Substrates and methods for growing plants: grow boxes, grow tents and outdoor cultivation in comparison
Introduction
Growing plants can be done in a variety of ways, with the choice of substrate and cultivation method being crucial to success. In addition to classic outdoor cultivation, closed systems such as grow tents and grow tents are becoming more and more popular, especially for indoor cultivation. This post will explore the different substrates and cultivation methods in detail, with a special focus on the differences between grow tents, grow tents, and outdoor cultivation. Scientific findings are used to explain the connections.
1. The importance of substrates in plant cultivation
Substrates play a central role in plant cultivation as they support the roots of plants and allow water and nutrients to be absorbed. Choosing the right substrate depends on the specific requirements of the plants as well as the environmental conditions. The most important substrates and their properties are described below.
2. Different substrates and their properties
2.1 Earth: The Classical Substrate – An In-Depth Analysis
Soil is the most natural and widely used substrate in plant cultivation. From a scientific perspective, Earth is a complex, dynamic system that combines mineral and organic components in an optimal ratio. The quality of soil is determined by its physical, chemical and biological properties.
Scientific composition of soil:
A high-quality potting soil typically consists of:
- 45% mineral components (mainly silicates, feldspar and quartz)
- 5% organic matter (humus and microorganisms)
- 25% water (with dissolved nutrients)
- 25% air (for root breathing)
The mineral component is made up of three particle sizes:
- Clay (particles < 0.002 mm): Responsible for nutrient storage
- Silt (0.002-0.05 mm): Affects water retention capacity
- Sand (0.05-2.0 mm): Determines the drainage properties
Detailed consideration of different earth types:
1. Loamy soil (optimal soil)
- Ideal mixture: 40% sand, 40% silt, 20% clay
- Water holding capacity: 150-250 ml of water per litre of soil
- Air void volume: 15-25%
- pH range: 6.0-7.0 (optimal for most plants)
- Cation exchange capacity: 10-30 cmol/kg
2. Peat-based substrates
- Water storage capacity: Up to 300% of its own weight
- Natural pH: 3.5-4.5 (requires calcification)
- Nutrient content: Very low (EC value <0.5 mS/cm)
- Microbial activity: Low (10^4-10^5 bacteria/g)
- Environmental aspect: Peat extraction releases 20-30 million tons of CO2 annually
3. Compost soil
- Organic matter: 30-50%
- Nutrient content:
- Nitrogen (N): 1.5-3.0%
- Phosphorus (P): 0.5-1.0%
- Potassium (K): 1.0-2.0%
- Microbial colonization: 10^8-10^9 bacteria/g
- C/N Ratio: Optimal 15-20:1
Scientific findings on soil function:
Modern research shows that up to 90% of nutrient uptake in many plants is mediated by mycorrhizal fungi. These symbiotic fungi increase the effective root surface area by 10-100 times. The pore size distribution in the soil is crucial for:
- Macropores (>50μm): Oxygenation
- Mesopores (10-50μm): Plant-available water
- Micropores (<10μm): Water that is not available to plants
Optimisation of soil for cultivation:
1. Perlite Addition
- Increases air void volume by 15-30%
- Ideal proportion: 10-30% of the substrate mixture
- Particle size: 1-5mm optimal
2. Vermiculite
- Improves cation exchange capacity by 20-50 cmol/kg
- Water retention: Up to 500% of its own weight
- Recommended Addition: 10-20%
3. Bentonite (clay mineral)
- Particularly effective in sandy soils
- Can increase water retention capacity by 30-50%
- Optimal Addition Quantity: 5-10%
4. Mycorrhizal vaccination
- Increases phosphorus uptake by up to 300%
- Increases the drought tolerance of the plants
- Reduces fertilizer requirements by 20-30%
Practical application in grow box cultivation:
For indoor cultivation in grow tents, a special substrate mix is recommended:
- 60% high-quality organic soil
- 20% coconut fibres (for structural improvement)
- 15% perlite (for ventilation)
- 5% worm humus (as a nutrient supplier)
- Mycorrhizal Starter Culture
This blend offers:
- Optimal water holding capacity (200-250ml/litre)
- Excellent ventilation (>20% air voids)
- Slow nutrient release
- Active microbial community
This detailed examination shows that soil as a substrate is a highly complex system whose properties can be modified in a targeted manner for optimal plant yields. Today, the scientific findings of soil science enable a precise adjustment of substrate properties to the respective plant requirements.
2.2 Coco Fiber: A Sustainable Substrate
Coco coir, also known as coco coir, is extracted from the shell of coconuts. They are a popular substrate in indoor cultivation because they provide good aeration and water retention.
Advantages:
- Coconut fibres are sustainable and reusable
- Provide excellent aeration and water retention
- Promote root growth
Disadvantages:
- Naturally low in nutrients
- Require additional fertilization
Coco coir is often used in hydroponic systems because it is a good alternative to soil and can make nutrient uptake more efficient.
2.3 Perlite and Vermiculite: Mineral Substrates
Perlite and vermiculite are mineral substrates that are extracted from volcanic rock and mica, respectively. They are often used as additives in substrates to improve aeration and water retention.
Advantages:
- Improve aeration and water retention
- Are sterile and free of pests and diseases
Disadvantages:
- Contain no nutrients
- Must be mixed with other substrates
In indoor cultivation, perlite and vermiculite are often used in hydroponic systems to improve root aeration and prevent waterlogging.
2.4 Hydroponics: Substrate-free cultivation
Hydroponics is a method in which plants are grown in a nutrient solution without a substrate. The roots of the plants are anchored directly in the nutrient solution or in an inert medium such as clay balls or rock wool.
Advantages:
- Allows precise control of nutrient supply and pH
- Efficient water use
- Promotes rapid growth
Disadvantages:
- Requires specialized equipment and knowledge
- Prone to technical issues such as pump failures
Hydroponics is often used in indoor cultivation because it allows for high yields and efficient use of resources.
3. Methods of growing plants
3.1 Traditional soil cultivation
Traditional soil cultivation is the oldest and most widespread method of growing crops. Plants are planted directly in the soil, which serves as a substrate and source of nutrients.
Advantages:
- Simple and cost-effective
- Uses the natural resources of the soil
Disadvantages:
- Depending on the quality of the soil
- Can be affected by pests and diseases
In outdoor cultivation, soil cultivation is the preferred method because it uses natural resources and requires little technical equipment.
3.2 Hydroponics: growing in nutrient solution
Hydroponics is a method in which plants are grown in a nutrient solution without a substrate. The roots of the plants are anchored directly in the nutrient solution or in an inert medium such as clay balls or rock wool.
Advantages:
- Precise control of nutrient supply and pH
- Efficient use of water
- Promotes rapid growth
Disadvantages:
- Requires specialized equipment and knowledge
- Prone to technical issues
Hydroponics is often used in indoor cultivation because it allows for high yields and efficient use of resources.
3.3 Aeroponics: Growing in the air
Aeroponics is a method in which the roots of the plants hang in the air and are sprayed with a nutrient solution. This method provides maximum aeration of the roots.
Advantages:
- Maximum aeration of the roots
- Efficient nutrient uptake
- Promotes rapid growth and high yields
Disadvantages:
- Requires specialized equipment and knowledge
- Prone to technical issues such as spray failures
Aeroponics is often used in indoor cultivation because it allows for high yields and efficient use of resources.
3.4 Aquaponics: Combination of fish farming and plant cultivation
Aquaponics is a method that combines fish farming and plant cultivation. The excretions of the fish serve as nutrients for the plants while the plants purify the water.
Advantages:
- Sustainable method
- Combines fish farming and plant cultivation
- Efficient use of resources
Disadvantages:
- Requires specialized equipment and knowledge
- Prone to technical issues
Aquaponics is often used in indoor cultivation because it is a sustainable and efficient method of growing plants.
4. Grow Boxes and Grow Tents vs. Outdoor Growing
4.1 Grow Tents: Compact Solution for Indoor Cultivation
Grow tents are closed systems designed specifically for indoor cultivation. They provide a controlled environment in which light, temperature, humidity and other environmental factors can be precisely controlled.
Advantages:
- Precise control of environmental conditions
- Higher yields and better quality
- Compact for small spaces
Disadvantages:
- Requires investment in equipment
- Regular monitoring and maintenance necessary
4.2 Grow Tents: Flexible Solution for Indoor Growing
Grow tents are larger than grow tents and offer more space for plants. They are likewise closed systems that provide a controlled environment.
Advantages:
- More space and flexibility
- Precise control of environmental conditions
- Suitable for larger cultivation projects
Disadvantages:
- Requires investment in equipment
- Regular monitoring and maintenance necessary
4.3 Outdoor Growing: Natural Environment
Outdoor cultivation uses natural resources such as sunlight, rain and soil. This method is simple and inexpensive, but it depends on weather conditions and the quality of the soil.
Advantages:
- Cheap
- Uses natural resources
- Little technical equipment required
Disadvantages:
- Subject to weather conditions
- Susceptible to pests and diseases
5. Practical tips for choosing the right substrate and cultivation method
5.1 Choose the substrate according to the needs of the plants
Not all plants have the same substrate requirements. Choose a substrate that suits the specific needs of the plants.
5.2 Consider environmental conditions
The choice of substrate and cultivation method depends on the environmental conditions. In indoor cultivation, hydroponic systems can be an efficient solution, while in outdoor cultivation, traditional ground cultivation is preferred.
5.3 Monitor nutrient supply
Make sure the plants are getting enough nutrients. In hydroponic cultivation, the nutrient supply can be precisely controlled by the nutrient solution.
5.4 Create a healthy environment
Make sure there is good ventilation, enough space and adequate humidity. In indoor cultivation, automatic systems can help to monitor and adjust environmental conditions.
6. Conclusion: The Science of Growing Plants
Choosing the right substrate and cultivation method is crucial for successful plant growth and high yields. In indoor cultivation, the targeted control of environmental conditions and the use of modern cultivation methods can create optimal conditions that maximize plant growth. Scientific studies show that a balanced combination of natural and technical approaches delivers the best results.
By understanding the physiological processes and applying modern technologies, the full potential of plants can be exploited. This applies to both the hobby gardener and the professional farmer.
Equipped with this knowledge, nothing stands in the way of successful plant cultivation.
