Growing Technique¶
The hydroponic method determines the physical design, pump schedule, and sensor placement of the entire system. A technique has not yet been finalised.
Options Considered¶
NFT — Nutrient Film Technique¶
A thin film of nutrient solution flows continuously along slightly angled channels. Plant roots rest in the channel bottom, partially submerged.
- Pros: Simple plumbing, low water volume, well-documented
- Cons: Pump failure kills roots quickly; not ideal for large fruiting crops
- Best for: Leafy greens, herbs, lettuce
DWC — Deep Water Culture¶
Plant roots are suspended in a deep oxygenated reservoir. An air pump + airstone keeps DO levels high.
- Pros: Very high yields, forgiving reservoir volume
- Cons: Large water volume; temperature harder to control
- Best for: Lettuce, cannabis, larger plants
Kratky (Passive DWC)¶
A static reservoir with an air gap between water surface and roots. No pump required.
- Pros: Zero moving parts, lowest maintenance
- Cons: No active monitoring integration; not scalable
- Best for: Single-plant experiments
Ebb & Flow (Flood and Drain)¶
A grow bed is periodically flooded and then drained back to the reservoir on a timer.
- Pros: Works with a wide range of substrates; good root oxygenation
- Cons: More complex plumbing; timer-critical
- Best for: Tomatoes, peppers, fruiting plants
Decision¶
TBD — technique will be selected once grow space and target crops are confirmed.