What do you REALLY need from a hydro shop?

I just visited my first, real-life, hydro shop today and was quite impressed with the amount of things they had to get you started. They obviously know what their customer "hobbyist" are doing and provide with literally everything you need to start your own grow, including duct, mylar, electric componants, pumps, etc.

My question is, what are the things you ONLY can get from a hydroshop. They sell everything, but I know that things like duct and tubing can be bought elsewhere and for much cheaper.

P.h. meter it is VERY IMPORTANT.

TetraHyC said:

P.h. meter it is VERY IMPORTANT.

Click to expand...

got mine from my local garden center/aquarium supplier, along with tds meter and solutions.

TetraHyC said:

P.h. meter it is VERY IMPORTANT.

Click to expand...

ask if they have any display lights or equipment that they would give you a discount on.
Be prepared, know exactly what type of system you want.
as far as nutrients the most expensive is not always best
try to keep it simple....fewer products = fewer hassles.
Most importantly ask questions lots of questions.
just don't speak about specific plant type....sure they know
but a certain discretion is appreciated.

lol my local hydro shop has a big sign when you walk in that says "DO NOT MENTION MARIJUANA"

The only thing I buy at the hydro shop is DNF Organic Grow and Bloom. Everything else is cheaper elsewhere. The local garden center charges $10 for a bale of Pro-Mix compared to $25 at the hydro shop.

Problem is, many local garden centers, Home Depots, etc. don't carry Pro-Mix. Just visited my local yesterday looking for some, all they had was Miracle-Gro. Yeccch! So it depends alot on what is available locally. Try finding worm castings anywhere but a hydro store.
VG