Hydroponics

Not just for fire weed...lol

I have a new addition to my gardening quiver. Hydroponics. I was hesitant at first, but I've come to recognize the pros outweigh the cons. What is hydroponics you say? According to the Googleater (Google). It is a method of growing plants in water rather than soil. The water does have to be supplemented with liquid nutrients.

I ordered 2 systems. One came from Amazon and the from vevor.com. They are very similar and both function the same. Simple to assemble and get up and running.

Stuff you need

You will need a couple of things outside the hydroponic system. You will need at least a 5-gallon bucket, hydroponic nutrients and grow lights.

Assembly

The systems are pretty simple to assemble. everything you need is included. Be sure not to tap the pipes too hard with the rubber mallet included. Also be sure to check for leaks before pumping water through the system.

I had to add a couple of blocks under the legs to get the bucket underneath the system.

Planting

Prior to planting soak your seed for 24 hours. you will need the put the seed inside the foam sponges. It should be high enough to dry out when the water is not circulating. But low enough inside the foam to allow the roots to reach the water. Roughly about halfway.

Fill your buckets with water and turn on the pump. If possible, use rainwater. Be sure to put the bucket under the return water supply. The system will hold a little water inside, so you may need to add some to the bucket before the water in the system returns to the bucket. As seed they do not need much nutrients so I started with 5 milliliters.

Maintaining

When your plants sprout, you will need to add more nutrients. The seed has enough inside to get the plant to 2 or three leaves. After that you will have to add nutrients to continue growth. At 3 leaves I add 10 milliliters per week.

I add nutrients 1 a week, on Friday. As they plants get bigger (3-4 inches) I increase to 15 milliliters.

Conclusion

This system is perfect for herbs and vegetables that grow above ground. Root vegetables will not grow well because they will sprout inside the pipes. I mostly use this system for leafy vegetables and herbs. Lettuces, broccoli, and greens are mostly what I have. If you have any questions or concerns leave a comment I will answer all questions.

Remember, tell a friend leave a post and let’s grow together.