A Beginner’s Guide on How to Use a Hydroponic Growing System
Did you know that plants that are grown hydroponically yield up to 25 percent more crops? For this reason, hydroponic growing is becoming ever more popular.
Some individuals are even creating hydroponic gardens at home to grow fresh produce, such as herbs, vegetables, and fruit all year long.
Would you like to learn how to use a hydroponic growing system? If so, stick around as we guide you through this cultivation method and share hydroponic tips!
What is Hydroponics?
If you are completely new to the world of hydroponic farming, you’ll need to understand the basics before you begin.
Hydroponics gardening is growing plants in water with grow lights, substrate (such as moss or clay pellets), and nutrient solutions. Even though it may seem complicated, it’s quite simple and requires little time to set up a system.
Without the need for a plot of land, you can grow plants wherever you’d like, even indoors or on your patio. This is an advantage for those in urban areas or individuals who want to eliminate weeds or pests from gardens.
Of course, as we mentioned at the outset, a major advantage of hydroponics is that it encourages faster crop growth and higher yields.
With so many benefits, you’re likely interested in knowing how to use a hydroponic growing system. So, let’s take a look at a few different kinds!
Types of Hydroponic Growing Systems
There are a few different ways to set up your hydroponic growing system so that your plants receive a steady supply of nutrients and water. The type of system you choose will likely depend on the plants you grow.
Moreover, you don’t have to create your system from scratch if you don’t want to. Instead, you can purchase kits that make the process a lot more straightforward. However, if you create your system from scratch, you will customize it much more.
Wick System
If you want to grow plants that don’t require a lot of water, such as lettuce and herbs, the wick system may be the right choice.
The wick system uses a grow tray, in which seedlings are directly planted into some substrate. Wicks (such as cotton rope) connect this tray to the reservoir, allowing them to draw the needed water and nutrients into the tray. And, of course, the aeration system gives plants the oxygen they need to survive.
Water Culture
The water culture system is said to be the easiest to build. And, thankfully, it is perfect for a wide variety of crops such as okra, bok choy, salad greens, and herbs.
In this system, the plants sit in mesh nets with their roots suspended into nutrient-dense water. Like the wick system, they are provided oxygen with a pump and air stone.
Aeroponic System
The aeroponic system is one of the most common among experienced growers since it yields the highest results. It works by spraying your plants enclosed in a dark pot with a nutrient solution.
However, if you make one mistake, you can lose your entire crop. Still, if you are interested in the aeroponic system, check out some kits at www.cannabisgrowing.com.au.
Cut Gardening Time in Half with Hydroponic Growing
Now that you understand hydroponic growing, you can start your very own garden at home, no matter where you live.
Just be sure to research which system is best for the plants you intend to grow. Once you know this, you can purchase your kit or start from scratch. No matter what you decide, you’re bound to produce lovely plants in no time!
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