Can You Use White Styrofoam in Hydroponic Gardens?

Hydroponic Garden Setup

• Hydroponic gardens consist of contained growing situations with individual pods, tubing, water tray and control panel. These systems depend on loose, organic or inorganic nonsoil mediums, which eliminate dirt, weeds and pests.

Growing Foundations

• Certain growing foundations work better in hydroponic gardens than others. The Growing Edge recommends coconut fiber, expandable clay, perlite, rockwool, sand, vermiculite, composted bark, gravel, peat moss and pumice. Gardeners who use organic matter like peat moss must replace it over time.

Functions

• According to The Growing Edge, hydroponic growing foundations must support the plant physically, absorb and retain moisture, and drain quickly, without breaking down. They must also allow air movement and room for root growth. White Styrofoam does not drain, absorb moisture, allow for air circulation or allow for root growth, and is therefore inappropriate.

Other Maintenance

• Plants in hydroponic gardens need more than a growing foundation to survive. Put the garden in a spot that satisfies the plants' light and temperature requirements, and maintain this level of light through the growing season. Mix hydroponic nutrients into the water source, per manufacturer directions, to give the plants vitamins and minerals. Prune hydroponic plants as you would outdoor plants and harvest fruits and vegetables in a timely manner.