Air lift pump for hydroponics

 Air lift pump is an age old system used to pump water to a higher place. This system is a non effective system, but for hydroponics where we need to push water drop by drop and not in bulk, works best.

Planter to hydroponics

Converted this basic planter to a hydroponics system. The base plate is cut to hold the net pots. The drain holes have to be closed with m-seal. Plants grow happily in this SIP.

Deep water culture. Just had to add the water plus nutrients once in the whole lifetime of the plant (seed to harvest). As the roots grow the water goes down with it. This creates an air pocket which helps in air circulation.

Grow yellow pea shoots

Use yellow pea shoots as an addition to salad. They are milder than the raw peas. They also don't have the lectins which is a natural toxin which is contained in the peas. You can eat the pea shoots for added protein and crunch to your food.

Mini Hydroponics system

A friend started a mini home hydroponics system last week. Started with an ice-cream container, cutting out holes for the 2 inch netpots. Simple box cutter worked like a charm.

Holding as much as 250ml of water. This much water is sufficient for a few set of mustard. He wanted to start with something. Proposed mustard from the kitchen spice rack. Every Indian house has mustard (even if it is a bachelor's condo). Mustard greens start within 2 to 3 days.

He is happy with his greens now. Wants to grow them to fully grown mustard plans. Roots have not come out of the baskets. Some of the tiny greens are dying out. May be due to the root congestion.