The thing that differentiates hydroponic gardening from traditional outdoor gardening is the soilless growing medium which is used instead of dirt. Plants need to be supported, but not necessarily with soil. The growing mediums used in hydroponics are able to provide these nutrients using an inert non-organic material. Most hydroponic materials are very light, and have a grainy, porous nature that makes the nitrogen and other nutrients easily accessible to the plant's root system. Here's a look at some of the most common types of hydroponics growing mediums.
Rockwool is made from fibers spun from melted Basaltic rock and formed into blocks. By changing the pressure applied during the compression phase, the manufacturer can create Rockwool with different densities. This hydroponic medium offers several advantages, most notably its convenience, easy handling, good stability for plants and the fact that seeds can be planted directly into it.
Another popular medium is Perlite, created by lengthening glass silica flakes through the use of heat. Many people like Perlite because it has good drainage qualities, holds water well and is reusable. It is a common choice for hydroponic gardeners owing to its low density and relatively lower cost. However, it cannot be used on its own for ebb and flow hydroponics because it tends to float away during flooding cycles.
Another common alternative is coconut coir, which is derived from the husk of coconut shells. This material is capable of absorbing and holding up to 8 times its own weight in water, thanks to the millions of tiny sponges that make up this substance. In terms of longevity, it lasts three times longer than peat moss, making it a much better choice. In addition to its amazing water retention abilities, coconut coir also offers excellent aeration for the roots. Among the disadvantages of coconut coir is that it breaks down after several uses and has some drainage issues.
Lightweight expanded clay aggregate is another popular choice in hydroponics growing mediums. The clay is heated to very high temperatures, then formed into granulated balls that are about a quarter of an inch in size. It has superior drainage and moisture retention abilities, and doesn't shift around during use. On the downside, it doesn't hold moisture as well as mediums such as coconut coir and tends to be more expensive.
Rockwool is made from fibers spun from melted Basaltic rock and formed into blocks. By changing the pressure applied during the compression phase, the manufacturer can create Rockwool with different densities. This hydroponic medium offers several advantages, most notably its convenience, easy handling, good stability for plants and the fact that seeds can be planted directly into it.
Another popular medium is Perlite, created by lengthening glass silica flakes through the use of heat. Many people like Perlite because it has good drainage qualities, holds water well and is reusable. It is a common choice for hydroponic gardeners owing to its low density and relatively lower cost. However, it cannot be used on its own for ebb and flow hydroponics because it tends to float away during flooding cycles.
Another common alternative is coconut coir, which is derived from the husk of coconut shells. This material is capable of absorbing and holding up to 8 times its own weight in water, thanks to the millions of tiny sponges that make up this substance. In terms of longevity, it lasts three times longer than peat moss, making it a much better choice. In addition to its amazing water retention abilities, coconut coir also offers excellent aeration for the roots. Among the disadvantages of coconut coir is that it breaks down after several uses and has some drainage issues.
Lightweight expanded clay aggregate is another popular choice in hydroponics growing mediums. The clay is heated to very high temperatures, then formed into granulated balls that are about a quarter of an inch in size. It has superior drainage and moisture retention abilities, and doesn't shift around during use. On the downside, it doesn't hold moisture as well as mediums such as coconut coir and tends to be more expensive.
About the Author:
Sarah writes for the Hydroponic Gardening site. Visit the site to learn more about this convenient form of indoor gardening, from setting up a homemade hydroponics system to choosing the proper lighting for your plants.
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