In hydroponics plants are grown in a solution consisting of water and nutrients required for a particular plant, or within a system that uses a substrate or growing mix medium. There are several hydroponics techniques and systems that exist for producing plant crops. Hydroponics systems include the nutrient film technique, aeroponics, and the aeration technique. Secondly, hydroponics eliminates many of the problems associated with traditional farming that leads to sickly, damaged, or wasted crops. Because hydroponic growers produce their own nutrients mixes, it takes the guess work out of figuring out which plants will grow best in a field and what nutrients need to be added to the soil. First, the burning hydrocarbon fuels will create carbon dioxide gas. Second, the use of dry ice can aid in the production of this gas. Third, fermentation of organic materials creates carbon dioxide. Fourth, the decomposition of organic matter such as compost will create carbon dioxide. Finally, the use of compressed bottled carbon dioxide is the most commonly used way to create the gas in a greenhouse for the desired effect. Identifying Spider Mites on your Hydroponically Grown Produce It is important to identify and get rid of any insects living in your hydroponics system. Insects such as spider mites can destroy your hydroponically grown produce. Spider mites like many pests can be terminated in several ways. The best way to avoid a spider mite infestation is by taking precautionary measures. The ideal temperature for your plants will be between 40 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit. The actual temperature for the particular plant you are growing will vary. For optimal growth, the amount of light your plants receive can be the difference between life and death. Too many lights can dry out your plants while too few can have your plants stretching desperately towards the lights. The History and Growth of Hydroponics Hydroponics means working water and comes from the Greek words “hydro” and “ponos,” meaning water and labor. Many different civilizations have utilized hydroponic growing techniques throughout history so they are not a new method of growing plants.