How Much Can I Earn From Hydroponic Farming? Complete Guide!
Hydroponics involves growing plants in water enriched with nutrients. It uses no soil. Compared to outdoor gardens, hydroponic systems are faster and more controllable. What are the benefits of investing in a hydroponic farm?
A hydroponic farming system can generate an average revenue of $ 21.15 per square foot. On average, vertical hydroponic farming systems can earn $ 41.16 per square foot. The figure can range from $ 2.13 to $ 100.
The annual income of a one-acre hydroponic farm can range from $ 200,000 to $ 250,000. In contrast, conventional farms of the same size will produce between $ 20,000 and $ 30,000.
Hydroponic systems can get nutrients from various sources. Fish excrement, duck manure, chemical fertilizers, or artificial nutrient solutions are among them.
Cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, cannabis, lettuce, and strawberries are popular hydroponic plants. They thrive well in hydroponic systems.
There are six main types of hydroponic systems:
1. Wicking
2. Deep Water Culture (DWC)
3. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
4. Ebb and Flow
5. Aeroponics
6. Drip systems. Vertical hydroponic systems consist of stacks of growing trays arranged in layers.
It is either an active or passive system that delivers nutrient solutions to the roots. The “active” systems use pumps to circulate and aerate nutrient solutions. Then they transport them to the root zone.
There are no pumps or moving parts in passive systems. They use flooding, gravity, or capillary action to deliver nutrients to the root zone.
Regardless of the weather, you can use it year-round. Hydroponics requires enough expertise, knowledge, and equipment for proper functioning. Find out more about hydroponic farming in this video.
What Are The Benefits Of Hydroponic Farming?
1. Conserves Water
A distinct advantage of hydroponics is that it requires less water. Intensive (conventional) farming requires 214 liters of water to grow 1 kilogram of tomatoes. For the same crop, hydroponics only needs 70 liters.
Using recirculated water is possible in hydroponics. It allows plants to absorb what they need and return the rest to the system.
2. Weather Conditions Are Within Your Control
There is no need for sunlight or a specific temperature for it. With grow lights, you can replace natural sunlight. A grow light can be an LED, fluorescent lamp, incandescent bulb, or an HID light. Hydroponics helps you deal with unpredictable weather with its resource-efficient design.
It is possible to simulate sunlight with supplementary lighting solutions. A brightness-controlling system mimics the natural cycles of daylight and darkness. The hydroponic system gives you control over light, heat, nutrients, and everything else.
3. Needs No Soil
Those with limited space or no outdoor space can enjoy hydroponics. Traditional farming relies on soil for anchoring plants and storing nutrients and water.
Traditional agricultural practices have eroded half of the earth’s soil. It has led to a significant decrease in the availability of arable land.
The hydroponic system eliminates the need for soil. This method provides a direct nutrient-containing aqueous solution supply to the plant’s roots. Hydroponics makes it easier for plants to absorb nutrients.
Hydroponics combined with vertical farming can reduce land usage by up to 99%. The reason is that the roots do not have to spread out to find nutrients and moisture.
4. Faster Growth Rate
With hydroponics, you can expect faster growth and a more plentiful harvest. Increased oxygen levels in the nutrient solution and the controlled environment cause this. Hydroponic plants grow 30-50% faster than soil-grown plants.
Since plants do not have to spread their roots out to search for nutrients, they have more energy for growth. Biomass and protein production is highest in hydroponics.
5. Protection From Weather Disasters And Seasonal Changes
Unpredictable weather disasters often cause traditional farmers to lose their entire harvest. Any time of the year can bring droughts, fires, floods, and pest invasions. Because you control the weather conditions in hydroponic greenhouses, you protect your harvest.
People cannot find fresh produce all year round due to harsh climate and soil conditions. As hydroponic gardens contain their microbiomes, they can grow anywhere. As a result, you can enjoy fresh, ripe strawberries for the same price even in the off-season.
So even in the dead of winter, you can grow and harvest. Your greenhouse will protect your crops from pests.
It helps you enter into longer-term wholesale contracts with fixed prices. Throughout the year, you will be able to ensure a constant supply of produce.
6. Less Labor Involvement
Hydroponics saves you time on labor-intensive tasks like tilling or weeding. You can avoid applying herbicides and insecticides as well. It will reduce crop production costs. It is even possible for a single part-time worker to run a small hydroponic greenhouse.
7. Reduces The Production Cost
You can establish hydroponic greenhouses in areas where traditional farming is not workable. You can reduce transport and preservation costs this way.
8. The Less Threat Of Pests And Diseases
You can cultivate hydroponic gardens within a hydroponic greenhouse or other structure. Their micro-climates provide better protection against pests and weeds. Due to the absence of soil, hydroponics is free of soil-borne diseases.
Is Hydroponic Farming More Profitable?
Hydroponic farming has gained popularity among investors and the general public. It has proven to be productive and profitable in recent years.
Hydroponic farms built indoors or in greenhouses are both suitable for commercial use. It can generate satisfying revenue for you.
Is Hydroponics A Good Investment?
Hydroponics is an innovative farming practice. It can generate enough revenue to cover wages and overhead expenses. Hydroponic systems produce the most profitable crops with leafy greens, such as lettuce.
The market for hydroponic produce is lucrative for many reasons. Mindful and sustainable growing practices are essential for consumers seeking safe food. It has led to consumers growing their food and taking an interest in hydroponics.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Hydroponics?
In contrast to a traditional garden, a hydroponic system is more expensive to buy and build. There is a constant need for monitoring and maintenance. It is susceptible to power outages. The spread of waterborne diseases can be rapid.
Conclusion:
Future harsh environments will enjoy hydroponics. The reason is that it requires less water and nutrients to grow food. This technology has proven to be successful both on earth and in space.