HYDROPONIC NUTES

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient-rich water solution. The word comes from the Greek words hydro, meaning water, and ponos, meaning labor. 

Benefits of hydroponics

• Saves water: Hydroponics can save up to 90% of water. 
• Saves land: Hydroponics can be used in areas with limited arable soil, such as deserts. 
• Sustainable: Hydroponics helps reduce environmental damage and species extinction. 
• Faster growing time: Plants can grow faster and larger in a hydroponic setup. 
• No weeding: Plants don't need to be weeded in a hydroponic system. 

How it works 

• Plants are grown in a nutrient solution in an artificial environment.
• The solution is delivered directly to the roots of the plants.
• The roots absorb the water and nutrients through osmosis.
• The roots need to be sufficiently aerated.

Uses of hydroponics

Hydroponics can be used to grow a wide variety of plants, including vegetables, herbs, and ornamental crops. 

Nutrients in Hydroponics

The nutrients used in hydroponics include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, magnesium, iron, boron, zinc, and copper. These nutrients are added to the water solution that feeds the plants. 

How these nutrients help plants

• Nitrogen: Used for plant growth before flowering or fruiting 
• Phosphorus: Helps plants store and transfer energy, which can lead to higher yields 
• Potassium: Helps strengthen plant stems and maintain osmotic balance 
• Sulfur: Helps plants build proteins, amino acids, and vitamins 
• Magnesium: A key component of chlorophyll, which is used to capture energy from light 
• Iron: Helps plants manufacture chlorophyll, form enzymes, and form amino acids 
• Boron: Helps plants grow tissue, absorb water, and regulate metabolism 
• Zinc: A micronutrient that plants need to survive