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Guide To Hydroponic Gardening For Beginners

Hydroponic gardening doesn't have to be complicated. Here's an informative hydroponic gardening guide for beginners.

By MaddyPublished 2 years ago 4 min read
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Gardening is one of the most physically and mentally beneficial hobbies that an individual can engage in. On top of that, gardening is also a lot of fun. However, for some, the idea of growing a garden can feel like a dream.

With the invention of indoor and space efficient gardening systems such as hydroponics, gardening is now available to more people than ever before. Whether they live on a small lot or in a cold climate.

While hydroponics may sound complicated, there are many different systems that can be employed. This means that beginners can gradually develop a small indoor garden into a flourishing producer of plants, fruits and vegetables.

Defining hydroponics

A hydroponic gardening system relies on the use of nutrient filled solutions and water rather than soil in order to grow and sustain plants. As such, plants will grow with their roots directly submerged or misted with water based nutrients.

By removing the need for soil, plants can develop with the help of indoor gardening systems. With this in mind, there are significant environmental and individual benefits to consider. Firstly, hydroponics requires around 10% of the water that a soil-based garden consumes.

Additionally, there are little to no pesticides used in this form of gardening. This drastically limits the number of chemicals being released into the broader environment through the air or through water run off.

Hydroponics means that individuals can maximise small spaces and enjoy a quick supply of produce. This is because, when a plant grows in soil, its roots are always searching for water and nutrients. However, when plants grow in water, energy doesn’t have to be exerted for sustenance. Rather, this energy can be focused on maturing quicker.

The elements to consider

When it comes to starting a hydroponic garden, there are a few different rules that beginners should be aware of. By taking the time to research different facts now, beginners can save themselves a lot of heartache down the line.

The most important tip centres around sunlight. You will find that most plants need at least six hours of sunlight a day. As such, you will need a lighting system complete with a timer to ensure that plants are getting adequate light.

There are also elements of humidity to consider. In terms of a hydroponics growing room, the ideal humidity is around 40% to 60%. It’s important to monitor humidity as high levels can result in fungal issues.

Water is the key aspect to hydroponic gardening. That’s why it’s important to monitor the pH level of the water. As such, the ideal range is between 5.8 and 6.2. If the water isn’t currently at this level, you will need to purchase specific key chemicals to get you back on track.

Choosing a system

When choosing a gardening system, there are many options to choose from. An indoor system such as aquaponics might be beneficial. For others hydroponic systems such as, ebb and flow or drip systems may prove more beneficial.

The different types of systems are:

  • Wicking system
  • Deep water culture
  • Drip system
  • Aeroponics
  • Ebb and flow
  • Nutrient film technique

Before committing to a hydroponic gardening system, it’s important to note what materials will be required. While there are different gardening systems, each will be comprised of key components.

These key components include, of course, the nutrient solution. The next piece to acquire is a reservoir that will hold this solution. To house plants, a suitably sized growing tray is needed. A growing medium, which essentially acts as a soil substitute is also needed.

From there, depending on your chosen system, you will need to look at acquiring submersible pumps and air pumps. This way, the nutrients can effectively and efficiently travel through the reservoir to reach your plants.

Getting started

While hydroponics, the different systems and the various pieces of equipment might seem overwhelming, beginners can flourish. With this in mind, it’s important to take slow and informed steps.

As such, while there are many plants, fruits and vegetables to grow, it’s best to start with non-fruiting varieties. This is because these plants are inherently durable and fast growing. This combination helps you learn hydroponics and make mistakes without causing damage.

Once the art of growing non-fruiting varieties is mastered, you can move your attention elsewhere. The next best step would be to grow vegetables that can be used in salads, as well as herbs.

Growing a hydroponic garden

Gardening is a hobby that can be enjoyed by all, whether you are young or entering the twilight of life. Gardening is also a hobby that can be enjoyed whether you live on a small lot or an expansive estate.

This is because increasingly popular gardening methods such as hydroponics can actually operate indoors. Giving you valuable outdoor space back, all while providing you with abundant flowers, fruits and vegetables.

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About the Creator

Maddy

Maddy has a journalism background and is an aspiring novelist. Proud dog mum to two border collies TJ and Max and has the ability to decipher any Taylor Swift song lyrics hidden meanings.

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