The General Hydroponics Flora Series is a legendary three-part nutrient system trusted by indoor growers worldwide. This guide breaks down the complete feed chart to help you maximize plant health, flowering, and yields—no guesswork needed.
If you’re serious about indoor hydroponic growing, chances are you’ve heard of the General Hydroponics Flora Series. This three-part nutrient system has been a staple in grow rooms for over 40 years—and for good reason. Whether you’re growing leafy greens, herbs, or high-yield flowering plants like tomatoes or cannabis, the Flora Series gives you precise control over your plants’ nutrition. But here’s the catch: using it effectively means understanding the feed chart.
Many growers either underfeed, overfeed, or mix the parts incorrectly—leading to stunted growth, nutrient burn, or disappointing harvests. That’s where this guide comes in. We’re breaking down the General Hydroponics Flora Series feed chart step by step, so you can feed your plants like a pro and get the most out of every grow cycle.
Let’s dive into how this system works, when to use each component, and how to tailor the feeding schedule to your specific setup. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan to boost plant health, flowering, and overall yields—without the stress of trial and error.
Key Takeaways
- Three-part system: FloraGro, FloraMicro, and FloraBloom work together to support all growth stages—from seedling to harvest.
- Customizable ratios: Adjust the mix based on plant type, growth phase, and system type (e.g., DWC, drip, or NFT).
- pH stability: FloraMicro contains chelated micronutrients that help maintain optimal pH levels in your reservoir.
- Proven results: Used by professional growers for decades, this system delivers consistent, high-quality yields.
- Feed chart flexibility: Start with base recommendations, then fine-tune based on plant response and environment.
- Prevents deficiencies: Balanced N-P-K and essential trace elements reduce the risk of nutrient lockout and yellowing leaves.
- Easy to use: Mix in water, monitor EC/PPM, and adjust as needed—perfect for beginners and experts alike.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
What is the correct mixing order for the Flora Series?
Always mix in this order: FloraMicro first, then FloraGro, and finally FloraBloom. This prevents nutrient precipitation and ensures maximum availability.
Can I use the Flora Series in soil?
Yes, but it’s designed for hydroponics and soilless media. If using in soil, reduce strength by 25–50% to avoid overfeeding.
How often should I change my nutrient solution?
Change your reservoir every 7–10 days to prevent salt buildup and maintain nutrient balance.
What PPM should I aim for in flowering?
Most flowering plants thrive at 1000–1200 PPM, but taper down to 400–600 in the final 1–2 weeks during flush.
Can I pre-mix the Flora Series concentrates?
No. Pre-mixing can cause chemical reactions that render nutrients unusable. Always mix fresh in water.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is the General Hydroponics Flora Series?
The General Hydroponics Flora Series is a three-part liquid nutrient system designed specifically for hydroponic and soilless growing. It consists of:
– FloraGro: Promotes strong root development and vegetative growth. High in nitrogen (N) and potassium (K).
– FloraMicro: Provides essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese. Also contains a balanced base of nitrogen and calcium.
– FloraBloom: Fuels flowering and fruiting with higher levels of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).
Together, these three components form a complete nutritional foundation. Unlike single-part nutrients, the Flora Series allows you to customize the nutrient profile based on your plant’s needs. This flexibility is what makes it so powerful—and why it’s used by both hobbyists and commercial growers.
Why Choose the Flora Series Over Other Nutrients?
There are dozens of hydroponic nutrient brands on the market, but the Flora Series stands out for several reasons:
– Proven track record: Developed in the 1970s, it’s one of the most tested and trusted systems available.
– Scientific formulation: Each part is engineered to work synergistically, preventing nutrient imbalances.
– Versatility: Works in all hydroponic systems—deep water culture (DWC), ebb and flow, drip systems, aeroponics, and even coco coir.
– Consistency: Every batch is rigorously tested for purity and potency.
Whether you’re growing in a small closet setup or a large-scale indoor farm, the Flora Series scales with your operation.
Understanding the Flora Series Feed Chart
Visual guide about Ultimate General Hydroponics Flora Series Feed Chart Guide for Maximum Yields
Image source: edge.generalhydroponics.com
The feed chart is your roadmap to success. It tells you how much of each component to use at different stages of growth. General Hydroponics provides a standard feed chart, but it’s important to remember: it’s a starting point, not a rigid rule.
Most feed charts are divided into four main phases:
1. Seedling/Clone Stage (Weeks 1–2): Focus on root development and early growth.
2. Vegetative Stage (Weeks 3–6): Promote leafy growth and strong stems.
3. Early Flowering/Transition (Weeks 7–8): Shift from growth to bloom.
4. Mid to Late Flowering (Weeks 9–12+): Maximize bud or fruit development.
Let’s walk through each phase with practical examples.
Seedling & Clone Stage (Weeks 1–2)
At this stage, your plants are delicate and need gentle nutrition. Overfeeding can shock young roots.
– Recommended mix: 0.5 mL/L of FloraGro + 0.5 mL/L of FloraMicro + 0.5 mL/L of FloraBloom
– Total PPM: 200–300
– pH: 5.5–6.0
Tip: Use a mild solution and increase gradually. If you’re starting from seeds, wait until the first true leaves appear before feeding.
Vegetative Stage (Weeks 3–6)
This is when your plants put on serious growth. They need more nitrogen to support lush foliage.
– Recommended mix: 2 mL/L of FloraGro + 1.5 mL/L of FloraMicro + 1 mL/L of FloraBloom
– Total PPM: 600–800
– pH: 5.8–6.2
Example: If you’re growing lettuce or basil, you can stay in this phase longer. For flowering plants, begin transitioning around week 6.
Early Flowering/Transition (Weeks 7–8)
Now it’s time to shift the balance toward bloom. Reduce nitrogen and increase phosphorus and potassium.
– Recommended mix: 1 mL/L of FloraGro + 1.5 mL/L of FloraMicro + 2 mL/L of FloraBloom
– Total PPM: 800–1000
– pH: 6.0–6.4
Tip: Watch for pre-flowers (small buds at nodes) to confirm the transition. This is also a good time to introduce bloom boosters if needed.
Mid to Late Flowering (Weeks 9–12+)
This is where yields are made. Maximize phosphorus and potassium for dense, resinous flowers or large fruits.
– Recommended mix: 0.5 mL/L of FloraGro + 1.5 mL/L of FloraMicro + 3 mL/L of FloraBloom
– Total PPM: 1000–1200 (tapering down in final weeks)
– pH: 6.0–6.5
Important: In the last 1–2 weeks, begin flushing with plain pH-balanced water to remove excess nutrients and improve flavor.
How to Mix and Apply the Flora Series
Visual guide about Ultimate General Hydroponics Flora Series Feed Chart Guide for Maximum Yields
Image source: growbarato.net
Mixing the Flora Series is simple, but there’s a right way to do it to avoid nutrient lockout.
Step-by-Step Mixing Guide
1. Fill your reservoir with fresh, pH-balanced water (5.5–6.5).
2. Add FloraMicro first. It contains chelated minerals that stabilize the solution.
3. Add FloraGro next. This supports structural growth.
4. Add FloraBloom last. It’s more concentrated and can react if added too early.
5. Stir gently and let the solution sit for 10–15 minutes.
6. Check PPM/EC and pH. Adjust as needed before feeding.
Pro Tip: Always mix in a clean container. Never pre-mix concentrates—they can precipitate and become unusable.
Monitoring and Adjusting
Even with a perfect feed chart, your plants will tell you what they need. Here’s how to read the signs:
– Yellowing lower leaves: Could indicate nitrogen deficiency or overwatering.
– Leaf tip burn: Often a sign of overfeeding or high PPM.
– Slow growth: May mean insufficient nutrients or poor oxygenation.
– Dark green leaves: Usually a good sign, but could mean too much nitrogen in flowering.
Use a TDS meter (PPM) or EC meter to track nutrient strength. Aim to change your reservoir every 7–10 days to prevent salt buildup.
Customizing the Feed Chart for Your Setup
Not all grows are the same. Your environment, plant type, and system will influence how you use the Flora Series.
Different Hydroponic Systems
– DWC (Deep Water Culture): Plants drink more frequently. Monitor PPM daily and top off with mild nutrient solution.
– Drip Systems: Use slightly stronger mixes since nutrients are delivered directly to roots.
– Aeroponics: Requires precise timing. Use lower PPM to avoid clogging misters.
– Coco Coir: Holds nutrients well. Reduce feeding frequency but maintain strength.
Plant-Specific Adjustments
– Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Kale): Stay vegetative longer. Use higher FloraGro ratios.
– Fruiting Plants (Tomatoes, Peppers): Need strong bloom support. Increase FloraBloom in flowering.
– Cannabis: Requires precise N-P-K shifts. Many growers use a 4-week veg, 8-week bloom schedule.
Example: A tomato grower might use 3 mL/L FloraBloom in week 10, while a lettuce grower might never exceed 1 mL/L.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced growers make errors. Here are the top pitfalls and how to dodge them.
Overfeeding
Adding too much nutrient too soon is the #1 mistake. Symptoms include burnt leaf tips, curled leaves, and stalled growth.
Solution: Start low, go slow. Follow the feed chart as a guide, not a mandate.
Incorrect Mixing Order
Adding FloraBloom before FloraMicro can cause precipitation—nutrients fall out of solution and become useless.
Solution: Always follow the order: Micro → Gro → Bloom.
Ignoring pH
Nutrients can’t be absorbed if pH is off. Most plants absorb best between 5.5 and 6.5.
Solution: Test pH daily. Use pH Up or Down to adjust.
Not Flushing
Skipping the flush before harvest leads to harsh-tasting crops.
Solution: Flush for 7–14 days with plain water to clear residual salts.
Tips for Maximum Yields
Want to push your grow to the next level? Try these expert-backed strategies.
– Use a cal-mag supplement: Especially in soft water areas, calcium and magnesium are crucial.
– Add beneficial microbes: Products like SubCulture B enhance root health and nutrient uptake.
– Maintain clean systems: Algae and biofilm can harbor pathogens. Clean reservoirs weekly.
– Track everything: Keep a grow journal. Note PPM, pH, growth rate, and plant responses.
– Experiment wisely: Change one variable at a time so you know what works.
With the right approach, the Flora Series can deliver explosive growth and heavy harvests—cycle after cycle.
Conclusion
The General Hydroponics Flora Series is more than just a nutrient system—it’s a complete growing solution. By mastering the feed chart, you gain precise control over your plants’ development, from seedling to harvest. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grower, this guide gives you the tools to optimize nutrition, prevent problems, and maximize yields.
Remember: the feed chart is your starting point, not your final destination. Watch your plants, adjust as needed, and don’t be afraid to tweak the ratios. With consistency and care, the Flora Series will help you grow healthier, stronger, and more productive plants—every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Flora Series suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Flora Series is beginner-friendly due to its clear feed chart and reliable performance. Just follow the instructions and monitor your plants closely.
Can I use the Flora Series with other additives?
Absolutely. It pairs well with bloom boosters, enzymes, and microbial inoculants. Just add them after the base nutrients are mixed.
Why are my leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing can result from nutrient deficiency, overwatering, or pH imbalance. Check your feed chart, reservoir schedule, and pH levels to diagnose the issue.
How do I adjust the feed chart for small plants?
For seedlings or small clones, use half the recommended strength. Increase gradually as roots develop and plants grow.
What’s the difference between FloraGro and FloraBloom?
FloraGro is high in nitrogen for vegetative growth, while FloraBloom is rich in phosphorus and potassium to support flowering and fruiting.
Do I need to flush before harvest?
Yes. Flushing removes excess nutrients from the plant, resulting in cleaner, smoother-tasting harvests—especially important for herbs and cannabis.