Author(s):

Shalini Kumari, Pratibha Pradhan, Ramjeet Yadav and Santosh Kumar

Abstract: In order to expand the scope for development in agriculture in India there is a need for Hi-tech production systems. To overcome constraints like water availability, small land holdings, disease and pest incidence, problematic soils etc. one of the most favoured system or technology which is highlighted currently is “Hydroponics”. Hydroponic crop production has significantly increased in recent years worldwide, as it allows a more efficient use of water and fertilizers, as well as a better control of climate and pest factors. Furthermore, hydroponic production increases crop quality and productivity, which results in higher competitiveness and economic incomes. Among factors affecting hydroponic production systems, the nutrient solution is considered to be one of the most important determining factors of crop yield and quality. Hydroponics is always soilless culture but not all soilless culture is hydroponics. Hydroponics uses less than 1/10th - 1/5th of the water used in soil cultivation. Plants can be grown in plain nutrient solution or in sterile substrates, therefore microbe free. Basic Requirements of Hydroponics: Growing media, Nutrient solution, Temperature, Air, Supporting materials, Water, Mineral nutrient and Light. All essential nutrients are supplied to hydroponic plants in the form of nutrient solution, which consists of fertilizer salts dissolved in water. The success or failure of a hydroponic garden therefore, depends primarily on the strict nutrient management programme. Carefully manipulating the nutrient solution pH level, temperature and electrical conductivity (EC) and replacing the solution whenever necessary, will lead to a successful hydroponic garden. Though hydroponic growers can formulate their own fertilizer mixtures to prepare nutrient solutions using completely water soluble nutrients salts, a number of formulations are available in the market to choose. Therefore, select fertilizers that are compatible with each other. Many research work on Hydroponics shows great profit, and microbes free food. This method of growing our food is a more sustainable model than those currently practised. The consumer is becoming increasingly concerned over health issues, environmental issues, even water consumption cost and availability these all are drivers for the further development of hydroponic growing techniques. Thus Soilless culture is not only a solution for problematic soils but it also helps to improve the quality and quantity of agriculture produce.

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