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Hydroponic Cilantro / Coriander

Hydroponic Cilantro / Coriander

From Seed to Flavourful Harvest

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a popular herb in hydroponic systems, prized for its distinctive flavour and quick growth. This guide will take you through the process of cultivating Hydroponic Cilantro in a soilless environment.

Seed Germination

  • Soak cilantro seeds for 24 hours to improve germination rates.
  • Use biodegradable seed starter plugs or rockwool cubes as a growing medium.
  • Maintain temperature around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination.
  • Expect seedlings to emerge in 7-10 days.

Seedling Care

  • Provide 14-16 hours of grow lights daily for healthy seedling development.
  • Keep humidity levels around 50-60% to prevent damping off.
  • Begin feeding with a dilute nutrient solution when true leaves appear.
  • Purchase quality seeds here

Transplanting to Hydroponic System

Nutrient Solution Management

  • Use a balanced hydroponic fertilizer with an EC of 1.0-1.4 mS/cm.
  • Maintain pH between 5.8-6.3 for optimal nutrient uptake.
  • Change the nutrient solution weekly to ensure fresh nutrients.

Popular Grow Tent Sizes and Their Applications

Grow tents come in various dimensions to suit different needs:

  1. 24x24x60: Perfect for 4-6 medium-sized plants or multiple smaller varieties
  2. 24x48x60inch: Suitable for 6-8 plants, depending on size and growing method
  3. 33x33x72inch: Great for larger crops or mixed plant varieties
  4. 48x48x10inch: Commercial-grade size for serious home growers or small-scale operations

Remember, height is crucial. Most plants need at least 5-6 feet of vertical space for optimal growth and equipment placement.

Light and Environmental Control

  • Provide 12-14 hours of light using LED grow lights or fluorescent lamps.
  • Keep temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for best growth.
  • Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and bolting.

Pruning and Harvesting

  • Begin harvesting when plants reach 6 inches tall.
  • Cut outer leaves first, leaving the centre to continue growing.
  • Harvest up to 1/3 of the plant at a time for continuous production.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Monitor for common hydroponic pests like aphids and whiteflies.
  • Maintain proper spacing and air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.
  • Consider using neem oil or insecticidal soap for organic pest control.

Preventing Bolting

  • Keep temperatures cool to delay bolting (flowering).
  • Harvest regularly to encourage leafy growth over seed production.
  • Consider succession planting for a continuous cilantro supply.

Flavour Enhancement

  • Slightly reduce nutrient strength before harvest to intensify flavour.
  • Harvest in the morning when essential oils are most concentrated.

Seed Saving

  • Allow some plants to bolt for coriander seed production.
  • Harvest seeds when they turn brown and easily fall off the plant.

Hydroponic System Maintenance

  • Clean and sterilize your hydroponic system between crop cycles.
  • Use hydrogen peroxide to keep the root zone oxygenated and disease-free.

Companion Planting in Hydroponics

  • Grow cilantro alongside lettuce or spinach for efficient space utilization.
  • Avoid planting near fennel, which may inhibit cilantro growth.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow fresh, flavourful cilantro in your hydroponic garden year-round. Remember, cilantro has a relatively short life cycle, so continuous planting is key to maintaining a steady supply.

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