Hydroponics is a cropping system that makes plants grow in a nutrient-rich water solution. The water used in the hydroponics system can be recovered and recycled. It is put forward as a solution to combat climate change, to reduce the environmental damage, and species extinction caused by overexploitation and intensive farming.
Hydroponics systems produce a higher yield of food than conventional agriculture. The plants also grow in half the time. It also saves costs on herbicides and pesticides, along with lowering water consumption. The hydroponics system aims at ending food insecurity in places with harsh extreme weather and poor soils because the crops are grown in a controlled environment.
12 Types of Hydroponic Plants
Lettuce- Lettuce is considered the easiest plant to grow in a hydroponics system. This plant can grow in about 30 days and have a shallow root system that matches its short above-ground height. Lettuce requires a cool temperature to grow in and pH level should be between 6 to 7.
Strawberries- Strawberries are seasonal fruit and can’t be found locally. They can also be very expensive depending on your location. Strawberries usually take up to two months to grow in a growing medium at a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. They require low humidity.
Tomatoes- Many varieties of tomatoes can be produced widely in hydroponics systems. Tomatoes thrive in a controlled environment where it receives a lot of sunlight. The drip hydroponic system works well for tomatoes.
Cucumbers- Cucumber is an extremely popular variant of vining plants that can easily be grown in commercial greenhouses. Cucumbers can be grown all year round plus they have a high yield. They thrive in a warm environment in high temperatures with ample light. The pH level should be maintained at 5.5 to 6.
Spinach- Spinach is a leafy vegetable that grows quickly in a hydroponics system. Spinach grown in a hydroponics system uses less water than in-the-ground garden. This plant usually grows in about 40 days and the pH should be maintained at 6.0 to 7.5.
Beans- Beans such as green beans, pinto beans, lima beans, and pole beans is an excellent choices for growing in hydroponics systems as they require low maintenance. The seeds start to germinate within 3 to 8 days of planting. They can grow in full sunlight and can be harvested after 6 to 8 weeks of planting.
Bell pepper (capsicum)- Peppers can be grown along with tomatoes because they share the same growing condition. They usually take 2 to 3 months to harvest. Along with bell peppers, hot peppers such as habanero and jalapeno can also be grown in a hydroponics system.
Chives- Chives can be grown in a hydroponics system. They do not need plenty of water to grow, however, they do need plenty of light. They thrive in warm environments and in pH levels of 6 to 6.5.
Radishes- Radishes are amongst the easiest vegetables to cultivate in hydroponics. This crop thrives in cool temperatures and does not require much sunlight.
Blueberries- Blueberries are commonly grown in a hydroponics system. However, unlike strawberries, blueberries take a fairly long time to grow and will take months to bear fruits. Blueberries thrive in a warm environment and a pH level between 4.5 to 6.
Ginger- Ginger grows well in a hydroponics system and is well suited to protected cultivation in a humid and warm environment.
Basil- Basil is a herb that grows perfectly in a hydroponics system. It reaches its maturity stage very quickly.
