How to growing mint hydroponically: real experimental data analysis and success tips

Hey fellow indoor gardeners! If you're curious about growing your own fresh, fragrant mint at home using a hydroponic system, you're in the right place. I recently ran a 6-week experiment using a simple Deep Water Culture (DWC) setup—and trust me, the results were both eye-opening and encouraging. In this post, I'll share my real-world data and key tips that helped my mint plants thrive, even during a chilly indoor winter.

My experimental overview

   Experimental time: 6 weeks
   Experimental location: Indoor constant temperature environment         (about 20-24°C)
   System type: T9

   Key parameters:

     PH value: Monitored daily and maintained between 5.8 and 6.2
     EC value: Initially set to 1.0–1.2 mS/cm, gradually adjusted to around 1.4 mS/cm as           the plant grows
     Lighting: Use full-spectrum LED lights and maintain 16 hours of light per day                   (simulating natural sunlight, PPFD about 200 μmol/m²/s)
     Dissolved oxygen: Maintained at 6–8 mg/L with the help of an air pump + air stone
     Nutrient solution replacement: Completely replaced every two weeks, and                         supplemented with nutrient solution in a timely manner.

  Experimental data summary:

    Survival rate: 9 out of 10 plants survived with roots (about 90%)
    Average root length: about 15 cm
    Average plant height: about 20 cm
    Average fresh weight: about 80-90 grams per plant
    Leaf performance: dark green color, average number of leaves 9-10 leaves and strong      fragrance

Key success factors:

1.PH and nutrient balance: 

Maintaining a stable pH (5.8–6.2) was crucial. I checked the pH daily using a reliable meter and adjusted it with pH Up/Down solutions as needed. When pH drifted outside this range, my mint leaves began to show slight yellowing—a clear sign that nutrient absorption was compromised.

2. Water temperature and oxygen supply

Keeping the water temperature between 20–24°C was key. I noticed that when the water dipped below 20°C, plant growth slowed down noticeably. Also, with proper aeration using an air pump and air stone, I ensured the dissolved oxygen remained in the optimal 6–8 mg/L range, which prevented any root rot and kept the roots lively.

3. Sufficient light

In my experiment, a full-spectrum LED grow light provided 16 hours of daily light. I observed that when the light duration was reduced (by my occasional trial), the overall biomass decreased by about 15%. This really highlights how important consistent light is for healthy mint growth. 

4. Nutrient solution management

I started with an EC of 1.0–1.2 mS/cm and gradually increased it to about 1.4 mS/cm as the plants matured. Too high an EC (>1.6 mS/cm) led to leaf scorch, while too low (<0.8 mS/cm) resulted in pale, underdeveloped leaves. Regular nutrient adjustments and a full nutrient change every two weeks kept my system balanced.

5. Space and ventilation

Even though mint is a resilient herb, overcrowding can lead to high humidity and poor air circulation, inviting diseases. I spaced my plants about 15–20 cm apart and set up a small fan to gently circulate air. This simple step helped prevent any fungal issues and maintained healthy leaf growth. 

Advantages of DPROOTS Hydroponics System

I experimented with a standard DIY DWC system, but here’s why I think upgrading to a DPROOTS Hydroponic System could make your journey even smoother:

• Automatic water circulation design: DPROOTS systems come with built-in water circulation that ensures oxygen consistency and nutrient distribution.
• Built-in full spectrum LED grow light: Perfect for ensuring your mint gets 16 hours of optimal light without the hassle of setting up separate fixtures.
• Easy-to-monitor water level and nutrient solution windows: These features let you quickly check pH, EC, and water levels without disrupting the system.
• Modular design: Allows for flexible spacing, ensuring good airflow and preventing overcrowding.

 

Growing mint hydroponically isn’t just a fun DIY project—it’s a great way to ensure you always have fresh, aromatic mint on hand, whether for a refreshing tea, a tasty cocktail, or your favorite recipes. With the right balance of pH, nutrients, light, and oxygen, even beginners can enjoy a thriving indoor mint garden. Have you tried hydroponic gardening yet? What challenges have you faced, and what tips would you share? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—we’re all here to grow together! Happy gardening, and here's to a green, sustainable future with DPROOTS! 🌱💚