As counterintuitive as it may seem, it is possible to grow plants without soil. The most common soil-less growing process is known as hydroponics, and involves growing plants in a nutrient-rich solution of water. By allowing more oxygen to surround the plants roots, plants can absorb the dissolved nutrients at a much faster rate than they are able to when planted in the dirt.

This all-you-can-eat process makes plants grow considerably faster than they would while planted in the ground or a soil-filled container. Some gardeners dislike hydroponics precisely because of how fast their gardens grow, and the resulting attention the plants demand. The speed of growth and the ability to grow plants indoors is one reason this process is so attractive to those who abuse the system to grow illegal marijuana plants.

Water, Water Everywhere

Casual gardeners might be wise to stick with traditional methods of growing their favorite plants and vegetables, as hydroponics requires skill and a level of commitment. For those willing to do the research and stick with the program, the benefits can be many and varied. Indoor hydroponics gardening is ideal for those who live in climates inhospitable to the sustained growth of their favorite plants.

Those who advance beyond the basic ebb-and-flow design of a hydroponics system may well want to consider an aeroponics system. Not even water is necessary when growing plants in this fashion, just a nutrient-rich moist spray that is continually applied to the organism's roots. Do your research before embarking on any of these advanced gardening techniques to make sure that you are prepared for what you are getting yourself into.