I use a PVC type flood and drain system. I use a net pot system which allows for interchangeability with my germination station, which does use
fluorescent lights in combination with an NFT type system. I haven't been able to get consistent starts without lights, but I do not have much room to experiment outdoors.
I am not entirely invested into the Time reduction of growing hydroponically, but more interested into the ease of the grow, reuse of water, and the reduced amount of care due to automation associated with hydroponics.
The corn I am using are ancient hybrid
seeds of poor quality that a friend gave me (about 4% germination rate) but the 2 that germinated have done well once placed in the urine environment. I am new to corn, but am thinking of purchasing some quality seeds to see what they can do.
All I can say is urine is king when it comes to free fertilizer in hydroponic solutions.