Ebb and flow is one of the most common hydroponic designs utilized by gardeners. It is also called the flood and drain system and is liked by growers because of its ease of use, reliability and low startup costs.
The gardening technique consists of arranging tanks and pumps so they create a closed system. A reservoir which contains solution is generally located above a grow reservoir holding an inert material and flowers. According to a timing system water is umped from the above tank to soak the crops and development medium. Any solution that is not absorbed by the roots or held in the medium is collected in a reservoir. When the water reaches a predetermined level in the lower tank it is pumped back to the over head tank and the process continues.
Ebb and Flow Designs can be Simple Set Ups
- simple to operate because only one tank of solution has to be regulated
- nutrient water gives all the food herbs require for cultivation
- watering and draining schedule determines how much oxygen it receives
- designs which gardeners use to keep a regular flooding schedule can be complicated relying on the size and complexity of the set
Flood and Drain Techniques Allows Roots Oxygen
- alternating exposure to fresh air and minerals makes crops grow rapidly and produce huge buds
- exposure times depend on the volume of solution in the design, the cultivation medium, and the grow tank size
- pumps can be set up to run during the day or once a day