Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) Systems

The Nutrient Film Technique is a popular commercial hydroponic system.

Plants are grown in channels and a pump continuously forces the nutrient solution onto the growing channels, then it drains back to the reservoir at the end of the channel and sent back to the beginning of the system again.

Pros:

• Space efficient and Easy to inspect roots for a sign of disease
• Recirculating system means less waste
• Plentiful oxygen flow

Cons:

• Pump failure of any kind can completely destroy your crop
• Roots can become overgrown and clog the channels

Water Analysis

A water analysis is a very important first step for any hydroponic system, regardless of type and size. If the water is to hard (high salt content), a Reverse Osmosis System must be used. A water analysis tests for the following: Nitrate-Nitrogen, Ammonium-Nitrogen, Phosphate, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Sodium, Sulfate, Fluoride, Chloride, Carbonates, Bicarbonates, pH, EC, Aluminum, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Copper, Molybdenum, SAR, Alkalinity(mg CaCO3/liter), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Hardness