Discover The 7 Best Hydroponics Flowers To Grow
Hydroponic flowers are easy to grow and can add beauty and life to any space. What’s fantastic about them is that you don’t have to worry about where to obtain soil or to maintain a certain soil balance!
As you know, plants usually obtain nutrients from the soil. To grow, plants need micronutrients (like sodium, zinc, and iron) and macronutrients (like phosphorus, carbon, and nitrogen), all present in the soil but not in water.
Notwithstanding, water is still essential for plants. It helps to transport nutrients from the soil and aids various biochemical reactions such as chlorophyll and photosynthesis. Thus, a plant turns yellow, dries up, and eventually dies without water.
So, do plants need soil to survive, or can they grow in water alone? The simple answer is yes, through hydroponics. The term hydroponics means ”working water”, and is derived from the Latin words hydro, meaning “water”, and ponos, meaning work.
Why Grow Flowers In Hydroponics?
You should grow flowers in hydroponics because it has many benefits over alternative methods. A flower with roots in soil works harder to extract nutrients and uses a lot of energy. In hydroponics, that energy may be used for other purposes, such as growing bigger flowers and leaves in a shorter period.
Also, hydroponics allows you to grow flowers in a more controlled environment, providing them with the exact amount of nutrition they need to thrive while combating pests and diseases. What’s more, it works in areas without soil and those that are not arable.
What Flowers Can Be Grown Hydroponically?
The 7 best flowers that can be grown hydroponically include:
- Amaryllis
- Hydroponic Orchids
- Carnations
- Dahlias
- Hydroponic Tulips
- Snapdragons
- Zinnia
1. Amaryllis
Amaryllis love to have “wet feet”, making them the ideal hydroponic flowers. Growing amaryllis hydroponically will allow them to grow massive flowers and big bulbs that are sure to add beauty to your space. However, these bulb flowers do not like a lot of nitrogen. So, it’s an excellent idea to ensure that the nutrient mix doesn’t contain too much nitrogen.
For the best results growing amaryllis hydroponically:
- Ensure the flower gets at least four hours of sunlight daily.
- Keep the temperature between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during root formation and growth of the flower stalk and leaves, and 65 degrees Fahrenheit afterward.
- Maintain a pH level of between 6.0 and 6.5.
2. Hydroponic Orchids
Many people would agree that hydroponic orchids are some of the most beautiful flowers in the world, owing to their colorful blooms, pleasant scent, and woody-thick roots. They are used in the spice, medicine, and perfume industries. However, because their seeds don’t contain endosperm, it may take up to 15 years for orchid seeds to germinate. On the brighter side, orchid flowers can survive for six months.
For the best results in growing hydroponic orchids:
- Use a 400w metal halide or high-pressure sodium bulb.
- Keep the temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Ensure the pH level is between 5.5 and 6.5.
3. Carnations
Carnations are native to the Mediterranean region and are very popular worldwide. They have a unique aroma that instantly makes a room feel inviting. Their leaves are also sweet to the taste and edible. Many people love having carnations as indoor decoration, making them an excellent option for anyone who wants to grow hydroponic flowers commercially.
For the best results growing carnations hydroponically:
- Ensure they get five to eight hours of sunlight every day.
- Maintain a temperature of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep the water pH level at approximately 6.0.
4. Dahlias
These hydroponic flowers are closely related to chrysanthemums, zinnia, daisies, and sunflowers. When growing dahlias hydroponically, you’ll require significant lateral space since they grow twice as tall as they do wide. You’ll also need to remember that dahlias are thirsty feeders and love to have lots of sunlight.
For the best results growing dahlias hydroponically:
- Ensure the hydroponic flowers receive at least eight hours of sunlight every day.
- Keep the temperature between 60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Maintain a pH level of between 6.5 and 7.5.
5. Hydroponic Tulips
Hydroponic tulips are just as stunning as regular tulips, but different. They have a longer lifespan, are easy to maintain, and their bulb is still intact. They can spread between 12 to 24 inches wide and grow six to 24 inches tall.
For the best results growing hydroponic tulips hydroponically:
- Ensure the hydroponic flowers are placed somewhere with natural light but away from direct sunlight.
- Maintain moderate temperatures of between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep the pH level between 5.0 and 7.0
6. Snapdragons
Snapdragons are native to North America and Europe. They are popular because of their flowers that look like a dragon’s mouth when pressed and their vibrant hues. Generally, these hydroponic flowers can grow between six to 48 inches tall, depending on the growing conditions and variety.
For the best results growing snapdragons hydroponically:
- Provide adequate watering, but dry the growing medium between cycles.
- Ensure the flower gets full sunlight mostly, and a shade occasionally.
- Maintain a pH level of between 6.2 and 7.0.
7. Zinnia
Zinnia is part of the daisy family and likes to have lots of sunlight. They are native to South America and the Southwestern United States and can grow four to 40 inches tall. When growing these colorful hydroponic flowers, you will need a strong growing medium to support the roots as they can grow very big. The more compact varieties of zinnia are more suitable for a hydroponic garden.
For the best results growing zinnia hydroponically:
- Ensure they receive at least six hours of sunlight daily.
- Keep the temperature between 74 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Maintain a pH level of between 5.5 and 7.5.
Final Thoughts
There are several benefits of growing hydroponically over traditional soil growing. If you consider growing hydroponic flowers, the seven options mentioned above are the most excellent flowers to start with. However, always remember to maintain the optimum environment to get the best results with your hydroponic flowers.
