Kratky Mason Jars and Mason Jar Hydroponics

Most plants grow well in a small space, such as this mason jar.

Growing Tomatoes, Basil, Lettuce and More Using the Kratky Method of Hydroponics with Mason Jars

If you’re interested in growing peppers hydroponically, you may want to consider using the Kratky method using mason jars. This is a simple, passive form of hydroponics that doesn’t require any pumps or moving parts, and can be easily set up with inexpensive materials.

To get started, you’ll need a container to hold your plants. I like to use clear mason jars because they’re cheap and easy to find, but you can use any type of container that’s big enough to fit your plants. You’ll also need some net pots (these can be found at most garden stores) and some hydroton clay pellets.

Once you have your supplies gathered, fill your container with water and add enough hydroton.

Can You Grow Herbs in Glass Jars?

Yes, you can grow herbs in glass jars. Glass jars can be suitable containers for growing herbs indoors, especially using soilless methods like Kratky. Make sure to choose herbs that don’t require extensive root space and can thrive in relatively small containers. Additionally, select a sunny spot for your glass jar herb garden to ensure the plants receive sufficient light or grow under LED lighting.

Grow Herbs in Glass Mason Jars

To grow herbs in glass mason jars, follow these steps:

Choose suitable herbs: Select herbs that can thrive in indoor environments and don’t require extensive root space. Examples include basil, mint, parsley, chives, oregano, and thyme.

Select appropriate jars: Use clean glass jars with wide openings to allow for adequate air circulation. Mason jars or recycled glass containers work well. 

Prepare the hydroponic solution: Prepare the hydroponic solution that is best for the herb you are growing. Fill the jar with the mix until it reaches the bottom of your net pot, just above the bottom of the roots. Leave room for air to get to your roots.

Plant the herbs: Plant herb seeds or seedlings in rockwool or other growing medium in the net pot. Ensure the medium gets plenty of water (clay pebbles will soak up water and deliver to the roots).

Provide adequate light: Place the glass jars in a sunny location where the herbs can receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If natural light is limited, consider supplementing with grow lights.

Water appropriately: Check the water level regularly and add water as needed. Check that your solution does not deplete and the roots are touching.

Maintain the herbs: Trim the herbs regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Harvest leaves as needed for culinary use, but avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Fertilize occasionally: Herbs grown in glass jars may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced solution diluted to half strength.

By following these steps, you can grow herbs in glass jars indoors, providing fresh ingredients for cooking while adding greenery to your living space.