An ebb and flow hydroponics system employs one or more containers for growing plants. Each container has a top and bottom, with a drain in the bottom and an overflow near the top. A return system connects the drains and overflow lines to a reservoir. The nutrient solution is delivered through gravity assist from the containers to the reservoir. A pump is connected to the reservoir and delivers nutrient solution under pressure to the containers. The solution is delivered at or near the top of each container to provide a top-feed ebb and flow system. Each container contains pea gravel, or other similar, nonporous material capable of supporting heavy plants, while providing optimal growing conditions. Fill and drain cycle time is also controlled for optimal growing conditions. Temperature and evaporation is controlled in part by placing the reservoir and a portion of the return system underground.