Do you think hydroponics is easy?

Hydroponics, once considered a simple solution for growing plants without soil, has recently come under scrutiny by experts who warn that its success depends heavily on the grower's knowledge and attention to detail. Prof. dr. Ana Slatnar from the Department of Agronomy at the Biotechnical Faculty and Tjaša Jarc, co-founder of the plant store Džungla, have both highlighted that hydroponics requires careful monitoring of environmental factors and plant needs, rather than being a passive system. Their warnings follow reports of plants failing rapidly due to improper management of conditions such as light, temperature, oxygen levels, pH balance, and nutrient concentration. Hydroponics involves cultivating plants in water or an inert substrate instead of soil, with all necessary nutrients delivered through a nutrient solution. This method gained popularity due to its efficiency in producing higher yields per square meter, reduced water usage, and the ability to cultivate crops year-round in controlled environments like greenhouses or enclosed spaces. During the pandemic, many individuals turned to indoor plants and sought easier maintenance methods, leading to a surge in demand for semi-hydroponic systems featuring reservoirs that allow better control over watering. However, according to Dr. Ana Slatnar, the biggest misconception is that a hydroponic system operates independently. In reality, growers must constantly monitor several variables. If any of these factors deviate from optimal levels, plants can deteriorate quickly. Over-fertilization is another common mistake, which can damage roots and hinder plant growth. Additionally, while protected environments like greenhouses maintain ideal temperatures, they can also create favorable conditions for pests, which spread rapidly in such settings. For beginners, hydroponics can be suitable, but only if they are prepared to observe their plants closely and understand their specific requirements. It is crucial to use fertilizers designed for hydroponic systems, regularly clean the system, and ensure the quality of the water used. For initial attempts with leafy greens, fast-growing varieties such as lettuce, arugula, spinach, and herbs are recommended. Among houseplants, species like monsteras, philodendrons, syngoniums, spatiphyllums, and aglaonemas thrive well in hydroponic setups, whereas cacti and succulents, adapted to dry environments, are less suited for this method. The quality of hydroponically grown vegetables has also been a topic of discussion. Dr. Ana Slatnar emphasizes that the belief that hydroponically grown produce tastes worse is largely a myth. Taste is significantly influenced by the maturity level of the fruit at harvest time rather than the cultivation method itself. A locally grown tomato that ripens fully on the plant will generally taste better than one harvested too early for long-distance transportation, regardless of whether it was grown in soil or hydroponically. Despite its numerous advantages, hydroponics cannot entirely replace traditional gardening. According to the experts, working with soil holds significant social, therapeutic, and educational value, connecting people with nature and teaching them how food is produced. Hydroponics should therefore be viewed as a complement to conventional gardening, particularly useful in areas lacking space or water resources. Both experts agree that hydroponics is not a system for those seeking effortless plant cultivation. It is best suited for curious and meticulous individuals who enjoy exploring and are willing to dedicate time to their plants. Whether plants grow in soil or water, the key remains the grower’s commitment to understanding and meeting their needs.