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Homemade Hydroponic System

Discover the simple steps to grow plants year-round using a soil-less hydroponic system with this user-friendly guide.

 

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Important Note: Prior to using any of the products mentioned, it is highly recommended to thoroughly read and understand all safety precautions associated with each product. It is also strongly advised to perform a patch test before proceeding with usage.

Please be advised that this guide is intended for informational purposes only and APC Pure cannot accept any responsibility for the outcome of any usage based on this guide.

 

Here are the materials you'll need:

 

Step 1: Choose an enclosed structure such as a greenhouse, basement, or outdoor patio/deck to set up your hydroponic system. Ensure the floor is level for proper water and nutrient distribution. If placing the system outdoors, protect it from the elements with a wind barrier and regularly check the water levels. During cold temperatures, bring the system indoors.

Step 2: The system consists of six growing tubes made of 6″ PVC pipes, a PVC stand and trellis, a 50-gallon nutrient tank, a pump, and a manifold. Each growing tube has a drainpipe leading back to the tank. The manifold sits atop the pipes and supplies pressurised water to the tubes. To deliver nutrients to the plants, water is pushed through a square PVC manifold, which then sprays small plastic tubes inside each growing tube. These nutrient tubes have small holes between each plant site, providing both nutrients and oxygen through water jets and air bubbles.

Step 3: Fill the 50-gallon tank with water and add the recommended amount of nutrients as indicated by the fertiliser label. Turn on the pump and let the system run for approximately 30 minutes to ensure proper mixing of nutrients.

Step 4: Prepare your plants by removing the soil from their roots. Submerge the root ball in lukewarm to cool water in a bucket, avoiding extreme temperatures that could shock the plants. Gently separate the roots by hand to remove any remaining soil, as it may clog the nutrient tubes. Pull as many roots as possible through the bottom of the planting cup and secure the plant in place using expanded clay pebbles.

Step 5: To maximise space, utilise plant clips and string to tie the plants to the trellis. This will also provide support for vertical growth.

Step 6: Check water levels daily and monitor pH and nutrient levels every few days. As the pump operates continuously, ensure the tank does not run dry to prevent damage to the pump. Regularly observe plant growth and secure plant stalks by tying or clipping them every few days.

Step 7: Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests and diseases, such as insect pests, chewed leaves, or foliar diseases. Due to the close proximity of plants in hydroponic systems, one diseased plant can quickly infect others.

Step 8: Provide essential nutrients to support plant growth in your hydroponic system. Here is a list of nutrients commonly used in hydroponics:

Nitrogen

Phosphorus

Potassium

Calcium

Sulphur

Iron

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