Starting with hydroponics: a short guide

If you’re enthusiastic about plants and you consider starting with hydroponics, but you are unsure how, today’s post is for you! We have noticed that a lot of people overestimate the complexity of hydroponics, and thus never get started. Pity, because with the proper explanation you can have your first hands-off system up and running in 30 minutes. That means in 30 minutes your plants will grow 50% faster, and you can harvest in record time! Not to mention a 90% reduction in water usage!

What is hydroponics?

Hydroponics is the cultivation of plants in water, rather than in soil. The roots of the plant are submerged in water that contains a nutrient solution. From there the plant gets all it needs throughout its life cycle. CO2, oxygen and sunlight do the rest.

How do I start?

Through the years, a lot of different techniques have been developed for hydroponic cultivation. The easiest is the Kratky method, you install your system and mother nature does the rest. The Kratky method is briefly explained here In this article we will be using the Kratky method because of the low barrier to entry and excellent results!

What do I need?

• A waterproof container, with holes on the top.
• Optionally an airpump to put oxygen in the water.
• Netcups.
• A growth medium, from where the plant can grow. Sponges, rockwool, and clay pellets all suffice.
• Nutrients
• Seeds
• Water
• Sunlight

How do I set up the system?

With the systems we ship extensive instructions to get started, and with the nutrient sets we ship mixing instructions. It’s very easy to do. Within 30 minutes you are ready to start. Here a brief description to give you an idea about what it takes.

1. Soak your growth medium for 30 minutes in water, squeeze them under water so that the air escapes.
2. Add water to your system, install the air pump if you have one.
3. Press the seeds into the growth medium, around 1 cm deep.
4. Cover the system with something transparent (i.e. foil or glass).
5. Wait until the seeds have sprouted and add the nutrients, following the mixing instructions.
6. Wait around 6 weeks and depending on the plant you are ready to harvest!

Conclusion

As you can see, starting your first hydroponics project is a breeze! In the flick of an eye you have a system that basically runs itself. Once a week you can check the water level, sit back and relax!