Can I pre mix Silica?

Nutrients
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Is it ok to mix silica up into gallon containers of water ahead of time and use it within a couple weeks? Just water and the Silica, Amor Si by General Hydroponics in my case.

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I don’t know how long it will stay in solution but IIRC @dbrn32 does this and uses as a PH adjuster.

I use the same stuff and don’t have any issues with mixing: added first it disappears into solution instantly.

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I was told and have been letting it sit for one hour before mixing nutrients into it. It could cause nutrients to separate if not letting the Si bond with the water for at least an hour. I have no idea if that is true. I was told that in a facebook group and have been letting it site for an hour. Which can be a pain in the but at times.

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I think as long as it is the only additive you’ll be safe to pre-mix. I’ve been pre-mixing adding a quart of ice and running an airstone for about a hour before I add the remaining additives to my nutrient mix.
I got this from General Hydroponics on using Armor Si (potassium silicate)
Certainly! When using Armor Si (or any silica product), it’s essential to follow proper procedures to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Here are some guidelines:

  1. Mixing Silica with Water:

    • Armor Si™ is suitable for all types of plants during all stages of growth. You can use it for plants growing in hydroponics, coco coir, and various media.
    • Mix the silica (Armor Si) with plain water first. This step is crucial to ensure proper dispersion and prevent any issues when combined with other nutrients later.
    • The instructions might be vague, but it’s generally recommended to mix the silica with water before adding other nutrients. Some growers even let the silica-water mixture sit for up to 24 hours, although immediate mixing is also acceptable.

  2. Adding Silica to Nutrient Solution:

    • After preparing the silica-water mixture, you can store it for later use.
    • When you’re ready to use it, add the silica-water mixture to your nutrient reservoir.
    • It’s advisable to add silica first and then mix in the remaining nutrients. This sequence ensures proper integration and avoids potential nutrient interactions.

  3. Silica Benefits:

    • Silica plays a vital role in plant health. It improves plant structure, foliar development, and overall resilience.
    • If your base nutrients don’t already contain silica, adding it separately can make a significant difference in plant growth and strength.

Remember that while silica is beneficial, it’s essential to follow manufacturer instructions and maintain the correct dosage. Happy growing! :seedling::herb:
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Thank you for the help. The guidelines you sent is exactly the information I was looking for. Thanks again.

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When you get a bottle of potassium silicate it was in powdered form and then diluted into water. Further dilution shouldn’t be an issue unless the water is extremely hard or contaminated.

I would just give the water a good shake or stir right before using.

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Yes, in my post it referenced GH ArmorSi and premixing to recommended levels of water. Then add your other nutrients as directed to the amount of water your Silica was premixed in.
I typically use 5 gallon buckets and mix using a recipe from GH.

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When creating a nutrient solution for cannabis, it’s essential to follow the proper order for mixing nutrients to ensure optimal absorption and plant health. Let’s delve into why you should start with silica additives:

  1. Silica Benefits:

    • Accelerated Growth: Silica promotes faster growth by strengthening cell walls and enhancing nutrient uptake.
    • Disease Resistance: Silica boosts the plant’s immune system, making it more resistant to pests and diseases.
    • Increased Chlorophyll Levels: Silica contributes to chlorophyll production, improving photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

  2. Mixing Order:

    • Start With Silica: Mix your silica supplement into plain water first. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This allows the silica to form stable bonds in the water.
    • Base Nutrients: After the silica has bonded, add your base nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium).
    • Cal-Mag: Next, add your cal-mag (calcium and magnesium).
    • Other Additives: Finally, incorporate any other additives (e.g., micronutrients, beneficial microbes).
    • pH Adjustment: Finish by adjusting the pH of your nutrient solution if needed.

Remember, proper nutrient mixing ensures that your plants receive the right balance of essential elements for healthy growth. Happy growing! :seedling::herb:

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I let my silica stir for 15 minutes in a 25-30 gallon reservoir and never had an issue.
Hope this helps

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