A guide to help you choose between five hydroponics systems.
Hydroponic systems are gaining more popularity among plant enthusiasts due to their sustainable and efficient approach to plant growth. The systems deliver nutrients directly to the roots of the plants through water, making them ideal for growing plants in limited spaces. In this blog, we will discuss how to choose a hydroponics system and we provide insights into which ones are best suitable for your needs.
1. Kratky method
The Kratky method is a hydroponic technique that does not require electricity, pumps or timers to function. In this method, the plant roots are in a water solution with nutrients. The container in which the nutrient solution is a closed container. This limits the amount of oxygen that enters the system. The reduced oxygen levels cause the roots to grow longer and thinner, which allows them to absorb nutrients from the solution more efficiently. The best plants to grow in this system are leafy greens and herbs. Many beginners pick te Kratky method to start out with since it is one of easiest methods to start off with hydroponics.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| – Easy and inexpensive setup – Low maintenance – Suitable for small-scale and home gardening – Ideal for beginners | – Limited to smaller plants – Nutrient solution depletion over time (refill is needed) – Less suitable for commercial scale |
2. Deep Water Culture (DWC) System
The DWC system is one of the most popular hydroponic systems for beginning and experienced growers. DWC uses floating rafts in oxygenated water using an airpump. The roots of the plants will be in the nutrient water all the time. Most of the time there is an air pump that provides oxygen to the plants. The plants are in holes of cups at the top of the reservoir. This system accelerates growth due to the fast uptake of oxygen and nutrients.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| – Easy to setup and maintain – High oxygen levels – Constant access to nutrients – Suitable for growing smaller and larger plants | – Higher initial setup costs – Requires electricity and air pumps – Requires regular monitoring |
3. Drip System
The drip system delivers the nutrient solution to the roots of each plant in a slow dripping action, which ensures the system uses a small amount of water. This is done by a network of tubes that deliver the water to the plants, that allows control over the nutrient delivery. The solution then flows through the growing medium and back into the reservoir. It is highly customizable and ideal for more experienced and commercial growers who have larger growing operations.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| – Precise nutrient delivery – High level of automation – Suitable for most plants | – Higher initial setup costs – Requires a reliable water irrigation system – Requires regular monitoring and adjustment of nutrient levels and pH |
4. Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) System
In an NFT system plants grow in cups. These cups are placed in a channel or tube that allows for the water to flow past the roots using a circulating system. The water is rich in nutrients and flows over the roots of the plant. The crops sit in small openings on top of an enclosed channel. Pumps push nutrient water from a reservoir into the channels. NFT is popular for both commercial and home hydroponic farmers. The system is ideal for smaller plants with shallow root systems.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| – Efficient use of water and nutrients – High oxygen levels – Suitable for most plants | – Higher initial setup costs – Requires electricity and air pumps – Requires regular monitoring and adjustment of nutrient levels and pH – Less suitable for larger plants |
5. Aeroponic System
In an aeroponic system, plant roots hang in the air in a chamber in a closed-loop system. The roots are sprayed with a mist of the nutrient solution at intervals. This makes it highly efficient and does not need to use much water. However, the setup and maintenance are more complex, making it suitable to more experienced growers or people who like a challenge. Often, this setup is used in vertical towers.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| – Efficient use of water and nutrients – Optimal oxygen levels – Suitable for most plants – Space efficient if using vertical towers. | – Higher initial setup costs – Requires electricity and misting systems – Aeroponics systems in general can be leaking water more easily |
Which hydroponics system to choose?
When choosing between different hydroponics systems it is essential to consider your level of experience, your budget, and the type of plants you want to grow. See the blog: Hydroponics for Beginners: Five plants to start with. For beginners or hobby enthusiasts, the DWC system or Kratky is an excellent choice due to its simplicity. More experienced or professional growers may prefer the drip system or NFT system for greater control over nutrient delivery. The aeroponic system is highly efficient, but the complexity makes it better suited for more experienced growers.
Conclusion
Hydroponic systems are sustainable and efficient approaches to plant growth while offering many benefits to plant enthusiasts. By considering the different types of hydroponic systems and your specific need, you can choose the best hydroponics system for your plants and budget. Are you convinced to start? Masterblend hydroponic nutrients work great in all types of hydroponics systems and are to be ordered through the following link: Shop.
I love this summary. It is just what is needed for beginners wanting to understand why so many methods exist,