Most well-known vegetable grown hydroponically in the Philippines

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, where nutrients are delivered directly to the plants through water containing dissolved nutrients. This technique allows for controlled environments and efficient resource usage, making it popular for growing crops in limited spaces or areas with poor soil quality like the urban area.

There are so many veggies, especially leafy vegetables, that can be grown through hydroponics, such as herbs, spinach, chilies, and tomatoes. However, this is the best choice for most individuals who are starting a hydroponic system.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is the most well-known vegetable grown hydroponically in the Philippines. It is cultivated for both commercial and household use by urban gardeners. Due to its easy manageability, high demand, and elevated market price, urban gardeners and practitioners promote lettuce as a more valuable vegetable to grow. Philippine vegetarians are most likely to choose lettuce for their salad dishes and use it as a garnish to enhance the presentation of other food dishes.

"Iceberg and Romaine lettuce are both great choices when it comes to calories - both have less than 10 calories per cup of fresh leaves." - DA-BPI [Lettuce Production Guide by D. Jose]

Lettuce can be harvested 45 to 60 days after transplanting. Since lettuce requires cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C, most lettuce farmers in the Philippines grow it in areas such as Cavite, Baguio, Benguet, and Bukidnon. 

Through a hydroponic system, people in areas with varying temperatures can grow their own lettuce right in their backyard. This method allows for more controlled conditions, making it possible to cultivate lettuce even in localities where the natural temperature might not be suitable.