
Brief descriptions are given of various other methods of hydroponics. The idea is to explain concisely how these function, so that the beginner, after having become familiar with soilless gardening by using the simple method described in the main parts of this book, may later go in for more elaborate techniques if he or she so desires. Not all of us want to indulge in what can be slightly ambitious projects, but there is no doubt that once you have been bitten by the hydroponic 'bug', you may well feel impelled to exploit the system to the full. There is something fascinating and very satisfying in utilising these resources of science and technology—today known as industrial biology—to produce better plants under closely controlled conditions. Even on a small scale in the home, backyard, or garden, you can employ quite elaborate methods of soilless cultivation to raise crops of striking quality by means of different apparatus and contrasting sets of equipment.
All methods of hydroponics conform to the same basic system. Soilless cultivation is a branch of horticulture, which draws upon agricultural chemistry, engineering, plant physiology and related sciences to achieve optimum results. For the sake of convenience, the different hydroponic methods or techniques may be classified under four main headings:
water or solution culture;
sand culture; aggregate culture; and
miscellaneous practices. Each method contains within its limits a number of sub-divisions, generally intended to suit certain areas or purposes. The choice of a particular method normally depends on factors such as climate, place, availability of requisites, and costs. There is no 'best* method of hydroponics as such; what matters is whether the technique selected meets the requirements of those using it and the environmental circumstances.
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