Introduction to Hydroponics
Hydroponic cultivation is the method of gardening without the use of soil. In place of soil an inert medium is used or the roots of a plant are suspended. Plants get their required nutrition and moisture in the form of highly specialized mineral formula which is delivered through several different methods. These methods have been developed to create an oxygen rich environment for the plants root system, which is necessary for maximum nutrient absorption.
Hydroponic gardening is not a new concept, dating back thousands of years, only recently have developments been made allowing easy access for the home cultivator. Highly specialized nutrient formulas are manufactured and readily available. Pre- built systems can be purchased from specialty shops and online and although they are costly due to the low manufacturing supply, prices should drop due to increased interest and growing popularity. A homemade system can be built easily from parts found at almost any hardware or department store.
Hydroponic cultivation offers precise control over all conditions needed for plants to develop beyond what is possible in nature. This method of gardening delivers moisture and nutrient directly to the plant's root system. Because the plant does not need to develop a large root system searching out nutrient and water, the time and energy generally spent can then be put into vegetative and flowering development. Plants may also be grown much closer together since the root system does not need to grow as large as they normally would.
Nutrients can be easily mixed to create the exact amount of minerals needed for any plant and for any stage of it's growth. This will ensure that plants receive just the right amount of food at all stages of development.
Combining hydroponics with indoor or greenhouse gardening, all aspects of the environment can be created and controlled to mimic any plant's natural environment, going beyond what is possible in nature. Without violent wind, rain and animals or insects plants cannot be easily damaged. Settings can be altered to duplicate seasonal conditions through lighting and temperature, and in a controlled environment such as this plants can easily reach their full potential.
