Hydroponics is a topic we're emailed about alot. Like, alot alot. How to set up, what fertiliser to use, and what it actually means. Hopefully this blog covers a few of those pressing questions.

So, what is hydroponics? This innovative method not only simplifies plant care but also unlocks the full potential of your green spaces, no matter how small they are.  

Whether you’re looking to grow hardy indoor plants or you’re tempted to try herbs or vegetables, hydroponics can revolutionize the way you care for greenery in your home.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from how hydroponics works to practical steps for setting up your first system.  

What Is Hydroponics and Why Choose It?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plant roots are suspended in water enriched with nutrient solutions, which provide everything they need to thrive.

But why hydroponics? Here are a few compelling reasons:

Environmentally Friendly: This method uses 90% less water than traditional soil-based gardening. Water is recirculated, making it an efficient and sustainable option for environmentally conscious plant lovers.
Higher Yields: Plants grow 30%-50% faster in a hydroponic system, as they have direct access to nutrients and ideal growing conditions.
Requires Less Space: Hydroponic setups are compact, making them perfect for urban dwellers or anyone short on outdoor space.

Passive vs Active Hydroponics Systems

When considering hydroponics, you’ll come across two main types of systems:

Passive Systems rely on capillary action, where plant roots draw up water and nutrients passively without the need for pumps or additional equipment. These systems are simple, cost-effective, and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for beginners or those just starting with hydroponics. They work well for small-scale setups and are perfect for growing herbs or leafy greens.  

Active Systems use pumps, aerators, or other devices to actively circulate water, nutrients, and oxygen to the plants. These systems are more complex but offer significant advantages, such as faster plant growth and higher yields. They are ideal for experienced growers or those ready to scale up their hydroponic efforts. Active systems are versatile and can support a wide variety of crops, including fruiting plants like tomatoes or peppers.

Not sure which to choose? For most beginner indoor gardeners focusing on plants like pothos, ferns, or peace lilies, a passive system offers ease without missing out on lush greenery.

Why Hydroponics Is Popular Among Indoor Plant Enthusiasts

Hydro is such a popular choice for indoor plant addicts as it allows urban gardeners to maintain a thriving indoor jungle without worrying about potting media or a messy cleanup.

Many popular indoor plants, like devils’ ivy (pothos), philodendrons, or monsteras, adapt incredibly well to hydroponic methods and look stunning in clear glass vessels filled with water. With fewer pests involved compared to soil gardening, plant care becomes significantly easier.

Hydroponics introduces a modern edge to plant styling when paired with minimalist or transparent planters.  

Setting Up Your First Hydroponic System

Starting your hydroponics venture doesn’t have to be daunting. I've outlined a few key steps to establish your first system easily:

Choose a System

 For beginners, passive hydroponics setups work beautifully. Options like mason jars, plastic containers, or vertical hydroponic towers are widely used.  

Select a Location  

Find a spot near a natural light source or prepare to add grow lights if sunlight is limited.  

Prepare Your Plants  

Carefully rinse the soil from your plant’s roots before placing it into the hydroponic system. Clear roots give the plant a clean slate in its new environment.  

Add a Medium  

If needed, stabilise your plants with a growing medium like perlite, clay pellets, or even small pebbles.  

Maintain Water Levels  

Use purified or filtered water mixed with nutrients like liquid plant food (try Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food, which is perfect for hydroponics).  

Essential Nutrients and Lighting for Growth

To thrive in a hydroponic setup, your plants will need:

Nutrients  

A quality liquid plant nutrient mix, like our Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food, ensures your plants get an optimal blend of nutrients. For larger systems or vegetable growing, consider nutrient solutions rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals.  

Lighting  

Plants need light for photosynthesis. Position your system near indirect sunlight or supplement with LED grow lights to ensure your plants’ health.  

Common Challenges (and How to Solve Them)

Hydroponics may look like magic, but even the best systems require some troubleshooting. Here are a few common challenges and how to overcome them:

Pest Control

 While soil-borne pests are less common, algae can appear in water-based systems. Use opaque containers to block light and clean the system regularly.  

pH Balance

The ideal pH for hydroponic systems ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. Use a pH meter for monitoring and adjust with pH-increasing or decreasing solutions as needed.  

Root Health  

To avoid root rot, ensure your system has proper aeration (especially for active systems) and monitor nutrient levels carefully.  

Best Plants for Hydroponics

Not all plants are ideal for a hydroponic system. To set yourself up for success, start with these easy-to-grow options:

Indoor Plants

Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Hardy and forgiving, pothos thrive in water and add to indoor aesthetics.  

Philodendrons: These low-maintenance plants are a perfect match for beginner hydroponic setups.  

Spider Plants: Easy to propagate and quick-growing, these make an excellent addition to any hydroponic garden.  

Herbs and Vegetables  

Looking to expand beyond houseplants? Add these to your hydroponic system:
Basil, Mint, and Oregano  
Lettuce and Spinach  
Cherry Tomatoes  

Start Your Hydroponic Journey Today

Hydroponics makes thriving indoor plants achievable for all, even those with limited space or time. Plus, it’s a sustainable and efficient way to enjoy vibrant greenery or even fresh herbs and vegetables at home.  

If you’re ready to take the plunge, start small with a simple passive hydroponic system and a couple of pothos plants. And don’t forget to boost their growth with Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food, a must-have for every hydrophonic enthusiast!