Crops can blight, animals can get diseases. I don’t know much about hydroponics but I know that bacteria are a concern. What food source is the most reliable, the least likely to produce less food than expected?

  • Fizz@lemmy.nz
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    1 year ago

    You can’t really generate much calories with aeroponics. I thought they could only grow saladlike foods.

    • xeddyx@lemmy.nz
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      1 year ago

      Aeroponics is not limited to just salad-like foods. While leafy greens and herbs are common choices due to their relatively fast growth and smaller size, a variety of crops can be grown using aeroponic systems. Here’s a breakdown:

      1. Leafy Greens and Herbs: These are among the most popular crops for aeroponic systems. Examples include lettuce, kale, arugula, spinach, basil, cilantro, and mint.

      2. Fruits and Vegetables: Many fruits and vegetables can also be grown aeroponically, such as strawberries, bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. However, the setup might need to account for the additional weight and support these plants require as they grow and bear fruit.

      3. Root Crops: Even though aeroponic systems expose plant roots to air, it’s possible to grow root crops like potatoes, carrots, and radishes. The roots develop in the dark environment of the aeroponic chamber.

      4. Grains: While less common, some grains might also be grown in aeroponic systems under controlled conditions. However, the scale and practicality of doing so would be different from traditional soil-based farming.

      5. Medicinal Plants: Some growers use aeroponics to cultivate medicinal plants because the method allows for a high degree of control over nutrient delivery, potentially optimizing the concentration of desired compounds.

      6. Ornamental Plants: While the primary focus of aeroponics is food production, the system can also be used for ornamental plants, especially in research settings where specific growth conditions are required.

      That said, the choice of crops for aeroponic systems often depends on the specific goals of the grower, the design of the system, and available resources. While a wide range of plants can be grown aeroponically, the system’s setup and management might vary depending on the plant’s requirements.