How to Make Your Own Misters for a Hydroponic Cloner

A hydroponic cloner is a great tool for any gardener, whether you prefer to grow outdoors in soil or in a full hydroponic system. Because a hydroponic cloner mists nutrients directly onto to the delicate roots on a cutting, they are able to absorb the nutrients more readily. Making a mister for a hydroponic cloner is as simple as repurposing a fogger meant for backyard ponds, and using it in a closed hydroponic environment.

Things You'll Need

• Opaque plastic storage bin with a lid
• 2-inch hole saw
• Power drill with 1/2-inch bit
• Pond fogger
• 1 gallon container
• Concentrated nutrient solution
• Extension cord (optional)

Instructions

Set Up the Cloner

1. Drill 2-inch holes in the lid of the plastic bin with the hole saw. Leave at least 3 inches of space between the holes so the lid does not collapse under the weight of the plants.

2. Drill a 1/2-inch hole near the top edge of the bin.

3. Place the pond fogger inside the storage bin. Thread the power cord through the 1/2-inch hole. You may need to enlarge this hole slightly to fit the plug through.

4. Mix water and concentrated nutrient solution in the 1-gallon container. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct ratio of nutrient solution to water. Mix well.

5. Pour enough of the water and nutrient solution mixture into the plastic storage bin to cover the pond fogger with 1/2-inch of liquid.

6. Put the lid securely on the storage bin. Place net pots filled 2/3 of the way to the top with perlite in each 2-inch hole.

7. Plug in the pond fogger--use an extension cord if necessary--and turn it on. Let it run for a few minutes, then lift out one net pot to check the contents of the bin. You should see a fine mist floating in the storage bin, and there should be water droplets forming on the bottom of the net pot.

Tips & Warnings

• The size of pond fogger you need depends on the size of cloner you are building. When in doubt, buy a size larger than you think you will need.

• If you do not see water droplets forming on the bottom of the net pots, the mist is not reaching high enough. To raise the pond fogger closer to the plants, line the bottom of the storage bin with bricks, then add the pond fogger and nutrient solution.

References

• Penn State University: Aeroponic Cultures
• University of Illinois Extension: Hydroponic Systems

Resources

• Technology Garden: A Guide to Hydroponics