Explore the world of RV hydroponic gardening! Whether you’re on the road or parked, learn how to grow fresh veggies and herbs right in your RV. Join the green journey!
Ever dreamed of having a garden on the go? With RV hydroponic gardening, that dream can become a reality!
Imagine plucking fresh herbs or biting into a homegrown tomato while traveling in your RV.
It’s not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that brings the joy of gardening wherever you roam.
If you live in an RV you may have thought about RV hydroponic gardening and wondered if it is possible. Good news! Yes, growing food while RV living is possible.
Hydroponic gardening eliminates the use of soil so there won’t be any dirt inside your RV.
Not only is hydroponic gardening cleaner but plants grow faster and usually yield more in hydroponics.
Introduction to RV Hydroponic Gardening:
Welcome to the exciting world of RV hydroponic gardening! In this guide, we’ll explore two innovative methods that make it possible to grow your favorite plants right inside your RV.
From mason jar hydroponics to the high-tech AeroGarden, we’ll cover everything you need to know to start your RV garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, there’s something here for you. Let’s dive in!
Mason Jar Hydroponics: This simple and cost-effective method uses the Kratky Method, a passive form of hydroponics that requires no electricity. Perfect for growing lettuce, greens, and herbs.
Using The AeroGarden In An RV: A more advanced and compact unit, the AeroGarden allows you to grow peppers or tomatoes, something you can’t do with mason jar hydroponics.
It comes with a built-in LED light, seed pods, and nutrients making it a versatile choice for your RV. Best of all it’s almost fool proof!
RV Hydroponic Gardening Ideas
I will show you two different ways to do this. One method is called mason jar hydroponics which is pretty easy and cheap to set up.
Here is an article I wrote about setting up mason jar hydroponics.
Mason Jar Hydroponics For Your RV Garden
This uses the Kratky Method which is a passive form of hydroponics. Because it is passive it uses no electricity.
You can use larger containers than quart mason jars if you wish. But a 3-inch net pot fits a quart jar perfectly.
This works well for lettuce, greens, and herbs but not for larger plants.
If you have a bit more space you can make this system in a storage tote and grow multiple plants. This system is a lot better than using mason jars and a lot more stable. If you want to turbocharge your Kratky lettuce then adding an airstone will do that.
Here is what it looks like with a mix of leaf and Buttercrunch lettuce in it. You can harvest leaf lettuce in 45 days and Buttercrunch in 60 days.
If you want, you can just keep removing leaves instead of cutting the whole plant.
Using The Aerogarden In An RV
The other method involves using an AeroGarden. It is more costly but if your RV doesn’t have a lot of light or space it will be a better choice.
This is a very compact unit that will fit just about anywhere in your RV as long as you can plug it in.
Inside light levels are too low to grow most vegetables or herbs. unless you have a South facing window you will need supplemental lighting.
With an AeroGarden you can grow peppers or tomatoes which is something you can’t do with mason jar hydroponics.
Also, if you need to take your RV on the road it is much more stable than a mason jar filled with water.
The AeroGarden Harvest measures 10.5 long by 6 wide and is 16 tall with the light fully extended.
So it is very compact and perfect for an RV where space is at a premium. It can easily fit on a kitchen counter or even on a shelf.
There are different sizes of the AeroGarden. The AeroGarden harvest can grow 6 plants.
The next size up is the AeroGarden Bounty with 9 plant sites. It is slightly larger but a better choice for tomatoes or peppers.
There are also a lot of cheaper knock offs but I don’t know if they will work as well or be as reliable. I am a firm believer in you get what you pay for.
RV Hydroponic Gardening FAQs:
Got questions about RV hydroponic gardening? You’re not alone! It’s a fascinating subject with lots to explore.
In this section, we’ll answer some of the most common questions that readers like you might have. From the basics to the more advanced, we’ve got you covered!
Q: Can I grow any type of plant with RV hydroponic gardening?
A: While many plants can be grown hydroponically, some are more suited for RV conditions.
Lettuce, herbs, and small vegetables are ideal for the Kratky system.
Larger plants may require more space and care. But cherry tomatoes and peppers are definitely possible in an AeroGarden.
Q: Is hydroponic gardening expensive to set up in an RV?
A: It can be as affordable or as expensive as you want. Mason jar hydroponics is a budget-friendly option, while systems like AeroGarden may cost more but offer more features.
Q: How do I manage the lighting for my RV hydroponic garden?
A: Lighting can be managed through natural sunlight if available, or through supplemental LED lights like those included in the AeroGarden.
The right balance of light is crucial for growth. If you are using the Kratky method you may need to provide supplemental LED lighting.
Q: Can I travel with my RV hydroponic garden?
A: Absolutely! With proper setup and care, your hydroponic garden can thrive on the road. Just ensure stability and proper care while traveling.
Environmental Benefits of RV Hydroponic Gardening
Embracing RV hydroponic gardening isn’t just about enjoying fresh produce on the go; it’s also about contributing to a greener planet.
By growing your own food in an RV, you’re taking part in a sustainable practice that has several environmental benefits.
Let’s explore how this innovative gardening method can be a friend to Mother Earth.
Water Conservation:
Hydroponic gardening uses significantly less water than traditional soil gardening. In an RV setting, this is not only practical but also environmentally responsible.
The water in a hydroponic system is recirculated, meaning that it can be reused, reducing overall consumption.
This is a crucial benefit, especially in areas where water scarcity is a concern.
Reduced Use of Pesticides and Herbicides:
With hydroponic gardening, plants grow in a controlled environment, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides.
This not only leads to healthier plants but also minimizes the harmful impact these chemicals can have on the environment.
By avoiding or reducing the use of these substances, RV hydroponic gardeners contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable ecosystem.
Tools and Accessories for RV Hydroponic Gardening
Starting your RV hydroponic garden is an exciting journey, and having the right tools and accessories can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, there are essential items that will help you create and maintain your mobile garden.
Let’s take a look at some must-have tools and accessories for your RV hydroponic gardening adventure.
Hydroponic Systems and Containers:
Choosing the right system and containers is the foundation of your RV hydroponic garden.
From mason jars for the Kratky Method and 3-inch net pots to fit inside them to more advanced systems like the AeroGarden, selecting the right setup is crucial.
Aerogardens are ready to go and include everything you need to get started and additional seed pods and nutrients are easy to source online.
For the Kratky mason jars, you will need to buy seeds or plants and hydroponic nutrients.
Consider factors like space, budget, and the types of plants you want to grow. Each system has its unique features, so understanding your needs will guide you to the perfect choice.
Nutrients and Growth Mediums:
Unlike traditional soil gardening, hydroponic plants require specially formulated nutrient solutions to grow.
These solutions provide all the essential minerals and vitamins that plants need. Along with the right nutrients, selecting the appropriate growth medium, such as coconut coir or perlite, is vital.
These mediums support the plants and help distribute the nutrients evenly. Researching and investing in quality nutrients and growth mediums will ensure a thriving and productive garden.
RV Hydroponic Gardening Final Thoughts
To sum up, RV hydroponic gardening is not only possible but it is fun and rewarding.
Whether you decide to try the Kratky mason jar method or buy an AeroGarden I recommend starting your own RV garden.
Is hydroponic gardening worth it? I certainly think it is and once you try it you will too.
Good luck and happy gardening!
