The Green Machine Hydroponics

What is Hydroponics?

Hydroponic cultivation systems are incredibly popular and are likely to become more so.

Hydroponic systems are suitable for small and large scale use. Higher yields are available when correct nutrients are used.

With the current sophistication of measuring equipment and technological advancements in the industry as a whole, the future appears bright. There are even plans to construct vertical gardens utilising existing tower blocks as high rise hydroponic gardens, thus negating the need to import produce.

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil in which all the nutrients are supplied by water. A distinction can be made between "real" hydroponic systems where plants are cultivated without using substrate (NFT, aeroponics) and those that use a substrate (rockwool, pearlite, co-co, clay pebbles and peat). The type of nutrient to be used depends upon the system type.

An important distinction can also be made between open and closed systems. In open cultivation systems (run to waste) substrate is continuously supplied by fresh nutrients, while the old is removed from the substrate by the drainage system.

In a closed or re-circulating system, the nutrients are not removed by the drainage system but collected and re-supplied to the plant. This is particularly useful if no substrate is being used in cultivation or if the substrate retains relatively little moisture (baked clay pebbles and pearlite).

It is very important in hydroponic systems that the nutrient solution contains all the necessary elements (that the plant needs) in the correct proportions.

Details on all hydroponic systems will be explained by TGM staff on visiting The Green Machine and any questions answered.