Aquaculture/Aquaponics
Easiest set-up
Roots totally immersed in nutrient solution
Must: Support plant above solution, aerate solution and prevent light from reaching solution
Change solution every 1-2 weeks
Continuous Flow System
Typically used in commercial hydroponics
Nutrient solution pumped or flowed by gravity to growing pipes
Bathes the roots then returns to holding tank
Solution aerates itself as it flows back
PVC pipe is commonly used.
Aeroponics
Roots of the plant grow in a closed container
Misting system of nutrient solution
Near 100% humidity to prevent drying
A-Frame containers are most popular
Aggregate Culture
Uses some form of inert material (i.e. sand) to support plant roots
Pump and return solution using 1 of 2 methods
Flood and drain method
Trickle feed method