All About Hydroponics

As we learn about hydroponic gardening in a fun and hands-on way, we may want to talk together about how the science works! For our project, we are mostly using self-contained systems. These are designed for home-based use but have SCIENCE behind them that is really cool to understand.

Hydroponic gardening is a way of growing plants without soil, whereby the necessary water and nutrients are provided through a specially formulated nutrient-rich water solution. 

This results in faster growth rates and higher yield for plants while at the same time avoiding the need for pesticides, negative weather impact, and pest infestation. 

At Growing Inside Together, our goal is to break down the steps of hydroponic gardening in an easy and fun way.  

Here we go on our hydroponic gardening journey! 

First, you must choose the type of system to use. Considerations are availability, ease, and cost. There are three main types:

1.  Aeroponics: In this system, the Roots are suspended in the air, and a nutrient mist is sprayed onto them.

2.  Deep Water Culture (DWC): In DWC systems, plants are suspended in the nutrient solution, and roots are submerged in oxygenated water.

3.  Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): In an NFT, there is a film of nutrient solution that flows over the roots through a shallow channel.

4.  Drip System: This means that the nutrient solution is provided to roots via special drip emitters.

5.  Wick System: In this type of hydroponic garden, the nutrient solution is drawn up into the growing medium by a wick.

Next, you must decide on the growing medium. Remember, hydroponics do not use soil, so there must be a medium to support the plants. We will review different options, such as hydroponic rock, wool cubes, coconut coir, perlite, or vermiculite. The goal of the proper medium is to provide stability and help to maintain moisture around the roots.

The next step is to decide what kind of nutrient solution to use. This consists of water mixed with specific hydroponic fertilizers to provide plants with essential nutrients like potassium, calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace elements. These nutrients must be carefully monitored and adjusted based on the plant type, growth stage, and environmental conditions.

Now that all of the above has been completed, you have a hydroponic garden! Remember these steps to tender your garden and help it to flourish:

Monitor pH levels: There is a delicate balance to make sure the environment is not too acidic or basic. The ideal solution should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.5. 

Provide Adequate Oxygen: The ideal range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) is suitable for most hydroponic crops.

Ensure Adequate Lighting: Special artificial lighting is used to provide a light spectrum for plants' photosynthesis. It is important that the amount, intensity, and duration of light are carefully balanced.  

Watch For Growth: Now it is time to enjoy the fun! As the plants start to grow, harvest them depending on the type of crop. 

I am here for you and your family to monitor the progress anytime!

Your Hydroponic Gardener,

Lucas