Spider Farmer 2-Bucket DWC Hydroponics Kit for Tomatoes and Chillies

This Spider Farmer DWC hydroponics kit grows two big plants in bubbling, oxygen-rich water instead of soil. It is a brilliant way to grow generous tomatoes, chillies or courgettes in a conservatory, greenhouse or bright corner.

DWC stands for deep water culture. The roots hang into the water, an air pump keeps it fizzing with oxygen, and a drip ring waters young plants from the top until their roots reach down. It is simple, tidy and fascinating to watch.

A two-plant DWC hydroponics kit for big, happy crops

Each 7 gallon (26.5 litre) bucket holds plenty of water, so the plants drink deeply without daily top-ups. The flip-up triangle lid lets you check and refill without lifting the plant, and the level tube shows the water at a glance.

Children love seeing the white roots grow through the net cup. It turns a summer of tomatoes into a living science lesson.

What you can grow in DWC buckets

• Cordon or bush tomatoes, one per bucket
• Chillies and sweet peppers
• Courgettes, cucumbers and aubergines
• Big leafy plants such as kale and chard

How the Spider Farmer buckets work

• Two 26.5 litre buckets. Tough polypropylene, 30.2 × 30.2 × 50cm, with a deep, stable water supply.
• Triangle flip lid. Open one corner to add water, check levels or test without disturbing roots.
• Powerful 8W air pump. Four outlets at up to 63.4 gallons an hour each keep the water full of oxygen.
• Adjustable drip rings. Top watering for seedlings, so they settle in before roots reach the water.
• Check valves. Stop water running back into the pump during a power cut.

DWC hydroponics questions

Is DWC hydroponics good for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the simplest systems: a bucket, an air pump and a net cup. Keep the pump running and top up the water, and plants grow quickly.

Can you grow tomatoes hydroponically at home?
Absolutely. Tomatoes love the steady water and oxygen. Give them a sunny spot or a grow light, and support tall varieties with a cane.

How often should you change the water in a DWC bucket?
Most growers refresh it every one to two weeks, topping up with fresh water in between.

Does it come with a light?
No. Place it in a greenhouse, conservatory or sunny room, or pair it with a grow light.

The details

What’s in the kit

In the box

Every part listed above. Plants and nutrients are sold separately. Rinse the clay pebbles before use.

Two buckets, two big plants and a summer of picking. Lovely.