Smartvalve

I'm sure some of you know what need-based hydro is (basically wicking), but has anyone used Autopots or Smartgardens (Hydroponics - systems nutrients supplies and grow lights by FUTUREGARDEN) for their grow yet. These units are obliterating the hydro scene in Australia (their country of origin) and SouthEast Asia. Hydroponics l AutoPot Systems | Plant Driven l Saves Water l Hanging Baskets l Simple Hydroponic

If you saw the size of the orchids they are growing you would be as excited as I am.http://www.autopot.com.au/content/images/Phalae1.JPG

Well, shit Man! Anybody can grow orchids!

no, not anyone can grow orchids like that pic. orchids are one of the most finnicky plants in the world when is come to maintaining the correct moisture level.

For some odd reason, I have common friendly contact with a couple of different Aus hydro shop owners.

I wouldn't say that wick hydro systems are exactly 'obliterating the hydro scene' in Australia. Wicks are generally used by low plant count or new growers. Bigger systems are more likely to be recirculating types, most often flood/drain or NFT.

Wicks can be a terrific entry into hydroponics; overwatering is almost impossible, eliminating newbie pitfall #1. However, they're not quite as productive as recirculating systems as not as much dissolved oxygen can be transported in the wick-carried solution as can be carried in tubes. However, wicks certainly do work and will give early success without a lot of expertise or expense.

oh... and I have orchids growing in a dead log in my front yard. SOME orchids are finicky as hell and some even need symbiotic fungi in the soil to flower. Some orchids are boring as batshit... and would grow in it, too.

Sweet Melon Project - Malaysia

here is a large scale project in Malaysia ( I was wrong about AU), they do pressurize the lines for larger set-ups.

I roll autopots and love them. Wouldn't do it anyotherway than plant driven watering. Actually thinking of doing an aquaponics run with trout or rainbow fish. You will be very happy. Get the singles though not the doubles.