With this post we are going to cover the basics of Hydroponic Supplies.

Hydroponic gardening is a type of indoor gardening which does not require soil for plant growth. The results are amazing as it lets you produce healthy vegetables and fruits right indoors. This system works with individual and  commercial requirements and most of all it is very affordable.

Hydroponic Equipment and Supplies are required to make your hydroponic  gardening a success. There is an array of Hydroponic Supplies that all go hand in hand  and compliment each other to form a complete system.

Light being an essential component in plant growth, you will require grow  lights preferably led grow lights since they are environmentally friendly and  efficient in usage of energy.

These are however pricy but compact fluorescent  light also works as well for those on a tight budget. Other types of equally  efficient lighting are the HPS, HID and MH grow lights.

Choosing the right  spectrum is also a key consideration for you to make bearing in mind that for  younger plants to grow strong they will require blue spectrum grow lights  whereas mature plants require orange or red spectrums to induce fruition or  flowering.

Falling under the Hydroponic Supplies category, you will need plant nutrients as this is what plants feed on in  order to grow. You will need to frequently purchase or stock up on these  supplies as they are required on a regular basis.

This will be in form of a  solution mixed with water. In some plans you will be  required to procure pumps that will ensure each  plant gets sufficient nutrients in all their lifer cycles.

You will require a  pump that is reliable and that which fits perfectly to your set up. Also, are  the containers chosen judiciously on the basis of the type of plants you are  cultivating.

You will require smaller trays for small leafy plants such as  lettuce and bigger vinyl pots for larger plants. Ph control gadgets will also  come in handy in adjusting the acidity levels in your hydroponics system  ensuring it remains at normal levels. This will go a long way in ensuring a  healthy growth curve for your plants.

A simple starter type plan could be found here.

A growing medium is also another key requirement for Hydroponic Supplies, as this is what will hold  the roots up enabling water and air to flow freely.

Other supplies vary with  the system with some requiring drip irrigation equipment, nutrient reservoirs, and some requiring aerators that ensure adequate oxygen by keeping the roots  exposed. It is also worth noting that systems that are pot based will usually  give more quality as it gives you the opportunity to tend to each plant  individually but then again that is a personal preference.

Drip systems will  make your work easier even when your system is not pot based and is generally  cheap and very efficient.

You will also need to wash your Hydroponic Supplies to keep them in top  performance. The following steps will guide you through the process.

First stop  the pump and then drain the entire nutrient reservoir into a container and  discharge the solution. With a clean rag wipe clean the grow tray, drain  fittings, sprayers and the nutrient reservoir.

Refill with clean water your  nutrient reservoir and allow settling for an hour uncovered. This will ensure  dissipation of all chlorine in the water. To your nutrient reservoir, add  hydrogen peroxide at 35% concentration per each gallon of water. Mix, then turn  on your pump and leave to run for at least 24 hours. This serves to clean  thoroughly the drain fittings, tubing and sprayers and all other parts in the  system that usually comes into contact with water.

Turn off the pump and then  drain and discard the hydrogen peroxide solution.

Finally fill the entire  nutrient reservoir with clean water and allow it sit for an hour uncovered, then  following the manufacturers guidelines add a concentrated nutrient solution and  restart the pump.

There are several factors to consider while purchasing Hydroponic Supplies such as, the space available in your growing room, especially considering the  height of the system, the budget you are working with and the manpower  requirement just to name a few.

If your growing room is less than 6 feet with  regards to height, opt for more compatible systems that will ensure your plants  have ample breathing and growing space. With that you will be guaranteed a higher yield  especially with proper lighting.