A DIY Kratky Container Series Using Recycled Materials

Part 5: Adding the Growing Medium & Personalizing Your Setup

In Part 1, we introduced the basic materials you’ll need.Part 2 walked you through how to create the Base Housing for your growing medium.Part 3 focused on preparing the nutrient solution containers and the seed-starting dome.Part 4 showed how to bring it all together by building the top plate.

Now in Part 5, we’re adding the growing medium and sharing tips on customizing your containers for both function and beauty.

🌱 Adding the Growing Medium

You can use small stones, gravel, or—my personal favourite—clay pebbles. These are widely used in hydroponic growing and come in various sizes. For the Kratky method, I recommend 4–8 mm clay pebbles for best results. Larger sizes (like 8–25 mm) often leave too much space between the pebbles, causing seeds to slip down into the water, risking them becoming waterlogged and drowning before they germinate.

The goal is simple: keep the seeds moist but not saturated. That’s why we made the seed-starting dome—to hold in moisture during germination.

💡 Pro Tip: The day before planting, lightly spray your growing medium with water. Clay pebbles absorb moisture, helping to create a more balanced environment for seed germination.

Using a basic measuring cup, you’ll find:

• Each container holds about 1/4 cup of clay pebbles

• Scoop 3/4 cup total to fill 3 containers in one go

🎨 To Paint or Not to Paint?

Before adding your nutrient solution and seeds, consider painting your containers. Light exposure encourages algae growth, which can rob your plants of oxygen and nutrients. If left unchecked, algae can suffocate your plant’s roots and stop growth altogether.

If you want to observe root development through the container (which is fascinating!), you can skip painting, but be prepared to:

• Watch closely for signs of algae

• Change the solution frequently

• Add small amounts of hydrogen peroxide (more on that below)

I personally use a light blue paint, specifically Tropical Blue. It’s not just for looks:

• Lighter colours reduce heat buildup (important if growing near windows or strong indoor lights)

• Blue blocks more light wavelengths, limiting algae growth

• Roots thrive in cool, dark conditions

✨ Hydrogen Peroxide: A Helpful Additive

A small capful of hydrogen peroxide:

• Helps prevent algae

• Increases germination rates

• Sanitizes your growing environment

But moderation is key! Too much can harm seeds or roots.

I also add a bit of peroxide to my spray bottle when misting seeds during germination. Over time, I've come to use this regularly, and I share more in the Research Videos section for those curious about the why and how.

🧘 Positive Energy & Customization

Personalize your container! I often write positive words and affirmations on mine—“Love,” “Grow,” “Peace”—and use colour and symbols that bring joy and intention to my growing space.

You might find inspiration from:

• Research on the impact of words and intentions on water

• Stories of people talking to their plants and seeing improved growth

• Ideas from electroculture, a method using electromagnetic energy to enhance plant health

I’m beginning tests with copper wire supports that may provide structural support while also offering subtle electrical benefits. Eventually, I plan to incorporate crystals like quartz and amethyst—another future direction for exploring energy in plant care.

🌿 Supporting Larger Plants

As plants grow, some will lean or fall over—especially if the top becomes heavier than the root system. When this happens, roots can be damaged or dislodged, which can kill the plant.

In this series, I’ve used:

• Simple plastic-coated wire

• Tomato cages

• String with clips from above or the sides

Future builds will include:

• Twisted copper wire frames that extend to the base of the container

• Integrated plant supports and electroculture-ready setups

💡 What’s Next?

You’re now ready to add your seeds and nutrient solution and begin growing with purpose and passion.

We'll soon be posting:

• A guide to nutrient solutions (including how to get them free in Oshawa!)

• Affordable options for LED grow lights (some found as low as $3–$5!)

• Updates on fundraising efforts to help those who grow food for others

💖 Final Thoughts

This isn’t just about growing food—it’s about growing hope.

When you take time for your health and wellness, it’s not selfish—it’s an act of love. The confidence and joy that comes from growing your own food can be transformational. And when you feel better, you can give more, love more, and grow more—for yourself and others.

We all deserve access to fresh, nutritious food and the knowledge to make it happen, no matter our circumstances.

Because...

LIFE – Love Is For Everyone