The word Hydroponics was coined from two Greek words; “hydro” meaning water and “ponos” meaning work or labor. The word was conceived by Professor William Gericke at the University of California, Berkeley in the late 1930’s. Hydroponics has commonly come to mean “soilless growing”, or plants being grown in anything besides soil. Dan Lubkeman, President of the H.S.A., refers to hydroponics as meaning “more food, in less space, with less water and in less time.”
There are a limited number of styles of hydroponics. Run-to-waste, Ebb&Flow, Aeroponics, Aero-Hydroponics, Drip, Deep Water Culture and Nutrient Film Technique. There are a few variations on these themes, but these are the basic methods of water delivery popularly used around the world and designated as “hydroponics”.
Hydroponics is now used in nearly every country in the world and has become a household word. There is obviously much more the story of hydroponics. To learn more contact the Hydroponic Society of America at (510) 926-2908.