How to Use Aptus Regulator

Written by Will

Using Aptus Regulator correctly will make a real difference to your results. Aptus Regulator is one of those products I always recommend to growers who want stronger, more resilient plants without overcomplicating their nutrient schedule. At its core, it’s a highly concentrated silicon supplement — but it does far more than just stiffen stems. Used correctly from the first week of growth, it genuinely transforms how plants handle stress, absorb nutrients, and develop structurally. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Does Aptus Regulator Do?

Aptus Regulator delivers silicon in the form of silicic acid — the most plant-available form of this essential element. Once absorbed, silicon is deposited into cell walls, making them significantly thicker and more robust. The result? Stems that can hold more weight, leaves that resist physical and environmental damage, and a plant that’s far better equipped to deal with pest pressure, heat, and salt stress.

Beyond structural benefits, silicon actually improves chlorophyll production, which means more effective photosynthesis and better use of your lighting. It also acts as a gateway compound — improving the uptake efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. That means your main nutrients work harder too.

Aptus Regulator Dosage and Application

The standard dose is 1.5ml per 10 litres of nutrient solution (0.15ml per litre). This works out to a dilution ratio of 1:6,666 — it’s extremely concentrated, so measure carefully.

If you’re dealing with excessive vertical stretch — common in the early flowering period under certain light conditions — increase the dose to 3ml per 10 litres for two to three weeks. Once growth rate normalises, drop back to the standard rate. This higher dose works by slowing stem elongation and encouraging the plant to put energy into lateral and structural development instead.

Application Tips

• Always add Regulator to your reservoir or feed tank first, in clean water, before adding other nutrients
• Stir or circulate thoroughly to ensure even distribution
• Check and adjust pH after adding all other nutrients — silicic acid can slightly affect pH
• Extract product with a clean, dry syringe each time to maintain potency and avoid contamination

When to Use Aptus Regulator

Start Regulator from week one of the vegetative stage and continue right through to the final weeks of bloom. Unlike many additives, this isn’t a product you cycle in and out — consistent, low-dose application throughout the full growing period delivers the best results. Silicon builds up in plant tissue over time, so the earlier you start, the more fortified your plants will be when they need it most.

Growth Stage Schedule

• Seedling / Early Veg: 0.15ml per litre — builds foundational cell wall strength
• Vegetative: 0.15ml per litre — supports structural development and stress resistance
• Early Bloom: 0.15–0.3ml per litre — reduces stretch, strengthens branches ahead of flower development
• Mid to Late Bloom: 0.15ml per litre — maintains strength, supports heavy flower clusters

Compatible Growing Systems and Substrates

Aptus Regulator works across all growing methods. Whether you’re running soil, coco coir, or a full recirculating hydroponic system, it integrates cleanly without clogging lines or reacting negatively with other nutrient brands. It’s also compatible with the full Aptus range — including Aptus All-In-One, Startbooster, and Bloombooster — as well as most third-party base nutrients.

What’s Inside Aptus Regulator?

The primary active ingredient is silicic acid — a plant-available form of silicon that’s absorbed directly through root tissue. The formula also includes a blend of bio-available trace elements that support balanced nutrition. The concentration is deliberately high, which is why the dose is so small per litre. This also makes it extremely cost-effective compared to lower-strength silicon products on the market.

Key Benefits at a Glance

• Thicker, stronger stems and branches that support heavier flowers
• Improved resistance to pests, disease, heat, drought, and salt stress
• Enhanced uptake of macronutrients (N, P, K)
• Reduced internode stretch and more compact growth habit
• Increased chlorophyll production for better photosynthesis efficiency
• Compatible with all substrates and nutrient brands

Available Sizes

Aptus Regulator is available in 100ml, 250ml, 500ml, 1 litre, and 5 litre bottles. For home growers with small to medium setups, the 250ml or 500ml options offer excellent value given the very low dose per litre. Commercial growers or those with multiple tents will find the 1L and 5L sizes far more economical per application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Aptus Regulator with nutrients from other brands?

Yes — Regulator is designed to be universally compatible. It works alongside any base nutrient brand and doesn’t interfere with branded feed schedules. Many growers add it to their existing programme without changing anything else.

Will Aptus Regulator affect my pH?

Silicic acid can have a slight influence on solution pH. Always add Regulator first when mixing your nutrient solution, then check and adjust pH after all other nutrients are combined.

How long before I see results?

Silicon builds in plant tissue gradually. You’ll typically notice visible improvements in stem thickness and overall plant rigidity within 7–14 days of consistent use. Stretch reduction, when using the higher dose, is usually apparent within the first week.

Can I use a higher dose to fix severe stretch?

Yes — up to 3ml per 10 litres is recommended for periods of excessive stretch. Maintain this for two to three weeks then return to the standard 1.5ml per 10L dose. Don’t exceed the maximum dose, as very high silicon concentrations can start to interfere with iron and manganese availability.

Is Aptus Regulator suitable for organic grows?

Aptus Regulator is not certified organic, but it is a mineral-based supplement rather than a synthetic fertiliser. Many growers using organic or near-organic methods incorporate it without issue — check with your specific certification body if this is a concern.

Where can I buy Aptus Regulator?

You can buy Aptus Regulator directly from our store in all available sizes. We stock the full Aptus plant nutrition range, and our team is happy to advise on how to integrate Regulator into your existing feeding programme.

Related Articles

• Nutrients and Additives Guide — complete hub
• The Biobizz Feeding Chart

Further Reading From The Horticulture Company

For more expert growing guides, our nutrients and additives guide explains how to build an effective feed programme, while our LED grow lights comparison and grow tents guide help you optimise your growing environment. The indoor growing environment guide covers temperature, humidity and CO₂, and the complete UK grow tent guide takes you through setup from scratch.

For authoritative guidance on plant nutrition and health, the Royal Horticultural Society publishes evidence-based growing advice used by professionals and hobbyists alike. Visit The Horticulture Company’s store in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, or browse our full range of products and guides online.