Hydroponics - Dirt-Free Gardening

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without using soil. Generally, hydroponic gardening involves the use of water as a growth medium. Certainly, there are more technically precise explanations. However, the average gardener doesn't actually require more knowledge than that.

Perhaps you've wondered how you can grow plants hydroponically without soil. Many people are convinced that soil is necessary for the growth of a plant. It's a source of water, energy, support and nutrients. These are all required in order for the plant to thrive. But these elements are also available from other sources.

Water is an absolute essential for any plant. However, soil isn't the only way to provide it. Many plants grow wild in rocks or sand, and even floating on a body of water.

Plants also need energy in the form of sunlight and heat. But there are other ways to provide your plants with energy apart from sun-saturated earth. Sunlight works directly on leaves the same way it does for plants in the soil. Photosynthesis, essential to a plant's wellbeing, will take place just as long as the top part of the plant gets sufficient light. There are plants that don't require any light whatsoever. They will, however, still need some energy to power their natural growth processes.

Many of the plants that appeal to the home gardener need some physical support. Planting them in soil is the most common and effective means of achieving that. That's why the roots of a plant spread, and its stems are able to resist strong winds. However, there are other options for supporting your plants. For example, string interwoven on a supporting frame or popsicle sticks attached to the top of a glass will work just fine.

A healthy plant also requires adequate nutrition. Potassium, nitrogen, phosophorus and some trace elements are included in this list. In a natural environment, the plant will take in these nutrients from the soil around it. But there are other ways to provide these important nutrients to your plants.

Submerging the plant's roots in water that contains a liquid nutrient solution is a popular method. Some hydroponic systems feature a grow tent that is able to hold in moisture. The roots are sprayed frequently with a nutrient solution that soaks them thoroughly. This practice has similarities to aeroponics, another method of soil-less gardening.

Attractive and thriving plants can result from hydroponic gardening. There are many kinds of plants that can thrive above ground. Just make sure you provide for their needs.