From container gardens to aquaponic gardening and permaculture gardening, there have never been more ways to grow fresh produce. However, for new gardeners or even experienced growers, it can be challenging to tell which growing method is the right fit. While there is no wrong answer to which one is the right choice, there is a perfect fit for you based on your needs and goals.
Despite originating in ancient times, indoor hydroponic gardening is a technique that is rapidly growing in popularity. The ability to grow more fresh produce year-round, cut back on the use of pesticides, save space, and bring nutrition into communities in need, are all advantages of using an indoor hydroponic garden. Here is an overview of all of the main benefits of an indoor hydroponic garden.
Grow produce year-round
The primary benefit of an indoor hydroponic garden is the ability to grow produce year-round from nearly anywhere in the world. This is integral to communities prone to drought, floods, shortened growing seasons, as well as severe weather. It is also beneficial to communities without regular access to fresh produce, known as food deserts, and those who suffer from food apartheid. Indoor hydroponic gardens are also beneficial in urban areas that lack available green space.
Grow a high yield of produce and greens
Indoor hydroponic gardens are designed to produce large amounts of food in much smaller spaces than traditional gardens. Some systems are vertical and allow gardeners to grow up to 25+ lbs of fresh food every 28 days. This makes it possible to harvest up to 3,400 plants annually. Of course, to successfully meet your growth goals, the environment has to be optimal – the right lighting, nutrient-rich water, temperature control, and the best possible hydroponics system.
Cultivate nutrient-rich, healthy produce
Rather than getting nutrients from the soil, hydroponic plants are grown using nutrient-rich water. The solution includes a concentrated material of macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium perfect for plant growth. The process results in nutrient-rich, healthy fruits and vegetables like leafy greens, herbs, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, baby cucumbers, and more.
Minimize plant disease
Many diseases that impact plants do so through the soil, making hydroponic systems a preferable choice since they are soil-less. In addition to better quality produce, lessening the chance of disease also decreases the amount of food waste, reduces the need for the use of any chemicals, and promotes a better growth environment.
Save space
Hydroponic systems are compact and vertical towers, making it possible to equip a variety of spaces. Whether an apartment, a library, or a restaurant, individuals and organizations can find the right modular hydroponic gardening system to best suit their space. Additionally, many systems are mobile, making it easy to shift the systems around.
Conserve resources
Hydroponic gardening systems are controlled environments, making it possible for growers to use fewer resources, such as water, fertilizer, land, and energy, while still growing exceptional produce. For instance, according to some studies, hydroponic gardens can use up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods. This makes hydroponic systems a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional agriculture methods. As there are fewer pest issues with hydroponics, farmers also don't need to use as many pesticides and chemicals, if any at all.
Get consistency in growth and quality
Aside from the benefit of better quality produce, another perk of indoor hydroponic gardens is the consistency of the systems. Once a gardener masters the process, learning how to fine-tune the conditions, care for the produce throughout the growth cycle, implement the right nutrients, and adjust the lights, as well as the water quality and spacing of the plants, it's easier to predict how much produce you'll yield. This is very beneficial for communities and organizations in need of fresh fruit and veggies consistently.
Faster plant growth
With the nutrient-rich solution used for hydroponics, many gardeners experience faster plant growth. The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system makes it possible to feed the roots of the plants directly, supplying them with the minerals needed to foster this rapid pace. This also contributes to gardeners growing a great deal of fresh food every month.
Choosing your indoor hydroponic garden
From sustainability to larger harvests, hydroponic gardening has many benefits. Today, there are a lot of hydroponic gardens to choose from, each with its own advantages. Our Flex Farm, for example, meets all of the pros of hydroponic gardening – conserving resources, making it possible to grow year-round, and space-saving. Fork Farms also provides ongoing support for our customers throughout the entire process, from sales to onboarding to setup. Customers can also utilize our online community of growers to get advice, share tips, and troubleshoot.
For more information:
Fork Farms
Alex Tyink, Co-founder and CEO
[email protected]
www.forkfarms.com