This test shows the difference in overall growth and spread of roots between slabs. It can also be used to test loose media, such as Grodan granulate or Growcubes.
You will need the following to carry out the test:
- Some healthy plants, such as tomatoes or peppers.
- A Grodan slab such as Expert 15/75 and another rockwool slab similar in dimension to the Grodan slab.
- A couple of Grodan mini-blocks (MM 40/40)
- Nutrient solution delivered in your hydroponic system
Steps: - Pre-wet and adjust pH of the slabs as you normally would.
- Place two plants on the Grodan slab, one on each side.
- Insert a Grodan MM 40/40 block in the center of the slab, between the plants.
- Do the same with the other rockwool slab.
- Allow the plants to grow in your normal hydroponic system and environment.
- After two weeks of growth, remove the MM 40/40 cube from each slab.
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The MM cube with the most roots demonstrates the higher quality rockwool. If you have to actually cut the MM block off of the slab because of strong root growth, then you know you have a great slab.
Loose media (such as clay beads, peat, soil mixes, etc.) can be compared to Grodan granulate or Grodan Growcubes. However, you will need to put the media in two different trays not pots. Then do similar as in the test with the slabs- 2 plants in each tray with a MM 40/40 block in the middle. |
