What is the process of growing plants only in water called?

The process of growing plants only in water is referred to as hydroponics. This method allows plants to grow without soil, relying instead on nutrient solutions dissolved in water to provide the essential minerals and nutrients that plants need for growth. In hydroponics systems, the roots of the plants are submerged in a nutrient-rich solution, allowing for efficient absorption and faster growth as compared to traditional soil-based cultivation.

The benefits of hydroponics include more precise control over nutrient delivery, the potential for higher yields in a shorter time frame, and the ability to grow plants in areas with poor soil or limited space. Hydroponics also often makes it easier to manage pests and diseases since the growing environment is typically more controlled.

Other options present different aspects of plant cultivation. Aquaculture involves the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms, so while it permeates water-based systems, it does not focus on terrestrial plants. Soilless culture is a broader term that can include both hydroponics and other methods of growing plants without traditional soil, but hydroponics specifically refers to the water-based approach. Horticulture encompasses the science and art of growing plants for food, ornamental purposes, and landscape uses, which can include both soil-based and soil-less methods.