Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions we're often asked regarding hydroponics and hydroponics systems.  We hope this is helpful.  However, if you have a question we haven't covered, please feel free to ask it in an email.

Why do plants grow quicker and produce more in a hydroponic system?

Hydroponic systems basically spoon-feed plants their perfect food; they are highly efficient systems.  In soil, plants spend a great deal of time and energy growing a large root system to find food and water.  Additionally, nutrients in soil must be broken down first before they can be used, if they're even present.  With hydroponics, because food and water are delivered directly to the roots, the plant can spend its energy on producing more vegetation, larger fruit, flowers and vegetables.  This efficiency allows plants to grow up to two times faster and with larger yields than with conventional soil gardening methods.

How do I choose the right system for me?

There are several things to consider in choosing a system, for example: How much available growing space do you have?  What types of plants do you want to grow?  What is your budget?  How much time do you want to spend?  Do you want a single module, a complete ready-to-grow system (pictured above), or a system you can expand later?  The answers to these questions will help you to choose the best hydroponic system for you.

How do hydroponic systems compare to conventional gardens with regard to space?

Hydroponic systems require less space.  In hydroponics, food and water are delivered directly to the roots in a solution that plants can easily absorb. Because of this efficient delivery of food and water, plants don’t need to grow a large root system to find food and water.  This efficiency also keeps the root systems compact in size, so plants may be grown closer together.

How much room do I need?

Hydroponic systems range from shelf size, room size, or can fill an entire greenhouse. Systems can be purchased as a complete ready-to-grow kit or as a modular, expandable growing system.

Where is the best place to set up a hydroponic system?

Hydroponic gardens can be set up indoors or outdoors as long as there is sufficient light along with good ventilation.  Outdoors - hydroponic systems eliminate much of the work associated with conventional gardening (weeding, digging, etc.).  Indoors - with the proper growing lights - you can garden year-round!

What kind of maintenance is involved with a hydroponic system?

The maintenance to run a system is fairly simple:

ü      Add water to the reservoir tank, and top off whenever it gets low

ü      Add the proper ratio of nutrients

ü      Use a timer with the pump, and water in cycles depending on the hydroponic method and type of crops

ü      Keep pH at 6.0 to 6.8

ü      Change out solution every 1-3 weeks depending on water consumption

What does a hydroponic system consist of?

There is no typical set-up, but depending on which system and configuration you choose, the various elements could include:  a reservoir (to hold water and nutrients), grow trays or grow pots (to hold the plants and/or grow media), grow media, a water pump, and a timer.

How much experience do I need?

None really -- just a desire to garden.  With a little effort you can enjoy fresh flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables all year around!