The administration of nutrients
Fertilization is a key point in the cultivation, for which the choice of a good brand of specific nutrients will already per se the difference. 
Let's see what other tricks it will maximize the potential.
The dosage on the label must always be respected, taking care to use the fertilizer in just the right amount based on the stage of plant growth (rooting, growth, flowering), the substrate used ( coir , hydroponics , soil ) and if the crop is very Specific also based on the type of the plant (for example chili , or orchids )
Multicomponent fertilizers and additives should never be mixed in concentrated form or in a little water. These products are kept separated because they are in direct contact with one another may form harmful residues.
First of all, then fill the tank, then pour one by one the fertilizer, then mix well to avoid a pH and a patchy distribution.
On the market there are many bi-component products, specific to the phase of growth and flowering / fruiting. The specific formulation allows them to provide exactly what you need without waste. In the first phase, we have a high requirement for nitrogen, while the second is very well administered potassium and phosphorus, and low nitrogen. Even additives on the market that aim to stimulate a more abundant flowering contain mainly potassium and phosphorus.
Each element contained in the fertilizer is important for the growth of the plant and can not be replaced by others. For example: Magnesium and nitrogen are essential for the production of chlorophyll, but if one is missing can not be remedied by administering a quantity greater than the other.
Nutrients must be complete and contain all the substances required in formats suitable for assimilation by the roots and in the right proportions.
For a proper power plants are necessary macronutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium (NPK's famous formula), calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine.
Also important is the presence of trace elements, which may be present in trace amounts in fertilizer (Boron, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, Molybdenum, Cobalt, Iron, Silicon, Nickel). Especially in these tracks are useful for hydroponics compensate for the lack of the soil: in this context it is essential one more time to monitor the pH as outliers may cause phenomena of insolubility.
The fertilizers may be inorganic, such as minerals or chemicals, when not contain carbon.
The nutrients needed are derived from mineral deposits, seawater and purified, or produced by the chemical industry. Their use is widespread in commercial cultivation for the lowest cost and highest yield. They are banned from organic agriculture.
Organic fertilizers, derived mainly from natural sources (seaweed, guano, manure), contain carbon and have less environmental impact.
Their average cost is higher, the nutrient content and yield little more than minor because the plants absorb the elements only once the dynamics of transformation within the soil have transformed the elements contained in organic inorganic (eg : the absorption of nitrogen occurs as nitrate ion. mineral fertilizers containing it already in this form, while the transformation takes place in the soil for mineralization of organic compounds).
However, the use of organic fertilizers is to be preferred in the ground for its ability to improve their quality, increasing the retention factor of nutrients and water. In hydroponics this problem does not occur and attention should be paid only on the quality of fertilizers and proper disposal.
In the fertilizer are also small, but essential trace elements in trace amounts. A good parameter for measuring the quality of the nutrient is to verify the presence of chelates: they are organic compounds that react with the metal ions rendering them soluble and more stable even when the pH is high. Iron, copper, manganese and zinc may in fact not be absorbed when the solution is too alkaline.
The function of the elements
Nitrogen (N): present in proteins, into amino acids and in nucleic acids. Essential for the production of chlorophyll and the development of photosynthesis, which depends on plant life.
Also an essential component of enzymes involved in the production of auxins and growth hormones. Affects the proper absorption of nutrients.
Phosphorus (P): mostly present in phospholipids, nucleic acids and sugars in phosphorus. Important for the transport of the elements within the plant, in the performance of photosynthesis, in the production of proteins and in the development of the roots. And 'present in high concentrations in the parts growing and seeds.
Potassium (K): a dynamic element used as an activator of enzymes, is also one of the main components of the ash. Adjust the water absorption, transpiration and metabolism. Important in photosynthesis, in the maintenance of pH within the plant, in the activation of enzymes, increases the resistance to external attacks.
Magnesium (Mg): central atom of the chlorophyll molecule, responsible for photosynthesis. Promotes the proper use of phosphorus and is present in large quantities in the seeds.
Sulfur (S): the active component in the formation of aromas and flavors of many vegetables (onions, cabbages), is an essential constituent of the amino acids such as cysteine, which depends on the production of proteins.
Calcium (Ca): strengthens the cell walls, promotes the growth and root development. It helps in balancing excesses in the administration of other elements.
Iron (Fe): Important during photosynthesis and the formation of protein, promotes the enzymatic activity.
Manganese (Mn) in association with Iron contributes to the formation of chlorophyll. It helps the production of starches and sugars in the leaves.
Copper (Cu): essential to ensure the most important enzymatic functions, contribute to the production of chlorophyll.
Zinc (Zn) plays a major role in the production of auxin, growth hormone.
Molybdenum (Mo)-reduces nitrates before the formation of protein molecules.
Boron (B): aids in the proper handling of sugars, and is closely related to the functions of calcium.
Many factors affect the pH of the solution. This will then monitored and adjusted after the addition of fertilizers.
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