Building a Sustainable Future:

Hydroponic Gardening for All

I have many goals, and one of my main passions is repurposing materials to minimize waste and reduce the need to buy new supplies. Along the way, I love to share what I’ve learned, even though my methods and goals may not be for everyone. Some of what I’m working on is very specific to my needs and the efforts I’m building, but I believe in the power of sharing knowledge.

One of my primary focuses is growing food year-round using hydroponics. Hydroponic growing, when done right, can result in larger, faster plant production in smaller spaces—perfect for those with limited space. I’m committed to using only food-grade materials to ensure that my plants are safe to eat, and I’m constantly seeking ways to repurpose readily available materials, saving both money and resources.

Hydroponics in Action

I’ve started with four containers, each planted with a couple of tomato seeds. It will take a few weeks before the seedlings are ready to be transferred into custom solution containers, but I’m excited to see the process unfold. For now, you can see how I’m using repurposed plastic ice cream buckets for the nutrient solution. I’ve also set up lids that hold plastic water bottle tops filled with clay pebbles, which will sit in the nutrient solution, helping to anchor the plants and support their growth.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various growing media to find what works best for starting seeds. The goal is to create a system that allows the seedlings to remain in the same container without needing to be transferred. This way, I can use these containers for any of my hydroponic needs, reducing waste and the need for more materials.

Each of the systems I use for nutrient solutions relies on repurposed materials, showing that sustainable growing doesn’t have to mean buying new, expensive equipment.

Sharing Knowledge and Resources: The Not Just A Food Program

The beauty of what I’m doing is that it’s not just for me—it’s for anyone who wants to grow their own food. What I’m doing for the Not Just A Food Program can be applied to anyone’s needs. With a little creativity and the right resources, individuals and families can grow fresh, nutritious plants without spending a lot of money.

I have a grow tent in my living room where I grow a variety of plants. These plants then add to my baker's rack in the kitchen, where I have three shelves filled with fresh herbs, greens, and vegetables—ready to be picked and added to meals and snacks. You can check out some of my posts in the FIFE - Food Is For Everyone series to see the fresh salads I’ve made straight from my kitchen garden. I’ve also shared examples of the spices and other plants I grow indoors.

Living in an apartment, I’ve had to get creative with the space I have. A few years ago, I had a major health crisis that drastically impacted what I can grow, but it’s also motivated me to cultivate a diverse range of plants (currently over 17 different ones!) that support my health and well-being.

How You Can Get Involved

The Not Just A Food Program is dedicated to giving back to the community. I provide plants, containers, and the necessary nutrient solutions at no cost to participants. My goal is to make sure this program is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. The only requirement to join is being a member of the network. This helps ensure proper management and prevents misuse of the program.

This program is more than just growing food; it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to access fresh, healthy plants that can improve their lives. Whether you want to grow food for yourself or your family, or simply learn sustainable practices, I’m here to support you.

Let’s work together to grow a better future, one plant at a time.

LIFE - Love Is For Everyone 🌱