From novice to expert growers and gardeners, a high-quality hydroponic system can surely come a long way. Coming from tested and proven reliable brands, these hydroponic systems will not only help your cannabis plants grow. These set of tools and equipment will guarantee that your plants are supplied with sufficient nutrient solution and oxygen. You can also make sure that they will not become ill due to lack of watering.
These systems are linked to a reservoir where water and nutrient solutions are stored whenever your plants need some. So, read on to learn more about the best hydroponic system for growing cannabis and the basic things of growing cannabis.
Table of Contents
#1. PowerGrow Systems Deep Water Culture (DWC) Hydroponic Bucket Kit
This Editor’s Choice is the best product in this list if you want to try growing cannabis hydroponically. This model from PowerGrow Systems is very easy to use and requires less effort to take care of your plants. It uses an FDA approved bucket that has a capacity of 5 gallons and 6 inches net pot bucket lid. It includes Growstones growing medium that is more efficient than regular hydroton clays. Of course, it also comes with its own powerful air pump, air tubing, and a cylinder air stone.
In addition, it includes 3 pieces of Grodan Rockwool starter plugs, a blue water level indicator, and its own drain. Therefore, it results in more superior growth and production of cannabis plants.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 6.3 pounds with 16 x 12 x 12 inches dimension
- 5 gallons of FDA approved bucket allows plants’ roots to grow in a rich water reservoir with oxygen and nutrients
- 6 inches net pot bucket lid with medium Growstones Growing provides better growth effects than hydroton clay
- 44 GPH air pump connects to the air tubing provides enough oxygen for your plants
- 2 inches diameter cylinder air stone slowly distributes air into the tank to eliminate creating noise and bubbles
- Blue Water Level Indicator with a bucket drain keeps your plants’ water fresh and clean
- Oxygen filled solution helps plants’ root system to grow better faster and healthier than those that are planted in soil
As our Editor’s Choice, there’s no doubt that this is one of the best products that you can get in a complete set. As mentioned in its product description, it comes with everything needed in order to grow cannabis in nutrient-infused water! Thus, we highly recommend it this model for first time and veteran cannabis growers.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly and ideal for starters
- Promotes faster and smoother growth without exerting too much effort
- Provides everything you would need in growing cannabis for a complete system
- Uses rich water infused with enough oxygen and nutrients
- Comes with Rockwool seeds starting plugs
Cons:
- The air pump could have been powerful
- The Rockwool is a little bit low in quality
#2. General Hydroponics EcoGrower Drip Hydroponic System
If you’re looking for a high-end hydroponic system for growing cannabis, this can be a nice choice. Apparently, this comes as the Budget Pick among heavy-duty models out there in spite of its price. Besides, it is a full-packed set since it contains a total of 6 large net pots while others only have 1. Of course, it also has a total of 6 lid inserts that go with its net pots.
In addition, it already includes Flora nutrients which come in handy in growing making your plants grow faster and healthier. It also comes with its own air-driven spider drip system and an air pump with a single outlet.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 30.5 pounds with 26 x 23 x 18 inches dimension
- 17 gallons of hexagonal reservoir gives it enough space where your plants can grow up at the same time
- Spider pumping column makes up its air driven drip system with a removable 6 lid inserts
- 6 inches net pot is placed in each lid insert to house large cannabis plants
- Single Elite 800 air pump with a single outlet and ¼ air line keeps it up and running to grow your plant
- Clay pebbles complete this set in ensuring your plants’ growth in a 3-part flora kit packed with nutrients
For those who are looking for a compact hydroponic system, this is what we can certainly recommend. It has enough space for large plants all compressed in a hexagonal reservoir with removable lied inserts. We can also guarantee that it has high-quality CocoTek liners and clay pebbles to support the plants.
Pros:
- Great for first time and veteran growers
- Easy to maintain and to manage
- Provides a complete set for growing plants hydroponically
- Includes a conductivity testing kit except for cannabis seeds
- Tested and proven by a well-established company
Cons:
- Certainly not the cheapest option for budget-seekers
- Not ideal for tight spaces
#3. HTG Supply Bubble Brothers 6-Site DWC Hydroponic System
Whether you are a novice or an expert in hydroponic growing, this system can certainly work. It is very easy to set up and to operate. Regardless of its net pots and buckets that appear to be pretty standard, it’s actually worth its price. However, it does need a hole for the hose to ensure your plants’ growth. Bubble Brothers 6 Pot DWC System is a tested and proven product for both first time and expert gardeners.
It supplies sufficient nutrient and oxygen to your plants’ roots can absorb directly from the water. At the same time, its air stones aerate and agitate your water constantly while your plants’ roots hang freely.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 31 pounds with 30 x 15 x 15 inches dimension
- Complete set of 6 site HTGSupply DWC hydroponic system
- 6 low profile assembled buckets with 3.5 gallons capacity
- 6 RhizoCore advanced net pot lids with 6 inches height to house your cannabis
- 6 (2 inches) premium air stones stay submerged at the bottom
- 1 commercial air pump with 951 GPH high power, 41W, and 42Amps@120V connects to its 50’ roll ¼ inch air tubing
- 10-liter bag full of high-quality clay pebbles grow medium completes its set
It’s great that it has raised cone that serves as centers where we can place Rockwool cubes. Without soil, it can absorb all its needed oxygen and nutrients while handing in the water. Its modern advancements also make it more efficient to use for growing cannabis.
Pros:
- Affordable and inclusive kit for both novices and experts
- Quality tubing and big aerator stones
- Easy to set up, operate, and maintain
- Promotes an explosive growth to plants in an assembled bucket system
- Provides enough air for each bucket
Cons:
- Some pumps are extremely loud and get hot easily
- Doesn’t have a built-in drain tube into the buckets
#4. AutoPot 4Pot System Gravity Fed Watering System
For a dual medium cannabis hydroponic system, this is certainly one of the best. This gravity-fed watering system is hassle-free to install and to operate that can automatically water your plants in linked pots. Actually, it doesn’t require maintenance and any gadget that consumes power. It is also extendable so you can link as many pots as you need on its single water reservoir. You can leave it for a few days once you supplied it with your plants’ needed nutrients. Thus, it is an efficient option for all types of cannabis growers.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 8.5 pounds with 24 x 11 x 15 inches dimension
- 4 gallons reservoir with lid and ¼ inches top hat grommet
- 4 (¼ inches) tee connectors, 2 (¼ inches) cross connectors, and 2 (¼ inches) inline taps
- 4 net pot trays and lids come with 4 pieces of pots with 4 gallons capacity
- 4 AQUAvalves come with 13 ft. of ¼ inches pipe and ¼ inches golf filter
- 4 black and gold root control disc completes its set
Pros:
- Doesn’t require pumps, timers, and power to operate
- Versatile hydroponic system for both gardeners and cannabis growers
- Compatible with a single reservoir
- Can be easily extended to link additional pots
Cons:
- The instruction could have been more a little precise for fittings
#5. Oxygen Pot Systems 6 Site Expansion Kit For Hydroponic Grow Systems
This kit is designed with a super flow system that provides premium support to plants’ growth. Designed to take gardening and cannabis growing into the next level, it promotes new technology for all levels of users. Specifically, it comes with advanced fabric pots for aerating your plants constantly and letting them absorb enough oxygen. These fabric pots are made from high-quality polypropylene to make sure that it can last for years. Its design also promotes better yields while it protects your plants’ roots from developing diseases.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 20 pounds with complete T-fittings and grommets
- 6 grow sites of custom green molded buckets
- 6 gallons capacity with a full bottom draining system
- 6 fabric pots with a super flow system provide enough room for your plants’ roots to reach their full growth
- 30’ ¾ inches kink proof tubing premium glossy with UV-resistant vinyl tubing transfers nutrients from your reservoir to your plants smoothly
Pros:
- Easy to clean and drain
- Safe and made from food grade plastic materials
- Complete with all the necessary tubing and fittings
- Suitable for growing and gardening
Cons:
- Requires frequent monitoring to keep your plants well-fed with its needed nutrients
#6. Viagrow Complete Ebb & Flow Hydroponics System
This Flood and Drain Kit from Viagrow is packed with all the necessary tools and equipment for a new growing station. Though its lighting system and nutrient solution are sold separately, it’s definitely a steal. It can grow up to 16 cannabis plants that can be arranged on its tray to maximize your limited space. It’s a type of Ebb and Flow hydroponic system. Thus, it can distribute the precise amount of nutrients, water, and oxygen to your plants to improve its growth and yields.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 100 pounds with 40.5 x 40.5 x 24 inches dimension
- Flood and Drain fitting kit with 50L bag grow rocks
- 3-10L bags of grow rocks ViaStone
- Viagrow with 211 GPH submersible pump comes with a grounded multi-pin timer prevents plants from being overfed
- ½ and ¾ inches black poly tubing connects to its 9 nursery pots with a 1-gallon capacity
- 20-gallon reservoir uses 36 x 36 x 7 inches ID white flood tray 3 x 3 x 2 inches metal tray stand
Pros:
- Complete in a compact packaging
- Capable of growing up to 16 plants in a limited space
- Delivers just enough oxygen, nutrients, and water to your plants
Cons:
- Could have been better with a bigger tank with over 30 gallons capacity
- A little pricey
#7. General Hydroponics WaterFarm Complete
Designed with a 3 part Flora kit and 9L of Hydroton, this WaterFarm Module comes with sturdy plastic parts. Rest assured that you can maximize its use longer in its unique square shape that allows you to pack units. At the same time, it allows you to create large and high-density installations for your cannabis plants. From small to large plants, you can rely on this complete kit with large water capacity and low water requirements.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 15.1 pounds with 10.3 x 16.5 x 10.6 inches dimension
- 4-gallon reservoir with 2-gallons growing chamber
- Column support tube works with its pumping column and Elite 800 air pump
- Drip ring connects with its drain level tube and ½ inches grommet
- High-impact plastic bucket ensures its long years of service
- Unique square design allows you to pack modules better to create a bigger and high-density installation
Pros:
- Compatible with growing small to large cannabis plants
- Requires low water to keep your plants well-watered
- Offers a large water capacity
- Built from high-quality plastic materials to extend its lifespan
Cons:
- Requires high maintenance
- Not ideal for growing cannabis outdoors under extreme heat or freezing conditions
#8. SuperPonics Superponics-8 Hydroponic Plant Propagation Reservoir System
For hassle-free water changes, this is the hydroponic system that is ideal. It has an extra-long drip tube and a powerful pump that can keep your plants pumped up with enough nutrients. With a complete set of tools and equipment, unboxing and setting it up only takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It also has up to 4 gallons of capacity for water and nutrient solution which is enough especially for small plants.
Features and Specifications:
- Weighs 20 pounds with 18 x 11 x 11 inches dimension
- Automated top feeding, bubble, and AeroPonics combines with its deep water culture design for best results
- 1 air pump with 132 GPH connects the growing sites to its reservoir
- 2 air lines, 2 medium-sized barrel air stones, and a 24-hour timer
- Extra-long drain tube with its trademark flow gauge system connects with its top feed drip system
Pros:
- Hassle-free to set up and manage
- Allows an easier way to change its water when necessary
Cons:
- Can’t be extended and linked with more growing sites
Marijuana Hydroponic Systems: The Basics
First things first, did you know that the term “hydroponics” came from a Latin term which means “water working”? Coming from its name, the term “hydro” is enough to make you think of water. When it comes to horticulture, hydroponics is actually a form of agriculture wherein plants are planted and grown without soil. Instead, plants like cannabis are put in grow beds or trays that are supplied by a consistent flow of nutrients. So, a hydroponic system refers to all the tools and equipment that are used to grow hydroponic plants.
When it comes to marijuana hydroponic system, there are actually different versions that you can choose from when shopping. Right now, there are at least 6 main types of hydroponic systems that are used in growing marijuana. These types include:
- Nutrient Film Technique or NFT
- Aeroponics
- Ebb and Flow or Flood and Drain
- Drip Systems
- Deep Water Culture or DWC
- Wick Systems
Just like other products, each version has its own pros and cons. Each also has its own level of complexity that users might feel either as too complex to easy to operate. After all, we all have our own level of tolerance when it comes to setting up and managing things. Regardless, the best hydroponic system for growing cannabis really depends on your personal preference and needs. But if there is one thing in common about these types, it is its plants’ source of nutrients. Instead of using fertilizers in the soil, oxygen and all nutrients that are needed by plants are mixed in a reservoir.
These nutrients keep plants healthy until they reached their full growth potential faster:
- Nitrogen
- Calcium
- Phosphorous
- Iron
- Potassium
- Chlorine
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Boron
- Zinc
- Manganese
No matter what type of marijuana hydroponic system you use, you need a reservoir that contains a nutrient solution. All of these listed nutrients are placed underneath the system’s growing tray or pot. Then, the growing tray or pot is filled with a growth medium that can be gravel, sand, or Rockwool. These growth mediums help plants to absorb all the nutrients and oxygen it needs to grow its roots. Depending on the type of hydroponic system you use, you may need a small pump and a timer. These things will keep the bottom layer of the buckets filled with enough nutrient solution.
Once your plants are well-watered and fed with nutrients, the timer will automatically turn off the pump. This will also drain the solution back into the system’s reservoir.
Basic Overview of How to Grow Cannabis
When it comes to growing cannabis, the first thing that you should consider is its location. If you intend to keep your plants inside, it is best to invest in a decent tent. A grow tent can help your cannabis grow better and faster no matter what is the current weather. After all, it will not be one of those plants that will have to ensure the weather outside. A grow tent is also cost-effective and very much accessible solution so you will not have a hard time shopping. There are available grow tents offered in both land-based and online shops especially on Amazon. In some cases, grow tents already come with a complete package. This means that you can already buy everything you would need to air your plants’ growth in one package. If you are a novice, this would certainly be a great option so you can save time shopping. But if you already have all the needed tools except for a grow tent, you can buy a tent only. Some are designed with a single but spacious compartment while others are divided into small chambers. This works great when separating cloning from vegetative growth.
However, watch out for those that include expensive plastic materials that are not necessarily important for being an expert grower. In addition, this eliminates the need to buy another one when you can squeeze in everything inside a single grow tent. You will also need a grow light whether you place your cannabis is placed inside a grow tent or not. These lights may vary in size, color, and exact shapes to provide a sufficient amount of light even when indoors. Grow lights may also include a timer that can turn on and off it automatically. Aside from these things, you will also need an exhaust fan as well as an activated filter, and eliminate odors. Thus, it is best to look for a circulating fan that you can simply mount or clip on the wall. In some cases, you might also need a thermometer or a hygrometer that serve as your plants’ thermometer. If you don’t know where to get some marijuana seeds or even clones, you can start by buying it online. A lot of online shops nowadays offer marijuana seeds especially in Canada where it was already legalized. Once you’ve got your seeds and planted them, remember to avoid overwatering and overfeeding them. Lower your reflector closer to your plant then raise your lighting as they grow. Be sure to set your light and hydroponic system timer properly for best results.
Conclusion
There you have it! Whenever you’re ready to go and shop for the best hydroponic system for growing cannabis, just go back to this post. Regardless of the kind of hydroponic system you are looking for, these are the top choices on the market today. Coming from different brands with different weights and sizes, we’re sure that one or two will match your needs. This is the best solution to avoid overfeeding and overwatering your cannabis even without monitoring them 24/7.