NFT hydro systems
E
NFT System Preparation
stablishing plants in a nutrient film technique (NFT)
hydroponic system has many advantages and will
create faster rooting transitions, eliminating the need
to transplant. This effectively reduces the overall time
needed to grow your crop and increases overall produc-
tion. By spending time learning these methods, you will be
on your way to maximizing yields and overall production
in your modern farm.
There are many reasons to consider NFT systems.
They are generally easy to use and maintain. More
importantly, plants grown in NFT systems generally
thrive due to their constant access to oxygen-enriched
solution and fresh nutrients. They can uptake nutrients
and water freely with little or no stress. The water and
air pumps are left on 24/7.
The power in NFT hydroponic systems is their ability to
provide plants with a consistent delivery of everything
they need to thrive. In an NFT system, a thin film of nutri-
ents and water provides just what the taproots need, and
the nutrient- and oxygen-rich root chamber maintains the
perfect humid environment for the upper aerated roots that
spider web out from each plant’s root ball.
After buying the complete grow kit or parts to design
your own NFT hydroponic grow system, set it up on a level
surface. Be sure the angle of your NFT system allows for
proper drainage and minimal pooling (“film” is a key
word here). It is not good to have water sitting stagnant or
pooling up deeper on one side. Proper drainage is some-
what precise, so spend the time to do it right.
Room Prep
A proper room should be prepared according to the
outcome you desire. If you’re just in there having fun or
for personal produce, maybe you’re not worried about
the mess on the floor or being super clean. However, if
you want laboratory-like cleanliness and organization,
you should plan accordingly and prepare the room with
proper modern farming equipment.
Line the walls with plastic sheeting products that
have black on one side and white on the other. These
products come in large rolls and are easy to install.
They brighten the room and make the garden an easily
controlled environment to work in. The white walls also
make it much easier to keep the room clean day-to-day
and over the long term.
As for equipment, consider having cloning tools and prop-
agation equipment, grow media, various environmental
controls, nutrients, water-quality devices, grow systems,
proper ventilation, and more. Also, be sure to
research flowering tools and enhancers,
harvesting tools and equipment, as well
as processing and post-harvest gear.
These room prep products, among
others, are available at most grow
shops or from garden supply
companies. Just search around
your local areas or online
for hydroponic or modern
growing equipment.
NFT Reservoir Preparation
With an NFT system, think about your set-up and
minimize risks by doing the planning that needs to
occur ahead of time. The NFT system should
be purchased or built and cleaned ahead
of time so you are ready to grow
immediately when you obtain your
seeds or cuttings. You can also
modify any system using air
and water pumps, air stones,
tubing, and drain fittings to
make it more adaptable.
For example, rooting is
much easier if the system
has adjustable drains.
“
The power in NFT
hydroponic systems is
their ability to provide
plants with a consistent
delivery of everything
they need to thrive.
”
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grow cycle