Thriving in Extreme Heat: How Our Automated Hydroponic System Survived and Flourished in Scorching Conditions

Over the past two summers, I conducted a fascinating experiment in Mountain View, California, where the temperatures inside my greenhouse often soared past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, sometimes even surpassing the 130-degree mark, which maxed out my thermometer. The goal was simple yet ambitious: to see how my greenhouse and its inhabitants would cope with such extreme conditions, particularly with my automated hydroponic systems, specifically the Model M’s, which use grow bags filled with perlite.

The results were both surprising and illuminating.

The Experiment: Embracing the Heat

Rather than trying to cool down the greenhouse, I chose to let it reach its natural peak temperature. I kept all the windows closed, allowing the temperature and humidity to skyrocket. Inside, the automated hydroponic systems were put to the test under these harsh conditions. The temperature inside the greenhouse regularly hit 130 degrees with 100% humidity, creating an environment that would challenge even the hardiest of plants.

Cooling the Roots: The Key to Success

The magic lay in the design of the automated hydroponic systems. The Model M’s employed a wicking hydroponics system with grow bags filled with perlite. This system naturally cooled the water inside the grow bags due to the way the water was oxygenated. As the water dripped down, it created a significant amount of evaporation, which not only cooled the water but also the surrounding air. This cooling effect was crucial in keeping the roots of the plants at a much lower temperature than the surrounding air.

Despite the scorching heat, the roots remained cool, while the leaves basked in the super-humid, hot air. This combination turned out to be highly beneficial for certain plants.

The Results: Unexpected Resilience

I was amazed to see that many hardy plants not only survived but thrived in this environment. The kale, for instance, was incredibly tender and juicy, far surpassing what you might expect from such extreme conditions. Chard and certain Asian greens like tatsoi also did exceptionally well. The coolness at the roots combined with the hot, humid air created a perfect microenvironment for these plants.

Not all plants fared as well—mustard, for example, struggled in the heat—but the success with other crops was undeniable.

Conclusion: Growing in Extreme Conditions

This experiment demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of our automated hydroponic system, particularly in dealing with extreme temperatures. The wicking hydroponics system using perlite bags proved to be a powerful method for keeping plants healthy even in the most challenging environments.

If you’re facing the need to grow in extremely hot conditions, our automated hydroponic system could be the solution you’re looking for. The combination of cool roots and warm, humid air creates an environment where even tender greens can thrive against the odds. It’s a reminder that with the right approach, even the harshest conditions can be turned to your advantage.