subject: Differences In Hydroponic Systems [print this page] Hydroponics (growing plants and food without soil) is gaining a lot of attention among consumers, as more people take an interest in it. As such, a lot of hydroponic systems have come out - each designed to help grow plants in various quantities. Sometimes, these methods are pre-designed and sold as a unit or kit (a great option for beginners); more experienced growers often buy components and design their own systems. Here are a few of the more common applications of hydroponics and how they function.
Ebb and Flow (also called Flood and Drain)
This is the most common system in hydroponics where plants are placed in a growth tray on top of a nutrient container and a pump is used to "flood" these trays with the solution. Excess solution unabsorbed by the roots "drains" back into the reservoir and is recycled. A variation of this is the Drip System, which utilizes a pump to mimic a continual drip of nutrient solution into the growth tray.
Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
In this method, the plant roots are suspended in a constant "film" or flow of nutrient solution, which is sent into one end of the tray by a pump, drains out the other end into the reservoir and is being recycled. This method is great at nourishing roots but this is also seen as too technical and high-maintenance since the roots are not anchored in a medium.
The Water Culture System
The oldest hydroponic systems, and one of the simplest, a platform of planters simply floats in the nutrient reservoir while the roots of the plants dangle in the solution. To oxygenate the system, sometimes, an air pump is added. If you're a beginner, this is an easy as well as less costly way to get started.
The Wick System
This is another very simple method, and no pump is needed. The nutrient solution from the reservoir is drawn by a wick, such as an oil lamp or candle wick, and is absorbed by the roots. This more passive system is low-maintenance, but it can often over-soak the roots, making for a smaller yield.
Aeroponics
This variation of hydroponics is more technical, but very effective. The plant roots have no anchor or medium; exposed to the air, they are continually sprayed with a vapor-mist of solution, making way for quick absorption and loads of oxygenation. When done correctly, this method can generate large, quick-growing plants and lots of fruit.
All of these hydroponic systems are proven methods of growing plants without soil. As you can see, some are more complicated than others, and some more effective. Which method you choose is dependent on your budget, time factor and overall needs.
