Hydroponics or Aquaponics?

Some groundbreaking ways to garden are making the scene in the US. Although not new to other parts of the world, growing plants without soil is not new! There is evidence as early as the 10th century of floating gardens. That’s right! What we thought was one of the three necessary ingredients to grow plants we find is not so necessary. Soil, water, and sunlight minus the soil.

Let’s define these techniques:

·       Hydroponics involves growing plants in containers within a water system that feeds the root system of the plants with nutrient soluble solutions, without soil.

·       Aquaponics involves growing fish and plants together within the same environment, with water, plant containers, and fish to aerate the water base.

Here are a couple of short videos to demonstrate:

A 4-minute video by Eden Green

https://www.edengreen.com/blog-collection/what-is-hydroponics

A 6-minute video by Trees.com

https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=AJOqlzWsMtcXcRCHc6Cm6iGLQCN-NaTAUg:1678310087866&q=aquaponics&tbm=vid&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwimtPCkoM39AhUdmGoFHX3LBLkQ0pQJegQIDBAB&biw=1160&bih=578&dpr=1.25#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:2fd5d846,vid:pqjHT8MFSow

In addition, a great follow-up article:

https://www.trees.com/gardening-and-landscaping/advantages-disadvantages-of-hydroponics

Which technique is better? Here is a short answer.

Hydroponics is the better choice if you want to grow plants using chemical nutrients. However, if you want the organic way of growing plants, then choose aquaponics. Much of the decision for growers will also come down to the practicality, start-up cost, and maintenance cost for both systems. The more expensive system is Aquaponics requiring the purchase of fish and special pumps.

Hydro means water. Aqua means water with marine life. Ponic means to labor. So, whatever you choose, choose to ‘ponic’ or labor and plant, grow, and enjoy!

Until next time, remember the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart.

Dr. Michele