Questions on the usage of raw river water etc.

by Jin-ho Jeong
(London, UK)

I am a design student who is fond of design possibilities of hydroponic farming and how to make it more inviting, accessible and easier for people to start growing their own crops. And I will be grateful if you could answer some questions to do with the growing.

Is there any merit in growing vegetables out doors such as riversides? Is gentle early summer sunshine a sufficient lighting?

Will river water(city river, such as Thames) be clean enough for the cultivation. If not so is there a form of cultivation which is least susceptible to the dirty water?

Lastly, how long will I have to wait to see the result of a cultivation, if long. If I didn't start the cultivation as a seed but as a ready existing plant how can I see the progress. In other words how can I see if each experiment has failed or not?

Thank you, and I apologies in advance for the hassle. I do feel the guilt of exploiting your good will of QnA, and know that expecting a fast reply is impolite only if your time allows...

I hope this wont inconvenience you too much, and thank you.