Hydroponics: Green Growth without Soil
T. Jyothi *
Department of Applied Sciences (Agronomy), ANGRAU-College of Agricultural Engineering, Madakasira 515 301, India.
B. Sarojini Devi *
Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, ANGRAU-College of Agricultural Engineering, Madakasira 515 301, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hydroponics is an advanced soilless cultivation technique that supports plant growth through nutrient-enriched water under controlled environmental conditions. In the face of global challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, water scarcity, and rapid urbanization, conventional agriculture increasingly struggles to sustain food production. Hydroponic farming presents a viable alternative by improving water-use efficiency, reducing land dependency, limiting pest and disease incidence, and enabling year-round crop production. This review provides a comprehensive overview of hydroponics, covering its definition, historical development, necessity, working principles, system classification, growing media, and essential operational requirements, including pH, electrical conductivity, nutrient management, and light regulation. Recent technological advancements and emerging applications in urban and controlled environment agriculture are also briefly highlighted. The advantages and limitations of hydroponic systems are discussed to evaluate their role in sustainable agriculture. Overall, hydroponics emerges as a promising technology for enhancing future food security, particularly in resource-limited and urban regions.
Keywords: Controlled environment agriculture, hydroponics, nutrient solution, soilless culture, sustainable agriculture and urban farming