Using Soil in Hydroponics: Recommendations and Considerations
Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, involves the use of soilless mediums and nutrient solutions. However, can soil still be used in a hydroponics setup? In this article, we will examine the various aspects of using soil in hydroponics, including the aerophonic system, the advantages and disadvantages, and the hybrid systems that incorporate soil. We will also explore the differences between water roots and soil roots and the challenges that arise when transplanting plants grown in water to a soil environment.
The Aerophonic System
Aerophonic system
The aerophonic system, as defined by the aerophonic process, involves growing plants in an air or mist environment without soil. In this setup, roots are suspended in water that is enriched with plant nutrients that would normally be provided by soil. Many plants, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and strawberries, can adapt to this environment and thrive, even if they do not naturally grow in a submersed root condition.
Soil vs. Soilless Mediums in Hydroponics
Hydroponics typically uses soilless mediums like coconut coir, perlite, vermiculite, rock wool, or clay pellets. These mediums offer better control over nutrients, water, and aeration compared to soil. In hydroponics, nutrients are delivered directly through the water, allowing for precise control over the nutrient solution. This direct delivery system can prevent nutrient imbalances or deficiencies that may occur with soil.
Key Points:
- Soil vs. soilless mediums
- Nutrient control
- Pest and disease management
Soil can harbor pests, fungi, and bacteria that may introduce diseases to the plants. Soilless mediums can minimize these risks, making them a preferable choice for hydroponics. While some growers use a hybrid approach, incorporating soil within a soilless system, this method can complicate nutrient management and is not recommended for pure hydroponics.
Transplanting Plants from Water to Soil
Plants grown in water develop "water roots," which are soft and fragile. These roots do not have to work to obtain moisture and nutrients, as they are provided directly from the nutrient solution. On the other hand, "soil roots" grow when the plant's roots have to force their way through hard abrasive dirt to seek out moisture and nutrients. These roots also have to break down the nutrients in the soil to be absorbed by the plant, making the cellular tissue of a "soil root" much tougher and specialized.
Key Point:
- Water roots vs soil roots
Due to the difference in root structure, it is generally not advisable to abruptly transplant a water-rooted cutting or plant to a soil environment, as it will likely die. Conversely, soil-rooted plants can drown when placed in a water environment. However, if a water-rooted cutting is closely monitored, it can be moved to damp soil once it starts developing soil roots.
Conclusion
While soil can be used in some hybrid systems, it is not recommended for pure hydroponics due to issues related to nutrient management, aeration, and disease control. The aerophonic system and soilless mediums offer better control for the cultivation of plants in a hydroponics setup.
Final Thoughts:
- Advantages of soilless mediums in hydroponics
- Challenges of using soil in hydroponics
- Hybrid systems and their limitations
Hydroponics offers a controlled environment for growing plants, which leads to higher yields and less use of water and fertilizers. As the world looks for more sustainable ways to grow food, hydroponics continues to gain popularity. If you are interested in starting a hydroponics setup, consider the advantages of using soilless mediums and the aerophonic system for the best results.