Getting Started with Hydroponics

Hydroponic growing is easier than you think! Here you'll learn the basics step by step – perfect for beginners who want to start growing clean, fast and sustainable.

Shop systems
A view of several plastic stands of hydroponic grown vegetables.

What is Hydroponic Growing?

Hydroponic growing means you grow plants completely without soil. Instead, plants get all their nutrition through a water solution that contains exactly the minerals and substances they need to grow.

The roots can either hang directly in the nutrient solution or be supported by an inert substrate like clay pebbles, rockwool or coconut fiber. This gives plants perfect conditions – more oxygen, more nutrition and faster growth.

Benefits of Hydroponics

Up to 90% Less Water

Water circulates in the system instead of running off

50% Faster Growth

Plants get perfectly balanced nutrition directly at the roots

Grow Year Round

Indoor growing independent of season and weather

No Soil-Borne Diseases

Clean and controlled without pests from soil

Common System Types for Beginners

There are different types of hydroponic systems – here are the easiest to start with

Deep Water Culture (DWC)

Roots hang directly in oxygenated nutrient solution. Simple, efficient and perfect for lettuce and herbs.

Best for beginners

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

A thin layer of nutrient solution flows past the roots in sloping tubes. Efficient for leafy greens.

Space-saving

Ebb and Flow

Nutrient solution is pumped up and then flows back. Works for most plants and is easy to scale up.

Versatile

Step by Step: How to Get Started

1

Choose Your System

Start simple with a DWC system or a ready-made kit from SmoothCrops. Our complete kits contain everything you need to get started right away.

2

Prepare the Nutrient Solution

Mix water with hydroponic nutrients according to instructions. Measure pH (should be 5.5-6.5) and EC. Use SmoothCrops ready-made nutrient solutions for easiest results.

3

Plant Your Crops

Start with simple plants like lettuce, basil or spinach. Place seedlings in net pots with clay pebbles or other substrate and place in the system.

4

Monitor and Adjust

Check pH and EC daily the first few weeks. Top up water when the level drops. Change nutrient solution every 2 weeks. Add lighting if you grow indoors.

5

Harvest and Enjoy!

After 4-6 weeks you can start harvesting your first leaves and herbs. Harvest from the outside so the plant can continue growing from the center.

Ready to Start?

Our complete kits make it easy to get started with hydroponics right away

Shop systems now