From Seed to Harvest: Building a Hydroponic System with Residents of RW 14 Ampel Village

The construction of a hydroponic system marked the first step in introducing sustainable vegetable cultivation to residents of RW 14 Ampel Village.

Surabaya, May 31, 2026 — As part of a community service program organized by Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya under the supervision of Ir. Masca Indra Triana, S.T., M.T., M.S.M., students collaborated with residents of RW 14 Ampel Village to introduce and implement a hydroponic cultivation system. Conducted at the RW 14 Community Hall, the activity focused on the practical stages of hydroponic farming, from seed germination to plant maintenance.

The program began with the preparation of planting materials and the introduction of vegetable varieties suitable for hydroponic cultivation, including water spinach (kangkung), spinach (bayam), pakcoy, basil (kemangi), mustard greens (caisim), and lettuce. These crops were selected because they adapt well to hydroponic systems and are commonly consumed by households.

The first cultivation stage involved seed germination using rockwool as a growing medium. Small pieces of rockwool were moistened with water before seeds were placed into pre-made holes. The rockwool provided a stable environment for seed development by retaining moisture while allowing sufficient air circulation. Residents learned how to maintain appropriate conditions during the germination period to encourage healthy root formation.

Once the seedlings developed roots and several leaves, they were ready to be transferred into net pots. During this stage, participants carefully moved the seedlings while ensuring that the roots remained intact. The net pots were then placed into the hydroponic system, allowing the roots to access nutrient-rich water necessary for growth.

The hydroponic installation utilized a simple cultivation system designed to be easily replicated at the household level. Participants learned how water and nutrients circulate through the system and how proper nutrient management plays a critical role in plant development. Regular monitoring of water levels and plant conditions was emphasized as part of routine maintenance.

Residents were also introduced to essential plant care practices, including checking nutrient availability, observing leaf development, and identifying signs of plant stress. These maintenance activities are important to ensure healthy growth and maximize crop productivity throughout the cultivation period.

Demonstration plots of water spinach and lettuce allowed participants to directly observe plant growth within the hydroponic system. The visible development of these vegetables provided practical examples of how hydroponic cultivation can be implemented successfully in areas with limited land availability.

The completed outdoor hydroponic system demonstrates a practical approach to sustainable vegetable cultivation in urban communities.

Through this activity, residents gained hands-on experience in hydroponic farming and a better understanding of sustainable food production. The initiative demonstrated that with simple materials, proper maintenance, and community participation, hydroponic cultivation can become an effective solution for urban households seeking to produce fresh vegetables in a limited space.