The ability of plants to take up nutrients from the nutrient solution is also effected by temperature. The ideal temperature of the nutrient solution is around 20°C, which is tepid (slightly cooler than luke warm), although temperatures within a range of 15 — 30°C are acceptable.

It should also be noted that temperature will have an effect on the conductivity reading. To ensure that the conductivity level is correct you should aim to maintain the temperature as near as 20°C as possible.

HIGH NUTRIENT SOLUTION TEMPERATURES

If the temperature of the nutrient solution goes above 30°C then your plant will start to have trouble

functioning. This is a difficult problem to deal with, as there is no effective method of cooling down a nutrient solution.

In the first instance, the temperature of the grow-room should be reduced, as this is probably the cause of the problem.

To counteract the effects of increased transpiration, the nutrient solution should be reduced to half strength, and the reservoir kept as topped up as possible.

LOW NUTRIENT SOLUTION TEMPERATURES

If the roots get too cold (below 15°C), then it will experience difficulties in absorbing nutrients.

The temperature of the nutrient solution can be increased by using a tank heater click here for more information. These are the same as those used in aquariums. They are submerged into the nutrient solution and will maintain the temperature above a pre-set minimum level.

If you experience problems with the temperature of the nutrient solution, this is probably because the environment is either too hot or cold. Make sure you alter the environmental temperature appropriately so that the problem does not recur.