How to Grow Hydroponic Tomatoes at Home

Homegrown hydroponic tomatoes require regular feedings of nutrient solution.

Hydroponics offers a solution to plant growers who have limited water, space and fertile topsoil, according to Virginia Cooperative Extension. Hydroponically grown tomatoes are free of soil-based pests and diseases. Home growers can reap the benefits of hydroponically grown tomatoes on a small scale by using leak-proof containers. These containers will hold water and vital nutrients for the plants. The plant itself is suspended in a net pot where the roots have full access to the nutrients in the container.

Things You'll Need

• Tomato seeds
• Seed tray
• Fan
• Artificial lights
• Soilless mix (perlite or peat)
• Styrofoam containers
• Net pots
• Nutrient solution
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Soak the soilless mix in water. This mix will be used to sprout the tomato seeds. During the sprouting process, the perlite provides enough nutrients for the tomato plants and a nutrient solution will not need to be applied until transplantation, according to the University of Arizona.

2. Fill the seeding trays with the soilless mix. Plant the seeds ¼ inch deep and re-place the tray lid. Alternatively, spread a layer of plastic wrap over the tray to retain moisture, but it will have to be removed once sprouting has begun.

3. Expose the seedlings to light. Indoor tomato sprouts should receive 14 to 18 hours of artificial light each day.

4. Water the seedlings. Use overhead water, from a watering container or hose, to moisten the seeds and seedlings. Using warm water, at least 64 degrees Fahrenheit, speeds the sprouting process, according to the University of Arizona.

5. Transplant the tomato seedlings after their first true leaves have developed. Plant the seedlings in a net pot, using clay aggregate pellets or rockwool as the supporting media.

6. Cut a hole in the lid of a Styrofoam box, using scissors. The size of the hole should be just under the diameter of the net pot, allowing the pot to sit in the hole and not fall through it.

7. Puncture the lid several times to create greater aeration inside the container. Make these holes approximately 1 inch in diameter.

8. Fill the container with water and nutrient solution. Leave an inch or two at the top of the container to allow for the lid and to leave some air flow for the roots. Follow the label directions for how to dilute the nutrient solution with water.

9. Place the tomatoes under artificial light for indoor growing and sunlight for outdoor growing. Indoor hydroponic tomato plants will need approximately 14 hours of artificial light.

10. Maintain the same water-to-nutrient solution ratio each time you add liquid to the hydroponic containers. Since plants do not absorb all the nutrients at the same rate, change the liquid every two weeks to keep the ratio in balance.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a small fan to circulate the air in your grow room. Outdoor hydroponic plants benefit from the freely circulating air flow.

• Net pots are cup-shaped containers with an open grid on the sides and bottom. The net pot holds the plant in place but allow the roots to reach the water through the open grid.

References

• University of Florida: Grow Your Own Vegetables Without Soil
• University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension: Hydroponic Vegetable Gardening
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Home Hydroponics
• University of Arizona College of Agriculture: Growing Tomatoes Hydroponically