How To Treat Common Cannabis Pests in a Hydroponic Grow

Your hydroponic grow tent might feel like a safe haven; you’re in complete control of the light cycle, temperature, and nutrient schedule. But don’t get complacent. Hydroponic growers also have to deal with pests. While bothersome insects are more prolific outdoors, they often wriggle, fly, and crawl their way into indoor growing operations too. Even if you’ve taken special care to secure your windows, vents, and other possible entrances, pests can enter via a host of vectors, including growing equipment, clothing, and growing media.

Identify and Eliminate Cannabis Pests From Your Hydroponic Grow

So, what exactly are you up against? Given the chances, many different pest species will "champ at the bit" to sink their mouthparts into your luscious cannabis leaves, stems, and roots. But six species, in particular, are much more successful at penetrating hydroponic cannabis setups and making a meal of plants.

Below, you’ll learn everything you need to know about these critters, including how to identify them and how to banish them from your cultivation space.

Aphids

These minute sap-sucking insects target the phloem, or vascular system, of plants. These internal tubes ferry water and dissolved nutrients throughout the plant. Aphids use their mouthparts to puncture plant tissue and siphon this precious liquid.

A handful of aphids can satisfy their needs without doing too much harm, but they multiply fast. When their numbers get out of control, they can quickly suck a plant dry. Without enough circulating nutrients, hydroponic cannabis plants become stunted and deprived. There are around 5,000 species of aphids, and each one generally targets a particular plant species. The hemp aphid (Phorodon cannabis) has a ravenous appetite for, well, cannabis sap.

Root Aphids

Root aphids aren’t dissimilar to their above-ground cousins. Instead of sucking sap from leaves and stems, though, they target the roots. However, the life cycle starts on the aerial parts of the plant. Once the eggs hatch, these critters migrate downward. Yes, root aphids also impact hydroponic cannabis plants!

Spider Mites

Spider mites often show up in hydroponic cannabis grows. As a species of mite, the “spider” in their name merely refers to the silk webs they spin in order to protect their colonies from predators. These tiny pests hang out on the underside of leaves, frequently piercing plant tissue to feed on cells. Once a spider mite colony achieves a respectable size, it can do some real damage.

Fungus Gnats

Although they’re pests in the eyes of hydroponic cannabis growers, fungus gnats play a crucial ecological role. They feast on fungi in the soil, contribute to the decomposition of organic matter, and even carry pollen and fungal spores. Despite their vital function, fungus gnat larvae have a habit of damaging cannabis root hairs, and the adults carry diseases, such as “damping off”, that kill seedlings.

Whiteflies

Another sap-sucker, whiteflies also dwell on the underside of leaves. After dining on sap, they excrete a sticky substance that accumulates and attracts other pests and contributes to the growth of molds. Whiteflies can work their way through vents, or simply fly through open windows and doors, and lay their eggs in circular groups of 30–40 on cannabis leaves.

Thrips

Thrips love the conditions of indoor growing environments. The controlled temperatures, consistent lighting, and abundance of water in hydroponic setups is a haven for these creatures. Surprise, surprise—thrips also have a penchant for cannabis sap. Think about it. This rich substance contains all of the nutrients plants need to survive. Why wouldn’t they tuck in?

But thrips don’t just pose a direct physical threat to your hydroponic cannabis plants. This pest also carries over viruses that cause plant disease. You don’t want them anywhere near your indoor grow.

Pests Threatening Your Hydro Grow? — Go on the Offense!

There you have it; now you’re equipped with the knowledge to defend your hydroponic cannabis plants against the six major pests that are out to get them. Remember, just because you’re growing in a cosy indoor setting doesn’t mean these critters won’t find a way in. Make an effort to keep your space clean, and regularly inspect your plants and hydroponic system for issues. The earlier you detect the signs of an infestation, the better the odds of saving your precious plants.