Drip Vs. Bubble Hydroponics

Hydroponic systems can be used to easily grow fruits and vegetables.

Hydroponic systems are a way to grow plants without using soil. The plants are placed in a pot and are fed nutrient-enhanced water. The two main types of hydroponics use either a drip method or a bubble system.

Benefits

Growing plants without soil means that fresh herbs and vegetables can be grown anywhere. Apartment-dwellers can grow plants in their kitchens or on their balconies or roofs. People who live in cold climates can grow tomatoes in their basements year round and never have to worry about buying them at high out-of-season prices. The systems are easy to set up, and don't require much maintenance, making them ideal for busy people.

Drip Hydroponics

Drip hydroponics is a popular method. The system is hooked up to a timer, which dispenses the nutrients according to a specific schedule. The nutrients are dripped onto the roots of the plant. There are two types of drip hydroponics: one recovers and recycles the excess nutrient-rich water; the other leaves the extra in a reservoir.

Bubble Hydroponics

With bubble hydroponics, the plants are in a pot. Under the plants are a layer of clay pebbles, a reservoir of nutrient-enhanced water and an air stone, in that order. The air stone creates bubbles, which push up through the layer of pebbles and into the roots of the plant. This system allows for greater root growth and larger plants.

References

• Simple Hydroponics and Organics: Basic hydroponics systems and how they work
• Basement Lighting Hydroponics: Bubble pit system
• Hydroponics: Hydroponic gardening for beginners