10 Best Plants for Hydroponic Gardens

Choosing the Best Plants for Hydroponics

Hydroponic gardening is a method for growing plants without soil, indoors or out — plants get their nutrients directly through the water instead. Benefits include higher yields and fewer pesticides (no soil for pests to hide in!).

Whether starting with a hydroponic garden kit or DIYing your new system, choosing the best plants for hydroponics helps set beginners up for success. Some things to consider:

Start Small

“It’s wise to focus on growing one easy vegetable first, such as lettuce, and learn that well before attempting to expand and grow a variety of different plants,” says Cris Tuhy, co-owner of the Sweetleaf Farm, a small Andover, New Jersey, farm that grows a multitude of hydroponic produce. “You’ll get a sense of accomplishment and have a higher success rate overall.”

Skip Underground Growers

Avoid root vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots, which generally require soil to thrive.

Stick To the System

Some plants need certain hydroponic system specifics to grow well, so match your plants to it accordingly.

Consider Size

Think ahead to how big the plant you’re considering is destined to become. Just as in soil-based gardening, the bigger the plant, the more precious space it requires, and overcrowding plants can lead to a disappointing yield.

Read on for some hearty, fast-growing plants that experts say are some of the best plants for hydroponic gardens.