Sticky Broccoli DWC x Eternity Cup 2026

xTaps The Hydro System (DIY DWC) Reservoir: IKEA HÅLLBAR (10L), fully light-proofed. Precision Upgrades: M16 Cable Glands: Clean and air-tight hose routing for the air pump. M20 Cable Gland: Modified to securely fix the monitor probe in the lid, ensuring it is both light-tight and stable. Monitoring: GIDIGI 8-in-1 WiFi Water Quality Tester (Real-time pH, EC, Temp), ADWA AD11 pH Meter (for double-checking). Nutrient Base & Preparation: To ensure maximum stability, I am working with a precisely calculated 3:1 CalMag ratio. I supplemented my tap water with 0,21ml/L of T.A. Calcium Magnesium Supplement. The system and media were pre-calibrated and stabilized at a pH of 5.3. 01.01.2026 Day 1 1. Reservoir Modification & Light-Proofing To ensure a sterile root environment and prevent algae growth, the HÅLLBAR bucket was modified as follows: Light-Block: The entire body and lid were first covered with black duct tape to block all light penetration. Reflection & Heat Protection: A second layer of reflective aluminum tape was applied. This creates a "mirror finish" that reflects light back to the plant's lower canopy and prevents the nutrient solution from heating up under the Mars Hydro LED. Fittings: M16 cable glands were installed in the body for airline tubing, and an M20 gland was mounted in the lid for the GIDIGI pH/EC probe to ensure light-tight entries. Sanitation: After removing all plastic shavings from drilling, the reservoir was thoroughly disinfected with isopropyl alcohol. 2. Tech & Sensor Preparation Air Stone Sanitization: Two air stones, previously used for one week, were boiled and mechanically scrubbed to remove any biofilm and prevent pathogens like Pythium. They are placed at the bottom for maximum oxygen saturation. Probe Maintenance: The GIDIGI monitor probe was descaled (removing calcium deposits) and positioned via the lid gland to measure within the lower third of the reservoir. Water Metering: A Gardena water flow meter was installed to determine the exact net volume of the solution up to the bottom of the net pot. 3. Germination & Media Preparation Rockwool Conditioning: A starter plug was soaked in water pH-adjusted to 5.3 to neutralize the natural alkalinity of the rockwool and provide a stable starting environment. Sowing: The Sticky Broccoli seed was placed approximately 1 cm deep into the moist (but not oversaturated) plug, with the hole lightly covered. Environment: The plug is now kept in a high-humidity environment until the first taproot emerges from the bottom. 05.01.2026 Update: Germination Successful! 🌱 The Sticky Broccoli has finally seen the light of day! The seedling has "arched its back" and is currently pushing its first cotyledons out of the rockwool cube. Current Care: Watering: I’ve been providing exactly 10 ml of pH-adjusted water every 2 days to keep the cube consistently moist. Current pH Level: 5.2 Next Steps: Transplant: As soon as the first root tip emerges from the bottom of the cube, I will move it into the DWC system (HÅLLBAR bucket). Watering Strategy: I will continue with 10 ml every 2 days for now. pH Management: The pH is currently sitting at 5.2. Since the clay pebbles (expanded clay) aren't in the system yet, I’ll counter-steer during the next watering with a higher pH (target 6.0). This should bring the environment inside the cube back to the optimum level of around 5.8. 07.01 Finally moved the "Sticky Broccoli" into the DWC bucket. I prepared 8L of nutrient solution. Initially, the pH was a bit jumpy, rising from 6.0 up to 6.6 due to aeration, but I managed to stabilize it at 5.9. The seedling is placed in a rockwool cube, sandwiched between clay pebbles. Everything is looking healthy, and the water temperature is holding steady at a perfect 20°C. Waiting for those first roots to hit the reservoir now! 🚀 12.01 Heading: Roots in the Water – The Engine is Starting! 💧 Milestone: The roots of the Sticky Broccoli have officially hit the reservoir. Seeing great, healthy white roots establishing themselves in the solution. Water Chemistry: pH is holding steady at 6.0. The EC is slightly fluctuating between 1.09 and 1.12, which is expected due to aeration and minor evaporation as the plant begins its intake. Next Phase: With the nutrient supply line now established, I'm expecting the first real vegetative growth spurt any time now. 16.01.2026 Heading: Root Explosion & pH Adjustment 💧 Root Development: The Sticky Broccoli is showing incredible progress. Roots are now deep in the reservoir and starting to branch out significantly. Healthy, bright white, and very active. Parameters: pH drifted up to 6.2 this afternoon, showing active nutrient interaction. Readjusted to 5.9 for a perfect "sweet spot." EC is holding steady at 1.12. Foliage: The new growth in the center is pushing out with much more vigor now that the "fuel line" is fully established. Phase: Closing in on the end of the seedling stage. Veg Week 1 is just around the corner!