Hydroponics Explorer's Kit

Five growing projects. One kit.

The Hydroponics Explorer's Kit is a configurable collection of parts for building different hydroponic and aeroponic system designs, one at a time. It brings the pumps, timers, plumbing and plant supports, alongside written steps and video guides for each build. You bring the grow container.

It's a hands-on way to see how each method works by building it yourself. It is a parts and learning kit, not a ready-to-grow appliance.

Five ways to grow without soil

Pick a design, follow its steps, then take it apart and try another.

• Deep Water Culture (DWC) — An air pump and air stone aerate a nutrient reservoir beneath net baskets, so roots hang in oxygen-rich water.
• Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) — A thin film of nutrient solution circulates past the roots instead of submerging them.
• Ebb-and-flow (flood & drain) — The growing area is flooded with nutrient solution, then drained, on a repeating cycle.
• Aeroponics — Roots hang in air and get a timed spray of nutrient solution.
• Hybrid systems — Blend ideas from the other builds into a design of your own.

What's in the box

Pumps, power & controls: 12 V programmable timers, 12 V diaphragm pumps, 12 V normally closed water valve, air pump, air hose and air stone, 12 V power supply, power cables and pigtails, connection wire.

Plumbing & spray: 1/4-inch inline valve, fine and coarse mesh filters, quick-connector retaining clips, stainless spray nozzles (0.8 mm), flexible spray bars, 1/4-inch Y quick-connect, bulkhead quick-connects (90-degree and straight), rigid white PVC tubing, 1/4-inch flexible food-grade vinyl tubing, silicone tube connectors.

Plant supports: 2-inch net baskets, expanded clay pebbles, round basket template.

Tools: tubing cutter (a sharp tool) and a 3D-printed wrench.

Seeds, nutrients, lights and a grow container are not part of the kit.

How it works

1. Choose a build. Pick one of the system designs to explore first.
2. Follow its instructions. Use the written steps and the build's video guide.
3. Assemble and learn. Put the parts together, see how the design works, then rebuild it as another one.

Who it's for

Home growers, curious beginners, makers, families, students and STEM classrooms — anyone who learns by building.

Bring your own grow container

You supply the container or reservoir. It is not part of the kit.

See the full Explorer's Kit page →