Hydroponics entails growing plants in a liquid nutrient solution instead of soil. The Aztecs used this technique over 500 years ago to produce fast-growing floating plant gardens. Hydroponics, today, is employed in commercial crop production throughout the world. Tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, peppers, radishes and herbs have all been used in hydroponic gardens.
Growing Your Own Hydroponic Plant
It is easy to grow your own hydroponic plant. You can use an opaque ceramic or glass container, a special hydroculture pot, or a watertight trough. Fill the container with colored gravel, marbles or another inert medium so that the roots of the plant will have something to grab onto. Fill the container with a nutrient solution. This solution should be changed every two weeks to keep the container clean. Place plant in container and place in a warm area of at least 65 degrees. Replenish the solution as needed or plants will die.
Germinating a Seed
To germinate a single seed, fold it inside a strip of cotton fabric and secure it with a hat pin or other straight pin. Lay the strip across the neck of a narrow-necked container such as a soda bottle. The bottom of the cloth should lie in the water. As the seedling grows, the roots will reach into the water and the stems will sprout up out of the fabric. Transplant when the seedling gets big enough to fill space in container.
Transplanting from Soil
Roots should be rinsed well to eliminate all traces of soil. Dead roots should be cut off and stems should be pruned to balance with roots. Plant can be covered with a plastic bag and kept in low light to retain moisture until new roots form.
Caring for Hydroponic Plants
Hydroponic plant roots need plenty of oxygen in order to develop properly. Plants will grow considerably faster if supplied with extra oxygen. A fish-tank pump can be used to pump air into the water if you are growing several plants in a large container.
Fertilizers specified for hydroponics are available at garden supply stores. They contain the micronutrients and macronutrients that are essential for proper plant growth. Follow manufacturer's direction and be careful to regularly check the pH in the solution. A level of 6.0 works best for most plants. Use a water-level gauge to periodically check water level. Allow the water level to drop to the minimum indicated on the gauge to allow air to reach roots and stimulate new growth.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
