The benefits of hyrdroponic gardening systems are overwhelming. Topsoil erosion is avoided completely, as well as the use of pesticides and overuse of water. A hydroponic gardening system can also yield healthier, faster growing plants-with up to 50% faster growth. Hydroponic gardening also reduces the chances of infestation and disease as well as fungus growth. Additionally, a hydroponic system reduces the amount of energy spent on caring for and maintaining a garden. Most kits have automatic timers, drip systems and additional equipment, which keep the garden in great shape daily.

The word hydroponic comes from the Latin and literally means "water labor" or, respectively, "water-working." Hydroponic gardening was developed by the ancient Incas and Aztecs and surprised 19th century travelers. European gardeners then realized it was not necessarily the soil that helped a crop grow, but that it was the nutrients inside the soil. While soil helps decompose organic matter into mineral and nutrient-rich salts, these same components can be provided in a water solution for plants. In fact, providing the nutrients in water to the plants avoids extra work for the plant. The roots are able to gather nutrients quickly and without needing to breakdown soil. Additionally, the nutrients directly reach the roots daily and at the proper measurements.

A hydroponic gardening kit will often come with a container of some sort, which allows for maximum water efficiency as well as seeds. Nutrients or plant food is included with directions for proper feeding. Kits can also come with additions like: lighting, timers, baskets, drips, domes, converters, and frames.

Home systems can be developed for the cost of under $40.00. Construction includes building a rectangular frame and lining with polyurethane in order to keep the water from leaking. Then add a floating Styrofoam top with intermittent holes throughout. Plants can be purchased commercially in net pots, which enable the root system to stay compact during the first few steps of growing. Once the plants are secured in the holes (sometimes using a small, thin wood rod through the base of the plant and through the Styrofoam can keep it in pace), add water. Ensure all plant roots are immersed in the water. Then find a water solution that works best for your system. You can create PVC pipe feeding systems or add water throughout a side area, but do not feed directly over plants. Drip systems are better for your plant life than direct feeding, which does not ensure proper nutrient balance.

While home systems can be created quite easily, they do not have timers or additional equipment to maintain the water garden. For beginners, hydroponic gardening systems purchased as kits are probably the best option. Kits are available as simple starter kits or with as deluxe packages, which include premium feeding solutions and maintenance equipment.

The benefits of hydroponic gardening compared to soil gardening include:

• No raking
• No tilling
• No worms
• No bugs
• No molds or fungus
• No digging
• No hoeing
• No weeding
• No grubs
• No soil problems
• Better nutrients
• Water efficiency
• Higher yields
• Faster growing plants