Gardening With Hydroponics

Hydroponics involves growing plants without the use of soil, or solid planting mediums. The word hydroponics is from the Greek word hydro and ponos. The definition of hydro is water, which of course is the heart and soul of hydroponic gardening.

There is a huge difference between hydroponic gardening and normal gardening, mainly the planting medium. The plants receive all of their required nutrients from the water. This requires a nutrient rich growing solution, with a PH level of 5 to 6. Plants grown with hydroponics should be watered more than three times a day. This can easily be automated using a pump and timer. Which is by far the best method.

If your hydroponic garden is going to be indoors, try and maintain an optimum temperature of between 71 and 76 degrees. In some cases even higher, for example with tropical plants.

You need to locate your hydroponic garden in a location that provides adequate light. If a suitable spot is not available, artificial grow lights must be used.

Your plants will also benefit from adequate humidity. If the area that holds your hydroponic garden has very dry air, a humidifier may help.

The best thing about gardening with hydroponics is that it can easily be completely automated. With the use of a pump and timer, the system will just about take care of its self. Another benefit is that there are no weeds to pull. Now that's a big plus!

Also many people who use this form of gardening achieve higher yields of vegetables. Those using the system for flowers and bedding plants, are rewarded with lush healthy plants.

If you are thinking of trying hydroponic gardening for the first time, you may benefit from purchasing a do it yourself kit to start with. There are many types and sizes available both online and off. This would give you a good start, while getting you familiarized with the concept.

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