• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

Hydroponics Garden Geek

My Hydroponics Garden Blog - hydrogardengeek

  • Shop
    • Best Aeroponic Tower Garden
    • Best Grow Tent Kits
    • Best Indoor Vertical Garden
    • Best Aeroponics Systems
    • Best Hydroponic Tower in 2022
    • Best Hydroponic Bucket System
    • Best Hydroponics NFT System
    • Best Clay Pebbles
    • Best Grow Bags
    • Best Mushroom Grow Bags
    • Aerogarden review aerogarden harvest indoor hydroponic system
  • Search
  • Privacy Policy
You are here: Home / Archives for Hydroponics growing / Indoor gardening

Indoor Gardening using hydroponics

21 RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 6 plant buckets and 1 only nutrient bucket

How To Build A Recirculating Deep Water Culture System?

Hydroponic gardening has been growing in popularity among home gardeners and small-scale farmers due to several key benefits. By delivering nutrient-rich solution directly to plant roots rather than soil, hydroponics ...
detailed diagram of the aquaponics system with description

What Is the Aquaponics System?

Aquaponics presents an innovative method of food production integrating aquaculture fish farming with soilless plant cultivation in a sustainable closed-loop ecosystem. This symbiotic pairing enables fish and plants to thrive ...
Dutch Bucket System

Dutch Bucket Hydroponic System

Hydroponic gardening has been gaining popularity among home gardeners and small-scale farmers in recent years. One particularly effective type of hydroponic system is the Dutch bucket system. In this simple ...
2 vertical hydroponic plant wall systems how to grow plants without soil 2

What is Vertical Herb Garden?

A vertical herb garden is an innovative way to grow herbs, vegetables, flowers, and other plants in a compact vertical space rather than a horizontal garden plot. As urban living ...
Ebb & Flow (Flood and Drain) Hydroponic System

Ebb & Flow (Flood and Drain) Hydroponic System

Hydroponics is the method of growing plants without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in water. One of the most popular hydroponic systems used by home growers and commercial operations is ...
-dwc-deep-water-culture-or-bubbleponics

What is Bubbleponics?

Bubbleponics is an innovative and efficient way to grow plants that combines hydroponics and aquaculture. This sustainable farming technique utilizes nutrient-rich water from fish tanks to feed plants without soil ...
Hydroponic Drip System Recovery schema with two reservoirs with water

Hydroponic Drip Systems: What is It & How to Set Up? – Tutorial

Hydroponic drip systems are a popular and efficient way of growing plants in a soil-less environment. These systems use water, nutrients, and a growing medium to nourish plants and promote ...
How To Build A 5 Gallon Hydroponic Bucket4

How to Build 5 Gallon Bucket Hydroponic System – Tutorial

One of the simplest and most cost-effective hydroponic systems for beginners is the 5-gallon bucket hydroponic system. With just a few inexpensive supplies and some basic knowledge, anyone can build ...
nutrient solution for hydroponic systems

Best Hydroponic Nutrients 2023: Complete Buyer’s Guide

One of the most critical components of any hydroponic system is the nutrient solution, which provides the essential elements that plants need to thrive. With the ever-increasing popularity of hydroponics, ...
Indoor Aquaponics System Basics, Plants, Lighting, Kits3

Indoor Fish Tank Aquaponics System Complete Guide

One of the most popular ways to practice aquaponics is by using an indoor fish tank aquaponics system. This system is ideal for urban areas where space is limited, and ...
-dwc-deep-water-culture-or-bubbleponics

What is Deep Water Culture (DWC system) – Tutorial

If you're new to hydroponics and unfamiliar with terms like deep water culture, don't worry, it's simpler than it sounds! DWC is a hydroponic growing method that involves suspending plant ...
aeroponics hydroponics system shema

What is Aeroponics | A Tutorial

If you're new to gardening or looking to expand your skills, you may come across unfamiliar terms, such as aeroponics. Essentially, aeroponics is a method of plant cultivation that does ...

What is Deep Water Culture (DWC system) – Tutorial

Roger Peters by Roger Peters | Last Updated: March 10, 2023

If you’re new to hydroponics and unfamiliar with terms like deep water culture, don’t worry, it’s simpler than it sounds! DWC is a hydroponic growing method that involves suspending plant roots in a nutrient-rich solution.

While there are other types of hydroponic systems like nutrient film technique and ebb and flow, we’ll focus on DWC in this article. We’ll cover everything you need to know about DWC systems, including the different types and how to build your own. So, let’s get started!

Top recommended articles about hydroponics growingBefore you start growing hydroponics herbs, veggies, and leafy greens, you’ll need to pick the right system to start with. Here are our suggestions: Our Picks for the 5 Hydroponic Towers, Picks for the 5 Best Aeroponics Systems with Buyer’s Guides and Our Picks for the 5 Grow Tent Kits with Buyer’s Guides.

 

hydroponics microgreens professional cultivation

What Is a DWC Hydroponics System?

In a DWC system, plants’ roots are submerged in a solution that contains suitable levels of oxygen and special nutrients. This helps the plants grow at least 15% faster and be healthier.

The solution contains the  three most important ingredient types:

  • Water.
    The base of the solution is water. The roots are always moisturized, so you don’t need to water plants.
  • Oxygen.
    The soil has pockets of air in it, while water doesn’t. To make sure your plants get enough oxygen, it’s supplied directly into the water through an airstone and a pump.
  • Nutrients.
    A full portion of micro and macronutrients depends on the plant you want to grow. We’ll talk about it more nearing the end of the article.

2 DWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 4 bucket

The method is very beneficial since it doesn’t need too much maintenance and constant monitoring. The roots are well-fed and “ventilated,” they are in water, so the need for more humidity is absent. So, the largest part of your job is to assemble the system and follow proper nutrient ratios.

The Atwater HydroPod - Standard A/C Powered DWC/Recirculating Drip Hydroponic Garden System Kit The Atwater HydroPod - Standard A/C Powered DWC/Recirculating Drip Hydroponic Garden System Kit
  • Most efficient use of water compared to traditional gardening
  • Dual outlet air pump, Nutrients are Included!
  • Kit contains everything you need to start your own garden (minus plants and water!)
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Why “deep water” culture? Because the roots are fully submerged in a considerable amount of water. A lot of other hydroponics methods involve partial submerging.

Pros and Cons of Hydroponics Deep Water Culture (DWC Hydroponics)

Let’s see all the advantages and disadvantages of such a system.

Pros:

  • This is one of the easiest methods a lot of beginners use when getting familiar with hydroponics;
  • Minimal maintenance required after you finish planting;
  • Faster growth than in soil (you can grow lettuce 50% faster, for example);
  • Easy installation due to the minimal number of small moving details.

There are cons as well, but we should warn you that they are all avoidable if you’re maintaining the system and the surroundings.

Cons:

  • If you’re working on a small scale, it’s very easy to choose poor ratios of nutrients and other factors;
  • Also, for small scale, water and pH levels, as well as nutrient concentration, may change rapidly and dramatically;
  • If the air pump fails, the plants will die due to the lack of oxygen;
  • Water temperature might be difficult to keep at the needed level.

Deep Water Culture System Diagram (DWC)

The deep water culture system involves exposing the roots of lettuce plants to a constant flow of nutrient-rich water, which promotes quick growth and efficient nutrient absorption. This hydroponic system is also low-maintenance and simple to set up, making it suitable for small-scale gardens.

hydroponic Deep Water Culture or Bubbleponics schema with air stone inside a reservoir with water and nutrients with air pump too

 

Img: Deep Water Culture System Schema

DWC Hydroponics for Beginners: The Easiest Method

If you’re a beginner, it’s worth finding out more about the easiest type of DWC – the traditional method. Such a system is the easiest to assemble and requires the following:

  • A 5-gallon bucket;
  • Airstone and pump;
  • Tubing for air;
  • Growing media and nutrients for hydroponics;
  • PPM meter;
  • Net pots for plants;
  • pH control.

46 Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Or An Aeroponics Indoor Growing System

Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Indoor Growing System Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Indoor Growing System
  • Easy to use aeroponic system for your home
  • Fan - Grow Lettuce, Herbs, Veggies & Fruits
  • Grow smart & eat healthy, 20 gallon water reservoir Grow Tent, LED Grow Lights
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

All you have to do to build the system is:

  1. Connect the air tubing to the pump and the stone;
  2. Put the air stone in your 5-gallon bucket;
  3. Pour water, add pH control and a proper nutrient ratio;
  4. Start the seeds.

As the seeds start to germinate, sooner or later, their roots will contact the water. From that point, you can have a rest and see how rapidly your plants grow! Such an acceleration is achieved by focusing the roots on nurturing themselves rather than looking for water and “food” in the soil. 

If this method seems too easy for you, maybe it’s time to proceed to a more complicated type, which is the recirculating DWC system.

hydroponics growing tube

How to Build a Recirculating Deep Water Culture System

2 RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 6 plant buckets and 1 only nutrient bucket

The next system by complexity is the RDWC or recirculating deep water culture system. It’s suitable for larger scales like 5 buckets or more. When using the traditional method, you will have to calibrate every bucket, which might be complicated. If all the buckets are for a single type of plant, you can build a system that will circulate the nutrients. One reservoir will feed all the plants.

RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 4 plant buckets and 1 only nutrient bucket

Recirculating Deep Water Culture (RDWC) Hydroponic Grow Kit System Recirculating Deep Water Culture (RDWC) Hydroponic Grow Kit System
  • Reservoir Bucket Connected to 4 Grow Buckets
  • 400 Gallon/hour Circulating Pump
  • Large 5 gallon square buckets, pre-drilled
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The air will also circulate as the water with the solution will be oxygenated with spray nozzles.

We’ll guide you through the building of such a system. It’s only 5 steps.

Also, I can recommend this article to read about How to Set Up Hydroponic Drip Systems.

What You Need to Build a Recirculating Deep Water Culture System

Basically, you will need:

  • A large reservoir for the solution that will feed the buckets;
  • Pots for your plants;
  • Buckets to put the pots in (optional);
  • Tubes for recirculating;
  • Nutrients;
  • pH control kit;
  • Growing medium (optional);
  • Air system.

Step 1: Choosing and Installing the Main Container

The main container is the most important thing for the whole system. Determine how many plants you will have to grow and choose a reservoir of a necessary volume. We recommend getting one that can be filled with around 15 l of water. 

See if your plants are entitled to sunlight and choose a regular or a black, light-absorbing container, accordingly. If you have several types of plants that will need the same ratio of oxygen and nutrients, you can grow all of them at once in one system, which is quite convenient. 

If you’re a beginner, we recommend choosing one type of plant and only a couple of additional pots. All you will have to do will be adding the solution to the main bucket when needed. As it’s linked to all the smaller pots, the solution will circulate freely, feeding all the plants at once.

Place the plant in the reservoir to have additional space and have more units as a result. As you learn how to build a simple system, the next one can be bigger, and gradually, you’ll move to a more professional phase where over 10-20 pots will grow plants at the same time!

Step 2: Choosing Pots

Depending on what you grow, choose pots of the necessary size. The best type is net pots, but they may be difficult to find. A lot of people choose to make their own DIY pots, which can save money and become a fun and useful experience.

If you’re sure the holes won’t have sharp edges and will be of a necessary size, go for it. However, remember that any sharp part can damage the roots and kill the plant. The roots grow very tender in such DWC systems, so they require a suitable environment without any danger. 

Choose the pots/buckets, connect them with tubes to the main reservoir so that the solution from it can flow to every bucket, and nurture every root. Make sure there’s enough solution both for the buckets and the tubes it will be circulating through.

Step 3: Measuring the Ratio of Nutrients and Additional Elements

The main drawback of such systems for outside use is the limit of temperature the plants will grow in. Make sure your system is covered and protected from too hot or too cold temperatures. The room temperature is fine.

As to the nutrients, choose a brand you can rely on. For that, go online and read reviews of other people. This is very beneficial for those who have little to no experience in hydroponics since you can skip the trial and error part and buy nutrients suitable for your greens. The ratio should be mentioned in the manual for the nutrients, and you have to follow it strictly. Such systems are quite fragile when it comes to wrong calculations. 

The situation with pH is the same. Usually, the level of 5,8 is OK, but you have to learn more about the plants you’re about to grow. Some might require more or less. For more guidance, refer to the manual for the pH control kit of your choice.

One full reservoir should drain fully in 1-2 weeks for maintenance work. However, if you invest in the EC/PPM meter, you can check the condition of the solution without having to wait for the water to drain.

3 RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example tomatoes in 4 plant buckets

Step 4: Installing an Aeration System

An air pump should have the capacity to process twice as much water as there will be in the main reservoir. So, if you have a 15-liter container, choose a system capable of processing 30 liters per hour.

The air system will oxygenate the water that will, later on, be circulated through the buckets with pots, offering even oxygen for all plants. No DWC system will work properly if you don’t aerate the water. It has to be rich in oxygen so that the roots can breathe. In soil, they do it using pockets of air, but in the water, there are none. 

grow tent diagram scheme with grow lights, ventilation, plants and 5 gallon bucket systems

TheBudGrower Complete All-in-One Home Grow Solution 4x4x7ft- 2200W(2) TheBudGrower Complete All-in-One Home Grow Solution 4x4x7ft- 2200W(2)
  • LED lights specialty manufactured by VIVOSUN with Samsung LM301 diodes for FULL spectrum light
  • The industries most durable grow tent – heavy duty 1680d oxford cloth
  • Money & energy saving complete home grow tent kit
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Step 5: Plant the Seeds and Wait

Put the seeds in the growing media and in the pots. Take care of them according to the instructions on the seed package. As soon as the tiny young roots touch highly nutritious water, you’ll see an explosion of rapid growth!

salanova butterhead salad hydroponic system at home

What Is the Best Recirculating DWC System

There’s no absolute best recirculating DWC system. You have to choose one depending on your needs and budget. There are DIY systems made using elements you have at home and some additional solutions for proper pH and nutrition that are as good as purchased whole systems.

Determine your priorities:

  • Your budget;
  • Type of plant;
  • Volume;
  • Number of pots needed;
  • Quality;
  • Urgency.

Combine the most important criteria, and you’ll see several suitable options to choose from. We highly recommend making quality one of the top criteria. Suiting your budget is always a good thing, but buying a low-quality DWC system that won’t give the desired results will lead to a waste of money.

Where to Find the Best DWC System

You can find a DWC system of any complexity in physical shops and online. There are pros and cons to every type of store, so you should choose depending on what’s more convenient for you.

Physical shops pros:

  • You can see the items right away;
  • There’s no need to wait for the delivery;
  • You can get a consultation on-site by a professional (optional).

Physical shops cons:

  • The prices are usually higher than those of online shops;
  • The range of models might be limited.

Online shops pros:

  • The range is quite impressive;
  • The range of shops is also wide, and they may be more specialized in a certain type of deep water culture system;
  • The prices are often lower than those of brick-and-mortar stores;
  • You can get a delivery to the door;
  • Online shops usually aren’t limited in service during quarantine so you can make a purchase anytime.

Online shops cons:

  • Not all shops have immediate customer service available for consultation;
  • You have to be sure the shop is legit;
  • You’ll have to wait for some time for the delivery.

Online shopping is gaining more and more popularity nowadays. It’s relatively easy to find what you need because there are lots of reviews of certain models online. You can chat with people who have already bought the DWC system you’re interested in and get the best one for your needs.

hydroponics growing system ladybug2

Extra Information About Deep Water Culture

The world of hydroponics is vast, and we’ve just scratched the surface. To whet your appetite a bit more, let’s review some of the other popular topics.

DWC Hydroponic Bucket System: One Bucket or Two Buckets?

4 RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 1 buckets

The easiest DWC system contains one bucket. Most such systems do, but you can connect another one. There are lots of advantages to getting such a model. One bucket is better for small plants, but if yours is expected to grow big, the root ball can get as large as the whole bucket, leaving no space for water and nutrients. Besides, you’ll have to move it every time more water with nutrients is needed. The second bucket solves the problem very well. 

The additional container will be solely for water and nutrients, and all you will have to do to change the concentration or refresh the water is open the lid of this additional bucket and manipulate the liquid in it. As a result, the plant is still and calm.

Also, I can recommend this article to read about How to Set Up Hydroponic Drip Systems.

AeroGarden Bounty Elite - Indoor Garden with LED Grow Light AeroGarden Bounty Elite - Indoor Garden with LED Grow Light
  • WiFi and Alexa Compatible, Stainless Steel Grow up to 9 plants, up to 24duim
  • Includes everything you need to grow
  • 50 watt LED Grow Lights, perfect spectrum for fast growth & big harvests
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Besides, if you have to leave for several days, an additional bucket will provide a vital solution to the plant when you’re not able to do so!

Deep Water Culture Aquaponics Vs. Hydroponics

Aquaponics and hydroponics are similar, except for the first one using live fish to enrich the water with nutrients. It’s costlier and requires more sophisticated tech, installation, level of skills, and materials.

Hydroponics is much easier to use; it’s a more beginner-friendly option and requires minimal skill and budget. You’ll have to take care only of the plant but not the fish. The nutrients are directed to the roots using a special solution, which is much easier than using fish for the purpose.

grow tent vent light hydroponics grow system

Deep Water Culture Nutrients

To get a bit familiar with the nutrients, you need to know three main terms:

  • Micronutrients.
    The plants usually need Chloride, Manganese, Zinc, Iron, Boron, Copper, and Molybdenum. They should be mentioned on the nutrients kit you’re going to buy for your DWC system.
  • Meso-nutrients.
    These are secondary macronutrients, including Calcium, Sulfur, and Magnesium.
  • NPK ratio.
    These are the three main elements: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (K). These are primary micronutrients, and their ratio has to be mentioned on the kit you’re going to buy. The optimal ratio is 4 to 3 to 6, representing the percentage of each respective element in the solution.

Making a mixture yourself requires a lot of knowledge and effort. It’s better to buy ready solutions. They have every element your plants will need, in proper proportions.

grow tent hydroponics dual-layer ventilation openings

Kind tip: change the solution when needed. Usually, the longevity is about three weeks, but it greatly depends on several factors:

  • What plant or plants you’re growing, using the system;
  • Their growth stage at the moment when change is needed;
  • The scale of your system.

A complete change of water and solution might be difficult labor-wise. The easier way is to add a proper ratio of water and nutrients to maintain the proper ratio in the reservoir. However, the measurements are difficult, so a lot of people choose to change the mixture completely.

Lettuce Grow 36-Plant Hydroponic Growing System Kit Lettuce Grow 36-Plant Hydroponic Growing System Kit
  • Large Home Organic Gardening with Self Watering with Pump, BPA Free and Food Grade
  • Outdoor Indoor Vertical Garden Herb Vegetable Planter Tower
  • All the gear: farmstand tower, water pump, power cord, timer; and Nutrients for 130+ Plants
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Summarizing

Hydroponics can help you grow food and plants faster and with better results. The systems aren’t very difficult to build, but you have to be knowledgeable. There are lots of types of deep water culture systems, and choosing the most suitable for you is a must-do!

If you’re a beginner, opt for the traditional method or move further to the recirculating system. Make it a hobby, finding out more and more about every method and its use.

But before you go, tell us if you loved the article. Did it answer your questions? Do you have a feeling that you can build your own DWC system? Share your impressions in the comments!

Happy Growing!

Filed Under: Indoor gardening, Hydroponics growing Tagged With: bucket-system, dwc-system, how-to

What is Aeroponics | A Tutorial

Roger Peters by Roger Peters | Last Updated: March 4, 2023

If you’re new to gardening or looking to expand your skills, you may come across unfamiliar terms, such as aeroponics. Essentially, aeroponics is a method of plant cultivation that does not involve soil. Instead of utilizing soil or water, as with hydroponics, plants are grown without any form of growing medium. A nutrient-rich mist of water is sprayed onto the plant’s exposed roots and lower stem, providing everything the plant needs to thrive. Aeroponically grown plants can develop rapidly due to the ample supply of oxygen that their roots receive.

This is the method used by NASA to grow plants in space, which is how I first learned of aeroponics. It’s one of the coolest ways to grow a plant, and lets you see just how roots develop close up. While it may not seem like it, it is possible to grow aeroponics at home, you just need to be ready to create your own system for growing your plants. While there are commercial options out there, I find most to be too expensive for a home gardener. If you’re anything like me and love unique ways to grow plants, this is a great DIY project to take on.

Top recommended articles about hydroponics growing

If you are interested in Aeroponics you can also be interested in home hydroponic systems to help you easily start tp grow plants. Our top articles: Our Picks for the  5 Grow Tent Kits, Picks for the 5 Aeroponics Systems, Our Picks for the 5 Hydroponic Bucket Systems with Buyer’s Guides, and Our Picks for the 5 best indoor vertical Garden, and Led Grow Lights for an indoor plant.

 

What You Will Need

  • 1. Two 5 gallon buckets
  • 2. Submersible pump, look for one meant for fountains with a high output
  • 3. Spray heads
  • 4. PVC primer and cement
  • 5. Timer
  • 6. 3″ Net Pot
  • 7. Schedule 40 PVC pipe cut into 3 x 1″ pieces, 1 x 7/8″ piece, and 2 x 3″ pieces
  • 8. 2 x 1/2″ couplers
  • 9. 2 x 1/2″ caps
  • 10. 2 x 1/2″ slip 45 degree elbows
  • 11. 1 x 90 degree T
  • 12. 1 x 1/2″ adaptor threaded/slip to screw into the pump
  • 13. 11/64″ Drill bit
  • 14. 11/16″ Drill Bit
  • 15. 3″ hole saw
  • 16. Clay pebbles/hydroton
  • 17. 1 x 1 7/8″ hole saw
  • 18. 2″ neoprene cloning collar
  • 19. Small Zip ties, at least 6

aeroponic schema with mist nozzle nutrient pump timer reservoir with water and nutrients

System Types

There are two types of systems for aeroponics. These are the low-pressure and high-pressure systems. Low-pressure systems are the most familiar, and typically use easily found parts such as fountain pumps and sprinkler heads. These systems work great, but the larger droplet size means that the plants get less oxygen to the roots and will take longer to grow. They are also considered to be mostly hydroponic systems thanks to a large amount of moisture on the roots.

High-pressure systems use more specialized parts, making them more expensive, but they do offer the fastest growing and are true aeroponic systems. Ultrasonic foggers can work for aeroponics, they can be a good solution. Personally, I love fogger systems, but finding the right fogger isn’t easy and I feel like the plants wilt a bit faster. This makes them a bit less forgiving for beginners.

AeroGarden Bounty Elite - Indoor Garden with LED Grow Light AeroGarden Bounty Elite - Indoor Garden with LED Grow Light
  • WiFi and Alexa Compatible, Stainless Steel Grow up to 9 plants, up to 24duim
  • Includes everything you need to grow
  • 50 watt LED Grow Lights, perfect spectrum for fast growth & big harvests
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

This tutorial is for a low-pressure system since I feel that is most successful for a beginner. Hopefully, you have some experience with hydroponics already so you know about the nutrient solutions needed to grow, but this information is easy to find. Just buy a hydroponic nutrient solution and follow the directions on the label. You can use this system for both cloning and growing plants. Clones generally just need regular water, instead of nutrients. If you love making clones for friends or family, I would advise one of the box systems with plenty of spaces for plants. There are some good commercial options out there that also include covers to help avoid shock.

Other Systems to Try

If you enjoy the basic idea, using an ultrasonic fogger is the next step since a basic system is cheap to create and maintain. High-pressure systems are best for people with experience who know how to set up a pressurized system.

How to build an aeroponic tower garden and what is it?

You can also try constructing an aeroponic tower system to grow more plants. A tower system is the same concept, but places for plants are on the outside rather than the top. Most are made using large PVC pipes or barrels. You can build one by drilling holes in the side of a barrel and adding smaller PVC pipes to act as the plant holders. Make sure there is enough room inside for the mist to reach all the plants.

How to maintain ph levels naturally aeroponics system

PH levels should be checked regularly, with the strips or a drop system. If your levels are off, most nutrient manufacturers have cheap solutions to raise or lower pH. Make sure to check daily so you catch problems early.

If you are looking for yield, both hydroponics and aeroponics beat outgrowing in soil. However, aeroponics tends to grow plants faster. Low-pressure systems like this grow the slowest, but still faster than hydroponics. Fogger systems and high-pressure systems grow more quickly. If you’ve ever heard of commercial aeroponics, those systems are almost always high-pressure systems.

What is the difference between aeroponics and hydroponics

Remember, hydroponics grow plants with the roots directly in the water with nutrients added, while aeroponics has the roots in the air with the nutrient water sprayed onto them.

Indoor vertical herb garden exampel 2

Material Notes

My list is to give you options to customize your system to your needs.

For the buckets, I based this on a basic 5-gallon bucket. This can hold one larger plant like tomato or pepper if you add some PVC piping or a trellis, or you can grow several smaller plants. If you want more space, you can use a larger plastic tote that is opaque. Your roots need to be kept in the dark, so don’t use anything that lets in light. Make sure it has a tight-fitting lid to keep up humidity.

Your pump needs to be able to handle a good amount of pressure. Look for one that pumps more gallons per hour. The larger your system and the higher the number of nozzles or sprinkler heads, the stronger your pump needs to be.

46 Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Or An Aeroponics Indoor Growing System

Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Indoor Growing System Aerospring 27-Plant Vertical Hydroponics Indoor Growing System
  • Easy to use aeroponic system for your home
  • Fan - Grow Lettuce, Herbs, Veggies & Fruits
  • Grow smart & eat healthy, 20 gallon water reservoir Grow Tent, LED Grow Lights
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The PVC piping is to support the sprinkler heads at the right height. You will need to cut a variety of sizes that will fit. The listed sizes work with the bucket and will give you plenty of coverage for one plant. If you are making a larger system, then you should be sure to test fit the whole sprinkler system to make sure it will fit in the space you have.

A timer is needed to run it. You can watch your plant and adjust the timer if they seem to need more water. Plants in an aeroponic system tend to show that they need more water quickly.

Tools, Tips, and Expanding Your System

This system grows one larger plant, but you could add more holes with smaller pots to grow more plants. This is good if you have smaller plants like herbs or if you are cloning in your system.

The 3-inch net pot will hole one larger plant like a pepper, however, you could use several smaller pots. You could also opt for a 6-inch net pot that will work as a lid. You can find these available online.

For the drill bits, you don’t need the exact size, but it should be smaller than what you need. You can carefully use a utility knife to slowly enlarge any holes until the pipes fit snuggly. Also, if you find your drill trying to skip or refusing to dig in, I have found using a nail to punch a small guide hole to help. I just use a large nail meant for holding heavier pictures.

Grow Room Schema with grow lights, ventilation, plants and 5 gallon bucket systems

TheBudGrower Complete All-in-One Home Grow Solution 4x4x7ft- 2200W(2) TheBudGrower Complete All-in-One Home Grow Solution 4x4x7ft- 2200W(2)
  • LED lights specialty manufactured by VIVOSUN with Samsung LM301 diodes for FULL spectrum light
  • The industries most durable grow tent – heavy duty 1680d oxford cloth
  • Money & energy saving complete home grow tent kit
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The clay pebbles are for stabilizing the plant, you could use coco coir. Either one will work well for keeping a plant stable. I have also seen systems using pieces of foam since they don’t compress the stem as it grows. If you use foam on a smaller plant, you shouldn’t need a net pot.

The neoprene collar is to help seal the hole the power cable for the pump runs through. You could use foam instead, or anything that will seal the hole from light while still allowing your cable out.

indoor vegetable garden growing hydroponic wall 3

BONUS: Creating Your Aeroponics System Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1. Gather Your Parts and Test the Fit

You should make sure all your PVC pipe segments are cut and ready to go. Test fitting all the parts before you drill or seal anything ensures that it will all come together at the end.

Step 2. Drill Your Inner Bucket

Once you know your pipes all fit together, you need to drill the holes in the inner bucket. This will keep all the parts of your system and the plant contained so you can easily move this inner bucket into a new bucket of nutrient solution. Drill a hole to fit the pipe that connects to your pump, making sure there is a tight fit. Then add the holes to the sides of the bucket and around the bottom so that any sprayed solution will drain back to the outer bucket. You should also make a whole that the power cord will fit through so you can run it back through the bucket and out the lid. Make sure you use a utility knife to clean up any rough edges and bits of plastic. These could damage your pump if left alone.

Step 3. Cut the Lid

Now it is time to cut the hole for your net pot. Mark out where you want the hole to be, and drill holes for zip ties so you can secure the net pot. Then you can use a hole cutter, or mark it out and carefully cut it with your utility blade to create the space for the pot.

Step 4. Prime and Glue the Adaptor

Now you need to prime and cement the parts of the PVC adaptor that will go through your bucket to link your pump to your spray manifold inside the inner bucket. The primer and cement are generally sold together, so make sure you buy the set for PVC and follow the directions on the package. Use the primer first, do not skip it or you may face leakage and low pressure later on.

Step 5. Install the Spray Nozzles

You should take apart your spray manifold and drill in where you will place the spray nozzles. Then just push the nozzles in. So long as you used the right size drill bit, they should fit tightly.

Step 6. Prime and Cement the Spray Manifold

Just like you put together the adaptor, now you can put together the spray manifold. It should reach upwards with the nozzles facing up.  This is when you should check to make sure the whole system doesn’t rock around since once the cement dries it should be very solid.

RDWC 5 Gallon bucket system scheme whith air pump and timer anf example plants in 4 plant buckets and 1 only nutrient bucket

Recirculating Deep Water Culture (RDWC) Hydroponic Grow Kit System Recirculating Deep Water Culture (RDWC) Hydroponic Grow Kit System
  • Reservoir Bucket Connected to 4 Grow Buckets
  • 400 Gallon/hour Circulating Pump
  • Large 5 gallon square buckets, pre-drilled
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Step 7. Install the Net Pot and Drill the Power Cord Hole

Now you need to focus on the lid. Cut an offset hole for the power cord to go through using the 1 7/8″ hole cutter to fit a 2-inch neoprene collar. You can also place your net pot and use the zip ties to hold it in place. If you are using the integrated bucket lid and pot, you only need to cut a hole for the power cord.

Step 8. Spray Test

Now it’s time to fit everything together and add water to the outer bucket so you can test that the spray works. So long as you followed the direction, you should have a result like a video linked here. If not, you need to troubleshoot. If you aren’t getting good pressure, you may have sealed things poorly, or your pump may be too weak.

Step 9. Add the Neoprene Collar and Prepare to Plant

Now we are finally ready to add your plant! First, put your neoprene collar into the hole you cut for your power cord and feed it through. Next, you can add your plant to the net pot. If you’ve prepared a young plant for hydroponics, you already know what to do. If not, the goal is to carefully free the roots from the soil using a bowl of water. Be very gentle and lightly massage to help free the roots. Don’t be rough or you may damage the roots and kill the plant. Carefully add the roots to the net pot. Your plant won’t stay up on its own, this is what the pre-washed clay pebbles or coco coir are for. Hold the plant upright and carefully add the pebbles around until the plant is standing on its own.

Step 10. Place Your Plant, Add Nutrients, and Plugin the Timer

We’re on the home stretch now. If you are growing indoors, you should select a spot with plenty of light or an area you have a grow light set up. If not, pick a spot outside that will meet the light needs of your plant. Once it is placed, add your water and nutrients according to the package directions. You should also plug your pump into the timer and set it to be on for 5 minutes and off for 5 minutes. If you are growing indoors, you could add a small fan to the same timer to increase airflow and grow a healthier plant. This isn’t necessary if you will be growing outdoors. You can always adjust the timer if you need to later on. Just watch your plant.

Step 11. Enjoy Your New Aeroponics System!

As you can see, this system can grow a big, healthy plant easily. For a larger plant like the pepper that is grown in the video, you can add a trellis to give it some support. PVC pipe works fine, or a trellis bought at a gardening store.

General Hydroponics Flora Grow, Bloom, Micro Combo Fertilizer, 1 gallon (Pack of 3) General Hydroponics Flora Grow, Bloom, Micro Combo Fertilizer, 1 gallon (Pack of 3)
  • Сomplete nutrient system
  • Highly purified concentrates for maximum solubility
  • NASAAntarctic research scientists choose flora series!
Check Price
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

In Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial as much as I enjoyed writing it. I love hydroponics, and aeroponics is a step up in my opinion. A simpler and relatively cheap system like this is a great intro to growing in this way. If you have any thoughts or questions, make sure to leave a comment below. If you feel like a friend would love this, be sure to share the tutorial with them.

Filed Under: Hydroponics growing, Indoor gardening Tagged With: aeroponic

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Navigation
  • Privacy Policy
  • Search

Get Incredible Results With a Hydroponic System!

Copyright © 2020 - 2023 · AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE Some posts may contain affiliate links. hydrogardengeek.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.