Grow Succulents Anywhere Hydroponically

Disclosure: Your purchases through our links may earn us a small commission, supporting our site’s ability to provide valuable information to our readers. Rest assured, it won’t impact your price. Thank you for your support.


Do you love succulents but don’t have the greenest of thumbs? Or maybe you live in an apartment and don’t have any outdoor space for planting. No problem! You can grow succulents hydroponically using just a few simple tips. This blog post will teach you everything you need to know about hydroponically growing succulents. We will discuss the different types of hydroponic systems and the best ways to care for your succulents. Let’s get started!

What are succulents?

Succulents are a plant with thick, fleshy leaves or stems and are adapted to store water in arid environments. They are often found in desert regions, but they can also be grown in other areas with dry conditions. Succulents are popular as houseplants because they are easy to care for and require little watering. Some common types of succulents include aloe, cacti, and jade plants. Succulents come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and can be grown indoors and outdoors.

Why grow succulents hydroponically?

There are several reasons someone might grow succulents hydroponically rather than in soil. Some of the benefits of hydroponic gardening for succulents include the following:

Increased control: Hydroponic systems allow growers to control the nutrients, pH, and temperature of the growing environment, which can lead to faster growth and healthier plants

Related:
How to Measure EC, pH, DO, and Temperature in a Hydroponic System
13 Nutrients Required for Hydroponic Plants
Should You Use PH Test Strips or Digital PH Meters for Hydroponics
Does Grow Light Temperature Matter?

  1. Water conservation: Hydroponic growing systems use less water than soil-based systems because the water is circulated and reused rather than absorbed into the ground. This can be especially beneficial for succulents, adapted to dry conditions and do not require frequent watering.
  2. Pest control: Hydroponic systems are generally less prone to pests and diseases than soil-based systems, which can be a major advantage for succulents, which are often attacked by pests like mealybugs and aphids.
  3. Space savings: Hydroponic systems can be set up in small spaces, such as apartments or balconies, making them a good option for people who do not have access to a traditional garden.

    Related: Vertical Hydroponics: The Basics

Overall, hydroponic gardening can be a good choice for succulents because it allows growers to create a controlled and efficient growing environment that is well-suited to the needs of these plants.

What are the best types of hydroponic systems for succulents?

Several hydroponic systems can be used to grow succulents, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Some of the most common hydroponic systems for succulents include:

  1. Nutrient film technique (NFT): In an NFT system, a thin film of nutrient-rich water is continuously circulated over the roots of the plants, providing them with the necessary moisture and nutrients. Nutrient Film Technique hydroponic systems are relatively simple and inexpensive to set up. Still, they require precise control of the water flow and nutrient levels to prevent over- or under-watering.
    Check out NFT systems on Amazon.
  2. Deep water culture (DWC): In a DWC system, the plants are suspended in a nutrient-rich water solution. Oxygen is supplied to the roots through an air stone or other oxygenation system. DWC systems are relatively easy to set up and maintain. Still, they require frequent monitoring to ensure that the plants receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients.

    Check out DWC systems on Amazon.

  3. Aeroponics: In an aeroponic system, the plants are suspended in the air, and their roots are misted with a nutrient-rich solution. Aeroponic systems are more complex and expensive to set up than other hydroponic systems but can provide fast growth and high yields.

    Check out Aeroponics systems on Amazon.

  4. Wick system: In a wick system, the plants are grown in containers filled with a growing medium, and a wick connects the container to a nutrient-rich water solution. The wick system is a simple and inexpensive option for growing succulents hydroponically, but it may not provide the same level of control as more advanced systems.

    Check out Wick hydroponic systems on Amazon.

Ultimately, the best hydroponic system for growing succulents will depend on the grower’s goals, budget, and experience level. It may be helpful to research and compare different methods to determine the best fit for your needs.

How do you propagate succulents in a hydroponic system?

There are several methods for propagating succulents in a hydroponic system. The specific approach will depend on the succulent type and the available resources. Here are some general steps for propagating succulents hydroponically:

  1. Choose a healthy mother plant: Select a healthy, mature succulent with well-developed roots. This will be the plant from which you will propagate your new succulents.
  2. Cut a stem or leaf from the mother plant: Using a sharp, clean knife or scissors, cut a stem or leaf from the mother plant. If using a stem, it should be about 4-6 inches long and have a few leaves on it. If using a leaf, it should be a healthy, undamaged leaf that is not too old or too young.
  3. Allow the cutting to callus: Place the cutting in a dry, well-ventilated area and allow the cut end to callus, or form a protective layer, over the wound. This can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the type of succulent.
  4. Prepare the hydroponic system: Set up your hydroponic system according to the manufacturer’s instructions and fill it with the appropriate nutrient solution. The system should be well-aerated to provide the cuttings with sufficient oxygen.
  5. Plant the cuttings: Once the cuttings have callused, plant them in the hydroponic system using a rooting hormone to encourage root development. You can plant the cuttings directly in the nutrient solution or in a growing medium, such as perlite or coconut coir.
  6. Monitor and care for the cuttings: Keep them in a well-lit location and monitor the nutrient solution regularly to ensure that it is at the proper pH and nutrient levels. Water the cuttings as needed and mist the leaves to provide additional moisture.

With proper care, the cuttings should begin to root and grow into new succulents within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the type of succulent and the conditions in the hydroponic system.

How to care for succulents in a hydroponic system?

Succulents are relatively easy to care for in a hydroponic system. Still, a few key factors must be considered to ensure they thrive. Here are some tips for caring for succulents in a hydroponic system:

  1. Provide adequate light: Succulents need plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive, so it is important to provide them with plenty of light. If growing succulents indoors, place the hydroponic system in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. If growing succulents outdoors, choose a location with at least six hours of sunlight per day. Instead, you can use proper grow light with a proper distance to the plant.

    Related: Do Grow Light Colors Matter?

  2. Keep the nutrient solution at the proper pH and nutrient levels: It is important to monitor the pH and nutrient levels of the hydroponic system regularly to ensure that the plants get the nutrients they need. Succulents generally prefer a slightly acidic pH range of 6.0-6.5. The specific nutrient needs of the plants will depend on the type of succulent and the growth stage, so it may be helpful to consult with a gardening expert or refer to specific care instructions for the type of succulent you are growing.
  3. Water the plants as needed: Succulents do not need a lot of water, and it is essential to avoid over-watering them. Check the moisture level of the growing medium or nutrient solution regularly and water the plants as needed to keep them moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Monitor the temperature and humidity: Succulents prefer warm, dry conditions, so keeping the temperature and humidity in the hydroponic system within a suitable range is important. Avoid placing the system in areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity.

These care tips can help ensure that your succulents grow and thrive in a hydroponic system. It is also a good idea to consult with a gardening expert or refer to specific care instructions for the type of succulent you are growing to ensure that you are providing the plants with the best possible care.

How to troubleshoot common hydroponic succulent issues?

Hydroponic gardening can be a rewarding and efficient way to grow succulents, but it is not without its challenges. Here are some common issues that may arise when growing succulents hydroponically, along with some potential solutions:

  1. Over- or under-watering: Succulents are adapted to dry conditions and do not need a lot of water, so it is essential to avoid over-watering. Also, it is important to avoid under-watering, as this can lead to wilting and other problems. To prevent over- or under-watering, regularly monitor the moisture level of the growing medium or nutrient solution and water the plants as needed.
  2. Nutrient deficiencies: Succulents may show signs of nutrient deficiencies if they are not receiving the proper nutrients from the hydroponic system. To prevent nutrient deficiencies, it is crucial to monitor the nutrient levels in the system and adjust the nutrient solution as needed. If a deficiency is suspected, it may be helpful to consult with a gardening expert or refer to specific care instructions for the type of succulent you are growing.
  3. Pest infestations: Succulents are prone to pest infestations, especially when grown indoors. Common pests affecting succulents include mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects. To prevent or control pest infestations, it is essential to keep the plants well-maintained and to inspect them for signs of pests regularly. If a pest infestation is discovered, it may be necessary to use a pest control product or to remove the affected plants from the hydroponic system.
  4. Poor growth: Succulents may exhibit poor growth if they are not receiving sufficient light, nutrients, or water. It is crucial to provide the plants with the appropriate growing conditions and monitor their progress regularly to identify and address any issues affecting their growth.

Understanding and addressing these common issues can help ensure that your hydroponic succulent garden is healthy and thriving. If you are having difficulty troubleshooting a specific issue, consult with a gardening expert or refer to specific care instructions for the type of succulent you are growing.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, succulents are plants adapted to dry conditions and well-suited to hydroponic gardening. Several hydroponic systems can be used to grow succulents, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Propagating succulents in a hydroponic system involves cutting a stem or leaf from a healthy mother plant and allowing it to callus before planting it in the hydroponic system with a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Caring for succulents in a hydroponic system involves:

  • Providing the plants with adequate light.
  • Keeping the nutrient solution at the proper pH and nutrient levels.
  • Watering the plants as needed.
  • Monitoring the temperature and humidity.

Common issues when growing succulents hydroponically include over- or under-watering, nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and poor growth. Understanding and addressing these issues can help ensure that your hydroponic succulent garden is healthy and thriving.

Thank you for reading!

Also, read:
How to Grow Hydroponic Tomatoes for the Absolute Beginner?
Pros and Cons of Drip Hydroponic System

Similar Posts