The pandemic had a profound influence on a number of different industries. Hydroponic gardening is one of them.
Since 2020, more and more people have taken to cultivating their own food. Hydroponics provide a space-efficient way to do so.
The push towards hydroponic gardening had different motivations for different people. Some wanted to gain independence from the corporate supply chain after seeing how easily and profoundly it could be disrupted. Hydroponic gardening provides not just a reliable source of nutrient-packed food. In the long run, it’s also more cost-effective than relying on large corporations.
In addition, growing your own houseplants, fruit, and vegetables became a social media trend during the pandemic. People cooped up in their own homes during lockdowns yearned for vibrant green in their lives, and were inspired by posts on platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
For others, it was a more personal decision. They sought a deeper connection with the food they cultivated, for both their mental and physical health during these stressful times.
An expert at Progrow, a UK-based supplier of hydroponic systems, explains: “One reason is that when you are growing your own plants, you form a relationship with them like that of a traditional pet. After all, the plants are feeding you with nice clean oxygen! People say the essence of relationships is reciprocity, so this human – plant symbiotic relationship is just as relevant as a human – pet relationship”
A further reason why many people gravitate towards hydroponic gardening, especially in the wake of lockdowns, is that it offers absolute control over the growing process. A large set of devices and plant training methods allows people to fine-tune conditions for optimal growth – including parameters such as temperature, CO2 concentrations, and automatic nutrient supply.
Consequently, hydroponic gardening can guarantee a reliable supply of fruits and vegetables, with consistent yields thanks to stable conditions. In addition, hydroponically grown produce can also boast a high quality, both in terms of taste and visual appeal, due to the optimized environment in which it is grown.
One more aspect that has motivated many people to get involved in hydroponic gardening are environmental concerns. In sync with the pandemic, various disasters have highlighted the impacts of the climate crisis. For many, sustainability is therefore a key concern.
In many ways, hydroponics has a much lower environmental impact than traditional farming. It uses far less water and needs lower quantities of fertilizer. Pesticides and pollution are all but eliminated. Going further, hydroponics variations such as vertical gardens also allow both individuals and larger organizations to save valuable space and protect soil from overexploitation and depletion.
Finally, a major factor in the popularity of hydroponics both during the pandemic and in its wake is the close-knit community that has evolved. Hydroponic gardening is a rewarding hobby with infinite nuances. Beginners and experts have banded together in both online and offline spaces in order to exchange their knowledge, form connections, and share their love of hydroponic gardening.
