic system removes dirt and debris that would otherwise clog the system and prevent algae growth in hydroponics that affect the growth of the plants.
Final Thoughts
Algae is an aquatic plant that thrives where there is water, nutrients, and light. To prevent algae growth in hydroponics you should limit the conditions such as sunlight that make them grow faster. Also, ensure that the hydroponic is clean at all times with regular maintenance. You can also use hydrogen peroxide every week to prevent algae growth.
If the problem persists ensure to get a professional to help you clean the system with chemicals that need more care not to harm the plants. We hope that these four tips will help you remove and prevent algae growth in our hydroponics system.
Leave a Reply