Frequently Asked Questions

The SHIVA tasak is a pre-measured single-dose sachet containing exactly one portion of plant nutrients for 5 litres of irrigation water. No weighing, no calculations – just open and pour into water.

• Fill a watering can with approx. 1 litre of water
• Open the SHIVA tasak and pour into the water
• Stir, then top up to 5 litres
• Measure pH and adjust if necessary
• Water your plants

1 SHIVA tasak = 5 litres of nutrient solution = 1 watering for 4–5 container plants (approx. 8–15 litre pots) or 1 m² of outdoor growing area.

An unopened SHIVA tasak has a shelf life of at least 24 months when stored in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight (5–30 °C). The micronised powder format is ideal for long-term storage.

Following the correct mixing order is essential to prevent precipitation and nutrient lockout:

• SHIVA pH Down – adjust pH first (if needed)
• NPK nutrient – Boost / Grow / Bloom / Finisher / Aromatica
• SHIVA AMINO+ – add biostimulant after the NPK
• Top up to 5 litres – stir well
• pH check – always measure pH AFTER preparing the solution!

Any clean water source works, but it helps to know the characteristics of your supply:

The volume should be guided by pot/bed size and current substrate moisture. General rule: aim for approximately 15–20% of the pot volume per watering session.

Check method: 30 minutes after watering, push a finger into the substrate – if the top 2–3 cm are moist, the watering was sufficient. If still dry, water again.

EC (Electrical Conductivity) measures the total concentration of dissolved minerals and nutrients in your irrigation water. Unit: mS/cm (millisiemens per centimetre).

The higher the EC, the more nutrients are in solution – but too high an EC causes nutrient burn at the roots (osmotic stress).

• Calibrate the meter – most EC meters use a 1.41 mS/cm calibration solution
• Rinse the probe with distilled water
• Submerge the electrodes in your nutrient solution (at least 2–3 cm deep)
• Wait for the reading to stabilise (5–10 seconds)
• Record the value and compare against your target
• Rinse with clean water after use and store dry

The EC of runoff water (liquid draining from the bottom of the pot) shows how much nutrients the plant has absorbed and whether salt build-up is occurring in the root zone.

Always measure pH AFTER preparing the solution! Adding nutrients changes the pH of the water – if you measure beforehand, the reading is not relevant.

• Prepare the nutrient solution (vial → mix → top up to 5 litres)
• Wait for the solution to homogenise (after 30–60 sec of stirring)
• Measure pH in the finished solution
• If needed, add SHIVA pH Down and re-measure
• Water your plants

Regular calibration is essential for accurate readings. Budget pH pens should be calibrated weekly; more precise instruments monthly.

• Prepare calibration buffers (typically pH 7.0 and pH 4.0 solutions)
• Dip probe into pH 7.0 buffer – set meter to 7.0
• Rinse with distilled water, then dip into pH 4.0 buffer to verify
• Rinse and measure your actual solution

There is a chemical incompatibility between SHIVA Cal+ (calcium nitrate) and the phosphate content of NPK nutrients:

Ca²⁺ + PO₄³⁻ → Ca₃(PO₄)₂ ↓ (white precipitate)

This calcium phosphate precipitate blocks drip emitters, root pores, and permanently reduces phosphorus uptake.

SHIVA AMINO+ L-amino acid complex acts as a biostimulant – it promotes nutrient uptake, increases stress tolerance, and improves yield. It is suitable for use:

• Alongside NPK nutrients (automatic when using the Duplex Vial)
• After stress events (transplanting, heatwaves, drought, pest attack)
• During flowering and fruit set to support yield
• During the root development phase

SHIVA Plant Wash is a fungal and pest prevention product with EU Basic Substance status. Foliar spray only – it must NEVER be added to irrigation water.

• Dissolve 2.2 g in 200 ml of water
• Top up to 1 litre and stir
• Fill a spray bottle and apply evenly to foliage
• Spray in the morning or evening – NEVER in direct sunlight!
• Stop spraying 48 hours before harvest

A flush is the final 1–2 week period before harvest during which only plain water is given. The aim is to leach accumulated salts out of the substrate.

For cannabis, flushing is recommended from week 13–14. For fruit and vegetables, stop feeding 2 weeks before harvest.

White precipitate almost always means that Cal+ was mixed with another nutrient (calcium phosphate reaction), or that the water pH is very high (above 8.5), causing calcium carbonate to fall out of solution.

Prevention: follow the correct mixing order (pH Down → NPK → Amino+) and always apply Cal+ separately.

If 100% of the irrigation water stays in the substrate (no runoff), it usually means:

• The substrate was very dry and absorbed everything (acceptable on the first watering)
• The volume applied was too small
• The substrate is compacted or clay-heavy and drains poorly

Technically possible, but not recommended for the following reasons:

• The SHIVA system is built around calibrated NPK ratios – adding third-party products can upset the balance
• Certain nutrient combinations may react chemically (precipitation)
• EC and pH become unpredictable

Yes. The GreenGro SHIVA system was specifically designed to be safe and foolproof, even for first-time growers. The pre-measured single-dose format eliminates dosing errors entirely.

The micronised powder format enables precise dosing, is easy to store, requires no measuring equipment, provides a stable composition, and is ideal for small grow tents and grow boxes alike.

Yes, suitable for all growing media.

Yes. At the end of the cycle, transition to a reduced nutrient solution (SHIVA Finisher), followed by plain pH-adjusted water for the final two weeks before harvest.

Yes. The micronised powders dissolve completely and will not clog drip emitters or irrigation lines.

The SHIVA Master Pack is a complete cannabis nutrient system designed for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Pack contents:

Micronised powder offers several advantages over liquid nutrient concentrates:

• Longer shelf life – does not spoil
• Compact storage and easy transport
• Precise dosing – no measuring errors
• Fewer fillers and stabilisers
• Dissolves completely in water – does not block drip systems

The SHIVA Master Pack is compatible with the following media:

• Soil / potting compost
• Coco coir
• Perlite + coco mix
• Hydroponic systems (NFT, DWC, Ebb & Flow)

Chelation is a chemical process in which metal ions (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu) are encapsulated by organic molecules to protect them from precipitation. The result:

• Remain plant-available across a wider pH range
• Can be taken up directly through roots
• Do not react with phosphate and precipitate out of solution

Start SHIVA Grow at the onset of the vegetative stage, once the first true leaves have appeared (typically 1–2 weeks after germination). During the seedling phase, use a half-dose for the first 2 weeks.

Standard dose: 9 g / 10 litres (0.9 g/L). Seedling stage: 4–5 g / 10 litres. Always measure EC after mixing – target range in the vegetative phase: 1.2–1.8 mS/cm.

1. Fill watering can with room-temperature water
2. Add SHIVA pH Down (if needed) – stir, then measure
3. Add SHIVA Grow – stir for 1–2 minutes
4. Add SHIVA Amino+ – continue stirring
5. Check pH (target: 6.2–6.8 soil; 5.8–6.2 coco) and verify EC
6. Water plants, then 30 minutes later apply Cal+ separately (if required)

Slight cloudiness is normal and clears when stirred. If a white precipitate forms and does not dissolve, check:

• Whether Cal+ was added to the same can – this causes calcium phosphate precipitation
• Whether the water pH is too high (above 8.5, calcium carbonate can precipitate)

The 12-6-30 ratio is well suited to the vegetative phase:

• N (12): vigorous, green foliage and rapid stem elongation
• P (6): supports root development
• K (30): cell wall strengthening and improved disease resistance

Yes. SHIVA Grow contains EDDHA-chelated iron, which remains active in the pH range 5.0–9.0 – unlike EDTA chelate, which becomes unavailable above pH 6.5. This is especially important when using alkaline tap water.

Flip the light schedule from 18/6 to 12/12, and begin SHIVA Bloom as soon as the first flower sites appear (typically 1–2 weeks after the light flip). For autoflowering varieties, switch when the first pistils emerge.

During the flowering phase, the plant redirects its energy toward bud development:

• Phosphorus (P): central element of ATP energy transfer – essential for floral development
• Potassium (K): regulates stomata, increases terpenoid and cannabinoid levels, hardens buds

The lower nitrogen content prevents a vegetative rebound (re-vegging).

Yes, SHIVA Bloom also contains secondary macronutrients (Ca, Mg, S) and chelated trace elements. With coco coir or very soft water, additional SHIVA Cal+ may be needed (30 minutes after the NPK round, from a separate can).

If flowering is progressing slowly or buds are airy and loose:

• Check EC – flowering target is 1.6–2.2 mS/cm
• Check pH – P uptake is suppressed below pH 6.2
• Add SHIVA Boost during the first 3 weeks of flowering

Store in a dry, cool location in a sealed package. Avoid direct sunlight and humidity – the powder is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air), which can cause clumping but does not reduce efficacy. Simply break up any clumps and continue using.

Both are flowering nutrients, but with different purposes:

Boost does not replace Bloom – it complements it to meet the higher phosphorus and nitrogen demand at the start of flowering and during root establishment.

No. SHIVA Boost is an NPK + trace element nutrient. Mycorrhizae are contained in the SHIVA tasak Starter, which is used during germination and rooting – not during the flowering phase.

Yes, SHIVA Boost is compatible with biological soil amendments. Important guidelines:

• Do not add live bacteria directly to the nutrient solution – always apply dry to the substrate or as a separate drench
• High EC levels (above 2.0 mS/cm) can reduce microbial activity

• After the first 3–4 weeks of flowering – the P content of Bloom is then sufficient
• If the plant shows signs of phosphorus excess (very dark green leaves, tips curling)
• During the Finisher phase – no additional phosphorus is needed at that stage

Yes. Amino+ and Boost can be added to the same watering can – they do not react with each other and cause no precipitation. Amino+ also helps enhance the uptake of the phosphorus in Boost.

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins – plants normally synthesise them from nitrogen, which requires energy. Ready-made L-amino acids:

• Are immediately bioavailable, with no energy cost for synthesis
• Chelate trace elements and improve their uptake
• Stimulate enzymatic activity and chlorophyll production
• Increase stress tolerance (heat, drought, chemical stress)

SHIVA Amino+ contains an L-amino acid complex, including:

• Glutamic acid: nitrogen transport, chlorophyll synthesis
• Proline: stress tolerance, osmotic protection
• Glycine: chelation, trace element transport
• Alanine: rapid N source, energy metabolism
• Lysine, Threonine: protein synthesis, cell regeneration

Under stress conditions (heat, pH swings, transplanting, nutrient deficiency) the plant's energy reserves drop. Amino+ acts in these situations:

• As a direct N source, bypassing the energy-intensive nitrate reduction pathway
• Proline acts as an osmoprotectant – protects cell membranes from dehydration
• Stimulates root regeneration after transplanting

Completely different functions:

• Amino+: biostimulant – amino acids, enzyme activity, stress tolerance, improved trace element uptake
• Boost: nutrient – high nitrogen + phosphorus to initiate flowering and support root establishment

Ideal to use together during the first 3–4 weeks of flowering.

Yes. Amino+ can be sprayed at a dilution of 0.5 g / 1 litre onto foliage. Apply 30–60 minutes before lights-off so the leaf surface dries before the dark period. Do not combine with Plant Wash in the same spray session.

Yes. The SHIVA Master Pack includes Grow, Bloom, Boost, Amino+, and Finisher as a complete unit – sufficient quantity for a full grow cycle.

Introduce Finisher during the last 2–3 weeks before harvest – typically from week 10–11 of flowering (photoperiod strains). For autoflowering varieties, start Finisher approximately 3 weeks before the expected harvest date.

High potassium (K) during the ripening stage:

• Maximises terpenoid and cannabinoid synthesis
• Hardens and densifies buds
• Improves tissue density and reduces susceptibility to mould
• Supports the plant's natural senescence and ripening process

In the Finisher phase, phosphorus (P) is the key driver of ATP energy metabolism for the ripening process. However, P levels should not be pushed higher – the Finisher formula maintains the ideal K:P ratio and prevents phosphorus accumulation, which can cause a harsh or bitter taste at harvest.

After Finisher comes the flush – water only with plain, pH-adjusted water for 1–2 weeks. The goal is to leach accumulated salts from the substrate, improving the flavour profile and overall quality of the harvest.

During the Finisher phase, only SHIVA Finisher + pH Down is recommended. Amino+ can be omitted; Bloom and Boost must not be added to the can. Plant Wash can still be used during this phase, but stop all foliar spraying at least 2 weeks before harvest.

The active substance in SHIVA Plant Wash is citric acid, which works by:

• Acidifying the leaf surface – most fungal pathogens and insects thrive at alkaline or neutral pH
• Physically removing spores and mites from leaf surfaces
• Leaving no toxic residue on the plant
• EU Basic Substance status – approved under EU Regulation 1107/2009

Plant Wash is primarily a preventative product, but also effective against early-stage infestations:

• Powdery mildew – prevention and early treatment
• Botrytis (grey mould) – prevention
• Spider mites – mechanical removal, reproduction inhibition
• Thrips, aphids – surface-level effect

Always spray 30–60 minutes before lights-off. Reasons:

• Wet leaves under intense light act as a lens and cause burn spots
• During the dark period, foliage dries out without remaining overly wet
• Reduces botrytis risk from wet buds

After spraying, relative humidity in the grow space temporarily spikes. Without ventilation:

• High RH (85%+) = elevated botrytis risk
• Wet buds are more susceptible to fungal infection

Yes. The active substance in SHIVA Plant Wash is citric acid, which holds EU Basic Substance status under EU Regulation 1107/2009 – meaning it requires no pesticide registration and is food-safe. Last application: 48 hours before harvest.

• Under intense lighting (burn risk)
• When ambient relative humidity is already high (75%+)
• Within 48 hours of harvest
• Immediately after watering (excessive substrate moisture)
• Never in irrigation water – foliar spray only!

Not necessarily. A rotation is recommended:

• 1–2 waterings with nutrient solution
• 1 watering with plain pH-adjusted water (flushes excess salts)

With coco coir, you can feed every watering (low buffer capacity). With soil, feeding every 2–3 waterings is sufficient.

Nutrient burn occurs when EC is too high – the salt concentration exceeds the plant's uptake capacity, causing leaf tips to brown and curl.

Prevention:

• Always measure EC after adding nutrients
• Start at 75% of the recommended dose and increase gradually
• Maintain 10–20% runoff at each watering

Always check pH first – most apparent deficiencies are actually nutrient lockout caused by incorrect pH. If pH is correct:

• N deficiency (lower leaves yellowing): increase Grow/Bloom dose by 20%
• Fe/Mg deficiency (young leaves yellowing): lower pH to 6.0–6.2 + add Amino+
• P deficiency (reddish-purple leaves): raise pH above 6.2, add Boost
• Ca deficiency (distorted young leaves): apply Cal+ in a separate watering

Watering frequency depends on the substrate, pot size, and growth stage. General rule: water when the surface is dry but the interior still holds slight moisture.

• Soil: typically every 2–3 days
• Coco: daily or every other day
• Hydro: continuous or scheduled nutrient solution feed

Rule of thumb: 10–20% of pot volume per watering, always aiming for 10–20% runoff. Example: 10-litre pot → 1–2 litres per watering session.

Water 1–2 hours after lights come on – this mirrors the natural daily rhythm. Plants are most actively taking up water in the early hours of the "day". Avoid watering in the evening or during the dark period to prevent excess moisture sitting in the root zone overnight.

10–20% runoff ensures that:

• No salt build-up occurs in the root zone
• The entire substrate is evenly saturated
• Runoff EC accurately reflects root zone conditions (if higher than feed EC, salt accumulation is present)

Bud density is primarily determined by genetics, but the SHIVA system maximises the plant's potential:

• Bloom + Boost: high P+K to initiate flowering and harden buds
• Finisher: high K in the ripening phase to increase calyx density
• Amino+: amino acids stimulate enzymatic activity and terpenoid synthesis

Light is the single most important factor alongside nutrients. PPFD (µmol/m²/s) directly correlates with flowering productivity. Below 600 µmol, buds will be airy and stretched. The SHIVA nutrient system is optimised for a light intensity of 600–900 µmol.

CO₂ supplementation only delivers a meaningful return when:

• Light intensity reaches 900+ µmol PPFD
• Temperature and humidity are already optimal (26–30 °C, 50–60% RH)
• The nutrient and irrigation programme is already dialled in

Photoperiod cannabis strains measure the season by the 12-hour uninterrupted dark period. If light penetrates the dark phase:

• The plant misinterprets it as daytime – it may revert to vegetative growth
• Hermaphroditism can develop (male flower parts appearing on female plants)
• Pre-flower initiation is disrupted

The most reliable method:

1. Wait for the dark period
2. Turn off all room and hallway lights
3. Stand in front of the tent for 5 minutes until your eyes adjust
4. Look for light gaps at zips, vents, and cable pass-throughs

The threshold varies by strain, but generally:

• Safe: complete darkness (0 lux)
• Risky: 1–5 lux (dim night light)
• Dangerous: 5+ lux (visible light source)

For reference: a full moon produces approx. 0.1–0.3 lux. An LED indicator light at 1–3 metres produces approx. 0.5–2 lux.

If a plant experiences light stress and enters a period of light confusion:

• Mixed flowering/vegetative signs appear (foxtailing, re-emergence of single-finger leaves)
• Hermaphroditism – male flower structures (bananas) appear
• Airy buds with reduced quality