pH = availability of the minerals to the plant
ppm/EC = amount of minerals in the solution (concentration)*
These two parameters are the main ones that have to be taken into consideration when considering nutrient solutions. There are several types of instruments on the market for measuring these factors. The HGDi Technologies A + B flowering and growth fertilizers are carefully prepared for our customers by a team of specialized chemists. They provide optimal yield at concentrations ranging from 900 to 1200 ppm, depending on environmental factors and on the plant’s stage of development. So far, it has been demonstrated that there is no need to apply fertilizer concentrations in excess of 1200 ppm. In fact, it is important not to give plants more fertilizer than they can assimilate in view of the other limiting factors. The temperature of the water used is also very important. Plant cells cannot assimilate all the minerals they need if the temperature is too low: the minimum acceptable temperature would be room temperature (between 15 and 18°C at ground level).
We sell a wide range of natural, organic, powdered, liquid, foliar and granular fertilizers for indoors, outdoors, hydroponics and soil. Given that each one has a different application, we carry a large inventory of fertilizers in order to ensure that we can work to your specifications.
Plant propagation through seeding and planting calls for special attention in terms of the use of fertilizers. When seeding, it is imperative to avoid all fertilizers because the seed already contains everything it needs to germinate. However, once the first real leaves appear, it is essential to begin gradually fertilizing, starting with low doses. For cuttings, vitamins, low concentration fertilizers and growth hormones are some of the tools we use to achieve close to 100% success rates. It is important to fully understand that cuttings do not have any roots through which to get the water and nutrients they need. In order to accelerate the germination or rooting of the seedlings, high humidity (80%) is required, as well as temperatures above 25°C (78°F). Once rooted, high doses of phosphorus are recommended to help the young roots develop. When growing in potting soil (PROMIX and SUNSHINE MIX), the procedure is practically the same as with hydroponics. Fertilizer has to be applied regularly (in lower doses than those recommended for hydroponics). However, there is an ecological and effective alternative to over-fertilization: mycorrhizae, which help plants to more easily assimilate the minerals in the soil in addition to strengthening their immune systems. However, it is essential that only fertilizer with less than 30% phosphorus be used. HGDi Technologies’ A + B formula is perfectly adequate in this regard.
* The unit for measuring the quantity of minerals dissolved varies depending on the type of instrument used. The measurements can be expressed in ppm (parts per million) or in EC (electrical conductivity), which are given as µS or mS (microSiemens or milliSiemens). Our consultants will provide you with the appropriate documentation on how to interpret the units used and the conversion factors when choosing between instruments for measuring conductivity.