If soil in all areas was of a consistently high quality and if all who wished to grow plants had the soil and space to do so, perhaps hydroponics would be no more than a curious experiment. Soil varies greatly in consistency and quality and requires considerable labour to keep it in good condition, and as many now live in cities and suburbs, in small units and flats lacking gardening space, hydroponics is the best and indeed the only logical alternative. Raising plants hydroponically in pots or containers, or in units tailored to fit whatever size and shape of space you have available, is both easy and cost effective. Flood and drain - not a desirable method as a relatively large volume of water in relation to plant life is used, making it impracticable for major production. Commercial growers use N. F.T Reduced use of resources, eg. water and fertiliser, makes N. F.T economical and viable.
Hydroponic units remain weed free and largely free of most common pests and diseases.
Crop after crop can be produced with consistently excellent results. Moving house no problem, just take your hydroponic unit with you. Out of season cropping makes hydroponics a most attractive proposition. Mistakes do happen. Incorrect dilution of nutrient or not using food quality materials and human error.