Hydroponic system of farming is one where plants are grown indoors without soil but rather being fed nutrients in water. This innovative approach makes it possible to have a direct control on the environment factors like nutrients, pH and water. Hydroponics is most advantageous in growing raspberries because it allows year-round production and can be done in small area like greenhouses or home-made systems.

Choosing the Right Hydroponic System

Some of the hydroponic systems include; The major advantage of these hydroponic systems is that: The following are the most popular systems for growing hydroponic raspberries:

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

This system entails a thin layer of nutrient solution passing over the root of the plants. It also favors good oxygenation and nutrient assimilation. However, NFT can be quite problematic because any disruptions to the process can easily negatively impact the plants.

Deep Water Culture (DWC)

In this system the roots of the plants are washed in nutrient solution which is circulated by an air pump that supplies oxygen. DWC is quite simple to install and requires low efforts for its management which is suitable for new growers.

Flood and Drain or known as Ebb and Flow.

This system immerses the plant roots in nutrient solution and then washes it away after sometime. This cycle in turn supplies water for the different plants while at the same time supplying them with oxygen for healthy growth.

Aeroponics

In this system, the plant roots are hang in air and the plant is sprayed with a nutrient solution. Thus, the aeroponic system favors a fast rate of growth and is very conservative in its water consumption but it is very sensitive.

Selecting Raspberry Varieties

Before growing raspberries through hydroponics it is important to consider the growth habits of the varieties and their climatic adaptation. Some popular varieties include:

• Heritage: An everbearing that yields large, sweet berries. It is characterized by rather fast growth and high productivity.
• Tulameen: A summer bearing variety, which has good taste and vigor and can produce flowers from the stem. It prefers to grow in hydroponics.
• Fall Gold: An ever bearing raspberry cultivar that produces fruit of a yellow color and has a sweet taste.

Select varieties that are right for your climate and size depending on the hydroponic system you intend to use.

Growing Conditions

To grow healthy hydroponic raspberries, you need to provide the right growing conditions:

Light

Raspberries need full sun that is they need to be exposed to the sun for about 6-8 hours in a day. If you are growing your plants indoors or in green house then you should use artificial light source known as grow light. Full spectrum LED grow lights are cheap on power and they help in growth of plant.

Temperature and Humidity

Raspberries require a temperature of between 60 and 75 F 15-24 C for optimal growth. Consistent humidity also has to be kept, as high levels cause mold formation on the surface of the item. It is recommended to maintain the level of humidity between 50 and 70 percent.

pH and Nutrient Levels

Hydroponic raspberries have the ideal pH range of 5.5 – 6.5. Always check the pH of your nutrient solution and if it is high, make corrections on the same. A hydroponic nutrient solution that is well balanced and contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium, magnesium, iron.

Planting and Maintenance

Starting Seeds or Cuttings

Raspberries can be propagated through seed or even from a cutting. For seeds, sow them in a seedling tray using a sterile growing mix and then transfer them to your hydroponic growing system. For cuttings, use healthy stem and make it to root in cloning gel or solution before transferring it to the hydroponic.

Transplanting

When your seedlings or cuttings have started to form roots they are ready to be transferred to your hydroponic system and you must make sure they are safely seated.

Pruning and Training

Moderate pruning is helpful for raspberries to develop properly and to bear fruit regularly. Prune out previous year’s canes and train new ones. Training the plants on a trellis helps in increasing airflow and light penetration to the plants.

Supervising and Modifying Nutrients

Check nutrient levels often and add more if necessary. Pay attention to the symptoms that indicate a lack of nutrients: the leaves turn yellow, and it is high time to correct the situation.

Pest and Disease Management

As much as hydroponics minimizes pest and diseases, it’s advisable to check your plants from time to time. Some of the pests that might be a problem for raspberries are aphids, spider mite and whiteflies. To control infestations, always apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Some of the fungal diseases can be prevented provided there is control of air circulation and humidity.

Hydroponic Raspberries.

When grown hydroponically, raspberries take 4-6 months to begin fruiting depending with the type and the environmental conditions. Picking should be done when the berries are fully ripe by being large, round and firm and come off the stem very easily. Do not bruise the fruit or plant during the harvesting process so as to prevent it from being affected.