Buzz
Once linked primarily to cultivating large quantities of cannabis effortlessly in small spaces, hydroponics has now become synonymous with innovative technology for eco-friendly agriculture. Although it may appear unnatural to grow plants in a controlled environment, this method is praised as a practical solution for producing fresh produce right in your living space.
You have the option to design your own hydroponic setup or buy ready-made kits that only require you to care for the plants. While it may sound straightforward, how accessible is it really? Here’s a breakdown of hydroponic gardening and the essentials for setting one up at home.
Understanding Hydroponics: What Does It Entail?
In simple terms, hydroponics involves cultivating plants in water without soil. Nutrient-enriched water and specialized grow lights provide all the essentials for plants to flourish in a confined area. A controlled setting promotes accelerated growth without chemicals, consumes less water compared to traditional farming, and allows for fresh produce cultivation even during harsh winters.
During the global lockdown, enthusiasm for hydroponic gardening surged dramatically. For me, the pandemic became a catalyst to explore growing my own food. Mastering soil-free cultivation felt like a vital skill in what seemed like an apocalyptic scenario.
Steps to Creating Your Own Hydroponic Garden at Home
Hydroponic gardening can be implemented in various methods, each requiring a mix of the essentials outlined by The Spruce:
Container or basin for water storage
Grow light (optional)
Water
Hydroponic nutrients (dry or liquid)
Cotton or nylon wick
Growing medium
Seedling
Growing tray
Drill or screwdriver (optional)
Wick System Hydroponics (Ideal for Beginners)
The wick system operates without any electronic components, relying instead on wicks (similar to candle wicks) to transport water to the plant’s roots. This simplicity, free of mechanical parts, makes it an excellent choice for developing survival skills in challenging scenarios.
To set up this system, you’ll require a growing container, a basin for the water reservoir, wicks, a growing medium (such as a moss-like block to support the roots), and a nutrient solution. Most of these items are available online via Amazon, with a total cost of around $82 (or approximately $20 more if you opt for a grow light instead of relying on natural sunlight). This method is particularly effective for cultivating fast-growing plants like lettuce and herbs.
Ebb and Flow Method (Intermediate Level)
Slightly more complex than the wick system, the ebb and flow technique utilizes gravity and a water pump to circulate water between the basin and the nutrient solution reservoir. While it’s categorized as an intermediate hydroponic system, it requires moderate maintenance once installed. This setup is ideal for those who wish to rotate plants periodically without disrupting other seedlings in the system. Including a submersible pump and an electronic timer, the total cost for this system is approximately $130 (with a grow light included).
Nutrient Film Technique and Aeroponics (Advanced Level)
More complex DIY hydroponic systems include the Nutrient Film Technique, which involves a constant stream of water, and the Aeroponic System, where plant roots dangle in the air. As noted by The Spruce, building these systems yourself can cost over $150. Due to the intricate setup required, purchasing a pre-assembled kit is often a more practical choice.
Purchasing a Pre-Made Hydroponic Garden Kit
While sourcing individual components is straightforward, assembling a hydroponic system can be a meticulous task. For those who prefer convenience (like myself), buying a ready-made kit is a simpler and quicker solution.
On Amazon, beginner-friendly hydroponic wick systems are more budget-friendly than DIY setups, priced around $50. In contrast, advanced Aeroponic systems can range from $599 to $669, depending on the supplier. A trendy aeroponic choice is the compact plant tower, which blends seamlessly with home decor and is available for $499 at certain stores. Rise Gardens provides a range of self-watering, app-controlled hydroponic systems, starting at $279 for a personal-sized unit. Larger systems designed for families can cost nearly $950.
Pre-made kits include all essential components and step-by-step setup guides, allowing even novice gardeners to start growing quickly. However, you’ll need to weigh the convenience against the price. For someone embarking on their gardening adventure, hydroponics isn’t entirely effortless. It demands dedication and investment, but it can be highly rewarding for those willing to put in the effort.
