Hydro Systems

Hydroponics systems are used in preference to soil. Growth and yields are on average at least 25% more! Generally, hydroponic systems can be divided into 2 categories:

Passive Kits or systems, often called pot culture, which are generally fed manually by hand.
Active Kits or systems, of various design, in which the nutrient feed is actively delivered to the plant by some automatic means, usually a pump.

Ebb and Flow

Ebb and Flow is also known as Flood and Drain. Plants grown in this method are often supported in pots, filled with clay pebbles, which are placed on a tray. This tray is regularly flooded, soaking the clay pebbles with nutrient solution and then allowed to drain back into a holding tank. This cycle is repeated several times a day. When the nutrient drains away fresh air and oxygen are drawn to the root zone of the plants. Highly efficient and easy to manage method of soiless gardening.

Nutrient Film Technique

Commonly known as NFT. The plants rest on a flat but sloping tray or channel, often without support or using Rockwool cubes. The nutrient solution is simply pumped around the system with the roots bathed constantly during day light hours and switched of during dark periods. The system is quick and easy to install and provides fast growth rates.

Do It Yourself Parts

For those who wish to devise and create their own systems, we have a range of DIY options available.

Aeroponics

Aeroponics is a highly effective method that involves suspending the plant roots in a darkened sealed chamber, where they are misted with a very fine particulate nutrient mix. Due to the high oxygenation level in such a system rapid growth rates can be achieved. Similar management issues to NFT.

Drip Irrigation

Nutrient feed is pumped from a reservoir via drippers to plants usually supported in pots, Rockwool cubes or slabs. The excess nutrient may then be recirculated or allowed to drain away. It is possible to use this method to feed plants in individual pots giving maximum flexibility.

Pot Culture

Pot culture is the cheapest and simplest method of growing hydroponically. This is ideal for beginners. Simply fill a suitable pot with a soiless medium and fill a bottom tray (or aqua tray) or saucer with nutrient solution by hand. The nutrient will reach the plant using capillary action in the first stages.