Net Pots & Net Cups for Hydroponic Systems
Net pots and net cups are the standard plant support containers in most hydroponic systems. Their mesh or webbed plastic construction serves two functions that solid containers cannot: they allow nutrient solution to flow freely in and out of the root zone, and they provide lateral aeration that encourages root development and air pruning — the natural process by which roots that extend beyond the container are pruned by exposure to air, stimulating a denser, more productive root mass inside the container.
Net Pot Sizes: 2“ to 10“ for Every System Type
Hydrobuilder stocks net pots and cups in sizes from 2 inches up to 10 inches to match every system configuration. The correct size is determined by your system’s grow site dimensions — simply measure the opening in your DWC lid, ebb and flow tray, or NFT channel. Smaller 2–3 inch pots are standard for propagation and seedling stages, NFT channels, and lettuce-style systems. Mid-size 3.75–6 inch pots fit most DWC and ebb and flow systems and support medium to large plants. Larger 6–10 inch containers support full-size fruiting plants in DWC and flood-and-drain setups where root mass demands more volume. Square net pots fit tightly in flood table layouts and maximize plant density per square foot of grow tray.
Net Pots Across System Types
Net pots are the standard container in DWC systems, where they hold plant stems above the solution while roots grow freely down into the reservoir. In ebb and flow systems, they hold growing media and plant roots while flood cycles deliver nutrients from below. In aeroponic systems, they support stems while roots hang freely in the misting chamber. In drip systems, net pots filled with clay pebbles or rockwool can replace standard plastic containers. Neoprene inserts are available for net pots used in cloning machines, providing a soft, reusable collar that holds cuttings securely during propagation.
Growing Media for Net Pots
Net pots work with any inert hydroponic growing medium. Clay pebbles (hydroton) are the most common choice for DWC and ebb and flow — excellent drainage, reusable, and pH-neutral. Rockwool starter plugs or cubes inserted into net pots allow seedlings or clones to transplant directly from propagation into the main system without disturbing root development.
Browse our full hydroponic grow media collection for clay pebbles, rockwool, and coco, or explore complete hydroponic systems to find net pot sizing for your setup. Fast shipping.
