Did you know that with Hydroponics you don’t even need soil in order to have an amazing garden?
It’s true! If you lack outdoor space but have suitable room in your home or another building, or if the climate and soil where you are just aren’t suitable for gardening, then hydroponics might be the answer. You can grow strawberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce and even orchids!
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants, from flowers to vegetables, without the use of soil.
Instead, mineral nutrient solutions are infused into water. Plants grown in this manner may have their roots suspended directly into the advanced nutrients, or they may be placed into what’s known as an inert medium. That is: perlite, gravel, mineral wool, clay pebbles or even coconut husks.
While hydroponics may seem like a high-tech and modern method of growing, early inroads were in fact made back in the 18th century. It was then that researchers discovered essential mineral nutrients and ions that existed in water. As a result of these early discoveries, it was later learned that while soil acts as a reservoir for minerals and advanced nutrients, dirt itself isn’t essential for plants to grow.
Speaking of advanced nutrients, those commonly used in hydroponics are of inorganic and ionic origins, and dissolved into the water. Formulas may include positively charged ions of calcium, magnesium and potassium, as well as other solutions of nitrates, sulfates and dihydrogen phosphate.
For those just starting out with this method of growing, the solutions may seem complicated..
but many commercial manufacturers sell pre-mixed blends of chemicals and macro-nutrients for hydroponic hobbyists. These can be great go-to products for those not inclined to start experimenting with their own concoctions.
It’s important to note that not all hydroponic gardening methods are organic. Therefore, if staying all natural is essential for you, it’s a great idea to do some research in advance. A little reading ahead of time will ensure you pick advanced nutrients solutions that are organic. They typically contain microorganisms and organic fertilizers.
Many hydroponic gardeners use LED grow lights to aid in the growth and production of their plants. These can range from simple and affordable bulbs for casual hobbyists to elaborate setups for commercial agricultural endeavors. LED grow lights came into popularity approximately 10 years ago, thanks to their potential to boost growth and reduce energy costs. While initially expensive, they have come down in price significantly in recent times.
While it is certainly possible to have a successful hydroponic endeavor without LEDs, they are increasingly popular for indoor growing, when other sources of light are inconsistent or impossible. The electromagnetic spectrum they emit makes photosynthesis possible, and therefore plants can grow.
LED grow lights can either provide a light spectrum similar to the sun, or tailored to the needs of particular plants.
There are even lights available for certain stages of cultivation, ranges of spectrum, colour temperature and photoperiod.
When beginning any hydroponic gardening project, it’s a great idea to research and plan in advance. As excited as you are to get started, it’ll save you time, money and frustration. Then, start off small. It is always easier to do a little bit and add to it as you become more adept than to take on a big project and risk feeling overwhelmed! I did lots of reading and found some great sites. this one is one of the first I used, it helped me immensely. Hope it helps you too…remember, have fun and be patient with the art of Hydroponics, it will be worth it!
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