Abstract

Hydroponics is an innovative agricultural method that offers a sustainable and efficient solution
to traditional soil-based farming. This report provides a comprehensive overview of
hydroponics, including its principles, advantages, components, techniques, and applications. It
highlights the environmental benefits, higher crop yields, water and nutrient efficiency, and
year-round cultivation opportunities offered by hydroponic systems. Additionally, the report
explores various hydroponic techniques such as nutrient film technique (NFT), deep water
culture (DWC), and vertical farming, providing insights into their setups and operational
considerations. The report concludes with a discussion on the challenges and future prospects of
hydroponics, emphasizing its potential to address food security and environmental
sustainability concerns.

Keywords: Hydroponics, Nutrient Film Technology, Nutrient Solution, pH, Electrical

conductivity,

INTRODUCTION
Agriculture is the art and science of cultivating the land, raising crops, and raising animals. This
includes the preparation of plant and animal products for human consumption and their
distribution in the market. Agriculture provides food and textiles worldwide. Cotton, wool and
leather are all agricultural products. Farming also provides wood for construction and
papermaking. These crops, along with the farming methods used, will vary from place to place
around the world.
Agricultural growth is one of the most powerful tools to eradicate extreme poverty, and
agricultural growth is two to four times the income growth rate. There are many issues, for
example the topsoil is the first 4 to 8 inches of soil that contains most of the organic matter,
roots and microbial and animal life. The terrain in cities and regions has changed dramatically.
Topsoil is usually removed during construction, the soil layer is rotated or mixed, and weak soil
is often added. Climate change threatens global agriculture Diseases pose a threat to agriculture
because crops are grown in areas that are limited and vulnerable to animals and insects.
Hydroponics is a hydroponic cultivation technique (Smith et al.) that is gaining great interest as
a new approach to modern agriculture. No-irrigation farming techniques represented by
hydroponics have many advantages such as efficient use of resources, higher yields and reduced
environmental impact (Brown & Johnson ., 2020). This technology has emerged as a solution to
solve problems in traditional agriculture. By eliminating dependence on traditional soil systems,
hydroponics has the opportunity to overcome limitations such as barren land, water scarcity,
and soil degradation (Nelson et al et al, 2019). By controlling factors such as water, nutrients,
pH and light, hydroponic systems provide a controlled environment that optimizes plant growth
and improves crop quality. The efficient use of resources such as water and fertilizer, and the
reduction of waste and environmental pollution make hydroponics environmentally friendly.

Additionally, the ability to grow crops year-round in a controlled, weatherproof environment

can improve food security by increasing food availability, particularly in areas affected by
seasonal changes or extreme weather conditions. ). The absence of weeds and pests often
associated with farmland reduces dependence on pesticides and promotes safe and healthy
crops. Measuring the economic value of hydroponics is important because it involves an initial
investment in infrastructure, equipment and skills (Miller & Thomson, 2016).

Analyzing profitability and potential return on investment is essential for evaluating

hydroponic potential at different scales. Understanding hydroponic-related issues such as
proper nutrient management, disease prevention and sustainability is critical to success and
sustainable agriculture. The present study was conducted To understand and also to adopt the
technique of hydroponic with regard to growing of plants, To determine the effects with regard
to plant growth when one or more elements are missing in the solutions and To identify the
advantages of hydroponics over soil-based agriculture by adopting nutrient film technology.

Methodology:
The method we adopted is nutrient film technique, firstly we have to locate the hydroponic
system in an enclosed structure, such as a greenhouse or the basement of your house, or on an
outdoor patio or deck. During cold temperatures, bring the hydroponic system indoor. If placing
the system in an interior room of your house, add grow lights to provide supplemental lighting
to plan.

The study was carried out in a greenhouse (East-West orientation) from November 2022 to
January 2023(winter) at the Water Technology department , belonging to VC farm Mandya. The
greenhouse was 7 m wide and 32 m long, with ceiling height of 4 m, protected on the sides by
shade screen (50% luminosity)
Seed germination Process:

Seeds needs to be planted in a tray having number of circular holes.Each hole is to be filled
with the coconut coir. Coco coir growing medium comes from the same processes as coco peat,
but it isn’t ground into fine powder. It differs because it is the hair that is found on coconut
husks.2 to 3 seeds are to planted in each hole, and the tray has to be kept in dark place for three
days followed by light watering for 15 days.Seeds of Broccoli, Bok choy and lettuce were kept
to germinate on November 3 2022

Growth Process:

Based on our requirements PVC pipes(4.5 ft ) needs to be cut and arranged in the grid format.
The next step is to drill holes in the PVC pipes to make holders for the net pots(3.5 inches)Net
pots are used to hold the samplings until the growth period of plants. The sponges need to be
cut into the size of net pots, then the seedlings were inserted into sponges .A light expanded
clay pellets are filled int the remaining portion of net pots for mechanical support. These net
pots are placed in PVC pipes. These pipes are connected to water reservoir or tank .Place the
water pump in the base of the reservoir or tank. Fill it with the nutrient rich solution.
Submersible tank pumps are seated in the bottom of tank and designated to pump water
upwards to the surface. In this method, the pump when turned on will flood the PVC pipes with
nutrient rich water and facilitates plant growth. Once turned off, the water will flow back into
the tank. Plants were shifted to setup after 15 days(November 18 2022)These whole setup was
kept in Green shed to maintain Temperature and humidity

Preparation of Nutrient Solution:

Plants require 17 essential elements to grow and reproduce.The first three are Hydrogen,
Oxygen and carbon.Other 14 are:

Macro-Elements: Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulphur.

Micro-Elements: Iron, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, Boron, Chlorine, Molybdenum, Nickel.

Table1 Standardization of nutrient solutions with different salinity levels

Salts Used (mg per liter) Salinity Levels

 S1 S2
Monoammonium phosphate 6.3 8.6
Potassium nitrate 33 45.0
Calcium nitrate 35.7 48.0
Magnesium sulphate 13.2 18.0
Ferrous sulphate.7H20 11.0 15.0
Copper sulphate. 5H20 1.1 1.5
Manganous sulphate. 2H20 3.55 4.55
Zinc sulphate. 7H20 4.7 6.5
Boric acid 0.55 0.7
Ammonium molybdate 0.27 0.37
pH 7.03 7.13
EC (dsm-1) 1.1+_0.07 1.5+_0.11

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Analysis of PH and EC Variations

pH Variation

pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH range of 6.9-5.3 suggests some

fluctuation in the acidity level of your nutrient solution. Ideally, in hydroponics, a stable pH
range of 5.5-6.5 is desired for most plants. Fluctuations outside this range can affect nutrient
availability and uptake by plants, potentially impacting their growth and overall health.

EC Variation

EC (Electrical Conductivity) is a measure of the nutrient concentration in the nutrient solution.

An EC range of 1.21-0.53 indicates fluctuations in the nutrient levels of your solution. Higher
EC values suggest a higher nutrient concentration, while lower EC values indicate a lower
nutrient concentration. Fluctuations in EC levels can affect plant nutrient uptake and potentially
lead to nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.

These variations could be caused by several factors, including:

- Inconsistent nutrient solution mixing

- Inaccurate pH and EC meter readings
- Inadequate nutrient solution preparation or dilution
 - Variations in the water source quality or composition
- Fluctuations in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity

Table 2 Monitoring of Salinity levels in the Hydroponic System From day one to day 9

Day pH EC
Day 1 6.91 1.21
Day 2 6.91 1.16
Day 3 5.75 1.14
Day 4 5.75 1.16
Day 5 5.75 1.17
Day 6 5.65 1.01
Day 7 5.65 0.98
Day 8 5.32 0.685
Day 9 5.32 0.525
The pH and EC variations you observed during the first 9 days of hydroponic system indicate
fluctuations in the acidity/alkalinity and nutrient concentration of your nutrient solution,
respectively.

Table 3 Salinity levels from Day 10 to Day 18

Day pH EC
Day 10 7.12 1.5
Day 11 7.12 1.35
Day 12 5.82 1.12
Day 13 5.82 1.08
Day 14 5.42 0.721
Day 15 5.42 0.580
Day16 5.42 0.525
Day 17 5.42 0.521
Day 18 5.42 0.329

Table 4 Salinity levels from Day 19 to Day 27

 Day pH EC
Day 19 7.06 1.5
Day 20 6.82 1.31
Day 21 6.82 1.21
Day 22 6.82 1.15
Day 23 5.85 1.12
Day 24 5.85 0.912
Day 25 5.65 0.829
Day 26 5.65 0.321
Day 27 5.65 0.241

Table 5.4 Salinity levels from Day 28 to Day 36

Day pH EC
Day 28 7.1 1.5
Day 29 5.92 1.12
Day 30 5.92 1.12
Day 31 5.52 1.01
Day 32 5.52 0.921
Day 33 6.12 0.725
Day 34 6.12 0.725
Day 35 5.62 0.512
Day 36 5.62 0.512

Nutrient solutions were added every nine days when EC level reached 0.3 or less, it suggests
that the nutrient concentration in the solution is being depleted by the plants within that time
period.

Nutrient Uptake: The plants are actively taking up nutrients from the solution, causing a
decrease in the EC level. This is a positive sign, as it indicates that the plants are growing and
utilizing the available nutrients.

Nutrient Balance: The nutrient solution is being consumed by the plants at a rate that lowers the
EC level below 0.3 within nine days. This suggests that the nutrient concentration in the
solution is appropriate for supporting plant growth without causing nutrient excess.
Regular Nutrient Addition: Adding nutrient solutions every nine days helps ensure a continuous
supply of nutrients to the plants. By monitoring the EC level and replenishing the solution when
it drops below 0.3,

To enhance hydroponic system regarding nutrient management, the following steps were
considered:

Monitor EC Levels: Regularly measure the EC level of the nutrient solution using a reliable
EC meter. This will help you determine when the nutrient concentration drops below 0.3 and
requires replenishment.

Adjust Nutrient Dosage: Based on the rate at which the EC level decreases, we may need to
adjust the nutrient dosage when preparing the solution. This will help maintain a more
consistent EC level and ensure an adequate nutrient supply for the plants.

Nutrient Solution Mixing: Thoroughly mix the nutrient solution to ensure uniform distribution
of nutrients. This will help prevent nutrient stratification and ensure that the plants have equal
access to essential elements.

Plant Observation: Continuously monitor the health and growth of the plants. Look for any
signs of nutrient deficiencies or imbalances, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. Adjust
the nutrient solution composition if necessary to address any issues.

By carefully monitoring the EC level and adjusting the nutrient solution accordingly, we can
optimize nutrient availability and support healthy plant growth. Remember to consider other
factors such as pH, water quality, and environmental conditions to maintain a well-balanced
hydroponic system.

Effect of salinity levels and rooting substrates on shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight
of crops harvest under hydroponic system

Shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight are measurements used to assess the biomass or
growth of the above-ground parts (shoots) of a plant.

Shoot Fresh Weight

Shoot fresh weight refers to the weight of the plant's above-ground parts, including stems,
leaves, and sometimes flowers or fruits, immediately after they are harvested. It represents the
total weight of the plant material without any drying or dehydration. Shoot fresh weight is a
good indicator of the overall size and growth rate of the plant.

Shoot Dry Weight

Shoot dry weight refers to the weight of the plant's above-ground parts after they have been
dried to remove all moisture. This is typically achieved by placing the harvested shoots in an
oven at a specific temperature for a defined period until they reach a constant weight. Shoot dry
weight represents the plant's biomass without the influence of water content. It provides a more
accurate measure of the plant's actual mass since water content can vary and affect fresh weight
measurements.

By comparing shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight, we can gain insights into the water
content and proportion of water in the plant tissue. The difference between shoot fresh weight
and shoot dry weight gives an estimate of the amount of water present in the plant material.
This information is valuable for various purposes, including determining the water use
efficiency of a plant, assessing plant productivity, or evaluating the effects of different
treatments or environmental conditions on plant growth.

Both shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight are important parameters in plant research,
especially in areas such as agriculture, horticulture, and plant physiology. They provide
quantitative data on the growth and biomass accumulation of plants, enabling researchers to
make comparisons, draw conclusions, and make informed decisions regarding plant health,
nutrient uptake, growth responses, and overall plant performance.

Shoot fresh weight(g/plant) Shoot dry weight (g/plant)

Crop R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 Mean R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 Mean
Bok choy 145 135 141 121 141 136.6 22.4 19 19.5 16.7 19.4 19.4
Broccoli 130 142 138 140 150 140.0 25 21.7 22 18.8 21.9 21.9
Lettuce 180 190 172 194 186 184.0 28 25 26 20.4 24.7 24.8
Yield Obtained

Plant Name Number of Number of Weight of Weight of Total

Pipes(N) pots in each each plant plant per weight 0f
length(N) (grams) length of Yield
pipe(grams) Obtained
(grams)
Bok choy 3 13 136.6 1775.8 5,327.4
Broccoli 3 13 140 1820 5460.0
Lettuce 6 7 184 1288 7728

CONCLUSION
Hydroponics is a soilless farming method that offers numerous advantages over traditional soil-
based agriculture. It allows for higher crop yields, efficient resource utilization, reduced pest
and disease risks, year-round cultivation, space utilization in urban areas, and water
conservation. By providing precise control over nutrient solutions, hydroponics ensures optimal
plant growth and maximizes productivity. Additionally, the ability to customize growing
conditions and create an ideal environment leads to healthier plants and better-quality produce.
With its potential to revolutionize agriculture and address global food security challenges,
hydroponics is a promising and sustainable farming technique for the future. We have
concluded from the study that, water with salinities up to 7.0 dS m-1 can be utilized for
growing in NFT hydroponic systems fitted in PVC pipes without harming the product's visual
quality. The total water used by the plants were 0.89 L bunch-1.

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