Hydroponic Cultivation

Hydroponically grown plants have the same general requirements for good growth as field-grown plants. However the major difference is the method by which the plants are supported and the inorganic elements necessary for growth and development are supplied. Hydroponic systems will not compensate for poor growing conditions such as improper temperature, inadequate light, or pest problems. The following basic requirements must be maintained at adequate levels for optimal growth.

» Nutrient Solution
» Temperature
» Fresh air
» Shelter and support
» Water
» Mineral Nutrients
» Light
» Growing Media

Media used in Hydroponic cultivation: The primary aim of any growing medium in soilless gardening system is to anchor the roots and hold moisture and nutrients for the plant. The medium itself is inert and contains no plant nutrients so will not decompose, nor harbour any soil borne pests or diseases. The plant's complete nutritional needs are met by the special nutrient mixes that you add to the individual system.
A range of growing media can be used that have been selected due to their high quality and superior capacity for holding nutrient solutions, while still retaining a good balance of oxygen and moisture are.

• Hydroton : Hydroton is a special kiln fired clay based aggregate that is super-heated and formed into small 'marbles' usually between 4mm to 16mm in diameter. The inner core structure is porous and will absorb and release nutrient and water to the plants as required. Hydroton is not compact and thus ensures excellent aeration for the root zone.
• Cocopeat : This is also known as coir or coco, and is the leftover material after the fibers have been removed from the outermost shell (bolster) of the coconut. Coir is a 100% natural grow and flowering medium.
• Rockwool : Rockwool is made from molten rock, basalt or 'slag' that is spun into bundles of single filament fibres, and bonded into a medium capable of capillary action, and are in effect protected from most common microbiological degradation. It is an inert substrate suitable for both run to waste and recirculating system.
• Perlite : Perlite is a volcanic rock that has been superheated into very lightweight expanded glass pebbles.
• Vermiculite : Vermiculite is light and has very high capacity of water retention. It is a natural mineral which expands with the application of heat and is formed by hydration of certain basaltic minerals.

At PGS we undertake complete turnkey projects for soilless cultivation with either Nutrient Film Technique or Drip Irrigation using cocopeat. We also offer cultivation support and nutrient management.

Nutrient Film Technique : The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is one of the prevalent hydroponic systems which allow a shallow stream of water, containing all the dissolved nutrients required to be circulated at the roots with the help of channels.
Drip Irrigation System : PGS can assist you in setting up your Drip Irrigation system with cocopeat as a growing medium. Drip Irrigation system, one of the widely used hydroponic systems provides adequate water supply to your hydroponic plants by proper sprinkling, draining and aerating to ensure that your plants are healthy.