When it comes to deciding which crops to grow in a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system, there are several key factors to take into account. The NFT system is known for its ability to provide a continuous nutrient stream directly to the plant roots in a thin film of water, making it ideal for certain types of crops.
1. Lettuce
One of the most commonly grown crops in NFT systems is lettuce. Lettuce thrives in the NFT setup due to its shallow root system and high water content needs. The constant flow of nutrients in the NFT system helps lettuce plants to grow quickly and yield fresh, crispy leaves.
2. Herbs
Herbs such as basil, mint, and cilantro also do well in NFT systems. These aromatic plants benefit from the consistent water and nutrient supply that the NFT system offers, allowing them to flourish and provide a fresh supply of fragrant herbs for culinary use.
3. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and arugula are popular choices for NFT systems. These greens, with their delicate leaves and shallow roots, thrive in the NFT environment, receiving the necessary nutrients for steady growth and robust leaf development.
4. Microgreens
Microgreens, which are young vegetable greens harvested at an early stage, are another great option for NFT cultivation. Their tiny root systems are well-suited to the nutrient-rich water flow in the NFT channels, promoting rapid growth and vibrant colors in these miniature plants.
5. Strawberries
While less common, strawberries can also be grown in NFT systems. The shallow root structure of strawberry plants makes them compatible with the nutrient film setup, producing sweet and juicy berries that benefit from the continuous nutrient supply.
6. Chives
Chives, with their slender stalks and mild onion flavor, are an excellent choice for NFT cultivation. These perennial herbs thrive in the consistent moisture environment of the NFT system, providing a fresh supply of chives for various culinary applications.
7. Watercress
Watercress, a nutrient-dense aquatic plant with peppery leaves, can also be successfully grown in NFT systems. The continuous water flow in the NFT channels keeps the watercress plants hydrated and well-fed, resulting in vibrant green leaves and robust growth.
8. Bok Choy
Bok choy, a staple Asian vegetable with crunchy stems and dark green leaves, is well-suited for cultivation in NFT systems. The consistent supply of nutrients in the NFT setup promotes healthy bok choy growth, yielding fresh and flavorful greens for culinary dishes.
9. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard, with its colorful stems and nutritious leaves, is another vegetable that thrives in NFT systems. The continuous nutrient stream in the NFT channels supports the growth of vibrant Swiss chard plants, providing a nutrient-rich addition to salads and cooked dishes.
10. Pak Choi
Pak choi, a Chinese cabbage variety known for its mild flavor and tender texture, can be grown successfully in NFT systems. The steady supply of nutrients in the NFT setup encourages pak choi plants to develop into healthy, flavorful greens suitable for stir-fries and salads.
11. Mustard Greens
Mustard greens, with their peppery taste and robust leaves, are well-suited for cultivation in NFT systems. The nutrient-rich water flow in the NFT channels provides mustard greens with the essential compounds for vigorous growth and flavorful foliage.
12. Radishes
Radishes, with their crisp and peppery roots, can also be grown in NFT systems. The shallow root structure of radish plants makes them compatible with the nutrient film setup, resulting in quick growth and crunchy, flavorful radishes for culinary use.
