Plants can't survive without potting soil? Wrong thought! Hydroponics is the proof. Read on this page how effective and easy to care for this form of husbandry is. Would you like to try hydroponics yourself? Then you will find all relevant information about implementation here.
What is hydroponics and which houseplants are suitable for it?
Hydroponics is a low-maintenance way to keep houseplants without potting soil. It offers advantages such as freedom from pests, easier fertilization and lower susceptibility to disease. Any houseplant can be suitable for hydroponics as long as it has enough support.
Advantages of hydroponics at a glance
- easy care
- no pests that nest in the substrate
- Plants are less susceptible to disease
- easy fertilization
- easier watering
- clean and hygienic
- well-aerated roots
- no allergy-causing substances in the apartment
- optimal for office spaces
The origin of hydroponics
Plants have always been used to growing in water. Many thousands of years ago, the first plants grew on lava rock, which was flooded with water during heavy rainstorms. However, breeding is only successful if the plant is accustomed to the way it is kept right from the start.
Important questions about construction
A hydroponics consists of three zones:
- the wet zone: here a thin layer of water provides the roots with the necessary moisture
- the wet zone: consists of a drainage made of expanded clay
- the dry zone: ends with the upper edge of the vessel
Which plants are suitable for hydroponics?
Basically, you can grow any houseplant you want in a hydroponic system. However, you should make sure that the plant has enough support in the vase. If the plant relies on a stable root ball, it is even possible to put it and the root ball in water. Some substrate sticks to the roots and holds the underground growth together. Clay granules are just as suitable for giving a plant support. Depending on the variety, you can adjust the fineness of the grain.
Important utensils
Hydroponics saves you from having to water every day. Nevertheless, you should not leave the plant to its own devices when it comes to water supply. Be sure to install a water level gauge (€4.00 on Amazon). This shows you when the next watering is required. Although the distance varies from plant to plant, you usually only need to give new water every two to four weeks.
Note: A water level gauge also warns you not to add too much water to the vessel. In this case, the houseplant will suffocate.
Nutrient supply
Expanded clay serves as a substrate replacement, but does not contain any nutrients itself. You have to add these using a depot or liquid nutrient. Check the water quality at regular intervals to determine whether the nutrient supply is still sufficient.
