Madhumitah Ravi

I17014008

Assignment 1

Hydroponics is a technique which uses a nutrient-rich water solution to produce

plants without using soil. This may be accomplished utilising a number of devices,
including channels, vertical towers, and floating rafts. Typically, the plants are kept in
nets or containers suspended in nutrient solutions, letting the roots to take in the
required nutrients directly.

Comparing hydroponics to conventional soil-based growth techniques, there are

various benefits. It makes it possible to precisely manage factors that affect the
growing environment, such as temperature, humidity, and nutrient concentrations,
which can lead to quicker development, bigger yields, and better-quality product. In
addition, it uses less water and fertilizer throughout the growth process, which makes
it more sustainable by lowering the danger of pests and illnesses. Hydroponics can be
used to grow a wide range of plants, from leafy greens and herbs to fruiting
vegetables and even flowers. Overall, hydroponics is a highly efficient and
sustainable method of growing plants that is gaining popularity in both commercial
and home settings, which is precisely why it is chosen to be taught to kids in
kindergarten.

For the planning process, the team cultivated seedlings about two weeks before the
trip. Hydroponics needs sprouted plantlets. For the system, vertical towers with water
channels is chosen as they are easier to take care of and wont take up so much space
in the kindergarten area. By following the instruction provided by the manufacturer,
the team assembled the tower to check the usability and scout for damages before the
trip. The team kept the assembled parts as it is and removed the vertical pipes for easy
transportation.

On the day of the trip, the full installation, including setting up the nutrient solution,
water pump, and any necessary tubing or fittings is done in the school. Then the
plantlets were installed where the roots have access to the nutrient filled water
channels and shoot access to light. They were placed in a small net pots to support
their growth. Then the kids in the school are taught the basic needs of the hydroponics
and methods to watch out for. They were also taught how to regularly monitor the pH,
nutrient levels, and temperature of the nutrient solution, and adjust as needed. Also,
check for pests and diseases and maintain appropriate lighting, ventilation, and water
levels.

At the end, the kids were exposed on the methods of harvesting the grown plant and
the advantages of doing so in self sustainable way of producing and harvesting own
crops to the environment and today's economy.