Hydroponics for Beginners 2026 | Complete Start Guide
Learn hydroponics from scratch. Complete beginner guide covering systems, nutrients, pH, and growing herbs and vegetables indoors.
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Is hydroponics difficult for beginners?
Not at all. Start with the Kratky method - literally just a container, nutrients, and seeds. No electricity, no pumps. Once you understand pH and nutrients, you can grow herbs easier than in soil.
What should I grow first in hydroponics?
Lettuce and basil are perfect starter crops. They grow fast (4-6 weeks), tolerate beginner mistakes, and thrive in simple systems. Avoid tomatoes and peppers initially - they need more complex setups.
How much does it cost to start hydroponics?
Basic Kratky setup: $40-60 total. Simple DWC system with air pump: $100-150. Full grow tent setup with lights: $500-750. Start small, learn the basics, then scale up.
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