The degree of complexity of a hydroponic system can vary from the simple wick or the inexpensive ebb and flow systems of the home gardener, to the complex and expensive aeroponic system of the commercial farmer. But all of these systems have something in common; they are all very efficient methods of growing plants.
Controlling the Growing Environment
In nature, plant growth depends on many external factors, such as the type of nutrients found in the soil, or the amount of water the plants receive. Someone growing plants the traditional way in soil can find it difficult to regulate such external factors. The hydroponics gardener, on the other hand, has total control over the growing environment of plants. In an indoor hydroponic system, the gardener can control the amount and duration of the light, contents and concentration of nutrient solution and the area available for growth.
Watering a Hydroponic Garden
It is impossible to over water a hydroponic garden since the plant will only absorb the water it needs to grow. This means the gardeners can water the plants as often they like. With the traditional method of growing in soil, the farmer has to be careful not to over water to plants as the soil can become waterlogged, causing the roots to rot.
Watering traditionally grown crops can result in a lot of water wastage from water running down into the soil or simply running off the land into a stream or river. Hydroponic systems optimize water usage since the water can be recycled over and over again without significant wastage.
Hydroponic Gardening is Better for the Environment
Hydroponic systems require less pest control since a good percentage of pests are found in the soil. Less pests means less pesticides, which means less pollution to the environment from pesticides contaminating groundwater and rivers.
Fertilizers are re-circulated within the hydroponic system and are not leaked out into the environment as with traditional farming method.
Hydroponics are Better for the Consumer
Hydroponically grown vegetables have also been shown to be healthier for consumers as they typically contain more vitamins and minerals than field grown produce. This is because the nutrients and the growing environment can be better regulated within the hydroponic system, compared to traditional growing methods
The hydroponic growing systems are more efficient, better for the environment and he consumers health than are traditional growing methods. A good reason indeed for setting up a hydroponics system, even if it is in the back yard.
Advantages of Hydroponics Gardening
An Introduction to General Hydroponics
How to Create a Hydroponics Garden
Source:
“Hydroponics, the complete guide” by Dudley Harris, pages 20 - 40, published by New Holland Publishing, 1992 edition.
Fleur Hupston - Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer based in Botswana, Southern Africa. From this unique perspective, she writes travel ...
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