Step 2- Reservoir:

 A dark or black container is best to prevent light from reaching the nutrient solution, which could lead to algae and fungus gnats. If your container is 'clear or transparent' plastic, wrap a black plastic trash bag around the outside of the container, trim the excess and secure with duct tape; or paint the outside a dark/black color.

Drill a small hole (appx. 3/8" diameter) near the top of one side of the container. Thread one end of the airline hose through the hole and place the airstone to this end - feed enoughhose into the container for the airstone to lay in the center at the bottom (see photo 1).

Hydro system photo 1

Measure about 5 - 7" of hose exiting the container, cut and place check valve onto hose - with arrow on valve facing container, connect remaining hose to the back of the check valve and onto the air pump (see photo 2). *** It is important to have a check valve on your airline !!! It's purpose is to prevent water from back - siphoning into the air pump, causing possible electrical hazards.

Hydro system photo 2

 Lid:

   Mark rows of circles (spacing 1 - 2" apart, depending on the lid size) onto the container lid, making them slightly smaller than the top of the plastic drink cups. Using a utility or Exacto knife, carefully cut out the circles (see photo 3).  **If you are using a 'large' plastic tote for your reservoir, space the circles at least 2" apart - this will help the lid keep it's strength under the weight of all the seed pots.

Hydro system photo 3