A technique that allows you to grow hydroponically without electricity, pumps, or wicks of any kind.
Kratky Method. I've been told the Kratky Method is also good for fast growing vegetables like tomatoes. It's not the right time of year to be growing leafy greens, but I have some heat tolerant varieties that I'm experimenting with in the shade. The Kratky Method appeals to me because it is so easy. The hydroponic system requires mixing solution on a regular basis, and AP requires monitoring. Once filled and planted there is nothing else to do with the Kratky Method. As the solution is used the root grow down a bit further. If you are not familiar with the Kratky method of hyroponics, it differs from standard hydroponics in that it is a non-powered system. This method of hydroponics does not use air stones, pumped water or water changes. It’s a good system for just about anyone but especially for off-grid. A plant needs light, water, nutrients, and oxygen to grow. The Kratky method provides all this in a very simple way. You add water with all the mineral solution needed into a container with a net pot and some rock wool (or a growing medium of your choice), plant your seed and let it grow. This is where the Kratky method shines. It’s a technique that allows you to grow hydroponically without electricity, pumps, or wicks of any kind. In fact, you don’t even have to change your reservoir or add nutrients. It’s as close to a completely “hands off” growing technique as I’ve ever seen. Hydroponic Lettuce–Kratky Method. This method uses no air pumps or water circulation pumps. In a nutshell: A shallow tub is filled with water and nutrients. A piece of styrofoam with 9 2” holes is cut to allow it to sit on top of the tub. It does not float on the water in the tub, but sits on top of the tub perimeter. I had mentioned in a previous post wanting to try the Kratky method which is a form of Hydroponics that requires only a one time setup and “no maintenance”. I was poking around the garage this morning and realized I have just about everything I need so I decided to give it a shot. The kratky method can be used for growing other types of plants. Not just lettuce. It is inexpensive in that it does not require electricity – no water circulation and no air to splash the root base. Give it a try. I think you will be pleased with the results.
http://chicogardens.blogspot.com/2013/06/kratky-method.html http://www.queendranchgardening.com/kratky-method-of-hydroponics/ http://northernhomestead.com/the-kratky-hydroponics-way/ http://www.epicgardening.com/the-kratky-method/ http://www.usefulramblings.org/?page_id=4065 https://unknowngardener.wordpress.com/2013/09/02/the-kratky-method-of-hydroponics/ http://www.usefulramblings.org/?page_id=4065
what is kratky method