Types

• To start a hydroponic garden, you need a system that holds the plants and floods the root systems periodically with a nutrient solution. Ebb-and-flow systems are basic systems you can build at home yourself. Trickle-feed and tube culture systems are also available.
  
  

Nutrients

• Nutrients will determine the success or failure of your hydroponic garden, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Fertilizers do not contain all of the nutrients plants need, so hydroponic gardens require specially made nutrient solutions. While it is possible to mix your own, it is complicated and doesn't necessarily save money.
  
  

Growing Medium

• In hydroponic gardens, an inorganic substrate supports plant roots, similar to soil but without contributing nutrients. Hydroponics Simplified recommends coconut coir, clay balls and perlite as the best choices for a beginner.