trends & technology
Aquaponic Systems
Aquaponics is a hybrid of aquaculture ( fish farming ) and hydroponic gardening . Aquaponic systems use the waste produced by fish to feed the plants . Some of the most ancient “ hydroponic ” methods used to grow crops were essentially outdoor aquaponic systems . The biggest advantage of outdoor aquaponic systems is the ability to produce two sources of food ( fish and vegetables ) from one system . Aquaponic systems also reduce the need for fertilization of the plants . In fact , in a perfectly functioning aquaponic system ( with solar-powered mechanical pumps ), the only input would be the food for the fish .
Simplified Hydroponics
Simplified hydroponic systems are hydroponic systems often used by developing countries or in regions where access to power is impossible . Simplified hydroponics is soilless gardening without the use of mechanical equipment . In simplified hydroponic systems , the circulating or aerating of the system is done manually instead of with a mechanical pump . The two most common types of simplified hydroponic systems in use today are flood and drain systems and floating bed-type systems . The flood and drain systems are hand-watered once or twice a day with nutrient-infused water . The run-off is collected and reused . The floating beds are hand-aerated by stirring the water two or three times daily . The floating beds method is more susceptible to temperature fluctuations and would most likely be avoided in regions where dramatic temperature fluctuations naturally occur . Simplified hydroponic systems offer many advantages to farmers or families in developing nations , including selfsufficiency , the ability to recycle nutrients , and reduced water usage . A simplified hydroponic system can provide about $ 300 worth of food for around $ 30 worth of nutrients . The produce grown in a simplified hydroponic system is likely to be consumed shortly after harvest , which means it will retain a higher vitamin content and will be more flavorful . Also , when managed correctly , a simplified hydroponic garden will provide food three to four times faster than traditional methods .
Outdoor hydroponic systems also offer unique solutions to the problems facing urban areas and their inability to produce fruits and vegetables locally .
Hydroponic gardening ’ s role in agriculture is growing yearly . Although many outdoor agriculturists still have access to land , water , and nutrients , these resources are quickly diminishing . In terms of agriculture , outdoor hydroponic systems offer a real solution to many of the problems created by the depletion of our resources . Outdoor hydroponic systems also offer unique solutions to the problems facing urban areas , including their inability to produce fruits and vegetables locally . Don ’ t be surprised if , in the near future , architects include vertical rooftop systems or integrated hydroponic systems to typical building specifications . Finally , outdoor hydroponic systems are currently the best solution we have to combat many of the hunger issues facing under-developed nations . Simplified hydroponic systems could be the difference between self-sufficiency and starvation for many families and small communities . When you examine the advantages of hydroponic gardening combined with the need for the human race to take serious steps in reducing our depletion of resources , there is no doubt that outdoor hydroponic systems will be a staple in the future of agriculture .
Photo by Benjamin D . Esham via Wikimedia
96 grow cycle