Hydroponics is a way of growing plants totally without soil. When plants are grown by traditional methods the soil delivers water and nutrients to the plant. Plants grown by hydroponic methods have nutrients and water feed directly into the roots removing the need for soil.

There are many different types of hydroponic system, these can be read about on here on my blog.

Hydroponic gardening could have a huge impact on the environment. It enables plants to grow quicker and larger as they can put their energy into growing up instead of developing a complex system of roots, more food production in less space.

Because plants grown hydroponically are grown in self contained systems, there is less need to add pollutents to our natural soil.

In hydroponic growing the environment is very controlled so pests are far less likely reducing the effects of pesticides.

Hydroponics is also a fantastic hobby allowing you to grow plants that aren’t accustomed to our natural climate, such as orchids.

Or making it feasible to grow your own vegetables in a confined space, and you’d know exactly what went into making that food. It’s also brilliant for children to watch plants that are grown hydroponically as there is less time for them to wait to see the results.

If growing hydroponically indoors you will also need grow lamps so the plants can get all the light they need. There are various versions of lights that can be chosen for this function such as High Pressure Sodium lights which require a ballast to operate, or LEDs as well as fluorescents.