Hydroponics Instructions

Overview

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using just mineral solutions and water with no soil. Deriving from the Greek words hydro (water) and ponos (labor), hydroponics is a beneficial way to grow plants indoors and to maintain their pureness, completely controlling the environment. Just about any plant can grow in hydroponics. One of the best hydroponic systems for beginners is the continuous flow hydroponic system, which you can build on your own with some simple materials and physical labor.

Setting Up Hydroponic System

Step 1

Drill one 1/2-inch hole in the middle of the 20-gallon bin's lid and a second hole by one of the edges.

Step 2

Drill another 1/2-inch hole in the bottom of the bin, right in the middle. Measure to the side about three inches and drill an additional 3/4-inch hole.

Step 3

Install and fit securely the drain fittings, screens and riser extension, following the directions on the package.

Step 4

Position the pump in the 20-gallon bin. Keep in mind that the pump is something you should invest in to ensure it is top quality and durable since it is aerating the roots. A medium aquarium pump should work fine. Connect the 1/2-inch tubing to the pump and thread it through the 1/2-inch hole in the lid. Connect this tubing to the bin's 1/2-inch drain fitting.

Step 5

Secure the 3/4-inch tubing to the 3/4-inch drain fitting. Run the other end of the tubing through the 3/4-inch lid hole. Then thread the pump's cord through the other 1/2-inch hole in the lid in order to plug it in.

Step 6

Close the bin's lid, positioning it so you don't bend any of the tubes or fittings.

Using The Hydroponic System

Step 1

Determine what you are going to grow with hydroponics, whether it is vegetables, fruits, herbs or decorative house plants. Crops that are commonly grown with hydroponics include tomatoes, lettuce, peppers and almost all house plants except cacti.

Step 2

Pick a hydroponic growing medium (found at local nurseries or gardening stores). A multi-use growing medium, also a long-term use medium,is most common to use with crops and flowers. If you just want a medium for a one-time use, perlite or vermiculite is often used. The one-time use mediums are less expensive but in the long run the multi-use mediums will save money, as they are durable and help retain nutrients.You can also use hydroponic pebbles. Choosing a medium depends on what you are growing. For example, onions grow best with hydroponics pebbles, while lettuce grows best with a one-time or multi-use medium.

Step 3

Fill the 20-gallon bin's nutrient reservoir with water. Pour in the concentrated nutrient solution, according to the package instructions which will vary depending on the type you purchased.

Step 4

Fill the bin with hydroponic pebbles or the growing medium up to 2 1/2 inches above the riser extension. This is the top height that the water level will reach, where the plant roots will be set.

Step 5

Put the plant transplants on top of the growing medium or pebbles. Fill in around the transplants with additional medium to make the plant roots more sturdy. This process may vary depending on what you are growing, so keep in mind this is just a general overview.

Step 6

Observe the reservoir each day. Refill it with more water to replace what evaporates. Usually with hydroponic systems, you will have to flush out the system about every two weeks with fresh water and nutrient solution.

Step 7

Pick out grow lights if you decide to use them. You can grow hydroponic crops and flowers indoors with natural sunlight if the system is in the proper location for sunlight exposure, but if not, you should use some grow lights particular to your growing goals.