7 Mushroom Growing Kits

a. Hiitake Mushroom Growing Kit

Shiitake mushrooms are rich in umami flavor and commonly found in supermarkets. Shiitake mushroom substrate is made from organic rye grain, pacific northwest red alder, and pure shiitake mushroom. Preparing the shiitake is easy; all you need to do is follow the instructions on the label.

b. Pink Oyster Mushroom Growing Kit

This mushroom kit produces beautiful oyster mushrooms with a beautiful pink shade. The kit contains all equipment necessary to grow the mushroom easily. The kit contains a sawdust block colonized by pink oyster mushroom mycelium that you place in a humid environment and spray twice daily.

c. White Button Mushroom Growing Kit

This kit is bigger than other mushroom growing kits and weighs 15 pounds. Manufacturers claim that it produces up to four pounds of white button mushrooms, a higher yield than other variants. It is more interactive than other growing kits and contains instructions on how to grow and care for the mushrooms.

d. Backyard Morel Mushroom Growing Kit

This kit requires lots of patience and takes almost two growing seasons to produce mushrooms. It is one of the most priced; however, it also produces lots of mushrooms.

Buying this kit doesn’t guarantee that you’ll grow more mushrooms and can be a gamble whether the mushrooms will fruit.

e. North Spore’s Mushroom Kit

This new mushroom kit is great for beginners. The kit doesn’t come with a log; instead, you should grow it in a bed of wood chips and sawdust. You could grow these mushrooms outside if you wanted, and they’ll grow for over a few years. The mushrooms taste best when cooked.

f. Smallhold Oyster Mushroom Grow Kit

This kit is best for beginners and includes a block that forms a foundation for your mushroom colony. The mushroom grows within 7-9 days and will be ready to harvest.

You should mist the block daily; however, you should take care not to water them directly. You can harvest the mushrooms easily with a simple twist, and they taste great when cooked.

g. Field And Forest Lion Mane Tabletop Farm

This kit produces delicious mushrooms that you can easily grow. The kit produces 1.75 pounds of mushrooms that grow well better 65-75F.

They thrive in a basement setting and should be kept from direct sunlight. You should mist the mushrooms twice or thrice daily and expect to harvest them within 7-9 days.

Hydroponics Store Near Me

Hydroponic gardening allows you to create the perfect growing environment for your plant. There’s no need of Mother Nature getting involved when all that is needed are some nutrients and light! To start this process off right, be sure find a store with plenty in stock such as these 13 top-rated hydroponics retailers today:

1. HTGSUPPLY (abhdfh.com)

HTGSupply has a dedicated team of professionals who can help you build a hydroponic system and add equipment to the setup. They understand each element of your grow room – from soil to seeds. This online store offers drip irrigation equipment, air pumps, water pumps, sprayers, etc. In addition, they sell hydroponic containers for plants – buckets, water reservoirs, food tables, etc. No matter what you want, HTGSupply guarantees a quick turnaround and exceptional customer service.

2. HYDROBUILDER

Hydrobuilder offers a large selection of grow lights, ventilation systems, grow tents, plant nutrients, and more. It was established in 2011 as an online store but later became the largest supplier of hydroponics. More recently, the retailer acquired Way to Grow and Home Grown Ventures Nutrients. One thing that makes Hydrobuilder unique is the quick turnaround. Once you place an order it’s processed within 24 hours. The shipping starts the following day.

3. GROWERSHOUSE

GrowersHouse is the world’s largest supplier of indoor gardening supplies. It’s headquartered in Arizona and offers everything you need from seed to harvesting. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a commercial grower, these professionals strive to give their customers the best service.

4. GROWGENERATION

GrowGeneration is the largest hydroponics supplier, with over 63 retail distribution centers. They offer thousands of products like advanced lighting technology, nutrients, and soils. Furthermore, the store is armed with professional consultants to help you manage any project size. Even better, the store has partnered with the biggest names in the industry and offers equipment financing.

That’s not all. The commercial team offers on-site project consultations, cultivation room designs, and turnkey facility designs. They also provide shipping directly to your farm.

5. ZENHYDRO

Zenhydro is an online store with over 25,000 plus products. Being your one-stop solution for hydroponic products, you can be sure you’ll get the best supplies online. In addition, they offer a range of products from over 1000 brands. The team is dedicated to helping you break the limitations of traditional agriculture. Once you make an order, you can track it to know its status.

If you order your hydroponic products and you’re not satisfied with the returns, you can return them to get what you want. There’s no compromise when it comes to customer satisfaction. Of course, you’ll always know about new arrivals and hot deals.

6. DOMYOWN

DoMyOwn offers an assortment of supplies to help you grow plants in different locations and climates. It was established in 2004 as a pest control company before making hydroponics their mainstream business. They offer plenty of options for grow tents, nutrients, and grow lights. The team is focused on giving the best customer service.

7. GROWACE

GrowAce is a reputable supplier of indoor hydroponic gardening equipment. They offer the highest quality grow lights, climate control products, grow tents, and nutrients. In addition, the customer service team is trained in all aspects of indoor growing. If you’re a novice indoor gardener, they will advise you on the strategy and products that best suit your needs. At GrowAce, you’ll find all the biggest names like Gorilla Grow Tents, California Lights, King COB, Yield Lab, Kind LED, and Oxygen Pot Systems. The online store will ensure you get more at guaranteed low prices.

8. DEALZER

Dealzer offers an assortment of products to suit your indoor needs like grow boxes, grow tents, LED grow lights, etc. If you don’t know how to get started, a knowledgeable team will guide you. They offer fast shipping and have a variety of financing options.

9. MONSTER GARDENS

The Monster Gardens will never let you fail. They have a dedicated team of professionals who are ready to provide the highest level of customer service. The team strives to provide detailed product information, professional service, and unbeatable pricing.

The online store prides itself on carrying a wide selection of inventories. They boast of more than three decades of combined experience, so you can be sure to get everything for your gardening needs. Monster Gardens is technologically oriented. They continue to post new videos on products to ensure you make an informed purchase.

10. BETTERGROW HYDRO

BetterGrow Hydro offers the best indoor growing supplies at unbeatable prices. With more than 25 years of experience, you can be sure you’re working with a reputable team. Unlike other stores that only sell grow lights and supplies, BGH is determined to ensure your hydroponics experience is a successful one.

BetterGrow Hydro is dedicated to giving customers what they need to become successful growers – and that is priceless.

Why choose BGH? They offer over 5000 products to meet your gardening needs. Once you place an order, it’s processed within a day. Needless to say, you get the best prices on products.

11. INDOOR GARDENS

Indoor Gardens boasts over 30 years of experience in indoor gardening – it serves Ohio and New York. As a commercial grower, they have everything you need for your hydroponics farm.

Since opening its doors in 1992, the store has established itself as a leader in indoor gardening. They carry a selection of the best organic gardening supplies, hydroponic systems, plant nutrients, grow lights, environmental controllers, and more. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, the dedicated team of professionals is available to answer any questions you may have.

The mission of Indoor gardens is simple – to provide customers with the best service on the industry’s top products. Even better, the showrooms give you the ability to see what is on offer before you make the purchase.

12. SIMPLY HYDROPONICS

Simply Hydroponics offers top-quality products and an assortment of accessories. They provide the best grow lights, PH controls, organic nutrients, propagation supplies, pest controls, and more. You can’t find these gardening supplies anywhere else.

The online store offers free system plans that allow you to build hydroponics with inexpensive materials. Depending on your needs, you can grow herbs, flowers, and other quality products. To place your order, just click on the online gardening store catalog to begin your shopping adventure.

13. ACE HARDWARE

Ace Hardware offers everything you need for your hydroponics farming. You can explore different setups – from herbs to hydroponic greenhouse. The hydroponic supplies and equipment will help you set up a fresh garden in no time. You can order starter plugs, seed pot kits, and everything you need to make indoor gardening easy.

Hydroponic Gardening Supplies

You may think that hydroponic gardening is reserved for advanced gardeners or commercial farmers, but that isn’t the case. You can rely on this soil-less method of farming for staple food. All you need to know is the right supplies for hydroponic gardening. Below are must have supplies for hydroponic gardening:

1. Support Structure

There are two main reasons why you’ll require a support structure. You can use a section of wire mesh or basket to support the growing plants. On the other hand, you’ll require a vessel for your plant roots to suspend into. Before deciding on a suitable support structure, determine the size of your garden and the type of the plant. Always ensure you create an enclosure that’ll reduce the rate of moisture evaporation.

2. Water Pump

Unlike the wicking system, a hydroponic gardening system requires a water pump. When it comes to this mode of farming, a water pump is the only machine that you’ll need to grow your plants. You can secure a high-quality water pump at a budget-friendly price. Other factors that you should consider when choosing the right water pump for your hydroponic garden include GPM discharge capacity, type of water pump, maximum head lift, and vertical suction lift.

3. Nutrient Solution

The nutrient solution is a fundamental item that you’ll need in your hydroponic garden. Choose a nutrient solution that suits the type of plants you intend to grow. In addition, ensure you pick a high-end solution. The quality of a nutrient solution determines its longevity.

4. pH Testing Kit

In a hydroponic system, plants are submerged in water; therefore, it’s important to determine the pH level. Low pH level is associated with various signs and symptoms of plants. Some of these signs include leaf necrosis, stunted growth, blossom end rot, leaf chlorosis, brown spots on leaves, twisted leaves, and withered leaves. Different types of plants require different pH levels. Approximately, most plants will flourish in an environment with 6.0 to 7.0 pH levels.

5. Aeration

Aeration is an important aspect that determines the growth and development of plants. Based on science, plants rely on good air circulation to survive. Therefore, use the right aeration method to ensure there’s enough oxygen in the nutrient solution. For smaller hydroponic garden systems, empty and refill the container with the solution. On the other hand, use an air bubbler for larger systems. Air bubbler will play a vital role in improving oxygen in the nutrient solution.

6. Aggregate

There’s an array of materials that can be used as aggregate in a hydroponic gardening system. Some of the common types of hydroponic aggregates include perlite, wood shavings, gravel, sand, vermiculite, Rockwool, and peat moss. Hydroponic aggregates don’t enrich the solution. In addition, choose a suitable aggregate that will provide support to the growing plants.

7. Seedlings or Plants

Plants or seedlings are the most important factors to consider when designing a hydroponic gardening system. Some of the things you should consider when deciding on the right seedlings or plants include the size of the seedlings, the size of your structure, and environmental conditions. If you’re a newbie in hydroponic gardening, consider planting seedlings rather than sowing.

8. Water Reservoir

A hydroponic gardening system requires a water reservoir to store water and nutrient solutions. Choose a water reservoir that will suit your needs. There are certain aspects you should consider when buying a water reservoir, such as the size of the water reservoir, the purpose of the water tank, the material of the reservoir, the capacity of the water tank, and the size of the storage space.

9. Light

Hydroponic gardening systems are ideal for both outdoor and indoor. Light is an essential aspect that supports the growth and development of plants. Therefore, you should invest in artificial light, especially if you’re opting for an indoor garden. You can either use incandescent or fluorescent bulbs as long as they provide enough light from the blue and red range of the visible light spectrum.

10. Container

Regardless of the type of hydroponic gardening system, you’ll need a container to hold the nutrient solution. Many homemade hydroponic systems use water troughs, storage containers, and kiddie pools. The material of the container is a key aspect to consider. Ensure you choose a material that’ll block light. In addition, the material of the container should be watertight.

11. Tubing

Currently, tubes are inexpensive and easy to find. This is because there’s stiff competition in the plumbing industry. The main purpose of the tube is to move water and nutrient solution from the reservoir to the root basin. Choose tubes with appropriate diameters. In addition, ensure your tubes are perfectly fitted to reduce the risk of leakages. Below are some of the factors that you should consider when choosing tubes for hydroponic gardening:

– Compound compatibility

– Tubing material

– Air permeability

– Kink resistance

– Cost

– suitability for implantation

Conclusion

Other essential supplies include a growing medium. If you’re opting for the hydroponic gardening system, invest in the above-mentioned supplies. Based on research, there are numerous benefits of hydroponic gardening, such as fewer chemicals, saving space, water conservation, growing indoors, healthier plants, faster growth, nutrient control, no weeds, no soil erosion, and bigger yields.

General Hydroponics Nutrients List

It doesn’t matter if you are doing traditional farming or hydroponics, the plants will still need nutrients to grow and flourish. In this article, you will learn a couple of the most crucial macro and micronutrients that are essential for hydroponic plant growth.

Macronutrients

Below are the nutrients that most plants require in large quantities. As a hydroponic grower, these are the nutrients that you should focus on the most.

* Nitrogen – nitrogen is, without a shadow of a doubt, the element that is regarded to be the most vital among all of the nutrients. It is mainly responsible for the vegetative growth of plants, including the stems, leaves, and even color. It also largely helps in the development of cell wall proteins, co-enzymes, amino acids, and chlorophyll.

Nitrogen is often used in large quantities throughout the development stages of plants, which occur before the plants begin producing fruits or flowers. Because plants might develop a high need for nitrogen at certain times of the year, nitrogen is often included in hydroponics nutrient solutions.

Leaves that are yellow in color are a telltale sign of nitrogen deficiency in plants. The impacts of nitrogen deficiency will be first exhibited by the lower and older leaves. And, these are the leaves that will be among the first to fall off.

On the other hand, it is more difficult to spot the signs of nitrogen toxicity in plants when they have an overabundance of nitrogen. Your plants may still have a healthy and verdant appearance, but they have a much-reduced capacity to produce fruit and flowers. This is due to the fact that plants are using all of their energy for the production of foliage.

* Phosphorus – this one is another nutrient that is essential for plant growth. It is a fundamental constituent of the plant’s genetic make-up (DNA). As a result, it plays a very significant role in the development of tissues as well as the division of cells. It also plays a major role in roots, seeds, fruits, and flower development.

When your plants are in the flowering, germination, and early seedling stage, they will need a significant quantity of phosphorus. However, plants will often need it throughout their whole life cycle.

Phosphorus deficiency in plants may be recognized by decreased plant growth. Additionally, the leaves, roots, and flowers may be excessively fragile.

Conversely, an excessive amount of phosphorus has a negative impact on plants because it prevents them from absorbing various essential elements such as zinc, magnesium, iron, copper, and calcium. Therefore, the inadequacies of these elements will be exhibited.

* Potassium – potassium is a crucial nutrient for plants and is essential in high enough quantities for plants to successfully grow and reproduce. Plants cannot simply survive without potassium.

Potassium, unlike other nutrients, does not produce other compounds in plants. Nevertheless, it does contribute to the stimulation of a range of essential activities, such as enzyme activation, protein synthesis, starch production, and photosynthesis.

Yellowing of the leaves is often the first sign that a plant needs more potassium.

On the other hand, plants would be unable to react with other elements, such as magnesium, iron, and zinc, when they have an excessive amount of potassium in their systems.

* Calcium – this nutrient is an essential component in the growth and creation of cells. If there is not enough calcium, the edges and tips of the leaves will go brown and may even die.

If there is an excess of calcium while the plant is young, it might limit its development.

* Sulfur – a structural component that is present in two of the twenty-one amino acids that are necessary to build protein. Additionally, it contributes to the activation and formation of a number of vitamins and enzymes.

* Magnesium – among the chemical components that make up chlorophyll is magnesium. Through the process of photosynthesis, magnesium contributes to the production of oxygen. It is frequently utilized in significant doses in plants that grow rapidly.

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are still needed by plants if you are doing hydroponics. However, the plants usually require it in smaller doses compared to the macronutrients.

* Zinc – chlorophyll production and other types of plant engines require a good amount of zinc. It also plays a major role in nitrogen metabolism.

* Boron – together with calcium, boron is an essential component for the functions and structure of the plant cell membranes. In addition to this, it is beneficial to seed production and pollination.

* Iron – it is a component of numerous enzymes that are involved in the process of providing energy and nitrogen fixation. It also plays a role in the process of photosynthesis. Additionally, it is a necessary component in the production of chlorophyll.

* Manganese – a nutrient that acts as a catalyst for the plant’s growth process. During photosynthesis, it also contributes to the formation of oxygen.

Hydroponic Nutrients – The Basics

Because you are cultivating plants without using soil, you will not be able to take advantage of the many nutrients that are found in soil. Hydroponic nutrients, when combined with water, are intended to the fulfill micronutrient and macronutrient needs.

So, what precisely is included in a hydroponic nutrient bottle?

When you are looking through the various bottles of nutrients, the first thing that will stand out to you is a set of three numbers that are written on the front of each bottle.

This model is referred to as the “N-P-K ratio.” The is the nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio.

The NPK ratio provides precise information on the amounts of all three macronutrients that are present in the bottle. When you see the numbers 9-9-9 on a bottle, it indicates that the liquid within contains 9% nitrogen, and 9%phosphorus, and 9% potassium.

You may notice that this only adds up to 27%. So, what makes up the remaining 73%? In most cases, the remainder of the solution is composed of water, micronutrients, and various additional chelating agents.

Wrapping It All Up

This article has enumerated some of the essential macro and micronutrients. Although the list is not complete, it should give you a good foundation for further education in this subject.

Hydroponics Soil

It is worth noting that in hydroponics, although you heavily rely on water to grow the plants, you will also need a growing medium. The growing media will be the one to support the weight of the plant. It is also where the plant will anchor its root structure. You cannot just submerge the root in the water. They need something to hold onto. The growing media also help in providing moisture and oxygen to the plants. This is why choosing a growing media for your hydroponics system is very crucial. You need one that best suit your needs and wants. Need help? This article will give you the best soil types and brands for hydroponics so you have lots of options to choose from.

Best Soil Types and Brands for Hydroponics

There are over 10 different types of hydroponics medium that are available at your disposal. Always remember that the right medium for you will depend on the scale, design, and location of your hydroponic system. Check for all the features of the growing medium that you like and see if it really suits your needs and wants. For now, we bring you the different soil types for hydroponics. In addition to that, we’ll also give you the best brand to go for in each growing media. So, let’s start!

1. Perlite

Perlites are granular material that is lightweight and white in color. Although they look like bits of polystyrene they actually come from volcanoes. Perlites are made from volcanic glass that is heated at a temperature of 1000 degrees C. The volcanic glass will then expand and pops like popcorns resulting in perlites. This growing media is very well known for being lightweight, easy to handle, sterile, and long-lasting. It also consists of silicon dioxide, water, magnesium oxide, iron oxide, aluminum oxide, and calcium oxide. These minerals are all beneficial to your plants. Perlites also provide excellent root aeration. Just one downside of this growing media is that it floats making it easy to be washed away. When it comes to the best brand of perlites in the market, you should consider going for the ESPOMA ORGANIC PERLITE (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Y0AK6S).

2. Coco Coir

Coco coir is widely used in gardening. In traditional agriculture, farmers put coco coir or coco peat to fertilize the soil. Coconut coir is made from coconut husk. It’s that brown thing that surrounds the coconut shell. What makes it the best soil type for hydroponic is it is organic and inert. It also holds water very well. It will also save your plant from drowning because of its good air-to-water ratio. Because coco coir is highly organic, it is environmentally friendly and is also renewable, and can easily be found. Just one downside to this is that it doesn’t drain well so you have to mix it with other growing media like clay pellets which will be discussed later on. The best brand for coco coir is none other than PLANTONIX COCO BLISS PREMIUM (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086Z67H9G).

3. Expanded Clay Pellets

Expanded clay pellets are another popular growing media in hydroponics. They are also known as LECA or lightweight expanded clay aggregate. They are a result of expanding clay to form round balls of porous material. These pellets provide almost no nutrients to the plants. They are pH neutral and ensure that there is a good balance of oxygen and water. This way, the roots will not drown. Expanded clay pellets are lightweight but heavy enough to support the plant. The benefits of using expanded clay pellets include being reusable and effective in draining water. Disadvantages of using them include poor moisture retention and high price. When it comes to the best brand for expanded clay pellets go for GROW!T CLAY PEBBLES (https://www.amazon.com/Hydroton-Original-Clay-Pebbles-Lightweight/dp/B01KYYZ9IE).

4. Rockwool

Rockwool is the most commonly used hydroponic growing medium all around the world. It is also another growing medium that comes from volcanoes. It is a mixture of volcanic rock, limestone, and coke, These three are melted together at a high temperature. After that, the end result is spun into cotton candy-like fibers. It is then cooled and woven into blocks. Rockwool is best known for providing excellent water retention and root aeration. With all these benefits, expect Rockwool to come at a high price. They also are non-biodegradable and are not that easy to dispose of. They are of high pH so you need to soak them first before using them. This way you also avoid irritation due to its fibers and dust. If you want to avoid irritation you can wear protective gear such as a dust mask, goggles, and gloves. These three are actually highly recommended when dealing with Rockwool. They are reusable which is another great aspect of Rockwool. In fact, they can be used for several years if handled with care. If you want to buy Rockwool from Amazon go for the brand GRODAN ROCKWOOL (https://www.amazon.com/GRODAN-Rockwool-Stonewool-Hydroponic-Starter/dp/B016AXFAY6).

5. Oasis Cubes

Oasis cubes are like that of Rockwell but a much less expensive option. They also don’t need presoaking, unlike Rockwool. This is indeed a good option for your health and for the health of your plants as well. However, there are disadvantages when using oasis cubes. They are not sustainable, not organic, and are only effective in germination. This means oasis cubes are not mainly used as a growing medium. They are only used as a starting place for the seedlings. Oasis cubes are made from floral foam. This is then designed like a sheet. Each cube has the right amount of nutrients, air, and water needed by the plant to thrive. Oasis cubes are great for retaining water and air. You can find OASIS CUBES on Amazon by clicking this LINK (https://www.amazon.com/Oasis-Horticubes-Cubes-104ct-Sheet/dp/B079V19MWS).