Hydroponics Growing Without Soil :: essays research papers fc

Hydroponics Growing Without SoilThe science of growing plants without soil has been cognize and employ for more than one-hundred years. The word &8220hydroponics, however, is comparatively new. Dr. W.E. Gericke is usually given book of facts for coining the word, which translated from Greek, means &8220working water. The famous hanging gardens of Babylon were probably on of the inaugural attempts to grow plants hydroponically. The work of Dr. Greicke in the 1920&8217s and 1930&8217s in California, however, is principally considered the basis for nearly all forms of hydroponics. During the 1940&8217s at Purdue University, Robert B. and Alice P. Withrow developed other hydroponic method. Their process was called Nutriculture. Nutriculture varied from Dr. Gericke&8217s method in that sire was used as a rooting medium.After World warfare II a number of commercial installations were built in the unite States. The majority of these were located in Florida. Most were out of doors a nd subject to the rigors of the weather. ridiculous construction techniques and operating practices caused many of them to be unsuccessful and production inconsistent.How is the tonus of the food today affected by the methods of Hydroponics of today? embodyThe growing media that is used for gardening greatly effects the production of the plants. If linchpin is used as a medium it should be tested soundly for any residue that might cause infected growing medium. The spinal column should be cleaned at least every three of four weeks. leach is also a major step, it is to be done at the close of each crop cycle ( Jones 69-70). Sand that is used for the medium should score sawdust mixed with it to allow for better drainage. The sawdust also makes the sand lighter and non pact together as easy ( Bridwell 86).Gravel is another medium, it is used more often because it is easier to clean. If gravel is used round, smooth, river-type is preferred. Granitic types are the beat out beca use of its hardness. Whatever type of gravel that is purchased must be thoroughly water-washed and cleaned to get rid of any calcareous on the gravel. The size is also a factor when selecting gravel. The pieces of gravel should be no smaller than a quarter inch in diameter and larger than a half(a) inch. Crushed stone is not preferred because the sharp edges can shock the root system.The sterilizing process is an easy, but a long and tedious job.