TheNaturePlanet

As a soilless cultivation method, hydroponics has the advantages of being clean, easy to observe the growth status of plants and rapid rooting. However, when hydroponic plants, especially those propagated by cutting, have successfully taken root, how to smoothly transfer these hydroponic plants to the soil for continued growth is a problem that needs to be understood.
First of all, we need to understand the differences between hydroponics and soil cultivation.
The roots of hydroponic plants are directly soaked in water containing nutrient solution, and the environment is relatively single and stable. While the roots of soil-cultivated plants are rooted in the soil. The soil provides water, nutrients and air for plants, and the environment is more complex and changeable.
The roots of hydroponic plants are relatively thin and weak and are accustomed to growing in a moist and unobstructed environment. In contrast, the roots in the soil need stronger support and adaptability to deal with the friction between soil particles and the activities of microorganisms in the soil.
Before transferring hydroponic plants to soil cultivation, we need to make some preparations.
First of all, make sure that the hydroponic plant has taken root and the root system is healthy and lush. At the same time, observe whether the plant leaves are fresh green and shiny, which is a manifestation of the strong vitality of the plant.
Then choose loose soil with good air permeability and avoid using overly sticky soil to prevent the roots from suffocating. According to the plant species, choose the appropriate soil formula, and add leaf mold, perlite, vermiculite, etc. to increase soil fertility and air permeability. It is best to disinfect the new soil before use to prevent bacteria and insect eggs in the soil from harming the plants.
Choose a flowerpot or planting box of appropriate size. There should be drainage holes at the bottom to drain excess water and prevent root rot caused by water accumulation.
The following are the steps to transfer hydroponic plants to soil cultivation.
Gently take the plant out of the hydroponic container, and gently rinse the root system with clean water to remove the mucus and residual nutrient solution attached to the root system. Note that the movements should be gentle to avoid damaging the root system.
Properly prune overly long and dense root systems to promote the growth of new roots. At the same time, remove weak and rotten roots to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Lay a layer of ceramsite or gravel at the bottom of the flowerpot as a drainage layer, and then fill in the prepared soil. Put the plant into the flowerpot, adjust the position to make the root system spread naturally, and then gently fill in the soil to an appropriate height. Note that do not compact the soil to avoid affecting root respiration.
For the first watering after transferring to soil cultivation, water thoroughly to fully moisten the soil. Then place the plant in a place with good ventilation and sufficient scattered light for slow seedling. During the slow seedling period, avoid direct sunlight and excessive watering to avoid stressing the plant.
Transferring hydroponic plants to soil cultivation is a process that requires care and patience. Through reasonable preparations, correct operation steps and careful maintenance after transferring to soil cultivation, hydroponic plants can be successfully transferred to the soil for continued growth.