DIY aeroponics - Page 2

mk22 · #11 07-08-2008, 05:40 PM

just use a blackstar neoprene insert, they are designed for seeds

cloudflyer · #12 07-08-2008, 08:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by happyhigh

I was reading an article about aeroponics in a magazine and it got me thinking I could make a two plant system out of some really big rubber maids. I was wondering if anyone has done anything like this? also any links or info on aeroponics and what substrate it best(if any?) the idea i got from the article was that you use a fogger and mist system for feeding and watering? basically any info that might help me to better understand this method and maybe try a DIY system. thanks so much.

If you can not answer the following questions with a yes then there is no point/benefit of growing Aeroponicly.

#1. Do you have HID lighting?
If you are not running HPS or MH at the very least 400w or higher (in a small area), then there is no point.

#2. Are you willing to use an advanced 3 part nutrient system and take the time to constantly monitor ph/ppm?
In order for the plant to thrive, it will eat a lot of food.

#3 Can you maintain your nutrient solution at a constant 60-65 degrees?
This one is super important. The entire purpose of aeroponics is to get more o2 to the roots. Cold water is dense and packed with o2. 75 degree hold 100x less o2 than 60 degree water.

The bottom line, if you cant provide these three things, go hydro.

More to come...

Earl · #13 07-09-2008, 05:06 AM

I use a two part nute system in my aero.

It grows very fast.

If you use RO,
then the pH can be stable for days.

I keep my rez at 68º,
just to save money on cooling,
but some run temps as low as 50º

Keeping the temp 68º or lower is mandatory,
for a trouble free grow.

Show your grow.

cloudflyer · #14 07-09-2008, 08:17 PM

Alright
There are three main types of indoor aeroponics.

Beat it into submission
High PSI Pumps
or
Pressurized system

Most people think about different types of nozzles. The pump defines the nozzle, your wallet and space defines the pump.

Beat it into submission.
Mini sprinkler heads, spinning disks, and tubes with pin holes.
Technically this is not really Aeroponics. It's still effective, but it is hydroponics. The water droplets they produce are quite large in comparison to other methods. These types of systems are usually in small containers or PVC fence posts. This is a bad thing because the purpose of aeroponics is to suspend the roots. a puddle forms when the roots hit bottom and it becomes more of a deep water culture. They use a pump you can buy at wal-mart for under $50. Again not really aeroponics.
http://www.hydroponic-aeroponic.com/...sprinkler1.jpg

High PSI pumps like this one
Ecoplus 250 Pump by Horizen Hydroponics
allow you to use mist nozzles like these
DIG CORP: Series EXL 500 low flow fogger

This is aeroponics, the droplets are very fine. If your roots hang, you will be very happy.

And then there is pressurized systems that have pre pressurized tanks that put out very high PSI. Ultra small droplets, but very costly.

The blue bins are a great idea because they allow roots to dry off in minutes, then they are sprayed again (requires special timer for the last 2 systems)

cloudflyer · #15 07-10-2008, 05:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Earl

very cool.

You could skip the rocks
and use neopreme.

Thats a great idea, I am going to have to try that. I use expanded clay pellets in 3" net pots. Not as a medium but for support. Your idea is much better. Im with you too on the brown spounge instead of rockwool. I hate rockwool, at first it sheads, cloging shit up. Plus it needs to be ph balanced.