Non-circulating hydroponic plant growing system

摘要

The non-circulating hydroponic kit incorporates a water impervious container capable of holding a variable depth of nutrient solution and a solid container lid with a plurality of apertures through which a multitude of root-impervious tubes or frusto-conical containers can be inserted and supported. The lid stops visible light from entering the plant holding container by fitting over the container, and the reusable tubes can be of a multitude of lengths. Preferred lengths are from 5 to 9 inches long. The tubes have open tops and a plurality of apertures in the side walls, preferably 1/4 to 1/2 inches in diameter. The tube may have a plurality of vertical foils extending inward from the side wall and downward to the lower end to deter roots from spiraling around the side walls. Nutrient solution is placed in the container and the tubes are filled with a particulate growing medium. At the start of the growing period, the tubes are is immersed to a depth of 1 to 2 inches in the nutrient solution which wets the non-immersed media by capillary action. Eventually, the nutrient level is lower than the bottom of the plant tubes, but the roots are able to gather water and nutrients at this stage of growth. Thus, only the initial application of nutrient solution is needed. No additional watering or fertilization is needed. This system works best with a short-term crop such as lettuce.