Hydroponic farming is a modern soil less cultivation of plants, this technique of farming has high-yield capacity that grows plants very rapidly. Today, urban consumers and restaurants demand fresh, chemical-free green vegetables—targeting this demand can make hydroponics a profitable small or commercial business.
What is hydroponic farming?
Hydroponic farming is a modern technique that uses very little or no soil to grow plants. Plants grow in an environment of nutrient-rich water, oxygen, and controlled light. Plant roots absorb nutrients directly from the water, allowing plants to grow faster, healthier, and without the need for chemicals.
The Key benefits of Hydroponic farming are:
- Hydroponics does not require soil, so it can be easily implemented on balconies, terraces, rooms or even urban areas.
- It keeps circulating water to reduce usability for which less water is used than other types of farming.
- Due to plants getting exact nutrients, growth is 2–3 times faster than traditional farming.
- No need to depends on Climate Change and weather -you can get production 12 months a year.
- This can be best to grow in urban rooftop within very less space so that you can get fresh veggies for yourself.
Best hydroponic Farming Methods: There are several types of hydroponic farming system are available best low cost methods are given below
- NFT (Nutrient Film Technique): In this system plants are grown in a slanted (slightly inclined) channel, through which a thin layer of nutrient-rich water continuously flows.
How does it works ?
- Plants roots are located within the channel.
- The pumps forces the nutrient solution to the top of the channel to flow the water.
- The drains down the drain and returns to the tank(Recirculation).
- Plants are continuously supplied with fresh nutrients.
- Best for leafy greens- lettuce, spinach,kale,basil.
   Advantages:
- The wastage of water become zero.
- Fast growth for plants due to regular and continuous supply nutrition.
- This can be start with low to medium cost.
- Highly efficient system for growing of green vegetables.
   Disadvantages:
- If pumps fails and water supply become stock then plants can be quickly damaged.
Best Crops to grow in Hydroponics:
The best crops that grows faster and more profitably in hydroponics, are especially when grown in a controlled environment. Lettuce, basil, mint, spinach, and cherry tomatoes are some of the best-performing crops in hydroponic farming systems. Lettuce is the most popular because it harvests in 25-30 days, produces consistent size, and is in high demand. Herbs like basil and mint grow exceptionally well in hydroponics—they have a stronger flavor, healthier leaves, and are in demand in the restaurant, hotels and market, commanding premium prices. Spinach is also a perfect crop for hydroponics because it resists soil-borne diseases and produces clean, pesticide-free produce, which attracts health-conscious customers. Cherry tomatoes require some space and support, but they are more productive in hydroponics, have a sweeter flavor, and offer the benefit of continuous harvesting. The growth speed, quality, and market value of all these crops make hydroponics a profitable farming model.
Estimated Cost for Home made Hydroponic Setup (Small Scale-Balcony/Room)
Capacity of Plants: 10-30 Plants
Ideal for: Lettuce, spinach, herbs(basil,mint)
Total Cost approximately for Home setup : Rs. 5000 – Rs 12000
| Item | Qty | Approx Cost (Rs.) |
| Hydroponic NFT Channels / DWS tubs | 2-3 units | 1500-3000 |
| Net Pots | 20-30 | 150-300 |
| Growing Media (Cocopeat / Clay balls) | 1-2 kg | 200-350 |
| Air Pump (DWC) / Water Pump (NFT) | 1 unit | 400-1000 |
| Nutrient Solution (ABC, 1L) | 1 set | 450 -900 |
| PVC Pipes / frame | 5 units | 500 -1000 |
| TDS + pH Meter | 1 each | 800 -1500 |
| Light | 1-2 unit | 1200-3000 |
Now in the modern days, home hydroponic farming has become a smart, clean, and space-efficient method, especially for those who want to grow fresh, chemical-free vegetables. You can easily set up a small hydroponic setup at your home—on your balcony, terrace, or indoor room. The biggest advantage of this system is that it requires no soil, and low maintenance, so even beginners without any farming knowledge can easily get started. Plants receive controlled nutrients and ample oxygen, which leads to rapid growth and a regular harvest, allowing you to provide your family with healthy green vegetables year-round.
Home hydroponics may seem a bit expensive at first, but in the long run, it becomes an economical, water-efficient, and highly sustainable option. The best part is that you can start small and gradually expand your setup. Overall, hydroponic farming at home has become a part of a modern lifestyle—one that combines freshness, convenience, and sustainability.