Algae & Nutrient Buildup

Although Algae and Nutrient Buildup are naturally occurring, we must maintain these within a controlled environment. 

Algae Buildup

This occurs in nutrient-rich environments with exposure to light, and too much water. Algae in the water can have negative effects on your plants. When algae spores grow in the water, they can compete with your plants for nutrients and oxygen. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies in your plants and hinder their growth. Additionally, algae can clog up your pump and irrigation system, causing water flow issues. 

To avoid algae in your hydroponic garden, there are a few steps you can take:

• Control light exposure: Algae needs light to grow, so it's important to minimize light exposure to your water and plant pods. Covering any unused openings with our hole covers.

• Maintain proper nutrient levels: Algae thrive on excess nutrients in the water. Make sure you are adding the correct amount of nutrients to your system according to the instructions provided. Avoid overfeeding your plants, as this can lead to nutrient buildup and promote algae growth.

• Monitor water quality: Algae spores can float in the air and attach to objects when conditions are right. Using clean, filtered water can help reduce the presence of algae spores in your system.

Nutrient buildup 

The solid, flakey substance that you're seeing is nutrient buildup. Build-up occurs when nutrients clump together and create solids, which the plants cannot consume. It's not harmful, but it means that your plants won't be able to consume all of the nutrients that you're feeding them that week. 

To avoid the least amount of Nutrient Buildup we recommend you follow the steps below:

• Choose a good water source: If you have hard water (lots of calcium and magnesium) it will increase nutrient buildup. Ensure that you are correctly adding your nutrients as this will significantly reduce your chances of nutrient buildup.

• Wait in between adding nutrients: Wait 15 minutes for a Family/Rise Garden before adding more nutrients and 5 minutes for a Personal Garden. This way, your Garden can circulate the nutrients, which will keep them from clumping together.

• Add water in between nutrients: Ensure that you add the instructed amount of water by the app. If you add all of your nutrients at once, the nutrients could clump together and build up in the plumbing of your Garden over time.

In addition, to the steps indicated above, we strongly recommend that you empty the system of all plants and water, and use an all-natural cleaning agent. Your pump and tubing should be cleaned every month to limit buildup. In addition, perform a Deep Clean when instructed by the app every 6 months. Below, you can find our garden cleaning guides: 

• Personal Garden: HERE. 

• V1 Family Rise Garden Cleaning Guide: HERE

• V2 Rise Garden Cleaning Guide:  HERE.