Due to seedling production through hydroponics ,
sponge block is used.Normally, sponge is cut into 30cm x 30cm sizes. This sponge is cut into dot sizes with 2.5cm x 2.5cm sizes and 1cm cut is given at the middle of each square into which only one seed is sown.Before sowing of seeds, seeds should be treated with Calcium and Sodium hypochloride. After sowing of seeds, sponge is placed in a small tray. 5-8cm water is kept in this tray as it easily floats on water. After 2-3 days of seed germination 5-10ml nutrient solution is given one time and after 10-12days of seed germination, 10-12ml nutrient solution is given daily upto transplanting of seedlings.
The time of transplanting seedlings and pH value vary with species to species.e.g.
Crop name ------Seedling age (weeks)------------pH value
Tomato ------ 3-4 ----------- 5.5 -6.5
Lettuce ------ 2-3 ----------- 6.0-6.5
Capsicum ------ 4-5 ----------- 6.0-6.5
Strawberry ------ 2-3(stolon cutting)---------- 5.5-6.5
Cucumber ------ 2-3 ----------- 5.8-6.0
Cabbage ------ 4-5 ----------- 6.5-7.5
Now that you have the 5.5 pH water ready, put the rockwool cubes into a waterproof container. Pour the water into the container with the rockwool cubes. Make sure the cubes are completely immersed in the water.
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