Soilless Culture: Theory and Practice: Theory and Practice

Soilless Culture: Theory and Practice, Second Edition is the first authoritative reference book on both the theoretical and practical aspects of growing plants without the use of soil. It is the go-to source for those involved in this practice, focusing on hydroponics and advancements in technologies and methodologies. The book builds on the thorough presentation of both physical and chemical properties of various soilless growing media, also addressing how these properties affect plant performance in basic horticultural operations, such as irrigation and fertilization. In addition, the book describes the latest technical advancements and methodologies, including run-to-waste, re-circulation and closed systems.

Provides a fully revised and updated edition with key insights on all current media types for plant productionExplains the latest information on water and nutrient availabilityIncludes rootstock/scion relationships in substratesContains a chapter focusing specifically on hydroponics

1. Significance of Soilless Culture in Agriculture 2. Functions of the Root System 3. Physical Characteristics of Soilless Media 4. Irrigation in Soilless Production 5. Technical Equipment in Soilless Production Systems 6. Chemical Characteristics of Soilless Media 7. Analytical Methods Used in Soilless Cultivation 8. Nutrition of Substrate=Grown Plants 9. Fertigation Management and Crops Response to Solution Recycling in Semi-Closed Greenhouses 10. Pathogen Detection and Management Strategies in Soilless Plant Growing Systems 11. Organic Soilless Media Components 12. Inorganic and Synthetic Organic Components of Soilless Culture and Potting Mixes 13. Growing Plants in Soilless Culture: Operational Conclusions 14. Hydroponics