From my perspective, a hydroponic system is a perfect, controlled environment where my roots are constantly bathed in a perfectly balanced nutrient solution. I don't have to waste energy searching for food and water in vast, unpredictable soil. Instead, my entire existence focuses on vigorous upward growth and producing my aromatic oils. The key for you is to choose a system that provides excellent oxygen to my roots. I thrive in systems like Deep Water Culture (DWC), where my roots dangle in a aerated nutrient bath, or in a drip system that periodically feeds me. Avoid systems that keep my roots too wet without oxygen, as I am very susceptible to root rot.
I am not a heavy feeder compared to plants like tomatoes. A balanced, general-purpose hydroponic nutrient solution with an Electrical Conductivity (EC) between 1.0 and 1.6 is ideal for my sustained growth. The pH of my nutrient bath is absolutely critical. My roots can only absorb nutrients efficiently if the solution is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Please monitor this regularly; if the pH drifts, I will show signs of nutrient deficiency (like yellowing leaves) even if food is present, because I cannot access it.
As a Mediterranean native, I crave abundant light and warmth. I need a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct, intense light each day. If you are growing me indoors, this means powerful full-spectrum LED or fluorescent grow lights placed close to my canopy (about 6-12 inches away) to prevent me from becoming leggy as I stretch for more light. I prefer daytime temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). While I can tolerate cooler nights, I will struggle and my growth will stall if I get too cold.
Do not be afraid to harvest my stems regularly! From my point of view, a good pruning is not an injury; it is a signal to grow bushier and more dense. When you snip a stem just above a set of leaves, you encourage two new branches to sprout from that node. This prevents me from becoming woody and sparse. Always leave some green growth on me so I can continue to photosynthesize. This process keeps me productive and shapely for a much longer period.
I will communicate my needs to you. If my leaves are pale green or yellow, I am likely hungry for nitrogen or my pH is off. If my tips are brown and crispy, my nutrient solution might be too strong (high EC) or I am not getting enough water. Drooping leaves could mean my roots are too wet and lack oxygen. Wilting under strong light means I may be thirsty or my root system is compromised. By observing these signals and adjusting my environment accordingly, you can ensure I remain a vibrant and productive plant.
