Do you remember learning that plants need water, soil & sunlight? That's not all true anymore!

It’s actually completely possible for a farm or garden to be grown without soil and instead use an inert medium like organic coco coir and rock wool to support the root structure. The technical term for this mechanism is hydroponics and it can actually allow for the more efficient growth of plants by putting them in direct contact with the nutrient source.

To guarantee food security of a community, it has been necessary to locally implement increasingly advanced and modern agricultural technology. As you’re about to find out, there are lots of reasons why we need hydroponics, such as higher quality produce, sustainability, safer produce, and much more. 

What is hydroponics?

At its core, hydroponics is a method of growing plants. But instead of using soil, hydroponics depends on a water-based nutrient-rich solution. The idea may seem like a novel “hack”, but has actually been around for thousands of years and helped to enable population growth as the availability of arable land decreases. 

How does hydroponics work? 

Hydroponic systems work by allowing minute control over environmental conditions like temperature and pH balance and maximized exposure to nutrients and water. Hydroponics operates under a very simple principle: provide plants exactly what they need when they need it. 

Hydroponics administer nutrient solutions tailored to the needs of the particular plant being grown. They allow you to control exactly how much light the plants receive and for how long. pH levels can be monitored and adjusted. In a highly customized and controlled environment, plant growth accelerates.   

Hydroponics in India

In India, hydroponics is still in its infancy, with most farms being run as start-ups. On the other hand, large firms are entering the market, which will improve their commercial acceptance. According to research, India has more than 40 commercially functioning hydroponic farms, with some new farms in the works. Due to low yields, most farms cater to adjacent metro cities, and businesses locate farms near demand centres for logistical convenience.

While it is an expensive method, Many southern parts of India are turning to Hydroponics!