Phase 1: Hydroponics Fundamentals

your first step to fool-proof soil-free gardening.

Types of Hydroponics Systems

Think of hydroponic systems like different ways to deliver a smoothie to plants. Some sip slowly, some dunk their roots, and some have a constant buffet. Pick the one that fits your space and style.

  • Deep Water Culture (DWC)

    Swimming Pool Method

    Pros

    • ✓Plants drink anytime → fast growth
    • ✓Simple to start
    • ✓Great for leafy greens

    Things to watch

    • ·Needs air pump/oxygen
    • ·Risk of root rot if oxygen fails

  • Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

    Lazy River Method

    Pros

    • ✓Continuous nutrient flow → healthy roots
    • ✓Uses less water than DWC
    • ✓Easy to monitor nutrients

    Things to watch

    • ·Pumps required → electricity needed
    • ·Roots can dry out if flow stops
    • ·Best for small plants only

  • Ebb & Flow / Flood & Drain

    Bathtub Method

    Pros

    • ✓Oxygen gets to roots when drained
    • ✓Good for larger plants
    • ✓Can grow multiple plants per tray

    Things to watch

    • ·Requires pump and timer
    • ·Risk of overflowing or flooding
    • ·Setup more complex

  • Wick System

    Straw Method

    Pros

    • ✓No pumps → very beginner-friendly
    • ✓Cheap & simple
    • ✓Low maintenance

    Things to watch

    • ·Nutrient delivery can be slow
    • ·Roots can dry out in hot climates

  • Drip System

    Coffee Drip Method

    Pros

    • ✓Precise nutrient delivery
    • ✓Good for big or fruiting plants
    • ✓Efficient water use

    Things to watch

    • ·Needs pump & tubing
    • ·More complex setup
    • ·Maintenance for clogs & leaks

  • Kratky Method

    No-Fuss Jar Method

    Pros

    • ✓Super simple → no pump/electricity
    • ✓Beginner-friendly
    • ✓Perfect for small spaces

    Things to watch

    • ·Not suitable for commercial production
    • ·Water/oxygen balance must be monitored
    • ·Limited growth cycle before needing refill
Continue →