So I was originally interested in Hydroponics (And I still may revert back to that plan depending on the answers I get here) but then I discovered Aeroponics.
Long story short, I've VERY interested in pursuing this, but I definitely have a couple of questions and hurdles.
1) I can't afford to purchase a ready-made system, and I won't be able to for a very long time. I've found instructions on how to make a very decent one of your own, but the only part I don't understand is how you time it to spray/mist every 15 seconds. Obviously you need a timer, but what kind and how do you attach it?
2) Next, I've gathered that there's some sort of nutrient mix that I'll need to mix into my reservoir. How much will this cost? I know of several hydroponic shops in my city, but I've never gone into one to check.
3) I know of these mandatory things: Keeping the nutrient level right, keeping the pH level right, and keeping the timing of the misters right so the roots stay properly moist. Is there any other major "make or break" thing I should know about that I havent read about?
Thank you very much. (Also, I am very aware there is much more to it than what I'm asking --- I'm simply asking about the parts I do not understand. I understand the rest.)
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The best results come when u run the sprayers 24/7. The only problem u encounter is the water temperature gets too hot. The cheap way to keep costs down is to set up aero outside submerged into the ground. U will need a ph/ppm meter, nutes ( fox farm is easiest, but expensive). Keep nutes from 750-1200 ppm. Sprayers will be rated for gallons per hour, so however many sprayers u get, add up the total and bam, that’s how big of a submErsible water pum u will need. If growing indoors, u will need a special timer for ur pump to run like 2 min on 1 min off. U can find a feeding scheldue at foxfarm.com.
Unless you plan on babysitting the system daily, it is not worth the expense and trouble. It’s also grossly UNhealthy for the enviroment in terms of energy consumption and waste products (in the water). I would only advise this for people planning on living in space or underground for VERY long periods of time…the "make or breaks" you listed are plenty of reason to avoid this…one lengthy power outage and you’re done (unless you have an expensive back up generator and proper set up).
Nutrient: http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=A0geutmkeg1Pn2wAtRdhxrF_?p=nutrients+used+in+aeroponics&fr=ush-ans&pqstr=nutrients+used+in
Timer: http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=A0geuszeeg1PyDcAEhNhxrF_?p=cycle+timer+for+aeroponics&fr=ush-ans&pqstr=timer+for+aer
pH: http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=aeroponic+pH&fr=ush-ans