General Hydroponics EuroGrower Module Questions & Answers
What is the best system for growing tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers?
These plants have longer growing periods and need enough space for adequate root development. Our best systems for these crops are the WaterFarm, PowerGrower, EuroGrower and the EcoGrower.
Can I turn my system off at night to conserve energy? Should I run it continuously or cycle it at intervals?
All GH systems can be left off at night once the plant roots are long enough to reach the nutrient level in the reservoir. Longer cycles depend on the type of system you have:
AeroFlo systems: The cycle can be set to run continuously during the day and coming on once or twice during the night on 15 to 30 minute intervals.
EuroGrower systems: Set the timer to come on for .5 hour/ off 1.5 hour during the daylight cycle once the plant has a good root system. These systems use coco peat which holds moisture and nutrients in the root zone.
WaterFarm, PowerGrower and EcoGrower systems: Set the timer to come on for 1 hour/ off 1 hour during the daylight cycle.
RainForest systems: These units are run continuously, especially if you are trying to root cuttings. If you are growing plants, they can be shut off in the evening once the roots have grown into the nutrient solution.
All General Hydroponics systems can be run 24 hours a day 7 days a week for optimal results, power conservation is the only reason to cycle watering.
How does the Dutch Pot system differ from the WaterFarm system?
Each WaterFarm, PowerGrower and EcoGrower can be used as a stand alone system, or several can be connected together. There is a growing chamber and a nutrient reservoir for each unit. They use an air pump to deliver nutrients and have expanded clay pebbles as the medium.
The Dutch Pot (EuroGrower) is a single chambered system which is drip fed by an in-line pump. Drainage from all units returns to a single reservoir. In the Dutch Pot, smaller grade media such as coco peat may be used without fear of particles entering the nutrient stream and clogging pumps.
How do I deal with algae build up in my hydroponic system?
The best method is prevention. If you keep the solution away from light, i.e. keep the lids closed and all openings sealed, you can prevent algae from growing.
If you already have algae in the system you can remove it with a brush, or use hydrogen peroxide (3ml of 3% H2O2 per gallon of solution) to remove it. If there are particles floating in the nutrient solution, be sure to flush the reservoir and growing chamber with ample water, and then start with a new batch of nutrient. If the problem is severe, make sure you have the algae completely flushed out to avoid the risk of clogging some of the flow lines in the system.
Are the plastic components used in General Hydroponics systems food grade safe?
Yes, all of GH plastic parts are food grade safe. No chemicals will leach into growing plants. The plastics are also UV stable under artificial lighting and natural lighting.
