Hydroponic System

Deep Water Culture System

Deep Water Culture is a method where the plant root is suspended directly into water nutrient
solution which is constantly oxygenated by an air pump.This system does not rquire soil. Soil has two
major use for the growth of the plant:
(i) It provides essential nutrients to the plants.
(ii) It provides the support by gripping the roots tightly.
The two conditions can be replecated by providing nutrients directly in the water and providing a
raft system for support, typically made from styrofoam.
Materials Required:
(i)Aquarium or air tight container
(ii)Styrofoam
(iii)Netted or plastic cups
(iv)expanded clay
(v)Air Pump and Air Stone
(vi)Water Nutrient Mixture

System Assembly:
(i)Cut the styrofoam to size to fit the reservoir.
(ii)Cut the holes on raft for styrofoam to fit.
(iii)Fill the reservoir with nutrient- water mixture and adjust the PH according to the plant being
sown.
(iv)Attach air tubing to air stone and place it in the reservoir.

Instructions:
(i)When your plants have used around half the mixture, you can refill it.
(ii)Adjust the PH and check the ph of the mixture on a regular basis.
(iii)Be sure not to use fertilisers.
(iv)Harvest the vegetables as they reach maturity.
(v)Scale the system as per the requirements of the four members of the family.
(vi)If planting is done everyday from the start, there will come a time when one will be able to
harvest the vegetable daily.
Lighting:
Lighting can be done if required. Led lights can be used. Ensure proper lighting is received for 12-16
hours a day. Depending upon the space available, one can decide whether lighting is required.