Welcome to the world of hydroponic gardening, an innovative farming technique that ushers in a new era of agriculture devoid of soil and entirely based on water. Here, plants flourish via compact designs that save you valuable space without strenuous maintenance routines. This is quite an innovative approach to farming that epitomizes efficient plant cultivation. In addition, it’s impossible to ignore its relative affordability, as you can kick off your hydroponic journey with everyday items found around your house. However, a looming concern accompanies the charm of growing plants inside mason jars: algae. That’s where paint and aluminum foil make a surprising yet effective appearance. Incorporating one or both of these materials into your hydroponic setup shields your sprouts from aggressive algae advances by creating an impenetrable fortress that keeps direct sunlight off the jars. This will prevent the spread of algae, since it needs sunlight to grow just like any other plant.
Just as moths are to a flame, so is algae to a hydroponic setup. And it’s not a friendly partnership; algae bears a sinister agenda. Picture a parasite that relishes sunlight draining away the vitality from your hydroponic plants, resulting in pitiful malnourishment and suffocation. The scenario becomes nastier upon algae decomposition due to the toxins and the pungent smell released. And let’s not forget, an algae-infested jar is an eyesore. Keep your delicate root spouts brimming with thriving growth and free from malicious algae encounters with the help of paint and aluminum foil.
Applying paint and aluminum foil on hydroponic jars
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Our first knight in shining armor when transforming growing jars into algae-guarded fortresses is paint. But not just any paint; go for a light-blocking variety (ideally black) that you can quickly grab from your local home improvement store. Prep your growing jars by cleaning them with an isopropyl alcohol-moistened paper towel for flawless paint adherence. Then, give the jar a makeover with an evenly-applied layer of paint on the outside. Complete fortification may take more than one round, but always let each layer dry completely before moving onto the next. You could also cover the light-blocking black layer with a brighter hue for aesthetics. Alternatively, call on our understated hero: aluminum foil. Roll it out and cut strips large enough to wrap around your mason jar’s exterior. Secure the foil with tape and check for potential light gateways — you don’t want rips or cracks offering a secret passage where light could enter and incite an algae rave.
But the fight against algae doesn’t have to be a single-player game. Double up on your defenses by inviting both dark paint and aluminum foil to the party. And for the grand finale, infuse the nutrient solution with 3% hydrogen peroxide. This wonder agent pumps extra oxygen into the water, actively annihilating algae and other harmful bacteria off your hydroponic garden plants. Adding roughly 2 to 3 teaspoons per gallon of water should work wonders.
