Hydroponic systems are used to grow plants without soil. Contrary to popular perception, it has a long history dating back to 1600s. Since then, the process and techniques have been refined to the point that now hydroponic culture has become a mainstream research tool. Disciplines as varied as biology and space travel employ the techniques of hydroponic culture in research and development.

In late 1600s, experiments proved that it is indeed possible to grow plants without soil. This discovery sparked an interest in the technique and by l865 a system of growing plants in aqueous solution was developed. This technique is known as Solution Culture. It is still used to grow plants using a variety of solutions.

One of the most ardent promoters of hydroponic systems was Professor William Gericke. He started researching the techniques of solution culture at University of Columbia and by 1929, made his research public. He is also credited for coining the name “Hydroponic “for his system of soil less agriculture in 1937. His ideas became very popular after the publication of his book “Complete Guide to Soilless Gardening” in 1940.