When it comes to indoor gardening, there are two main types of growing: hydroponic and soil. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so how do you know which is the best option for your plants, budget, and setup? In this blog post from our team here at Midwest Grow Co., we will explore the key differences between hydroponic and soil-based indoor gardening to help you decide which is the best choice for your needs. Keep reading to learn more and shop online for your indoor gardening supplies and grow equipment today.
Soil Benefits
Soil is the most common type of indoor gardening, and for good reason – it's cheap, easy to find, and a little more forgiving on nutrition errors, making it a better option for “first-timers”. Soil allows your plants to grow deep roots, which helps them absorb more nutrients and water. Soil also contains beneficial bacteria and fungi that help break down organic matter into usable nutrients for your plants.
Soil Drawbacks
Soil also has some drawbacks. It can be difficult to create the perfect environment for plants to grow in, as different types of soil have different needs. Soil can also be heavy and difficult to move around, which can be a problem if you are limited on space. Additionally, soil acts as a middle man, absorbing and stealing water and other nutrients from getting to the plants.
Hydroponic Benefits
Hydroponics is a type of indoor gardening that uses only water and no soil to provide nutrients to your plants. It is is “modernized” with technology and offers a higher level of control, which is harder to achieve than when growing in soil. The hydroponic gardening method has a ton of benefits, including increased yield, reduced water usage — typically 80-90% less water than soil-based gardens — and you can grow more in less space.
Hydroponic Drawbacks
Of course, hydroponics also has some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the cost — hydroponic gardening systems can be expensive to set up. Hydroponics also requires more maintenance than soil-based gardens, and if the water quality is not good, your plants will not thrive.
So which type of indoor gardening is right for you? At Midwest Grow Co., we offer the best selection of indoor gardening supplies and grow equipment for hydroponic gardening whether you choose hydro or soil gardening. Shop our selection now!