Hydroponics is a system for growing with a solution of water and nutrients in a soilless medium. In a top-fed active hydroponic system, a pump moves the water and nutrient solution from a reservoir up to plant roots, where the roots take what they need and the rest recycles back into the reservoir. Hydroponics offers a method of cultivation that’s clean, sustainable and yields fantastic results. Plants thrive because they get fed when they need it, where they need it. When compared to soil gardening, hydroponics uses an estimated 80% less water, grows plants 30% faster, and occupies ¼ of the space. When a planter is labeled “self-watering” it most likely utilizes passive hydroponics (like our Garden Jars). Passive hydroponic planters feature a wicking system with soil or soilless grow medium. Passive hydroponic planters don’t grow plants as quickly as active, and have a slightly more limited selections of plants that will thrive.