Introduction
Coriander also commonly known as cilantro or dhaniya is one of the holiest used green herbs that are almost or always present in the Indian kitchen. If you need to learn how to cultivate fresh Coriander at home without garden space and soil and only water then hydroponic farming is the best solution for you. In this blog, we’ll show you various ways to guide you in growing coriander at home through hydroponics. This technique not only quenches space and water but advantageously provides you with fresh coriander throughout the year.
Essential Materials
For growing coriander at home, you will need the following materials:
1)Hydroponic System
A method of growing the plants in a basin of water while the roots are exposed to air rather than being buried in the soil. You can buy one from the shops or you can set up your own homemade model.
2)Coriander Seeds
Select organic seeds because organic seeds will help in growing healthy and strong plants as compared to other common seeds.
3)Nutrient Solution
A fertilizer for the plants which they can purchase easily on the market today.
4)Growing Medium
Other support structures may include Rock wool or coco coir on which the plants are placed.
5)pH Meter
To regulate the PH level of water which will allow plants to absorb it from the soil effectively.
6)Net Pots
Containers that are of small size can be placed inside the hydroponic system.
7)Water Tank
For retaining water and the nutrient solution available for the germination and pre-growing of the seeds.
8)Grow Lights (if sunlight is limited)
To light the plants, The use of these devices was to give sufficient light to the plants.
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Hydroponics is a form of growing plants under controlled environmental conditions without the use of soil and how to grow coriander is explained below
1)Soak the Seeds
Begin with washing the coriander seeds with water and soaking them for approximately one day. This is because with the increased rate of oxygen availability, the seed germinates easily and grows at a faster rate.
2)Prepare the Hydroponic System
You should flood your hydroponic system with water accompanied by a nutrient solution.
It would be useful to use a pH meter to be sure that the water’s pH level does not exceed 6. 0 and 6. 5.
3)Plant the Seeds
When the seeds have swollen, transfer them into the growing medium; and thereafter into the net pots.
Make sure the seeds are properly placed to allow the roots to have access to the nutrient solution.
4)Provide Light and Maintain Temperature
Another critical aspect for the plants to be healthy is to make sure that they get 6-8 hours of light daily. If the exposure to sunlight is inadequate then artificial lighting or grow lights should be used.
Keep the seed-friendly environment with the optimum temperature ranging from 18-24 degrees Celsius for proper growth of the seed.
5)Monitor Water and Nutrients
Replacement of water and nutrient solution should be done every week.
It is recommended that the water levels and the pH level should be checked often so that it supports the health of the plants.
6)Harvest the Crop
Your coriander will be ready to harvest within 21- 28 days. First, you begin trimming the oldest leaves then allowing the plant to grow from the center.
Benefits of growing coriander at home
Hydroponics offers several key benefits when it comes to growing coriander The advantages of hydroponics for coriander plant growth are numerous, the following:1)High Yield in Limited Space
Hydroponic system refers to the system whereby plant roots are placed in nutrient solution instead of soil hence it is possible to cultivate more plants in limited space.
2)Water Efficiency
This system is 90% more efficient in its water usage as compared to the traditional conventional method as water is recycled and evaporation is minimal.
3)Faster Plant Growth
It delivers nutrients directly to plants and aids the growth of plants to an extent of between 30-50% higher than that of normal growth of plants.
4)No Soil Needed
It also does not contain issues relating to the soil like pests & diseases therefore making the system very clean to manage.
5)Reduced Pesticide Use
Due to the lack of soil, the incidences of pests and diseases are closely ruled out hence the application of pesticides is rare.
6)Year-Round Cultivation
This system has advantages in that temperature, light, and nutrients can be controlled and therefore the product can be produced all through the year.
7)Cleaner and Healthier Harvest
There is also the bonus of hydroponically grown plants being organic, and containing little to no soil residue, pesticide residue, and other chemicals.
8)Lower Costs and Less Labor
These hydroponic systems take less time and energy for management once set up implying that the cost of production is brought down.
9)Ideal for Urban Farming
Thus regarding the avails, hydroponics is very suitable for the growth of crops in areas where space is limited such as in urban areas. The Brandbook can be Fixated on Balconies, on Rooftops, and or indoors.
10)Environmentally Friendly
Hydroponic farming is environmentally friendly thus conserves water, has low use of pesticides, and requires a small area.
Conclusion
Hydroponic growing of coriander at home is easy and if done will make sure that you get a fresh and healthy plant all year round. This method ensures that maximum production is achieved from a small space and with little water making it appropriate for use in the urban areas. Here is a fairly simple way you can use to grow coriander at home and enjoy the fresh produce it provides in your recipes
