Hydroponics, aquaponics or VF – which works best for you?

Added on 03 October 2023

Breaking down different technologies in food production

As climate records continue to topple, the need to find sustainable and planet-friendly agricultural systems becomes ever more pressing. Hydroponics, aquaponics, and vertical farming tick both boxes, as well as offering faster growth rates and greater yields – they’re also becoming increasingly more common in food production.

When considering which system to use, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each. Consider factors such as energy costs and desired yield, as well as resource (both human and natural). We’ve weighed up their key components, as well as how they weigh up against one another and fit into 21^st century agriculture.

What is hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing crops without soil. Instead, the system uses a nutrient-rich solution in place of soil to support plant growth.

Plants are either stood in some form of substrate within trays, which are periodically flooded with a nutrient solution. Otherwise, they are placed in a sloped gutter where a nutrient solution is passed over the roots. This method can produce a diverse range of high quality flowers, herbs and vegetables fast – and at a high yield.