Hydroponic Growing Mediums & Hydroponic Substrates

Support your plant's growth with our leading range of hydroponic mediums and substrates

The growing medium is the support system for your plant roots, so the right medium is a must-have for your hydroponic system. 

At Hydrocentre Hydroponics, we’ve got everything you need to keep your system healthy and your plants flourishing. Whether you’re a hydroponics expert or just getting started with your first kit or system, we’re here to help. Browse our range of hydroponic growing mediums or contact us online for tips, tricks and expert advice. Order now! 

Our guide to hydroponic mediums

Hydroponic growing mediums are the backbone of any healthy hydroponic system, providing stability and facilitating nutrient absorption. They also help maintain the optimal balance of air and water, promoting healthy root development.

Different growing mediums offer varying levels of water retention, aeration and nutrient availability. The right growing medium is crucial, as it directly affects the growth and yield of your plants. 

So, which type of hydroponic growing medium is right for your plants? 

Coco Coir

Coco coir is a sustainable and renewable growing medium derived from coconut husks. It has excellent water retention and aeration properties, allowing optimal root development. Coco coir is pH stable and can be used as a standalone medium or mixed with other materials.

Our most popular media is Coco Perlite, a 70:30 mix of coconut coir and coarse perlite.

Perlite

Perlite is a lightweight volcanic glass that is expanded by heating. It provides good aeration and drainage, ensuring sufficient oxygen supply to the roots. Perlite is commonly used as part of a growing medium mix to improve its structure and water-holding capacity.

Vermiculite

Vermiculite is a natural mineral that expands when heated. It has a high water retention capacity, promoting moisture availability to the roots. Vermiculite provides good aeration but is often combined with other mediums due to its limited drainage capabilities.

Peat Moss / Terra

Peat moss is a common soilless medium made from partially decomposed plant material. It has excellent water retention properties and good aeration. Peat moss is lightweight and helps maintain a slightly acidic pH, making it suitable for acid-loving plants while generally not requiring daily irrigation. CANNA Terra is also a good source of peat. 

Clay

Expanded clay pellets are lightweight and porous. Sometimes called “clay pebbles,” they provide good drainage and aeration, allowing oxygen to reach the roots. Expanded clay pellets are reusable and pH-neutral, making them suitable for various hydroponic systems. They’re also very useful for recirculating systems using a pump, either by drip or trickle irrigation or by flood and drain. We recommend irrigating for 15 minutes every 2 hours. 

Still not sure which hydroponic medium is right for your system? Contact our team for expert advice on all things hydroponics! We’ll help you find the right medium for a healthy, flourishing system. 

Rockwool

Rockwool is a popular hydroponic growing medium made from molten rock spun into fibres. It has excellent water retention capabilities and provides good aeration for roots. Rockwool is available in cubes. 

How to choose the right hydroponic grow medium for your plants

Different plant species have varying preferences when it comes to growing mediums. Leafy greens and herbs typically do well in lightweight, well-aerated mediums, while fruiting plants may require a medium with higher water retention. 

Some mediums require more frequent irrigation, while others need additional nutrient supplementation. 

Hydroponic systems have varying requirements for growing mediums. For example, ebb and flow systems often use mediums with good water retention, while deep water culture (DWC) systems benefit from lightweight mediums that facilitate oxygenation. Ensure the chosen medium is compatible with your hydroponic system to get the best possible plant growth. 

If you’re just getting started on your hydroponics journey, chat with our team or visit us in-store. Our entire team is passionate about turning newcomers into expert hydroponic growers. Get in touch today to find the right hydroponic growing media for your system. 

Tips to manage your growing mediums

Proper management of growing mediums is essential for the health and success of your hydroponic system. Here are some simple tips to maintain your growing mediums over time:

• Moisture levels and pH balance — Maintain proper moisture levels and pH balance in the growing medium. Regular monitoring and adjustments are necessary to ensure the medium retains adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged. Monitoring and adjusting the pH levels of the medium is crucial to provide the optimal nutrient uptake range for the plants.

• Structure and health — Regular maintenance of the growing medium helps ensure its structural integrity and health. Periodically fluff or turn the medium to prevent compaction and improve aeration. Remove dead plant material or debris from the medium to prevent harmful bacteria, fungi buildup or algae growth in your system.

• Recycling mediums sustainably — Some growing mediums can be reused or recycled to create a more sustainable hydroponic system. Properly clean the medium after each use to prevent the spread of diseases and ensure a fresh start for new crops. Always remove dead roots before reusing any growing media. Explore options for recycling or composting spent growing mediums to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

With the right growing medium and proper management, you can enjoy the benefits of hydroponic gardening and produce healthy, thriving plants. Remember to consider the specific needs of your plants, the requirements of your hydroponic system, and factors such as cost, availability and sustainability when choosing a medium. 

For more advice on managing your hydroponic growing mediums, visit us in-store or contact us online today. 

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