Looking for thoughts on appearance of my babies - They're looking sick

[dudemanbro]

They're planted in jiffy peats and a couple days ago I wrapped them in aluminum foil to block light from the roots since the roots were starting to come out the sides. When transferring to pots last night, I noticed they were quite wet, so I'm thinking there might have been an oxygen deficiency issue.
They're currently still on straight spring water (pH checked at 7.1).

 

[Vestrimatrik]

Have you started using your nutrients yet?
pH foy hyro should be around 6.0
You are right about not getting enough oxygen.

Shouldn't the put foil around the root zone, it could cause elevated heat in that area and also won't allow for proper ventilation causing the roots to suffocate themselves. With seedlings it's probably best to let roots find their own way, the roots that are exposed to light and air more than others will harden up while the ones that are already headed in the right direction do most of the work.
Also, make sure that no water from your ring is splashing up and hitting the babies themselves. It looks like they are waterlogged. If you have a humidity monitor you should stick it right next to the base of the plant and I bet you will be shocked at the levels in that tiny area. You could also try getting a small amount of airflow passing over them to help.
I suggest for any hydro grower to have their seedlings "fill out" a pint size soil container before transitioning them to hydroponics. It allows them to grow stronger before shocking them with a process they aren't naturally used to.


Ever been walking through the park and look at the base of a tree only to notice the "branches" sticking halfway out of the ground? Well those are the very first roots from when the tree was a baby that have been exposed to air and light, and over time have hardened themselves to withstand the elements they have been exposed to. Basically the same concept but make sure you have some lower ones to capture what the plant needs to keep going.

Hope this helps!