Hydroponics is a form of gardening and a sub-set of hydroponics that involves growing plants with the aid of mineral nutrient solution in an environment devoid of air, water, or nutrients. The plants grown in this method are similar to those grown in soil or hydroponic systems. Hydroponics techniques allow for the cultivation and production of small edible plants in containers with a reduced nutrient concentration. Hydroponics can be either plant rooted or plant suspended. The plant-rooted system takes root in a medium of nutrient solution and grows in a cocoon of sorts. For instance, in February 2021, the Government of Germany unveiled new legislation to promote soilless farming in an attempt to reduce the use of pesticides on crops and the extinction of insect species.
One of the major benefits of hydroponics compared to traditional agriculture is that hydroponics utilizes a smaller area. The need for space, resources, and infrastructures are minimal with the use of hydroponics. Another advantage of hydroponics compared to other forms of agriculture is that hydroponics does not require replanting of seeds, which reduces seedling requirements and enhances yields. Another advantage of hydroponics compared to other forms of farming is that with the implementation of the proper technique, there are fewer resources required.
Hydroponics also allows for greater crop yield per head of plant compared to other methods. With the proper implementation of a hydroponics system, the crop yield is higher than that of conventional farming methods. In addition to this, hydroponics also allows for a controlled environment for the growth of plants. Controlling the environment in which the plants grow greatly reduces the amount of time needed for harvest. With the use of a hydroponics greenhouse, there are fewer resources spent on irrigation systems, insecticides, fertilizers, and so on.
Hydroponics is highly efficient when it comes to soil biology. With hydroponics, the nutrients needed by the plants are delivered directly to the plant roots where it is needed. This system provides for a more controlled release of nutrients leading to healthier crops. Also, when it comes to weed control, hydroponics has the upper hand over conventional farming. It can successfully deliver chemicals and pesticides as needed to fully protect the crop from unwanted pests and diseases.