Now it will be possible to grow fresh, green vegetables at home – that too without soil using hydroponics method. Vegetables like tomato, cucumber, spinach, coriander, chilli, mint, basil can be easily grown in the bedroom, balcony or terrace through this method developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Soil is not used
In this modern technique, soil is not used at all. Instead, seeds are put in coconut fibres, which are filled in a four-inch thick pipe. Small holes are made in these pipes and water is sprinkled lightly to give moisture to the fibres. This starts germination and plants start coming out.
Vegetables with shallow roots can be grown
In this method, only vegetables with shallow roots can be grown. Crops that grow deep like potatoes, carrots will not be possible in this.
Agricultural scientists claim that plants grown using hydroponics technology start bearing fruits in just 30 to 40 days. The department will soon organize workshops to give information about this method to farmers and common citizens.
Nutrition will reach through pipes only
Micronutrients are mixed with water in the pipes and delivered to the plants, which give them good growth. In this technique, there is no hassle of sowing, nor digging or taking care of the soil.
“Vegetable farming will be possible at home. People will be informed. You can contact the department for this,” according to Dr. Gagandeep Singh, Agriculture Officer of ICAR.
The hydroponics method is especially beneficial for those who live in urban areas and do not have space or time for farming. The sunlight coming from the windows will be sufficient for the plants.
Prakash Kumar Pandey