Fertigation Tanks in Hydroponics.

Thinking of automating your hydroponic watering system? Fertigation tanks—also known as nutrient or water tanks—are essential for anyone running a continuous system or growing multiple plants. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about fertigation tanks, from setup and benefits to common pitfalls and maintenance tips.

What Is a Fertigation Tank?

A fertigation tank is a reservoir that stores water mixed with nutrients before it’s delivered to your plants. It plays a key role in:

• Recirculating hydroponic systems
• Automated irrigation
• Large-scale or multi-plant grow setups

Instead of hand-watering or using a hose, you fill a tank (e.g., 200L) with water, allow it to reach the desired temperature, and then add your nutrients. The fertigation solution is then distributed to the plants using pumps or gravity-fed systems.

Key Factors to Consider When Using a Fertigation Tank

1. Water Temperature Control

• Cold water (from tap or rain) may stress plants.
• Hot water can promote unwanted microbial growth.
• Use a heater in winter or a cooler in summer to maintain an optimal temperature.

2. Oxygenation

Plant roots need oxygen. In stagnant reservoirs, oxygen can be limited.

✅ Solutions:

• Add an aerator or air stone
• Use a timer (a few minutes per hour) to avoid over-foaming
• Watch for foam or scum, which could indicate microbial activity or nutrient imbalance

3. Chlorine and Water Quality

Tap water often contains chlorine, which can harm both:

• Beneficial microbes
• Plant roots

✅ Solutions:

• Let water sit for 24 hours to off-gas
• Use a dechlorinator (e.g., Dr. Hydro)
• Choose fertilizers like Gold Leaf or Liquid Gold, which include dechlorinators

4. Mixing and Nutrient Sediment

Poor mixing can lead to:

• Nutrient sedimentation (especially with silica-based fertilizers)
• Blocked filters
• Unavailable nutrients for plants

✅ Tips:

• Mix nutrients according to the manufacturer’s feed chart
• Install a filter on the tank outlet
• Avoid combining incompatible nutrients in one batch

5. Tank Hygiene and Biofilm

Over time, nutrients and microbes can leave residue on the tank’s walls.

✅ Always:

• Clean your tank before and after every grow cycle
• Remove any biofilm or slime buildup
• Rinse new tanks to remove chemical coatings or plastic residues

6. System Safety: Inlets, Outlets & Leaks

Leaks and overflows are serious issues in hydroponic grow rooms filled with:

• Electrical systems
• Lights and timers

✅ Best Practices:

• Regularly inspect all connections
• Use secure fittings for inlets and outlets
• Don’t rely on automation alone—monitor your system daily

💡 Pro Tip: “The best fertilizer is the grower’s shadow.” Always inspect your plants in person.

Automation Options

You can pair your fertigation tank with:

• Gravity-fed systems
• Drip irrigation
• Dosing pumps or timers

But remember—automation reduces workload, it doesn’t eliminate it. Regular check-ins ensure everything runs smoothly.

Summary: Why Fertigation Tanks Are Worth It

Fertigation tanks simplify nutrient delivery and improve efficiency, especially in large or recirculating systems. However, to use them successfully, you must:

✅ Maintain water quality
✅ Keep the tank clean
✅ Monitor for leaks and foam
✅ Check plants daily

Whether you’re a beginner or upgrading your setup, understanding your fertigation system is a must.

Article by Dr Russell Sharp

If you would like to keep up to date with subjects just like this, you can listen to both our podcasts! Links can be found bellow:

Hydroponics Daily Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2

Cereal Killers Podcast: https://t.co/eSEbBkTVHl