Final answer:
Hydroponics is used to grow a range of crops, specifically lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, and ornamental flowers, due to its ability to produce high-quality produce under controlled conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydroponics is a soil-less cultivation process where plants are grown in a water-nutrient solution. This innovative farming method allows for the production of crops without the need for traditional soil, which can be highly beneficial where arable land is scarce or where soil conditions are not ideal for agriculture. A variety of crops are primarily produced via hydroponics, including leafy greens like lettuce and herbs, as well as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, and a variety of ornamental flowers. Vegetables and crops grown hydroponically are often found in supermarkets and are favored for their controlled growth conditions, which can result in higher-quality produce.
Due to the precise control over nutrients and water, hydroponics is especially advantageous for scientific research where studying plant nutrient deficiencies and developing resilient crops is crucial. Moreover, hydroponic culture benefits from being able to bypass many soil-borne diseases, reduce the use of pesticides, and provide year-round crop production, particularly in controlled environments like greenhouses and indoor farming setups.