Most of us will have heard of growing plants by hydroponics but not everyone knows exactly how this works. Plants grown in hydroponics are basically grown in a medium that isn’t soil.
In soil, the plant's roots search for nutrients, water and air but in a hydroponic setting, these elements are directly available to the roots in the first instance. The energy that the plant would normally use to search for these necessities is put into growth. The results then are taller, bushier plants that grow much quicker.
Hydroponic grow systems are in affect plants that are generally grown in water but a range of other mediums can be used to create results. Rockwool, for example, is a fantastic, lightweight material perfect for hydroponic growth. Its porous base is ideal for drainage. Rockwool is fairly cheap to buy and can be purchased in the form of cubes or slabs – whichever you prefer.
Cubes are useful - seeds are planted in each cube and if any don’t grow, they can be removed and replanted or simply left dormant. Rockwool is a sturdy material, excellent for this purpose but be careful to test the pH levels of the water once it is used. Rockwool usually causes the pH levels to stir so a pH kit will be needed.
Rockwool isn’t the only choice available, however. Many other materials can be used such as sand, gravel, perlite or vermiculite. There are advantages and disadvantages to using sand. While plants tend to grow well in it and it is easy to use, it doesn’t deliver such good results in a hydroponic setting as other mediums.
As an option, gravel can be used to create a sturdy medium for plants. On the downside, it must be cleaned thoroughly before it is used and a pump would be needed to allow water and air to flow through the system due to its weight.
If you want to go with a gravel like medium, then perlite may be the answer. This volcanic rock is heated to create lightweight pebbles. Its ability to retain air is great for plants grown in hydroponics as it helps to keep the water oxygenated.
Similar to perlite, vermiculite is another material that can be used. These small pebbles are a flexible, supporting medium for plants grown in Hydroponic grow systems. In a capillary action, water is drawn in and helps with providing water and nutrients to the plant. Vermiculite holds more water than perlite so would need to be used in moderation. Some people find using a mixture of the two materials creates finer results.
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