There are six foundational types of systems, each tailored to different crop needs and grower expertise: Hydroponics In Food Production - Meegle

: In the 1930s, Dr. William Gericke of the University of California popularized the term "hydroponics" by demonstrating large-scale tomato production without soil.

: The Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Aztec chinampas (floating gardens) are among the earliest examples of soil-free cultivation.