Page 19 - Griffin Gazette - March 2025
P. 19

STEP 2: KNOW YOUR NEEDS & KNOW YOUR OPTIONS
Once we know what’s in your water and what system we have to work with in
delivering nutrition, we then want to know the desired nutrient targets (i.e., ppm
per nutrient) based on your needs, crop genetics, and production environment.
When in doubt, we’re happy to offer baseline fertilizer targets informed by years of
experience, research, and grower feedback. Producing a fertilizer program involves
an understanding of chemistry. Essentially, the vast majority of our nutrient inputs or
“salts” come from fertilizer “straights”. You can generally find this information in the
“Derived From” statement below the fertilizer label’s Guaranteed Analysis. Calcium
nitrate, potassium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate (MKP), and magnesium sulfate
(Epsom salts) are common straights heavily relied upon as sources of primary and
secondary nutrients. Understanding the fertilizer straights on the market allows us
to mix and match these tools with other bagged nutrients to reach desired nutrient
targets. Over the past several years, both cannabis and edible hydroponic production
has transitioned to more simplified programs that rely on two primary components
for majority of their macros and micronutrients (e.g., Jack’s Part A 5-12-26 and Jack’s
Part B 15-0-0) coupled with one or two straights to boost particular nutrients. We
leverage all available fertilizer tools, our knowledge of solubility rules, and theoretical
calculations to develop simple, repeatable, and cost-effective fertilizer programs
tailored to your specific system.

STEP 3: KEEP STRIVING FOR IMPROVEMENT
Success in plant nutrition isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s an ongoing process
of refinement. Growers should consistently measure success by tracking key data
points such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and tissue test results to ensure their
fertilizer program is delivering optimal results. Allocating time, space, and labor for
trialing new fertilizer recipes or plant stimulants can help uncover opportunities for
better growth, quality, and cost savings. Proactively addressing nutritional issues
before they arise is critical for maintaining plant health and preventing yield loss.
Regular monitoring of nutrient levels, paired with timely adjustments, helps growers
stay ahead of potential deficiencies or imbalances. Whether you need guidance on
adjusting fertilizer rates, troubleshooting an issue, or exploring innovative solutions
emerging in the market, GGSPro is ready to assist. Connect with your local sales
representative or our team directly via phone, email, and virtual meetings to discuss
how we can support your operation in achieving consistent, high-quality results.

SUPPORT IS HERE AT GRIFFIN
Beyond the myriad of technical services Griffin’s GGSPro team provides,
there are also several valuable tools available online for calculating different
fertilizer scenarios as well as double checking fertilizer calculations such as
Back Pocket Grower (https://www.backpocketgrower.org/) and FertCalc
(https://e-gro.org/fert-calc/fert-calc/dist/). AlkCalc (https://e-gro.org/alkcalc/
dist/index.html) is also a helpful calculator for determining acid injection rates when
wanting to manipulate alkalinity levels and solution pH. Connect with Griffin’s CEA
Department and GGSPro today to develop a plant nutrition strategy tailored to
your needs. A single conversation can open the door to new opportunities, helping
you optimize growth, quality, and profitability. With a dedicated support team
ready to assist, Griffin is just a phone call or email away. Email GGSPro at
ggsprotech@griffinmail.com.

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