Hydroponic Gardens & Aquaponics |
Hydroponics
The word “hydroponics” comes from the Greek words for
“water” and “labor,” and refers to the technique of growing plants without
soil. To some, the concept might sound counterintuitive, but hydroponics is a
unique, sustainable way to grow delicious and healthy crops.
When plants are grown hydroponically, their roots are dipped directly into nutrient-rich solutions. Since they are connected directly to the necessary nutrients, hydroponically-grown plants have smaller root systems. This saves energy and allows it to be diverted to leaf and stegrowth. The nutrient-rich solutions also help plants grow much faster than they would if they were grown traditionally, and hydroponics often results in greater crop yields than conventional methods. Additionally, since hydroponic methods do not rely on soil, it also decreases the risk of pests and soilborne diseases, leading to healthy crops that you’ll feel good about growing and eating.
Hydroponics allow for year-round growth of crops like lettuce, herbs, tomatoes, and strawberries, and work in limited spaces, like a windowsill or rooftop garden. With high yields, healthy methods, and sustainable systems that require minimal space, hydroponics is an ideal fit with Thrive Living Communities. Picnics with neighbors or community dinners will feel even better knowing that your food is fresh, healthy, and grown right in your neighborhood!
Aquaponics
How do you take your hydroponic systems to the next level? Just add fish! Aquaponics is another sustainable agriculture method that involves raising fish in tanks, then using the nutrient-rich water as a natural fertilizer for growing healthy, chemical-free crops. In turn, the plants purify the water for the fish. Aquaponics is a wholly natural process, and mimics what happens naturally in lakes, ponds, and other waterways.
Aquaponics has benefits for the environment, your health, and your community. It uses significantly less water than traditional farming techniques, and since it relies on recirculation that benefits both the fish and the plants, ensures that nothing goes to waste. Like hydroponics, aquaponics methods also require limited space, making it easy to raise your own food right in your own Thrive Living Community.
Aquaponics also require nothing but food for the fish, and the all-natural system means that your fish will be free of hormones and antibiotics. Similarly, the recirculated water from their tanks provides your plants with water that is not tainted by pesticides, herbicides, or other dangerous chemicals. By tying together both fish and crops, aquaponics provides your community with a continuous, fast-growing source of protein and vegetables, and will allow your community to cultivate its own small, thriving ecosystem.Subscribe To Our Podcast On Your Favorite Podcast App:
.png){kind=small}
| Contact UsQuestions or Feedback is welcome! Address comments to: Mark Stein, Executive Director support@ThriveColivingCommunities.org |
