Ebb And Flow Hydroponics
Pots are filled with an inert medium that does not function like soil or contribute nutrition to the plants but which anchors the roots.
The concept behind the ebb and flow hydroponics is that intermittent flooding occurs in timed cycles that allow the growing medium to oxygenate. The plants benefit from this short dry period. It allows for a greater intake of oxygen which forces their roots to grow. The more a plant’s root system grows, the better it can absorb nutrients.
How Does An Ebb And Flow Hydroponics System Work?
A basic ebb and flow hydroponics system consists of a growing container, a nutrient solution reservoir, which contains a pump that’s attached to a timer.
The nutrient solution is sent up to the growing container through a hole in the bottom of the grow bed. This is done at timed intervals. The level of the solution is regulated by an overflow tube, which empties into the reservoir below.
When the liquid in the growing container rises to the level of the overflow tube the nutrient solution overflows back into the reservoir. When the timer turns the pump off, the nutrients drains slowly back into the reservoir through the original tubing.
Why Choose Ebb And Flow Hydroponics?
Flood and drain systems are simple to build. No specialized components are needed to build an ebb and flow hydroponics system.
A simple ebb and flow hydroponics system can be compact and can be scaled to meet the gardeners' needs.
Another advantage is that the nutrients are recycled many times before having to be replaced.
Plants that don’t do so well in other hydroponic systems, such as cucumbers, beans, tomatoes, do very well in an ebb and flow system.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Ebb And Flow Hydroponics?
Ebb and flow hydroponics aren’t for everybody. Here are a few downsides:
Dependent on electricity and a pump
Expanded systems are more complicated to build
PH levels are harder to maintain.
Algae and pathogens can develop.
Getting the correct cycle timing right for different plants.