A brief history of hydroponics
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A Brief History of Hydroponics: From Ancient Times to Modern Soilless Growing
Hydroponics is now synonymous with innovative, sustainable and efficient soil-free plant cultivation. But where did this fascinating method of growing come from? Let's take a look at the key moments in the history of hydroponics, from the first attempts in the distant past to modern technological advances.
2000 BC: The Birth of the Flower Pot in Egypt
The first mention of growing plants in containers comes from Egypt. Although it is not related to hydroponics per se, it was an important milestone: man transplanted a plant into a container and began to grow it outside its natural environment. This step laid the foundation for future innovations.
600 BC: Hanging Gardens of Babylon – myth or first hydroponics?
The famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon, said to be one of the wonders of the ancient world, are often associated with the beginnings of hydroponics. The plants were supposed to be grown in troughs with a constant supply of water. The catch? They were always planted in soil, which does not meet the modern definition of hydroponics. And those “hanging” gardens? The name comes from a Greek word meaning “to tower.”
1100 AD: Chinampas – the floating gardens of the Aztecs
The Aztecs of Mexico and the indigenous people of South America developed the technique of “chinampas” – floating islands woven from reeds and corn, covered with volcanic soil. The roots of the plants thus drew nutrients not only from the soil, but also directly from the water. This method is considered the first true use of hydroponics.
1699: John Woodward and the first hydroponic experiments
English botanist John Woodward experimentally demonstrated that plants obtain nutrients from water. He found that plants grew better in river water than in distilled water because it contained minerals. This was a crucial step in understanding the role of nutrients in plant growth.
1860: Julius Von Sachs and the first nutrient solution
German scientist Julius Von Sachs developed a recipe for a nutrient solution that allowed plants to be grown directly in water. Together with Wilhelm Knop, they laid the foundations of modern hydroponics. Although their methods were primitive, it was a breakthrough that led to more research into hydroponics.
1920–1930: William F. Gericke and Modern Hydroponics
American scientist William F. Gericke brought hydroponics from the laboratory to the commercial sphere and first used the term “hydroponics.” His work attracted public attention and demonstrated the potential of the method, although early attempts often failed due to a lack of expertise.
1940–1944: Hydroponics in War
During World War II, the US military used hydroponics to grow food for soldiers on remote Pacific islands. The technology allowed for efficient production where land was unsuitable or unavailable.
1960–1970: A new era thanks to mineral wool and chelates
In the 1960s, mineral wool (Rockwool), originally an insulating material, emerged as an ideal substrate for hydroponic cultivation. The introduction of chelates then allowed the stabilization of trace elements in solution. Along with advances in the plastics industry, the era of greenhouses and hydroponic systems began.
1970–1990: Hydroponics for everyone
This period brought a boom in new hydroponic systems and technologies. Thanks to the work of Lawrence Brook and General Hydroponics, hydroponics spread to hobby gardeners. For the first time, people could grow fresh herbs and vegetables at home without the need for soil.
Hydroponics Today: The Technology of the Future
Today, hydroponics is synonymous with efficient, gentle and modern plant cultivation. In times of climate change and growing food needs, it is becoming a key technology that saves water, space and allows the cultivation of fresh crops even in extreme conditions.
So, do you want to start your own small hydroponic farm? 🌱