Substrates are a key element in hydroponic systems. As growers, we must learn the needs of our hydroponic systems and crops. Crops and hydroponic systems demand particular characteristics from growing substrates. Substrates, along with all environmental variables managed at the root zone level, will have a strong effect on plant growth, development, product quantity, and quality.

This guide aims to provide a tool for growers who are interested in improving their understanding of substrates in hydroponic systems.

This guide includes:

• A break down of substrates
• Physical and chemical properties of substrates
• Substrate options
• Rootzone environment
• Environmental variables
• Rootzone management by crops