Course Description
Your plants are probably the most recognizable component of your aquaponics system and definitely the most valuable in terms of revenue, whether you plan on going commercial or not. This microcredential begins by reviewing the basic structure and function of plants in general. This will form the basis of the environmental conditions you need to control (and why) so that your plants flourish. The appearance and diagnosis of plants who do not receive the proper nutrients is also a key component of diagnosing the health status of your plants and what to do about it.
There is a lot to learn here, but whether you have a green thumb, have extensive experience in the garden, or are beginning with little more than faint memories from your high school biology class, the curriculum will guide you stepwise through the exciting, interesting and complex world of plants. In aquaponics, you can expect your plants to behave much like they do when grown in soil, but when grown in naturally, nutrified water with a complex assortment of microbes, their growth rate is enhanced and your fascination with your plants and the system as a whole will encourage your curiosity. Extra readings and learning tools along the way are meant to help build your library for future resources and references.
Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:
- Describe the basic functioning and biology of plants
- Recognize plant requirements for nutrients, light, and moisture in an aquaponic and soilless production
- Identify the common signs of plant nutrient deficiency
