Kangkung (Water Spinach)
Ipomoea aquatica
Malay names: Kangkung
Classic tropical leafy green that loves water; extremely fast in hydroponics.
🌞 Light & Temperature
Light: Full sun to bright light
Temperature: 24–36°C
🪴 Container & Medium
Container: DWC/raft or NFT with deeper channels; 2–3 inch net pots; strong aeration.
Medium / Solution: Medium: clay pebbles; Solution: pH 6.0–6.5, EC 1.2–2.0 mS/cm
💧 Watering / Solution Maintenance
Schedule: Top-up daily; solution change every 7–10 days
Top-up: Maintain level; vigorous growth drinks quickly
pH 6.0–6.5; EC 1.2–2.0 mS/cm
🧪 Nutrients
Type: Leafy green nutrient
Frequency: Check EC 2–3x/week; change 7–10 days
Dosage/EC: EC 1.2–2.0 mS/cm; pH 6.0–6.5
🍓 Harvest
Start: 3–5 weeks from sowing
Seasonality: Year-round; thrives in heat
Duration: Cut-and-come-again for weeks
Harvest Indicators: Shoots 25–35 cm; tender tips
Tips: Cut above nodes to encourage branching; harvest frequently.
🌱 Propagation
Seeds or stem cuttings root easily.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
- Leaf miners/aphids: Neem 1%; remove infested leaves; encourage airflow.
🌦️ Seasonal Notes (Malaysia)
Very tolerant of heat and humidity; ensure good aeration to prevent root rot.
📝 System Notes
Space 15–20 cm; consider support net for dense beds.
💡 Extra Care Tips
- Harvest young for best tenderness
- Supplement iron if leaves pale
Note
EC and pH are guidelines—adjust to plant response and your water source. In monsoon humidity, increase airflow and reduce overcrowding to limit disease.