Hydroponics is an advanced technique that is a method of growing plants without soil, where plants are instead grown in nutrient-rich water solutions. It is a form of soilless cultivation that relies on providing all the necessary nutrients directly to the plant roots through the water, allowing for precise control over the growing conditions such as light and temperature and optimizing plant growth.

In hydroponic systems, plants are typically grown in containers or channels, with their roots submerged in the circulating nutrient solution. This system has its own advantages and is suitable for different types of plants and growing environments.

1.     One of the key benefits of hydroponics is that it allows for more efficient use of water and nutrients compared to traditional soil-based agriculture.

2.     It also eliminates the need for soil, which can carry pests, diseases, and weeds, reducing the need for pesticides and herbicides.

3.     Additionally, hydroponic systems can be used to grow plants in areas with poor or contaminated soil, or in urban environments where access to arable land is limited.

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4.     Hydroponics is used for growing a wide variety of crops, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, and even some fruiting plants.

5.     Including home and hobbyist gardening setups fulfillment this system is commonly used in commercial agriculture, as well as in research and educational settings.

However, hydroponic systems do require careful monitoring and management of nutrient levels, pH, temperature, and other factors to ensure optimal plant growth. They also typically require a higher initial investment for setup compared to traditional soil-based systems. Nevertheless, hydroponics offers an innovative and sustainable approach to growing plants, with the potential for higher yields, reduced resource consumption, and year-round production regardless of weather conditions.

A system for growing lettuce in a 1000 sq. ft. setup needs much equipment that describes as follows-

One-Time Setup Cost of Hydroponic Farming:

1.     Polyhouse shelter- Rs 1,20,000

2.     Pipes - Rs 17,0000

3.     Stand platform - Rs 20,000

4.     Tank- Rs 19,000

5.     Water pump – Rs 10,000

6.     Net cups- Rs 20,000

7.     Water cooler- Rs 12,000

8.     Water filter and quality checking instruments – Rs 15,000

9.     Labor cost- Rs 10,000

The total cost of a one-time setup of hydroponics in 1000 sq. ft. is between Rs 396,000 to Rs 450,000.



Cost of per season Cycle:

Therefore, the cost in 1000 sq. ft. per cycle for lettuce in hydroponic farming is as follows:

     1.    Electricity- Rs 6,000 (2 Months)

     2.     Seeds- Rs 4,000

3.     Fertilizer- Rs 4,000/ Month

4.     Maintenance- Rs 2,000/ Month

5.     Packing and transportation- Rs 5,000

The total per cycle cost is Rs 21,000.


Total Profit:

Here are the results for a one-cycle crop production like a lattice on a 1000-square-foot area:

1.     Total production- 1640 kg

2.     Waste- 200 kg

3.     Total left- 1440 kg

4.     Value in the market- Rs 40/kg

5.     Value of yield- Rs 57,600

Total earning per cycle investment

Profit margin- the value of total yield Rs 57,600 – per cycle cost 21,000 = Rs 36,600/cycle.

The profit margin of hydroponic farming in India is Rs 36,600/cycle for 1000 sq. ft.

Total yearly income will be Rs 219,600.


This data describes and give a view of how hydroponic works but the cost of installment may vary according to the company. If you are able to make set it up by yourself cost installment will be very but it needs expertise in hardware that reduces initial cost by up to half. You can take training from the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and you can visit the already-installed hydroponic set up near you. Do better study before the start of work.