Setting up an hydroponic tower is easier than it might seem. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to growing fresh produce right at home. Follow this guide to get started and enjoy the benefits of sustainable, soil-free gardening.
What You’ll Need:
- Your hydroponic tower system (such as the Urban Vert Garden Tower)
- Nutrient solution
- pH down (recommended for stabilizing pH in the range of 5.5-6.5)
- Seedlings or seeds (and a seed-starting kit, if applicable)
- LED grow lights (optional, for indoor growing)
- pH meter and pH adjustment kit (optional but recommended for optimal nutrient absorption)
Step 1: Choose Your Location
Your hydroponic tower can be placed indoors or outdoors, as long as it receives adequate light. For indoor setups, make sure there’s enough space and consider adding LED grow lights if natural light is limited. For outdoor setups, choose a location with plenty of sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours per day.
Step 2: Attach and Assemble the Tower
Begin assembling the tower as per the instruction provided.
- Securely attach each stackable section onto the reservoir base.
- Ensure each level clicks into place or is tightly secured.
- Double-check that the system is level to allow water to flow evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Reservoir and Pump
The reservoir is the base of your hydroponic tower and stores the nutrient-rich water solution. Here’s how to get it ready:
- Fill the reservoir with water up to the recommended level.
- Add the nutrient solution A & B according to the instruction on the bottles
- Stir the solution for a few minutes to ensure even distribution.
- Use a pH meter to check the solution’s pH. Adjust as needed to keep it between 5.5 and 6.5, which is ideal for most plants.
Step 4: Add Seedlings to the Tower
Now it’s time to add your plants:
- If you’re starting from seeds, germinate them in a seed-starting kit or moist rockwool cubes until they sprout and grow small roots.
- Once your seedlings are ready, place them in the net cups and individual slots on each level of the tower.
- Arrange plants with similar growth rates and light requirements near each other for easy maintenance and a balanced system.
Step 5: Set Up the Pump and Timer
Your hydroponic tower’s smart pump circulates the nutrient solution, ensuring the roots receive nutrients rich water:
- Connect the smart pump to an electrical outlet. It will automatically turn on and run for 5 mins every 15 mins interval.
- Test the pump to make sure the water drips over the roots properly.
Step 6: Monitor Your Plants
Check your plants regularly to ensure they’re growing well:
- Water and Nutrients: Every 1–2 weeks, refill the reservoir and adjust the nutrient solution as plants consume it.
- pH Levels: For optimal growth, monitor the pH and adjust as necessary.
- Pruning and Harvesting: As plants grow, prune them as needed to promote healthy development and airflow. Harvest crops when they reach the desired size.
Step 7: Add Optional LED Grow Lights (for Indoor Gardens)
If you’re growing indoors, LED grow lights can ensure your plants receive enough light to thrive:
- Place the lights about 30–45 centimeters from the top of your plants.
- Set the timer to provide 12–16 hours of light per day, depending on your plants’ needs.
Enjoy Fresh, Homegrown Produce Year-Round!
With your hydroponic tower set up and running, you’re ready to enjoy a continuous supply of fresh herbs, leafy greens, and other plants. Regular maintenance, such as refilling the reservoir and adjusting nutrients, will keep your system thriving.