Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sterilizing growth trays used to hydroponically grow crops. The growth trays comprise a plurality of openings for holding soil and germinating seeds in the soil. The plurality of openings having a profile that allow the roots of the growing plant to extend into the bottom tub. The methods comprising applying at least one chemical cleaner to trays, drying the trays to a desired percent moisture, and heating the trays using a dielectric apparatus to kill at least one pathogen to produce sterilized growth trays. A method of hydroponically growing crops in the sterilized growth trays.

Abstract: A system for hydroponically growing plants, comprising: a top seed tray configured to sit on a bottom tub. The top tray comprises a plurality of openings for holding soil and germinating seeds in the soil. The plurality of openings having a profile that allow the roots of the growing plant to extend into the bottom tub. The tub is configured to hold an aqueous mixture of water and nutrient solution for the growing plants and comprises a lip around the top circumference and at least one air diffuser for causing a turbulent flow of the water mixture that is contact with the roots of the growing plants. A method of growing plants using such a container is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method together with enabling apparatuses is disclosed for the rapid controlled growth of vegetable and similar crops in a hydroponic system. The method includes control of light, minimization of exposure to pathogens, control of temperature of ambient air and the water in the system, nutrients, pH and other growth factors such as transfer between ponds as well as specially designed floating flats and related devices.