Green Clean: Elevate Your Cannabis Cultivation with Sodium Hypochlorite Sanitization
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Green Clean: Elevate Your Cannabis Cultivation with Sodium Hypochlorite Sanitization
The definitive guide to pathogen elimination, dilution protocols, sanitization schedules, and facility hygiene for commercial cannabis operations
In This Guide
- Why Sodium Hypochlorite Dominates Grow Room Sanitization
- Pathogen Efficacy: What Bleach Kills in Cannabis Grows
- Dilution Guide: Concentration for Every Task
- Sanitization Schedule by Grow Phase
- Daily & Weekly Sanitization Protocols
- NaOCl vs. H2O2 vs. Peracetic Acid: Head-to-Head Comparison
- Surface & Equipment Sanitization Protocols
- Water Treatment for Cannabis Irrigation
- Supporting Chemicals for Cannabis Facilities
- Safety Guidelines & PPE Requirements
- Compliance & Documentation
- Frequently Asked Questions
In cannabis cultivation, sanitation is not optional. It is the single most important variable separating premium harvests from catastrophic crop losses. Pathogens like Hop Latent Viroid (HpLVd), powdery mildew, Botrytis, and Fusarium can silently devastate an entire grow operation, reducing potency, yield, and market value overnight. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)—the active ingredient in bleach—remains the gold standard for commercial grow room sanitization, delivering broad-spectrum pathogen elimination at a fraction of the cost of specialty disinfectants.
This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of NaOCl use in cannabis cultivation: dilution protocols for every application, pathogen-specific efficacy data, phase-by-phase sanitization schedules, head-to-head comparisons with alternative disinfectants, surface and equipment protocols with exact contact times, chemical safety best practices, and the supporting chemicals that keep your facility compliant and your plants thriving.
Why Sodium Hypochlorite Dominates Grow Room Sanitization
Sodium hypochlorite is the workhorse disinfectant of professional agriculture, municipal water treatment, food processing, and healthcare. At 12.5% concentration, it is the professional-grade formulation used by commercial cannabis facilities worldwide. Here is why it consistently outperforms alternatives in cannabis grow environments:
Broad-Spectrum Efficacy
NaOCl eliminates bacteria, fungi, viruses, viroids, algae, and biofilms. Unlike narrow-spectrum disinfectants, a single bleach solution addresses every microbial threat in cannabis cultivation, from Pythium root rot to Tobacco Mosaic Virus.
Rapid Oxidation Mechanism
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl)—the active species formed when NaOCl dissolves in water—penetrates pathogen cell walls and destroys proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids within minutes. This oxidative damage is irreversible and non-selective.
Unmatched Cost Efficiency
At approximately $0.05–$0.10 per gallon of working solution, NaOCl costs 5–20x less than quaternary ammonium compounds, peracetic acid, or specialty cannabis disinfectants. For large commercial operations running thousands of square feet, this savings is substantial.
Zero Residual Buildup
NaOCl breaks down into sodium chloride (salt) and water, leaving no persistent chemical residue on surfaces. This is critical for cannabis cultivators concerned about residual contamination affecting flower quality or compliance testing. Compare this with the green chemistry principles guiding modern agriculture.
Additionally, sodium hypochlorite has an unbroken track record spanning more than a century in water purification and food safety. It is EPA-registered, well-documented, and understood by regulators—which simplifies compliance documentation for licensed cannabis operations. When stored properly using appropriate chemical storage protocols, 12.5% NaOCl maintains potency for 3–6 months.
Pathogen Efficacy: What Bleach Kills in Cannabis Grows
Cannabis cultivation facilities face a unique constellation of microbial threats, from soil-borne fungi to mechanically transmitted viroids. Sodium hypochlorite is effective against all of them when used at proper concentrations and contact times. The following table summarizes the major cannabis pathogens and the NaOCl protocols required to neutralize each one:
| Pathogen | Type | Threat to Cannabis | NaOCl Effective? | Min. Contact Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hop Latent Viroid (HpLVd) | Viroid | Causes "dudding"—stunted growth, reduced potency by 30–50% | Yes (10% solution) | 10 minutes |
| Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) | Virus | Leaf mottling, chlorosis, 20–30% yield reduction | Yes (5% solution) | 5–10 minutes |
| Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe) | Fungus | White coating on leaves, blocks photosynthesis, fails compliance testing | Yes | 5 minutes |
| Botrytis cinerea (Bud Rot) | Fungus | Destroys flowers during late bloom, total crop loss risk | Yes | 5 minutes |
| Fusarium oxysporum | Fungus | Root rot, vascular wilt, rapid plant death | Yes | 10 minutes |
| Pythium spp. | Oomycete | Damping off in seedlings, root rot in hydroponic systems | Yes | 10 minutes |
| Aspergillus spp. | Fungus | Post-harvest mold, fails microbial testing, health hazard | Yes | 10 minutes |
| Ralstonia solanacearum | Bacterium | Bacterial wilt, clogs vascular tissue | Yes | 5 minutes |
| Biofilm Colonies | Bacterial matrix | Clogs irrigation lines, harbors resistant pathogens | Yes (extended soak) | 20–30 minutes |
| Algae | Photosynthetic | Blocks drippers, nutrient competition, harbors fungus gnats | Yes | 5–10 minutes |
Dilution Guide: Concentration for Every Task
Getting the dilution right is mission-critical. A solution that is too weak simply makes surfaces damp without killing pathogens; a solution that is too strong risks corroding equipment, damaging finishes, and leaving harmful residues. The following protocols are calibrated for 12.5% sodium hypochlorite—the professional-grade concentration. If you are using a different starting concentration, adjust your ratios proportionally.
| Task | Target ppm | Dilution Ratio (12.5% NaOCl) | Contact Time | Rinse Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tool sterilization (HpLVd) | ~10,000 ppm | 1:1 (equal parts bleach & water) | 10 min soak | Yes—air dry |
| General tool sterilization | 5,000 ppm | 1:2 | 5–10 min | Yes |
| Surface sanitization (benches, trays) | 1,000–2,000 ppm | 1:6 to 1:12 | 10 min | Yes |
| Floor/wall deep clean | 2,000–5,000 ppm | 1:3 to 1:6 | 10–15 min | Yes |
| Hydroponic system flush | 50–200 ppm | 1:500 to 1:2,000 | 30 min recirculate | Flush 3x with clean water |
| Irrigation line cleaning | 200–500 ppm | 1:200 to 1:500 | 20–30 min | Flush 3x with clean water |
| Reservoir sanitization | 500–1,000 ppm | 1:12 to 1:25 | 30 min soak | Flush thoroughly |
| General surface misting (daily) | 200–500 ppm | 1:200 to 1:500 | Air dry | No |
| Post-harvest room fogger | 1,000–2,000 ppm | 1:6 to 1:12 | 2–4 hours sealed | Ventilate before entry |
Sanitization Schedule by Grow Phase
Cannabis plants have different vulnerability profiles at each stage of their lifecycle. A one-size-fits-all sanitization approach wastes resources during low-risk phases and under-protects during critical windows. The following phase-specific schedule optimizes both efficacy and efficiency:
| Grow Phase | Duration | Key Threats | Sanitization Focus | NaOCl Protocol | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propagation / Cloning | 1–2 weeks | HpLVd transmission, Pythium, damping off | Tool sterilization, clone dome sanitization, tray cleaning | 10,000 ppm tools; 1,000 ppm surfaces | Every plant contact; daily surfaces |
| Vegetative Growth | 3–8 weeks | Powdery mildew, Fusarium, pest introduction | Pruning tool sterilization, floor/bench cleaning, HVAC maintenance | 5,000–10,000 ppm tools; 2,000 ppm surfaces | Each pruning; 2x weekly surfaces |
| Transition / Flip | 1–2 weeks | Stress-induced pathogen susceptibility | Deep facility clean before flip, irrigation flush | 5,000 ppm surfaces; 200 ppm system flush | Once before transition |
| Early Flower | Weeks 1–4 | Powdery mildew, Botrytis establishment | Environmental control, reduced foliar contact, bench sanitization | 1,000–2,000 ppm surfaces only | Daily surfaces; minimize plant zone spraying |
| Late Flower / Ripening | Weeks 5–9+ | Botrytis bud rot, Aspergillus | Maintain low humidity, sanitize non-plant surfaces, avoid all direct plant contact with solutions | 500–1,000 ppm walkways; NO plant-zone spraying | Daily walkways; hands-off plant zone |
| Harvest | 1–3 days | Cross-contamination between rooms, tool-borne pathogens | Sterilize all cutting tools between plants, sanitize trim bins and surfaces | 10,000 ppm tools; 2,000 ppm surfaces | Between every plant |
| Room Turnover | 3–7 days | Residual spores, biofilm, soil debris | Total facility deep clean: floors, walls, ceiling, HVAC, irrigation | 5,000 ppm surfaces; 200 ppm irrigation flush | Complete before new cycle |
Daily & Weekly Sanitization Protocols
Consistency separates professional operations from hobbyist grows. The following protocols should be printed, laminated, and posted in every grow room. Document every cleaning session for compliance records—regulators and auditors want to see systematic hygiene logs.
Daily Protocol (Every Shift)
- Wipe all work surfaces with 1,000 ppm solution before and after each work session
- Soak pruning shears, scissors, and scalpels in 10% bleach (10,000 ppm) for 10 minutes between each plant contact
- Mist walkways and non-plant surfaces with 200–500 ppm solution
- Change nitrile gloves between cultivar zones or after handling suspect plants
- Verify solution strength using chlorine test strips—remix if below target ppm
- End-of-shift walkthrough: check for standing water, organic debris, and algae growth
- Log all cleaning activities with date, time, solution strength, and initials
Weekly Protocol
- Deep scrub all floors, walls, and benches with 2,000–5,000 ppm solution and stiff brush
- Disassemble and soak drip emitters, spray nozzles, and reservoir components in 500 ppm solution
- Clean HVAC filters and duct interiors; wipe intake/exhaust grilles with 1,000 ppm solution
- Flush hydroponic systems with 50–200 ppm solution, then rinse at least 3x with clean water
- Inspect and replace any degraded gaskets, tubing, or fittings that could harbor biofilm
- Review environmental monitoring data (humidity, temp) for conditions favoring pathogen growth
- Archive weekly cleaning log for compliance documentation
Monthly Deep Clean
- Fog entire room with 1,000–2,000 ppm solution (room must be empty of plants)
- Disassemble and inspect all irrigation components—replace worn drippers and tubing
- Descale any mineral deposits using acid-based cleaners, then follow with NaOCl sanitization
- Test incoming water quality: pH, EC, total dissolved solids, and microbial counts
- Calibrate all dosing equipment and test strip comparisons against known standards
Between-Cycle Room Turnover
- Remove all plant material, growing media, and organic debris from the room
- Pressure wash or scrub all surfaces with detergent, rinse, then apply 5,000 ppm NaOCl
- Flush and sanitize entire irrigation system including mainlines, laterals, and emitters
- Replace HVAC filters, sanitize ductwork interiors, and clean condensate drains
- Allow 24–48 hours ventilation before introducing new plants
- Document turnover with photos and dated logs for regulatory review
NaOCl vs. H2O2 vs. Peracetic Acid: Head-to-Head Comparison
Cultivators often ask which disinfectant is "best." The honest answer is that each has a role, and smart operations use multiple agents strategically. Here is how sodium hypochlorite stacks up against hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid (PAA)—the three most common professional disinfectants in cannabis cultivation:
| Factor | Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) | Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) | Peracetic Acid (PAA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Species | Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) | Hydroxyl radicals (OH•) | Peracetic acid + acetic acid |
| Spectrum | Bacteria, fungi, viruses, viroids, algae, biofilm | Bacteria, fungi, some viruses, algae | Bacteria, fungi, viruses, spores, biofilm |
| HpLVd Efficacy | Excellent (10% solution, 10 min) | Moderate (higher concentrations needed) | Good (5%, 10 min) |
| Contact Time | 5–10 minutes typical | 10–30 minutes | 5–15 minutes |
| Cost per Gallon (Working Solution) | $0.05–$0.10 | $0.25–$0.75 | $1.00–$3.00 |
| Corrosion Risk | Moderate (metals, rubber) | Low (most materials) | Moderate (metals, some plastics) |
| Residue | Salt + water (rinse recommended) | Water + oxygen (no rinse needed) | Acetic acid (vinegar-like, minimal rinse) |
| Plant Safety | Toxic to plants at working concentrations | Root-zone safe at low ppm; oxygenates roots | Toxic to plants at working concentrations |
| Shelf Stability | 3–6 months (12.5%, cool/dark) | 6–12 months (food-grade, sealed) | 6–12 months (concentrated, sealed) |
| Mixing Hazards | Never mix with acids, ammonia, or H2O2 | Never mix with NaOCl or metals | Never mix with NaOCl or strong bases |
| Best Use Case | Surface/tool sanitization, room turnover, irrigation flush | Root-zone treatment, gentle surface sanitization, between bleach cycles | Food-contact surfaces, organic-certified operations |
Surface & Equipment Sanitization Protocols
Different surfaces and equipment require different approaches. Material compatibility, contact time, and rinsing requirements vary based on what you are sanitizing. Refer to our chemical storage guide for safe handling of concentrated NaOCl stock solutions.
| Surface / Equipment | NaOCl Concentration | Method | Contact Time | Rinse Protocol | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel benches | 1,000–2,000 ppm | Spray & wipe | 10 min | Water rinse, air dry | Rinse promptly to prevent pitting |
| Plastic grow trays | 1,000 ppm | Soak in basin | 15 min | Triple rinse | Check for cracks that harbor biofilm |
| Pruning shears / scissors | 10,000 ppm | Full submersion soak | 10 min | Air dry | Oil lightly after drying to prevent rust |
| Scalpels / razor blades | 10,000 ppm | Submersion in glass tray | 10 min | Air dry | Replace blades frequently |
| Irrigation drippers | 500 ppm | Soak disassembled | 30 min | Flush with clean water | Clear all mineral deposits first |
| Reservoir tanks | 500–1,000 ppm | Fill and soak | 30–60 min | Drain, triple flush | Scrub walls before filling |
| HVAC intake grilles | 1,000 ppm | Spray & wipe | 10 min | Wipe with damp cloth | Weekly minimum |
| Concrete floors | 2,000–5,000 ppm | Mop or pressure washer | 10–15 min | Rinse with hose | Seal concrete to reduce porosity |
| Fabric pots / grow bags | 1,000 ppm | Soak in tub | 30 min | Machine rinse or triple soak | Replace after 3–4 cycles |
| Clone domes / humidity lids | 1,000–2,000 ppm | Spray interior + soak | 15 min | Triple rinse, air dry | Critical for HpLVd prevention |
Water Treatment for Cannabis Irrigation
Water quality directly impacts plant health, nutrient availability, and pathogen risk. Many cannabis cultivators use NaOCl to treat their source water before mixing nutrients. This approach mirrors municipal water treatment practices and is particularly important for operations using well water, rainwater collection, or recirculating hydroponic systems.
Source Water Treatment Protocol
- Test your source water for pH, EC, total coliforms, and E. coli. Microbial testing should be performed at least quarterly, or monthly if using well or surface water.
- Pre-treat with 1–3 ppm free chlorine (approximately 0.08–0.24 mL of 12.5% NaOCl per 10 gallons) to eliminate waterborne pathogens.
- Allow 30 minutes contact time with gentle agitation to ensure complete disinfection.
- Dechlorinate before use by aerating for 24 hours, using activated carbon filtration, or neutralizing with sodium bisulfite at 1.46 mg per mg of free chlorine.
- Verify residual chlorine is below 0.5 ppm before adding nutrients or applying to plants. Use DPD test strips or a digital chlorine meter for accuracy.
Supporting Chemicals for Cannabis Facilities
Bleach is the sanitization backbone, but a complete Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and facility hygiene program requires complementary chemicals. Each agent fills a specific niche that NaOCl cannot:
| Chemical | Role in Cannabis Cultivation | When to Use | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) | Root zone oxygenation, mild surface sanitization, root rot rescue | Between bleach cycles; sensitive equipment; root zone | Plant-safe at low ppm; no NaOCl mixing |
| Isopropyl Alcohol (99%) | Quick tool sterilization, resin removal, surface wipe | Between plant contacts for quick turnaround | 70% dilution is optimal for disinfection |
| Phosphoric Acid (H3PO4) | pH down, mineral deposit removal, nutrient source | Nutrient mixing, system descaling | Never mix with NaOCl—releases chlorine gas |
| Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) | pH up, heavy-duty degreasing, organic soil removal | Deep cleaning, drain maintenance, pH adjustment | Strong base—requires full PPE |
| Sodium Bisulfite | Dechlorination after NaOCl treatment | Before introducing treated water to plants/nutrients | 1.46 mg per mg free chlorine |
| Distilled / DI Water | Equipment rinsing, calibration solutions, sensitive applications | Final rinse after sanitization, pH meter calibration | Zero mineral content prevents scale |
Safety Guidelines & PPE Requirements
Sodium hypochlorite is a powerful oxidizer that demands respect. Handled correctly, it is one of the safest and most effective disinfectants available. Handled carelessly, it poses risks of chemical burns, toxic gas generation, and regulatory violations. For a comprehensive overview, see our chemical safety guide.
Required Personal Protective Equipment
Every person who handles NaOCl—whether mixing, applying, or cleaning up—must wear proper personal protective equipment:
- Chemical splash goggles (ANSI Z87.1 rated)—not safety glasses. Goggles create a full seal around the eyes to prevent splash exposure.
- Nitrile gloves (minimum 8 mil thickness)—replace immediately if torn, punctured, or exposed for more than 30 minutes continuously.
- Chemical-resistant apron (PVC or rubber) for mixing concentrated solutions and performing deep cleaning tasks.
- Respiratory protection (NIOSH-approved OV/CL cartridge respirator) when working in enclosed spaces, mixing concentrated solutions, or if chlorine odor is detectable.
- Closed-toe, chemical-resistant footwear—no sandals, cloth shoes, or bare feet in areas where NaOCl is used.
Emergency Procedures
Eye Contact
Immediately flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. Ensure an eyewash station is within 10 seconds of any NaOCl mixing area.
Skin Contact
Remove contaminated clothing. Wash affected area with soap and running water for 5 minutes minimum. For concentrated solution exposure, continue washing for 15 minutes and seek medical evaluation.
Inhalation
Move to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen if available. If chlorine gas exposure is suspected (mixing incident), call 911 and poison control.
- Ammonia or ammonium compounds → produces toxic chloramine gas (headache, nausea, respiratory damage)
- Acids (vinegar, muriatic acid, citric acid, phosphoric acid) → releases chlorine gas (potentially lethal in enclosed spaces)
- Hydrogen peroxide → violent exothermic reaction releasing oxygen and chlorine
- Isopropyl alcohol → produces chloroform and other halogenated compounds
- Other oxidizers (potassium permanganate, ozone) → unpredictable, potentially explosive reactions
Always rinse surfaces thoroughly between different chemical applications. Store NaOCl separately from all other chemicals. For detailed storage guidance, consult our chemical storage guide for labs and safe chemical disposal guide.
Storage Best Practices
- Store in original HDPE container in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area—NaOCl degrades rapidly in heat and UV light
- Keep away from metals—bleach corrodes steel, aluminum, and copper over time
- Maintain storage temperature below 77°F (25°C); shelf life drops dramatically above this threshold
- 12.5% NaOCl loses approximately 0.5–1% active chlorine per month under ideal conditions
- Never store above other chemicals—leaks can cause dangerous reactions with incompatible materials below
- Keep SDS (Safety Data Sheet) posted at the storage location and in the mixing area
- Review our chemical disposal guide for proper waste handling
Compliance & Documentation
Licensed cannabis operations face rigorous regulatory oversight. Sanitation documentation is not just good practice—it is a legal requirement in most jurisdictions. Your facility should maintain the following records:
- Daily sanitation logs: Date, time, operator name, areas cleaned, solution concentration (verified ppm), contact time, and any deviations from SOP
- Chemical inventory records: Product name, lot number, date received, date opened, expiration date, quantity on hand
- SDS file: Current Safety Data Sheets for every chemical in the facility, accessible within 30 seconds per OSHA requirements
- Training records: Documentation that every employee has been trained on NaOCl handling, dilution, PPE use, and emergency procedures
- Water quality test results: Source water testing, post-treatment verification, and nutrient solution monitoring
- Equipment calibration logs: pH meters, EC meters, chlorine test equipment, dosing pumps
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use household bleach (5.25%) instead of 12.5%?
Technically yes, but it is inefficient and unreliable for professional operations. You would need approximately 2.4x more volume to achieve the same ppm, and household bleach often contains fragrances, thickeners, or surfactants that leave residues on grow equipment. These additives can affect plant health and may cause compliance issues during testing. Professional 12.5% sodium hypochlorite is pure, purpose-built for commercial sanitization, and significantly more economical per effective gallon.
How do I verify my bleach solution is still active?
Use chlorine test strips (DPD reagent type, available at pool supply stores or laboratory suppliers) to verify free chlorine ppm. Test strips are inexpensive and provide results in seconds. Prepared working solutions should be used within 24 hours maximum. Stock 12.5% NaOCl maintains potency for 3–6 months when stored below 77°F in opaque containers away from light. If your stock solution smells weak or watery, test it—it has likely degraded.
Is bleach safe for hydroponic systems?
Yes, at 50–200 ppm for system flushing between crop cycles. The critical requirement is thorough rinsing—flush at least 3 times with clean purified water before reintroducing plants or nutrient solution. Residual chlorine above 2 ppm can damage root tissue and kill beneficial microorganisms. Always verify residual chlorine with test strips before replanting.
What is better for tool sterilization: bleach or IPA?
For viroid and virus deactivation (especially HpLVd), bleach is definitively superior. Isopropyl alcohol does not reliably kill viroids—it is primarily effective against bacteria and enveloped viruses. Use 10% bleach (10,000 ppm) with a 10-minute soak for any tools that contact plant tissue. IPA is better for quick surface wipes, resin removal, and situations where rapid turnaround is needed and viroid transmission is not a concern.
How do I dispose of used bleach solutions?
Dilute solutions below 500 ppm can typically be discharged to municipal sewer with running water per most local codes. Concentrated waste should be neutralized with sodium thiosulfate (2.5 mg per mg of free chlorine) or sodium bisulfite, or allowed to off-gas in a ventilated area for 24–48 hours before disposal. Always check local regulations—some jurisdictions have specific requirements for discharge of chlorinated wastewater. For comprehensive guidance, review our chemical disposal guide.
Can I use NaOCl directly on cannabis plants?
No. Working concentrations of NaOCl (even 50 ppm) will cause phytotoxicity—bleaching, tissue damage, and cell death in plant tissue. NaOCl is exclusively for surfaces, tools, equipment, water treatment, and environmental sanitization. For plant-safe pathogen management, consider dilute hydrogen peroxide foliar sprays or biological fungicides as part of your IPM program.
How does NaOCl compare to UV-C sterilization?
UV-C (254 nm) is excellent for air and water treatment in cannabis facilities, but it cannot replace chemical sanitization for surfaces and tools. UV-C only works in direct line-of-sight—it cannot penetrate shadows, crevices, or biofilm layers. NaOCl reaches every surface it contacts, including porous materials and complex geometries. The best facilities use both: UV-C for continuous air and water treatment, NaOCl for surface and tool sanitization.
Professional-Grade Sanitization for Your Cannabis Operation
Alliance Chemical supplies 12.5% sodium hypochlorite in quart, gallon, 5-gallon, and 55-gallon drum quantities. Consistent concentration, certificate of analysis available, fast shipping, and bulk pricing for commercial cannabis operations.
Shop Sodium Hypochlorite 12.5% Browse All Disinfectants Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions
Questions about bulk orders or custom concentrations? Contact our team at sales@alliancechemical.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How is sodium hypochlorite used in cannabis cultivation?
Sodium hypochlorite at 0.5-1% concentration (diluted from 12.5% stock) sanitizes hydroponic systems, reservoirs, and growing surfaces between crop cycles. At 100-200 ppm, it controls algae in irrigation lines. It's also used for seed sterilization (0.5% solution for 10 minutes) to prevent pathogen introduction into grow facilities.
How does hydrogen peroxide benefit cannabis growing?
Food-grade hydrogen peroxide (3-5% dilution) adds supplemental oxygen to root zones, combating root rot (Pythium, Fusarium), and killing algae in hydroponic reservoirs. Apply 3 mL of 3% H₂O₂ per gallon of nutrient solution every 3-4 days. Unlike bleach, H₂O₂ breaks down to water and oxygen, leaving no harmful residues.
Can you use bleach and hydrogen peroxide together for cannabis facility cleaning?
Never mix bleach (sodium hypochlorite) and hydrogen peroxide—they react to produce oxygen gas and can create dangerous heat and spattering. Use them in separate cleaning cycles with thorough water rinsing between applications. Bleach is better for surface disinfection, while H₂O₂ is preferred for root zone treatment in active growing systems.
What concentration of sodium hypochlorite is safe for plant equipment?
Use 200 ppm free chlorine (approximately 1.5 mL of 12.5% sodium hypochlorite per liter) for surface sanitization with 10 minutes contact time, then rinse thoroughly. For irrigation system flushing, use 50-100 ppm. Higher concentrations can damage plastic components and leave chlorine residue that may harm plants—always rinse before replanting.
