Although aeroponic systems are the most technical of all the hydroponic systems, they are a popular choice among home growers.

Aeroponic systems are extensively used by home growers because:

• They require minimal growing media.
• Plants grow faster because they receive more oxygen.
• They use very little water compared to other hydroponic systems.
• It is easier to harvest crops while using this method.

The principle behind the working of an aeroponic system is exposing the roots to more oxygen so as to accelerate their growth.

Let’s get started with building a typical aeroponic system:

1. Building Blocks for your Aeroponic System:

   A water-tight, air-tight growing chamber to house the roots which is also light-proof A reservoir for the nutrient solution
   A submersible pump that is controlled by a timer
   Sprinkler heads
   Tubing to connect the sprinkler heads with the reservoir
   Tubing to retract the excess nutrients back to the reservoir

2. Setting up

   The growing chamber should have small holes on the top surface to make room for suspending plants. The plants are suspended in the growing chamber by inserting them in small baskets or foam-plugs that fit into the holes on the top surface of the growing chamber. The plants are suspended in such a manner that the roots are suspended in mid-air in the growing chamber.

3. Working of the System

   The sprinkler heads spray the nutrients to the roots in short frequent cycles that are evenly spaced.

   In addition, regular watering cycles are provided to these roots. The water cycle ensures that the roots remain moist while also providing the roots with essential nutrients.

4. Essentials of the System

   While designing your aeroponic system, you should be aware of the basic objective of the system. The objective of an aeroponic system is to provide the optimum balance of humidity, moisture, and nutrients to the roots for healthy growth.

   Therefore, using an air-tight and water-tight growing chamber ensures that it is safe from the influx of pests and that there is no spillage of water.

   Another critical factor is the size of water droplets being sprayed. Spraying the roots with a fine mist of water instead of a stream of water is better because promotes the growth of bushier roots that have a larger surface area for absorbing nutrients. Besides, it also speeds up the time taken for growth.

5. Maintenance of the System

   Sprinkler heads in an aeroponic system clog with residual nutrient deposits with time. Check the sprinkler heads from time to time. Ensure that you have a set of spare sprinkler heads to replace clogged ones while you clean the clogged ones.

   The roots being grown need to be kept moist at all times else they could die. Therefore, ensure that you take care of the water requirements under all circumstances.

   Ensure that you supply your roots optimum level of nutrients to promote healthy growth.

With these handy tips, you can grow your aeroponic system easily!