Both basic hydroponics and aeroponics are efficient ways to grow plants without touching any soil. Theyboth can be successful indoors or outdoors, using a nutrient-rich water solution for feeding and automation so that much of the work can be done without constant attention. Despite their many similarities, basic hydroponics and aeroponics also have some important differences. It is important for potential growers to understand these before deciding which method to use. 1. Basic hydroponics and aeroponics One reason these two growing methods have so much in common is that aeroponics is actually a type of hydroponics. The main difference is that hydroponic systems like indoor closet grow kits come in many forms. Plants can be suspended in water full-time, or they can be fed by continuous or even intermittent flow. Aeroponic plants are never put into water, not even for a minute. Instead, aeroponic plants get their nutrients from a mist sprayed onto their roots several times an hour. 2. Support for basic hydroponics and aeroponics Growers typically support hydroponic plants in mesh pots or trays filled with chemically inert media such as perlite, clay granules, rock wool, sand or gravel. Medium is similar to soil in that it holds plants in place as they grow, but unlike soil hydroponic medium, it does not provide any nutrients. Aeroponic systems typically use boards, foam boards, plastic clips, or other methods to suspend plants in space. No medium is used, the roots are fully exposed. 3. Feeding with basic hydroponics and aeroponics The hydroponic system comes in a variety of sizes and can be easily modified for almost any kind of plant. Large plants are usually housed in a container that is repeatedly watered and drained. Hydroponic plants may also be hanging from a nutrient reservoir, with their roots constantly submerged, or sitting in a trough with water periodically flowing over the roots. The roots of aeroponics are never overwhelmed. Instead, their exposed roots are sprayed with nutrient-rich water three to four times an hour, giving them enough water and nutrients to thrive. 4. Focus on basic hydroponics and aeroponics A major problem with hydroponic and aeroponic systems is any disruption to the flow of liquid nutrients. Some systems, especially deep-water automatic hydroponic systems, are less affected by power outages. When power is restored, they restart where they left off, but in systems using nutrient film technology, plants can be damaged if the pump is turned off for too long. Plants in aeroponics systems are extremely vulnerable to power outages because there is nothing to keep the roots from drying out. These plants die quickly without moisture, usually within an hour or two.
