Hydroponics Producer
Hydroponics producers grow crops, typically in greenhouses, using a water solution that is rich in nutrients instead of soil. They must choose cost-effective hydroponic plants each growing season and oversee the maintenance and growing of those crops. Additionally, they oversee maintenance of hydroponic and greenhouse equipment, order necessary equipment and seeds, and maintain accurate records and propagation journals.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Choose plants that can be grown cost effectively
- Develop a system and time schedule for planting
- Oversee maintenance and ordering of necessary equipment and seeds
- Maintain accurate records and propagation journals
- Prune and trellis crops
- Develop business relationships with local chefs to supply locally grown produce
- Determine what nutrients are needed by the plants being produced
- Find ways to make hydroponic systems more efficient
- Monitor greenhouses for the presence of pests and diseases
- Obtain and manage an inventory of nutrients and other supplies for the hydroponics operation
- Collect and submit water samples for testing and interpret results
- Manage the daily harvest of crops
- Ensure that plants are grown and harvested in ways that adhere to food safety standards
- Maintain and clean hydroponic systems
- Find ways to market produce throughout the year
- Compile an annual budget and potential income report
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- plant science
- floral design
- computer skills
- mathematics
- biology
- business
Education/Training Required:
An associate degree in agriculture or horticulture is beneficial. Additionally, farming or gardening experience is needed, but no degree is required.
