This book presents a comprehensive overview of hydroponics as a sustainable, innovative, and future-oriented approach to modern agriculture. It explores the science and practice of soilless cultivation, offering readers a deep understanding of how plants can be grown efficiently without soil by relying on nutrient rich water solutions. Emphasizing the growing need for resource-efficient farming methods, it explains how hydroponics addresses challenges, such as limited arable land, water scarcity, and the need for high-yield, high-quality food production in both urban and rural settings. The content blends scientific concepts with practical applications, making it suitable for a diverse audience that includes students, researchers, agricultural professionals, entrepreneurs, and technology-driven farmers. It introduces various hydroponic systems and components, the role of nutrients, the importance of water quality, and environmental control parameters essential for plant health and productivity. In addition to explaining technical elements, the book highlights the broader benefits of hydroponics, such as reduced water usage, faster plant growth, space-saving cultivation methods, and year-round production. It also touches upon emerging integrations, such as aquaponics and vertical farming, which further enhance the scope and scalability of this method. The book serves as both a learning resource and a practical guide, helping readers understand the potential of hydroponics in transforming conventional agriculture. Whether for academic study, project implementation, or commercial venture, this book equips readers with the essential knowledge and tools to succeed in the dynamic field of hydroponic farming.
Dr. Dinkar J. Gaikwad is an Associate Professor and Head, Department of Biochemistry and Crop Physiology at the M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Paralakhemundi Campus, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha, India. Dr. Gaikwad is renowned for his pioneering work in soilless farming technology, particularly in hydroponics and aeroponics. With extensive experience in this field, he has seamlessly integrated academic research with practical applications to advance the development of innovative farming solutions. His research contributions are well-documented in numerous national and international publications, reflecting his expertise and impact on the field. Dr. Gaikwad also holds seven patents related to his work, underscoring his role as a leading innovator in Agricultural Science. Beyond his research, Dr. Gaikwad is committed to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices and advancing soilless farming technologies through both his teaching and applied work.
Dr. Santosh D T serves as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Agricultural Engineering at the School of Agriculture and Bio-Engineering, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha. He obtained his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Food Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur in December 2019 under the supervision of Prof. K. N. Tiwari. With over a decade of research experience as a Research Associate at the Precision Farming Development Centre, IIT, Kharagpur (2010–2020), supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, he has significantly contributed to the fields of micro-irrigation, greenhouse technology, protected cultivation techniques, and hydroponics. Dr. Santosh has authored and co-authored several research articles in reputed national and international journals. His academic career is further enriched by four years of industrial experience in marketing with organizations, such as TAFE Tractors, GEA Farm Technologies, and HDFC Bank, giving him a comprehensive understanding of both scientific and commercial aspects of Agricultural Engineering.
Dr. Sagar Maitra is a distinguished academician and researcher with a Doctorate in Agronomy, specializing in crop husbandry. With a strong foundation in field-based agricultural research, his areas of expertise include cropping systems, nutrient management of field crops, crop physiology, precision farming, and sustainable agriculture. He currently serves as a Professor and Dean at the M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, where he actively contributes to academic leadership, research development, and capacity building. Dr. Maitra brings a dynamic and versatile professional background, combining extensive experience in academia, development sectors, and agricultural extension. His career includes over 16 years as a Senior Producer in a National Electronic Media Network, where he was instrumental in disseminating scientific farming practices through electronic platforms. Additionally, he served for three years as Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) at a Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), further strengthening his connection with grassroots agricultural development and technology transfer. With over 190 research and review articles published in reputed national and international journals, Dr. Maitra has made significant scholarly contributions to Agricultural Sciences. He has also contributed more than 100 book chapters and has authored and edited nine books with leading publishers, establishing himself as a prolific writer and thought leader in his field.
1. Introduction to Hydroponics ...................................................................1
2. History of Hydroponics: From Ancient Techniques to Modern Innovations ..............................................................................11
3. Understanding Hydroponic Systems: Types and Components .............21
4. Benefits of Hydroponics: Advantages Over Soil-based Agriculture .....33
5. Essential Nutrients for Hydroponic Plants ............................................45
6. Hydroponic Growing Mediums: Comparisons and Applications .........61
7. Setting Up Hydroponic System: A Step-by-Step Guide .......................75
8. Managing pH and EC Levels in Hydroponics ......................................91
9. Water Quality and Hydroponics: Importance and Treatment ..............103
10. Hydroponic Crop Selection: Best Plants for Hydroponic Cultivation .......................................................................113
11. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT): Theory and Practice ........................127
12. Deep Water Culture (DWC) Systems: Basics and Operation .............141
13. Aeroponics: Hi-Tech Growing with Mist ............................................155
14. Aquaponics: Integrating Aquaculture and Hydroponics .....................165
15. Vertical Farming with Hydroponics: Maximizing Space and Yield ...................................................................................179
16. Commercial Hydroponics: Scale and Profitability ..............................189
