What Is the Difference Between Soil Nutrients & Hydro Nutrients?

Soilless Systems

• Hydroponic gardening uses horizontal supports to keep plants above their submerged roots. Nutrient film growing involves a system of sloped troughs or tubes to contain plants, with a constantly flowing film of nutrient solution bathing the plant roots. Aeroponic growing suspends plant roots in a nutrient mist. Plants are inserted in holes in Styrofoam boards in an "A" frame, while a vaporizer delivers a constant mist of recyclable nutrient solution to the roots. The aeration system delivers oxygen bubbles to plant roots immersed in a nutrient solution. Aggregate systems use perlite, sand, vermiculite, gravel or another inert medium to support plant roots.

Hydroponic Nutrients

• A total of 13 primary, secondary and trace (or micro) nutrients are required for plant health. In soilless gardening, hydroponic fertilizer solutions supply all the required nutrients. The solution is changed regularly to ensure a steady supply to the roots. Commercial suppliers provide a variety of products formulated for hydroponic and soilless growing. Dilution rates vary; follow package instructions. The solution is kept at a pH level of 5 to 6. Fish aquarium suppliers sell water testing kits and modifiers. Restore nutrient balance by adding fresh water to solutions concentrated through evaporation. Nutrient levels require adjustments as plants grow.

Soil Nutrients

• Soil-grown plants receive many nutrients from a well-fed soil. Healthy soil is fed and maintained with top dressings of organic composts, mulch and manure regularly applied in addition to plant fertilizer. Fertilizer labels in the US are nationally standardized, with three numbers displayed prominently, indicating the formula's amounts of the primary nutrients in percentages. A bag labeled 10-10-10 contains 10 percent each of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium. Typical formulas for garden plants are designed to promote bloom, foliage or fruit, and contain varying amounts of each primary nutrient. Local soil conditions influence fertilizer choices.

Hydroponic Advantages

• Soilless growing provides a stress-free, nutrient-steady environment for plants when sufficient air and light are provided in addition to water and nutrients. A sterile growing medium limits or eliminates weeds and soil-borne diseases and pests. Hydroponic systems are capable of producing healthier, earlier and more abundant yields when properly assembled and maintained. Small indoor or outdoor areas are suitable for soilless growing, putting successful gardening within reach of apartment dwellers. Indoor options extend the growing season. Automated systems keep the garden healthy and productive even for the absent gardener.