AGRI 131 - Introduction to Hydroponics

PROGRAM: Agriculture
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 3
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 2
LAB HOURS MIN: 2
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Spring, 2019

Introduces and examines fundamental principles of hydroponic systems. Emphasis is placed on the fundamental principles of design, construction and maintenance of a hydroponic growing system.

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

Describe the components of a hydroponic growing system.
Evaluate different hydroponic systems including horizontal vs vertical systems, continuous flow vs spray or fog systems.
Investigate the differences between hydroponic systems grown under natural and artificial light.
Analyze the basic concepts of nutrient availability and uptake.
Describe sources of plant nutrients suitable for hydroponic systems.
Explain how to monitor and maintain nutrient levels in solution.
Evaluate plant species that are adaptable to hydroponic growing systems.
Investigate methods planting and supporting plants in a hydroponic system.
Examine career opportunities in hydroponics.

COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -

Describe the function of hydroponic growing system components
Size pumps, lines, filters and grow beds for a system
Design a small hydroponic growing system for a greenhouse
Design a small hydroponic growing system using artificial light
Explain how natural light differs from artificial light from different sources
Explain how oxygen is supplied to roots in continuous flow vs spray or fog systems
Describe the methods used to measure water hardness, electrical conductivity, pH, and nutrient content
Describe the vegetable, microgreen and herb species are best adapted to hydroponic systems
Visit hydroponic growing facilities

GRADING POLICY

A	90-100
B	80-89
C	70-79
D	60-69
F	0-59

Course Addendum - Syllabus (Click to expand)

Costs

Payments

AGRI 131 - Introduction to Hydroponics