DIY Simple Kratky Gro Project!
Robert C. Newkirk, Jr.
April 17, 2022
Greetings, Kratky Gro Enthusiasts! The picture on the left is a simple way to grow vegetables using the Kratky Grow Method. The project is very simple and easy to do, Plus! it does not cost a lot of money to build! As with most hydroponics projects, the bulk of the expense lies with the nutrients and growing mediums. The good thing is once you purchase the required nutrients, depending on if you choose liquid fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer it usually lasts for a while.
The materials that I used for this project are as follows:
Qty. (1) - 80 FL OZ (2QT 1 PT)2.36L Vlasic Pickle Jar
Qty. (1) - Net cup (Not sure of the actual size, but it measures 4" Across the top of the net cup) or a Red Solo Plastic Cup
Qty. (1) - Brown paper bag
Qty. (1) - Rubber band or a piece of twine about 4" inches long
Growing medium: I used expandable clay pebbles, but you can use whatever kind you like
Nutrients: I use General Hydroponics nutrients, but you can use whatever kind you like
Water: I use rainwater when I can, but you can use tap, distilled, or bottle
Seed: In the pictures above, I use a Red Radish seed, but you can use lettuce, turnip, or radish. You should not use a big flowering seed like tomatoes, watermelons, cucumbers, or fruit-bearing plants because they will require a bigger container that uses a lot more water and nutrients.
Directions:
Step 1: Place the pickle jar into a brown paper bag
Step 2: Place a rubber band or tie your twine just below the treads of the pickle jar
Step 3: Fold down the top of the bag just below the opening of the pickle jar
Step 4: Fill your net cup or plastic solo cup (If you use a solo cup, make sure you place big enough holes in it so the roots can reach the nutrients) with the growing medium of your choice
Step 5: Place your seed or established plant into the growing medium
Step 6: Fill your pickle jar with water to about 1/16th of an inch above the bottom of the net cup or your solo plastic cup. You want the net cup or solo plastic cup to sit in the water enough to keep your growing medium wet
Step 7: Add your nutrients to the water
Step 8: Place your newly built Kratky Gro Project under a grow light or in an area with plenty of sunlight.
Step 9: Have fun, get excited, and explore more ways to grow your favorite foods.