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Best Things to Grow in an AeroGarden


Indoor gardening has become increasingly accessible and rewarding, thanks to innovations like the AeroGarden. This smart countertop garden allows you to grow a variety of plants year-round, regardless of weather conditions. With its built-in grow lights and automated watering system, even those with the busiest schedules or smallest living spaces can cultivate fresh herbs, vegetables, and more.

Selecting the right plants to grow in your AeroGarden can enhance your cooking, provide nutritional benefits, and even add a touch of green to your home decor. Salad greens, herbs, and certain vegetables thrive in these hydroponic systems, giving you the opportunity to enjoy homegrown produce without the need for a traditional outdoor garden.

Understanding the capabilities of your AeroGarden is key to maximizing its potential. Plants that require less space and have shorter growth cycles are ideal for such compact systems. It’s not just about saving space; it’s also about ensuring that each plant gets the proper care and attention it needs to flourish. With the right choices, you can turn your AeroGarden into a bountiful and lush indoor garden.

Understanding Aerogarden Fundamentals

Before diving into the best plants for your Aerogarden, gain clarity on the basics of an Aerogarden’s operations and advantages. This fundamental knowledge ensures you make the most of your indoor gardening system.

What is an Aerogarden?

An Aerogarden is a brand of indoor garden that operates on a hydroponic system, eliminating the need for soil. You provide the seeds, and your Aerogarden takes care of the light, water, and nutrients. These indoor gardening systems come in different models to fit various spaces and preferences, ensuring you can find one that suits your needs.

Benefits of an Aerogarden Indoor Garden

Convenience and efficiency are at the heart of the Aerogarden’s design. Plants in an Aerogarden grow in nutrient-rich water, which can lead to 5x faster growth compared to traditional soil gardening. Not only can this result in larger yields, but plants tend to be healthier overall. Moreover, as a soil-free system, it dramatically reduces the risks of pests, making your indoor gardening experience far more manageable.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Aerogarden

When selecting plants for your Aerogarden, it’s essential to consider their compatibility with the system’s environment. Opt for plants that thrive in water-based growing conditions and have similar light and nutrient requirements for the most successful harvest.

Herbs Suited for Aerogardens

Herbs are a prime choice for Aerogarden cultivation due to their compact size and lower light requirements. Basil varieties, like Genovese and Thai basil, are robust growers in these systems. Other popular herbs include mint, parsley, thyme, dill, and oregano. Fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, and rosemary can be easily grown from seed pods tailored for Aerogarden use.

  • Suggested Herb Varieties:
    • Basil (Genovese and Thai)
    • Mint (various)
    • Parsley (Italian and curly)
    • Thyme
    • Dill
    • Chives
    • Cilantro
    • Oregano
    • Rosemary
    • Sage

Herbs like sage and tarragon, which prefer drier conditions, can also flourish when carefully monitored for adequate drainage and spacing.

Best Vegetables to Cultivate

Choosing the right vegetables for your Aerogarden ensures a bountiful yield. Lettuce and salad greens such as arugula, kale, and romaine thrive due to their minimal space needs. Small varieties of tomatoes like cherry tomatoes and peppers, including bell peppers and chili peppers, adapt well to the confined growing space of an Aerogarden. For root vegetables, radishes are compact enough to grow efficiently.

  • Optimal Vegetable Options:
    • Lettuce (butterhead, romaine, leafy greens)
    • Tomatoes (cherry varieties)
    • Peppers (bell, chili)
    • Salad greens (arugula, kale, swiss chard)
    • Radishes (cherry belle)

It’s beneficial to purchase Grow Anything Seed Pods for vegetables that aren’t typically included with Aerogarden kits, such as beet greens or peas.

Flowering Plants and Ornamentals

Aerogardens aren’t limited to edible varieties; they’re also conducive to growing a range of flowering and ornamental plants. For a touch of color, consider growing marigolds or lavender, which can add beauty and also help deter pests. Compact flowering vegetables such as broccoli and mustard greens, which produce edible flowers, can also be grown.

  • Flowering Plant Choices:
    • Marigold
    • Lavender
    • Edible flowers from mustard greens and broccoli

While your Aerogarden can support a variety of plants, it is particularly well-suited for small, compact species that do not require deep root systems or extensive space to thrive. Keep this in mind as you plant, and explore using accessory kits like the Grow Anything Seed Pods to broaden your garden’s horizons.

Aerogarden Planting and Seed Selection

When embarking on your AeroGarden journey, the foundation of a thriving garden is the seed selection. Using the proper seed pods and kits tailored for your model will ensure successful growth, whether you’re cultivating vegetables, herbs, or flowers.

Understanding Seed Pods and Kits

Seed pods are the heart of the AeroGarden planting system. These ready-to-use pods contain non-GMO seeds, grow media, and nutrients, all packaged within a small biodegradable container. The simplicity of these pods means that you just have to insert them into your AeroGarden device, often specific to the model—like the Sprout, Bounty, or Farm models—and watch as they germinate and grow. Most seed kits are species-specific, offering a carefully curated selection for growing fresh herbs like basil and mint, luscious vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers, or even beautiful flowers.

Going Beyond Kit Selection: Custom Seed Pod Kits

For a more personalized gardening experience, grow anything seed pods empower you with the flexibility to plant seeds of your choice. Whether you’re looking to experiment with unique herb varieties or diversify your vegetable yield, these kits allow you to transform your AeroGarden into a custom garden. You’re not limited to the seed pod kits or collections available; you can source your own non-GMO seeds and utilize the grow media and nutrients provided in the grow anything seed pods to start your planting adventure.

Aerogarden Care and Management

Managing your AeroGarden involves optimizing light exposure, maintaining proper water and nutrient levels, and regular pruning. These practices ensure that your plants receive the ideal conditions they need for robust growth in a soil-free, hydroponic environment.

Optimizing Light for Growth

Your AeroGarden’s grow lights are crucial for plant development. Position the lights close enough to support germination and growth but far enough away to prevent overheating or light burn. Most AeroGardens have adjustable light hoods to achieve this balance. It’s recommended to leave the lights on for around 12 to 16 hours daily to mimic the sun’s natural cycle, which encourages photosynthesis.

Water and Nutrients

Your plants need a consistent supply of water and plant food to thrive. Stick to the AeroGarden’s guidelines for adding water; ensure the water level doesn’t fall below the recommended point. Mix the nutrients or plant food provided by your AeroGarden kit with water, following the specific dosage instructions. Typically, you’ll add nutrients every two weeks, but check your plant’s growth and adjust accordingly. Monitor the pH of your water, as most plants prefer a slightly acidic environment (pH 5.5-6.5).

The Role of Pruning in Indoor Gardening

Pruning is essential to maintain plant health and bolster harvests. By selectively removing portions of the plant, you encourage better airflow, prevent overgrowth, and can direct energy to fruit-bearing branches. Start pruning once your plant has multiple sets of leaves, focusing on dead or overgrown branches. This also helps in managing light distribution, as denser foliage can block light from reaching lower parts of the plant. Remember, effective pruning can lead to more fruitful yields in your indoor gardening endeavors.

Advanced Aerogarden Techniques

To elevate your AeroGarden productivity, focusing on space efficiency and alternative growing methodologies can lead to more abundant harvests. These advanced techniques help you get the most out of your indoor garden.

Maximizing Space with Vertical Growth

In the realm of hydroponic systems like the AeroGarden, vertical growth is a game-changer for space conservation. Vertical growth allows you to expand the variety of growing plants without requiring additional horizontal space. To implement this:

  • Use a trellis system to support climbing plants such as cucumbers or peas.
  • Train plants like tomatoes to grow upwards by gently tying the stems to the trellis with soft ties.
  • Consider pruning strategically, so that the plants focus their energy upwards rather than outwards, which is especially useful for larger vegetables like eggplant.

Taking advantage of the vertical space not only maximizes your indoor garden’s potential but also makes maintenance and harvesting easier.

Hybrid Growing: Integrating Soil-Based Techniques

While the AeroGarden is a fully hydroponic system, borrowing certain soil-based techniques can benefit your hydroponic growing experience:

  • Introduce beneficial microorganisms, typically found in soil, to help with nutrient uptake and root health.
  • Implement a hydro-organic approach, using organic fertilizers compatible with hydroponic setups to enhance plant growth.

By integrating these soil-based practices into your AeroGarden, you can foster a more natural growing environment, potentially improving both the yield and health of your indoor garden.

Troubleshooting Common Aerogarden Issues

When cultivating plants in an AeroGarden, you may encounter specific issues like plant diseases and pests. Efficiently managing these challenges is key to ensuring a thriving indoor garden.

Preventing and Managing Plant Diseases

Your AeroGarden plants may be susceptible to diseases, which typically manifest as discolored leaves or stunted growth. To prevent fungal and bacterial diseases, ensure your garden has proper air circulation and avoid over-watering which can create excessively humid conditions conducive to these issues.

  • Prevention:
    • Regularly clean your AeroGarden unit.
    • Change the water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Management:
    • Remove affected plant parts immediately.
    • Use a food-safe fungicide if necessary.

Dealing with Pests: Herbicides and Pesticides

Pests can invade even the most meticulously maintained AeroGarden. To tackle unwanted insects, it’s important to act promptly. Avoid using traditional herbicides and pesticides, as these may not be safe for your indoor gardening system.

  • Preventative Measures:
    • Inspect new plants before adding them to the AeroGarden.
    • Keep the growing area clean to discourage pests.
  • Treatment:
    • Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, if applicable.
    • For minor infestations, a solution of soapy water can often suffice.

By attentively observing your AeroGarden and addressing diseases and pests swiftly, you can safeguard your indoor garden, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and productive part of your home.

Expanding Your Aerogarden Experience

As you delve into the world of indoor gardening, you’ll find that Aerogardens offer an extensive range of models and plant options that go far beyond traditional vegetables. Mastering these choices will greatly enhance your Aerogarden experience.

Exploring Different Aerogarden Models

Choosing the right Aerogarden model is a pivotal step in your indoor gardening journey. The Sprout is perfect for beginners, compact and efficient for small spaces. If you’re looking to grow a larger variety of plants, the Harvest model provides more grow height and space. For the most ambitious gardeners, the Bounty models are top-tier, boasting full-spectrum LED lights, larger water reservoirs, and more pod capacity for a broader plant variety.

Growing Beyond Vegetables: Fruits and Houseplants

Your Aerogarden isn’t limited to vegetables; it’s a versatile system that can accommodate a wide array of plants. You can grow juicy strawberries or even venture into cultivating blueberries. If you’re into more exotic tastes, eggplants can add a unique flair to your indoor collection. Beyond edibles, consider adding houseplants such as succulents which require minimal maintenance. Fragrant lavender or vibrant petunias and dianthus can spruce up your living space. For a relaxing ambiance, chamomile is a go-to, while shungiku and coreopsis provide a burst of varied colors and textures.

Seasonal and Exotic Plant Varieties

Indoor gardening with an Aerogarden allows for experimentation with seasonal and exotic plant varieties. Try your hand at growing chamomile in the winter for a calming tea, or shungiku in the early spring for its flavorful leaves in salads. With careful selection of seed kits or custom seeds and the right settings, even coreopsis with its bright blossoms can thrive. If you’re feeling adventurous, introduce exotic tastes like eggplants to your Aerogarden and watch them flourish under the ideal conditions your model provides.

Types of Reusable Hydroponic Growing Medium


clay aggregate

There’s nothing like a sweet, ripe, juicy strawberry freshly picked from the vine. If someone were to ask me in the past about how strawberries are grown, I would have almost reflexively replied with: “In dirt of course!” Yet, soil is not the only medium used to grow fruits and vegetables. There are alternatives to soil, such as reusable hydroponic growing medium, which offer many benefits over the traditional way of growing food. 

What are the different types of reusable hydroponic growing media? The different types of reusable hydroponic growing media include clay pebbles (hydroton), perlite, peat moss, and coco coir. These methods do not use soil to grow food; rather, they use mineral nutrient solutions in a water solvent. 

While these methods may sound intriguing, it makes sense for one to wonder why they could (and should) resort to these alternatives rather than sticking to the soil. The reason lies in the many benefits of using reusable hydroponic methods, including environmental, conservational, and sustainability reasons. 

What Are the Different Types of Reusable Hydroponic Growing Media?

As mentioned, there are a number of different growing media using reusable hydroponic methods. These methods can vary in their precise uses and benefits. The four most commonly utilized reusable hydroponic systems are:

1. Clay Pebbles

Clay pebbles are widely used in the hydroponics world. They are filled with tiny air pockets, which gives them ample drainage. This method is best for systems that utilize more frequent watering. 

Clay pebbles do not retain water very well, so this may not be the best idea if you are mostly looking to spread out your watering. Though this method still uses less water than conventional soil, it is not the most conservationist option among the hydroponic media.

2. Perlite 

Perlite is another commonly used hydroponics method. Perlite is great for wick-like hydroponic systems and can be a great soil additive as well. This method is also not the greatest when it comes to water retention, so it is important to keep that in mind, once again, depending on your maintenance style and preference. 

3. Peat moss

Unlike the last two methods, peat moss is highly absorbent and utilizes long strands of sponge-like material to retain large amounts of water. This allows for less frequent watering of the plants

The downside to this system is that it is not as long-lasting as the other two and tends to decompose over time. Depending on your preferences, this may be an ideal method if you are looking to change out peat moss a bit more frequently while utilizing less water overall. 

4. Coco coir 

Coco coir is considered the first completely “organic” hydroponic method. Not only can coco coir retain water, but it also retains oxygen very well. Some research has even shown that coco noir has insect repellent properties. This method is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, as it has many simultaneous benefits. 

How Do Hydroponic Growing Media Work?

Hydroponic media must utilize both oxygen and water in order to function properly and provide the best environment for plants to grow. Since soil is not included in the process, this method requires the plants’ roots to have direct access to water, oxygen, and the nutrients they need in order to provide the most optimal environment for their growth and sustainability. 

What Are The Benefits of Using Hydroponics Over Soil?

As previously mentioned, utilizing the hydroponic medium to grow food is beneficial in various ways. This method benefits the environment, enforces conservation, encourages sustainability, and is increasingly becoming a preferred alternative to the traditional method of soil for various reasons. 

Which Hydroponic Growing Medium Is Best?

All of the reusable hydroponic growing media mentioned are effective at creating sustainable, efficient, environmental-friendly growth of food. The coco coir medium is starting to become one of the most highly regarded hydroponic methods globally, due to its benefits outweighing its cons. This is an option many are turning to.

Some people like to experiment with different options before choosing to stick with one. Others like to switch between methods, depending on the outcomes, the food grown, and the approaches themselves. It is really up to you–have fun with it.

Do you have any other medium you like to you? Let me know in the comments!

Is It Possible to Do Hydroponics Outdoors?


Growing hydroponics is a simple and potentially cheaper way of growing your fruits and vegetables without soil. It is the process of growing your plants in rocks, sand, or liquid either indoors or outdoors. But is growing your garden outdoors going to benefit you more?

parsley in a blue container

Is it possible to do hydroponics outdoors? Growing hydroponically outdoors is a good way to cut back on lighting costs while using the sun as a natural light source. It is an inexpensive alternative to growing indoors or in a greenhouse. 

Though it is possible to have a substantial garden indoors, growing your garden outdoors may have more benefits. The possibilities for hydroponic gardening outdoors are endless. As there are many advantages to outdoor hydroponics, there can also be some drawbacks that come with it.

Is Outdoor Hydroponics Possible?

There are many positives to outdoor hydroponics. For starters, the sun is the best possible source for natural light you can come by. As all plants need natural lighting, you won’t need to worry about finding an expensive lighting system that imitates the natural benefits of the sun. Not only is this the best way to get your plants the natural lighting they need, but it also saves you massive amounts of money. 

Space and Upkeep

Having your hydroponic garden outdoors can save you from taking up space in your home or using up all of your greenhouse space. Growing your plants outdoors will give you the opportunity to build a larger system, as well as more systems. The possibility of having more than one set up is there, whereas it wouldn’t be if your garden were indoors. 

Another advantage to growing your plants outdoors in a large system is the abundance of produce and crop you will be growing. The added space you allow your plants to grow will give them more chance to breathe and thrive. There will be no worries of cross-breeding your crop because everything grows separately, and you will be able to grow multiple types of vegetation at once. 

The upkeep for the water of your outdoor hydroponic system is often easier than an indoor system as well. Having your system outdoors allows you to easily change the water in your system without the hassle of finding a close water source. You will also have the option to dilute your old nutrient solution and reuse it on your plants that are planted in soil. 

Pollination

Because your plants are already outside, bees will have full-time access to pollinating your garden for you. The process of pollinating an indoor garden is a long and tedious one. Not only do you have to do it by hand, one by one, but you will have to do this process as often as every few days. Keeping your hydroponics system outdoors eliminates this process by allowing the bees and other pollinating insects to take on the responsibility for you. 

Price

Just to paint the picture of comparison in your mind, the cost of starting an indoor hydroponics garden can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to a couple thousand. It all depends on how large your set up will be and the type a style you choose to use. Some systems can run you about $150 for a system, whereas sometimes you might come across a more complex system that costs around $450. You can always find some even more expensive, costing around $1,000. 

These prices are not including the additional equipment you would need for an indoor garden, including lighting, fans, and ventilation. Additionally, You will need to buy the nutrient solution needed for plants to grow, as well as supplements, a pH meter, and pH control. All supplements and pH tools are needed for all gardens, whether or not it will be indoors or outdoors. 

The price after start-up isn’t as bad. The only regular purchases you will need to make for your outdoor garden are for the nutrients and supplements. Otherwise, If your garden is too large for only you to eat and use, you could make a supplemental income by selling your extra produce to local friends and family. 

The Drawbacks

Though having an outdoor hydroponics garden is beneficial in terms of pollinating insects, other insects can often harm your garden. The only way to prevent harmful bugs from getting into your garden is by moving your garden indoors to a greenhouse. An example of harmful insects that can get into your garden is fungus gnats. Some insects might take up home in your garden as well which may help alleviate the side effects of the harmful insects as well.

Another example of harmful pests getting into your garden is herbivores getting into your yard and eating your garden. You will have both of these issues with any outdoor garden you have, though an outdoor hydroponic garden is large and lush which can attract more animals. 

Temperatures and the Elements

A benefit of having your garden indoors is the ability to control the temperature of the room your garden is growing in. This benefit is not extended to outdoor gardens. There is no way to control the temperature of the outdoors, effectively taking away any control you might have had in keeping your plants in their necessary environments. The same goes for cold temperatures. Outdoor hydroponics is simply impossible to do during the winter because it is too cold to grow. 

A way you can help alleviate any strain this may cause on your garden is by shading your garden from the sun. A simple way to do this is by simply using a shade cloth to block the sun from directly hitting your garden on those hot days. Another neat trick to keep your garden healthy is by using and lower strength nutrient solution. It is important to stay within the recommended amounts for your plants but choosing the lowest of the recommended strength could help.

The sun can not only harm your plants, but it can shorten the lifespan of your hydroponic system as well. The UV rays having direct sunlight can wear your system down and shorten the usage you will get out of it. Also, the weather’s elements, such as rain, hail, and snow can damage your outdoor system. 

Speaking of rain, if too much rainwater has a chance to enter your hydroponic system, it has the opportunity to dilute the pH balance of your carefully measured balance of nutrient solution. This makes it hard for your plants to get the proper nutrients they require to grow. This is a situation in which a tarp or cover of some sort may help protect your outdoor garden. 

Conclusion

Having an outdoor hydroponics garden has both its ups and downs, but at the end of the day the benefits far out way the drawbacks. Not only is it cheaper to start up and continue to grow outdoors, but you also have the natural light of the sun. Because of this, you won’t need to worry about the expensive lighting that comes along with indoor gardening. 

Even more so, the pollination done by insects that live to pollinate will save you hours of time spent wrist-deep in plants. Instead of spending hours pollinating every plant by hand, multiple times a week, you can spend that time doing other things, like researching other plants you might be interested in growing. The opportunities you have growing your hydroponics garden outdoors far outweigh any benefit to indoor gardening.

The Beginners Guide to the Kratky Method of Hydroponics


Kratky method supplies

Growing vegetables, whether for yourself or a business, can be quite the endeavor. Hydroponics, or the growing of plants without soil, is becoming increasingly popular in our modern world. The Kratky Method is one of the simplest ways of doing this.

Here is our step-by-step beginner’s guide to the Kratky method of hydroponics:

Gardeners love the Kratky method of hydroponics because it involves no electricity or attention as the plant grows. Read on to learn how to set your plant up and let them grow, and in a few short weeks, you can have luscious plants ready to eat. 

Step by Step Guide to the Kratky Method of Hydroponics

By following these guidelines carefully, anyone can have a garden growing in just a short time with the Kratky method. Before beginning, collect the following supplies:

  • Five-gallon bucket
  • Net pots
  • Uncontaminated water
  • pH test and control kit
  • Hydroponic nutrients
  • Growing medium

Using these materials, you can have a DIY hydroponic setup in just a few hours.

1. Building Your Reservoir

While there are many different ways to make a suitable container for the Kratky method, using a five-gallon bucket is a great place to start. Each five-gallon bucket can hold a plant as it grows to maturity. But, you will need an additional bucket for each plant you want to grow. 

After procuring your bucket, cut a hole in the center of the lid to the size of your net pots. Most people choose a 3” pot and, therefore, cut a 3” hole. You can make the hole with a large drill bit or with a small drill bit and saw. 

2. Adding Water and Nutrients

Now that the bucket is ready, you need to add the water and nutrients, so the plant has something to drink from. The plants will need good, uncontaminated water. Often, town and city water has a high concentration of particulates that can have a detrimental effect. So, opt for filtered water or buy inexpensive distilled water from your local grocery store.  

Next, fill the bucket up with your clean water until it is three inches from the top. Follow the instructions on your hydroponic nutrients bottle to nourish the water. Make sure to stir each nutrient in well.

3. Checking the pH

The pH tells us how acidic or basic a substance is. On a scale from 0 to 14, 7 is considered neutral. For growing leafy greens, the desired pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. This slightly basic solution produces optimum performance for the root system. 

To check the pH, you will need a pH test kit. This will allow you to test the pH, but it will also give you precise chemicals to raise or lower the pH as needed. Most pH tests will be a small strip that you dip into the water. Then, it will change color to blue, green, yellow, or red. By comparing the test strip color to a provided chart, you can determine the pH and adjust accordingly.

4. Planting & Inserting the Plant

The Kratky method is a hands-off method once you get the system going. This means that it is simple, but also is not able to keep up with plants that have high nutrient demands. So, it is best to focus on growing leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula. 

Start your seed or a small plant in the growing medium in the net pot. One of the best choices of growing medium for hydroponics is clay pebbles. As a natural and pH-neutral element, it can provide a clean and healthy growing environment for your plant. 

Once your seed or plant has started growing in the medium, insert the net pot and plant into the lid of the bucket. The nutrient-dense water should cover the bottom third of the net pot. This will allow it to nourish the plant and keep the medium moist while it is still small. The water level will decrease as the plant grows, but the plant’s roots will follow the water at the same rate.

This hands-off method keeps air circulating among the roots as the water level drops, and it allows the plant to keep getting water and food as needed. 

5. Waiting as Your Plant Grows

Perhaps the most challenging part is waiting for the Kratky method to do its magic. Leave the plant somewhere warm (generally room temperature) with good sunlight, or a grow light. As there is no moving water in this method, it is vital to protect your plant from insects and changing temperatures. 

The most common pests found sneaking around these pots are mosquitoes, crickets, grasshoppers, and spiders. To keep these pests minimized, make sure there is no standing water or other damp spots around. This typically isn’t an issue indoors but keep an eye out. Also, it is crucial not to let any rain get into the bucket. This could drown the plant’s roots or adjust the carefully curated pH levels. If able, put a roof, such as a greenhouse, around your system. 

6. Harvesting Your Plants

Harvesting your plants is the exciting part! While you can choose precisely when to harvest, make sure the plant has water at all times. If the water runs out, you can add enough to touch the bottom three to four inches of roots. 

Most people choose to harvest before the first batch of water is completely gone, though. Smaller greens, like baby spinach and arugula, are very nutrient-dense and tender, too. 

7. Rinse & Repeat

There is stagnant water in the Kratky method, so the pots must be sanitized in between growing cycles. If you kept your pots in a greenhouse and there were no signs of pests or bacteria growing, you can do between three to five cycles before having to sanitize. Instead, a good rinse before repeating is all you would need.

If, however, you began to suspect any bacteria or had any issues with growth, it is critical to sanitize the bucket before restarting. To do this, dilute bleach according to the bottle directions and sanitize both the bucket, lid, and net pot. Let them dry completely before beginning again. 

Pros and Cons of the Kratky Method

The Kratky method is a simple way to get started growing plants with hydroponics, but every method comes with advantages and disadvantages. Here are some we have found:

Pros

  • Energy-efficient. No electricity is needed to keep water or air moving.
  • Hands-off. Whether you have a heavy work schedule or want to go on vacation, the plants will continue to grow even if you do not attend to them.
  • Super simple. The Kratky method is an excellent introduction to hydroponics. 

Cons

  • Attracts pests. The stagnant water is hard to resist for many unwanted critters.
  • Only useful on a small scale. Once you have too many buckets going, it can be cumbersome to regularly clean and sanitize them from the stagnant water.
  • Individualized variables to control. Checking and adjusting every single bucket’s pH and nutrients can be time-consuming. 

Now You Can Grow with the Kratky Method

In a few short hours, you can have a garden growing without any soil or upkeep. This is why the ingenious Kratky method has gained so much momentum over the years. This is an excellent project for someone hoping to supplement their grocery bill or start a CSA. 

Hopefully, this beginner’s guide has given you the boost you need to get started. Feel free to experiment with other containers to maximize your plant and leafy green output!

How to Transfer Plants from Soil to Hydroponics


from soil to hydroponics

Although traditional soil gardening will never be left behind us, recent years have shown gardening enthusiasts the endless benefits that come from hydroponics. Hydroponics is also a much more flexible option for growing plants in small spaces – great for the urban gardener! If you want to downsize the footprint of your potted plants, you may want to transfer them to a hydroponics setup.

How do you transfer plants from soil to hydroponics? To transfer your plant from soil to a hydroponics system:

  1. Choose a porous medium.
  2. Choose a sizable container that allows ample sunlight to reach the plant.
  3. Transfer the plant into the new container.
  4. Maintain the hydroponics system.

Transferring your traditional garden to a hydroponics setup can be a bit tricky. There are several elements to consider, one of the most important being nutrition. After you transfer your plants – and protect them from the shock of the transfer! – you must be sure to provide them with the same rich nutrients that they’d absorb from natural soil. Read on to learn how to safely make such a transfer.

1. Choose a Medium

Transferring your plants to hydroponics isn’t as cut-and-dry as it may seem. You don’t just drop your plant in a container of water and hope for the best. When you grow your plants hydroponically, you must provide some sort of medium

The purpose of the medium is to give your plants something to hold onto. This will prevent them from sinking into the water or floating on the surface (which would inhibit its access to the nutrients below). 

Some great media for hydroponics include:

  • Rock-wool
  • Heydite
  • Peat
  • Coco husks
  • Vermiculite

Whatever growing medium you choose should not contain soil in any way, as this will interfere with the productivity of your hydroponics system. Additionally, the medium should not be inclined to decaying quickly – this is also referred to as “inert.” The best media are porous, allowing them to absorb water and oxygen that can be supplied to the root system. 

You are free to use non-porous materials; however, you’ll have to change out the medium often throughout the water cycles. Because there are so many different variations of hydroponics systems, there are no media that are significantly better than the rest – some simply offer more convenience than others. 

2. Choose a Container

Now that you’ve determined the medium, you’ll be using, you need to choose the perfect container for your plant. This is not too complex of a process, but it is one to pay close attention to, as the wrong container can have the following consequences:

  • It can inhibit your plant’s ability to grow healthily
  • It may limit the amount of sunlight your plant is able to absorb
  • It may absorb too much heat and burn the root system

Consider the size of the original container you are transferring your plant from. You’ll need to upsize, but not by too much. If you transfer your plant into a container that is significantly bigger than it, you risk compromising the stability of the plant. Such instability can lead to severe damage. This damage primarily includes root and stem breakage. Give your plant a container that allows it to expand without too much extra space.

You must primarily consider the width of the container when noting its size and not so much the depth. You don’t want a container that is excessive in height, however, it is beneficial to give the roots as much space as possible to grow downward. Additionally, a container that is too wide will dry out much more quickly than one that is appropriately sized.

3. Transfer the Plant

Once you have the perfect growing medium and container set up, you are ready to transfer your plants into their final home. You must take care to protect your plants from breakage during the transfer and watch them closely for symptoms of shock once the transfer is complete. 

Note that shock is not necessarily a bad thing, however, it is something you must watch closely to ensure your plants make a healthy recovery. Follow these guidelines to safely transfer your potted plants to a hydroponics system:

  1. Place the substrate into your chosen container and fill it with water. 
  2. Allow the water to reach room temperature. 
  3. Fill two additional containers, ideally a bucket and watering can, with water and allow that to come to room temperature as well.
  4. Lift the plant at the base of the stem, tipping the container upside down while you do this. This ensures that you will not break the stem or root system by attempting to pull the plant up through the weight of the soil.
  5. Tap the bottom of the pot lightly to loosen the soil until the plant is free and secure in your hands.
  6. Dip the root ball into the water to rinse off most of the soil, being careful not to dip the stem in as well.
  7. Rinse the roots with the watering can to get rid of any clumps or remaining soil. Be sure not to force any soil free if the roots are extensively entangled.
  8. As you place the plant into its new container, carefully spread its roots throughout the medium (at this point, the container should be about 1/3 full of medium). 
  9. Cover the exposed roots by filling the container with the remaining medium.

4. How to Maintain Your Hydroponics System

You must recognize that your plants’ root system will not reach the size that it normally would if it were planted in soil. This is because nutrients are more readily available, so the roots do not have to extend far to locate and absorb them. Most of the energy for growth is instead directed toward the foliage and any fruits and/or flowers it may produce.

When maintaining your hydroponics system, you must pay attention to these six elements:

  • Light: You can provide consistent light by either placing your plants near a window or positioning grow lights above them. Research the exact plants you have, to know the appropriate intensity and duration of light you must provide. Too much light will burn the foliage, however, you must provide enough to support healthy flowering and fruit production.
  • Temperature: Generally, hydroponics systems will do well in room temperature, so 68-77˚F will do just fine.
  • Humidity: Ideal humidity levels for most houseplants, including those grown hydroponically, range from about 50-60%.
  • pH: This is an element that you must check often, as it is extremely important to the health of your plant, directly affecting its ability to absorb and metabolize nutrients. Ideal pH levels are between 5.8 to 6.3.
  • Nutrients: There are special solutions made for hydroponic gardening, typically as a mixture of fertilizer and water – make sure to pick the right one for your plant species, since too much fertilizer can burn the roots of your plant. You must drain, clean, and replace this solution at least 1-2 times monthly depending on your method (Kratky, dwc, etc.).
  • Water: Of course, because this is a hydroponics system, water is even more critical in this circumstance than it is in soil planting. You must ensure that water levels remain suitable to your plants needs, especially as the water will be mixed in with the nutrient solution. 

Although it may seem quite demanding, hydroponics is one of the most low-effort methods of gardening once you have your system set up properly. It is highly rewarding and can be significantly more fruitful than traditional growing methods as your plants will be allowed to expend more energy on producing foliage and fruits rather than an expanding root system.

The 7 Best Fish For Small Aquaponics Systems


fish swimming in an aquaponics tank

Interested in Setting Up a Small Aquaponic System?

There are numerous reasons why someone might want to set up a small aquaponics system of their very own. For example, one person might be interested in having easy access to fresh fish as well as fresh produce. In contrast, another person might be more interested in how such systems can help them live in a more sustainable manner by cutting down on their use of water as well as other inputs. 

Whatever the case, you can’t set up the right aquaponic systems without choosing the right fish species. Luckily, there are many options to choose from. If you’re interested in setting up a small aquaponic system, these are 7 of the best fish species to include:

Bass

large mouth bass

There are several species of bass, which should make it easier to find a species that is best suited for your setup. Generally speaking, bass can survive water temperatures between 55°F to 85°F with a pH of between 7 and 8. However, this fish species is very sensitive to changes in the level of potassium in the water, so  that must be monitored on a regular basis.

On the plus side, bass are very open-minded eaters and don’t need a great deal of protein, which should please those who are concerned about feeding them. Bass are top feeders, which makes it very easy for caretakers to tell if they are overfeeding them. Just check for food particles that have fallen to the bottom of the container.

Catfish

channel catfish

Catfish are a popular choice for both farming and fishing. For proof, look no further than the sheer number of catfish recipes available online, which range from catfish soup served with rice noodles to catfish rolled in cornmeal and fried.

Regardless of why you are interested in catfish, it’s important to note that the term “catfish” actually encompasses more than 3,000 species of fish. Generally speaking, most people choose to farm and fish the bigger catfish species. In particular, those who want to set up an aquaponic system should consider the Channel Catfish, which has a number of characteristics that make it a popular choice for said purpose.

For example, Channel Catfish aren’t very territorial creatures, so they make an excellent choice for people who also want to breed other fish species such as crappies and tilapia. Likewise, catfish are famous (and sometimes infamous) for being adaptable creatures that can survive under a wide range of conditions, though they fare best in warmer water temperatures of about 65°F to 90°F. On top of this, Channel Catfish can also grow at a rapid pace. It’s not uncommon to see members of this species hit three pounds within 12 months time.

Of course, Channel Catfish have some downsides as well. Catfish aren’t scaly creatures but instead have very sensitive skin, which means you shouldn’t handle them unless it’s absolutely necessary. Besides this, feeding them the right amount of food can require some serious effort as well. In most cases, the recommendation is 2.5 percent of their body weight in feed, which has to be based on an eye estimate because of their aforementioned sensitivity. However, there are some people who feed their catfish worms, insects, and aquaponic plants for a more balanced diet.

Crappie

black crappie

Crappie are freshwater fish that hail from North America. In total, there are two crappie species: The White Crappie and the Black Crappie. Both are very similar in size, shape, and even their habits. However, it’s still possible to distinguish between the two species using a number of visual characteristics, such as how Black Crappie have black spots.

In any case, crappie are hardy fish, meaning they offer interested individuals some room for error. They prefer water temperatures that range from 70°F to 75°F. However, crappie can survive water temperatures as low as 55°F and as high as 80°F, though such conditions will have a detrimental impact on their performance. Besides this, water pH should be between 7 and 7.5 for the best results.

Unfortunately, crappies can bring some serious complications with them. For instance, crappies can start breeding at the age of one, so a lack of oversight can result in a lot more crappies than what you may be prepared to handle. Furthermore, it’s typically a bad idea to mix crappies with other fish because they are very spirited creatures that will defend themselves, their eggs, and even their young against perceived threats.

Even though crappies can get rather aggressive, they don’t fare well against bigger fish with carnivorous appetites, and often lose such fights. One of the biggest issues with crappies is they are picky eaters with a notable fondness for minnows, which can be problematic for people who want (or need) to keep feeding costs low.

Jade Perch

Jade Perch

Jade perch are endemic to Australia, but their hardiness have made them a popular choice for aquaponic systems in other countries as well. In short, Jade Perch can handle water temperatures that range from 60°F to 80°F, though they tend to prefer water temperatures on the higher end of that range. The species can also handle a pH of 6.5 to 8.5. These two characteristics make Jade Perch a safe choice for beginners concerned about making mistakes.

Other than their hardiness, Jade Perch have other strengths that are even more attractive for aquaponic systems. They are omnivorous, which means they can be fed on vegetation rather than restricted to a meat-based diet. Second, Jade Perch grow fast. They can hit 1 pound within 12 months, thus making them quickly ready for the plate. They also contain a lot of fatty acids, which make them a solid choice for people watching their nutritional intake.

Having said that, Jade Perch can be a bit too hardy and a bit too fast. Their numbers can get out of hand when people aren’t paying attention. However, the biggest issue is that while finding Jade Perch can be simple outside of Australia, getting the fish in some countries can be a bit more complicated and time-consuming.

Murray Cod

murray cod

Many people are most familiar with oceanic species of cod, such as the Atlantic Cod and the Pacific Cod. However, there are also species of cod that can be farmed in small aquaponic systems, such as Murray Cod.

On the whole, Murray Cod is another fish that can handle a wide range of conditions. They can survive in water temperatures of 46°F to 72°F. Furthermore, they can handle water with a pH of 7 to 8, which isn’t as good as some of the other fish species but is still not too bad. However, keep in mind that Murray Cod are freshwater fish rather than saltwater fish like their better-known cousins.

That said, Murray Cod are carnivores. So while they can share a living space with other species, they will start eating their neighbors if they get too big. Unfortunately, Murray Cod grow at a rapid pace, which produces another problem: They can quickly outgrow their containers. On top of that, Murray Cod can be susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections when packed together in close confines.

Tilapia

Tilapia

There is a reason Tilapia is seen as the fish for beginners when it comes to aquaponics systems. For starters, while they do their best in water between 82°F and 86°F, they are perfectly capable of surviving a much wider range of water temperatures.

They are also capable of the same when it comes to water pH levels. They can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 9. Better still, Tilapia are also a great choice for those concerned about food production efficiency, seeing as how Tilapia tend to hit 1 pound in weight in only 6 to 8 months time.

The main problem with Tilapia is that they are fast breeders, which means their numbers can explode under optimal growing conditions.

Furthermore, while they are hardy, they aren’t actually invincible. As a result, you’ll have to avoid letting their water get too cold. Water below 50°F will kill Tilapia.

Walleye

walleye

Walleye aren’t particularly interesting or good-looking fish. However, those characteristics aren’t necessarily bad for people who prize low maintenance when it comes to their aquaponic systems. Walleye can handle water temperatures of 68°F to 76°F and a pH of 6.5 to 8. Better still, Walleye are compatible with a wide range of plants, which should be welcome news for those who want to grow a variety of vegetables.

Naturally, Walleye come with some potential complications as well. For one, they don’t do so well with commercial food, so you’ll need to keep bait fish, prawns, and the like on hand. Two, a full-grown Walleye can weigh 20 pounds, though the odds of that happening in a fish tank aren’t very high. Still, they are big fish that call for big containers. Some people solve this problem by opting for keeping just a single Walleye in their aquaponic setup at all times.

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