Grow lights: Full-spectrum LEDs are best. You’ll need around 30-40 watts per square foot for fruiting plants. pH meter: Keeps the solution in the optimal range (5.5-6.5 for most plants). Nutrient mix: Usually comes as liquid concentrates (macro + micro nutrients). Popular brands include General Hydroponics, FoxFarm, and Advanced Nutrients. Growing medium: Rockwool cubes, perlite, clay pellets, or coco coir—all are inert (no nutrients). Water: Filtered or distilled water is best; tap water can contain minerals or chlorine that interfere. Environment: Temperatures around 65-75°F and humidity around 50-70% are ideal for most crops. REQUIREMENTS FOR HYDROPONIC GARDENING
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SYSTEM FOR YOU
The right system for your home depends on your goals, space, budget, and time investment.
If your primary goal is:
Herbs/lettuce: DWCulture or Wick systems are low-cost and low-maintenance. Compact countertop garden: DWC or NFT kits offer moderate cost and very low maintenance Mixed veggies, tomatoes: Ebb & Flow or Drip systems are best, although they bring medium- high set-up costs and a medium level of maintenance. High-yield tech setup: Aeroponics with high associated cost and maintenance. No electricity setup: Wick, which requires very low cost and low maintenance.
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