Cornell University Hydroponics Program

Our Urban Agriculture program is sponsored by Cornell University and provide students the opportunity to learn plant science and Hydroponics. We provide a natural lab for students to learn STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) in a hands-on, experiential way.

Offered as an elective, this course teaches students how to grow plants using hydroponics - without soil. Traditionally, plant roots seek out nutrition from the soil. Using the Kratky hydroponics method, plants grow vertically, suspended above a reservoir of nutrient-rich water that serves as the roots’ food source. Leafy green food such as spinach, herbs and lettuce are known to grow well, and fast, using the Kratky hydroponics method. Topics   include controlled environment agriculture, hydroponics, growing conditions, nutrition and health, and advocacy for access to quality food.

By the Winter of 2025, we have received a grant to build a state-of-the-art Hydroponics Laboratory.