Hidroponia
Hydroponics is a cultivation method where soil is not used. The roots of the plants are suspended in a liquid medium or supported on an inert substrate, being fed by an aqueous solution that contains all the essential nutrients for the development of the plant.
Despite being a very intensive production mode, Hydroponics is more environmentally friendly than Traditional Agricultural methods. In fact, water consumption is reduced (even in relation to organic production), it does not alter the soil resource, and the use of fertilizers and other phytopharmaceuticals is minimized. The word Hydroponics originates from two Greek radicals: hydro, which means water and ponos, which means work. Hydroponic cultivation is quite old, however, only in the 30's did significant advances emerge. The term Hydroponics was only used for the first time in 1935 by Dr. WF Gericke of the University of California, who developed a hydroponic system that could be used on a commercial scale.
Operating Principles
The plants are placed in channels or containers through which a nutrient solution circulates, composed of drinking water and nutrients dissolved in individual quantities that meet the needs of each plant species grown. These channels or containers may or may not have any means of support for the plants, the substrate, such as stones or sand. The nutrient solution has a strict control to maintain its characteristics, periodically a monitoring of pH and concentration of nutrients is made, so the plants grow under the best possible conditions.
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Advantages of Hydroponics vs. Traditional Soil Cultivation
The cultivated product has higher quality, the plants grow in a controlled environment, where all the plant's needs are met in the right quantity and at the right time. Thus, the size and appearance of hydroponic products are constant throughout the year.
It can be carried out anywhere, since its cultivation is independent of the land, it can be implanted closer to the consumer market.
There is no concern about crop rotation and replanting is immediate after harvest. In Hydroponics, cultivation is done in a clean environment, and whenever necessary, cleaning and disinfection is possible.
High productivity and early harvest, as plants are provided with good conditions for their development, there is no competition for nutrients and water. The roots do not need much energy to grow, anticipating the harvest point and increasing production.
Less use of pesticides. Insects, soil microorganisms and weeds are not problems, so it is not necessary to use pesticides for this purpose. In addition, protected cultivation protects the plant from rain and, consequently, the incidence of fungal diseases is lower, with less use and cost with fungicides.
Less waste of water and nutrients, in Hydroponics, water and nutrients are provided in a rational manner for cultivation. The water savings compared to the soil is around 70%.
Ergonometry is much better, as it works on benches. The work is lighter and cleaner.
Greater hygiene and production control. Production is done throughout the year as it is a protected crop.
Advantages of Hydroponics for the Consumer
Longer shelf life and outside, hydroponic products are harvested with roots, so they last longer in the refrigerator.
Plants do not come into contact with soil contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, slugs, insects and worms. This means that the consumption of hydroponic agricultural products is indicated for individuals suffering from toxoplasmosis and, in particular, for pregnant and lactating women.
Offering a differentiated product with greater added value, as it is a product of better quality, appearance and larger size, it becomes a differentiated product, lettuce leaves, for example, are cleaner, remaining fresh, tasty and crunchy, avoiding waste.
Plants are healthier, as they grow in a controlled environment seeking to meet the requirements of the crop.
All hydroponic products are sold packaged, not coming into direct contact with hands, boxes, trucks, etc.
Attack of pests and diseases is almost non-existent, reducing or eliminating the application of pesticides.
Offering a differentiated product, which can add a better price and easier marketing.
