Over the years of growing plants in Aerogarden, I have encountered the same typical problems. This prompted me to find solutions to these problems, and here I will share all my findings with you.
⚡QUICK ANSWERS⚡
| Symptom | Potential Cause | Quick Fix |
| Yellowing leaves (between veins) | Water pH is too high (Alkaline) | Adjust pH to 5.5–6.5 range |
| Slimy, brown, or smelly roots | Root Rot (Lack of oxygen) | Trim roots, add Hydrogen Peroxide, install air pump |
| Brown, crispy leaf tips | Calcium deficiency / Poor airflow | Add a small fan to improve air circulation |
| Stunted growth (slow or no growth) | Nutrient Imbalance / Salt buildup | Perform a full Rinse and Refill with fresh water |
| Tall, skinny stems (reaching up) | Light is too far or lack of pruning | Lower the LED panel or prune the top of the plant |
| White crust on the deck/tank | Mineral & Salt accumulation | Clean the system and change water every 14 days |
| Leaning or collapsing stems | Lack of Trellis System | Install a support frame or trellis for stability |
1. Water pH Imbalance
The first thing I encountered was high water pH. Since I try to make hydroponic cultivation as cheap as possible, I use regular tap water.
One of the disadvantages of tap water in my area is that its pH is 7.5, which is not suitable for any hydroponic plants. The leaves of my plants developed yellow spots and they grew slowly.
I use a pH meter to determine the pH. I use a special preparation to lower the pH. All of these items are readily available for purchase.
2. Light Issues
The LEDs in AeroGarden vary depending on the model. Often, some plants do not get enough light and stretch toward the LEDs. As a result, the upper leaves get burned, leaving white spots.
The same situation occurs with tall plants, such as basil or dill. Even the AeroGarden Bounty is not tall enough for them, not to mention the smaller models.
I solved this problem by pruning the tops of the plants. As soon as the plant reaches the LEDs, I prune it one to two inches below. After a while, I prune it again. As a result, the plant begins to grow more in width than in height.
3. Root Health Issues
Root rot is probably the biggest problem for beginners. It manifests itself as yellowing leaves and slow plant growth. If you look inside the tank, you will see brown, mushy roots and smell an unpleasant odor.
First of all, remove the plants from the tank and wash their roots, removing the rotten ones. Then thoroughly wash the tank and disinfect it with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
To prevent root rot, install an air pump with an air stone to ensure aeration of the water. Also, change the water every two weeks.
Read more: 6 Steps to Stop Root Rot in AeroGarden & iDOO
4. Nutrient Imbalance
Nutrient imbalance is very common in AeroGarden. It manifests itself as yellowing leaves and slow growth. Often, plants remain small and fragile.
This is due to the plant food offered by the company. This product is not suitable for all plants; in other words, it is not multipurpose.
I solved this problem by using my own set of nutrients for each type of plant. If you don’t want to spend time on this, I recommend using hydroponic fertilizers from more reputable companies that have a lot of experience in creating fertilizers specifically for hydroponics. Usually, such fertilizers have three components.
5. Brown Leaves and Tip Burn
Brown leaf tips are another common problem. It usually starts before the leaf unfolds. Sometimes mold and rot can even appear on the leaves.
There are two reasons for this phenomenon. The first is a lack of calcium in the water. The second is insufficient evaporation of water by the leaves.
To solve the calcium problem, you need to add a liquid calcium-containing product to the solution. The second problem can be solved by installing a fan opposite the system to remove excess moisture from the leaves with a stream of air.
6. Salt Accumulation
Regardless of the model, the Aerogarden tank is quite small, and the plants quickly drink up the water. As a result, you have to constantly refill it with fresh water.
This leads to a lot of salt deposits appearing on the walls of the tank. These salts increase the EC of the water, which very often has a negative effect on plant growth.
I solved this problem by changing the water every 2-4 weeks. During the replacement, I perform a complete cleaning of the system. I pay special attention to salt deposits, which are best removed with vinegar.
7. Lack of Trellis System
Only the Bounty and Farm models are equipped with the trellis system. The rest of the models do not have this system, which is a shame because it is very convenient for growing tall plants.
I solved this problem by tying the plants to a light pole, although this is not very convenient. Another method I use is a plant support frame that I bought separately at a garden store.
Share This Post