Hydroponics is a fun way to garden if you have limited space; it’s also a great way to start supplying your pantry with fresh vegetables. One thing might stop you from growing your own vegetables are the cost. Hydroponic kits can be expensive and when you are on a budget this can turn you off trying your hand at this method of gardening.

However it is possible to make homemade hydroponic kits. There are several types of hydroponics system however the best type to adopt as your homemade hydroponic solution is the ebb and flow type. This is the easiest and cheapest to set up on your own.

Basic Equipment

You will need some very basic equipment to start your homemade hydroponic solution. You can buy cheap storage totes, you will need two. An aquarium air and water pump is also needed. As well as some plastic tubing, a timer, and one set of flood and drain fittings. You should also have a suitable place for your plants to grow.

One of the totes will function as the nutrient reservoir; this tote will need to be of a darker color. If the other tote cannot be supported by the reservoir then you will need some support structure such as a table to complete your homemade hydroponic solution.

Putting It Together

In one of the totes install the fill and drain fittings. This is the ebb and flow tray, place on top of the support structure of your homemade hydroponic solution if you are using one. Next place the reservoir under the support structure. It needs to be positioned in a way so that the overflow drain from the first tote can flow into it.

Install the pump in the reservoir and then connect it to the fill from the above tote. You will need the flexible tubing for this part of the homemade hydroponic solution. Next connect the pump to the timer, and be sure that the overflow drain is able to drain back into the reservoir.

You have now successfully built your own homemade hydroponic solution. Fill the reservoir with necessary nutrients and put your plants in. it is important to use the right type of plastic containers for your reservoir and flow tray.

The best kind are dark colored and will not allow light to penetrate the containers. Many things can be used for this purpose; you may not even have to buy anything for this part of your homemade hydroponic solution.