Based in Tampa, Florida, Steven A. Field, MD, is a retired physician with a background as an educator with the School District of Hillsborough County. Over the past decade, he has taught Florida students a wide range of science subjects such as AP biology, health sciences, and earth and space science. In his biotechnology course, Steven A. Field, MD, has taught subjects ranging from plant DNA extraction to hydroponics.
Defined by soil-less gardening, hydroponics involves employing mineral-rich water solutions and other nutrients in place of a conventional soil medium. Many plants thrive with their roots in water and can grow as much as 50 percent faster in this manner. As the water within hydroponic systems is conserved and reused, there is less need for a fresh water supply. At the same time, the indoor nature of most hydroponic systems means that vegetables, herbs, and fruits can be harvested year round.
A key to success with a hydroponic system involves selecting plant varieties such as strawberries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers that welcome moisture and have limited size potential. Another important element is selecting the proper nutrient mix. The primary nutrients of potassium, nitrogen, and magnesium are diluted in filtered water that is then given to the plants. Common secondary nutrients are also added and typically include manganese, iron, copper, zinc, boron, and molybdenum.
Defined by soil-less gardening, hydroponics involves employing mineral-rich water solutions and other nutrients in place of a conventional soil medium. Many plants thrive with their roots in water and can grow as much as 50 percent faster in this manner. As the water within hydroponic systems is conserved and reused, there is less need for a fresh water supply. At the same time, the indoor nature of most hydroponic systems means that vegetables, herbs, and fruits can be harvested year round.
A key to success with a hydroponic system involves selecting plant varieties such as strawberries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers that welcome moisture and have limited size potential. Another important element is selecting the proper nutrient mix. The primary nutrients of potassium, nitrogen, and magnesium are diluted in filtered water that is then given to the plants. Common secondary nutrients are also added and typically include manganese, iron, copper, zinc, boron, and molybdenum.
