Instead of using traditional agricultural soil, the farmer or gardener uses compounds such as vermiculite, clay pellets, or rock wool to root the plants. To avoid introducing new elements into the plant’s environment, all chemicals utilized must be inert. The water and fertilizer solution is then poured over the support material, allowing the plant to feed on it. Fertilizers, insecticides, and other potentially hazardous chemicals used in traditional agriculture are also utilized less often.