Hydroponic Systems Explained
It might feel that hydroponic gardening is absolutely everywhere at the moment, and if you are someone who loves gardening and consumes media related to gardening it can be hard to avoid articles and videos on the topic. The truth is that hydroponics as a growing method for hobbyists is something that will only become more popular with time.
There are many excellent reasons for the popularity of hydroponics, not least of which is the fact that it is extremely accessible. While the method was once only used commercially due to the costs involved with getting the systems up and running, it is now possible to choose small, affordable hydroponic systems that are designed to fit into the average home.
What this means for many people without access to outdoor space is that they can still grow a lush and productive garden. In this modern day and age, many people place a much higher importance on making time for restful, relaxing and satisfying hobbies.
One such hobby that is becoming increasingly popular is growing plants. This could extend to having a few house plants, planting up a full vegetable garden, renting an allotment, or bringing the outdoors into your home in a hygienic and convenient manner through the use of a hydroponic system.
So, whether you already grow plants and are curious about whether hydroponics might be worth a go, or you are completely new to the idea and want to try your hand at a new hobby then there has never been a better time to start. Equipment is more affordable than ever, and the amount of support available is huge so even an inexperienced beginner will be able to get this kind of project off the ground.
Different types of systems
There are many different types of hydroponic systems available though they all work on a similar theory. The idea is that, instead of growing plants in soil and applying water and nutrients as needed, the plants are grown indoors in water full time, and will have their needs supplemented by the grower. All plants need water, light and nutrients to grow and you will need to be ready to provide these to your plants.
The most basic and beginner friendly system is the deep water culture system, or DWC. These can be as simple as a bucket to contain water and nutrients, a decent amount of hydroponic growing media for the plants to root into, a light, and an air pump to aerate the water. On the more complex side there are aeroponics, nutrient film systems, drip systems and ebb and flow systems. Each kind has its own unique benefits and some are more expensive to buy and maintain than others so you’ll need to choose carefully.
Choosing your plants
Most people will be aware that hydroponics has a reputation for being involved with certain illicit activities, but this is a perception which is changing over time as more hobbyists are using it to create their own fruit, vegetable, herb and flower gardens at home. You might be concerned that you won’t be able to grow all your favourite plants using this method, but the great thing about hydroponics is that it can be used to grow the vast majority of plant types.
The only plants that don’t take well to being grown hydroponically are the ones that have extremely large root systems or need a lot of space to sprawl such as trees, squash and melons, and plants such as corn, carrots, celery and cabbage. Pretty much anything else will be happy in a hydroponic garden, so feel free to choose your favourite tomatoes, salad leaves, herbs, soft fruits such as strawberries and many flowering plants grown for medicinal or decorative reasons.
If you are unsure then the best thing to do is research other people’s experiences in growing the plants you want to have a go at growing at home. If you want to grow a particular type of tomato or leafy green the chances are that someone has already done so and will have produced an article, blog post or video about their experience. These are usually a great place to gather information, tips and tricks to help you get a head start on your project.