In hydroponics, planting is the critical first step of establishing vegetable crops in a soil-less system. This stage focuses on introducing young, viable plants or seeds into the hydroponic environment.

In hydroponics, "bedding" refers to placing the germinated seedlings or starter cubes into their permanent growing sites within the system. This second step securely positions the young plants so their roots can access the nutrient solution and receive proper support and aeration.

Transplanting is the step of moving seedlings from their propagation site into their final growing positions within the main hydroponic system. This process carefully establishes the plants to ensure their roots are optimally exposed to the nutrient solution for sustained growth.

Grooming/growing is the ongoing maintenance phase where plants are nurtured to maturity. This involves critical tasks like pruning, training, and adjusting nutrient and light levels to direct plant energy toward healthy, productive growth.

Harvesting is the final, productive step of selectively cutting or picking mature vegetables from the hydroponic system. This cycle-concluding stage yields the clean, soil-free crops for consumption, after which the system is often cleared and reset for the next planting cycle.