Please login first
Hydroponic System For Kitchen Gardening
* , , , ,
1  Department of Structural and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan
Academic Editor: Carmen Teodosiu

Abstract:

Agriculture contributes 24% of Pakistan's GDP, serving as the backbone of the country's economy. In 2022, agriculture contributed around 22.5% to the GDP of Pakistan. This sector provides food and raw materials for the people of Pakistan, but it faces many problems despite its importance. In traditional agriculture, soil serves as the growing medium, providing the necessary nutrients and minerals for optimal plant growth. However, fertile land is decreasing rapidly due to soil erosion, land pollution, and urbanization, which reduces agricultural productivity. As fertile land becomes infertile and the world population continues to grow, reaching an estimated 9.7 billion by the end of 2050, alternative solutions are necessary to meet the food demand. This necessity leads us to the hydroponic system, a promising method that relies on a nutrient solution for plant growth. This final year project is an important step in promoting sustainable agriculture and effective food production. In hydroponics, growing media such as perlite, rockwool, and coconut coir are used. The roots are submerged in a nutrient-rich solution, where plants absorb the necessary nutrients. Soil-less farming practices have shown very promising results globally, especially in areas with low fertility, due to improved space and water-conserving techniques that minimize environmental effects. The primary focus of this final year project on hydroponic systems for kitchen gardening is to provide access to fresh, 100% organic homemade vegetables and fruits, regardless of the user's agricultural knowledge. Plants can achieve 20-25% higher yields compared to the traditional soil-based method, with a productivity range of 2-5 times greater.

Keywords: Water; Hydroponics; Organic Food; Food security; Agriculture sustainability; Environmental sustainability.

 
 
Top