So What is Hydroponic's ?

So What is Hydroponic's ?
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So What is Hydroponic's ?

A Beginner's intro into Hydroponic' s ?

Hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution, either directly or with the use of inert media, such as perlite or coconut coir. This technique of farming has become increasingly popular over the years due to its numerous benefits, including increased yield and reduced use of water and fertilizers.

In this blog post we will take a closer look and discuss the history, benefits, and modern equipment used within hydroponic gardening.

A Brief History of Hydroponic Gardening:

The concept of hydroponics dates to ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs, who used floating gardens to grow crops on the waters of Lake Tenochtitlan. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that modern hydroponics was developed. In the 1930s, researchers at the University of California began experimenting with growing plants in a nutrient solution, this technique gained popularity in the 1950s, when the US Air Force started using hydroponics to grow fresh produce for its troops stationed in remote locations. Since then, hydroponic gardening has become increasingly popular for both commercial and hobbyist farmers.

Hanging Garden's of Babylon Hydroponic Garden

Benefits of Hydroponic Gardening:

  • More control, become mother nature.
  • Increased Yield: With hydroponic gardening, plants can grow up to 50% faster than traditional soil-based farming, resulting in increased yields.
  • Water Conservation: Hydroponic gardening uses up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods, as water is reused and recycled in the system.
  • No Soil Erosion: Soil erosion is a major concern in traditional farming, but it is not a problem with hydroponic gardening.
  • Pesticide and Herbicide Reduction: Hydroponic gardening systems are typically closed environments, which means that there is no need for harmful pesticides and herbicides.
  • 24/7 Year-Round Growing: Hydroponic gardening can be done year-round, regardless of weather conditions, making it an ideal option for regions with harsh climates.

A Modern HYdroponic Lettuce Garden

Modern Equipment Used in todays Hydroponic Gardening

  • Grow Lights: Since hydroponic gardening is typically done indoors, artificial grow lights are needed to provide the necessary light for plant growth.
  • Nutrient Solutions: Hydroponic gardening relies on nutrient-rich water solutions to provide the necessary nutrients for plant growth.
  • pH Testers: The pH level of the nutrient solution must be carefully monitored to ensure optimal plant growth.
  • Growing Mediums: Inert media such as perlite, vermiculite, and coconut coir are commonly used in hydroponic gardening to support plant growth.
  • Water Pumps and Filters: Hydroponic gardening requires a pump to circulate the nutrient solution and a filter to remove any debris and maintain the cleanliness of the system.

Conclusion's

Hydroponic gardening is a sustainable and efficient way to grow plants without soil. With increased yields, reduced water usage, and no need for harmful pesticides, it's easy to see why hydroponic gardening is gaining popularity. With modern equipment such as grow lights, nutrient solutions, pH testers, growing mediums, and water pumps and air pumps, hydroponic gardening has become easier and more accessible than ever before.