Hydroponics is a great technique to grow herbs, whether you're cultivating them for culinary or medicinal purposes. There are several reasons for this, the first of which is that they grow more quickly. Add to it the fact that they have a stronger aroma and flavor than their soil-grown rivals. Hydroponic herbs have up to 40% more fragrant oils, according to research.
Not only that, but gardeners can have a variety of herbs that they might not be able to cultivate in their area otherwise.
Herbs, like other plants, are sensitive to changes in temperature, light, and water. Any of these herbs will die if the temperature is too low or too high in either way. Growing herbs with hydroponics allows you to have a constant supply of herbs regardless of the season or weather.
Moreover, hydroponic cultivation takes less space & reduces the water consumption.
Here We Have Top 8 Herbs to Grow in a Hydroponic System
While there are herbs that are very easy to grow, here we have mentioned top eight herbs that can be easily grown in a hydroponic system.
Basil
Basil is considered as the most popular choice for hydroponics, as this herb is ideal, when it is used fresh to hold on to aroma & flavor. The dried basil usually loses these qualities. Therefore, it isn’t uncommon to see restaurants & greenhouses using the hydroponics systems for their basil herbs.
Chamomile
There are so many of us, who are a big fan of tea, you will be surprised to know that now you can grow your own chamomile, indoors with the help of hydroponics. Chamomile has great antioxidant properties, which helps in lower the risk of diseases such as cancer & heart disease. As chamomile pertains to the pH ranges, it has broad compatibility and can range anywhere from 5.6 to 7.5. Ideally, you will probably want to hit during the middle at 6.5 for the optimal growing results. And, after about 8 weeks, the chamomile flower is ready to harvest.
Rosemary
This Mediterranean herb is evergreen with the needle-like leaves. Rosemary can dawn, pink, white, purple or blue flowers. Growing this herb hydroponically compared to the herbs that can prove to be much slower. You can expect its harvest time up to 12 weeks & growing them using hydroponic system still proves much more efficient.
Cilantro
If you're a foodie, you already know how useful cilantro is. You name it: toppings, garnishes, salsas, and so on. When cilantro is cultivated hydroponically, it takes roughly 50-55 days from seed to harvest. This herb is low-maintenance and does not need to be trimmed. They can be harvested in part or in whole.
Oregano
Oregano is the part of mint. This herb is use for the thousands of years for the purpose of cooking & medical needs. Oregano will grow well in a pH range of 6.0 to 9.0 in a hydroponic system; for best results, the pH should be between 6.0 and 8.0. Rockwool cubes are commonly used to germinate seeds, which can take anywhere from one to three weeks.
Anise
This little-known herb has a licorice-like flavor. It's also known as aniseed on occasion. While anise can help with a variety of difficulties, other herbs can also aid with things like digestion, gas, cramps, and more. Because anise seedlings are delicate and difficult to transport, it's better to let them germinate and grow in their original containers. It may take up to two weeks for the seeds to germinate.
You'll want to keep the pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. The most beneficial for growth is to meet in the middle at 6.0. An oscillating fan softly churning the breeze for a couple of hours each day benefits the seedlings the best.
Dill
Dill is a celery family herb, which grows annually. It's most widely grown in Eurasia, where it's utilized as a food flavor. It can be grown hydroponically in a variety of ways. Germination can take 7-10 days, although it can also happen sooner.
Catnip
If you have a cat, you might want to grow this herb hydroponically for their enjoyment and, of course, for some mild entertainment for yourself.
Some Pointers for hydroponically producing catnip indoors includes:
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As it is easily propagated from leaf-tip cuttings or seeds.
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Allow up to 5 hours of light every day.
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Provide a consistent supply of water with correct drainage. Catnip is susceptible to root rot, so keep it out of too much water.
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Keep an eye out for mould formation, which can result from excessive misting.
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Aphids, mealybugs, scale, and whitefly infestations should all be removed.
