Hydroponic crops

Keys to a more sustainable future

Hydroponics, an agricultural method characterized by a more efficient use of resources, is gaining popularity in both fine dining and domestic environments. Its growth not only reflects a trend, but signals a practical and efficient response to today's agricultural challenges, providing viable and sustainable solutions for food production.

What are hydroponic crops?

Hydroponics is a method of plant cultivation that completely omits soil as a support system for the roots.

Given the context of soil scarcity and challenges caused by climate change, hydroponic crops present themselves as a practical and sustainable solution for today's agriculture.

Instead of relying on soil, essential nutrients are supplied directly to the roots of the plants, through a water-based solution containing all the minerals necessary for their growth.

This technique not only offers precise control over growing conditions, but also stands out as a more sustainable practice compared to traditional agriculture by eliminating the need for agricultural soil.

Hydroponics characteristics

Hydroponic systems are distinguished by a number of key characteristics:

Hydroponic systems are distinguished by a number of key characteristics:

Soilless system

Completely eliminates soil, replacing it with a nutrient-rich water-based solution.

Precise control of nutrients

A mixture with adequate concentrations of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, is supplied in hydroponic cultivation.

Controlled environment

A hydroponic garden incorporates systems to regulate environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity, creating an optimal environment for plant growth.

Specific infrastructure

The implementation of hydroponics often requires specific infrastructures, such as water recirculation systems, pumps, pH and conductivity meters, controlled lighting, among others.

Continuous monitoring

It is essential to maintain constant surveillance to ensure that nutrient levels, pH, and other factors remain within optimal ranges.

Types of hydroponic systems

Hydroponic systems are diversified into several types, each designed for a specific purpose, making them more suitable choices for specific types of crops. Some of the most common options include:

Ebb & Flow Hydroponic System (Flood and Drain): the plants are placed in trays or containers that are periodically flooded with the nutrient solution, which is then drained back into the reservoir. This cycle, repeated several times a day, provides the roots with alternating periods of nutrients and oxygen. The versatility of this system facilitates the use of various substrates, allowing the cultivation of diverse plant species.
Aeroponics cultivation system: suspension of roots in the air, regularly sprayed with the nutrient solution in a dark environment. Although it is a highly efficient system, interruption of misting cycles can lead to rapid root desiccation. Ideal for fast-growing plants.

Root-floating hydroponic system: plants are placed on a sheet that floats on the nutrient solution, submerging the roots. An air pump is used to oxygenate the roots, making it ideal for growing leafy greens such as lettuce.

Droplet cultivation system: a timer regulates a pump that allows the nutrient solution to drip onto the plant base. The versatility of this system makes it suitable for a wide range of crops, from vegetables to fruits.

Wick system: the plants receive the nutrient solution through wicks, thus eliminating the use of pumps. Due to its simplicity, this system stands out as the ideal option for hydroponics at home, being adaptable to different substrates, although it is mainly recommended for plants with low water requirements.

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): a thin film of nutrient solution flows continuously along a slope, exposing plant roots to the air. Ideal for herbs, lettuce, strawberries, and other green leafy plants.

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Advantages of hydroponic crops

Hydroponic crops offer several advantages:

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Efficient use of water

Hydroponics uses less water compared to traditional agriculture, as water is recirculated in many systems, reducing waste.

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Control of nutrients

Farmers have precise control over the composition and concentration of the nutrients the plants receive, allowing for optimal and customized nutrition.

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Reduced risk of pests

The absence of soil significantly reduces the risk of soil-borne pests and diseases, reducing the need for pesticides and herbicides.

Adaptability to a variety of environments

From urban environments to at-home hydroponics, this method can be implemented in areas with soils unsuitable for conventional agriculture.

Increased control of the environment

Hydroponic systems allow precise control of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and lighting, favoring optimal plant growth.

Accelerated growth

Hydroponics allows for faster growth compared to traditional cultivation methods thanks to the controlled supply of nutrients.

Less dependence on the weather

By having control of the environment, hydroponic crops are less dependent on external climatic conditions, reducing the risks associated with adverse weather events.

Year-round harvests

Hydroponics allows for continuous cultivation, regardless of the season, providing a constant supply of fresh produce.

Reduced use of space

Hydroponic systems, such as vertical or layered systems, make efficient use of space, allowing cultivation in small areas.

Repsol and hydroponics

At Repsol we lead an enriching volunteer initiative focused on the creation of hydroponic crops, offering people the opportunity to actively participate in the construction of their own systems. We invite you to join this commitment to sustainability in your home by choosing hydroponic crops.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of this practice and its contribution to food science, we recommend this episode of Somos Futuro, a web series produced by Repsol and Grupo Prisa.