Is RO Water Good for Weed Plants?

In recent years, cannabis cultivation has become increasingly popular, especially in states where the plant has been legalized. With this surge in growing, more and more growers are trying to find the best ways to optimize their plants' growth and yield. One of the factors that affect plant growth is the type of water used, with RO water gaining popularity as a viable option. But, is RO water good for weed plants?

What is RO Water?

RO water (reverse osmosis water) is a type of purified water produced by removing all impurities, including minerals, from regular water. The process of reverse osmosis relies on a semi-permeable membrane that only allows pure water molecules to pass through, leaving behind any minerals or contaminants that may be present. The result is pure water with a pH close to 7.0.

What are the Advantages of using RO Water?

There are several advantages to using RO water for growing weed plants. Firstly, it is free from any harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, chlorine or other harsh chemicals that can affect the plant's growth. Secondly, the pH levels of RO water are typically neutral, which can help to prevent issues with nutrient lockout, where certain minerals become unavailable to the plant. Thirdly, the absence of minerals means that the grower has complete control over what nutrients the plant receives, allowing for more precise adjustments to the plant's diet.

What are the Disadvantages of using RO Water?

Although RO water may seem like a perfect solution, there are a few disadvantages to consider. The first drawback is that the process of removing all minerals from the water can make the water behave like an acid, with a pH level of around 5.5. While neutral pH levels are key to a plant's growth, too much acidity can be harmful, especially to young plants. Growers must be careful to adjust the pH of the water accordingly, using pH-up solutions to bring it to an ideal level.

The second disadvantage is that removing all minerals can deprive the plant of some essential nutrients. Even though growers can add nutrients back into the water, they may have to add considerable amounts to compensate for the missing minerals. This can result in higher nutrient costs, depending on the method being used.

Conclusion

Overall, RO water is a good option for weed plant growers who want complete control over their plants' nutrient intake and to prevent potential problems caused by contaminants in water. However, growers need to be aware of the challenges that come with using RO water and make sure to properly adjust pH levels and add necessary nutrients back into the water. By doing so, growers can ensure that their weed plants receive the best possible environment in which to grow and thrive.