Introduction to Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, where nutrients are delivered directly to the plant roots through water. In class 11, students can study this innovative approach to agriculture that is gaining popularity worldwide.
Benefits of Hydroponics
- Water Efficiency: Hydroponics uses up to 90% less water than traditional soil farming.
- Space Saving: This method allows for vertical farming, maximizing space usage.
- Higher Yields: Plants grown hydroponically tend to grow faster and produce more fruits and vegetables.
Case Studies
One example of successful hydroponic farming is the Plenty Farm in San Francisco, which produces 500 times more crops per square foot than traditional farms. Another case study is the Floating Farm in Rotterdam, where vegetables are grown on a floating platform using hydroponics.
Statistics on Hydroponics
- According to a report by Grand View Research, the global hydroponics market size was estimated at $1.21 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $3.60 billion by 2028.
- The use of hydroponics can lead to a 30-50% reduction in crop cycle time compared to traditional farming methods.
