What are the features that you should look for when buying a hydroponic system?

Question

I'm interested in growing strawberries using hydroponics. I have read up and understand that there are several types of hydroponic systems, like deep water cultivation, ebb and flow, aeroponic, and drip feed, etc. What qualities or features should I look for when buying a hydroponic system? I'm a beginner and would like to keep the cost low.

Answer 1

If you are a beginner and are looking for the cheapest setup I would just say do it yourself. Build something from scratch from an online tutorial. Instructables has numerous tutorials on different setups and the costs associated to them.

I found that the Hydroponics at Home and for Beginners article may be right down your alley. Also the Hydroponic Food Factory has been used to grow strawberries (based on images posted).

If price is a greater factor than the actual process maybe you would like a new home project.

Answer 2

Check out the Backyard Aquaponics Forum - it's not exactly hydroponics but it is a great resource and a lot of the principles carry over. The DIY section is awesome there and the community is great too!