Plant Doctor

Q: How do I diagnose problems with my hydroponic plants?

Start by identifying which part of your plant is showing symptoms: leaves, roots, stems, flowers/fruit, or the whole plant. Then answer follow-up questions about the specific symptoms to narrow down the diagnosis. Common problems include pH lockout, nutrient deficiencies, root rot, and pest damage.

Q: What are the most common hydroponic plant problems?

The most common hydroponic plant problems are pH nutrient lockout, root rot, nutrient burn (EC too high), nitrogen deficiency, calcium deficiency, and iron deficiency. Most can be prevented by monitoring pH (5.5-6.5), EC levels, and solution temperature (65-72F).

Diagnose and fix common hydroponic plant problems. No guesswork.

How It Works

Answer a few questions about what you are seeing and we will help you identify the problem and fix it. Click an option to move forward, or click any step in the trail above to go back.

Step 1

What part of your plant is showing symptoms?

Leaves

Roots

Stems

Flowers or Fruit

Whole Plant

Common Problems

Jump directly to a diagnosis:

pH Lockout Root Rot Nutrient Burn Nitrogen Deficiency Calcium Deficiency Iron Deficiency

Prevention Tips

Check pH every 1-2 days. Keep it between 5.5 and 6.5.
Change nutrient solution completely every 1-2 weeks.
Keep nutrient solution temperature between 65-72F (18-22C).
Use adequate aeration. Size your air pump to at least 1 watt per gallon.
Maintain good airflow around plants with fans.
Clean and sanitize your system between crops.
Inspect plants daily for early signs of problems.
Top off with plain, pH-adjusted water between solution changes.

Nutrient Calculator

Get exact nutrient mixing amounts for your crop, growth stage, and brand.

Open Calculator

Planting Calendar

See what crops to start, grow, and harvest each month in your hydroponic system.

View Calendar

Need a System?

Browse our free DIY hydroponic building plans with step-by-step instructions.

Browse Free Plans