Hydroponics Farming: Challenges and Possibilities

Abstract

Hydroponics is a innovative agricultural method of plant growing without soil using mineral nutrient solutions. It is also called “Controlled Environmental Agriculture” (CEA). Hydroponics, a water culture, is now used in both research and commercial fields. Some countries successfully implemented this technique for fast-growing horticulture crops such as strawberries, lettuce, tomatoes and carnations. In this technique water culture scientists discovered that as compared to soil-based growth, hydroponic plant system needs only a small number of inorganic elements in addition to water, oxygen, and sunlight to grow the plant Hydroponics farming can be a major advantage for Indian agriculture; it has the potential to produce crops in every season without soil. This system has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its numerous benefits, including increased water and nutrient efficiency, reduced land use, and increased crop yield and quality Such practices can help Indian farmers increase their crop productivity even in small fragmented lands. This review paper focuses on the challenges and possibilities of bringing soil-less farming in India to ensure its stability so that it may prove more beneficial for Indian farmers to grow crops which are 100% organic, toxic-free and of better quality.