Hydroponics – A method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions in water, without soil

To remember the meaning of the term Hydroponics, use the following mnemonic:

The hydrant fed a pond that gave a tonic (hydroponics) to all the plants of minerals and nutrients in solution.

Note: the spelling of hydroponics - it's hydrO not hydrA. We are only using a hydrAnt to help you remember that hydroponics is to do with water!

Like aeroponics, hydroponics is a way of growing crops without soil. In this method, the plants are grown in nutrient-rich water.

Hydroponics allows growers to produce food anywhere in the world, at any time of the year, with higher yields and fewer resources. 

Most of the vegetables you find in a store have been shipped considerable distances and have probably lost nutritional value along the way. 

Using hydroponics, it's possible to create hyper-local food systems – container farms can be set up in local communities and regions. Hydroponic farms can even be sited directly behind restaurants that want ultra-fresh produce.

When people grow food hydroponically, they do not have to wait for favourable weather – growing can take place all year round.