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# Grow Herbs Hydroponically Without Soil

- [Made in Slatesource](https://slatesource.com/u/kairenner/grow-herbs-hydroponically-without-soil-745)
- By [KaiRenner](https://slatesource.com/u/KaiRenner)
- Nature & Environment
- Created on Mar 20, 2026

**5.5** to 6.5 pH

**700** to 1000 PPM

**14** to 16 Hours

## How a Simple Kratky Setup Works

The Kratky method requires no pump, no electricity for water movement, and no timer beyond what controls your lights. Plants sit in net pots above a reservoir of nutrient solution. Roots hang down and drink as the water level drops, creating an air gap that delivers oxygen directly to the root zone. Top off with fresh nutrient solution as levels fall. It is the lowest-friction way to get started with hydroponics before committing to a more complex recirculating system.

Mix Your Nutrient Solution

Use a two or three part hydroponic nutrient concentrate formulated for leafy

## Mix Your Nutrient Solution

Use a two or three part hydroponic nutrient concentrate formulated for leafy greens. Follow label ratios: typically 5 ml of each part per gallon of water. Check EC (electrical conductivity) with a cheap pen meter: target 1.2 to 1.8 mS/cm for seedlings,

Start Seeds or Transplant Cuttings

Soak rockwool cubes or coco coir plugs in pH 5.5 water before seeding.

## Start Seeds or Transplant Cuttings

Soak rockwool cubes or coco coir plugs in pH 5.5 water before seeding. Plant one to two seeds per plug, cover lightly, and keep moist and warm (70 to 75 F). Germination for basil takes 3 to 5 days. Once roots poke out of the plug, transfer to a net pot

Manage Light and Airflow

Leafy herbs need 14 to 16 hours of light per day under grow lights or a bright

## Manage Light and Airflow

Leafy herbs need 14 to 16 hours of light per day under grow lights or a bright south-facing window in summer. LED grow panels at 2 to 4 inches above canopy work well for compact setups. Add a small USB fan on low to create gentle stem movement: this

> Hydroponics rewards attention to numbers. pH off by half a point and basil will yellow within a week. Get it right and the same plant doubles in two weeks.
>
> — KaiRenner · 26th of April 2026