Abstract: The following disclosure relates to a valve assembly for allowing filling and draining of a container with a liquid, preferably for use in growing plants, the valve comprising: a filling catchment containing at least one opening for receiving liquid and at least one drainage orifice, the filling catchment being located within the container; a draining outlet adapted to convey liquid out of the container; a plugging member configured to move between a first position where the plugging member allows liquid to flow into the draining outlet and a second position where the plugging member prevents liquid from flowing through the draining outlet; and a biasing member which acts to retain the plugging member in the first position unless a force is applied above a predetermined value. Also provided are systems including and methods of using said valve assembly.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a hydroponic unit (2) and system (1) for growing crops, the unit being modular to allow different containers and growing conditions within the unit, and the system being modular to allow multiple units to share common power and water requirements. The unit and system aim to provide a more efficient and easier to use hydroponic operation. The unit includes an adjustable framework and manifold in each unit for receiving containers of a first or second type, and the system includes a support structure (4) including module bases (3) for each unit and a water control module for the system. Also provided are growing columns for use within the hydroponic unit.