Building A DIY Cloning Machine

If you’re interested in learning why building a DIY cloning machine for plants might be right for you, keep reading.

We all know that there are certain plants that are practically perfect in every way. Everything about that plant is great, whether that might be how quickly it grows, how it blooms, or even how beautiful its flowers are.

If this is your situation, you may consider investing in a cloning machine to have more plants just like this. The more the merrier, right?

Buying a cloning machine is a great option, but some of us love saving money and working with our hands. That's why we're going to teach you how to build your own DIY cloner. This can save you money that would be better spent on lots of plants!

Keep reading to find out more information on how to build your own DIY cloning machine that will make fellow gardeners jealous!

We will also discuss the difference between aeroponic and bubble cloners, and give you the information you need to decide which one will suit your needs.

Continue reading

Building A DIY Cloning Machine


If you’re interested in learning why building a DIY cloning machine for plants might be right for you, keep reading.

We all know that there are certain plants that are practically perfect in every way. Everything about that plant is great, whether that might be how quickly it grows, how it blooms, or even how beautiful its flowers are.

If this is your situation, you may consider investing in a cloning machine to have more plants just like this. The more the merrier, right?

Buying a cloning machine is a great option, but some of us love saving money and working with our hands. That's why we're going to teach you how to build your own DIY cloner. This can save you money that would be better spent on lots of plants!

Keep reading to find out more information on how to build your own DIY cloning machine that will make fellow gardeners jealous!

We will also discuss the difference between aeroponic and bubble cloners, and give you the information you need to decide which one will suit your needs.

What Is A DIY Cloning Machine?

Before we explain the mechanics of building your own DIY cloner, you may be wondering what it is and what it can be used for. No worries, we have got you covered!

A DIY cloning machine is a system of boxes or cylinders that keep your plant in one place, while also supplying them with things such as nutrients and water.

Cloning your plants is an excellent and more efficient way to grow the types of plants you want. Once you get the hang of it, it’s also relatively easy to do. Our complete guide on how to clone a plant is a great resource if you’re new to this style of propagation.

When you are considering building a DIY cloner, there are two different types you will want to consider: an aeroponic cloner and a bubble cloner. Each of these share similarities and some differences, with both being best suited for different types of gardeners.

DIY Aeroponic Cloner

If you are new to cloning machines and would like to begin with something that is user-friendly, an aeroponic cloner is right up your alley. Not only is it easy to work with, but anyone using a DIY aeroponic cloner should start seeing some root development within only a few days of planting.

There are a few downfalls, however. If you are looking at buying this type of cloner as an alternative to building, do not be surprised when you see that they are much more expensive than other types of plant cloners, including bubble cloners. Buying an aeroponic cloner is a big investment upfront, and that can be a turn-off for many.

It is also important to understand that aeroponic cloners require a fair amount of upkeep, and maintaining one can be time-consuming. However, if you’re willing to put the time into maintaining such a system, then this is a great option to consider.

Simply put - aeroponics systems cultivate the best root systems. This is because of the ideal combination of aeration in the root zone with ultra-concentrated nutrient delivery.

DIY Bubble Cloner

The other main type of cloner is a bubble cloner. The great thing about bubble cloners is that they are cost-effective and will not take long to make! Plus, all the components are basic and easy to find. The simplicity can’t be beat!

Research has shown, however, that there is a difference in success rates between bubble cloners and aeroponic cloners.

While aeroponics cloners have a nearly guaranteed success rate (close to 99-100%), bubble cloners have been found to have about a 95% success rate. This may be worth the risk to you, especially when you consider that the margin there is pretty slim. 95% is still incredible!

Another disadvantage you may find with bubble cloners is that they are not always the easiest to work with. Though they require a bit less upkeep, they can be a bit trickier to operate.

If you are a more experienced gardener who has dealt with cloners in the past, then this may not bother you. If you are new but ready to take on the task, go for it!

Why Build A DIY Cloning Machine?

You may be curious as to why building a DIY cloning machine for your plants is worth your money and time.

For some of us, it is easier to fork out the extra cash and have the cloner arrive at our doorstep in one piece, ready to go. For others, though, there are a few reasons why DIY is preferred.

Saves You Money

Today, many of us are on a tight budget and need to find ways to save money. Gardening is an enjoyable pastime, but it is often not a cheap one. By building your own cloner, you are saving money that you can spend elsewhere on your grow!

When you are building a DIY cloning machine, you typically will not spend more than $50, depending on how high quality of a system you’re hoping to put together.

Options for Customization

Nowadays, there are a wide variety of cloner styles out there. Putting in a little elbow grease and making your own cloner is a wonderful way to ensure you get precisely what you want!

Builds Confidence In Your Gardening Skills

Whether you just started gardening or you are a seasoned professional, there is nothing more satisfying than growing a plant and watching it flourish. When you use a cloner, you will likely find that you have an easier time caring for your plants and keeping them healthy.

Building your own DIY cloning machine is also a confidence booster in and of itself. You will never feel more proud than you will after successfully building something. When you use a DIY plant cloner, you’ll be able to build confidence in your skills as both a gardener and a builder.

What Is Needed To Build A Cloning System?

Before you are ready to build your DIY cloner, it is important to make sure that you have all the parts and pieces needed to assemble the cloner. For this article, we will be discussing the parts needed to build a bubble cloner.

For a bubble cloner, you will need the following:

  • Two bins with a lid (one a dark color, and one a clear color - the darker one needs to be a bit smaller than the clear one)
  • Hose and hose adapter
  • Drill bit
  • Two air stones
  • Neoprene disks
  • Hot glue

Now that you know what supplies you will need, the fun part is here! Keep reading to see how to build the cloner, and what the step-by-step process actually looks like.

Step By Step Guide To Building A DIY Cloner

Step By Step Guide To Building A DIY Cloner

As previously mentioned, we are going to teach you how to build a bubble cloner. This is because the parts are cheaper and more accessible. Follow these steps below:

  1. Cut six holes in the smaller bin. Then, place your disks in the individual holes.
  2. Glue your stones to the bottom of your bin, and make sure that they are positioned so they stay in place.
  3. Add the air pumps to the bin.
  4. Add water.
  5. Place whatever clones from your desired plant into the bin.
  6. Make a hole in the clear bin, put the lid in place, and put your cloner in the lid’s center.

After doing these steps, you are done! You now have a great bubble cloner that will help you grow beautiful plants for any kind of occasion or garden.

Buy A Complete Plant Cloning System

Even though there are many advantages to building your own DIY cloning machine for plants, there is no need to stress about building one if you are not the best crafter.

If you find yourself in this scenario, have no fear!

You can find an excellent selection of premade cloners here at Hydrobuilder, where all of the work is done for you.

There are many wonderful options on this website that will not cost you an arm and a leg and will also save you some time. If you are interested, click the link to find out more!

Final Thoughts On Building A DIY Cloner

When you are deciding on how to improve your garden and growing skills, having a plant cloning machine is a great option.

Building your own DIY cloning system is an excellent way to not only improve your growing skills, but also to save you some extra cash.

If you decide that you want to build a DIY cloner, you need to decide if you want to build an aeroponics cloner or a bubble cloner. Each type of cloner has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to you to decide which one would work best for your situation and environment.

Remember- it is okay if it is not perfect. Every gardener, new or old, will make mistakes in the planting process, and it is trial and error that helps you become a better planter. There is not a better time than now to start trying.

Of course, if you decide that building your own cloner is not the best option for you, you can always choose from the wide selection of cloners at Hydrobuilder.

Have questions about your grow? We're Here To Help!

Our Northern California based experts can help. We're here to make sure you get what you need to maximize your harvest.

888-815-9763

or Email an expert

© 2011-2024 Hydrobuilder.com - 500 Orient Street Suite 150, Chico, CA 95928 USA

All trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective trademark holders.

20.20.3