Water pump question for the Bubbleheads!

Hey there, I am currently gathering the components for my first grow which I plan to try using bubbleponics (I know some would advise against hydro for first time but I am ambitious).

I was originally going to just go with a DWC setup but after reading Roseman's DIY bublleponics Tutorial thread and seeing some of the results I changed my mind, heh.

Anyway I was just wondering at what point is the water pump too powerful? I know that question seems vague as I am sure there are many variables to consider. The reason I ask is that there are only two kinds of pumps at my local store one that is only 80 G/h and the other is almost 400 G/h (which is also on sale and actually cheaper than the 80 G/h!)!

My setup to start will be a stealth grow in about a 25 Gallon bin with about 4 - 6 plants under about 350 watts of CFLs.

If anyone could provide some guidance for me or suggestions on how I could modify the flow rate of the larger pump (maybe by splitting the flow?) I would much appreciate it.

Happy toking!

MHS

I use a 240gph and it has a constant flow of water coming out of the feeder tubes but I also have 8 ten inch airstones that keep it highly oxygenated. I think the 400 would probably drown seedlings but if you have the manifold hub from stealth hydro you could adjust the pressure and maybe slow it down enough but I am not sure. I also think that the 80 would get clogged easily with roots.

polishfalcon420 said:

I use a 240gph and it has a constant flow of water coming out of the feeder tubes but I also have 8 ten inch airstones that keep it highly oxygenated. I think the 400 would probably drown seedlings but if you have the manifold hub from stealth hydro you could adjust the pressure and maybe slow it down enough but I am not sure. I also think that the 80 would get clogged easily with roots.

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Thanks for the reply polishfalcon!

Yes those were concerns of mine.

Should I assume that it is more about proper oxygenation of the water rather than the flow rate that is important to the seedlings (within reasonable levels that is)?

I might actually just spring for something on the net just to stay within observed parameters that I have seen in other threads since this is my first time. Better to be safe I guess, but it will delay things by a couple of weeks.

MHS