I live in a Zone 6 area (New York), and have decided to grow a dwarf Mericrest nectarine tree under hydroponic conditions using a timed circulation drip system. I have done the research on the ideal pH for nectarine trees, and have found it to be 6.5. However, an acceptable pH range of 6.0 to 6.7 was noted. In terms of the medium, I have chosen to use Hydroton.

My questions for other hydroponic gardeners out there are:

1. What is the ideal EC to maintain the tree at? Is that something I should determine on my own initially during the creation of the nutrient solution?

2. What should the watering schedule be? Would a 15-on/15-off minute cycling schedule work out? Or should it be a constant circulation with no cycle? I've also thought about shutting the circulation off at sunset (~8:22pm est) while resuming at sunrise (~5:26am est).

I appreciate all the feedback I can receive, including any extra tips on growing a nectarine tree through hydroponics in my area. Thanks in advance.