If you want to grow your own herbs on your balcony but don’t have much space, a small hydroponic setup may be a perfect solution. Hydroponics, the practice of soil-free gardening, replaces traditional soil with a nutrient-rich water solution. In this DIY guide, we’ll explore a method that doesn’t require an air pump but instead uses a wick system to draw the nutrient solution to the plant roots. Equipment you’ll need:
Recyclable plastic box or container (size as needed, minimum depth 15cm)DrillMineral-rich water solution (recipe provided in step 3)Net pots or recyclable plastic plantersGrowing medium (e.g. clay pellets, coco peat, perlite)Seeds of your choiceRope-like material made of felt or fabric
Step 1: Choose the type of unit you want to use DIY hydroponic systems come in a variety of forms, and for this guide, we’ll be using a recyclable plastic box or container. You can easily find these materials locally or reuse containers you already own. Step 2: Decide on the growing medium to use Select an appropriate growing medium for your herbs. Options include rockwool, clay pellets, coco peat, coconut fiber/chips, perlite, or vermiculite. Choose the one that best suits your needs and the herbs you plan to grow. Step 3: Prepare your nutrient solution Prepare a nutrient solution by combining primary nutrients (nitrogen, potassium, magnesium), secondary nutrients (calcium, sulfur, phosphorus), and micronutrients (iron, copper, manganese, zinc, molybdenum). Here is a recipe for a 20 liter solution: 25 ml of calcium nitrate 1.7 ml of potassium sulfate 8.3 ml of potassium nitrate 6.25 ml of monopotassium phosphate 17.5 ml of magnesium sulfate 2 ml of trace elements Store the nutrient solution in a food container at room temperature, away from light, and shake well before use. Using the wick system for herb gardening:
Prepare the reservoir: Purchase or reuse a recyclable plastic box or container. Make sure it is at least 6 inches deep and suitable for your herbs. Drill holes in the lid to allow the rope-like material to pass through. Fill with nutrient solution: Pour most of the prepared mineral-rich water solution into the box, leaving about 3 inches of space from the top. Insert the absorbent material: Pass the rope-like material (felt or fabric) through the holes in the lid. One end should be in contact with the nutrient solution inside the box, and the other end should extend for planting. Plant your herbs: Insert net pots into the holes in the lid. Fill these net pots with your chosen growing medium and plant your herb seeds. The absorbent material will draw the nutrient solution from the box to your herb roots.
Pro Tips for Herb Gardening:
Choose herbs suitable for hydroponic growing, such as basil, mint, cilantro, and parsley. Make sure your balcony gets enough sunlight or use grow lights if necessary. Regularly monitor nutrient solution and water levels and keep the pH in the appropriate range for your herbs. Watch for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to protect your herb garden. With this modified method, you can create a simple and effective hydroponic system on your balcony for herb gardening without the need for an air pump. Enjoy growing your own fresh herbs with this soilless gardening method. Happy herb gardening!