Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my hydroponic plants if I travel for a few days?
Normally, if your nutrient solution level is sufficient and timers for pumps and lights are set properly, your plants can handle short trips (3–5 days). However, it’s a good idea to top up the water and check power supplies before leaving. You might also ask a friend to monitor things remotely if possible.
Why are my hydroponic plant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves often result from nutrient imbalance (like nitrogen deficiency), incorrect pH (too high or too low), high water temperature, or insufficient light. Start by testing your nutrient solution’s pH and EC, and then inspect the roots for health.
There’s green algae growing in my hydroponic water — what should I do?
Algae usually grow because light is hitting exposed water surfaces or pipes. Fix it by blocking light (cover reservoirs/wrap pipes), cleaning the system thoroughly, and replacing the water and nutrients.
Do I need to change the water every day?
No. Typically, nutrient solution should be replaced every 2–3 weeks. However, if the water becomes cloudy, smells bad, or EC/pH levels drift significantly, it’s best to change it sooner.
If there’s a power outage, will my hydroponic plants die quickly?
A short power outage (less than a few hours) isn’t a big problem. But outages over 6 hours can reduce oxygenation or stop pumps, which may harm roots. We recommend keeping a small backup UPS to keep pumps and lights running temporarily.
My hydroponic plants have long roots — will that affect growth?
No, long roots are a sign of healthy growth. Just make sure roots don’t clog pumps and pipes, and avoid keeping roots in stagnant, oxygen-poor water. You can trim old or dead roots occasionally.
Is there a fixed nutrient recipe, or does each plant need something different?
Different plants have different nutrient needs (for example, lettuce vs. tomatoes), but beginners can start with a general-purpose nutrient solution. You can fine-tune the recipe later depending on the plant type.
My balcony doesn’t get enough sunlight — can I grow using only LED lights?
Yes. Modern full-spectrum LED lights can fully replace sunlight, but make sure to provide 12–16 hours of light per day and choose lights with suitable intensity for vegetables.
Is it really safe to eat hydroponic vegetables raw?
Yes, hydroponic vegetables are usually cleaner since they don’t contact soil or pesticides. However, it’s still recommended to rinse them before eating, especially to avoid contamination from the reservoir.
Does a hydroponic system consume a lot of electricity? Will my electric bill be high?
For small home hydroponic systems (small towers/pipes + LED lights), monthly electricity usage is about 20–50 kWh — similar to running a few extra lamps or an aquarium. With efficient use, costs stay reasonable.