What nutrients to add and when to add them.....

Emporium Hydroponics • April 23, 2025

In hydroponics, nutrients are essential at every stage of plant growth but the type and concentration of nutrients vary depending on the growth stage.


Here's a breakdown:..


1. Seedling Stage (0–2 weeks)


  • Nutrient strength: 25–50% of full strength.
  • Focus: Root development and gentle growth.
  • Nutrient mix: High in phosphorus (P) for roots, moderate nitrogen (N), low potassium (K).


Use a seedling or clone nutrient formula

For the seedling and root stage of a hydroponic growth use nutrients high in phosporous, moderate in nitrogen and with low potassium such as Clonex or Canna

2. Vegetative Stage


  • Nutrient strength: 75–100% of full strength.
  • Focus: Leaf and stem growth.
  • Nutrient mix: High nitrogen (N), moderate phosphorus (P), moderate potassium (K).


Often labeled “Grow” formula.

Dutchpro Take Root, A+B Grow and Multi Total are great for the vegetative stage of a hydroponic growth

3. Flowering/Fruiting Stage


  • Nutrient strength: Full strength (unless you're seeing nutrient burn*).
  • Focus: Flower/fruit production.
  • Nutrient mix: Low nitrogen (N), high phosphorus (P), high potassium (K).


Use a “Bloom” formula.

For the flowering and fruiting stage use nutrients low in nitrogen, high in phosphorous and high in potassium

4. Flush Stage (last 1–2 weeks before harvest)


  • No nutrients.
  • Only use pH-balanced water to remove excess salts and improve final flavour and quality.

We supply plenty of different types of nutrient and it is best to stay with one specific brand throughout all of the growth stages.


Let us know about your growth ambitions and we can recommend the exact nutrient mixes and schedules!