Soilless plants exist and are so called because they can grow without the traditional substrate. They absorb nutrients through water and other solutions. Moreover, it is an interesting crop if you are looking for different plants and do not want to depend only on soil.
On the other hand, although they are not grown in traditional soil, they can be grown in controlled spaces. Consider choosing structures such as a tunnel greenhouse, a straight walls tunnel greenhouse, a minitunnel greenhouse or a minichapel greenhouse. Each one allows you to organise your crops with care, and before we go for any of them, let’s learn more about the plants.
- What are soilless plants?
- Ways to grow plants without soil in a garden greenhouse
- How to care for a soilless plant in a garden greenhouse
- Which plants can grow in water without soil?
What are soilless plants?
Soilless plants are those that do not need soil to grow. Instead of using soil, they can be grown in other methods in which they absorb sufficient water and nutrients. It is also a popular type of cultivation because it is versatile and adaptable to various techniques.
Ways to grow plants without soil in a garden greenhouse
Soilless plants can be grown using different systems, and you can even grow them in greenhouses. Below, we explain the most popular ways of cultivation.
Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a technique that uses nutrient solutions dissolved in water to feed plants. This method does not require soil and allows good control over the nutrients the plant receives. It also tends to result in faster growth and good yields.
Here, the roots of the plants are directly exposed to the solution, which means that the nutrients are absorbed very well.
Aeroponics
Aeroponics is a variant of hydroponics that uses an elevated space to grow plants. With this system, the roots are suspended in the air and sprayed with a nutrient mist from time to time.
It is a method that allows good oxygenation of the roots and promotes robust growth throughout the plant.
Growing in water
Water culture is one of the simplest ways of growing plants in water without soil. This involves submerging the roots of the plants in water and already having the nutrients dissolved in the water. It is considered an affordable and easy-to-implement technique.
Plants grown in water require little care and are less prone to soil-borne pests and diseases.
Growing on alternative substrates
There is also alternative substrate cultivation. This uses materials such as perlite, vermiculite or coconut fibre instead of traditional soil. In addition, they are substrates that:
- They offer good aeration and drainage.
- They are often reusable and sustainable.
- Are good options for greenhouses
- Allows for more flexibility in the design of the growing space.
How to care for a soilless plant in a garden greenhouse
To ensure that your plant is well cared for, you should follow these tips:
- Nutrient control: A good balance of nutrients in the solution should be maintained. Therefore, regularly monitor pH levels and nutrient concentrations.
- Adequate lighting: Su fficient light must be provided for the plants to photosynthesise. Here you can opt for artificial systems if necessary.
- Ventilation and temperature: Maintain good air circulation and control the temperature inside the greenhouse.
- Pest prevention: Preventive measures should be taken to avoid the appearance of pests and diseases. Inspect plants regularly and act immediately if you detect any problems.
- Maintaining the growing system: Check that the growing systems are working properly. In addition, perform regular maintenance to prevent failures.
Which plants can grow in water without soil?
- Lucky bamboo: This plant is ideal for water culture and is known to be very hardy.
- Fittonia: Also known as “nervous plant” and is well suited for cultivation in water.
- Ferns: There are many types of ferns that grow in high humidity and soilless environments.
- Orchids: Some orchid varieties can be grown in water, although they require more specific care.
- Potos: This is a climbing plant that is perfect for growing in water.