What Is Organic Hydroponic Gardening? 5 Tips And Tricks

lettuce growing with organic hydroponic gardening

Curious about a fresh way to grow your favorite plants? Discover what is organic hydroponic gardening, an innovative method that’s gaining popularity!

What is organic hydroponic gardening, you ask? Imagine savoring fresh, tasty fruits and veggies grown right in your home, without the mess of soil. Organic hydroponic gardening is a unique blend of technology and nature that allows plants to thrive in water, nourished by natural nutrients. It’s not just a trend; it’s a new way to garden that’s capturing the hearts of green thumbs everywhere!

What is organic hydroponic gardening and is it possible to combine hydroponics with organic nutrients? I believe it can be done.

Many nutrient manufacturers have started offering organic nutrient lines for hydroponics.

It is important to use nutrients that will run clean and not create clogging. Many have even added beneficial bacteria to help promote plant health.

Do you like eating healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables? If so, you may want to consider organic hydroponic gardening!

Organic hydroponics is a type of gardening that does not use soil. Instead, plants are grown in water with special organic nutrients added.

This type of gardening is becoming more and more popular, as people become more interested in eating healthy, organic food. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of organic hydroponic gardening. We will also provide some tips for getting started!

What Is Organic Hydroponic Gardening?

To answer this question we first need to differentiate between organic nutrients and chemical nutrients.

So basically we will avoid manmade fertilizers and use those from natural sources.

Organic hydroponics is a hydroponics culture system based on organic agriculture concepts that does not use synthetic inputs such as fertilizers or pesticides. In organic hydroponics, nutrient solutions are derived from organic plant and animal material or naturally mined substances. Organic hydroponics – Wikipedia

If you are interested in growing your own food but do not have a lot of space, organic hydroponic gardening at home may be a good option for you.

Organic hydroponic gardens can be set up indoors or outdoors. They can also be set up on a small scale or a large scale.

No matter what your needs are, there is a way to set up an organic hydroponic garden that will work for you!

Benefits Of Organic Hydroponic Gardening

There are many benefits to organic hydroponic gardening. One of the biggest benefits is that you can grow your food all year round, no matter what the weather is like outside.

Another benefit is that you do not have to worry about soil-borne pests and diseases.

This type of gardening is also very water efficient. It uses much less water than field-grown crops. It is better for the environment too.

That is because only the area around the roots is watered directly while outdoors the surrounding soil around the plant is watered too.

The runoff from this type of agriculture can leach down into the water table and contaminate it.

If you are interested in setting up an organic hydroponic garden, there are a few things you will need to do.

First, you will need to choose the right location. Organic hydroponic gardens can be set up indoors or outdoors, but it is important to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight.

Second, you will need to set up your grow lights if growing indoors. Grow lights are essential for organic hydroponic gardens, as they provide the plants with the light they need to grow.

Third, you will need to choose the right nutrient solution. There are many different types of nutrient solutions available, so it is important to do some research to find the one that is right for your plants.

Finally, you will need to set up a watering system. Organic hydroponic gardens need to be watered frequently, so it is important to choose a watering system that is easy to use and maintain.

Did You Know Coco Coir Is An Organic Hydroponic Growing Medium?

It’s true and it works great with organic nutrients and can be used in several hydroponic systems.

Many people think of it as a soil alternative and although it can be used like soil if used properly it will produce hydroponic growth.

There are organic coco nutrients readily available too. I really don’t recommend using DIY organic nutrients in hydroponics.
These nutrients can be used in coco coir or in hydroponic systems.

I have used Canna Nutrients for many years and they are top quality.

 

Organic Hydroponics What You Should Know

Conventional hydroponics uses chemical salts to feed plants. They can be absorbed much faster than organic nutrients.

If you accidentally overfeed they can easily be flushed out.

But organic nutrients are a bit different. They are not as fast acting as salts but on the other hand, they are more persistent in your system.

It is also more likely to have problems with residue in your reservoir so you will need to clean more thoroughly between reservoir changes.

If your nutrients are homemade or not manufactured properly they can clog drip emitters.

I don’t use drip emitters. Instead in my drip systems, I use open-ended tubing to deliver water to my plants.

Best Systems For Organic Hydroponics

Top Feed Drip

This is a great system for growing plants. You can use it with coco coir, hydroton, grow stones, or even perlite.

If you use inert media you can recirculate your nutrients. Coco coir is a bit trickier to recirculate but it can be done.

Flood And Drain

Works best with inert media and recirculating your nutrients. I have seen it done with coco coir too.

Deep Water Culture

I have not tried this but it should work fine as long as you use clean organic hydroponic nutrients and can keep water temperatures below 72 degrees, 68 degrees is optimal for DWC.

DWC can be difficult even using more conventional methods because it is prone to root rot if temperatures warm. Using beneficial bacteria may help prevent this.

The Kratky Method

This is very similar to DWC but without airstones. It works great for lettuce and greens and other small fast growing plants.

Coco Coir In Pots Hand Watered

This is probably the simplest hydroponic method. The idea is to water coco coir so it does not ever dry out but never stays wet.

You need to get some runoff every time you water to prevent nutrient build up and you need to empty the saucers after you water.

There is an art to hand watering. Honestly, coco coir does best with frequent smaller waterings and this is hard to do without a timer and drip lines.

Comparison with Traditional Gardening

What is organic hydroponic gardening, and how does it stand in comparison to traditional soil-based gardening?

As more people turn their attention towards healthier and more sustainable living, organic hydroponic gardening is emerging as an innovative approach.

Let’s delve into the fundamental differences and unique benefits this method offers in contrast to conventional gardening.

Efficiency in Growth

Speed of Growth: Organic hydroponic gardening often results in faster plant growth since the nutrients are delivered directly to the roots.

Unlike soil gardening, where plants expend energy to search for nutrients, hydroponics ensures that all necessary nutrients are readily available.

Space Utilization: The compact design of hydroponic systems allows for more efficient use of space, making it ideal for urban environments or small living areas.

Traditional soil gardens typically require more area for the same yield.

Quality of Produce

Taste and Nutritional Value: Many gardeners report a richer flavor and higher nutritional content in hydroponically grown produce.

The controlled environment ensures optimal nutrient delivery, which often translates into better-quality food.

Pest Control: Organic hydroponic gardening minimizes the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests.

This leads to healthier plants and reduces the need for chemical pesticides, unlike traditional gardening, which may require such interventions.

Organic Hydroponics Environmental Impact

The buzz around what is organic hydroponic gardening extends beyond mere trendiness and into the realm of environmental consciousness.

As concerns about climate change and natural resource conservation grow, understanding the environmental impact of our gardening practices becomes crucial.

Here’s how organic hydroponic gardening measures up in terms of ecological footprint.

Water Efficiency

Less Water Consumption: Organic hydroponic systems typically use up to 90% less water compared to traditional soil-based gardening.

The water in hydroponic systems is recirculated, reducing waste.

Preventing Water Contamination: By precisely controlling the nutrients and avoiding synthetic chemicals, organic hydroponic gardening reduces the risk of water table contamination, a common issue in conventional agriculture.

Sustainable Nutrient Sourcing

Organic Nutrient Solutions: By using organic nutrient solutions derived from natural substances, organic hydroponic gardening supports sustainable practices and reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals.

Local Sourcing Potential: Organic hydroponic gardeners can often source nutrients locally, minimizing transportation-related emissions.

This contrasts with traditional gardening, where imported fertilizers and soil amendments might be used.

What Is Organic Hydroponic Gardening? FAQs

Have you ever wondered about growing your own delicious veggies without the mess of soil? Welcome to the world of Organic Hydroponic Gardening!

It’s a fascinating way to grow your food using water and organic nutrients, and it’s catching on like wildfire.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just curious about this innovative method, stick around as we dive into the what, why, and how of organic hydroponics. Let’s grow!

Q. What exactly is Organic Hydroponic Gardening?

A. Organic Hydroponic Gardening is a method of growing plants without soil, using water and special organic nutrients instead.

It avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, relying on natural sources for nutrients. It can be set up indoors or outdoors, on various scales, and offers a way to grow food all year round.

Q. Can I use any type of nutrient solution for Organic Hydroponic Gardening?

A. No, it’s essential to choose the right organic nutrient solution for your plants. Conventional hydroponics uses chemical salts, but in organic hydroponics, you’ll need to find nutrients derived from organic plant and animal material or naturally mined substances.

Research and proper selection are key to success so choose products that are OMRI certified.

Q. What are some of the best systems for Organic Hydroponic Gardening?

A. There are several systems suitable for organic hydroponics, including Top Feed Drip, Flood and Drain, Deep Water Culture, The Kratky Method, and hand-watering Coco Coir in pots.

Each system has its unique characteristics and requirements, so it’s best to choose one that fits your needs and preferences.

Q Are there any challenges or special considerations in Organic Hydroponic Gardening?

A Yes, organic nutrients can be more persistent and may lead to residue in your system, requiring more thorough cleaning.

If not manufactured properly, they can clog drip emitters. Water temperature control, especially in Deep Water Culture, and compatibility with organic nutrients are also essential considerations.

Using clean organic hydroponic nutrients and following proper practices can help overcome these challenges.

What Is Organic Hydroponic Gardening? Final Thoughts

Organic hydroponic gardening is a great way to grow your own food. It has many benefits, including the fact that you can grow your food all year round and that it is very water efficient.

Organic Hydroponic Gardening Tips

Before you do anything you must decide what hydroponic growing system you will use.

It has to be compatible with using organic nutrients. That eliminates aeroponics of NFT systems.

I recommend checking out this article on hydroponic growing systems.

If you are interested in setting up an organic hydroponic garden, there are a few things you will need to do.

• First, you will need to choose the right location.

• Second, you will need to set up your grow lights.

• Third, you will need to choose the right nutrient solution.

• Finally, you will need to set up a watering system.

With a little bit of planning and effort, you can have a thriving organic hydroponic garden! Good luck and happy gardening!

Read more:

Are Hydroponic Nutrients Required? 7 Easy Tips For Beginners

Hydroponic Gardening At Home: Easy Gardens Without Soil

LED Hydroponic Lighting: Easily Grow Plants with LED Lights

Hydroponic Grow Medium [What You Need To Know]