Q. What are hydroponics?
A. Hydroponics is the method of growing plants in nutrient rich water, instead of soil. Plants can be grown with their roots directly in this solution or in an inert medium, like gravel. In our greenhouse, water is pumped from a nutrient rich reservoir through channels that nourish the plants. The water then runs back to the reservoir where nutrients, in the form of organic fertilizers, are added as needed.
Q. How do you obtain organic certification and grow hydroponically?
A. To meet the USDA standards we will be required to use fertilizer that is not synthetic and contains no refined elements. In other words, the fertilizer will need to be composed of 100% organic materials. The fertilizer used in our greenhouse follows these guidelines. Additionally, because we are indoors and soilless, there is no need for insecticides, pesticides or herbicides.
Q. How do you keep your greenhouse warm in the winter months?
A. Greenhouses keep themselves warm throughout the winter months by trapping heat from the sun under the plastic roof. Our greenhouse is also equipped with modern equipment that helps regulate temperature in both hot and cold seasons. For the coldest winter months, the greenhouse at Lone Oak Organics is equipped with a wood burning furnace. This clean source of heat not only keeps our plants warm but also cuts down on fossil fuel emissions.
Q. Why choose hydroponically grown produce over conventional produce?
A. Hydroponic systems are built to grow produce in a controlled environment. This allows the grower to control a number of factors that influence the growth of a plant. The first benefit of growing in a hydroponic system is the isolation from soils. Keeping plants out of soil ensures harmful toxins do not affect the plant and also keeps natural terrain and ecosystems intact. Growing hydroponically eliminates the need for pesticides, herbicides and other potentially harmful chemicals. This keeps harmful materials from being ingested by the consumer. The quality of hydroponic plants is better, too. Because the environment is controlled by the grower, higher yields and better quality are the results. Last, hydroponic systems give the grower the ability to recycle unused water and fertilizers. This helps protect our precious natural resources.
Q. Do you install your system in customers’ homes and gardens?
A. Yes! Our hydroponic system is a wonderful way to grow your own fresh herbs and produce at home or in the garden. We can build customized systems for sun rooms, greenhouses and gardens. Our vertical hydroponic system is a great way to make the most of small, indoor spaces. The system is capable of growing many varieties of herbs, vegetables and fruits. It can provide fresh, organic quality produce for your entire family, office or school. For more information, go to the contact page to reach one of the company’s representatives.
