Spinach is a great choice for hydroponics, but it has some specific requirements to thrive. Here's a plan to get started with growing spinach in The Fledge’s hydroponic system: --- ### **1. Choosing the Right Hydroponic System** Spinach does best in: - **Deep Water Culture (DWC)** – Roots are submerged in oxygenated nutrient water. - **Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)** – A continuous flow of nutrient solution feeds the roots. - **Kratky Method** – A passive system where roots sit in nutrient water without pumps. Since you already have hydroponics running, choose the system that best fits the setup. --- ### **2. Selecting the Right Variety** Look for **fast-growing, heat-resistant, and slow-bolting** spinach varieties, such as: - **Bloomsdale** (traditional, crinkled leaves) - **Space** (smooth-leaf, good for hydroponics) - **Red Kitten** (baby spinach, resistant to disease) - **Flamingo** (high yield, bolt-resistant) --- ### **3. Germination and Transplanting** - **Germination Temperature:** 55-65°F (spinach struggles above 75°F) - **Medium:** Rockwool cubes, peat plugs, or coconut coir. - **Soaking:** Soak seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting. - **Planting:** Place 2-3 seeds per rockwool cube, keep moist. - **Light:** Provide indirect light or place under a grow light for 14-16 hours/day. - **Transplanting:** Once seedlings have 2-3 true leaves (about 2 weeks), move them into the hydroponic system. --- ### **4. Nutrients and pH Levels** - **EC (Electrical Conductivity):** 1.8–2.3 mS/cm - **pH Range:** 5.8–6.5 - **Essential Nutrients:** - High nitrogen for leafy growth (Hydroponic Grow Formula) - Calcium & magnesium to prevent deficiencies (add Cal-Mag if needed) - Iron to prevent yellowing leaves - **Solution Temperature:** Keep nutrient water between **65-70°F** to avoid bolting. --- ### **5. Light & Temperature Needs** - **Light:** 12-16 hours/day under LED grow lights. - **Ideal Air Temperature:** 60-70°F (Avoid high heat to prevent early bolting). - **Humidity:** 50-70% (Use fans for air circulation). --- ### **6. Harvesting** - **Baby Spinach:** 3-4 weeks after planting. - **Full Grown Spinach:** 6-8 weeks. - **Harvesting Method:** Cut outer leaves first, allowing the plant to continue producing. --- ### **7. Potential Challenges & Solutions** - **Bolting (early flowering)** – Keep temperatures under 75°F. - **Yellow Leaves (Nutrient Deficiency)** – Adjust pH & add nitrogen or iron. - **Root Rot** – Ensure proper oxygenation & change the nutrient solution every 1-2 weeks. --- ### **Next Steps** - Do you have an available hydroponic system ready for spinach? - Would you like to start small (test batch) or grow at scale? - Do you need help sourcing seeds, nutrients, or equipment? Let me know, and we can refine the setup to fit The Fledge’s needs! 🚀🌱