The Guide to Substrates and Nutrients
After optimizing light and climate, let's look at where the power comes from: the root system. Choosing the right substrate and precise nutrient application are the foundations for vigorous plants and a bountiful CanG harvest. We'll show you how to best care for your plants in your home grow.
The most important substrates compared
1. Soil: The Classic
Soil is particularly popular with beginners because it is forgiving. It buffers the pH value and stores nutrients. Many grow soils are pre-fertilized for 2-4 weeks.
2. Coco Coir: The Airy Alternative
Coco offers excellent root aeration while retaining water. Since it contains almost no nutrients of its own, you have full control over fertilization from day 1.
3. Hydroponics: High-End for Professionals
Here, roots grow directly in a nutrient solution or neutral media (clay pebbles). This enables extremely fast growth but requires precise control of pH and EC values.
The NPK Power: What Your Plant Needs
You'll find NPK values on almost every fertilizer bottle. Here's what they mean:
- 🧪 N (Nitrogen): The engine for growth (leaves & stems).
- 🧪 P (Phosphorus): Crucial for roots and flower formation.
- 🧪 K (Potassium): Ensures resilience and regulates water balance.
The golden rule: Less is more!
"Start low and go slow". Always start with a lower dose than recommended by the manufacturer. Observe the leaf tips: If they turn yellow or brown, you have over-fertilized!
Nutrient requirements by phase
- Vegetative phase: High nitrogen requirement (N) to build a strong structure.
- Flowering phase: Focus on phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) to develop heavy and resinous buds.
The best harvest starts with the right seeds!
No matter which substrate you choose – strong genetics are the foundation for nutrient uptake.
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Do you have questions about the perfect fertilization schedule or your EC value? Exchange ideas with experts:
Legal notice: Growing up to 3 plants is legal in Germany (CanG). Use high-quality substrates and fertilizers for a clean end product. Happy Growing!