What hydroponics supplies do you need to get started? Let us take a look at some of the basics of hydroponics to help you succeed in your venture. Hydroponics is a type of indoor gardening that uses hydroponic nutrients instead of soil. This nutrient solution provides everything the plants need to grow healthily. There are several basic types of hydroponics supplies you will need if you would like to get started growing plants hydroponically.

Of course, not everyone needs the same hydroponics supplies - what you buy is going to vary depending on the system type you would like to use. Most systems do require a reservoir or large basin, an aerator and pump to move the solution around and keep it properly oxygenated, and a method for holding the plants above the solution, such as a tray or net. The roots must be able to reach the solution without drowning the plant.

Lighting is also a big concern. When buying hydroponics supplies, be sure to check out your lighting options. If you will be growing large numbers of plants, or plants that usually require a lot of sunlight, you may need to buy fairly strong lights. Remember - the goal is to imitate the light of the sun. Some growers choose lights primarily in the blue and green spectrums to encourage faster growth, especially in seedlings. However, those are not the only lights in the hydroponics supplies section.

You will also need lights in the red spectrum. These simulate late summer lighting, and will help encourage fruiting and flowering in mature plants. To increase the light coverage, consider using reflectors. Control the power flow using digital ballasts, which will help keep your lighting even. Of course, some lights run pretty hot. Choose fans from your hydroponics supplies retailer to cool them off and prevent your plants from scorching or wilting.

Growing medium is important, as well. You can purchase a commercial medium, or mix your own from a kit or chemicals. Add a cloner, and you will have a full complement of hydroponics supplies. It does take a bit of an investment to get things started, but you will be glad you made it once you are growing your own hydroponic plants indoors! Take a little time to assess the space and budget you have available, determine what you would like to grow, and find out which supplies are available to you.

Make a list before you go shopping, and be sure to compare prices before you buy. You will end up with a great deal, and the ability to grow plants like you never have before. Choose the right hydroponics supplies to get the best results out of your growing efforts. You will not be sorry.

Laura Greene is an avid hydroponics gardener. She loves to find the latest technique in how to improve her hydroponics systems at home.