Dashboard

A light-proof container that holds your nutrient solution. Its size depends on your system and number of plants. Light-proofing is critical to prevent algae growth. Crucially, ensure it is made of food-grade, BPA-free plastic (like HDPE #2) to prevent leaching of harmful chemicals and microplastics into your water.

A submersible pump is the heart of any active system (like Drip, NFT, Ebb & Flow). It is placed in the reservoir to circulate water through tubing to your plants. Ensure the pump's GPH (gallons per hour) rating is sufficient for your system's size and lift height.

Systems like NFT or Drip often require a physical structure to hold the channels (gullies) or containers at the correct angle for gravity-fed water flow. This can be built from PVC pipes, wood, or metal framing.

These are your most critical monitoring tools. A pH meter measures acidity/alkalinity, while an EC/TDS meter measures nutrient strength. Digital meters are highly recommended for accuracy. They are essential for diagnosing issues and keeping your plants healthy.

Critical for DWC and other systems needing extra oxygen. The pump sits outside the reservoir and pushes air through tubing to air stones inside, which create bubbles to oxygenate the water and prevent root rot.

Digital or mechanical timers are essential for automating your system. They are used to control light cycles for indoor grows and to regulate the on/off cycles for the water pump in Ebb & Flow or Drip systems.

A combination device that measures both air temperature and relative humidity. Place it near your plants at canopy level to get an accurate reading of the climate they are experiencing.

Net pots are mesh containers that hold your plants and growing medium (like clay pebbles). The latticed design allows roots to grow out and down into the nutrient solution. Common sizes are 2, 3, and 6 inches (5, 7.5, 15cm).

Vining and top-heavy plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers require physical support to grow properly and support the weight of their fruit. Use a trellis net, stakes, or string and clips to guide their growth upwards.

Used for harvesting leaves, pruning suckers, and trimming roots. Keep them clean and sharp to prevent damaging your plants and spreading disease.

Essential for accurately measuring and mixing concentrated liquid nutrients before adding them to your main reservoir. Using dedicated tools for your hydroponic setup prevents contamination.

A fabric tent with a reflective interior that creates a self-contained, controllable environment for your indoor garden. It simplifies control over light, temperature, and humidity, and helps contain mess and pests.

Crucial for any grow tent or closed room. An exhaust fan removes hot, stale air and brings in fresh air rich in CO2, which is essential for photosynthesis. The fan's CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating should be matched to your space.

Small oscillating fans placed inside the grow space. They strengthen plant stems by mimicking a gentle breeze, prevent hot spots from forming under lights, and reduce the risk of mold or mildew by keeping air moving.

Tools to manage the relative humidity (RH). Seedlings and young plants prefer higher humidity (60-70%), while flowering plants require lower humidity (40-50%) to prevent bud rot. A hygrometer will tell you which you need.