What is Hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, in which all the nutrients are supplied via the water. 'Pure' hydroponic systems cultivate plants without using substrate (Nutrient Film Technique,Aeroponics) and some hydro systems use a substrate (rockwool, perlite, coco fibre, clay pebbles and peat.
                                                                                                                                      

The type of nutrient that must be used usually depends on the type of system being used.

                                                                           

The word hydroponics comes from the Greek words hydro (water) and ponos (to work) and literally means 'waterwork'. Early recorded examples of hydroponic systems were the Hanging Gardens of Babylon   and the floating gardens of the Aztecs in Mexico  
 Thanks to the continous flooding it was possible to cultivate food the whole year round.
  The first successful hydroponic systems were re-developed in the 1930's in California. During the Second World War these systems were adapted to provide American soldiers with fresh vegetables. The first hobby hydroponic systems were adapted for commercial purposes for the production of vegetables and flowers in the 1970's and 80's.

                                                              

  Hydroponic cultivation systems are increasingly popular, and are likely to become even more so. Hydroponic systems are suitable for both small and large scale use. Direct control options mean higher yields where correct nutrients are used. With the current sophistication of measuring equipment and technological advancements in the industry as a whole the future appears bright for hydroponics. Hydroponic systems have even been developed to provide astronauts with fresh food during long space missions.

Why hydroponics instead of soil?
1. Increased aeration to roots = a bigger yield (between 2-10 times yield as compared scientifically to soil yields.
2. Direct application of feed and water to roots produces immediate responses.
3. Direct application of nutrition to roots means a smaller amount of energy is used on root production leaving more energy for fruit and flower production.
4. Pest and disease problems are greatly reduced as hydro systems are mainly sterile.