Production of vegetables on floating systems is a viable alternative to traditional cultivation. Vegetables with a short root formation are particularly suitable for this technique. It provides the possibility to produce year-round. Studies by the University of Arizona show that even with a simple system, about 1,400 quality lettuce plants can be produced for a good market price.
Leafy vegetables can be produced on floating systems with the roots completely submerged: the Deep Floating Hydroponic System (DFHS). Polystyrene foam boards are immersed in water that is supplied with nutrients for the plants. The sowing is done on these boards, the roots digging their way through until they reach the water.
Myles Lewis, a student at Arizona State University and owner of the Arizona Vegetable Company recommends using white containers. During a tour of his company, he explains that prepared seeds might be five times as expensive, but they have a 99% chance of germinating under the right conditions.
"After the Styrofoam plates are placed in the water,” says Lewis, “I do not touch them until the harvest period. Touching the plant increases the risk of contamination. In addition, insects and pests must be effectively combatted, a constant temperature of 21°C must be maintained and ventilation should be constant. Ventilation keeps insects away. The combustion of germs due to calcium deficiency can be prevented with additional air supply."
This simple system allows the grower to adapt his supply to market demand. Plants that are cultivated in this way include: mustard, red onion, spring onion, cabbage, balsamic, watercress and some types of flowers.
Source: hortalizas.com