Which growing system you choose is really a question of personal preference. Traditionally, new growers would go with whatever system their friends or favourite grow guide suggested; it’s by no means a bad way to choose, but with the internet (and guides like this) there’s more scope today to get started with a method of growing that better suits your tastes. Before we get into the systems themselves, there are a number of elements to keep in mind.

1. Get your money’s worth

Growing systems are no small outlay; doing as much research as you can before you put your money down is invaluable. Online grow guides and video tutorials are great, but it’s worth remembering that it can be hard to tell who’s being paid to push a product, and just how much experience that ‘Master Grower’ really has. Visiting your local hydroponics shop and talking to the people who work there is by far the most reliable way to get credible, trustworthy advice.

Similarly, the system you choose is going to be the bedrock of your grow, so it’s worth investing in a reputable company’s product, rather than trying to scrimp on a cheap knock-off.

2. Bigger isn’t always better

Starting off small and learning your craft is always a good idea. It’s also worth noting that many of these systems have been altered and refined over decades of practical experience – just because a system looks and sounds unassuming, that doesn’t mean it’s cheap or ineffective. At the same time, there are systems which sound complex when written down, that are actually dead simple when put into practice.

3. Keep it clean

Commercial growers (the good ones, at least) dedicate one day a week, every week, to clean the entire facility, and all of their equipment, from top to bottom. You’d do well to do the same.

Regardless of the system you choose, your grow is only ever going to be as good as you are, and diligent cleanliness is fundamental to growing healthy plants. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered on that front; Silver Bullet is a silver stabilised hydrogen peroxide disinfectant designed to keep your system clean from the inside.

4. The right tool for the job

Some systems work with specific media, so if you’re more concerned with what you’re growing in, rather than how you’re growing it, be sure to pick the appropriate system. Shogun offers a number of nutrients that are customised to account for the variables of different systems and media. Sumo Active Boost and the Samurai Hydro range are both designed for use with systems that put the heavy lifting on the nutrient solution.