I watched a video today that demonstrates how to build a hydroponic tower for the classroom. With a few modifications suggested by Dave Salcido you can build an aeroponic tower for $100. The video covers much of the process, and I have attached a copy of the Modified Smaller Grow Tower Instructions.
There are a number of options for this build. You can follow the directions exactly and end up with a tower that has two plant buckets for about $150. You can use pool noodles for a two or three bucket system and build your aeroponic tower for $100 or less. Finally, you can build a three bucket plant tower using the pvc elbows for about $180. These prices are calculated using local hardware components. You may or may not be able to do as well.
As part of the upgraded version of the tower, Dave Salcido suggests that you add wheels to the platform to allow easy movement. This is especially true if you are planning on moving the tower to catch the sun, indoors or outdoors.
Adding the Spray Head
When building the three plant bucket model, the length of the water delivery pipe is subject to experimentation. Since there are a number of possible spray heads, you should make the pipe, with the spray head attached, almost touch the top lid. Test with the lid off to see where the water sprays. You probably want to do this either outdoors or in the shower. You want the water to spray as close to the lid as possible, without too much overspray. This will allow the water to soak your plants in the top bucket.
I have this tower on my project list for this year, so I would really appreciate any comments and suggestions you may have, especially if you build it.
Looking for More Ideas?
If you are interested in more DIY hydroponic builds, check out my review of “Review of Getting Started in Hydroponics”.
This article was based on the project created by Alaska Agriculture in the Classroom’s Indoor Gardening Curriculum project.