Best Hydroponic Systems — The Ultimate Guide

There's nothing more off-putting than wanting to grow your own delicious, fresh produce or amazing herb only to realize that you don't have the best growing system in place. That's where hydroponics comes in.

Hydroponic systems are an effortless gardener's best friend, using a nutrient solution instead of soil to support plant roots. Regardless of the amount of space you have or the specific needs of your plants, there's a hydroponic system out there for you.

But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to narrow down which ones are truly the best. In fact, a simple Google search for “hydroponic stores near me” will likely yield more results than you know what to do with, depending on where you live and how much cannabis is permitted in your jurisdiction.

Don't worry, though — we're here to help. In this guide, we'll introduce you to the world of hydroponics and walk you through our top picks for the best hydroponic systems on the market.

What Is Hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using only a nutrient solution (and hydroponic fertilizer) and without any soil. The nutrient solution provides all the nutrients that the plants need to grow, and the plant roots are suspended in the solution in a container.

Hydroponics has been around for centuries and was first used by the ancient Egyptians to grow crops. The word "hydroponics" is derived from two Greek words, "hydro," meaning water, and "ponos," meaning work.

Hydroponic systems come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, but all share the same basic principles. Hydroponics is a great way to grow plants indoors, in small spaces, or even in remote locations where traditional gardening is not possible.

How Does Hydroponics Work?

Plants need three main things to grow: light, water, and nutrients. Hydroponic systems provide all three of these things to the plants using a nutrient solution instead of soil.

The nutrient solution provides all the nutrients that the plants need to grow, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and sulfur. This nutrient-rich water is then circulated through the plant roots using an irrigation system.

The plant roots absorb the nutrients from the water as it passes through them. This process is called ion exchange, which allows plants to absorb nutrients directly from the water without relying on the soil.

Unlike traditional gardening, general hydroponics also allows for precise control over the nutrient levels in the water and the pH balance, resulting in healthier and faster-growing plants.

Types of Hydroponic Systems

There are many different types of hydroponic systems available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Deep Water Culture (DWC)

Deep Water Culture (DWC) is one of the most popular and simple hydroponic systems available. It is a type of Nutrient Film Technique system, which means that the plant roots are suspended in a thin film of nutrient-rich water.

The best thing about DWC is that it is very forgiving, meaning that it is easy to get the hang of and relatively difficult to mess up. The plant roots are submerged in the nutrient solution, which means that they are constantly bathed in nutrients and oxygen.

This also means that DWC systems are great for growing large plants, as they have access to plenty of nutrients and oxygen. Deep Water Culture systems are best suited for plants that need lots of water and nutrients, such as cannabis.

How Does the Deep Water Culture System Work?

A Deep Water Culture system uses an air pump to oxygenate the nutrient solution and a timer to ensure that the solution constantly circulates through the plant roots.

The plants are suspended in net pots filled with growing media, such as rockwool or clay pellets, which sit on a floating platform in the nutrient solution. The net pots provide support for the plants while allowing their roots to easily access the nutrient solution.

The platform also has holes for the air pump to oxygenate the nutrient solution, ensuring that the plant roots have plenty of oxygen.

2. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a type of hydroponic garden system where the plant roots are suspended in a constantly flowing stream of nutrient solution. The system gets its name from the thin film of nutrient solution that flows through the plant roots.

NFT systems are best suited for plants with small, fine roots, such as lettuce and herbs. They also require less maintenance than other hydroponic systems, making them a good option for beginners.

What sets NFT apart from other hydroponic systems is its ability to grow plants in a vertical orientation, making it perfect for small spaces or large-scale commercial operations.

How Does the Nutrient Film Technique System Work?

In NFT systems, the plants are typically grown in net pots filled with grow media, just like in Deep Water Culture systems. The difference is that instead of sitting on a floating platform in the nutrient solution, the net pots are placed on a channel or trough.

These channels have a slight slope, allowing for a continuous flow of nutrient solution to flow through the plant roots. This constant flow ensures that the plant roots have access to plenty of oxygen and nutrients at all times.

NFT systems require very little maintenance and can be used to grow a wide variety of plants. However, they are best suited for smaller plants as larger plants may not be able to support themselves in the flowing nutrient solution.

3. Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain)

Another popular hydroponic system is the Ebb and Flow, also known as flood and drain. In this type of system, the plant roots are periodically flooded with nutrient solution and then allowed to drain back into a reservoir.

Ebb and Flow systems are easy to set up and maintain, making them a good choice for beginner hydroponic gardeners. They are also very versatile and can be used to grow a wide variety of plants.

Unlike the Nutrient Film Technique systems, Ebb and Flow systems can be used with any type of grow media, including rockwool, clay pellets, coco coir, and even soil.

How Does the Ebb and Flow System Work?

In an Ebb-and-Flow system, the plant roots are placed in a growing tray above a nutrient reservoir. The tray is periodically flooded with the nutrient solution using a pump and timer, allowing the plant roots to absorb the nutrients.

After a certain amount of time, the nutrient solution is drained back into the reservoir to be reused. This process is repeated throughout the day, ensuring that the plant roots have access to both oxygen and nutrients.

The plant's roots are also periodically exposed to air, allowing them to breathe and preventing root rot.

4. Aeroponics

Aeroponic Systems are slightly more advanced than other hydroponic systems and offer many benefits. The unique feature of Aeroponic Systems is that the plant roots are suspended in the air instead of a nutrient solution.

The nutrient solution is delivered directly to the plant roots via misters or sprayers, resulting in faster growth and bigger yields. This method also uses significantly less water than other hydroponic systems, as it only needs to mist the roots instead of constantly circulating a nutrient solution.

Aeroponic Systems also require less maintenance, as the plant roots are easily accessible and can be inspected for problems quickly. However, they do require careful monitoring and precise control of the nutrient solution and pH levels to ensure successful growth.

How Does the Aeroponic System Work?

In an Aeroponic System, the hydroponic seeds are technically “planted” in foam cubes or inserts, which are suspended in a grow chamber filled with air. The nutrient solution is then delivered directly to the plant roots via misters or sprayers.

The nutrient solution is carefully monitored and adjusted for pH levels and nutrients, as the roots have direct contact with it. The misting of the roots also provides oxygen, allowing for healthy plant growth.

5. Wick Systems

Wick Systems are one of the simplest and most affordable hydroponic systems available. They use a wick, such as a rope or strip of fabric, to transport nutrient solution from a reservoir to the root system of the plants.

What differentiates Wick Systems from other hydroponic systems is that they do not require any pumps or electricity to operate. The nutrient solution is drawn up through the wick and into the grow media, providing nutrients to the plant roots.

Wick Systems are best suited for small, fast-growing plants such as lettuce and herbs. They can also be an excellent option for first-time hydroponic growers, as they are easy to set up and maintain.

How Does the Wick System Work?

A Wick System typically consists of a reservoir filled with nutrient solution, a growing tray for the plants, and a cotton or nylon wick connecting the two. The plant roots absorb water and nutrients from the reservoir through the wick.

It is important to ensure that the reservoir always has enough nutrient solution, as the wick will not be able to transport any more once it runs dry. It is also important to periodically clean and replace the wick to prevent clogging and maintain optimal nutrient uptake by the plants.

Best Hydroponic Systems for Cannabis Growing

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of hydroponic systems, let’s talk about which hydroponic system you should invest in if your main goal is growing cannabis.

After all, when you search for "hydroponics stores near me," you want to make sure you're getting the best possible hydroponic system for your needs.

For starters, it’s important to understand that the best hydroponic system for cannabis may not necessarily be the best for other plants. This is because marijuana plants have specific nutrient and water needs, as well as a preference for growing mediums like Rockwool or coco coir.

For cannabis cultivation, the best systems typically have ample space for plant roots to grow and expand, as well as an efficient delivery system for the nutrient solution.

With the countless different strains of cannabis and varying growing preferences, there is no one “best” hydroponic tower for all growers. However, some systems have proven to be more successful for cannabis cultivation than others.

The following are 7 of the best hydroponic systems for growing cannabis. 

1. iDOO Hydroponics Growing System

The iDOO Hydroponics Growing System is one of the best on the market, and it’s perfect for beginner cannabis growers. This system comes with 12 growing stations, an automatic water recirculating system, and a large water tank that can hold gallons of nutrient solution.

One of the best things about the iDOO Hydroponic Growing System is that it’s extremely beginner-friendly. The assembly process is very easy, and the included instructions are clear and concise. Plus, this system is incredibly easy to use; you simply need to add water and nutrients to the tank and then place your plants in the designated slots.

The self-watering design also helps to save time and effort, as the system automatically delivers the nutrient solution to each plant’s roots. Mess, weather, or soil limitation will not be a problem with the auto-control system.

The automatic LED grow lights that come with this system feature full-spectrum lamps, which can emulate natural sunlight, allowing for optimal growth and yield. Users also have the option to choose from two light modes (fruit or vegetable) for their specific growing needs.

A see-through water level window allows easy monitoring and maintenance, making the iDOO Hydroponic Growing System one of the best options for beginner cannabis growers. Plus, the overhead fan helps to circulate air, preventing mold and mildew growth.

Overall, the iDOO Hydroponic Growing System is a great choice for those just starting out in cannabis cultivation. Its simplicity and efficiency make it an excellent investment for beginners and experienced growers alike.

2. EZORKAS Hydroponic Growing System

The number of pods in a hydroponic system plays a big role in determining how much yield can be achieved. That’s why the EZORKAS Hydroponic Growing System, with its 12 growing pods, is an excellent option for cannabis growers looking to maximize their harvest.

Indoor gardeners, in particular, will appreciate the EZORKAS system’s compact design and efficient use of space. The system is small enough to fit on a tabletop or shelf but still has enough room for 12 plants to thrive.

Plants can grow up to 21 inches tall in this system, thanks to the adjustable and removable plant braces. The EZORKAS Hydroponic Growing System also features a water circulation system, delivering nutrient solution directly to the plant roots for optimal growth.

The accompanying control panel allows users to easily get notified when the plan solution has run out or if the water level is low. Plus, users can adjust the height of the LED grow light to best suit their plants’ needs.

The EZORKAS Hydroponic Growing System uses oxygenated water, providing a better overall growing environment for plants. Its compact size and efficient design make it a great choice for indoor cannabis growers looking to maximize their yield.

All in all, the different modes and customizable options make the EZORKAS Hydroponic Growing System a top choice for cannabis cultivation.

3. Ivation Hydroponic Growing System

Having all-in-one starter hydroponics kits to get started with your hydroponic growing journey can make the process much easier, and the Ivation Hydroponic Growing System offers just that. This kit comes with everything you need to start growing cannabis, including a water pump, adjustable grow lights, plant baskets, net pots, and nutrient solution (fertilizer hydroponics).

The best thing about the Ivation system is its versatility. Whether you prefer outdoor or indoor growing, this system can easily be adapted to fit your needs. The grow lights can also be moved up and down as needed, making it easy to adjust for the best light exposure for each individual plant.

Another great aspect of this system is its expandability; it comes with 7 plant baskets, which for beginners can be plenty, but as you become more experienced, you can easily add on additional baskets to increase your yield.

The LEDs included in the Ivation Hydroponic Growing System emit white, blue, and red light to stimulate a full-spectrum growth environment. The system also has a built-in timer, allowing for easy control of light exposure and nutrient delivery.

Users can use the touch-operated control panel to monitor and manage the system’s functions, making it easy to use for both beginners and experienced growers. In addition, the circulating pump helps to prevent stagnant water and promote healthy plant growth.

Overall, the Ivation Hydroponic Growing System is a great choice for those wanting an all-inclusive kit to start growing cannabis. Its versatility and expandability make it an excellent investment for growers of all levels.

4. AeroGarden Bounty Elite

As the name suggests, the AeroGarden Bounty Elite is an amazing option for those looking to harvest a bountiful crop of cannabis in an "elite" manner. This hydroponic system comes with a high-performance LED grow light and an easy-to-use control panel that allows for customized settings.

The best thing about the AeroGarden Bounty Elite is its large growing space. This system has room for up to nine plants, allowing for a significant harvest. Plus, the included trellis and stakes make it easy to train and support larger plants as they grow.

Users also have the option to connect their AeroGarden Bounty Elite to Wi-Fi, allowing for remote control of settings from a smartphone or tablet. This feature is especially convenient for those who want to monitor and adjust the system while away from home.

The automatic timer and hands-free nutrient dosing make the AeroGarden Bounty Elite a great choice for those looking for convenience and efficiency in their cannabis cultivation. Plus, the Alexa integration allows for even easier control, making the AeroGarden Bounty Elite a top pick for tech-savvy cannabis growers.

One downside of the AeroGarden Bounty Elite is its price point, as it tends to be on the more expensive side compared to other hydroponic systems. It’s also important to note that this system may not be the best choice for smaller spaces, as it takes up a significant amount of room.

Ultimately, the AeroGarden Bounty Elite is best suited for those looking to harvest a large crop of cannabis in an efficient and high-tech manner. Its Wi-Fi capability and customizable settings make it an excellent choice for experienced growers. However, its price point and size may not appeal to beginner or budget-conscious growers.

5. Moistenland Hydroponic Growing System Starter Kit

Growing hydroponic weed just got easier with the Moistenland Hydroponic Growing System Starter Kit. This complete system includes everything you need to start growing cannabis, from plant baskets and grow lights to a nutrient solution meter and pH test kit.

The 12 planting pods included in this starter kit are made of biodegradable coco coir, making them the perfect growing medium for cannabis plants. The adjustable grow lights have a circulating feature and customizable timer, allowing you to control the amount of light your plants receive for optimal growth.

This complete indoor hydroponic grow system also includes an automatic watering function, ensuring that each plant’s roots receive the proper amount of nutrient solution. Plus, a water level indicator allows for easy monitoring and maintenance.

Water flow is a crucial part of hydroponic systems, and the Moistenland Hydroponics Growing System has a built-in water pump that helps to circulate water and oxygenate roots for maximum growth.

Some assembly is required for this system, but the included instructions make it easy for even beginners to set up. Plus, the two grow modes (Vegetables or Flowers & Fruits) allow you to customize your growing experience.

The Moistenland Hydroponic Growing System Starter Kit is a fantastic option for those just starting out in cannabis cultivation. Its all-inclusive design and ease of use make it the perfect choice for beginner growers.

6. Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System

Short on space? The Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System is the best hydroponic option for those with limited room to work with. This compact and versatile system can be placed on a flat surface, making it perfect for small indoor growing spaces.

Apart from serving as a chic side table, the Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System also features a powerful LED grow light for optimal plant growth. The included pre-dosed nutrition packets make maintaining nutrient levels easy, and the water level indicator helps monitor and maintain a proper solution balance.

The best thing about this system is its versatility; it’s not just for cannabis cultivation. The Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System can also be used for growing herbs, vegetables, and other plants. Plus, if you opt for the stacking kit, you can - you guessed it - stack multiple systems on top of each other, increasing your growing space without taking up more room.

Featuring four growing stations, the Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System is a great option for those with limited space or for those just starting out in indoor cannabis cultivation. The two gallon reservoir and efficient LED grow light make it a reliable and easy-to-use system for any type of plant.

If you often forget to water your plants, this system may be the best hydroponic option for you. This system can sync with your phone, tablet, or PC via Bluetooth and will automatically water your plants, ensuring they always have enough nutrient solution.

The Miracle-Gro Indoor Growing System is an excellent choice for those with limited space and a desire for versatile plant growth. Its compact size and minimal maintenance make it a top contender among the best cannabis hydroponic systems.

7. Hydrofarm Root Spa 8, 5 Gallon System

For those who prefer a Deep Water Culture system, the Hydrofarm Root Spa 8 is one of the best options on the market. This system includes 8 five-gallon buckets, air pumps for oxygenating the nutrient solution, and a drainage setup for easy maintenance.

One unique feature of this system is that it allows growers to customize their setup according to their specific needs. The buckets can be added or removed to fit any space, making it a great option for both small and large-scale cannabis cultivation.

The oxygenating air pumps provide plenty of oxygen to the roots, allowing for healthy and vigorous growth. Each bucket must be connected to a central pump, but the included tubing makes the setup process easy and straightforward.

Note that this system requires a large area for set-up, as the buckets need to be spread out for optimal growth. However, its customizable design and efficient oxygenation make it a leading choice for those looking for a Deep Water Culture system.

A drawback of the Hydrofarm Root Spa 8 is that it does not come with grow lights. This means that you'll have to dish out an additional $100-$200 for a good set of lights, depending on your needs. However, the benefits of this system - including its large size and customizable design - make it well worth the investment.

Why Growing Cannabis In a Hydroponic System Is Beneficial

Cannabis is a plant that thrives in soil, but it can also be grown in a hydroponic system. When grown in soil, cannabis receives its nutrients from the earth, but when grown in a hydroponic system, the plant receives its nutrients from the water.

So why is it beneficial to grow cannabis in a hydroponic system? There are several reasons:

1. Control Over Hydroponic Nutrients

One of the benefits of growing cannabis in a hydroponic system is that you have complete control over the plant's nutrient levels. With soil, it's difficult to maintain consistent nutrient levels because of the variability of the soil itself. But with a hydroponic system, you can easily adjust the nutrient levels to ensure that your plant is getting the exact nutrients it needs.

This is important because cannabis requires different nutrients at different stages of growth. For example, during the vegetative stage, cannabis plants need lots of nitrogen and potassium, while during the flowering stage, they need more phosphorus and sulfur.

A hydroponic system allows you to provide your plant with precisely the nutrients it needs at any given time. For instance, you could increase the nitrogen levels during the vegetative stage and then decrease them during the flowering stage. This level of control is simply not possible with soil.

2. Consistent Water Levels

Another benefit of growing cannabis in a hydroponic system is that you can maintain consistent water levels. This is important because cannabis plants need a lot of water - especially when they're growing rapidly - and it can be difficult to ensure that your plants are getting enough water when they're grown in soil.

A hydroponic system constantly recirculates the water, which helps to keep the water level consistent and prevents any one area from drying out. This is important because cannabis plants don't like dry soil - it can cause them to stretch and become weak. By growing your plants in a hydroponic system, you can be sure that they're always getting enough water.

Inconsistency in water levels is a common problem for cannabis growers, but it's easily avoidable if you're growing your plants in a hydroponic system. By keeping the water level consistent, you can prevent your plants from becoming stressed and increase the chances of a successful harvest.

3. Increased Yields

When grown in soil, cannabis plants typically produce about 2 ounces of buds per plant. But when grown in a hydroponic system, cannabis plants can produce up to 3 ounces of buds per plant - an increase of 50%. This means that you can produce more buds in less time by growing your cannabis in a hydroponic system.

Not only that, but the buds that are produced by plants grown in a hydroponic system tend to be more potent. This is because the plant is able to focus all of its energy on producing buds rather than on getting the nutrients it needs from the soil.

Plant food can only contribute so much to the plant's growth, and with a hydroponic system, the plant is able to get all of the nutrients it needs without having to struggle to get them from the soil. This results in stronger, more potent buds.

4. Faster Growth Rate

Weed grown in a hydroponic system also tends to grow 30-50% faster than weed grown in soil. This is because the plant has easy access to all the nutrients it needs, so it doesn't have to spend time searching for them in the soil.

Hydroponically-grown plants also don't have to deal with things like weeds, pests, and diseases that can slow down plant growth. This means that you can grow more cannabis in a shorter period of time by growing it hydroponically.

The incredible combination of consistent water levels, easy access to nutrients, and lack of pests and diseases make hydroponic systems the perfect environment for plant growth. That's why hydroponically-grown plants tend to grow faster than plants grown in soil.

5. Better Quality Cannabis

Hydroponically-grown cannabis tends to be better quality than cannabis grown in soil. This is because the plant receives the perfect amount of nutrients, so it doesn't have to deal with stressors that can affect plant quality.

Hydroponically-grown cannabis is also typically grown in a sterile environment, which further reduces the risk of pests and diseases. This results in better-quality buds that are more potent and flavorful.

We all like our weed to be of the highest quality, and hydroponic systems are the best way to grow high-quality cannabis. By providing your plants with everything they need to thrive, you can be sure that they'll produce the best buds possible.

6. Easier to Control the Environment

When you're growing cannabis in a hydroponic system, it's much easier to control the environment. This is because all of the plant's needs are met by the system, so you don't have to worry about things like soil quality, water levels, or pests and diseases.

You can also easily control the temperature and humidity in a hydroponic system. This is important because cannabis plants need specific conditions to thrive.

Rainy day? No problem. Brutal heat wave? The plants will be just fine. By growing your plants in a hydroponic system, you can be sure that they always have the perfect growing environment.

7. Less Mess and Maintenance

Hydroponic systems are also much easier to maintain than soil gardens. This is because you don't have to deal with things like soil quality, water levels, or pests and diseases. All you need to do is make sure that the system has enough nutrients and that the plants are getting the right amount of light.

Hydroponic systems also tend to be much cleaner than soil gardens. This is because there's no soil to track in and no need to water the plants. All you need to do is add nutrients to the system, and the plants will take care of the rest.

Many aspects of hydroponic growing are also automated. This means that you can set the system up and forget about it until it's time to harvest your buds. So if you're looking for a low-maintenance way to grow cannabis, hydroponics is the way to go.

Tips for Successful Hydroponic Cannabis Growing

Now that you know all about the best hydroponics systems and the benefits they offer, it's time to learn how to grow hydroponically. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Choose The Right Grow Space

After the hydroponics system, one of the most important things you need for successful hydroponic cannabis growing is a good grow space. The space you choose will need to have enough room for your hydroponics system, as well as for plant growth.

You'll also need to make sure that the space you choose has good ventilation. Cannabis plants need a lot of fresh air, so a grow room with poor ventilation will not be ideal.

2. Get The Right Lighting

Lighting is another important factor in hydroponic cannabis growing. Cannabis plants need a lot of light, so you'll need to make sure that your grow space has good lighting.

LED lights are a good option for hydroponic cannabis growing, as they provide a lot of light while using very little electricity. In fact, most of the hydroponic growing systems we listed above come with LED lights, so that's an excellent place to start.

If your chosen system doesn't come with LED lights, you can always buy them separately and add them to your system. Choose LED lights that stimulate natural sunlight, as this will help your plants grow more quickly.

3. Use The Right Nutrients

Cannabis plants need a lot of nutrients to grow properly, so it's important to use the right nutrients when growing hydroponically. There are many different nutrient solutions available, so you'll need to do some research to find the one that's best for your plants.

Generally, you will want to use a nutrient solution that's high in nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for plant growth, so make sure that your chosen solution has plenty of them.

4. Monitor The Temperature And Humidity

Cannabis plants need a certain temperature and humidity level to grow properly, so it's important to monitor these levels in your grow room. The ideal temperature for cannabis plants is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, so you'll need to make sure that your grow room stays within this range.

You will also need to keep an eye on the humidity level in your grow room. Cannabis plants prefer a humidity level of 40-60%, which can be achieved by using a humidifier or dehumidifier.

5. Be Patient

Hydroponic cannabis growing can take some time to get used to, so it's important to be patient. Don't expect to get it right on the first try, as it takes practice to master hydroponic growing.

Start with a small grow space and a few plants so that you can get the hang of things without too much stress. Once you've got the hang of it, you can start expanding your grow space and increasing the number of plants you're growing.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a general hydroponics enthusiast or a total newbie, we hope this guide has helped you narrow down the best hydroponic system for your specific needs. From Deep Water Culture to Aeroponics, there's a system out there that's perfect for everyone.

The seven products we've reviewed are just a few of the best hydroponic systems on the market - so be sure to do your research before making your final decision.

Happy growing!

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.