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Hydroponic Systems

Gardening with hydroponics is fast becoming a way of life for some urban dwellers and those with limited land space alike. Gardens can successfully turn out higher yields and tastier produce in considerably less time. Those who grow hydroponically know about the many benefits, and those who are new will be surprised at how effective it can be.

Translated from Latin hydroponic means working water or water labor. While hydroponic gardens have been around for many centuries (think of the hanging gardens of Babylon) it wasn’t until the end of the nineteenth century that the mechanics of hydroponic gardening was understood. Plants achieve nutrients from ions in the water and soil is a reservoir for these nutrients but not essential. Plants can receive these nutrients straight from the water.

Hydroponic gardening can be one of two types: solution culture and medium culture. Solution culture involves suspending the plants in a nutrient solution, where medium culture uses a medium such as gravel or rock wool to support the plant. The plant still receives all its nutrients from the water with either method.

There are a few different set-ups for hydroponic gardening. For small scale gardening most gardeners find a wick system affordable and effective. A wick draws the solution and delvers it directly to the roots. NFT (nutrient film technology) is more effective but requires constantly moving water so the setup will cost a little more.

Drip systems are especially effective because the amount of nutrient solution each plant uses can be controlled and properly adjusted. Allowing plants that need more to receive more without oversupplying another. Drip systems and NFT are most commonly used in large scale farming, but small versions of these systems can be used at home.

Nutrient solutions can come in liquid or powder form. There are also different combinations of nutrients for different plants and for the varying stages of growth. There are solutions for sprouting, flowering, and fruiting. There are even solutions designed to make the colors of a bloom more vivid.

Hydroponic gardening is under appreciated. If third world countries with infertile soil or limited water supply could be given simple hydroponic set-ups they could produce their own crops and ease hunger in those struggling countries. Those who live in urban areas or have no land can grow their own produce using hydroponics as well.

Hydroponics can yield better produce and more of it. The produce is free from soil borne pests and disease. The gardens can grow indoors year round- putting an end to the “growing season” restrictions. The plants receive optimal nutrients because having the roots exposed to oxygen helps the plant absorb them more effectively therefore the plants grow bigger and faster.

The water used to feed the root systems can be constantly recycled so hydroponic systems use considerably less water. The water directly nourishes the root system thus no water is wasted. The lack of soil also means there are no weeds (that can steal water and nutrients) to pull. Without the chemicals needed to control pests the produce also tastes better.

Concerns over soil erosion can also be eliminated with hydroponic gardening. Scientists are even researching using hydroponics in space to not only provide food but also to supply oxygen to astronauts. All of the benefits of hydroponics could lead to a revolution in the way or world produces its food.

At Bchydroponics.com we are committed to providing quality equipment for hydroponic gardeners at affordable prices. Those looking to for more information on this method of gardening can gain a great deal of knowledge from our learning center. We appreciate input and look forward to providing our customers only the best in hydroponic supplies.

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