Hydroponic plants are grown without soil. Instead of soil, their roots are suspended in a nutrient-rich water solution.
Here’s a breakdown:
- How it works:
- Nutrient Solution: A carefully balanced mixture of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is dissolved in water.
- Root Support: The roots are supported by an inert medium like rockwool, perlite, or gravel. This medium provides structural support but doesn’t contribute any nutrients.
- Delivery Methods:
- Deep Water Culture (DWC): Roots are submerged in a continuously oxygenated nutrient solution.
- Ebb and Flow: The growing medium is periodically flooded with the nutrient solution and then allowed to drain.
- Aeroponics: Roots are suspended in the air and misted with nutrient solution.
- Benefits of Hydroponics:
- Space Efficiency: Can be grown vertically in smaller spaces.
- Water Conservation: Uses significantly less water than traditional soil-based methods.
- Pest and Disease Control: Reduced risk due to the sterile growing environment.
- Faster Growth: Plants can grow faster and produce higher yields.
- Year-Round Production: Can be grown indoors, regardless of the season.
- Commonly Grown Hydroponic Plants:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
- Herbs (basil, mint, etc.)
- Leafy Greens (spinach, kale)
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