trends & technology
to rise and then exceed the desired temperature range for optimal growth . Modifications may have to be made to a typical hydroponic system to make the system operate as smoothly as possible in an outdoor environment . As with traditional agriculture , regions with cold winters would not be able to grow crops year-round in an outdoor hydroponic system . Extending the growing season is one of the main reasons horticulturists choose to grow indoors or in a greenhouse .
Types of Hydroponic Systems Used Outdoors
Just about any type of hydroponic system can be used outdoors with success . That said , hydroponic systems in which the root mass is constantly submersed in water ( deep water culture ) are typically
Over the past ten years , three types of hydroponic systems have come into the forefront of outdoor hydroponics . Those systems are vertical hydroponic systems , aquaponic systems , and simplified hydroponics . avoided due to the difficulty of controlling water temperature fluctuations . Top feed , flood and drain , and aeroponic systems are all commonly used with great success . Growers will often modify these commonly used hydroponic systems when operating them outdoors . Lining the hydroponic system and reservoir with a reflective insulating material can help protect the roots from prolonged exposure to intense sunlight and / or temperature fluctuations . Covering the hydroponic system will also help protect the plastic or other materials from being damaged by sunlight . Plants grown in an outdoor hydroponic system can grow extremely fast , which means they will take up more water and nutrients than when in an indoor environment . Over the past ten years , three types of hydroponic systems have come into the forefront of outdoor hydroponics . Those systems are vertical hydroponic systems , aquaponic systems , and simplified hydroponics .
Vertical Systems
Vertical hydroponic systems are hydroponic systems that are set up vertically instead of horizontally . The biggest advantage of this type of system is maximization of floor space . Since the plants are set up in vertical rows , more plants can fit in a given garden area . This is the main reason why vertical hydroponic systems are utilized in rooftop gardens and in other gardens where space is limited . There are also many vertical hydroponic systems that can be integrated into urban planning and development . For example , constructing vertical hydroponic systems on the sides of buildings or other structures can be a way to produce food in densely populated areas .
94 grow cycle