Even in quite arid countries, there is usually a belt of green vegetation that follows the wriggling course of a river. Closer inspection will show that many plants grow with their roots in the water. This fact may be behind the concept of hydroponic farming.
There are many different types and styles of farming, ranging from extensive plantations to the keeping of animals in cages. The art and science of growing plants in water has its place in the agricultural scene but a farmer needs to consider carefully whether it is appropriate for his particular circumstances.
Some people who own extensive plantations of sugar cane or rolling grassland, still install hydroponic units on their expansive estates. It is quite difficult to follow their logic, but they argue that they need tight scientific control in order obtain maximum control of variables and hence yields and profits. They turn to hydroponics seeking higher profit margins and leave large amounts of land unattended.
This method of farming involves the propagation of plant crops in a medium other than soil. A sterile medium such as gravel or vermiculite is used to hold the roots but all nutrients are supplied by water that is circulated around the roots of the plant. When the plants are harvested the process is clean and neat because there is no mud. Also during the growing period the nutrient rich water is circulated so that in fact less is needed than is the case of conventional irrigation where water drains away.
An obvious advantage of the method is that it is available even to city dwellers living where space is at a premium. Units on the top of skyscrapers can supply fresh vegetables and flowers. The elimination of transport and handling is of considerable economic significance.
Freshness is important to consumers of vegetables and flowers. Both taste and nutritional value can be lost under conventional handling methods. This is why live fish are sold from tanks in eastern supermarkets. Some also have hydroponic units from which growing plants may be harvested by shoppers.
A farmer has tight control over variables in a hydroponic unit. Because there is no soil acidity and soil borne pests and diseases are avoided. A high plant density can be retained without losing plants to competition and weather, since units are protected from direct sunlight and rain.
Hydroponic farming is intensive. The potential to profit from high density plantings is good, but there is little room for error. Technical knowledge is essential in order that optimum use is made of equipment and space. In many ways the operation is similar to a factory operation that needs to be maintained with maximum efficiency.
hydroponic farming
There are many different types and styles of farming, ranging from extensive plantations to the keeping of animals in cages. The art and science of growing plants in water has its place in the agricultural scene but a farmer needs to consider carefully whether it is appropriate for his particular circumstances.
Some people who own extensive plantations of sugar cane or rolling grassland, still install hydroponic units on their expansive estates. It is quite difficult to follow their logic, but they argue that they need tight scientific control in order obtain maximum control of variables and hence yields and profits. They turn to hydroponics seeking higher profit margins and leave large amounts of land unattended.
This method of farming involves the propagation of plant crops in a medium other than soil. A sterile medium such as gravel or vermiculite is used to hold the roots but all nutrients are supplied by water that is circulated around the roots of the plant. When the plants are harvested the process is clean and neat because there is no mud. Also during the growing period the nutrient rich water is circulated so that in fact less is needed than is the case of conventional irrigation where water drains away.
An obvious advantage of the method is that it is available even to city dwellers living where space is at a premium. Units on the top of skyscrapers can supply fresh vegetables and flowers. The elimination of transport and handling is of considerable economic significance.
Freshness is important to consumers of vegetables and flowers. Both taste and nutritional value can be lost under conventional handling methods. This is why live fish are sold from tanks in eastern supermarkets. Some also have hydroponic units from which growing plants may be harvested by shoppers.
A farmer has tight control over variables in a hydroponic unit. Because there is no soil acidity and soil borne pests and diseases are avoided. A high plant density can be retained without losing plants to competition and weather, since units are protected from direct sunlight and rain.
Hydroponic farming is intensive. The potential to profit from high density plantings is good, but there is little room for error. Technical knowledge is essential in order that optimum use is made of equipment and space. In many ways the operation is similar to a factory operation that needs to be maintained with maximum efficiency.
hydroponic farming
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