The history of hydroponics has been around for centuries. It was once believed that 600 B.C. Babylon used hydroponic principles. The Aztecs also had floating gardens on Lake Tenochtitlan. Both cultures used hydroponics the same way we use it today.
What Hydroponic Plants Need to Grow
Hydroponic plants essentially need the right temperature, proper amount of light, water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and mineral nutrients. They also need proper water culture, aeration, a pure water supply, natural or artificial light, and a nutrient solution. When hydroponic plants have all these things, a gardener can grow their favorite crops all year long. A soil-free garden can deliver all the nutrients plants need directly to their root systems. The energy plants would normally use to push through soil can be used to grow faster and better fruits, vegetables or flowers.
Custom-made Container Systems
Many people make their own containers suitable for their hydroponic plants. Some can be made for under £50. These floating gardens are usually made from materials easily found in your local hardware store. One may start with a storage tote made of Styrofoam, cutting 1 5/8 inch holes to accommodate the net pots. Another solution would be to use wooden boxes with plastic containers and Styrofoam. Use rock wood blocks as a base for the plants to sit in and make sure you always use drip lines to ensure a pure water supply.
Vertical Containers
Vertical containers, or “growth towers,” can be purchased in vertical growing kits from your local nursery or from an online store. This option is great for small spaces and plants that would grow on a vine. These containers could be for inside or outside hydroponic gardens.
Advantage of Containers
These containers are ideal for small inside gardens, or outside gardens in small or large spaces. One advantage of having your hydroponic plants in containers would be that they are mobile. These containers may be placed on concrete, a kitchen counter, the ground or grass.
How Much Container Do You Need?
A gardener would need to decide what type of plants they want to grow. After this decision, they need to decide whether they are growing the plants inside or outside. For inside plants, you could use a 2 – 3 gallon container. For outside plants, you may use a 5 – 6 gallon container. The size of the container will determine how big the plant will grow over time. Since plants are not competing for space, more plants can be grown, which will yield more fruits or vegetables.
Any Type Container Will Do
Any type of non-porous container will do. All you need to do is to use caulk or silicone to stop the drainage holes. Ensure you incorporate all the things you will need for this plant to be successful in its soil-free environment. As in ancient times, hydroponic plants flourished and provided fruits and vegetables. Using simple economical containers, you can enjoy these plants in a small or large a area in your home.
Hydroponics Blog 