This article focuses on hydroponic farming in Kenya. Hydroponic farming is a farming system that involves growing plants without the use of soil. Crops are grown using water with a solution of nutrients.
It is still a new concept in Kenya that farmers are slowly embracing even though it has been in existence for years, especially in other parts of the world.
Hydroponics is a neat way of farming that avoids soil-borne diseases and speeds up growth, about 25% faster growth compared to normal soil growth. For instance, in normal soil growth, a plant can take 21 days to grow while under hydroponics it can take only six days.
Types of Hydroponic Systems
- Deep water culture.
- Wick systems.
- Nutrient film technique.
- Aeroponics.
- Ebb and flow.
- Drip system.
Best Plants for Hydroponic Farming
Hydroponic farming can be practiced to grow any type of crop. However, the following plants perform exceptionally well under hydroponics.
- Lettuce.
- Fodder.
- Kale.
- Onions.
- Spinach.
- Coriander.
- Basil.
- Cucumber.
- Cilantro.
Equipment Required for Hydroponic Farming
The following are some of the necessary equipment required to practice hydroponic farming.
- Water tanks.
- Controls for the hydroponic system.
- Water pumps and other necessary pumps that may be advised by hydroponic experts.
- Lighting equipment.
Advantages of Hydroponic Farming
- Hydroponic farming saves space, time and resources such as water. The system uses less water compared to other farming systems.
- It is cost-effective and requires low amount of labour to practice.
- A farmer has complete control of the content of nutrients.
- Plants grow faster, stronger and healthier.
- Hydroponic farming ensures a constant supply of food as any crop can be grown and at any time regardless of the season.
- High nutritional value compared to other farming methods or systems.
- Easy management of pests and diseases as it is a farming system with a raised nature of plantation. The system itself eliminates any possible soil-borne diseases.
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