thanks for those really great tips guys i really appreciate the help.my resovior is measured in litres but its a 50 litre bucket, its not massive or anything as i only plan to grow 4 from now on. im just having troubles finding the right pump as the one i have is way to powerful, its like a jet.

i got loads of timer swtches laying about so im good on that one
i tried using the ionic hydro nutes with canna coco soil (what a disaster) it was a real nightmare turning the plant totally yellow and it holds way too much water for way too long, canna coco is a load of crap and i'd never use it again. hmm i wonder if it would be any good for a cat litter tray anyway ive made my mind up now its gonna be hydroponics all the way for me now especially after seeing some results on some vids thanks again for the help im taking notes so i dont mess up this time