Hydroponics: Questions & Answers for Successful Growing PDF

Introduction

In the sciences there are always more questions than answers. Hydroponics is no exception. However, as hydroponics is an applied science, experience is gained each time it is used as a growing technique. New problems and questions arise with each type of soilless culture and with each crop grown. In fact, hydroponic growing of similar crops under different environmental conditions creates new problems. There are many variables in the growing of crops which producers encounter from one day to the next. Some cause problems, while others have little effect. The grower’s challenge is to closely observe these variabilities and identify their effects on plant growth. If the effect is injurious to plant health the grower must take steps to correct it immediately to prevent stress and additional harm to the plants.

Hydroponic culture minimizes some of the problems of plant culture, but there are still problems and many answers to be discovered.

The purpose of this book is to review many questions associated with hydroponic culture and to offer useful suggestions. The questions relate to hydroponic systems, plant varieties, plant nutrition, plant culture, plant disease and pest management, environmental factors, optimum ranges, production and marketing. Recommendations come from experiences of others and myself over the past twenty years of hydroponic growing. I will approach these questions under various topics for quick reference within a subject.

Author: Howard M. Resh