Basin and lid, air pump, silicone hose, buoy and buoy deck, 11 planting baskets, 11 planting sponges, tweezers
Not included
Seeds, nutrient solution
Cover
Light blocking basin cover and baskets, to slow algae growth
Level indicator
Buoy through the deck shows the solution level without opening the lid
Shipping & returns
Tracked standard delivery anywhere in Ireland. It is free on orders of €50 or more, and a flat €22 below that. Allow 5 to 7 days after a 24 to 48 hour handling time.
Under the European Union (Consumer Information, Cancellation and Other Rights) Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 484/2013) you have 14 days from delivery to tell us you want to cancel, and a further 14 days to send the item back in its original condition and packaging. There is no cancellation, restocking, service, packing or handling fee, and your refund includes the standard delivery charge. You cover return postage when you change your mind. Faulty, damaged or incorrect goods are a separate matter under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 and come back at our cost.
If it arrives faulty, damaged, incomplete or simply not what you ordered, we arrange the return at our cost and put it right. This does not affect your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 and the European Union (Consumer Information, Cancellation and Other Rights) Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 484/2013).
Empty and rinse the basin between crops. Pull the air stone and hose off and flush them through. No detergent, since anything left behind goes into the next nutrient solution.
11 Planting SitesEnough for a standing herb and salad supply
Air Pump IncludedKeeps the solution oxygenated so roots do not drown
Sits On A WorktopOne tub, no plumbing and nothing to install
Water Level BuoyRead the level without opening the lid
About this product
The same eleven cup system, found a different way.
A hydroponic planter for herbs and salad on a worktop, with the air pump and everything else in the box.
A hydroponic planter for the kitchen: eleven sites of herbs or salad in a single tub, with the air pump, baskets, sponges and tweezers in the box.
This is the same eleven cup system we list as a deep water culture kit. It has two pages because people look for it two different ways, and we would rather say that than pretend otherwise.
As a kitchen planter, the appeal is that it is one object. There is no channel to run, nothing to fix to a wall and no plumbing. It sits on a worktop or a windowsill, you fill it, and the air pump does the work.
Eleven sites is the right amount for herbs. Basil, coriander, parsley, mint and a few lettuces will keep a kitchen supplied without becoming a second job.
Cutting herbs from a living plant a metre from the chopping board is a different thing from buying a bag that wilts in three days, and that is really what this is for.
It is a deep water culture system, which means the roots sit in aerated solution rather than in a flowing stream. Nothing circulates, so there is very little to go wrong.
Still deciding?
Not sure yet? That is fine.
Under the European Union (Consumer Information, Cancellation and Other Rights) Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 484/2013) you have 14 days from delivery to tell us you want to cancel, and a further 14 days to send the item back in its original condition and packaging. There is no cancellation, restocking, service, packing or handling fee, and your refund includes the standard delivery charge. You cover return postage when you change your mind. Faulty, damaged or incorrect goods are a separate matter under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 and come back at our cost.
If it turns up faulty, damaged, incomplete or simply not what you ordered, it is on us: we arrange the return at our cost and sort it out directly. Tell us as soon as you notice. The full detail is on our refunds and returns page, and you can ask us anything before you order.
IS THIS THE SAME AS THE DEEP WATER CULTURE SYSTEM YOU ALSO SELL?
Yes. It is the same eleven cup system, at the same price, with the same contents. It has two pages because people look for it two different ways: some search for a deep water culture system, others for a hydroponic planter or herb garden. Buy it from whichever page you found.
WHAT IS A HYDROPONIC PLANTER?
A container that grows plants in nutrient solution instead of soil. This one holds eleven plants in baskets suspended above the water, with an air pump keeping the solution oxygenated.
WHAT COMES IN THE BOX?
The basin and lid, an air pump, a silicone hose, a buoy and buoy deck, 11 planting baskets, 11 planting sponges and tweezers. You add seeds and nutrient solution.
WHAT HERBS GROW WELL IN IT?
Basil, coriander, parsley, mint, chives and dill all do well. Basil in particular is happier in a hydroponic planter than most people expect, because it never dries out between waterings.
CAN I GROW SALAD AS WELL AS HERBS?
Yes. Lettuce, rocket and spinach all suit it. You can mix them, though it is easier if the plants sharing a tub want similar conditions and grow at roughly the same rate.
WHERE SHOULD I PUT IT?
Somewhere with good light and access to a socket for the pump. A bright worktop or a deep windowsill is ideal. Direct all day sun is worth avoiding: it warms the solution and encourages algae wherever light gets in.
DOES IT NEED A GROW LIGHT?
In a bright kitchen in summer, often not. In winter, or in a room without a good window, yes. Herbs get leggy and pale when they are short of light, which is usually the first sign.
HOW MUCH LOOKING AFTER DOES IT NEED?
Top up the water when the buoy drops, change the solution every two to three weeks, and cut the herbs regularly. That is genuinely most of it.
WHY IS THERE AN AIR PUMP?
Because roots need oxygen. In still water they run out and the plant drowns. The pump bubbles air through the solution and keeps enough oxygen dissolved to prevent that.
IS THE PUMP NOISY IN A KITCHEN?
It hums quietly, like a small aquarium. Standing it on a cloth or a mat rather than a hard worktop takes most of the buzz out of it.
MY PUMP DOES NOT SEEM TO BE PUMPING. WHAT IS WRONG?
Check the blue valve. It fits one way round and backwards it tries to draw air rather than push it in. Turning it over is usually the whole fix. Weak bubbles rather than none usually means a blocked air stone.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO ADD WATER?
The buoy shows the level through the deck, so you can see it at a glance without lifting the lid and disturbing the roots.
WHAT NUTRIENT SOLUTION SHOULD I BUY?
A general hydroponic nutrient for leafy greens and herbs. Follow the dilution on the bottle. Making it stronger does not make plants grow faster; it usually does the opposite.
HOW OFTEN DO I CHANGE THE SOLUTION?
Every two to three weeks, topping up with plain water in between. If growth slows or the leaves lose colour, a full change is the first thing to try.
DO I NEED TO TEST THE pH?
It is not essential to get started, and it is the single thing that most improves results. Herbs and leafy greens like roughly 5.5 to 6.5. A pH pen costs very little.
HOW DO I START SEEDS?
Most people germinate seeds separately and move the seedling into a sponge once it has a root, using the tweezers supplied. Our seed starter trays are designed for that stage.
DO THE SPONGES GET REUSED?
No. They are the growing medium and are used up with each crop. Eleven come in the box, which covers the first planting.
HOW LONG UNTIL I CAN CUT SOMETHING?
Salad leaves in about a month from planting, herbs a little longer before they are worth cutting from regularly. It depends on the crop and the light.
WILL IT GROW TOMATOES OR CHILLIES?
Not well. Eleven shallow sites suit leafy crops and herbs. Fruiting plants get heavy, want more root room and need supporting, which is not what this planter is built for.
HOW DO I STOP THE WATER GOING GREEN?
Keep light off it. The lid and baskets are made to block light, so the main thing is not leaving it open and not standing it in strong direct sun with a gap showing.
CAN I MOVE IT ONCE IT IS PLANTED?
Only carefully. It is a tub of water with plants suspended in it, so it is heavy when full and the roots dislike being sloshed. Choose where it lives before you fill it.
HOW DO I CLEAN IT BETWEEN CROPS?
Empty it, rinse the basin, and flush the hose and air stone. Leave the detergent out: whatever stays behind goes into the next batch of solution.
CAN I LEAVE IT WHILE I AM ON HOLIDAY?
About a week is fine if it is full when you go. There is no channel to run dry, so it is more forgiving than a flowing system, but the plants still drink.
HOW MUCH ELECTRICITY DOES THE PUMP USE?
Very little. It is a small air pump running continuously. A grow light, if you add one, will use much more than the pump does.
IS IT SAFE AROUND CHILDREN AND PETS?
It is an open tub of water with a mains powered pump, so treat it as you would a small aquarium: lid on, cable managed, and the nutrient bottle kept out of reach.
CAN I RUN TWO OF THEM?
Yes, and it is a reasonable way to scale up while keeping things simple, since each tub is independent. If you find yourself wanting a third, the 36 cup kit is the more sensible step.
HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM THE 36 CUP KIT?
The 36 cup kit is nutrient film technique: a pump moves a stream of solution through channels, and it holds three times as many plants. This is a single aerated tub with nothing flowing. Simpler, smaller, and easier to live with in a kitchen.
IS THE PLASTIC FOOD SAFE?
The cover and baskets are specified as light blocking, which is what the supplier states about the material. We do not have a food contact certificate to publish, so rather than imply one, ask us and we will put it to the supplier.
HOW IS IT DELIVERED?
Tracked standard delivery across Ireland takes 5 to 7 days after a 24 to 48 hour handling time. It is free on orders of €50 or more and otherwise costs €22.
WHAT IF SOMETHING IS MISSING FROM THE BOX?
Tell us and we will put it right. Check the contents against the list when it arrives rather than on the day you plant it.
Where can I find more information on running a successful Hydroponic Herb Garden?
Resources include online forums, gardening blogs, manufacturer's websites, and hydroponic gardening books, offering comprehensive guides and community support.
Can I use a Hydroponic Grow Kit for commercial production?
While designed for home use, multiple units can scale up for small-scale commercial herb and vegetable production.
What is the lifespan of a Hydroponic Planter system?
With proper care, systems can last several years. Durable materials and regular maintenance extend the lifespan of pumps and other components.
How do Hydroponic Herb Gardens affect plant flavor?
Many growers report enhanced flavors in hydroponically grown herbs, attributed to controlled nutrient uptake and optimal growing conditions.
What advancements are in Hydroponic Grow Kits technology?
Innovations include app-controlled nutrient and water delivery, LED grow lights with adjustable spectra, and self-cleaning systems for easier maintenance.
Can I mix different plant types in a Hydroponic Planter?
Yes, but ensure they have similar light and nutrient requirements for cohabitation without competing excessively for resources.
Are Hydroponic Herb Gardens noisy?
Most systems are quiet, though you may hear a slight hum from the air or water pump, which is generally not disruptive.
How do I troubleshoot problems in my Hydroponic Grow Kit?
Common issues like nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances can be addressed by following the kit's guide or seeking advice from hydroponic communities online.
What is the best Hydroponic Planter for growing tomatoes?
Look for systems with larger water reservoirs and strong support structures, as tomatoes require more space and nutrients to thrive.
Can children learn from using a Hydroponic Herb Garden?
Absolutely, it's an excellent educational tool for teaching children about plant growth, nutrition, and sustainable gardening practices.
How do Hydroponic Grow Kits save space?
Their compact, vertical design allows you to grow more plants in a smaller footprint, making them perfect for small apartments or homes.
Do I need to use special water for my Hydroponic Planter?
Using filtered or distilled water is recommended to avoid minerals and chemicals in tap water that could affect plant growth.
Can Hydroponic Herb Gardens help with indoor air quality?
Yes, by increasing humidity and oxygen levels, and some plants can even remove toxins from the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
How often should I change the water in a Hydroponic Grow Kit?
Water should be changed every 2-4 weeks, with regular checks for nutrient concentration and pH levels to ensure plant health.
What makes Hydroponic Planters environmentally friendly?
They use significantly less water than traditional gardening, prevent runoff, and eliminate the need for chemical pesticides.
Are there organic options for Hydroponic Herb Gardens?
Organic nutrient solutions are available and they work perfectly well without soil. Describing the crop as organic when you sell it is a separate matter and needs registration with an approved organic control body in Ireland.
How energy-efficient are Hydroponic Grow Kits?
Kits designed with LED lighting and low-power pumps are highly energy-efficient, reducing the environmental footprint of your gardening activities.
What size Hydroponic Planter do I need?
Size depends on your space and what you plan to grow; smaller planters are great for herbs, while larger systems can accommodate vegetables.
Can I grow vegetables in a Hydroponic Herb Garden?
Yes, besides herbs, you can grow leafy greens and small vegetables, making these systems versatile for various edible plants.
Do Hydroponic Grow Kits come with everything needed to start?
Most kits include all necessary components like the reservoir, pump, growing medium, and sometimes seeds or nutrient solutions.
How long does it take to harvest from a Hydroponic Planter?
Harvest times can be quicker than soil-based gardening, with some herbs ready in as little as 4-6 weeks from planting.
What are the benefits of using a Hydroponic Herb Garden?
Benefits include year-round growing, efficient water use, faster herb growth, and the elimination of soil-borne pests and diseases.
Can a Hydroponic Grow Kit be used outdoors?
Many Hydroponic Grow Kits are versatile enough for outdoor use, provided they are protected from extreme weather conditions.
How do I maintain my Hydroponic Planter?
Maintain by regularly checking water levels, replenishing nutrient solutions, and ensuring the system's pump and lights (if included) are functioning properly.
Do Hydroponic Herb Gardens require natural sunlight?
While natural sunlight is beneficial, many kits come with grow lights, allowing you to cultivate herbs indoors regardless of natural light availability.
What is the average cost of a Hydroponic Grow Kit?
The cost varies from basic models to advanced systems with features like LED lights and automated nutrient delivery.
Are Hydroponic Planters suitable for beginners?
Yes, Hydroponic Planters are user-friendly, making them an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore soilless gardening with minimal effort.
What can I grow in a Hydroponic Herb Garden?
In a Hydroponic Herb Garden, you can grow various herbs like basil, mint, cilantro, and parsley, offering fresh flavors right from your kitchen or balcony.
How does a Hydroponic Grow Kit work?
A Hydroponic Grow Kit circulates a nutrient-rich water solution to plant roots, providing all necessary growth elements, enabling faster and healthier plant development.
The complete guide
Buying Guide
6 min readHydroponics Company
The same system, found a different way
We should say this plainly at the top. This is the same eleven cup system that
also appears on this site as a deep water culture kit. Same contents, same price,
same tub.
It has two pages because people arrive looking for two different things. Some
search for a deep water culture system, knowing the method they want. Others
search for a hydroponic planter, a grow kit or a herb garden, because what they
want is herbs in the kitchen and the method is a detail.
Both descriptions are accurate. It seemed better to say so than to dress the same
product up as two.
What it does on a worktop
One tub, a lid, eleven baskets and an air pump. Nothing to plumb in, nothing to
fix to a wall, nothing to install. You fill it, plant it and give it light.
The air pump is the working part. Roots need oxygen as well as water, and in
still water they run out. The bubbles keep enough dissolved oxygen in the
solution for the roots to keep going.
Herbs are the honest use case
Eleven sites is a good match for a kitchen. Basil, coriander, parsley, mint,
chives, and a few lettuces alongside. That is a standing supply you cut from,
rather than a harvest you process.
Basil does particularly well, mostly because it never dries out between
waterings, which is how most kitchen basil dies.
What it will not do is tomatoes or chillies. Those get heavy, want more root room
and need support. Eleven shallow sites are not built for them.
Keeping it easy
Top up when the buoy drops. Change the solution every two or three weeks. Cut
regularly, because herbs left uncut go leggy.
If the pump ever looks dead, check the blue valve before anything else. It fits
one way round, and backwards it tries to pull air instead of pushing it. That is
almost always the answer.
Hydroponic Planter, 11 Cup Home System (pick code 11-cup-system) sold by
Hydroponics Company at nfthydroponics.irish/product/home-hydroponic-system.
An 11 site deep water culture hydroponic planter for herbs and salad, also searched as a
hydroponic grow kit or hydroponic herb garden. Price is €99. Supplied with the basin
and lid, an air pump, silicone hose, a buoy and buoy deck showing the solution level, 11
planting baskets, 11 planting sponges and tweezers. Seeds and nutrient solution are NOT
included. This is the SAME physical system listed at
/product/deep-water-culture-hydroponic-system; it has two pages because customers search
for it both as a deep water culture system and as a hydroponic planter or herb garden,
and both pages say so. It suits basil, coriander, parsley, mint, lettuce and other leafy
crops on a worktop or windowsill. Delivery is Ireland wide, free on orders over €50 and
otherwise €22.