Hydroponics, the art of growing plants without soil, has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its efficiency and sustainability. Whether you’re an aspiring urban farmer, a gardening enthusiast, or simply interested in exploring a new way to grow plants, learning hydroponics can be a rewarding journey. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of hydroponics, from the various types of systems to the possibility of organic hydroponics. We’ll also guide you through the best online hydroponics courses and even touch on the idea of enrolling in hydroponic college courses to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience.
6 Types of Hydroponics
Before diving into the learning process, it’s essential to understand the various hydroponic systems available. Hydroponics is a versatile practice, and there are several different types of systems you can choose from, depending on your goals, available space, and resources. These six types of hydroponics include:
- Deep Water Culture (DWC): In DWC systems, plant roots are submerged in a nutrient-rich water solution, making it an easy and popular choice for beginners.
- Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): NFT systems involve a thin film of nutrient solution flowing over the roots, ensuring constant nutrient supply to the plants.
- Aeroponics: Aeroponics systems mist the roots with a nutrient solution, allowing for maximum oxygen absorption and rapid growth.
- Wick System: Wick systems are one of the simplest hydroponic setups, using a wick to deliver nutrients to the plant roots.
- Drip Systems: Drip systems provide a controlled and precise nutrient supply by dripping the solution directly onto the plant’s base.
- Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain): Ebb and flow systems periodically flood and drain the root zone, combining the benefits of soil-based and hydroponic gardening.
Choosing the right type of hydroponic system will depend on your experience level, space, and the specific plants you want to grow.
Can You Grow Hydroponics Organically?
One question that often arises in the world of hydroponics is whether it’s possible to grow plants organically in a soilless environment. The answer is a resounding “yes.” Organic hydroponics combines the principles of organic farming with the precision and control of hydroponic systems. Organic hydroponics utilizes natural and organic nutrient solutions, avoiding synthetic chemicals and pesticides. This environmentally friendly approach ensures the growth of healthy, pesticide-free plants while conserving water and space.
Best Online Hydroponics Course
If you’re eager to learn hydroponics from the comfort of your own home, online courses can be a fantastic option. There are several excellent online hydroponics courses available, each catering to different skill levels and interests. Some top picks include:
- Udemy’s Hydroponic Gardening: Learn the ‘Home Farming’ Hacks: This course is perfect for beginners and covers the fundamentals of hydroponics, making it an ideal starting point.
- Coursera’s Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Specialization: A more comprehensive option, this specialization offers insights into sustainable agriculture, which includes hydroponics.
- Hydroponics 101 by American Hydroponics: This comprehensive course is a deep dive into hydroponic practices and techniques, suitable for all levels.
- Grow Food for Free: The Sustainable Hydroponics Method: This is an excellent choice for those looking to minimize costs and learn how to grow hydroponically on a budget.
Hydroponic College Courses
For those seeking to turn hydroponics into a serious career or academic pursuit, enrolling in hydroponic college courses is a fantastic idea. Many universities and agricultural institutions now offer specialized courses or even degrees in hydroponics. These courses provide a structured curriculum, hands-on experience, and access to cutting-edge research.
Some notable institutions offering hydroponic college courses include:
- University of Arizona: The Controlled Environment Agriculture Center offers degrees in Controlled Environment Agriculture, including hydroponics.
- University of Florida: Their College of Agricultural and Life Sciences provides courses and research opportunities in hydroponics and other innovative agricultural methods.
- Ohio State University: The Department of Horticulture and Crop Science offers courses and research programs focused on hydroponics and controlled environment agriculture.
- University of California, Davis: UC Davis offers courses and research in plant science and sustainable agriculture, including hydroponics.
Learning hydroponics, whether through online courses or college programs, is a valuable step towards a sustainable and efficient approach to growing plants. It offers a fascinating blend of science, technology, and agriculture, providing a rewarding and environmentally friendly way to cultivate your favorite crops. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, there’s a hydroponic path for you, and the journey is both exciting and fruitful. So, go ahead, take the plunge, and start your hydroponics adventure today!
Online Soilless Hydroponic Training in India (Features / Scope)
Five Hydroponics Modules and Q&A session will be included :
Module 1 – Controlled Environment Agriculture Overview
- What is Controlled Environment Agriculture ?
- History
- Indian Market Analysis
- Current scenario of Agriculture
- Objective of Controlled environment Agriculture
- Future of Controlled Environment Agriculture
- Advantages of Controlled environment agriculture over traditional farming.
- Opportunity
Module 2 – Technical Aspects of Controlled Environment Agriculture
- Guide to Controlled Environment Agriculture
- Introduction to protected cultivation project development
- Types of Protected cultivation practices
- Working principle
- Specification : Site selection , design and covering material, climate control and energy use, choice of crop species
- Water requirement and Irrigation Management
- Nutrition Management in Soilless Culture
- Integrated Pest Management
- SWOT Analysis on different polyhouse structure
Module 3 – Soilless cultivation method of growing capsicum/cucumber/Tomatoes using growbag with cocopeat
- Introduction to Soilless cultivation using growbags with cocopeat
- Types of cocopeat and its benefits
- About Capsicum
- Capsicum cultivation requirements: types of cocopeat, suitable climatic condition, nutrition required etc.
- Crop cycle (germination to harvesting)
- Temperature maintenance and irrigation management
- Venturi and Fertigation Unit
- Pest and disease control
- Yield difference in CEA and traditional farming
- Tips for better and high quality yield of capsicum/cucumber/tomatoes cultivation
- Scope and importance of capsicum cultivation
Module 4 – Commercial Aspects
- Demand and supply of capsicum in India and globally.
- Cost and profit analysis of protected cultivation of Capsicum/cucumber/tomatoes.
Module 5 – Governance
- Loans and subsidy for soilless cultivation using grow bag with cocopeat in NVPH.
Process of Participation :
- Registration Charges (Free)
- Zoom Meeting joining details will share after Registration is Completed.
- Date Of Training: 9th July 2023
- Training Time: In the Morning – 11:00 AM To 1:00 PM
- Online Hydroponics Training Program – FREE
- Online Training details will share after the completion of Registration.
