Growing Tomatoes with Hydroponics:

March 29, 2025, From Seed to Harvest

Welcome to the third installment of our hydroponic tomato-growing journey! It’s been a few weeks since we started the seeds, and things are really coming along. Here’s an update on where we are today, along with a glimpse of the process from seed to harvest.

Seed Starting (March 13, 2025)

The tomato seeds were initially started on March 13, 2025. A week later, on March 20, 2025, we posted an update showing their progress. Now, our tomato plants have matured enough to move out of the seed starting station and into their final indoor grow tent setup in my dining room.

Preparing the Containers

The first step in this next phase was preparing the containers for the plants. In the next image, you can see that we mixed the nutrient solution. The solution gives the water a green tint, which is part of the process to ensure the plants get the proper nutrients. Once the containers were filled, we placed the lids on them and set up the wire supports, ready for the plants.

Placing the Containers

In the final image, all four containers are placed in the grow tent, ready for their next stage of growth. This is where the plants will continue to grow, flower, and eventually produce fruit. I’ve been using these hydroponic systems for years, experimenting with different containers and setups, but the process is always the same. I start all my seeds in the same way, and as the plants mature, I move them to larger containers based on the intended use—whether it's for consumption or to grow seeds for future plantings.

Seed Saving and Sustainability

One of my personal goals is to become self-sustaining, which includes growing my own seeds. By producing seeds myself, I no longer need to buy new seeds every time is time to plant. This not only saves money but also allows me to maintain control over the quality of the plants I grow. While it requires more planning and effort, I’m committed to the process of saving seeds and ensuring that my plants remain healthy and productive.

Cost-Effective Growing

The containers I use are made from recycled materials, which helps to reduce costs. The nutrient solutions, clay pebbles, and wire supports do come with some expenses, but I’ve learned to source these materials wisely. For example, a bag of clay pebbles costs about $15, and it can fill 25-30 containers. Mixing my own nutrient solutions also saves money, only costing a few cents per container. The wire supports, which can be found at garage sales for just a dollar or bought new for $3, are reused year after year, making the overall costs minimal.

The Not Just A Food Program

Through fundraising, I’ve been able to offset the costs of certain supplies and make these hydroponic setups available for free to members of our network. The goal of the Not Just A Food Program is to provide the necessary supplies for growing, while participants manage the plants and share 50% of the harvest with those in need. It’s a community effort that fosters health, nutrition, and sustainability. I teach participants how to care for the plants, and in return, they provide space, share their experiences, and contribute to the program’s success.

Looking Ahead

As the tomato plants continue to grow and eventually produce fruit, we’ll share more photos of the progress. In the coming months, we’ll see our first harvest for the Not Just A Food Program, and we’re excited to expand beyond just tomatoes to include other crops. It’s all about working together, sharing knowledge, and creating a community of support.

This is just the beginning of our journey, and I look forward to continuing to grow alongside you. With dedication, patience, and a little teamwork, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

LIFE – Love Is For Everyone