Agronomy Degree Practice Exam

Which of the following is an essential requirement for successful hydroponics?

1. Soil

2. Water and nutrients

3. Sunlight only

4. Compost

The correct answer is: Water and nutrients

Successful hydroponics relies primarily on the availability of water and nutrients, as the fundamental principle of this method is the cultivation of plants in a soilless environment. In hydroponics, plants obtain all their required nutrients directly from a nutrient-rich water solution, which allows for greater control of the growing conditions and can enhance plant growth and yield. This system enables the roots of the plants to access these necessary elements efficiently, leading to more robust and healthy growth. Soil is not a component of hydroponic systems; rather, alternatives like inert growing mediums can be used to support the plant if needed, but they do not provide the nutrients. Similarly, while sunlight is important for photosynthesis, it is not sufficient on its own without the necessary nutrients that hydroponics specifically provides. Compost is associated with traditional soil-based gardening and does not play a role in hydroponic systems, where soil and organic matter are intentionally omitted.