Indoor food production with hydroponics
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.
Photo courtesy Andrew Holsinger, Illinois Extension
An example of the Nutrient Film Technique hydroponic system.
Gardening indoors with hydroponics opens opportunity to have fresh produce all year long.
While most people may be content with gardening during the traditional growing season, others may wish to grow indoors using hydroponics. As the season changes the requirements needed to grow become limiting as winter approaches for outdoor production.
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plants are grown in water enriched with vital plant nutrients. The hydroponics system used somewhat depends on the type of crop and how to best deliver water and nutrients.
Consider these hydroponic systems:
ν Precision Drip – is used for long-season crops such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and strawberries planted in artificial soil. The nutrient solution is precisely placed where needed for plant uptake.
ν Recirculating Deep Water Culture (DWC) – is one of the simplest hydroponic systems to use especially in a home setting. Plants are suspended above a tank of water, while the roots soak in the nutrient solution below.
ν Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) – plants are grown in channels or troughs. The nutrient solution is pumped through the system, collected in a reservoir, and recirculates back through the system.
In addition to the hydroponic system, it is important to consider support and trellising required to manage the crop adequately for the space. Consider what the mature plant will grow into to ensure you have enough room for it to grow.
Artificial lighting is used to provide necessary resources of light in the absence of natural sunlight. The lighting provided can be from LED lights or florescent lighting.
The substrate or media used provides structure for the root system to grow. There are many types of substrates to choose from such as coconut coir, peat, rockwool cube, or expanded clay pellets. Each has its own pros and cons.
Gardening with any system has maintenance requirements. Scout hydroponics systems for clogs in the system regularly. Clean and sanitize as necessary to prevent the spread of disease.
For more information on hydroponics, connect with your local University of Illinois Extension county office at go.illinois.edu/ExtensionOffice.
Andrew Holsinger is a horticulture educator with Illinois Extension, serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties. Gardeners Corner is a quarterly newsletter from gardening experts around the state. Each issue highlights best practices that will make your houseplants, landscape, or garden shine in any season. Join the Gardener’s Corner email list at go.illinois.edu/GCsubscribe for direct access to timely tips.
