Peter explained hydroponic gardening is the process of growing plants without soil. There are various methods of growing plants under the term hydroponics, such as the flood and drain method, drip feed, nutrient film technique, aeroponics and aquaponics. The choice of which method to use would depend on the space you have available to you. Plants can be grown on a balcony, on a wall, or on a patch of concrete.
Peter said the practise of using hydroponics for growing plants has been used by many cultures for centuries. However, he believes the practise became popular after the Second World War when the US forces used hydroponics to grow vegetables while they were based in areas where fresh food was unavailable for them.
There are many benefits to using a hydroponic system for growing plants.
. Space efficient
. No digging, no weeding
. Water efficient
. Sterile conditions to grow plants
. Protection from weather conditions
. Easier to measure the amount of nutrients applied
. There are fewer pests and diseases
To grow plants in a hydroponic system, soil is replaced with a medium that contains no nutrients of its own. Mediums such as, perlite, vermiculite, baked clay balls, coarse river sand, sawdust, and rockwool. The nutrients are then supplied in the water in which ever system is being used. Peter showed a short video demonstrating different methods and the construction of the systems.
Peter belongs to a hydroponic garden club, which has been running for 35 years.
He encouraged members with an interest in hydroponic gardening to join their club to learn more.
For others, information can be found on the internet, go to the Hydroponic Gardening Society of Victoria Inc. website,
www.hydroponicsociety.org .
Peter answered questions from members. He kindly donated a Salad Green Grower container to raffle.
