Hydroponic gardening might seem very scientific and difficult but, in fact, it is as simple - and maybe even easier - as regular gardening. They both have many elements in common that being the need for light, humidity, water and nutrients.
Hydroponic gardening, however, uses no soil. A soil substitute is used to hold the roots and the nutrients are carried by the water. You can do hydroponic gardening indoors and plants do respond well and thrive with this type of system.
One vital consideration in hydroponic gardening is the nutrient solution. The solution must maintain a pH level of 5 to 6 after it is diluted. In hydroponics gardening, the plants need to be watered more than three times a day which is typically done automatically using a pump and timer.
For indoor hydroponic gardens, the best temperature is between 71 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit. There can be exceptions to this depending on the types of plants you are growing so it is best to know the optimum temp of any plant you intend to grow.
Just like regular plants, those grown hydroponically need to get enough light. The amount of light, of course, depends on the plants but natural light is best. If you cannot provide enough natural light, artificial light such as high pressure sodium bulbs are a good substitute.
Plants love humidity so if you are contemplating an indoor hydroponic garden think about installing a humidifier in the room. Once you get your room hot enough, the air should be able to hold enough moisture for the plants, but a little bit of humidity can help. Not too much though, or you may end up with a mold problem in your home!
Many people prefer growing their plants using hydroponics as it can be totally automated. It is actually much less work than a traditional garden as there is no weeding or digging in dirt. The hydroponics system can be totally automated resulting in less work while still providing the exact amount of nutrients your plants need. This type of gardening is also more economical and the water can be re-used.
If you are thinking about starting a hydroponic garden but don’t know where to begin, take a trip down to your local hardware store, many stores these days sell DIY home hydroponics systems that will get you set up in no time.
Lee Dobbins writes for Backyard Garden And Patio where you can get more great gardening and landscaping tips.
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