Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without using soil. Most often water is used in hydroponic gardening, hence the name. Certainly, there are more technically precise explanations. But for the home gardener that’s probably all you need to know.

Perhaps you’ve wondered how you can grow plants hydroponically without soil. Many people are convinced that soil is necessary for the growth of a plant. It provides nutrition, physical support, energy and water. For a plant to thrive, you need all of these components. But these elements are also available from other sources.

Water is an absolute essential for any plant. However, soil isn’t the only way to provide it. Many plants grow wild in rocks or sand, and even floating on a body of water.

The energy provided by the sun’s rays and its heat are also essential to a plant. But sun warmed earth isn’t the only source of energy. The sun’s rays have the same effect on a plant’s leaves regardless of whether it’s in the ground or not. Photosynthesis, essential to a plant’s well being, will take place just as long as the top part of the plant gets sufficient light. There are plants that don’t require any light whatsoever. But they still require energy to fuel their natural growth cycles.

Most commonly grown plants require some sort of support to hold them up. Most often, this is achieved by planting them in the ground. That’s why the roots of a plant spread, and its stems are able to resist strong winds. However, there are other options for supporting your plants. Try weaving string through a fence-like structure, or fasten some craft sticks to the top of a container. There are other ideas that will also do the trick.

Nutrients are another of the important elements for a healthy plant. These include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and various trace elements. Normally, a plant will absorb these nutrients from the earth that surrounds it. However, they can also get these essential nutrients in other ways.

Submerging the plant’s roots in water that contains a liquid nutrient solution is a popular method. Some hydroponic systems feature a grow tent that is able to hold in moisture. The roots are sprayed frequently with a nutrient solution that soaks them thoroughly. This practice has similarities to aeroponics, another method of soil-less gardening.

Hydroponic gardening can produce beautiful, healthy plants. There are many varieties of plants that are able to flourish without soil, as long as they’re cared for properly.