Introduction

Hydroponics is the technique of growing plants using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil, and can include an aggregate substrate, or growing media, such as vermiculite, coconut coir, or perlite. Hydroponic production systems are used by small farmers, hobbyists, and commercial enterprises.

Learn about the history of hydroponics, growing systems, nutrient management, and more. Hydroponics is used to cultivate ornamental crops, herbs, and multiple vegetable types including cucumbers, lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes. Growing systems can be designated as either liquid (closed) or aggregate (open or closed), with the closed-types requiring Nutrient Management Techniques.

This factsheet and graphics define hydroponics and the six types of hydroponics systems.  It provides step-by-step instructions, with images, and lists the required tools and materials needed to build a basic hydroponic systems.

Hydropronic crops and plant types

Almost any plant can be grown with hydroponics, but certain hydroponic plants work particularly well:

Greens: green beans, cauliflower, cabbage, celery, broccoli, lettuce, pea, leek, spinach.

Vegetables: carrot, beetroot, cucumber, aubergine, onion, pepper, radish, courgette, tomato.

Fruit: cantaloupe melon, strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, grape and even tree fruits such as lemon or apple using dwarf trees.

Aromatic plants: basil, coriander, mint, thyme, sage, tarragon, rosemary.

Hydroponic technology

A hydroponic crop requires more technology and precision than a conventional one. Some of the necessary instruments and equipment are:

Conductivity meters: the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution indicates the amount of dissolved nutrients and whether they need to be replenished.

pH meters: it is essential to control the acidity of the solution and substrate, as the optimal level is different for each crop.

Lighting: Sunlight, artificial light, or a combination of both can be used to maximize yield. In recent years the use of LED lights has increased due to their low consumption.

Air control: in closed environments, the concentration of CO2 in the air can be increased to improve fertility.