Homemade NFT hair mat

To apply the hydroponic method with Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), it is not necessary to use complicated or expensive materials. This popular method is used by hydroponic gardeners because the system provides an even and consistent distribution of water along with nutrients effectively to the plants, leading to higher overall crop yields.

The NFT method is easy to implement and for more effective results, a capillary mat can be added to the system. The NFT system can be purchased at an affordable price at local hobby stores and, as for the capillary mat, it is easy to make if you follow the instructions in this article.

What you’ll need

Plastic gutters
PVC pipe
Flat container a few inches deep
Cheap plastic container
Air pump
Water pump
Capillary mats
Method:

1. The NFT hydroponic growing method is one of the low maintenance types of hydroponic systems, but remember that some of the NFT growing methods come with expensive equipment and some are inexpensive. The mor레깅스룸e expensive NFT methods typically use sophisticated pumps, thermometers and timers so that you are able to accurately calibrate the supply of moisture and nutrients needed for the plants you are growing. With the low-cost NFT method, you simply use water manually. Whichever method you decide to choose, you need to know better and know which method is most suitable for your hydroponic gardens.
2. The basic principle of the NFT method is the use of a very thin layer of nutrient-rich moisture, to which the plants have constant access. Thanks to the constant access to nutrients, which are in water-soluble form, the roots of the plants will more easily absorb the right amount of nutrients to grow. In addition, the constant access to nutrients also increases the yield of the plants, which is why this method is often used.

If you are new to hydroponics, it is advisable to use a capillary mat to make the process more consistent and much easier, especially for beginners. The capillary mat is used because it is permeable and absorbent, so it is able to transfer nutrient-rich moisture directly to your plants.

4. To make a homemade capillary mat, you need to place the capillary mat on the bottom of the container of your NFT hydroponic system. By using a capillary mat, you slow down the exact flow of water so you can maximize the overall nutrient value of your hydroponic fertilizer. If the system is flowing, you could have some circulation as long as the right material is used. The material should always have good absorption, durability and drainage properties so that you get a satisfactory result from your hydroponic system.
5. Old newspapers are the most suitable and economical materials to use as capillary mats, because they absorb water very well and provide the plants with sufficient nutrients. Although it is a good material, its disadvantage is that it reaches its maximum absorption level very quickly and drains excess water easily. Plants in hydroponics need access to oxygen to grow healthy and if their roots get too much moisture, they will suffocate.
6. Although newsprint is not strong enough in wet conditions, it is an inexpensive substitute used for homemade hair mats. It is recommended to use at least 10 sheets of newspaper to create capillary mats, which hold water quite well and allow it to flow upward a bit.
7. Place these sheets of newspaper at the bottom of the NFT tray so that the plants have direct access to the nutrients, allowing your hydroponic system to work effectively. In addition, the newspaper materials also provide a natural acidity that helps normalize the natural tendency of hydroponic nutrient solutions to be alkaline.