Project Broiler

It seems that my setup (or genetics) can't handle full-strength nutrients. For two days, I watered without runoff, and I noticed on the soil moisture chart that the plant started drinking less and more slowly. Growth was barely noticeable on the timelapse. That’s when I realized something was wrong. I flushed with 3 liters of RO water. Runoff EC was a staggering 5.3. Without much hesitation, I flushed with another 2 liters, and the EC finally dropped to 1.6, while the pH remained stable at 5.9. After that, I halved the base nutrient dosage (from 4 ml to 2 ml per liter). Watering was done in two parts: First: 2L with EC 1.4 and pH 5.7–5.8. Second: 1L with EC 0.45 and pH 6.2. Now, the charts show improvement, and the runoff has stabilized. The plant is back to feeding, and EC is holding at 1.3. From now on, I’ll adjust feeding based on runoff dynamics, as the manufacturer's feeding chart clearly doesn't suit my grow. I’ll monitor the EC difference between input and runoff to fine-tune the nutrient dosage. By the way, signs of nutrient burn (slightly burnt tips) have appeared, confirming an overdose. However, I think the plant handled the stress quite well, and my timely reaction—thanks to sensors and monitoring—prevented further issues. --- Big Update: Nutrient Replacement I discovered (don’t remember how) that my base nutrients are actually pretty basic, designed for beginners. For experienced growers with advanced setups (I barely fit into this category, but still), there’s the Connoisseur line. It includes extra elements like amino acids, fulvic acids, and other fancy additives. Moreover, there’s a special coco formula with reduced potassium and increased magnesium and calcium, eliminating the need for CalMag. Shut up and take my money! But not so fast—after browsing through half the grow shops in the EU, I found that the full Connoisseur lineup was out of stock everywhere. Then I stumbled upon a store with an outdated, plain design offering cash-on-delivery. I took the risk and placed an order. Surprisingly, it arrived within two days. As they say, don’t judge a book by its cover. --- Miscellaneous Updates CO₂ management isn’t running smoothly, possibly due to overlapping automation scripts or an issue with the valve. Since it happens early in the morning, I can’t always respond quickly. I’ve already used up another tank, but I’ve tweaked the automation. Now, I’ve got three scripts for CO₂ control: 1. Injection: Runs for 10 minutes with support every 2 minutes. The first injection lasts 5 seconds, followed by alternating 2-second and 1-second injections. 2. Temperature Protection: Activates the vent for 5 seconds if the grow box gets too warm and turns it off if the injection process is ongoing. 3. CO₂ Level Protection: Activates the vent for 10 seconds if CO₂ levels exceed the target and turns it off if the injection process is ongoing. Quick note: CO₂ sensors aren’t perfect and should be used as a general guide. I’m using the SCD41, which is considered accurate but has a lag time of 15 seconds. In that time, CO₂ injection can easily overshoot the target. That’s why time-based automation is far more reliable. Lastly, there was an issue with the camera: waves and distortions appeared, possibly due to vibrations, which means I’ll have to cut three days of timelapse footage. I’ve secured the camera better now, and everything seems fine. --- That’s the week! Stay tuned for more updates!