As technology advances, we get more efficient gardening methods. One such method that has been creating waves in the gardening community is hydroponics. Even though it is a fairly novel practice, the hydroponics market is already estimated at 5 billion USD. Evidently, it has become a popular choice for gardening in the urban landscape.
But what is so special about this method that people are switching to it so fast? How does it work? Who wins in the hydroponics vs. soil gardening battle? This article will answer all these questions and explain hydroponics gardening in depth.
The Problem with Traditional Gardening
Many gardeners still favor the traditional farming practices. After all, the methods are tried and tested; they are dependable. It’s also about the personal involvement in caring for your soil and tending your plants. It truly nourishes the mind and soul.
However, as urbanization is rising, space has become a huge issue. There are no outdoor areas to grow a soil garden, and it is difficult to maintain a garden in an apartment or balcony. Even for indoor gardens, elaborate planning is involved, and the activity that is supposed to be calming becomes a source of stress.
To combat this problem, people are getting creative with their limited spaces. For instance, rooftop gardens and vertical gardens are all experiments to overcome the space issue. One such alternative idea is hydroponics gardening. It is a great way to grow more plants in a tiny area.
What is Hydroponics Gardening?
Hydroponics refers to the technique of growing plants without soil. Instead, a water-based solution is used to provide nutrients to the plants. The word Hydroponics is made of two Greek words ‘hydro’, meaning water, and ‘ponus’, meaning labor, which is suitable as water is doing all the work.
How does it work?: Essentially, the roots are suspended in a nutrient solution that provides the plants with all the macros and micros. Since all the nourishment is given through water, it eliminates the need for soil. Hydroponics is highly favored in the hydroponics vs. soil gardening discourse since it eliminates the need for soil and a vast space.
5 Types of Hydroponics Gardening Systems
There are many ways you can set up a hydroponics environment at your place. You can choose the system that works best for your space and requirements.
#1 Deep Water Culture
In deep water culture, the plants are suspended over a water supply whereby the roots are submerged in it. The plants derive nutrients from the water solution.
#2 Nutrient Film Technique
Photo Courtesy of Science Direct
This technique involves a shallow stream of water running just parallel to the plants so that they can get nutrients from the water and also get oxygen from the air.
#3 Ebb and Flow
Similar to deep water culture, the roots of the plants are suspended in a water tray which is intermittently flooded with water and then drained.
#4 Aeroponics
In this system, the plants have their roots dangling in the air. A mist of nutrient water is sprayed on the roots periodically.
#5 Drip System
Akin to the traditional drip irrigation system, a pump system drops water directly on the roots.
Plants That Thrive in Hydroponics Gardening
You can grow various plants in your hydroponics system- flowers, fruits, vegetables, or herbs. All plants you can grow in an indoor garden are fair game for this gardening system too. The best part is that you don’t have to wait for the right season to grow a particular plant if your system is indoors. If your garden is outdoors on a balcony or a similar place, you may have to be mindful of flowering seasons. Here are the top picks that fare well in a hydroponics garden.
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Flowers- Hyacinths, Marigolds, Tulips, Carnations, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias
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Fruits- Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries
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Vegetables- Cucumbers, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, Green Beans
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Herbs- Parsley, Mint, Basil, Oregano, Cilantro
[Did you know?: Plants can grow in containers as well. Learn about Container Gardening.]
Hydroponics Vs. Traditional Gardening: The Better Choice for You
Hydroponics is vastly distinct from soil gardening and not just based on the absence of soil. Here are some of the factors that differentiate between hydroponics and traditional gardening methods.
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Yield
Hydroponics gardening has a better yield since the conditions are always under control. Soil gardening is dependent on natural conditions so there is no way to predict the yield.
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Space
Traditional gardening requires more space as compared to hydroponic gardens which are grown vertically and can accommodate more plants in a comparatively smaller area.
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Climate
Traditional gardens are climate-dependent so the plants are also seasonal. On the other hand, any plant can be grown year-round with the hydroponics system.
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Plant Variety
Hydroponics has a limit to the types of plants but soil beds are suitable for all vegetation.
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Water
Even though hydroponics is a water-based gardening system, it uses a lot less water than the traditional method, which requires more water for growing plants.
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Energy
Since hydroponics is an artificial system, it uses more energy as compared to soil gardening.
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Pest and Infection Risk
Any risk of pest infestation or other infections is negligible in hydroponics gardening systems as the environment is controlled at all times. However, soil gardening runs a higher risk of pest attacks.
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Environmental Impact
Hydroponics has a lesser overall impact on water and soil resources. Soil gardening is dependent on these resources.
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Investment
A tradition-favoring argument in the hydroponics vs soil gardening argument would be an investment. The initial cost of setting up a hydroponics system is quite high as compared to a simple soil bed set up. But in the long run, it proves to be a smart fiscal choice due to a potentially lower maintenance cost.
Key Takeaways: What You Must Remember
When it comes to hydroponics vs soil gardening, the former is a better choice for urban localities, thanks to the limited space available for gardening. While it may have a higher cost for set up, it proves to be a smart investment due to its many advantages. Hydroponics requires fewer resources, has a better yield, next to zero chance of infections, and has a positive environmental impact. Let’s Connect!
FAQs
Q1. What is hydroponic gardening, and how does it work?
Hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants without soil by using a nutrient-rich water solution. The roots are directly exposed to essential minerals, promoting faster growth. This method allows precise control over nutrients, pH, and water levels. It is commonly used for vegetables, herbs, and indoor farming.
Q2. What are the main differences between hydroponics and soil gardening?
Hydroponics relies on water-based nutrient delivery, while soil gardening depends on natural soil microbes and organic matter. Hydroponics allows faster plant growth, requires less space, and minimizes pests and weeds. Soil gardening, however, supports more biodiversity and requires less artificial maintenance. Both methods have unique advantages depending on the environment and goals.
Q3. Is hydroponic farming more productive than traditional gardening?
Yes, hydroponics is often more productive due to its controlled environment and efficient nutrient delivery. Plants grow faster, use less water, and produce higher yields compared to soil gardening. The ability to grow crops year-round further enhances productivity. However, success depends on proper system management and maintenance.
Q4. What are the costs associated with hydroponic farming?
Initial costs are high due to equipment like grow lights, pumps, and nutrient solutions. Ongoing costs include electricity, water, nutrients, and maintenance, which vary by system size and type. However, hydroponics can save money in the long run by reducing water use and increasing yields. Costs can be minimized with DIY setups and energy-efficient systems.
Q5. Can hydroponics be used for organic farming?
Organic hydroponics is debated because organic certification traditionally requires soil-based microbial activity. Some hydroponic systems use organic nutrients to meet certain standards, but regulations vary by country. While hydroponic produce can be pesticide-free and eco-friendly, it may not always qualify as "organic." Some organizations are working to define organic hydroponic standards.
