A Birdseye View into the Different Types of Hydroponic Growing Systems

Hydroponic gardening is the way of the future for environmentally controlled

agriculture. Hydroponic gardening eliminates soil borne pests and diseases
and maximizes water and nutrient uptake by the plant. Incredible yields can
be achieved in a relatively small space with hydroponic systems. There are
many types of hydroponic systems available for home and commercial use.

These systems include the Europonic Rockwood System, the Ebb and Flow
System, Aeroponic Systems, Continuous Drip Systems, and Rockwool Based
Systems. Hydroponic systems come in all shapes and sizes and can be
adapted for nearly any budget.

Nutrient Film Technique, or NFT, is another popular system. The plants are
held in troughs with nutrient solution constantly trickling over the roots. A
reservoir with a pump that is submersible re-circulates the nutrient solution
continually, pumping the solution to the top of the troughs to trickle back
through the system. Larger Nutrient Film Technique systems are used
commercially, both abroad and in the United States. When choosing a
Nutrient Film Technique system, care must be taken to choose the correct
trough size.

Large commercial systems use wider troughs with greater flow capacity.
Aeroponics is a system in which the plants roots are suspended in air. They
are excellent for growing herbs and leafy vegetables. The plants are held in
web pots with neoprene inserts to support the plant. Different hold
configurations in the top cover provide the proper spacing. Aeroponic
systems are also great propagators. The seedlings can be germinated in
rockwool then transferred directly to the web pots.

The Europonic System is modeled after commercial systems that are used in
Europe. A basic system has three trays and holds eight plants each. The
system may also be expanded to five trays if desired. A nutrient solution is
pumped from a thirty-gallon reservoir to individual emitters at each plant.
The solution trickles through the rockwool, over the roots, and back to the
reservoir where it is re-circulated on a constant basis. Rockwool, or mineral

wool, is the most popular and highly used hydroponic medium. It is made
from spun material fibers and has a high water and air holding capacity.

The Europonic System uses rockwool slabs with two slabs fitting into each
tray. Rockwool is easily able to support a relatively extensive root system so
the Europonic System is ideal for vine crops such as tomatoes, cucumber,
and peppers, plus large flowering plants.

In a continuous drip system, a single pot is used with a two-gallon reservoir

underneath. The system acts like a percolator as air is pumped down a
vertical shaft, creating pressure, and nutrient solution is forced up another
tube. A drip ring constantly irrigates the substrate, and the nutrient solution
drains back into the reservoir. This type of system is easy to use,
inexpensive, and great for individual experimentation. However, it is
impractical for most commercial applications. Ebb and flow systems are also
popular in hydroponics. They are good for crops such as lettuce, pepper
plants, miniature tomatoes, and potted flowers.

As the water evaporates between flooding, the salts are left behind as a
residue and may rise to toxic levels. It is best to flush the system with pure
water periodically to take away any toxic salt buildup.

Aero-Hydroponics A New Way of Growing

Aero-hydroponics is a method of growing in which oxygen is infused into

nutrient solution. This method uses rockwool, net pot, vine clips, and other
devices to support plants while their roots grow in the air under a constant
mist of nutrient solution. This allows the roots of the plants to absorb
nutrients faster and easily. This facilitates rapid growth and great crop yields.
Aero-hydroponics can be used for plants and vegetables including
strawberries, melon, cucumbers, and many others. Aero-hydroponics is more
complicated and harder to understand than other hydroponics methods.

However, aero-hydroponics is a new better way of growing fresh healthy

crops. The equipment required for aero-hydroponics is more complicated than
other methods, but there is an advantage to the aero-hydroponic method.

The aero-hydroponics system is the most advanced hydroponic method

available. Using an aero-hydroponics system will give many hydroponics
gardeners the chance to enhance their gardens further. Plants grow better in
an aero-hydroponics system. Dissolved oxygen at the root boundary zone
enables aero-hydroponically plants to grow better than others. In aerohydroponics, the nutrient solution is sprayed through the air in order to infuse
the nutrient with dissolved oxygen. Once the system is set up, it will run
indefinitely without any additional investments in disposable components
such as growing media and non-recirculating nutrients.

Aero-hydroponic systems can be built using various materials, and are able to
be configured in numerous designs. An example of some aero-hydroponics is
a stand-alone module that supports four plants in ten liters of nutrient
solution. In this system an electric motor is mounted on the top of the unit
and it spins a nutrient sprayer, which lifts nutrient solution and sprays it unto
the aerial roots. The rotation of the sprayer causes the nutrient within the
unit to stir, moving it constantly over the submerged roots. Some commercial
aero-hydroponic system consists of canals or growing chambers with plant
sites on top.

Both of these systems share fundamentals of the aero-hydroponics method.

In both systems the plants are supported above the flowing nutrient, and the
roots hang down through an air gap in which the nutrient is sprayed, then
into the moving nutrient solution below the air gap. The nutrient being
sprayed through the air gap is intended to infuse the oxygen into the nutrient
solution wherein the feeder roots are constantly submerged. The submerged
roots in the oxygen rich nutrient provide most of the nutrition and oxygen for
the plant.

There are several aero-hydroponics systems that can be installed in

consumer residential homes. The AeroFlo system is a system that consists of
a reservoir place below the growing chambers, which support the plants. In
this system the nutrient is changed every two weeks and the pH level is
adjusted to 5.5 to 6.5 and nutrient conductivity is maintained at 800 to 1200
ppm. In this system since there is no growing medium, pH remains stable and
only requires adjustment when mixing fresh nutrient.

The costs of constructing and installing the aero-hydroponics system, and

complications of obtaining licensing, have deterred many farmers from using
the method. However, many growers have been willing to invest in aerohydroponics systems, because theyve become aware of the capabilities and
value of the system.

Aero-hydroponics can give several benefits to dedicated growers. The method

is improving the face of hydroponics, and if accepted by commercial growers
it will only expand further.

Cloning Methods that You Can Duplicate on your Own in Hydroponics

If you have been growing plants with success it may be time to expand your
garden by cloning plants. Cloning is a simple process to propagate plants
and it is relatively inexpensive. The basic process of plant propagation is
cutting a piece of the plant you want to propagate and then planting it in
balanced nutrient rich soil.

Hydroponic gardeners can also propagate plants and omit the step where
they plant the cutting in soil. Many plants can be propagated without the use
of soil anyway.

The advantage to propagating plants from cuttings is that you will get a plant
that is genetically identical to the parent plant. The disadvantage is that not
all plants can be propagated from cuttings. An example of a plant that does
not root easily is the Eucalyptus plant.

Preparing a plant for the cutting method is simple. Plant tips should be
collected either early in the morning or late in the evening. The tips should
be at least 8-12cm long. Once you have your cutting, carefully remove the
lower third of the leaves from the stem. Make sure that the bottom cut is just
below a node on the stem. Place the cutting in a rooting medium and cover
the cut according to the manufacturers directions. Alternately, many plants
can be propagated in plain untreated water without rooting hormone.

Hydroponic gardeners can use another method for cloning their existing
plants. First, decide which plants that you want to take cuttings from and
leach out the nitrogen from those plants by watering them heavily for 2-3
days before you will clone them.

The second thing hydroponic gardeners will need to do in the cloning process
is to decide on which growing medium they will use. Popular rooting medium
choices include rockwool, Rapid Rooters or oasis cubes. You will then need to
prep your growing medium with distilled water. Allow the medium so soak for
24 hours before use.

When you are ready to collect the cuttings, prep the growing medium first by
cutting a small hole in them that is slightly larger than the cuttings are. If
you force the stems into the growing medium you may damage them and
they wont take root.

The cuttings should be taken from the parent plant with a sharp razor blade.
Hydroponic gardeners usually treat the razor blaze with alcohol before use as
well as the container that they will use to place the rooting hormone in. As
with other propagation methods, the cutting should be 8-12cm long. After
the cutting is removed from the plant, quickly dip it in the rooting hormone.
Manufacturers directions vary with rooting hormone so be sure to follow
them exactly to get the best results from your cuttings.

Finally, place the cutting in the growing medium, leaving a small area in the
bottom for the roots to develop (dont push the cutting all the way to the
bottom of the medium). Gently pack the medium all the way around your
cutting to support it.

Propagating plants can be a fun and economical way to expand your

gardening enterprise. Cloning is a great way to take your interest in growing
plants to the next level.

Common Nutrients that Every Growing Hydroponic Plant Needs

No matter what type of garden that is grown plants need the same nutrients.
The way these nutrients are supplied is the difference. For example,
hydroponic planting requires a different method of supplying nutrients to
plants than does the traditional soil planting method.

In hydroponic gardening, the fertilizer that is given to plants has all the
nutrients that plants need. In soil gardening, the fertilizer used for plants
does not contain all the nutrients needed, because some of them are in the
soil.

Some of the major nutrients that plants need are listed as follows:

Nitrogen: This nutrient helps promote the growth of new leaves on plants.

Phosphorous: Roots of plants mostly need this material to help support the
plant. In addition, this material helps aid the plant blooming process.

Potassium: This mineral helps build a plants immune system. In addition,

Potassium also helps a plant to grow in extreme cold and heat.

Sulfur: This substance aids in giving leaves a rich dark green color.

Calcium: This nutrient along with phosphorous helps the roots of plants to
grow. It also aids in helping new shoots of plants to grow as well.

Magnesium: This is what helps produce the chlorophyll, the substance that
gives plants its green color and helps the plant to absorb sunlight in order to
make food.

The above list of plant nutrients needed is commonly known as

macronutrients. The three most important of these is usually thought of to be

the Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium. However, all of these help aid in
successful plant growth.

Other plant nutrients needed are commonly known as micronutrients, which

are usually needed in smaller numbers than the macronutrients. These
include Boron (B), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe) manganese (Mn),
molybdenum (Mo), and zinc (Zn).

When plants receive the right nutrients they are able to produce their own
food. This is done by way of a process of photosynthesis, which happens with
the use of elements such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and light. This
produces carbohydrates, which supplies energy for plants, and oxygen is a
by-product which is necessary for all living creatures.

Ordinarily roots will absorb water that a plant needs in order for that plant to
live and grow. This process is called osmosis. However, if too many nutrients
are added to the growing medium (i.e. peat moss, gravel) or too many
nutrients are added to the plants water supply, it could burn the roots of
plants up and/or dry them out (reverse osmosis instead of osmosis).

Much more is involved in the process of growing plants the hydroponics way
than what is mentioned in this article. You can read other articles like this one
to help educate your self more thoroughly about this process. In addition, you
can read other online or print material that is dedicated to the study of
hydroponics.

This type of gardening has become more and more widely accepted. In fact,
even commercial crop producers are using the hydroponic method. It may
cost more initially. However, the production rate of this type of gardening is
thought of to be well worth for many farmers. In addition, many hobby
gardeners can enjoy the fact that they can make this garden indoors in a
small space.

Defining and Preventing Root Rot in your Hydroponic Garden

Root rot is a common yet unwelcome pest in any hydroponic garden. This
fungus-like organism Pythium has many species. The three most common
species of this organism are Pythium irregulare, Pythium aphanidermatum,
and Pythium ultimum. These species of Pythium can be found in water
sources as well as in soil. Pythium aphanidermatum is most commonly found
in Poinsettia plants and few other plants.

Pythium aphanidermatum and Pythium irregulare cause the most damage in

ebb and flow systems because the organism has a swimming spore stage
that can attack your plants quickly. Pythium ultimum is most closely
associated with soil and sand though it is not as prevalent as the other
species of this organism.

The Pythium organism is found in pond and stream water as well as the
sediment from these sources. The organism can also be found in soil and
sand as well as in the dead roots of plants. Pythium can also be introduced to
your plants through dirty gardening tools, can be carried by pets walking into
your growing room and by being carried by the fungus gnat and shorefly.

Symptoms of root rot include stunted plant growth, plants that turn yellow
and die, wilted plants that recover at night, root tips that are brown and
brown tissue on the outer portion of the root that can be pulled away
exposing plant tissue.

Treating the disease is harder than preventing it. Prevention methods include
treating pond or other untreated water before you use it to irrigate your
plants. It is especially important to filter untreated water to avoid getting
sediment into your irrigation system. Slow sand filtration systems have been
shown effective in controlling this organism. Other water treatment plans
include heating the water, the use of ultraviolet light, ozonation or
chlorination, all of which can stop the organism before it attacks your plants.

It is important to keep all things within a grow room clean to prevent infection
from this organism. Benches, tools, equipment, reservoirs and floors should
all be cleaned periodically to avoid contamination. Keep pets out of your
grow room to prevent contamination as they can track the organism in on

their paws and leave it on your floors and benches where it can be carried to
other items in your grow room.

Biological agents may be applied to containers prior to planting in grow

rooms and green houses that have a history of the Pythium organism
invading the water supply. Biological agents and fungicides will have to be
applied more than once to contain this organism. Common chemicals that
can help treat this organism include etridiazole, etridiazole + thiophanate
methyl, fosetyl-Al, mefenoxam, metalaxyl and propamocarb. Biological
agents that can help control this organism include Gliocladium, Trichoderma,
Bacillus and Streptomyces.

Many hydroponic gardeners never have to deal with root rot in their grow
rooms or greenhouses, especially if the water to their plants is already
chlorinated. Those gardeners that collect water from other sources or have
untreated well water should have their water checked or treat it themselves
before they use it to irrigate their plants. Many plants will be lost if they are
infected through an irrigation system.

Defining the Differences between Hydroponic and Regular Gardening

When growing hydroponics, there are a vast variety of growing mediums that
may be used. The mediums include materials, including perlite, vermiculite,
coconut fiber, gravel, sand, or any number of other materials. Even air may
be used as a hydroponic growing medium. The hydroponic growing medium
is an inert substance that does not supply any nutrition to the plants. All of
the nutrition comes from the nutrient solution, typically combining water and
fertilizer. Hydroponic fertilizer and fertilizer intended for use in soil (regular
fertilizer) contain the three main nutrients.

These nutrients are nitrogen, Phosphorus, and potassium. The main

difference between hydroponic fertilizer and dirt fertilizer is that hydroponic
gardening fertilizers contain the proper amounts of all of the essential micronutrients that regular fertilizers do not include. The plants are expected to
find these elements in the soil.

Problems may arise for the plants if any or all of the micro-nutrients are not
present in the soil or have been depleted by successive or excessive
plantings. Hydroponic gardening fertilizers are usually in a more pure form
than are regular fertilizers so they are more stable and water-soluble.
Organic fertilizers are typically very different than either the hydroponic
fertilizers or the dirt fertilizers in how the deliver nutrients to the plants.
The organic fertilizers rely on the action of bacteria and microbes to help
break down the material into its basic elements so the plant can easily use it.
Hydroponic and regular fertilizers then supply the plants with these
elements.

Another difference between hydroponic and regular gardening is that growing

hydroponics can be extremely complicated. Hydroponics are controlled with
computers and sensors which help control everything from watering cycles to
nutrient strength, and the amount of light the plants receive. However,
hydroponics can also be very simple. The average home hydroponic system
usually consists of a few basic parts, including a growing tray, a reservoir, a
timer controlled submersible pump to water the plants, and an air pump to
oxygenate the nutrient solution. Light is, of course, also required to help the
hydroponic garden to grow.

There are also micro-nutrients that are required for healthy plant growth.
These micro-nutrients include calcium, sulfur, magnesium, boron, cobalt,
iron, copper, manganese, zinc, and molybdenum. These nutrients are the
essential elements that plants need in very small amounts. Plants are likely
to become sick without these trace elements and will develop all sorts of
problems depending on which nutrient is missing. The lack of micro-nutrients
in food crops can mean a lack of nutrients in the food. Any hydroponic
gardener needs to use a good quality hydroponic fertilizer when they are
growing plants using hydroponics.

The pH of the nutrient solution will affect how well each element can pass
through the root cell wall to nourish the plant. Once the gardener has
properly calibrated the fertilizer concentrations and the pH of that solution,
they can generally assume it will stay steady barring any unforeseen root
disease. Gardeners should always monitor their system too much rather than
too little to avoid any problems.

The ability to quickly and easily test and control pH in hydroponics is a major
advantage over regular gardening, where testing and adjusting the pH is
much more complicated and time consuming.

Dispelling Those Common Misconceptions about Hydroponics

Hydroponics is an often misunderstood part of the field of horticulture. Lets

separate the fact from the fiction and take a look at what exactly hydroponics
means to the world of gardening and food production.

The word hydroponics is derived from Latin and means working water.
Hydroponic growing is the growing of plants without soil. All of the nutrients
plants normally get from soil are instead delivered to the plants through
water. Hydroponic gardeners add create nutrient mixes to add to the water to
give the plants everything they need to thrive.

One common misconception about hydroponics is that is a new fangled,

fashionable trend. Actually, it has been practiced for centuries. Even the
ancient Egyptians used hydroponics to grow their food. Great strides have
been made in the field since the 1970s, when agriculturalists began studying
it in earnest as an alternate means of food production, which perhaps is the
reason behind so many people thinking it is a new invention.

Contrary to popular belief, hydroponics has absolutely nothing to do with

genetically modified food. While genetically modified food has been offered
as a solution to solving global hunger, as hydroponics has, it is a completely
separate entity. Because genetically modified food is so controversial,
hydroponics sometimes gets a bad rap. In fact, hydroponic food is 100%
natural food, not modified in any way, and no chemicals are added to the
plants to make them grow that they would not get in traditional fields. Its
simply a different way to grow food; no genetic manipulation involved.

Some people believe hydroponics is bad for the environment. Nothing could
be further from the truth. Hydroponic plants require much less water than
traditional plants do - in most cases, they require around a tenth of the water
of traditional plants. The water is used for the desired plants only; there is no

water wasted on weeds. Also, there is no run-off of pesticides into the

surrounding environment. While hydroponic plants grown in greenhouses do
require a lot of lighting to sustain, using a lot of energy, this cost is set off,
and then some, by hydroponics water conservation potential.

Hydroponics also does not have to cost a fortune, despite what many people
think. True, nutrient mixtures and growth mediums are expensive, but the
field has come a long way in developing reusable materials to balance some
of these costs. Small-scale hydroponic operations should be no more
expensive than traditional gardens or crops of the same scale.

Nor is hydroponics an obscure gardening technique. It is used in nearly every

country on earth, and in some environments, it is the most commonly used
technique. For instance, in British Columbia, 90% of the plants grown in
greenhouses are hydroponic plants.

One thing people consider a benefit of hydroponics is actually a myth as well.

Hydroponics and organic farming are not synonymous. Most hydroponic
growers used pesticides on their crops. The bright side is that these
pesticides do not pollute the surrounding environment with rainwater run-off
like traditional crops do. It is possible to grow hydroponic crops organically,
but it should not be assumed that all hydroponic crops are.

One last misconception about hydroponics is that is it used exclusively by the

drug trade to grow marijuana. This is just not true. Some illegal growers do
use hydroponics, but many more people use this technique to grow legal
crops.
Finding the Right Nutrient for your Hydroponic Water

Using nutrients in your plants water supply is the one of the most important
aspects of growing plants hydroponically. Choosing the right nutrients for
your hydroponic water is not a simple task, and there are so many choices
and so many different formulations. Finding the right nutrient solution may
seem confusing, but there are certain ways to minimize your selection and
ultimately buy the one that suits your plants needs. When growing plants
hydroponically it is mandatory to buy nutrients for your plants. There are

hundreds of nutrient solutions and there are a number of ways in which they
are formulated.

Some growers make the mistake of thinking more nutrient parts equal more
yield, but this is often not the case. Actually, more nutrient parts equal more
control, and more complex nutrient solutions will give added control over
plants. There are several nutrient solutions to choose from. Single part
nutrients are easy to use, which are ideal for novice growers. These nutrients
are often perceived as being for beginners only, but many commercial
growers prefer the simplicity of single part nutrient formulations when mixing
in large quantities.

Some ingredients are restricted in one-part nutrient formulations, because

everything is contained within one bottle. In these formulations there are
certain nutrient salts that will react with each other if stored together and
would render the nutrient unusable. So many effective ingredients must be
left out or replaced in one-part solutions.

The most popular nutrient is the two-part solution. Two part nutrients consist
of an A and B component for the growth and bloom formulations. Splitting the
formulation into two parts, allows for the adding of extra ingredients that
would otherwise be unstable in a one-part solution. The two part solutions will
almost always out perform the one part solution if used correctly. One-part
solutions are easier to use than two part solutions, so its highly possible to
make a mistake. You can add more of the same mixture of nutrients, but you
cannot control the individual strength of each major element within the
solution to suit your plants.

Three part nutrients offer growers the most control over what they are
feeding their plants. The solutions consist of three separate Grow, Bloom, and
Micro formulations, and the grower must decide how much of each they will
use to create their final solution at their plants stages of growth. This allows
the grower to change the overall NPK ratios of their nutrient as their plants
grow, and to respond to the signals given by plants. There are recommended
formulas for mixing the three parts, and the flexibility can allow superior
overall performance.

Its easy to make a mistake when using the three-part solution, and its easy
to misread the signals your plants are giving you. Three part nutrient
solutions are not best for the novice grower, but if your willing to take the
time to learn about three part systems, then it will give you total control over
your plants feeding schedule.

When choosing the right nutrient for your hydroponics water, you must
understand nutrient solution management. Complete nutritional control
requires a basic understanding of your plants nutritional needs. The plants
should be supplied with the 16 essential mineral elements that all plants
require.

Germinating Seeds the Hydroponic Way

Hydroponically germinating seeds has several advantages over using soil to

do the same job. This is the best way to avoid many common diseases
because the hydroponic medium is clean. Soil may contain insects or fungus
that can harm vulnerable seedlings. Using a good hydroponic growing
system is also a good way to avoid root rot. The area where hydroponic
growing is better than using soil is the control of the growing environment.

The gardener is not at the mercy of the soils nutrients or water content with
hydroponics. This will help to assure that the grower alone will control every
aspect of the plants growing conditions. This can be a major advantage for
young seedlings as they will get the proper nutrients right from the start of
their life and will lead to much healthier plants in the long run.

Seeds require both oxygen and water to sprout while germinating. The
growing medium must then provide sufficient amounts of both to the seed or
it will not germinate. Mediums that are more porous, such as rockwool,
perlite, or vermiculite, will do this and have great drainage capabilities.
Perlite makes another good growing medium for germinating seeds as its
porosity allows for good drainage and oxygen availability. Many seeds
contain nutrients within their shell to provide initial nourishment to jumpstart
the germination process. This is not true for all species of plants, however.

To avoid stressing the seed at a vulnerable point, the gardener should use a
medium that is pre-prepared with a low concentration of nutrients. The first
few initial times the plants are watered will give the seeds a small dose of
nutrients until it is ready to absorb more. After a few days the gardener
should switch to a regular nutrient solution in the water and keep it at a lower
dose than normal until the seed shows significant growth. After the plants
have developed strong and healthy stalks, they can be changed over to a
normal feeding and water program.

After the seeds have been planted, they should be watered once a day with
nutrient water. There are a variety of opinions on the strength of the nutrient
water. Many seeds have stored nutrients in their tissues and do not need any
additional hydroponic nutrients until they have fully sprouted. Other seeds
are very small and have almost no stored materials.

This water is a nutrient that is mixed half strength to the nutrient that will be
used in more mature plants. The hydroponic nutrient is mixed at half the
strength recommended by the manufacturer. This is kept until the seedlings
are about three inches tall and are ready for transplant. Once the grower is
set up, the entire growing medias should be watered down with the
hydroponic nutrient. The seeds are then planted and re-watered every day.

Some gardeners recommend soaking the seeds in water prior to germinating

them. This allows the seed coat to become saturated with water to break
open. However, presoaking is not recommended except for seeds that
actually require this before they will germinate. Some seeds have an extra
strong seed coat that inhibits germination. This is common in larger seeds of
plant fruits that expect to be eaten by an animal or bird to disperse their
seeds.

Helpful Hints on Selecting the Right Hydroponic Grow Light

Selecting the right hydroponic grow light is very important. This is one of the
main resources that you will use in order to successfully produce a plentiful
harvest and full-blooming plants.

The type of grow light that you need depends upon your growing needs, with
the biggest factor being the amount of light that your plants require for
successful growth. Of course, the most proven effective source of light used
to grow plants is natural sunlight, and it is possible to use this in hydroponic
growing. It is largely a matter of knowing where to position your plants in
order for them to benefit from the sun. Usually one to two feet away from a
sunny window is sufficient for most herbs and vegetables.

The use of natural sunlight is unpredictable, however, and could require the
period movement of your hydroponic system. Therefore, you may opt to use
an artificial source of light. The right grow light can even be used in the
winter, during times when sunlight is not as available. Certain types of plant
grow lights induce the same type of photosynthesis process that natural
sunlight initiates.

Choosing the right artificial growth light can be tricky. However, once you
learn about the amount of light that each of your types of plant needs to
grow you can find the right light that will work for your plant. Each specific
type of growth light gives off a certain type of radiation that is appropriate for
each type of plan that you will grow.

The right amount of sunlight is definitely one of the major factors of success
in plant growth. Therefore, light transmission should also be considered when
purchasing a growing structure for your plants. Glass is usually the preferred
material for plant greenhouses, including ones that use the hydroponic
growing method.

If you are looking for an artificial growth light one successful light that is used
is what is called a High Intensity Discharge (H.I.D.) light. You will wan to do
research on this type of light and see if it will work for you. Also, when
growing indoors and using natural sunlight, even the lights in your home can
help plant growth, this is especially true if you have the right kinds of
fluorescent lights installed in your home.

In addition to choosing the right growth light for your hydroponic garden
project, you will also need to consider a variety of other factors. For instance,
you will want to consider the materials that you need for successful plant

growth. For instance, you will want to decide if you are going to use a mediabased hydroponic system or a water culture hydroponic system.

In short, a media-based one is able to retain nutrients more than one that is
completely water-based. Medias used in hydroponic growing include
composted bark, expanded clay, gravel, oasis (artificial foam-based material,
commonly used for floral arrangements), peat moss, and other materials.
Never is soil used in this process, which is why it is called hydroponic
gardening.

The other thing that is useful in hydroponic gardening is to know what types
of nutrients your plants will need. For instance, most plants need nitrogen,
phosphorous, and potassium. You will need to find the exact type of fertilizer
that will be right for the types of plans you are attempting to grow using this
growth system.

How to Use more CO2 to Boost Hydroponic Plant Growth

Carbon dioxide is needed in a hydroponic garden to guarantee continued

plant growth because it is required for photosynthesis. Many gardeners do
not realize that the larger their hydroponic garden is, the more their plants
need carbon dioxide for respiration.

How can you boost the carbon dioxide content in your hydroponic garden?
There are five ways that you can increase the level of carbon dioxide in your
greenhouse to increase plant growth. First, the burning hydrocarbon fuels will
create carbon dioxide gas. Second, the use of dry ice can aid in the
production of this gas. Third, fermentation of organic materials creates
carbon dioxide. Fourth, the decomposition of organic matter such as compost
will create carbon dioxide. Finally, the use of compressed bottled carbon
dioxide is the most commonly used way to create the gas in a greenhouse for
the desired effect.

Large greenhouses have burned hydrocarbon fuels for years in an effort to

increase growth in their plants. Examples of hydrocarbon fuels are propane,
butane, natural gas and alcohol. Fuels that contain sulfur or sulfur

compounds cannot be used because they produce harmful by products when

they burn.

Dry ice can be used in small greenhouses, especially if a cooling effect is also
desired. Dry ice, which is solid carbon dioxide, is effective when used in a
well-sealed area. The ice can either be used in block form or broken down
into small pieces and used a little at a time. Another method is to put the dry
ice into a Styrofoam container with holes in it to slow down the rate of
evaporation. Since carbon dioxide is heavier than air it must be placed above
the plants in order for it to drift down and surround the plants.

Fermentation is another way to create more carbon dioxide in your

hydroponic greenhouse. This method is easy to accomplish with few
materials corn sugar, brewers yeast, water, a small bottle and a larger
container such as a garbage bag or large glass jug. The process is the same
as creating a batch of wine, beer or mead. Once the batch has stopped
bubbling the fermentation process has ceased and another batch will need to
be made in order to continue the production of carbon dioxide.

The use of decomposing organic matter is rarely used indoors because of the
odor and it is unsanitary because of the bugs it attracts. It can be used
outdoors in a greenhouse but the bug problem and their potential diseases
need to be addressed in order to save your plants from their adverse effects.

The most popular method of generating carbon dioxide for your hydroponic
plants is the use of a pressurized carbon dioxide system. The equipment is
relatively inexpensive (under $500) and the operating expense is low. In
addition this system does not generate heat so it is easier to regulate than
other forms of generating carbon dioxide. A flow meter and timer regulates
the amount of time that the gas is released into the growing environment.

Increasing the carbon dioxide in your greenhouse will improve the growth of
your plants and it could lead to increased profits for gardeners who sell their
plant products. All that is needed for success is careful planning, monitoring
and administration of the carbon dioxide gas.

Identifying Spider Mites on your Hydroponically Grown Produce

It is important to identify and get rid of any insects living in your hydroponics
system. Insects such as spider mites can destroy your hydroponically grown
produce. Spider mites like many pests can be terminated in several ways.
The best way to avoid a spider mite infestation is by taking precautionary
measures. Plants should be visually inspected weekly; this will help
determine if there are any in your garden.

Its important to check under leaves, around the stems and in the growing
medium or soil for signs of spider mites. If there are tiny holes in any of your
plants or crops, this could be a sign that spider mites are lurking. If there is a
large infestation then there will be webbing visible after a light misting of the
plants' leaves.

Its a good idea to take time, and find out how many of your plants are
affected. Determining the number of spider mites in your garden, the size of
the area they cover, and the size of the infestation will give you an idea of
how to eliminate them. Identifying the spider mites will be easier if you use a
garden microscope, which will give you a better view of the tiny bugs.

Many think using pesticides to eliminate spider mites in their hydroponic

gardens is a good idea, but the use of pesticides in hydroponic gardening is
discouraged and usually not necessary. Hydroponically grown plants are not
immune to spider mites, but they are more pest resistant than plant grown in
soil. Plants grown in hydroponics are usually healthier than soil grown plant,
because hydroponic plants are fed their exact nutritional requirements. The
natural preventive measures against spider mites are used in most
hydroponics systems.

Many hydroponic gardeners use a method of natural prevention called

companion planting. In companion planting crops are intermixed with
plants that act as spider mite deterrents for the primary crop. For example,
marigolds may be planted between rows of herbs in a hydroponic
greenhouse. Spider mites will be turned off by the smell of the marigolds and
will leave the garden.

Biological insect control is another method of pest management through the

introduction of predator insects to eliminate spider mites. Using enemy
insects is a safe and poison free way of controlling spider mites. Natural
enemies will feast on the spider mites until there arent enough for the
predator to survive, then they will die off or leave in search of more food.
Releasing predator insects into your hydroponics garden infestations of spider
mites can be eliminated or, they can be avoided. Theres no need to worry
with predator insects, because most will not harm your crops.

Your garden should also be able to support the predator insects. Many
biological insects will not survive if the temperature is too hot, or if there isnt
a good source of water. Other ways to protect your hydroponic produce
against spider mites include using non-toxic yellow sticky cards. The cards
are useful for monitoring spider mites and many other small bugs. The bright
yellow color will attract the spider mites where they will adhere to the sticky
surface.

The yellow cards are best for preventing the infestations of spider mites, but
cant act alone in eliminating them. Its best to identify spider mites before
their infestation grows too large, eliminating the spider mites with early
detection will save your hydroponically grown produce.

Important Must-Haves When Buying your Hydroponic Supplies

Gardeners that are new to hydroponics often go overboard buying items that
they may need in the future but will not need in the beginning stages of
hydroponic gardening. To begin your hydroponic gardening project you will
only need a few things to get you off to a great start. Many of the items you
need for hydroponics can already be found around your house so you can
save money before you go full tilt into this hobby.

The first thing any hydroponic gardener needs is a dedicated area for their
gardening. Most newbie gardeners can either purchase an easy to install
grow room or build a greenhouse outside of their home. Small grow rooms
for the beginning hydroponic gardener are usually slightly larger than a closet

and can be completely installed in under an hour. The cost ranges from
several hundred dollars to over $500, depending on the add-ons that you
think you will need.

A small greenhouse can cost considerably more because you will need to
either include a cement floor and drainage system or lay other types of
flooring such as gravel before you build the greenhouse itself. Many small
greenhouses cost anywhere from $500 to over several thousand dollars,
depending on the add-ons you choose.

The basic items you need after you decide on either a grow room or
greenhouse include a temperature control unit, exhaust fan, heating mats,
light fixtures for your blue and red spectrum lights, an aeration system (an
aquarium system works well for small gardens), pearlite, marble and
Styrofoam work well as a beginning medium and rockwool, oasis or Rapid
Rooters. Typical beginning tables for your plants include plastic tubs, a
childs swimming pool or fish tank. A gardener can also buy any of the items
they need for their grow room from stores specializing in hydroponic supplies.

Once you have your grow room or greenhouse set up, you can decide which
plants that you want to try and grow. Many people like to start with tomatoes
or roses since they have many hardy varieties to choose from. Gardeners will
also want to try using the blue and red spectrum lights to increase growth
and the flowering of their plants.

The temperature control units may also come in handy once you decide how
many plants you want to grow in your space. The more plants you have the
hotter your greenhouse will usually be. A temperature control unit can be set
to turn fans or blowers on and off at pre-determined intervals. They can also
be set up to open and close air ducts in your greenhouse or grow room.

As you progress in your hydroponic garden hobby you may also want to
switch from an aquarium pump or bubbler system to a more advanced
irrigation and drainage system for your garden. Once again, the more plants
you have the more advanced equipment you will need.

If you are still unsure about starting a hydroponic garden, you can get
everything you need in a little kit called a plug-and-go hydroponic gardening
kit. These little kits have everything you need to get you up and running with
this fascinating hobby. The typical kid includes a module for holding your
plant cubes, seeds, nutrient solution and a heating pad. All you need to add
is sufficient sunlight and water.
No Dirt Dished Here How to Grow Something the Hydroponic Way

Hydroponics is the system in which plants are grown without soil. Using
hydroponics to grow plants can be beneficial for many growers. Hydroponics
allows plants to be grown faster and with less of a hassle. In hydroponics
plants are grown in a solution consisting of water and nutrients required for a
particular plant, or within a system that uses a substrate or growing mix
medium. There are several hydroponics techniques and systems that exist for
producing plant crops.

Hydroponics systems include the nutrient film technique, aeroponics, and the
aeration technique. In the aeroponics method plants are anchored using
screens, rigid pipes, or films. The required nutrients are mixed into the plants
water supply artificially. The plant roots are suspended within the water by
various designs and the crop obtains the food nutrients directly from the
water, or from an air mist sprayed directly unto the plant roots. Hydroponics
also requires the use growing media.

Hydroponic systems use various mediums that are composed from relatively
inert materials that have the ability to retain the food rich moisture and have
the ability to physically support the plant roots. Growing media for
hydroponics includes, expanded clay, rockwool, perlite, vermiculite,
Styrofoam, sand, pea gravel, and other mediums.

There are many types plants that can be grown in a hydroponics system.
Some plants will grow better in hydroponics system than others. Many
growers use hydroponics systems to grow tomatoes, lettuce, watercress,
cucumbers, herbs, and various other edible plants. Beginning growers will be
satisfied with the quality of their crops, and the rates at which they will grow.
Flowers and tree seedlings can also be grown using hydroponics. Hydroponic

greenhouses produce millions of plant seedlings each year, which are

transplanted and grown at other locations where they are later planted into
soil.

There are many benefits to growing your own plants in a hydroponics system.
Many growers use hydroponic techniques for food and ornamental plant
production. Hydroponics doesnt require a large water supply or fertile
farmland for growing crops. You can grow vegetables and plants year round
using hydroponic techniques. Hydroponic plants can be grown in basements,
on an apartment balcony, or in almost any small space. Of course hydroponic
plants can be grown in greenhouses and nurseries as well.

The sterile medium used in hydroponic systems give home gardeners the
benefit of not having to remove weeds, and minimizes soil-borne pests and
diseases. If your plants are grown hydroponically, they will be healthier than
plants grown in soil, because all of the growth elements and nutrients are
made readily available during growth.

Hydroponically grown plants also grow and mature faster, yielding an earlier
harvest of vegetable, herbal and flower crops. The hydroponic systems also
require less space, because the plant roots dont have to spread and search
for food and water. The small space requirement makes hydroponics perfect
for limited space home gardeners. The greatest benefit to hydroponics is the
ability to automate the hydroponics system with timers and remote
monitoring equipment.

Growing plants hydroponically is not simple, but with time it will become an
easy routine. Hydroponics offers the advantage of many techniques that can
be beneficial to your plants, and beneficial to the grower, making their job
easier and plants healthier.

Pondering the pH Factor in your Hydroponic Garden

There are many factors that are important in hydroponic gardening and one
of the most important factors is the pH factor. The nutrients, water, trace
elements, growing medium, and the gases at the roots have different

electrical charges that are all engaged in a constant battle. All of these items
surround the root system to exchange positive and negative charges, which
helps the nutrients absorb into the roots to feed the plant.

The pH is the most important factor to monitor because the pH of a nutrient

solution reads the outcome of an electrical battle between the roots and
everything that surrounds them. The run off from growing plants in pots is
the best place to measure the pH level.

The protein and enzyme molecules in a plant are structured in very specific
shapes in order to catalyze a chemical reaction to build the plant cells. The
need reactant molecules to fit precisely into their gaps so all of the negative
and positive charges have to line up exactly. Plants are able to change their
own cellular pH level to stop or help speed up a certain enzyme reaction.

The electrical charges in soil particles are different from those in mixtures
with no soil. Because of this reason, different pH levels for nutrient uptake
are needed for each type of growing medium. Maintaining the proper pH
level in the nutrient reservoir is most likely the single most critical factor to
successful hydroponic gardening. If the pH factor goes too high or too low,
the plants will not do well and will show confusing signs or nutrient
deficiencies.

Nutrients are a key factor in a successful hydroponic garden. Its vital to

choose a nutrient solution formulated for hydroponics. Standard fertilizers
sold in garden stores are not generally suited for hydroponics, as they do not
contain specific trace elements, which are necessary for a balanced
hydroponic formula.

Many formulas also contain buffers to help prevent extreme swings in the pH
level. PH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the nutrient solution or water
is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, 7.0 neutral, and 7 to 14 alkaline.
General plants prefer the pH to stay in the 5.5 to 7.5 ranges as going beyond
this range inhibits certain nutrients to become less available for the plant to
absorb. The key is to monitor the nutrient solutions on a regular basis to
make sure the pH is at the right level.

Hydroponics is the practice of growing plants without soil as hydroponics

cultivates plants in nutrient-rich water. This is an advantageous method of
gardening for home and for commercial use. There are no weeds to deal with
and hydroponic plants are typically healthier, mature earlier, and use less
space. Hydroponic plants are entirely water based which makes it possible to
fully automate the hydroponics system.

Specially formulated hydroponic fertilizer mixtures are required and should be

tested after dilution to ensure a pH level of between five and six.

This nutrient solution should be changed every two weeks and in between
changes should be checked so the volume is kept level by adding more water
only and not additional formula. If the water evaporates and the water level
gets too low, the nutrient solution will become too rich and could burn the
roots.

Quick Results for your Hydroponic Veggies and Flowers

Have you ever wanted a garden that would produce beautiful flowers and
delicious fruits year round? You can if you create a hydroponic garden in
your home.

A well-balanced nutrient solution for your hydroponic garden is the key to

success. The nutrient solution circulates around the roots of your plant and
the formula will either make your plants happy and fruitful or kill them. The
perfect level must be found for the plants you are trying to feed.

The pH level for plants determines what type of nutrient solution that they
need. Acid loving plants need a pH level below 7 while other plants need a
level above 7 to achieve optimal growth. In addition, for optimal absorption
of the nutrient solution, air must be allowed to circulate around the roots of
the plants. Plants that are constantly waterlogged will not thrive and their
leaves will eventually fall off.

Nutrient solutions can be made by the home gardener or purchased premixed from a variety of sources. If you are a beginning hydroponic gardener
you may want to use the pre-mixed nutrient solutions and observe their
effects before you begin to make your own solutions. The basic nutrients
needed in any hydroponic solution are potassium phosphate, potassium
nitrate, calcium nitrate and magnesium sulfate. All of these salts must be
thoroughly dissolved before being allowed to circulate around your root
systems. Micronutrients are also needed for proper growth of your plants.
Boric acid, manganese chloride, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate and iron sulfate
can be used in minute amounts in the nutrient solution.

Many people who grow their hydroponic plants in a greenhouse will also find
that they need the correct amount of carbon dioxide in the air in order for
their plants to flourish. The addition of carbon dioxide in these small spaces
can be accomplished in several ways. Burning hydrocarbon fuels, the use of
dry ice, fermentation, decomposition of organic matter and the use of
compressed bottled carbon dioxide can create the correct atmosphere for
your plants to grow in.

The temperature that you grow your plants in is also very important for their
survival. If it is too humid for your plants the increase in respiration of the
plant will decrease fruit life. A very dry climate is not good for most plants
either. The ideal temperature for your plants will be between 40 to 97
degrees Fahrenheit. The actual temperature for the particular plant you are
growing will vary.

For optimal growth, the amount of light your plants receive can be the
difference between life and death. Too many lights can dry out your plants
while too few can have your plants stretching desperately towards the lights.
All plants respond differently to light depending on the intensity, wavelength
and duration it receives. Many hydroponic gardeners have to experiment
with different lighting to achieve the best environment for the plants that
they are growing.

Air pollution can affect the growth of your greenhouse plants and must be
monitored if you live in a large city. Signs of air pollution include spotting or

twisting of the plants leaves, flower and bud fall off, and unusual
discolorations as well as poor growth can signal a problem.

Remember, plants are affected by the following elements: air, temperature,

light, water and pollution. If you take all of these things into consideration
when planning your hydroponic garden your plants are sure to thrive under
your care.

Starting Small What Hydroponic Beginners Typically Grow First

Hydroponics is the concept of soil less gardening. The word hydroponics

comes from two Greek words, hydro meaning water and ponics meaning
labor. This concept has been around for thousands of years and many
countries, including China, Holland, Germany, and Australia have used
hydroponics for crop production with results that are quite amazing.

Hydroponics is proven to have several advantages over regular soil

gardening. The growth rate on a hydroponic plant is 30 to 50% faster than a
soil plant that was grown under the same conditions. The yield of the plant is
also greater. There are many reasons for the drastic differences between
hydroponic and soil plants. Root growth is stimulated in the hydroponic
plants due to the extra oxygen. Plants with plenty of oxygen in the root
system will also absorb nutrients faster. The nutrients in a hydroponic system
are mixed with water and sent directly to the root system.

Hydroponic systems use apparatus that are varied. There are two basic
divisions between systems: water culture and media based. Systems may
also be active or passive. Active systems use pumps and usually timers and
other electronic gadgets to monitor the operation. Passive systems may also
incorporate any number of gadgets. These systems try not to use pumps and
may rely on the use of a wicking agent to draw nutrients to the roots. Media
based systems use some form of growing medium.

Some of the more popular media based systems include ebb and flow
system; run to waste system, drip feed system, and bottom feed system.
Water culture systems do not use medium. Some of the more popular water

culture systems include raft systems, nutrient film techniques, and

aeroponics.

Hydroponic gardening requires an energy source in order to grow. Usually,

natural sunlight is used, but during the shorter and darker days of winter,
many hydroponic gardeners use artificial lights to increase the intensity of
light or to expand the daylight length. Different types of artificial lighting are
selected for specific plant varieties and optimum plant growth
characteristics.

In hydroponics, nutrient solutions are used to feed plants instead of using

plain water. This is due to the fact that the plants are not grown in soil.
When growing hydroponically, the gardener will need to add all of the
nutrients the plant needs to the water. Distilled water will work best for
making the nutrients. Hydroponic supply stores sell a variety of nutrient
mixes for specific crops and growth cycles. Plants can be propagated by a
number of methods. The grower can let a plant go to seed, collect the seed,
and start the cycle all over again, which is called germination.

Another method is to take stem cuttings, also known as cloning. This process
does not work with all plants, but it is considered a highly effective technique.
The gardener should also prune the hydroponic plants regularly. The plant
might need to be pruned to focus its energy on the remaining shoots.
However, pruning is an art and should be performed with care. Damaged or
dying roots may also need to be pruned from time to time.

Different plants also have different germination and growing temperatures.

The gardener should check each plants growing requirements on a regular
basis.

The Benefits of Gardening the Hydroponic Way

Gardening has been considered to be one of the most therapeutic rewards for
North Americans. Gardening stimulates all of the senses, giving great
satisfaction and pleasure. Hydroponics is the growing of plants without the
use of soil.

There are a variety of benefits associated with hydroponic gardening. When

plants are grown using hydroponics, the roots do not need to search for
required nutrients. The nutrient solution is provided directly to them, which
results in plant growth, which is more abundant. Incorporating hydroponics
into an outdoor garden can help add interest and intrigue. The natural
conditions available outdoors in the summer make it a perfect time to
experiment with the various types of hydroponic cultivation. Annual flowers,
fruit, herbs, and vegetables do exceptionally well with hydroponics.

With hydroponics, important growing factors such as light, temperature, and

humidity can be controlled. Since there is no soil, there is less maintenance
involved with hydroponics. There is no need for weeding and the worry of
pests or soil borne diseases is drastically reduced. Hydroponics is always a
soil less culture, but not all soil less cultures are considered to be
hydroponics. Many of these cultures do not use the nutrient solutions, which
are required for hydroponics. There are two main types of hydroponics, which
are solution culture and medium culture.

Solution culture uses a nutrient solution but does not use a solid growing
medium for the roots. The medium culture has a solid growing medium for
the roots such as gravel, sand or a perlite culture. Hydroponic plants are
grown in a number of ways, each supplying nutrient solution to the plants one
way or another.

Hydroponics can be used to grow plants anywhere, even in your own

backyard. Using hydroponics can grow anything from garden crops to
flowers. Hydroponic gardening is considered to be a clean and highly
effective method for growing plants. There is less mess and less
maintenance. Hydroponic gardening helps to eliminate the need for weeding
and helps to cut down on diseases and pests. This form of gardening is also
easily adapted to indoor environments, which means it can be used
throughout the year to grow a gardeners favorite plants.

The greatest advantage to hydroponics is the overall outcome of the plants,

which will be of better quality and are much healthier. Gardeners can give
nature a helping hand while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of their garden.

Gardeners will be able to watch the spectacular improvements that growing

hydroponically can bring to their garden.

Hydroponics has always been an ecologically sound gardening choice. It uses

much less water than conventional gardening and does not erode the soil or
add toxins to the environment. Soluble nutrient formulas are re-circulated
and used by the plants roots, which helps eliminate environmental waste.

As many gardeners today are choosing to grow organically, organic crop

cultivation in hydroponics has become very popular. Organic gardening is the
cultivation of plants without the use of synthetic chemicals or pesticides.
Gardeners are willing to invest in the extras required by organic gardening
because it ensures that no harmful pesticides or fungicides will be used.