Hydroponics for beginners! Start with Kratky in 2020
Are you interested in getting into hydroponics but do not know how? Let me help you!
I’m pretty sure by now you’ve read article after article about the basics of hydroponics. To put it simply, it’s the art of gardening without soil. Though it’s far different from traditional growing, you have to remember that hydroponics shouldn’t be difficult.
You see, one of the tricks to ensuring success in hydroponics gardening lies in the system that you choose. Don’t fret, there are only seven systems you can choose from. And out of these seven, the Kratky Method is what I would highly recommend for beginning growers.
No worries, because I’ll explain to you in detail how the Kratky Method works and why I highly recommend it to beginners. I also spilled my favorite tools and products you can buy to jumpstart your Kratky Hydroponics System. So what are you waiting for? Read on!
You may also check my video where I talked about the basics of the Kratky System and why I like it.
Table of Contents
History of Kratky Hydroponics Method
How Kratky Hydroponics Method Works
I am not kidding when I say Kratky Method is the simplest hydroponics system ever. Don’t believe me yet?
It works by placing a plant in a container and allowing the roots to grow into the solution. This container can be anything from a used mason jar to a grow tray. Luckily for you, I shared my favorite containers in this article. So, I suggest you continue reading.
From there, the roots will continue to grow down into the nutrients as the water level goes down. This method allows the roots to absorb the oxygen they need.
When your container runs out of water, this means the plants have reached the end of their growth phase. If not, you can always fill up the container with water and nutrient solution, and allow plants to continue to their growth phase.
If you’re interested in knowing more information as well as my experience with the Kratky Method, then I suggest you check my video below.
Why is the Kratky Method Better?
Easy Set-up and Inexpensive
Low Maintenance
Most Flexible System
Foolproof
All other systems rely on electricity in some form. This means if the electricity fails, your system also fails. Air bubblers, circulating pumps, tubing, and valves can all lose power or clog up. As soon as your plants no longer receive water and oxygen, they will be unrecoverable within a few hours. With Kratky Method, you don’t have to worry about these.
Pros
- Requires little to no care; perfect for hobbyists or beginning growers
- Minimal cost
- Extremely easy to set up
- Foolproof
Con
- Might not be ideal for large-scale growing
Kratky Method:
Most Reliable Hydroponics System for Beginners
Since the Kratky method is so flexible and foolproof, I recommend this method over all other types of hydroponics systems. If you want to get the job done most effectively, Kratky is the method you should choose.
Luckily for you, I made a video where I ranked the different systems based on the level of difficulty. I bet you know now the best one on my list. Otherwise, I suggest you check it below!
DIY Hydroponics Setup
Now, here comes the fun part! Let me share with you the things you need to jumpstart your Kratky Hydroponics System journey.
No worries because the items that I am sharing with you are common for any hydroponics system setup. Hence, if you decided to later upgrade or try other systems, it would be much easier and convenient.
1.5-inch Rockwool plugs:
This is the inorganic grow medium that hydroponics sit in. You should have these regardless of what starter kit you use. I find that this is the best for beginners because you can start plants from seed on it. One caveat, though, is you should be careful not to breathe in the fibers because they can be hazardous in large amounts.
2-inch net pots:
You can indeed make your net cups. But why the need to buy one? For one, these net pots are reusable thus helping you save natural resources, protect the environment, and save money. As if that’s not enough, they’re durable and will last you a long time with many uses.
Three-part quart General hydroponics solution
Maxigro powder version
Seeds
Everything’s useless without the seeds so don’t forget to stock up on your favorites!
You should start with some delicious herbs and leafy greens. They are quick-growing crops that you can start eating as early as one month!
DIY Containers for Hydroponics
Hydroponic Starter Kits
Not a big fan of DIY? No worries, you can always opt for a grow box. This makes it easier to grow plants and vegetables in a small space since everything you need is included in the package.
HydroFarm GCSB Salad Box
This grow box is perfect for beginning growers who want to transition from indoor to outdoor plants. It’s so easy to set up. You’ll love that this comes with almost everything you need to start growing.
I kid you not. The grow box includes one reservoir tray, one top plate lid with eight plant sites, a top-off bottle and cap, eight net cups, eight root wraps, and six drain plugs. As if that’s not enough, you also get a 50-gram packet of general-purpose nutrients.
I’m pretty sure you know by now the importance of nutrients to hydroponics gardening. So here’s a tip for you! To help you save money, I suggest you refrain from adding nutrients when germinating seeds. This is because seeds have everything they need to grow from seed to seedling. I would add the nutrients once the plants have germinated and are a week or two old.
With this grow box, I can guarantee you will love how easy hydroponics is. I bet you will quickly fill the containers up with plants.
Pros
- Comes with almost everything you need
- Ideal for growing a small, soil-free garden of salad greens and other plants
Con
- If you plan to use the root wrap, you have to germinate the seeds in potting soil or an inorganic growing medium first.
Ivation Herb Indoor Garden
Here’s the thing. It’s difficult to ensure that our plant gets all the light that it needs. But thanks to growing boxes like the Ivation Indoor Gardening, you can plant anywhere at home!
This comes with everything you need to start except seeds. I recommend you start with planting lettuce, buttercrunch, or romaine. Or better yet, you can also buy flowers or any decorative plant.
Here comes my personal favorite. The Ivation herb garden kit also comes with a grow light. If you’re wondering, the grow light features a white led light, which is the best type of grow light you can purchase. White LED Lights have a full-spectrum light to promote full and healthy plants. The light is also adjustable and automatically cycles on and off to simulate the sun.
Did I mention that it’s reasonably priced, too? Now, that’s such a steal!
Pros
- Comes with almost everything you need
- Has a grow light
- Ideal for growing a small, soil-free garden of salad greens and other plants
Con
- Plants grown in these types of pods do not like well water, spring water, or very hard water. Make sure to use only soft/ RO water to ensure the seeds germinate quickly and healthy.
My Indoor Hydroponics Setup
Place/Area
Investment
Capacity
If I were to use my system at full capacity, I can grow up to 512 plants in a 4’ by 2’ by 7’ high space which is incredible!
Grow Shelves
Trays
Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Trays:
These are great because you can use them for germination, microgreens, or hydroponics.
1020 Net Pot Trays:
No need to buy separate net pots because Bootstrap Farmer has made one specifically for their 1020 trays.
6-Mil Mylar Film Roll:
These are essential to cover trays and prevent light leaks. It can also be used to prevent algae from growing. The product claims to be wear-resistant, waterproof, anti-corrosion, anti-crease, and easy to clean!
Organic Expanded Clay Pebbles:
These natural, porous, and reusable clay pellets are just what you need to fix issues of overwatering. You’ll also love that it has neutral pH and a pretty decent water-holding capacity.
Here’s a little treat for you. I also made a video where I showed steps on how to set up trays for Kratky. So, you better check it out!
