Aeroponics, alternatively called “fogponics,” is the innovative process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil. Plant roots are in a container filled with nutrient-rich mist. The mist is created by a fogger that sits in a pool of water at the base of the container. Concentrated nutrients are added to the water to precisely control over plant growth. Aeroponics is a subset of hydroponics, the slightly better-known process of growing plants running water. This project uses a bucket to make a small aeroponic system that can be used in a home or office.

Step 1: Materials

Materials List:

5 Gallon Bucket 317 gallon per hour
1/2″ threaded Hydroponics Pump 360 degree
1/2″ plastic head threaded sprinkler heads
1/2″ X 12″ cut-off threaded poly riser
Indoor/Outdoor Electrical Timer with 30 Minute Increments
Lids for Hydroponic Net Pots
sandpaper
Wood for base 2 2x4 of pine (Eventually maple / cherry / hardwood?)
Clay Beads (for growing)

Step 2: Assembling Pump

Measure the threaded poly riser so it does not stick out of the bucket and cut it to size using a chop saw.

Assemble pump, cut threaded poly riser, and sprinkler head.

Step 3: Printing Net Pots

I used a net pot I found of Thingiverse (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:790339) and sized it up to 83 mm to fit my lids.

These print fine without supports, but I did find a raft to be helpful.

Print 1-7 of these!

Step 4: Cutting Lid

Trace your printed net pots onto the lid of your bucket, and cut out a slightly smaller circle with a scroll saw.

Step 5: Wooden Base

I will add more to this later when I can actually cut the wood, but cut these pieces out of 2x4s.

Step 6: Assemble!

Put the net pots in the holes, fill with clay beads, and cover with the lids. Run the pump wire through one of the holes and attach to the timer. Add water and plants!