A question I sometimes get asked is whether one should build their own custom hydroponic system or just buy a premade one.
Whether you should build or buy a hydroponics system depends on your specific needs and goals.
I have bought countertop systems and have created DYI gardens, as well.
So, let me help you understand the pros and cons of each option so you can make the decision whether to build or buy.
Should You Build or Buy a Hydroponics System?
Consider the following key points when thinking about the pros and cons of building versus buying.
Build vs Buy Consideration 1: Cost
Building a hydroponic system can be less expensive than buying one especially if you already have some of the necessary materials on hand.
However, buying a commercial system may be more convenient and potentially more reliable.
If you plan to grow indoors, you’ll need LED lighting.
The cost of LED lights for a DYI system is a big consideration. Although costs have come down over the years, LED lights are still quite expensive!
I built the DWC system pictured above for about $115. $80 of that cost was the lighting!
Note that if you grow in natural sunlight, you don’t need LED lighting!!
Furthermore, not all LED lights you buy online or at a big box store are of good quality. Whereas, you can be fairly certain the built-in lights in something popular like an AeroGarden have been proven effective.
Prices of all-in-one systems have certainly come down over the years.
As of June, 2023, the AeroGarden Harvest is on sale for $90 + tax.
But, the gardens you see sold at big box stores are typically rather compact, with a limited number of spots to grow, and most won’t allow for a significant garden size.
If you want a larger garden, like the AeroGarden Farm, be ready to pay a hefty price!
Build vs. Buy Consideration 2: Plant Options
The last sentence gets me to my next point. Countertop systems like an AeroGarden can only support plants up to a certain size. The reservoir is only big enough to hold so many roots. The LED lighting only extends so tall.
You can see in the picture above, the Blanket Flower I was growing in an AeroGarden quickly outgrew its space!
Which plants pre-built systems can grow, they will grow very well. But, keep in mind the size limitation if you are hoping to grow larger plants like Okra.
Learn how to grow Okra hydroponically by reading this detailed article.
Consideration 3: Expertise
Building a hydroponic system requires some knowledge and experience with hydroponics and basic construction.
If you are new to hydroponics, or do not have the necessary skills or equipment to build your own, it may be better to buy a premade system.
Fortunately, there are many plans for hydroponic systems available online. Here is one such example of a site with many hydroponic options from simple to complex.
If you are just getting started, you could easily create a basic Kratky system.
Consideration 4: Time
Don’t underestimate what your time is worth!
Building a hydroponic system can be quite time-consuming. This can definitely be the case if you are designing and building a system from scratch.
Buying a premade system is nearly always quicker and more convenient.
Also, if you are itching to get started and experiment, buying a premade system will mean your first harvest will come faster!
Consideration 5: Customization
Building your own hydroponic system allows you to customize it to meet your specific needs and preferences. Buying a premade system likely won’t offer much, if any, flexibility.
Consideration 6: Maintenance
Building your own system may require more maintenance and troubleshooting compared to buying a premade system which may come with warranties and support from the manufacturer.
However, on the downside, premade systems may be difficult to troubleshoot or repair if something does fail!
One thing to keep in mind if you do choose a pre-made countertop system, such as the AeroGarden, is the availability of replacement parts.
For example, AeroGarden offers replacement water pumps on Amazon. I did not find replacement pumps at first glance for the iDOO brand. Something to keep in mind!
Ultimately, the decision to build or buy a hydroponic system will depend on your resources, goals, and level of expertise.
If you are new to hydroponics and want a simple and reliable system, it may be best to buy a premade garden.
Speaking from experience, if you do buy a system, I would definitely recommend buying from a reputable company, such as AeroGarden. These gardens are proven and come with a solid warranty.
I’ve had a ton of success with the two AeroGarden models I own.
If you are more experienced and want to customize your system, building your own may be a good option. Building a system is certainly a lot of fun and a great way to get your feet wet (perhaps literally!).
Good luck!
Are you still trying to determine what type of hydroponic system to use? Read our in-depth article on choosing the right hydroponic system.
