Substrate & Plant Density Considerations

Optimizing Flower Site Density

Maximizing yield and quality in cultivation hinges on optimizing the number of flower sites per cubic foot above a minimum PPFD. This optimization requires a careful balance of plant size, spacing, and vegetation duration. The key principle is to flip to flower 21-28 days before the canopy reaches desired density, allowing plants to fill out during the stretch phase.

PLANT SPACING & SUBSTRATE VOLUME

Effective cultivation can be achieved through two contrasting approaches:

High Density (low volume) - 1 ft2 per plant - 7 day Veg - Ideal for compact, multi-tier rooms; Higher cloning quantities

Low Density (high volume) - 4 ft2 per plant - 28 day Veg - Suitable for single tier rooms with high PPFD; Lower plant quantities

The choice between these approaches depends on facility design, strain characteristics, and operational preferences.

Benefits Of Hydroponic Substrates

Hydroponic substrates like coco coir and rockwool offer significant advantages for cultivation, particularly in supporting effective crop steering techniques.

Coco coir provides excellent water retention and aeration with natural pH buffering capacity. It’s environmentally friendly and allows for frequent fertigation, supporting precise nutrient management.

Rockwool, being sterile and inert, reduces pest and disease risks. Its consistent structure ensures uniform water and nutrient distribution, enabling precise control over root zone conditions.

Both substrates allow for rapid adjustments to nutrient and irrigation programs, providing optimal root zone conditions. This flexibility is crucial for implementing effective crop steering strategies.

IDEAL SUBSTRATE DENSITY

The optimal substrate density for effective crop steering is between 20-30 L per m² of canopy. This range provides adequate support for plant growth while allowing for precise control over root zone conditions. Adhering to this density range enables growers to implement crop steering techniques effectively, balancing water retention, nutrient availability, and root development.

When selecting a substrate, consider its volume in relation to plant spacing and vegetation duration. Irrigation frequency and EC management should be adjusted to match the substrate volume and plant density. It’s crucial to ensure that the chosen substrate can support the desired plant size without leading to overcrowding.