Hydroponics is the growth of plants in other media which are not soil. This could be fluids that have minerals and essential plant nutrients. Agricultural benefits of hydroponics include the fact that it allows crop growth in small space, thereby achieving intensification of agriculture and better produce.
Hydroponics eliminates pests which normally exist in the soil as it uses alternative growth media. This situation reduces the need for pesticides and other agrochemicals which may be needed in pest control.
Land for agriculture remains a challenge in many countries due to increased population growth. As a result of this, hydroponics is becoming the most favoured option where applicable, as there is less pressure on land.
Soil erosion and land degradation are greatly prevented by the use of hydroponics. Although it is widely proven, the use of hydroponics is still gaining ground as many people are socialised to traditional agricultural practices which are labour intensive such as planting, weeding and harvesting. Deviating from the usual practices can be seen as taboo in some areas. This brings to the fore the issue related to technology transfer and the barriers of adoption.
