aeroponie

Aeroponie, also known as aeroponics in English, is a soil-less plant cultivation method in which plant roots are suspended in air and periodically misted with a nutrient solution. In a typical aeroponic system, the rooted plant portions hang in a closed or semi-closed chamber while a pump delivers the nutrient-rich water through fine spray nozzles, creating a mist that surrounds the roots. The above-ground portions remain supported, often by mesh or foam, enabling oxygen exposure to the roots.

Systems vary, but common designs use high-pressure pumps to produce fine droplets and precise irrigation cycles. Controllers, sensors, and filtration help maintain appropriate nutrient concentration, pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen. Some variants employ ultrasonic foggers or alternative misting approaches, but the core concept remains: roots receive nutrients from the air through mist rather than from soil or solid growing media.

Advantages typically cited include high water-use efficiency, rapid plant growth, and the potential for space-saving vertical farming. The absence of soil reduces many soil-borne pests and diseases, and the controlled environment can enable year-round production and consistent yields. Aeroponics is explored for research, greenhouse production, urban farming, and, in some cases, space missions.

Challenges include higher initial setup costs, energy demands for pumps and climate control, and reliance on power and infrastructure. System maintenance is important to prevent nozzle clogging and microbial buildup, and disruptions can quickly affect plant health. Suitable crops are often leafy greens and herbs, with experimentation continuing for fruiting vegetables under controlled conditions.