Top 10 Herbs to Grow in Hydroponics

Top 10 Herbs to Grow in Hydroponics

Introduction to top 10 herbs to grow in hydroponics: Hydroponics is a soil-less growing method used at commercial or residential levels. Plants grow through these systems, which provide water and nutrients through a medium other than soil. The most common growing media are:

• Perlite
• Stonewool/Rockwool
• Peat moss 
• Vermiculite
• Sand/gravel/sawdust
• Coconut coir
• Clay pellets

In Hydroponics, there are no barriers between the plant and its nutrients. It provides the roots with direct access to oxygen, water, and nutrients. The absence of soil also eliminates the need for harmful pesticides and chemicals. In addition, plant diseases and external elements are less likely to affect the plants.

Guide on top 10 herbs to grow in Hydroponics, top herbs to grow in Hydroponics and tips for growing herbs in Hydroponics

Types of hydroponic systems

Flow & Ebb Systems: Herb containers are kept separate from water tanks in Ebb & Flow systems. Instead, Herb containers will receive water and nutrients from a pump, which pulls water into them. Then, water will drain from the containers back into the main reservoir. pH is subsequently balanced, filtered, and nutrients are added.

Deep Water Systems: These systems are designed for beginners in Hydroponics. A small pump keeps this system’s water oxygenated and circulated, ideal for herb growth.

An Aeroponic System: Aeroponics systems provide maximum oxygen exposure to herb roots. In these systems, misting sprays ensure that roots don’t become waterlogged or oxygen-starved while providing them with the necessary water and nutrients.

Drip Systems: Drip systems will feed the herbs with water and nutrients in smaller amounts; a timer will keep the system on schedule and running regularly.

Top herbs to grow in Hydroponics

Basil: Fresh basil is an ideal herb for Hydroponics since it maintains a pleasing aroma and flavor when used. Dried basil loses both of these characteristics. As a result, Basil herbs are often grown in hydroponic systems in restaurants and greenhouses. The most common basil species include the following:

• Genovese Basil
• Thai Sweet Basil
• Sweet Basil
• Spicy Basil
• Lime Basil
• Purple Basil
• Lettuce Basil
• Lemon Basil

Basil can be planted by germinating seeds or planting cuttings, which form roots within a week. It’s best to keep the temperature of basil between 70 and 80 Fahrenheit since it is a warm-weather herb. When growing basil in Hydroponics, Rockwool blocks are the most popular medium. However, peat moss, coco coir, perlite, and vermiculite must be sterilized before use.

Tips for growing herbs in Hydroponics  

1. Hydroponically growing parsley from seed is very easy; soak some Rockwool cubes in water, put them in a tray with some water in it, plant two seeds per square inch, and push them into the Rockwool. Place the tray in a sandwich bag or similar container and wait for the plants to germinate.
2. Basil will keep for longer if you pick the top leaves, not the lower leaves; leave some buds under the point you cut, and it will branch off from there.
3. Onions survive changes in temperature, even sudden ones. As a result, they are ideal for outdoor gardening as well. It is best to keep the room between 65˚ and 80˚ F, or 18˚ and 27˚ C.
4. Mint prefers fresh air at night, but not cold; it thrives between 50 and 55oF, or ten and 13oC. The temperature ranges between 55˚ and 70˚ F, 13˚ and 21˚ C, during the daytime. If the temperature reaches 85° or 29° C, the plant will stop growing. It also likes humidity while rooting; keep it between 70 and 75% during this phase. It should be between 85 and 90% for mint plants grown from cuttings.
5. Watercress can be propagated hydroponically easily. For example, if you take a stem cutting, place the lower part of the cutting in the nutrient solution, and it will grow roots within days.
6. It grows outdoors in Oregano. Do you think it would take part shade or full sun? This plant prefers plenty of light. LED grow lights are set between 12 and 14 hours a day if you’re growing them indoors.
7. In hot climates, Lavender thrives at temperatures above 65° F or 18° C. Of course, you can grow it in very high temperatures as well, but the quality of the plants is reduced, and the number of essential oils becomes diluted.