Last week, our Community Garden Class talked about hydroponics and setting up a simple NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) system! Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using water, nutrients, and a growing medium, bypassing the need for soil. This technique offers many benefits, such as faster plant growth and more efficient nutrient uptake. However, it also comes with challenges like initial setup costs and the need for diligent maintenance to prevent equipment failure.
This class was taught by Ryan Smith, Hoonah Indian Association’s Local Foods and Greenhouse Coordinator. He has been working with hydroponics for over a decade, and has set up over a hundred systems, including the greenhouse hydroponic system being built in Hoonah! To learn more about the Hoonah Greenhouse and his experiences, I interviewed the local hydroponics expert! Before his project in Hoonah, he worked on projects like the 430 sq ft greenhouse in Angoon’s school, which includes six grow towers and 20 Dutch buckets. For the Hoonah greenhouse, Ryan chose a combination of aeroponics and drip systems. The drip system, particularly the Dutch buckets, is excellent for vine crops, while the aeroponic towers are perfect for leafy greens and herbs. This setup maximizes space and efficiency, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce.
The hydroponic expert himself, Ryan Smith, describing the different systems to community members.
I was also able to interview some of the class attendees! Judy Oliver, a community member, attended to learn something new and expressed interest in trying hydroponics at home. She’s considering using NFT or Deep Water Culture systems to grow tomatoes and cucumbers! Another participant, who preferred to remain anonymous, plans to experiment with an aquarium/aquaponics system, where the fish waste provides nutrients to the plants and the plants purify the water for the fish! Both found the entire session ‘cool’ and were excited about the possibilities hydroponics offers.
Left Photo: Judy Oliver drawing the NFT system set-up for her own home! Right Photo: Community members holding up the PVC pipes in order attach it to the stand.
There are many systems that fit under the practice of hydroponics – and the best one for you depends on how you plan on using it! Below, there is an attachment that was our class handout, and they show how the different systems look, what they need for set-up, and some comments about it. Setting up a hydroponic system typically requires some basic equipment: a reservoir, air pump, air stone, tubing, and channels. Depending on the system, you might also need a water pump. Using the right growing medium is essential. Options include rockwool, coconut coir, perlite, clay pebbles, peat moss, and more. Each medium has its pros and cons, as listed on the handout, so choose one that fits your needs and environmental considerations!
Hydroponic nutrient solutions provide the essential nutrients plants need. These solutions typically include a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and trace elements like iron and zinc. Adjusting the nutrient solution’s pH (optimal at 5.8) and electrical conductivity (EC) ensures plants can absorb nutrients effectively. Monitoring and maintaining the system is crucial to prevent failures and ensure optimal plant growth. Regularly clean your hydroponic system to prevent algae and debris buildup. Use food-grade hydrogen peroxide, unscented bleach, or other recommended cleaning products. Additionally, provide adequate ventilation and light, especially if growing indoors, to create a healthy environment for your plants.
Left Photo: Spinach seedlings sitting in Net pots, with rope connecting the pots to the water stream; making this system a combination of the NFT system and wick system! Right Photo: The final product being lifted to the HIA: Environmental building’s porch!
Thank you to those who attended, I hope you learned something new about hydroponics! Next week, August 16th, we will be discussing methods of harvesting, storing, and preserving. For those who attend, look forward to taking home some kale!
Hand-out from Class!
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