Rack-Mount Hydroponics

19 hours ago

Started growing lettuce in a spare server cabinet due to having extra space and a desire to reduce computer usage.
Used a flood and drain (ebb and flow) hydroponic system with rockwool, perlite, and clay balls as growth mediums.
System involved short, frequent flood cycles to wet plant roots, with adjustable drainage to prevent overflow.
Encountered challenges like floating pots, solved by adding sterilized rocks for weight.
Initial setup included 18 hours of light and 4 flood cycles daily, adjusted to 2 cycles based on plant needs.
Used a mystery NPK 12-12-36 fertilizer without dosage info, starting with 20g for 30L of water.
Successfully grew lettuce and herbs, with minimal issues like water leakage occurring twice.
Project was more successful than expected, providing learning experiences and fresh salads despite its unconventional approach.

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