CHARACTERISTICS OF HYDROPONICS (MATERIALS)Traditional agriculture could be said to be an art, but hydroponics is a science in which all the elements that determine plant growth are controlled.NUTRIENT SOLUTIONThe composition of the nutrient solution requires sufficient concentrations of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and sulphur, as well as other elements in smaller quantities. Many are obtained from salts, but they can also be supplemented or even substituted by organic fertilisers, such as cattle manure or bird guano. Other possible sources of nutrients are organic compounds such as fish-meal, wood or grain scraps, or seaweed.SUBSTRATESIn hydroponic crops, the plants draw the nutrients from the solution, but they still need a support and the roots have to be sufficiently aerated. Some of the most widely-used substrates are: PER LITE, PUMICE OR VERMICULITE: very light and porous stones that retain water but allow air to circulate through the roots.RICE HUSK, WOOD FIBER OR WOOL: these break down slowly, but they are very efficient in keeping the roots aerated.ROCK WOOL: this is obtained by melting basalt rock and obtaining filaments that form a kind of sponge that does not break down.HYDROPONIC TECHNOLOGYA hydroponic crop requires more technology and precision than a conventional one. Some of the necessary instruments and equipment are: CONDUCTIVITY METERS: the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution indicates the amount of dissolved nutrients and whether they need to be replenished.pH METERS: it is essential to control the acidity of the solution and substrate, as the optimal level is different for each crop.LIGHTING: Sunlight, artificial light, or a combination of both can be used to maximize yield. In recent years the use of LED lights has increased due to their low consumption.AIR CONTROL: in closed environments, the concentration of CO2 in the air can be increased to improve fertility. CONTACT US
