There are many different hydroponic cultivation systems and we give examples of some of the main types

 

NFT (Nutrient Film Technique)

One of the most commonly seen hydroponic systems, it uses controlled drips of water and nutrient fertiliser to feed plants as it flows down the centre of the channels. The water and nutrient fertiliser is then recirculated from the end of the channel back to the top.

 

DFT (Deep Flow Technique)

Hydroponic CultivationThe Deep Flow Technique is a modification of the NFT but uses a reservoir of water and fertiliser solution in which the plants sit.  Water is pumped in at one end, flowing across the channel and feeding the plants.

 

DWC (Deep Water Culture)

Hydroponic CultivationThe Deep Water Culture System is one of the simplest and easiest systems to create. It has been used on an industrial scale across many different countries to great success. The plants are housed on a floating station with a water and fertiliser solution below, housed in a tank. The solution is aerated or pumped around the tank to oxygenate the water.

 

 

Ebb & Flow (Flood & Drain)

The Ebb & Flow system pumps either water or fertilised water from a tank reservoir up to a separate tank, tray or container where the plants are situated. They are allowed to ebb in the flooded water to allow the plants to absorb the water. The pumping process will oxygenate the water to some degree.

The water is then drained back to the tank reservoir once the plants are saturated and the process will repeat after a certain period of time, which can be specified according to the plants needs.

 

What do the plants grow on?

Throughout the history of hydroponics many different systems have been used while utilising different growing media including sand and gravel. The commonly used rockwool is a material made from glassfibre and invented in Denmark. Different aggregates can be used such as Perlite, vermiculite, clay pebbles, growstones or polyurethane. The main point of hydroponic growing is that is a soilless-culture.

Hydroponic Cultivation

Basil growing hydroponically in various growth supports. PC CAFRE

Hydroponic Cultivation

Mustards growing in recycled carpet material. Pic clicked at visit to Growing Underground.


What do we use at AuSome GrowSome?

AuSome GrowSome CIC aims to use the hydroponic technology, of Deep Water cultivation, Nutrient film technology and most importantly develop cultivation systems which can be adapted to our various learners.

We are also passionate about making our systems as environmental friendly as possible and will test out growth supports  such as coconut husk, bamboo fibres, or reused carpet or mattress material.

We are also aiming to draw as much energy as possible using the solar panels.

Our horticulture expert constantly strives to apply the most environment friendly options and optimisation process.

To learn more about the Hydroponics, click here.

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