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It’s exciting and overwhelming when you start your journey into hydroponics farming. There are so many types of hydroponics systems that it can be difficult to decide which one to use, especially if you’re new to soil free agriculture. If you are a hobbyist or a small scale farm you must know the different hydroponic systems and how they work so that you can choose the best one for your space and goals. In this beginner hydroponics guide we will guide you through the process of Choosing hydroponic systems and give you some key tips when you begin your hydroponic setup.

Why Choose Hydroponics for Farming?

There are many advantages of hydroponics, especially for people who don’t have much space, or for those whose soil is poor. Some of the key benefits include:

• Faster Growth: Hydroponic system allows the delivery of nutrients directly to the roots and plants grow faster.
• Space Efficiency: Hydroponics is perfect for small spaces (apartments, city).
• Water Conservation: Since hydroponic systems use far less water than traditional farming methods, they are more sustainable.
• Fewer Pests and Diseases: Without soil the soil borne diseases or pests don’t exist.

If you are looking to start hydroponics farming, hydroponics has so many benefits that it is an attractive choice, but it is important to choose the right system so as to maximize the success.

Types of Hydroponic Systems

Chosing the right hydroponics system starts with knowing what hydroponics system is best for you. Below are some of the most common hydroponic setups:

1. Deep Water Culture (DWC)

The plant roots are submerged in nutrient rich water in Deep Water Culture (DWC), and the air pump provides the plant roots with oxygen. This is the perfect system to grow leafy greens like lettuce and herbs.

• Pros: Good for fast growing plants, good use of water and easy to set up.
• Cons: It can be difficult to manage and water temperature must be closely controlled for larger plants.

2. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

NFT is a thin film of nutrient rich water that runs over the roots of plants, oxygenating the plants continuously to allow them to absorb the nutrients they need.

• Pros: Small, fast growing plants such as herbs and lettuce are great for this type.
• Cons: Not good for large, heavy plants, and requires a constant power supply to keep the water flowing.

3. Aeroponics

In aeroponics, plant roots are suspended in the air and misted with nutrient rich water. This system has excellent root oxygenation.

• Pros: Perfect for a wide range of plants, very water efficient.
• Cons: Setting it up may be complex and you may require some more knowledge of hydroponics.

4. Wick System

The wick system is one of the simplest and least expensive hydroponic setups you can find. It draws the nutrient solution into the growing medium through a wick and the plant roots can then absorb it there.

• Pros: Simple and low cost, perfect for beginners.
• Cons: Without proper monitoring it can dry out very quickly and it is not ideal for larger plants.

5. Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain)

In the ebb and flow system, nutrient solution is flooded into a grow tray and drained. It’s repeated many times a day.

• Pros: Good for large plants and many crops.
• Cons: A more complex setup and regular monitoring of water levels are required.

Best Hydroponic Systems for Beginners

The best hydroponic systems for beginners are the simplest and easiest to maintain hydroponic systems. Here are a few systems ideal for newcomers:

1. Wick System

Wick system is perfect for hydroponic beginners because it is cheap and easy. It is easy to set up, minimal maintenance and good for small scale gardening.

2. Deep Water Culture (DWC)

If you are a beginner and want to grow larger plants such as tomatoes or peppers, then DWC is a good choice. Just a simple setup, great oxygenation for roots and ideal for fast growing crops.

3. Kratt’s Aquaponic System

If you’re looking for a sustainable farming option, a Kratt’s Aquaponic System is also a good starter system that combines hydroponics and aquaculture. The plants grow in the water and feed on the nutrients produced by the fish, making a self sustaining ecosystem.

Hydroponics Setup Tips for Beginners

Starting hydroponics farming isn’t as easy as picking a system. Here are a few key hydroponics setup tips to ensure success:

1. Choose the Right Location

Place your hydroponic system in a place with enough space and proper lighting. If you have indoor systems you may need grow lights to ensure your plants are getting enough light for photosynthesis.

2. Watch Nutrient and pH Levels.

Measure your water’s nutrient concentration and pH levels. Good for plants is nutrient rich solutions, but too much or too little will kill them.

3. Start with Easy to Grow Plants

For a beginner, pick plants that are well known to do well in hydroponic systems, such as leafy greens (lettuce, spinach), herbs (basil, mint), and small vegetables (tomatoes, peppers).

4. Use Quality Materials

Invest in quality growing mediums, nutrient solutions, and equipment to prolong the life and efficiency of your hydroponic system. Buy cheap, low quality stuff that may cause problems later.

5. Regular Maintenance

Daily check your system to watch the water levels, nutrient solution & health of the plants. The main way to avoid system failures is through preventative maintenance.

Conclusion: Starting Hydroponics Farming Made Easy

The choice of the right hydroponic system is a very important decision to take when you begin your hydroponics farming journey. Once you know the different types of hydroponics, which hydroponic systems are best for beginners, and hydroponics setup tips, you’ll be off to a great start with hydroponics success. Hydroponics is a great way to grow plants, but with some patience, the right tools, and a little planning, you can have a lot of fun and be very sustainable growing your own vegetables (tomatoes, peppers).