As both small and large hydroponic farms were established in the late 1970s, it was proven that hydroponic culture could produce premium produce and be a profitable venture. As hydroponics attracted more growers, complete plant nutrient formulas, and hydroponic greenhouse systems were being marketed. The Pros and Cons of Going Hydroponic Hydroponics is a Latin term, which literally means “working water.” What it means to horticulture is the growing of plants without soil. Hydroponic gardening is an exciting field that offers solutions to several problems faced in the world of food production. In addition this system does not generate heat so it is easier to regulate than other forms of generating carbon dioxide. A flow meter and timer regulates the amount of time that the gas is released into the growing environment. Increasing the carbon dioxide in your greenhouse will improve the growth of your plants and it could lead to increased profits for gardeners who sell their plant products. If you are a beginning hydroponic gardener you may want to use the pre-mixed nutrient solutions and observe their effects before you begin to make your own solutions. The basic nutrients needed in any hydroponic solution are potassium phosphate, potassium nitrate, calcium nitrate and magnesium sulfate. Many growers use hydroponics systems to grow tomatoes, lettuce, watercress, cucumbers, herbs, and various other edible plants. Beginning growers will be satisfied with the quality of their crops, and the rates at which they will grow. Flowers and tree seedlings can also be grown using hydroponics. Hydroponic greenhouses produce millions of plant seedlings each year, which are transplanted and grown at other locations where they are later planted into soil. The key is to monitor the nutrient solutions on a regular basis to make sure the pH is at the right level. Hydroponics is the practice of growing plants without soil as hydroponics cultivates plants in nutrient-rich water. This is an advantageous method of gardening for home and for commercial use. There are no weeds to deal with and hydroponic plants are typically healthier, mature earlier, and use less space.