Setting Up Hydroponick’s DWC System for Arugula: A Beginner’s Guide
Hydroponic gardening has become a fantastic way to grow fresh, healthy greens all year round, and arugula is one of the best leafy greens to grow in a Deep Water Culture (DWC) system. Known for its peppery flavor and nutrient-rich leaves, arugula is a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Using Hydroponick’s DWC system, even beginners can cultivate a steady supply of this versatile green from the comfort of their home. This guide will walk you through each step, from setting up your system to ensuring a healthy, continuous harvest of arugula.
Why Choose Arugula for a Hydroponic System?
Arugula (also known as rocket) is well-suited for hydroponic gardening because of its fast growth rate and relatively low nutrient needs compared to other plants. It also grows best in cooler temperatures, making it perfect for indoor setups where you can control the environment. With Hydroponick’s DWC system, arugula’s roots have continuous access to nutrient-rich, oxygenated water, helping the plant grow faster and healthier than in soil.
Getting Started: Setting Up Hydroponick’s DWC System
Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps to set up Hydroponick’s DWC system for arugula:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have the following equipment and materials:
Hydroponick’s DWC System: This setup includes a reservoir, net pots, an air pump, and air stones to keep water oxygenated, which is essential for healthy root growth.
Grow Lights: Arugula needs 10-14 hours of light per day. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and perfect for indoor hydroponics.
Nutrient Solution: Arugula requires a balanced hydroponic nutrient mix. Look for a solution with a slight emphasis on nitrogen for leafy growth.
pH Testing Kit: Keeping the pH between 5.5 and 6.5 will help arugula absorb nutrients efficiently.
Growing Medium: Rock wool or clay pellets work well to support the plant while allowing water to reach the roots.
Arugula Seeds: Choose high-quality seeds for the best results.
2. Prepare the Growing Medium and Seeds
To start, soak your chosen growing medium (such as rock wool cubes) in water to ensure it is fully hydrated. Place 2-3 arugula seeds in each cube and gently press them down. Then, place the cubes in a dark, warm area until the seeds germinate, usually within 3-5 days. Once you see sprouts, move the cubes to the net pots in your Hydroponick’s DWC system.
3. Setting Up the DWC System
Fill the Reservoir: Add water to the reservoir and mix in the hydroponic nutrient solution according to the package instructions. Ensure that you’re using the correct concentration for leafy greens like arugula.
Check the pH Level: Use your pH testing kit to confirm that the water’s pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. Adjust it if necessary using pH up or down solutions.
Insert the Net Pots: Place the net pots with the rock wool and seedlings into the designated holes in the DWC lid. Make sure the bottom of each net pot is submerged slightly in the nutrient solution to allow the roots to access the water.
Set Up the Air Pump: Connect the air pump to the air stones and place the stones at the bottom of the reservoir. Turn on the pump to start oxygenating the water, which will prevent root rot and encourage healthy growth.
4. Provide the Right Lighting
Arugula needs consistent light to grow well, especially in indoor settings. Position the LED grow lights about 12-18 inches above the seedlings and set a timer for 10-14 hours of light daily. Arugula is a cool-weather plant, so if possible, maintain a temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) around the plants. Avoid overheating, as too much warmth can lead to bitter leaves.
5. Maintain Optimal Nutrient and pH Levels
In hydroponics, monitoring the nutrient and pH levels is essential for plant health. Here’s how to ensure your arugula is getting what it needs:
Nutrient Solution: Replenish the nutrient solution every two weeks or as needed. Check the water level frequently, especially as the plants grow and consume more.
pH Level: Test the pH level of the water every few days. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for nutrient absorption. Adjust if necessary to avoid nutrient lockout, which happens when pH levels are too high or low for the plant to absorb nutrients effectively.
6. Regularly Check and Prune Your Arugula
Once your arugula reaches about 3-4 inches tall, you can start harvesting. Trim the outer leaves first, cutting them close to the base. This “cut-and-come-again” method allows the inner leaves to keep growing, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh greens. Be careful not to harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and slow down regrowth.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Growing arugula in Hydroponick’s DWC system is usually straightforward, but here are a few common issues to watch for:
Yellowing Leaves: This often indicates a nutrient deficiency, usually nitrogen. Adjust your nutrient mix if you notice yellowing.
Root Rot: If you see brown or slimy roots, this could be due to insufficient oxygen. Ensure the air pump and stones are working correctly to keep the water well-aerated.
Bitter Taste: Arugula leaves can turn bitter if exposed to high temperatures or too much direct light. Try lowering the light intensity or adjusting the temperature to stay within the ideal range.
Benefits of Growing Arugula in Hydroponick’s DWC System
Growing arugula in a DWC system offers many advantages:
Faster Growth: Hydroponics provides arugula with direct access to nutrients, speeding up growth compared to traditional soil gardening.
Year-Round Harvest: With a hydroponic setup indoors, you can enjoy fresh arugula regardless of the season.
Better Flavor and Nutritional Value: Controlled nutrient intake and stable conditions result in nutrient-dense, flavorful leaves.
Reduced Pest Issues: Growing indoors reduces exposure to common outdoor pests, making it easier to keep your plants healthy.
Enjoy Your Fresh Hydroponic Arugula
With Hydroponick’s DWC system, you’ll have a steady supply of fresh arugula to enjoy in your favorite dishes, from salads to pizzas and pasta. Not only is hydroponic arugula quick and easy to grow, but it’s also a nutrient-rich addition to your diet. By following these steps and maintaining optimal conditions, you’ll have an endless supply of peppery, flavorful arugula at your fingertips.
Whether you’re new to hydroponics or just looking to expand your indoor herb garden, arugula is a rewarding choice. Give it a try, and let the freshness of homegrown greens transform your meals! For more tips and support, the Hydroponick community is here to help you grow and enjoy your indoor vegetable garden to the fullest. Happy gardening!
