Hydroponics and vertical farming are no longer niche technologies-they are at the heart of future agriculture. More and more people-from hobbyists to professionals, agronomists to entrepreneurs-are looking for clear, reliable and technical information on how to grow without soil in an efficient, sustainable and replicable way.
That's why this blog was born: a reference point for really understanding hydroponics, without unnecessary simplifications, abstract theory, and confusing information often found online. Here you'll find content based on data, real experience, and advanced technology, designed to grow with you: starting with the basics and gradually working your way up to the more complex topics.
Whether you want to grow at home or design a professional plant, you'll find the answers here.
We'll start from scratch: what hydroponics is, why it works, what the main systems are, and why they are revolutionizing the way we grow.
We will cover nutrients, EC, pH, solution management, LED lighting, substrate choice, airflow, automation and monitoring.
How to design a system, what are the critical factors, how is it different from simple horizontal hydroponics, what are the costs and benefits.
Indoor agriculture is not just about water and nutrients: sensors, data, machine learning and automation are transforming everything.
We'll expose the most common misinformation online-from "magic LEDs" to the idea that hydroponics is "maintenance-free."
We'll put varieties, nutrient recipes, densities, lighting, growth cycles and more to the test. All documented.
Because hydroponics, done right, works.
Because sustainability is not just a word-it's a method, measurable and replicable.
And because people seeking serious information deserve a solid, up-to-date, independent source.
This blog aims to become the most comprehensive resource in Italy (and then in Europe) on hydroponics and vertical farming - a true center of expertise.
To those who want to get started and understand how hydroponics really works.
To those who already grow and want to improve efficiency and quality.
To those who work in the industry and want to understand technologies and trends.
To those who design professional systems or work in vertical farming.
To schools, universities, startups, chefs, agronomists and enthusiasts.
From today we will start publishing articles in a logical order: from the absolute basics, to the most advanced topics that still few people in Italy write about.
And you will be able to follow their evolution, delve deeper, ask questions, and apply each piece of content to your own cultivation - home or professional.
Tomato+ team