Hydroponics is a soilless gardening method that relies on nutrient-rich water to grow plants. General Hydroponics (GH) is one of the most trusted brands for hydroponic nutrients, offering a wide range of products to ensure optimal plant growth, high yields, and healthy root development.
In this guide, we’ll cover how General Hydroponics nutrients work, the best nutrient solutions for different plant stages, and expert tips for maximizing your hydroponic setup.
Why Use General Hydroponics Nutrients?
General Hydroponics nutrients are designed to:
✔ Provide balanced macronutrients and micronutrients
✔ Support different growth stages (vegetative, flowering, and fruiting)
✔ Work well with different hydroponic systems (DWC, NFT, ebb and flow, etc.)
✔ Maintain pH stability for better nutrient absorption
Best General Hydroponics Nutrients for Hydroponic Plants
General Hydroponics offers a variety of liquid and dry nutrient formulas. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Flora Series (3-Part Nutrient System) – Best for All Growth Stages
The Flora Series is GH’s most popular 3-part nutrient system, which includes:
- FloraGro – High in nitrogen; promotes leafy, vegetative growth
- FloraBloom – Provides phosphorus & potassium for flowering and fruiting
- FloraMicro – Contains essential micronutrients for overall plant health
✔ How to Use:
- Mix all three in different ratios depending on the plant’s growth stage.
- Ideal for leafy greens, herbs, and fruiting plants.
- Works in any hydroponic system.
2. General Hydroponics Maxi Series (2-Part Dry Nutrients) – Best for Beginners
For those looking for a simple, cost-effective solution, the Maxi Series includes:
- MaxiGro – For early vegetative growth
- MaxiBloom – For flowering and fruiting
✔ How to Use:
- Use MaxiGro during the vegetative phase.
- Switch to MaxiBloom when flowering starts.
- Works in both hydroponic and soil systems.
3. General Hydroponics FloraNova Series – Best for Heavy Feeding Plants
The FloraNova Series is a 2-part liquid nutrient system, known for its high concentration.
- FloraNova Grow – For strong vegetative growth
- FloraNova Bloom – For fruit and flower production
✔ Best for:
- High-yield crops like tomatoes, peppers, and cannabis
- Growers looking for a strong, single-bottle formula
4. General Hydroponics CALiMAGic – Best for Preventing Calcium & Magnesium Deficiency
CALiMAGic is a calcium-magnesium supplement that helps prevent nutrient deficiencies like:
- Blossom-end rot in tomatoes & peppers
- Yellowing leaves from magnesium deficiency
- Weak stems and slow growth
✔ When to Use: Add to your nutrient mix if your plants show calcium or magnesium deficiencies.
5. General Hydroponics RapidStart – Best for Strong Root Development
RapidStart is a root enhancer that helps plants develop strong, healthy root systems for better nutrient uptake.
✔ Best for:
- New seedlings and clones
- Plants struggling with root growth issues
✔ How to Use: Mix with regular nutrient solution early in plant growth.
How to Mix General Hydroponics Nutrients (Step-by-Step Guide)
1️⃣ Start with clean water – Use reverse osmosis (RO) water for the best results.
2️⃣ Check pH levels – Ideal hydroponic pH ranges from 5.5 to 6.5.
3️⃣ Add nutrients in order:
- FloraMicro first (if using the Flora Series)
- FloraGro or FloraNova Grow for vegetative growth
- FloraBloom or FloraNova Bloom for flowering
4️⃣ Mix well between each addition – To prevent nutrient lockout.
5️⃣ Adjust pH if necessary – Use pH Up or pH Down to keep pH in the correct range.
General Hydroponics Nutrient Feeding Schedule
Basic Feeding Chart for General Hydroponics Flora Series
Growth Stage | FloraGro | FloraBloom | FloraMicro | EC (ppm) | pH Range |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Seedlings | 2.5 mL/gal | 1 mL/gal | 2.5 mL/gal | 400-600 | 5.5-6.0 |
Vegetative | 5 mL/gal | 2.5 mL/gal | 5 mL/gal | 800-1200 | 5.5-6.5 |
Early Flowering | 2.5 mL/gal | 5 mL/gal | 5 mL/gal | 1200-1500 | 5.5-6.5 |
Full Bloom | 1 mL/gal | 10 mL/gal | 5 mL/gal | 1500-2000 | 5.5-6.5 |
✔ Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust based on your plant’s needs.
Tips for Using General Hydroponics Nutrients
✔ Monitor EC and PPM Levels – Too much or too little nutrients can affect plant health.
✔ Adjust pH Regularly – Keep it in the optimal range (5.5-6.5) for nutrient absorption.
✔ Flush the System – Every 1-2 weeks, flush with plain water to prevent salt buildup.
✔ Store Nutrients Properly – Keep in a cool, dark place to extend shelf life.
✔ Experiment with Ratios – Different plants may need different nutrient strengths.
Common Problems & How to Fix Them
🚨 Yellowing Leaves? → Could be nitrogen deficiency. Increase FloraGro or MaxiGro.
🚨 Brown Leaf Tips? → Sign of nutrient burn. Dilute solution or flush system.
🚨 Slow Growth? → Check pH and EC levels. Adjust nutrients accordingly.
🚨 Root Rot? → Use RapidStart and keep roots well-oxygenated.
Final Thoughts
General Hydroponics offers high-quality, easy-to-use nutrient solutions for hydroponic gardening. Whether you’re growing lettuce, herbs, tomatoes, or cannabis, their Flora Series, Maxi Series, and FloraNova formulas provide balanced nutrition for strong, healthy plants.
By following proper feeding schedules, monitoring pH and EC levels, and using supplements like CALiMAGic and RapidStart, you can maximize your hydroponic yields and keep your plants thriving!
💡 Start with a simple 3-part nutrient system (Flora Series or Maxi Series) and adjust based on your plant’s needs.
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