Wick System
The wick system relies on capillary action to transfer nutrient solution from the reservoir to the roots.
This is accomplished by using a cloth wick that readily absorbs the nutrient solution and sends it to the medium.
With the wick system, there are no moving parts which makes it a very easy hydroponic system to set up.
The low cost of this “passive” hydroponic system also adds to the popularity.
What can go wrong?
Well, not much really. As long as there is sufficient nutrient solution in the reservoir, your plants should be very happy.
Your only real concern is that there is enough water being transferred to the root system.
Method #1 Potted plants
This is a very easy method to do that I have used many times with great success.
Supplies:
drill
3/4″ drill bit
reservoir w/lid
air tubing
air stone
2gal bucket
medium
air pump
2-3ft cloth wick (rope) 1″ thick
Step by Step
Step 1)
Drill 3/4″ hole in center of 2gal bucket.
Step 2)
Insert about 1ft of cloth wick. Measure and cut enough wick to reach the bottom of the reservoir. (about 1-2ft)
Step 3)
Unravel the section of wick (rope) in the bucket and fill 2/3 of the bucket with an absorbent soiless mix.
Step 4)
Insert the plant into the bucket and fill the remaining space with clay or diatomite rocks.
Step 5)
Connect the air stone to the air pump and place the air stone into the reservoir.
Step 6)
Fill the reservoir with nutrient solution and plug in the air pump.
Step 7)
Insert the opposite end of the wick into the reservoir and watch your plants grow.
Keys to Success
To start the plants off take about a half full pitcher of nutrient solution and fill the bucket.
Let the extra nutrient solution drain back into the reservoir.
This is to ensure that the dry medium doesn’t take nutrient solution from the roots and dry them up.
The key to making the wick system work is to make sure that your plants receive enough nutrient solution.
I usually use my index finger to touch the medium and make sure that it is moist.
This “passive” system works very well, but compared to “active” systems such as ebb & flow this system may seem “slow”.
Don’t worry about this, because your plants are only “drinking” nutrient solution as needed.
How – To Pages:
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Aeroponics
This is considered to be a superior method of growing plants.
Clones
A worthwhile skill for any gardener.
Drip System
Yet another option for growing great fruits and vegetables.
Ebb & Flow
This is very easy to do and it provides outstanding results.
H2O
Preparing water can be a complicated process.
Hand Water
This method is easier than you might think.
Nutrient Film Technique
A great way to growing high quality fruits and vegetables.
Water Culture
A relatively new hydroponic method which is growing in popularity.
