Grow Mediums 5-gallon water jug made into a hydroponic bucket?

[PhilGarcia]

I am thinking of using a 5-gallon water jug with the top chopped off to accommodate a root basket as a home-made single-plant hydroponic system.

Any thoughts on that? Would the fact that it's clear (and let in light to the root system) be an issue?

Regarding the plastic material, since it is made for drinking water I assume that it won't be toxic. But...Will that material mess with the PH?

Thanks!!!!!!

 

[realcarlos]

Hey there Phil, I don't see an issue with that
Get a netcup some hydroton and you should be good.
Light getting through won't be good. Tape the outside with black masking tape or something. Light will create algae as well as stunt the growth

 

[Jackal]

You could paint it black to keep out the light, but honestly you would be better off with a 5 gallon bucket. They aren't expensive. You could pick one up at most big box stores.

 

[PhilGarcia]

Thanks for the reply, Carlos. I assumed that having a clear reservoir would be a problem. I should probably just keep it simple and use a 5-gallon bucket. I was looking at these plans for a cheap DIY single-plant system: http://www.hydroponics-simplified.com/bucket-hydroponics.html

What is a recommended size for a net cup? I see that they make various sizes.

 

[yodabuds]

I'm sure the container would be fine as far as ph and toxicity is concerned. You definitely thinking right clear would not be good for the root system.
May I suggest a 40lb litter container? Absolutely PERFECT SIZE for a hydro
Bucket, it's basically the exact same
Size as the waterfarm unit.
View attachment 156029
Just a thought... Messed with hydro
Once many many years ago and was to much for ME...
Best Luck!
Yodabuds

 

[PhilGarcia]

You beat me to it, Jackal...A bucket is much simpler.

Can you guys/gals think of any ways to improve on this design? http://www.hydroponics-simplified.com/bucket-hydroponics.html

 

[realcarlos]

I haven't done a dwc so I'm not a 100% sure about the net cup size
Those plans do look good. Making a dwc isn't that difficult, but maintaining it maybe a different story.
Not trying to steer you away from dwc. But why not try a hempy bucket or soil?

 

[PhilGarcia]

First-off, I have zero experience with growing...And, I know that starting with hydro is not starting at the simple level. But, I live in a very humid environment with a high potential for mildew and flushing & cleaning out a bucket seems much easier than having to ditch a lot of soil and probably lose the plant. Any thoughts on that?

 

[gradolabs]

Phil, thats a solid kiss design, but the sky is the limit. You could add a drip system pretty easily to pump a little but of water at regular intervals. Just keep your ec and ph in line throughout the grow and you'll get what you're looking for.

 

[Jackal]

6" is big enough IMO. The size of the cups are mainly for plant stability.

http://www.greners.com/wide-lip-basket-6.html