The nutrient solution used to fill the pond should be
well-balanced and suited to the plants being grown. Water
supplies with high levels of unwanted minerals such as
sodium make for nutrient solutions that need more frequent
replacement than those made using high-quality or reverse
osmosis water supplies because these elements will build
up over time. All nutrient solutions can then be managed
by checking the EC and pH, then either adding more nutri-
ent concentrate to bring the EC up or adding water to lower
the EC. Acid can be used to adjust pH. Keep in mind that
while some raft systems work on a principal of topping up
with nutrient solution to a predetermined level as required
during crop growth, others are run as nonadjustable
systems where no additions of water or nutrients are added
to the system throughout the crop’s life. After harvest in the
latter type of systems, the nutrient solution is replaced and
new plants are installed for the next crop.
ALONG WITH NUTRIENT film technique (NFT),
solution culture incorporates many innovative
variations of float, raft, raceway, pond, and
deep flow technique (DFT) systems.
Float and DFT systems for indoor gardening are easy
to construct and require minimal attention once set up
properly. These can be used as a small separate system
in an indoor garden to produce lettuce, herbs, and salad
greens requiring a different nutrient balance and EC to
many other flowering and fruiting crops. Small float systems
are also great low-cost educational tools for students that
allow regular observation of root system development and
offer some practical experience with hydroponic methods.
PROACTIVE
PROTECTION
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Maximum Yield
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