Hydroponics is a breakthrough in plant culture system where water is used instead of soil as a growing medium. In this system, the plants' roots are suspended in, flooded with or misted with nutrient-rich water which is delivered to the roots continuously to provide them with all nutrients needed by the plants for healthy growth. Hydroponics can be a cost-effective solution for people who only have a small space, such as in urban areas. It is also an effective way to plant small non-woody herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables which can be harvested in a matter of months.

Hydroponically planted plants have higher nutritional values compared to those planted in soil.  Hydroponic plants use a little or no pesticides; thus, hydroponic products will be healthier.  Texture of hydroponic product is also crunchier.

SEAMEO BIOTROP has developed hydroponics models for inside and outside the greenhouses and has been successfully growing and harvesting various kinds of fruit and vegetable plants, such as melon, watermelon, cucumber, tomato, chili, okra, bittergourd, eggplant, water spinach, spinach, lettuce, kale, Chinese broccoli, tatsoi, mint leaves, basil leaves, cabbage, green mustard, celery, garlic, onion and Chinese cabbage since 2016. Recently, the Centre also grows flowers, such as ulam raja and chrysanthemums in its hydroponics greenhouses.

For further information, please contact:
Ms. Riana Hartati, S.Si.
Hydroponics Unit
SEAMEO BIOTROP
riana@biotrop.org