Plants use photosynthesis to turn sunlight into energy, and they can do it without soil through hydroponics. Hydroponics nutrients Plants in a water-based solution instead of soil, using materials like rockwool or gravel for stability. It is popular for its efficiency in food production, especially in regions with limited natural light. It helps identify nutrient deficiencies and can lead to faster growth.
The question arises: Can these hydroponic plants be transplanted into soil? The answer is Yes; Hydroponics plants can be moved from water to soil. Let us explore.
Also Read: 14 Plants That Don't Need Drainage
Factors Influencing Successful Transplantation of Hydroponics to Soil
While numerous plants cultivated hydroponically can adapt to soil with adequate attention, not all will flourish after the transition. The success of transferring plants from hydroponics to soil depends upon the root structure. Delicate roots increase the vulnerability of plants to transplant shock. In the life cycle, an annual plant tends to adapt better than perennials. The plant's ability to adjust to changing environments. Its nutrient requirements may be more challenging to meet in soil. The overall health of the plant, with healthier specimens being more resilient to transplantation stress.
Moving Hydroponically Grown Plants to Soil With Care
Transplanting Plants from Hydroponic systems to soil is often preferred for a strong beginning to the growing cycle. The strategy ensures a healthy start, especially considering the time seeds require for germination and the potential for seed failures. Prior to transplanting, it is crucial to absorb the plant through a hardening process, allowing it to adjust to forthcoming changes. Post-transplantation care is essential for facilitating successful growth in the new environment. A comprehensive process takes care of any shock experienced by hydroponically grown plants during this transition.
Steps of Successful Transition
Transitioning hydroponic plants to soil successfully requires patience and careful observation to ensure their adaptation and growth in their new environment.
Step 1 – Decrease Hydroponic Watering
Decrease watering prior to shifting to your hydroponic plants. Plan the activity of decreasing water supply at least two weeks in advance before you transplant them into the soil.
Step 2 – Choose Pots
In the next step, select appropriate pots to help acclimate the plants to outdoor conditions before planting them in your garden.
Step 3 – Prepare Soil
Use loose potting soil or soil-free peat mix in the pots. Prior to filling the pots, moisten the soil in a separate container. Avoid over-soaking to prevent root rot.
Step 4 – Excavating Holes
With a spoon, carve out a hollow at the midpoint of every container, making sure it's spacious enough to fit the transplant's root ball.
Step 5 – Introduce Mycorrhiza
Contemplate incorporating mycorrhiza into each hole to encourage a mutually beneficial bond with plant roots, improving nutrient uptake and overall development.
Step 6 – Trim Foliage
Trim back some leaves and stems of the transplants to reduce the foliage the plant needs to support, aiding in its adjustment to the new soil.
Step 7 – Gentle Plant Handling and Proper Placement
Handle the plant delicately, supporting the stem and gently placing the root ball into the pre-dug hole. Fill any gaps with soil, avoiding excessive compression.
Step 8 – Water and Fertilisation
Mist the soil immediately after transplanting and add fertilizer to promote growth. Gradually reduce the watering frequency as the roots adapt to the soil. As the nutritional requirement of hydroponically cultivated plants is different from plants cultivated in the soil, over time as the plant survive will adjust to the nutritional value of the soil.
Step 9 – Gradual Sun Exposure and Hydration
In soil, the hydroponic plants should be placed in a partial sunlight area, if possible, looking into dehydration and planning the water cycle accordingly.
Moving hydroponically cultivated plants into soil presents an excellent opportunity to broaden your cultivation methods and extend your gardening skills. Preparation is essential to guarantee the plant's successful adaptation.
Reducing Transplant Shock
Transplant shock manifests when moving a plant from its original environment to a different one, like shifting it to a bigger container or altering its growing medium from water to soil. This condition arises as the plant's roots find it challenging to adapt to the new surroundings, obstructing nutrient absorption and causing a transition period to its sensitivity and balance.
In severe cases, plants may deteriorate and perish. To minimize transplant shock, it is crucial to handle the roots delicately to reduce damage and ensure adequate hydration, particularly in water-based environments, by regularly refreshing the water to prevent stagnation and potential harm to the hydroponic plant.
