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Pros and Cons of Perlite in Hydroponics: Is it For You?
What is perlite? Perlite is ore that has been superheated in a kiln until it expands like popcorn. This makes it very lightweight and gives it air holding capacity—a real benefit for growers trying to keep root zones aerated. Perlite has been used for...
Get the Scoop on How to Grow Hydroponic Fennel
Like many of our herbs, fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) originated in the Mediterranean area. Greece has a rather significant history with fennel; the ancient Greek word for fennel is “marathon”—as in the Battle of Marathon, which took place in a field of fennel after...
How to Apply for the USDA Microloan as an Upstart Farmer
Freaked out about funding? So you've decided to start a farm. You're buzzing with excitement and anxiety about getting started, and maybe you've hit a few hitches in the planning process. You're worried about getting the funding you need, and the world of financing...
Upstart University Cursos En Español
Estimados estudiantes de habla hispana de Upstart University, A partir de hoy Upstart University ofrece cursos en español, además de en inglés. Al equipo de Upstart le encanta crear y ofrecer formación y educación para todos vosotros: ¡los futuros agricultores del...
How to Grow Classic Rosemary in Hydroponics
Rosemarinus Officinalis: the every chef's herbRosemary is a shrubby plant native to the Mediterranean areas. It's drought tolerant, scrappy, and its fragrance and taste have been enchanting every kind of dish for centuries. A classic herb, rosemary has now been...
How to Choose Hydroponic Fertilizers
Direct-delivery of nutrients is the soul of hydroponics Without soil, the nutrients that plants need to live and thrive must be delivered directly to their roots (or occasionally, their leaves). Doing this in a practical, effective way is the goal of any hydroponic...
Introduction to the Aquaponic Raft System
If you're considering aquaponics (a form of hydroponics incorporating fish and their waste as fertilizer), then you've almost certainly heard of raft or DWC (deep water culture) systems. Aquaponic raft systems have been grandfathered into the industry as one of the...
How to Build a Simple Hydroponic Dutch Bucket System
In this post:Intro to Dutch BucketsVariations on DesignVideo - How to Build a Hydroponic Dutch Bucket SystemParts NeededSteps to BuildingYour Own Hydroponic Dutch Bucket SystemDutch buckets as "fragmented media beds"Hydroponic Dutch bucket systems (Bato bucket...
How to Maintain a Y-Filter in a ZipFarm
Cleaning your irrigation components will help your farm run better for longer and reduces the risk of leaks, floods, broken pumps, and other farm issues. Today we're showing how to maintain a Y-filter (or canister filter), and the pump skimmer. The Y-filter (or...
Get the Tips & Guidelines on Growing Mustard Greens
Brassica juncea, or mustard greens, is another member of the brassica (a relative of kale and cabbage). Although its precise origins are unknown, there’s evidence that mustard is likely native to Eastern Europe and Asia, as is reflected by its common names—India...