Introduction: Growing Chillis Without Soil? a Budget-Friendly Hydroponic Hack for Beginners 🌱🌿

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Imagine growing fresh, vibrant chillis at home without the hassle of soil, heavy equipment, or constant maintenance. The Kratky hydroponics method offers a revolutionary way to garden in a simple, cost-effective manner, perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. With just candy jars, plastic glasses, and a few household items, you can start your journey into sustainable gardening. Plus, this system is almost zero-maintenance, making it ideal for those with busy schedules but a love for fresh produce and the healing vibes of gardening.

Supplies

  1. Candy Jars
  2. Hydroponic Nutrients
  3. Plastic glass
  4. PVC Pipes - 1/2 inch of 15 feet
  5. PVC joints - T joints 12 pcs
  6. Cocopeat

Step 1: PVC Stand Setup

  1. Assemble the PVC pipes into a rack using T-joints to create horizontal levels for holding the jars.
  2. Alternatively, use bamboo sticks tied together with rope for a lightweight and natural frame.
  3. Ensure the stand is stable and well-aligned to hold the jars horizontally.


Step 2: Jar Holes

  1. Cut the top-rim of the plastic glass. This rim is used to mark the circle on the jars.
  2. Mark and cut two evenly spaced holes on the side of each candy jar large enough to fit the plastic glasses.
  3. Position the jars horizontally so the holes face upwards.


Step 3: Net-cups Making

  1. Take plastic glasses and make small holes all over the sides and bottom using a soldering iron or a heated knife.
  2. These holes allow the roots to grow through while holding the growing medium securely.


Step 4: Dark-cover the Jars

  1. Wrap the jars with black tape, a dark cloth, or paint them to block sunlight.
  2. This prevents algae from growing inside the nutrient solution.


Step 5: Make PVC Racks

  1. Finalize the PVC racks by securing all joints.
  2. Alternatively, finish tying bamboo sticks with rope to create a sturdy, multi-level stand.
  3. Ensure the height and spacing of the racks accommodate the jars comfortably.


Step 6: Place Jars

  1. Position the horizontally prepared jars onto the racks.
  2. Make sure the holes are facing upward and are easily accessible.


Step 7: Sterilize Solution

  1. Make a 100ml of 4.5% Hâ‚‚Oâ‚‚ solution.
  2. Use this solution to sterilize the jars and glasses to eliminate contaminants.

I had a 30% w/v of Hâ‚‚Oâ‚‚ so had to dilute by doing the maths -

  1. C1​ is the initial concentration (30%),
  2. V1​ is the volume of the 30% solution I need,
  3. C2​ is the final concentration (4.5%),
  4. V2​ is the final volume (which will be 100 ml + V1​).

Rearrange the formula to solve for V1​:

V1=(C2×V2)/C1​​

I want to end up with 100 ml of final solution, so:

V1=(4.5×100)/30=15 ml

So, I need to add 15 ml of the 30% Hâ‚‚Oâ‚‚ solution to 85 ml of water to make 100 ml of 4.5% solution.

Step 8: Sterilize Jars

  1. Rinse each jar thoroughly with the sterilizing solution.
  2. Let them air dry before use.


Step 9: Hydroponic Water

  1. Prepare the nutrient solution by mixing Hydroponic Nutrient A and B according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Ensure the pH is within the optimal range for chilli plants (5.5–6.5).
  3. Here I used purified water for household consumption, with a TDS of 90. Low TDS is good for plants.

Step 10: Filling Jars With Hydroponic Water

Pour the prepared hydroponic water into each jar until it reaches half the bottom of the inserted plastic glass.

Step 11: Filling Media in the Glasses

  1. Fill the plastic glasses (net cups) with a mixture of cocopeat as the growing medium.
  2. Gently compact it, leaving space for the roots to grow.


Step 12: Potting Saplings in Glass

  1. Take chilli saplings and carefully plant them into the cocopeat-filled glasses.
  2. Ensure the roots are in contact with the cocopeat for proper growth.
  3. I planted 2-3 saplings in each glass, to ensure a good survival rate, competition and yield.


Step 13: Putting Glasses in Jars

  1. Insert the planted glasses into the jar holes so the bottom of the glass is slightly submerged in the nutrient water.
  2. This allows the roots to absorb water and nutrients passively.


Step 14: Covering the Whole Setup

  1. Create shade for the young saplings by using a light cloth or a mesh cover.
  2. Ensure it allows airflow and filtered sunlight while protecting the plants from direct heat or excessive light.


Step 15: Maintenance

  1. Check the water level in the jars weekly and top them up with fresh hydroponic nutrient water.
  2. Inspect plants for pests and ensure healthy growth.
  3. Occasionally clean the jars to prevent residue buildup.
  4. At 45th day I checked amazing root growth underneath and flower pods on several plants.

Hydroponic gardening using the Kratky method is a game-changer for anyone looking to grow chillis or other vegetables at home. With minimal materials, a straightforward setup, and little upkeep, this system is perfect for urban gardeners, beginners, and budget-conscious growers. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your chillis, but you’ll also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Dive in today, and let the magic of gardening uplift your space and your spirit!