Hydroponic systems provide readily available, water-soluble minerals directly to the roots in a complete and balanced solution, thus eliminating the need for soil. There are sixteen elements needed for plant growth. Plants extract several of these elements, such as oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, from water and air. The rest of the elements must be supplied through the nutrient solution. These distinctions are made based on how much of each nutrient plants need.
Micronutrients are sometimes present as impurities in the water and in the solid substrate.
Nitrogen Nitrogen is central to the development of new leaves and stems as well as to overall growth and performance. An overabundance of nitrogen causes soft, weak growth and possible delay of fruit and flower production. Symptoms of nitrogen deficiency are yellowing leaves and weak, spindly growth. Phosphorus Phosphorus is used by the plant in photosynthesis and in the production of flowers and seeds. It also encourages strong root growth.