subject: Controlling The Factors Of Plant Growth And Development [print this page] Hydroponic systems have wide range of applications. These include laboratory botanical experiments, edible plant (fruits and vegetables) propagation, agricultural and horticultural aid, and ornamental purposes. These systems are excellent alternative to the traditional growing of plants with the use of soil. They are ideal for urban settings as well as for places that naturally do not have nutrient-rich soil such as in the case of deserts or islands with dominantly gravel or rocky surface.
These systems are becoming popular among gardening enthusiasts mainly because of the convenience they provide in terms of controlling the different factors of plant growth. Hydroponic systems also enable plant growers to save valuable water and nutrient resources. The reason behind this is that plants can absorb dissolved minerals more efficiently in hydroponic media as compared to soil.
Growth media
Soil in not really essential to the growth and development of plants. The minerals and other nutrients that are found in soil are the ones that are important in the biological functions of plants. The soil mainly serve as the reservoir and buffer for minerals and water. Hence, growing plants without soil is not only possible but more effective. Plants can be grown in different media such as sand, rock wool, wood fiber, pumice, expanded clay and brick shards. They can also be grown without any solid medium. Plants may only need a continuous or circulating supply of water with dissolved nutrients.
Essential nutrients
Another main advantage of hydroponic systems is the efficient absorption of dissolved minerals and other nutrients. The amount of nutrients can easily be calibrated by plant growers and the reaction to other impurities can be minimized because of the relatively inert nature of some of the growth media.
Aside from light, water and carbon dioxide, three types of nutrients are essential to plants. These are nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. The commercially available fertilizers, both organic and inorganic, always contain these three essential minerals. When it comes to hydroponic systems, plant growers can determine the exact mixture or proportion that they can apply directly to the growth medium.
Light and moisture
Many gardening stores offer hydroponic supplies that include complete starter kits. A basic starter kit include all the important hardware such as propagation trays, reservoirs, water pumps, tubing and fittings, and light source.
The amount of light can easily be controlled by using filters and dimmers. Electronic timers can also be connected to the electric light source to regulate the light cycle. Some plants require specific light and dark cycle for their optimal growth.
On the other hand, the amount of moisture can be regulated with the use of the water pumps and reservoirs. The water can be continuously circulated if necessary.
