A Guide To Indoor Growing With Hydroponics

When it comes to Hydroponics and the use of them as an indoor growing tool, it can be hard to decipher most of the information that is out there. This is also due to the variety of systems and techniques that are available. In this blog however, MEGAPot have put together a guide to indoor growing with hydroponics to simplify the process. 

What Are Hydroponics?

To help us in our guide to indoor growing with hydroponics is to begin with what are they. Hydroponics and its process is very straightforward and simple. It is simply the method of growing plants without soil. And instead using a variety of nutrient solutions in order to help them growl. When it comes to hydroponics, they are particularly good for those looking to grow indoors. This is due to a variety of reasons including:-

• Faster growth and also growth all year round 
• Saves Space
• Saves on vast amounts of water usage 
• Less likely to contract diseases and pests

Using hydroponics has become increasingly popular, and at MEGAPot we have seen a vast increase in our services.

What System Do I Choose?

Due to the increase in demand and also popularity of hydroponics, there has been a development of a variety of systems that you can take advantage of. The main difference between many will be how they deliver the water, oxygen and nutrients to the plants you are growing. Some of the various systems you can use include:-

• Deep Water Culture or DWC
• Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain)
• Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
• Wicking 
• Dripper 
• Aeroponic

Finding The Right Kit

After doing some research, now is the time to look at what sort of kit you are going to need. Most kits will be generic, and will mostly be dictated by the amount of money you are willing to spend. However, that being said, you need to ensure that you have the basics covered at least. This will include the following:-

• Basic growing room essentials 
• Grow Tents 
• Lighting 
• Extraction Fans
• Ballasts
• Reflectors

The Indoor Growing Process

Propagation is key when it comes to actually conducting the growing process. The right techniques at this stage can mean all the difference throughout. Seeds can be planted directly into the medium in which you will be growing in. 

When it comes to choosing a propagator you need to consider how well and secure it is. The plastic cover works as a humidity dome. Both heated and unheated propagators are avaibvale which means regardless of the temperatures you can ensure you have what you need.

Things To Check Whilst Growing

When it comes to growing anything, there are certain things and elements that you need to keep an eye on. Ultimately to ensure that your plants get exactly what they need and require. This includes checking the pH of your nutrient feed is at its optimum level, as well as the EC that tells you the quantity of nutrients available. Other things to consider include:-

Deficiencies 

Checking plants regularly will allow you to see and note any deficiencies that may be apparent. The signs of deficiency are usually clear, and even those who are new to the world of growing will be able to see them. Deficiencies can have a profound effect on the growth and life span of your crops. Things to look out for include:-

• Discoloured leaves 
• Leaves curling at the tips 
• Leaves turning brown then dying off 
• Weaskness in the stems 

When it comes to checking deficencies have a look at the watering system and its overall workings. Sometimes to solve these issues may just be checking there is enough water and nutrients being passed on.

Pests & Diseases

Pests and diseases are less common when grown hydroponically due to the zero soil content. As well as most of the time this being grown inside without the impact of the outside elements. When it comes to looking at pests you need to firstly identify what you are looking for. Each plant will have a different pest that is particularly attracted.

It does go without saying however that prevention is better than cure, so do not ignore it just because you are growing indoors and feel you have full control over the elements. Steps you can take to avoid problems when growing indoors include:-

• Keep your growing room clean and sanitise all surfaces 
• Use products that counter pests and diseases
• Give your grow room equipment a clean when necessary.

To Conclude

When it comes to indoor growing with a hydroponic system you need to do your research. The set up of a home system is very straightforward, however knowing how to grow and ensure your plants are at the right levels are also very important for success. At MEGAPot we ensure that our customers have all the materials and products that they need. This is also why we put together a guide to indoor growing with hydroponics If you would like to know more about us, and what we do then please do Contact Us.