Discussion Board

Has anyone messed with Hydroponic Gardening and if so is it easier or harder then regular gardening?

And do you think it's better, worse or same nutritionally wise?

My DH had a hydroponic garden a couple of years ago. Photos and blog post about it here. It was the most productive garden we've had so far, partly I think because it was in a shaded and protected area. It surprisingly did not use any more water than a garden in the ground (or raised beds), but there is the initial expense of the growing medium and set-up, and continuing expense of the nutrients to consider.

He got rid of all his supplies when we moved out of town onto an acre. We've got a container garden now, but in soil, with plans to put in raised beds over the winter for next year's garden. In some respects, I think the hydroponic set-up was a lot less labor - no digging, no building beds, no weeds, etc.

In regards to nutrition, I can't say, but hydroponically grown plants are supplied with nutrients so the plants should be taking those up just like they would out of the soil. I'm sure some online research would yield the answer.

Thanks for your response Chile'. I've been reading a bit about it since I posted. Seems very interesting to me because you can basically do it year round. Wonder if I could get my hubby to give up part of his garage. laugh.

We did it outside so we didn't have to use artificial light. Worked great.

I was wondering about it too, especially for winter. I took a Microgreens course last week when I was at summerfest (Penn.) so think I may try that too.

My wife and I are just moving into hydroponics in our winter greenhouse. We have eaten organic hydroponic veggies and the taste is great. Nutrient content is guaranteed, as the grower maintains the nutrient mix, no worries about depleted soil.
We are running 3 trays along an 8' wall, one pump and one reservoir.
Will keep you posted.