Hydroponic Systems in Horticultural Production and Public Environment

Description

Entry Requirements: The equivalent of 60 credits in Biology, Horticultural science, Technology or Landscape Architecture. Entry Requirements: The equivalent of 60 credits in Biology, Horticultural science, Technology or Landscape Architecture. Objectives: After completion of the course, the student will be able to: choose and justify his/her choice of a hydroponic system and technical solutions for a specific growing site or cultivation situation. Discuss the environmental impact of hydroponic systems from a sustainability perspective. Discuss methodology for setting up, planting/establishment, maintenance and harvest of hydroponic systems. Describe the properties of relevant substrates used in hydroponic systems. Describe how water and plant nutrients can be regulated in hydroponic systems and be able to calculate water and nutrient requirements. Predict plant responses to various control and regulatory measures in hydroponic systems. Identify critical factors in hydroponic systems, including water quality and the incidence of disease agents, and be capable of prioritising control measures. Apply their knowledge in anticipating, preventing and managing technical disruptions in hydroponic systems. Content: The hydroponic systems referred to in the course are high technology cultivation systems where plant nutrients are supplied in liquid form. The course is an applied course covering biological, technological and horticultural issues. It encompasses both the production of horticultural products and the growing and use of horticultural plants in public spaces. The course also deals with environmental aspects, and principles of plant physiology and technology are integrated. The course deals with a range of areas of application for hydroponic cultivation systems and how these systems can be ajusted according to demands of the plant. During the course, the students build their own hydroponic systems in the greenhouse or outdoors, carry out analyses, regulate water and nutrient supply, take care of the plants, resolve technical problems in the cultivation system and evaluate the results. Great emphasis is placed on the fact that applications in public spaces must be long-lasting and that the horticultural products produced must maintain a high level of quality. Scheduled laboratory work, exercises, group discussions, supervision, presentations, seminars as well as excursions are mandatory.