How to Make a Hydroponic Grow Wall

Identify the wall you want to sue. Steer clear of areas with drafts, doors that open and close frequently and avoid window areas, especially if you live in the north where wind chills can permeate window seals. Install green board or another type of waterproof drywall or Sheetrock product and if you can’t pull up your carpet, install a thick, rubber-based floor mat to protect the floor from water, soil, fertilizers and other agents.

Save time, money and effort by buying a complete indoor hydroponics setup that requires you to do nothing more than follow instructions. These systems are the ultimate in efficiency because they include the container, built-in grow lights, seeds or clones and even a microprocessor that triggers computer-driven signals that advise indoor farmers when it’s time to fertilize and water. These types of systems are effective for neophytes who want a little experience before they invest in a professional setup.

Place long tables against the wall if you love starting from scratch and saving money. No wood, please. You need industrial or commercial tables with non-permeable surfaces. Cover the tables with commercial plastic sheeting. Shower curtain liners can substitute. Install a grid of grow lights on the ceiling or on the wall, making sure they illuminate the entire table area so some plants don’t get less light than others. You can rig this up yourself if you know your way around ballast and tube lighting systems or buy a properly sized, ready-made grow light kit.

Compare hydroponic retail store pricing to websites selling the products you need to keep up your hydroponic wall veggie installation. Aim for one-stop-shopping for containers, nutrients and staples. The sophistication of your interior garden depends upon your confidence and budget, so if you want piping, pumps, generators, commercial fans and thermostats, go for it. Otherwise, seedlings, fill and containers will get you off to a simple start. You needn’t worry about pesticides or herbicides unless critters have access to your growing wall.

Invest in one authoritative “bible” devoted to hydroponics growing. Having one solid reference to turn to if your tomato leaves turn brown, your peppers don’t grow or your beans refuse to climb strings you’ve installed will save you worries as you continue to explore indoor, vertical growth farming methods. A comprehensive hydroponics guide explains, in layman’s terms, subjects such as critical ratios of oxygen and humidity, the benefits and techniques of cloning starter plants. It can also help diagnose problems before they get too complicated to fix.