Modular Hydroponics Tower w/ Grow Lights

Intro ----- This is a modified version of [boundarycondition's Modular Hydroponic Tower Garden](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3405964) and some features of [ghoofman's Smart IoT Modular Hydroponic Tower Garden](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4319940).

I finally decided to upload my remix of boundarycondition's Modular Hydroponic Tower Garden. I initially just planned to do a make, but soon I decided to invest some time and modify the project to suit my needs and capabilities.

What I intended was:

* I wanted to utilize the space as much as possible and this meant that I needed a tower at least 6 feet tall. Thus, the base of the tower had to be extra stable to support the weight of the tower. I might have overengineered the base to make it extra stiff, but it worked!

* I have a Prusa MINI+, which has a fairly small bed (180mmx180mm). This somewhat complicated things.

* Due to the weather I live in, I needed to place the tower indoors. This required the use of grow lights. I couldn't find a grow light holder that fit my print bed and could, in the future, be extended further outward as the plants grow.

* Finally, the project had to be modular and easily upgradeable.

Thankfully, I have decent experience with Solidworks. Thus, I downloaded the STEP files from the two aforementioned projects and modified a few parts. The pot lid and the LED supports were entirely my creation.

I'll provide a link to the [STEP files](https://mega.nz/folder/W5lXRIiQ#prYVi7QpIpvh07v5zwe3DA) in case someone want to keep modifying the project.

The tower has been up and running without any major incident. It has 8 4-way planting modules and 3 spacers. It is surprisingly stable and I plan to add at least a couple more modules once the plants grow a bit more. The pump I'm using is more than capable of pumping enough water all the way to the top. I initially started with 3 42W 4ft LED grow lights, but after a month I decided to try to add to 3 more for a total of 6 to provide better lighting. The grow lights are pretty well secured from the bottom with the arms I designed.

I'm also gonna provide a parts list in case anyone doesn't want to do all the research looking for the specific pump or lights needed.

**Finally, I published a new project (link [here](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6486044)) so people can print a lid for a standard 5 US Gallon Bucket. It's easy to source, cheap and with an increased reservoir capacity. I haven't printed it (since I have no need for it) but it should work!**

Hope this helps!

QUESTIONS? Just leave a comment. I usually check at least once a month to update and answer questions.

**ATTENTION!**

**I already found someone reselling the .STL files on Etsy. Be nice and abide by the CC license. The files are free and for everyone. I promise I'll find every single attempt to resell this project and I'll take appropriate action.** I've also found people outright republishing the project on other platforms. I'd ask to at least change the pictures. I'm tired of recognizing my basement on the internet...

Printing Recommendations -----------------------------------

These are the print setting I used. Feel free to modify them if you see fit:

* Printer: Prusa MINI+ * Filament: PETG * Layer Height: 0.25mm * Infill: 20% (except the lid and the LED arms, which are 50% for extra strength) * Print Speed: > 40mm/s * Supports: Not needed (except for the LED arm tip, which has to be printed vertically, and the tag holder, which requires supports on the upper lip). Check the images of the slicer I uploaded) * Print bed: 18'mmx180mm (if you print bed is larger, you can print a 3-way planting module. * Brims: Yes * Perimeters: 3 (makes it watertight and adds extra strengh)

Due to the small size of the Prusa MINI+ print bed, I can only print 1, 2 and 4-way planting modules. If you have a larger print bed, you can print any module you want, since I haven't modified the size or the locking mechanism of the modules of [boundarycondition's project](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3405964). If you can't access the link, the STEP files are available in the MEGA link provided in the STEP files section.

Recommended Parts ----------------------------

These are the parts and components I bought for this project. All of them (except the IKEA pot) were bought through Amazon. This is only a reference so you don't have to do as much research as I did!

* [IKEA 9 1/2" MUSKOT pot](https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/muskot-plant-pot-white-10308198/#content): I usually fill it with 2.5-3 gallons of water. It looks nice and once full is pretty stable. If you cannot find this pot, you might want to check my [remix for a 5 US Gallon bucket](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6486044).

* [EcoPlus 290 GPH (1098 LPH, 17W) Submersible Water Pump](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012UZYMG/?coliid=I1R0QTKAN31OOB&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): The current tower is about 5 feet tall and the pump could go up to 6 feet while still delivering enough flow. It is quite enough so you only hear the trickle of water. It's rather relaxing.

* [4ft Barrina T8 LED grow light 42W](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082ZKZVRQ/?coliid=I3CTI8O5BFX5DL&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it_im): These are not the best grow lights, but I'm just getting started and I wanted to get some affordable lights to get started. You can install up to 6 grow lights. I'll update on how many I'm using.

* [Kasa smart Plug](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091699Z3W/?coliid=I31XSAJI2VG47N&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it_im): I use these smart plugs to control the scheduling of the lights and pump according to the plants I'm growing and their growth stage. The app is user friendly and allows you to add enough on/off events for the entire day (although I'd recommend you run your pump on +30min on/off cycles).

* [Overture PETG Filament 1.75mm, 1kg spool](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PJ35G4V/?coliid=IMYYG5Q1VS09S&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it):You can use the brand you desire, but I'd recommend PWTG over PLA due to it's added strength and durability (and the cost is the same nowadays).

* [1 Set Splendid Popular General Hydroponics pH (4.0-8.5) Test Kit Indicator Tester Up and Down, 30ml](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017XTG6CG/?coliid=ILQ56O2YIWLC1&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): I decided to use drops because it's simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Some other people use strips (which is basically the same idea, but more bulky) or pH Meters (however the cost and the errors due to calibration are not ideal for first time users). Use whichever you feel comfortable with!

* [2PCS 10ml Glass Graduated Droppers Lab Pipettes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XX3P1TJ/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07XX3P1TJ&pd_rd_w=j3Evx&content-id=amzn1.sym.88097cb9-5064-44ef-891b-abfacbc1c44b&pf_rd_p=88097cb9-5064-44ef-891b-abfacbc1c44b&pf_rd_r=86VXFH85SYWZYD6SRAAY&pd_rd_wg=heVbp&pd_rd_r=bb012a81-f2fe-4826-bf7a-8963b4a57601&s=industrial&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExQjJIOFYwSEU3VVQwJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDg3MDgyMUs0VVNGOEpUVDhXOCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTQ0NTUzMlFKM09TNVROT0pVTiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbCZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=): Because I use liquid pH Test Indicator I needed a way to get into the reservoir and grab a small amount of liquid to test. With the pipettes its really easy. In addition, you can use them to measure a tiny amount of pH Down/Up with precision. Usually you only need 1ml or less, so it's quite challenging without a pipette.

* [General Hydroponics pH Down Liquid Premium Buffering, Quart](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CJID1I4/?coliid=I22XAXPOD5H5I8&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): I only got the pH down buffer because in the Rockies the water's pH is already pretty basic. If needed, also get the pH Up version from the same manufacturer.

* [GROW!T GMC10L - 4mm-16mm Clay Pebbles, Brown, 10Liter Bag](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009LNOZQ2/?coliid=IPYGS0BIVLP8D&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): These clay pebbles have the right size and don't alter the pH (the first few days the pH might vary slightly before it stabilizes). Make sure to rinse them before use.

* [TIMESETL 304 Stainless Steel Woven Wire 80 Mesh - 12"X 40" Filter Screen Sheet Filtration Cloth](https://www.amazon.com/TIMESETL-Stainless-Steel-Woven-Wire/dp/B081QBVPCG/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3QV3CQIJPTA84&keywords=80+steel+mesh&qid=1677208309&s=industrial&sprefix=80+steel+mesh%2Cindustrial%2C159&sr=1-3): This mesh is used to prevent debris and roots from getting into the reservoir and obstructing the pump. This mesh is fine enough to prevent the roots from getting through. The only downside is that it's not easy to cut to shape. You can cut the circle that's sandwich between the two 3D printed pieces with good scissors. The holes for the crews and the tube are harder to make. Be careful, this mesh is sharp and you can get cut. I'M SERIOUS. I managed to make the screw holes with a drill and a template. For the big center hole do a medium size hole and then expand it carefully with scissors. I'd encourage anyone to find a better alternative.

* [3/8"ID 1/2"OD Cear Vinyl Tubing, 25ft](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0925Y75GD/?coliid=INM4QQ7FNC389&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it&th=1): You can use any PVC tubing with 3/8" internal diameter and 1/2" external diameter. Always get more length than you need in case you need to make the tower taller in the future. When assembling the tower, cut the tube longer and just spool it inside the reservoir. By the way, don't use the metallic braces that come with the tubing. It will rust quickly and mess with the pH of the water. Just pressure fit the tubes in place. If needed, submerge the tube tip of the tube in hot water to make it more flexible when connecting the tubes with the pump or the dispenser module.

* [1.5" Rockwool Starter Plugs for Hydroponics, 28 plugs](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VYKNGRW/?coliid=IQ6WSAPN0VI0E&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): I'd recommend rockwool for the plugs since it's inexpensive, it doesn't decay and it pH neutral. But for sure you can use other alternatives. Just make sure you get a 1.5" size so the plants have enough support.

* [Hydroponics Set of Maxibloom for Flowering & MaxiGro for Vegetable Nutrients](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F6OEPXS/?coliid=IS5GTE6DLDE3N&colid=3KQJEAIDBR1I7&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it): I decided to go with a powder nutrient mix as opposed to liquid nutrient solution is other because I don't mind dissolving the nutrients before adding them to the reservoir. It's pretty quick) and you get way more for the same price. Eventually you'll have to do you own research on the nutrients needed and schedule. For now, if you only want to grow leafy greens, you only need MaxiGro and you can follow the directions on the back of the bag.

* [Luigi's Aquarium & Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner](https://www.amazon.com/Aquarium-Fish-Siphon-Gravel-Cleaner/dp/B06XKGYJHR/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=hand+pump+aquarium&qid=1673542509&sr=8-5): This part is almost essential when doing the weekly water change. Once the tower is up and running, changing the water is rather difficult. The best way is to use a siphon (if you don't know what it is, you can check it out [here](https://www.wikihow.com/Siphon-Water)). However, being so close to the ground makes starting a siphon rather tricky. This pump streamlines the process. Just make sure you have a bucket nearby!

In addition, the following screws are needed:

* 9x #8-32 x 1-1/2 in. machine screws & nuts (for the LED arms)

* 24x #10-32 x 1 in. machine screws & nuts (for the lid AND to attach the LED Attachment piece to the lid)

* 6x #6-32 x 3/4 in. machine screws & nuts (for the mesh filter)