NUTRIENT SOLUTION CALCULATIONS

*Mineral nutrients are available in several forms:

1. Pre-mixed liquid concentrates that are then diluted with water.“A” and “B” formulas that when mixed have all essential elements.
2. Pre-mixed powder concentrates that are then diluted with water.Many are a teaspoon per gallon mixes – fairly simple. NOTE: DO NOT USE Miracle Gro – This is meant for soil culture and does not have all the essential elements for hydroponic use. Many commercial growers buy the individual compounds and mix the nutrient solution themselves. See my Oct 2007 post - Where to get Fertigation/Hydroponic fertilizer for a list of the compounds required (other compounds can be substituted) and the other post - Basic Needs For Fertigation 4, Hydroponic Fertilizer for the basic principal on this topic

Type Of Hydroponic's Basic Nutrient Elements :

• Macroelements (or macronutrients) are usually purchased in 50 lb bags. These are called horticulture grade.These need to be in a soluble form.
  
• Microelements (needed in much smaller amounts) can be purchased as 1) Pre-mixed powders: specific for hydroponics. 2) Individual compounds: at least horticultural grade, but can be technical or reagent grade and need to be soluble.

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PRECAUTIONS: Note above the “A” and “B” formulas…
There is a reason…
Usually, the calcium containing compounds are kept separate from the phosphate and sulfate compounds. Why? In high concentration the calcium will combine with the phosphates and sulfates to form insoluble precipitates.
THEREFORE:
A typical nutrient solution will be divided into 3 tanks:
Calcium/iron tank (iron gives it a reddish color)
Macro/Micro tank (all other macro and micro elements)
Acid tank (kept separate so pH can be adjusted individually).