Easy starter hydroponic systems

Aerogarden – Fully automated aeroponic system

How it works: A stream of liquid nutrients and water is sprayed onto the roots of each of the individual seed pods in timed intervals throughout the day. The pump operates automatically to deliver the appropriate amount of nutrients for the seed pods you are growing.

The nutrients : The nutrients are concentrated in a small tablet. When nutrients are needed, the system indicator instructs you to add more nutrient tablets. You don’t have to hassle with testing pH levels.

What to plant : Special pre-planted pods must be used in the Aerogarden. The seeds are specially tested to work optimally with the system. There are herbs, vegetables, and tomato plants to choose from.

Growing medium : The seed pods are filled with special foam that holds the seeds in place through germination.

Grow Lights: An energy efficient fluorescent light is included. A built in timer automates the light to provide the optimum light needed for each seed pack series.

Difficultly level : Easy

 

The WaterFarm – Hydroponic system

How it works: A nutrient chamber sits below the growing chamber. Nutrients are pumped up to the top of the growing chamber and drip out of a drip ring and down through the clay pebbles. The pump can operate continuously or on an optional timer at intervals throughout the day depending on the type of plants you are growing.

The nutrients : The unit comes with a Flora nutrient series of FloraBloom, FloraGro, and FloraMicro. At different stages of the plants growth, different combinations of the nutrients are added to the reservoir. Detailed instructions are included with the nutrients to help you determine which combination of nutrients is best. You do have to monitor the pH level of the reservoir and that can be done using the optional pH up and pH down kit.

What to plant: Perfect for growing larger plants like tomatoes and cucumbers or a grouping or smaller plants like peppers. You can use seedlings that were grown in a soilless growing medium to get started. Take the seedling out of the growing medium and rinse roots thoroughly with water. Gently add the clay pebbles around the plant roots until thoroughly covered. We have also had success with planting seeds directly between the clay balls and starting plants from seed.

Growing Medium: Expanded clay pebbles are used in this system as a medium to support the plants. They are made from a special type of clay, which is heated to a high temperature. They provide ideal drainage, do not adversely affect the pH level and are chemically inert.

Grow lights: Recommended

Difficultly level : Medium

 

Emily’s Garden – Passive Hydroponics

How it works: Six individual 6” pots sit above the nutrient chamber. The liquid nutrient/water solution is wicked up to the plant roots from the bottom chamber. Aeration pump bubbles fresh air through the nutrient to create a high oxygen level needed for robust plant growth.

The nutrients : The unit comes with a nutrient solution to add to the water reservoir.

What to plant: This system works great for planting lettuce, herbs and other small plants. You can grow a variety of plants and rotate them as you like. Seed starter cubes are included so you can easily start plants from seed.

Growing Medium: Expanded clay pebbles are used in this system as a medium to support the plants. They are made from a special type of clay, which is heated to a high temperature. They provide ideal drainage, do not adversely affect the pH level and are chemically inert.

Grow lights: Recommended

Difficultly level : Medium