A Hydroponic Garden, The fun way to grow fresh produce.

What is Hydroponics?

Hydroponic crop production differs because microbes which are required in most soil based growing methods, especially organic crop production, are not necessary for the plants to absorb their prepared nutrients in hydroponics. The rate of absorption in a hydroponically grown plant is generally much faster than that of a soil grown plant. In hydroponics, nutrients are instantly soluble and available to the plant, as as is essential oxygen.

Hydroponic plants are usually grown in a relatively sterile environment, and with precise controls. Artificial lighting is often used to extend the growing season. Actually commercial hydroponic growers frequently use elaborate computer systems that enable them to tailor the plants environment so that hydroponics becomes just one part of the entire system. Growers find plant growth rates, intensity, yields and quality all increase. This is not what many people want to hear, but it is the simple scientific truth. In fact, the kinds of materials that we are able to use under organic crop production regulations are not pure enough to be used for hydroponic garden culture.

Common sense tells us that consumers want to buy produce that is free from hazardous chemicals and poisons when they are feeding the family. There is also an increasing public demand to be gentle on our environment. We don't want any harm to come to the soil, water or ecosystems.

Hydroponic growing methods fit perfectly into these values when used properly. Hydroponics protects soil because no soil is used. Less water is required for hydroponic culture, we actually produce more food with less water. We find Hydroponic culture up to 80% efficient in water use. The fertilizers used for hydroponics are ultra-pure and they just don't leave a residue in the fruits and vegetables. Hydroponic garden technologies are more efficient than soil methods, therefore more people can be fed using less area and having far less ecological impact.

There has been a line of hydroponics garden ideas and equipment developed for indoor gardening, greenhouses and outdoor gardens. There are a few extra things to consider if you decide to produce hydroponically outdoors. The weather is the foremost problem. When the temperature goes too low the system has to be shut down. Areas that are subject to heavy rainfall can have problems with dilution of the nutrient solution. Insects and disease can be more of a problem also. Today's hobby hydroponic garden can be grown in a variety of places, consider a window-sill for growing herbs hydroponically or maybe a closet you could spare.

We have much more information and ideas for you, follow our links so you can get started with your own hydroponic garden.