Kratky Method – Pros And Cons

The Kratky Method is a variant of the ebb and flow method that doesn’t require any pumps, timers, or other electrical equipment. This method has gained popularity in recent years as people search for more simplified hydroponic systems. However, there are some drawbacks to the Kratky Method that you should be aware of before deciding if it’s the right choice for you. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the Kratky Method so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for your garden.

Tell Me About The Kratky Method

Kratky specializes in horticulturist research at the University of Hawaii. In 2004 he wrote the book, “A suspended-pot hydroponic system”. Kratky’s method came into existence at that time. This method is easy to get into hydroponic production. No power, no pump, or expensive equipment. You can start by simply taking home some simple household goods and visiting a gardening store. The most basic configuration requires a 1-gal-on food-worthy container and top, water, hydro plank growing medium (like perlite and rock-wool) and a mesh growing pot.

How Does Kratky Method Work?

Kratky hydroponics can be constructed in many different ways though they all operate on the same foundation. Kratky hydroponic systems are without power and have neither air or water pumps in operation. When plants absorb nutrients they drop the water level of the reservoir, which provides oxygen and water into the system. Depending on the kind and size of the plant, it can be harvested when the nutrients run out. When plants don’t harvest, nutrients can increase as required. When water enters reservoirs it should be kept open for the plants roots to breathe.

Kratky Method Pros And Cons

Like any growth technique Kratky methods have strengths and downsides. It is worth pursuing these before committing your resources to Kratkky’s method of hydroponic farming.

PROS:

The Kratky method is simple to set up, requiring little in the way of materials or equipment.
It is a low-maintenance option for hydroponic farming, as once the system is set up there is no need to actively pump solution through the system.
The Kratky method is well-suited to growing leafy greens and herbs, as the roots are not confined to a small space and have plenty of room to spread out.

CONS:

The Kratky method is not suitable for crops that require a large root system, such as tomatoes or cucumbers.
The Kratky method relies on evaporation to circulate the nutrient solution, so it is not suitable for climates with high humidity.
The Kratky method can be less efficient than other hydroponic systems in terms of water and nutrient usage.

Setting Up A Kratky Hydroponic System

The Kratky technique for growing hydroponic gardens is straightforward: simply acquire a water tub, hang your plants, and enjoy their development.

The following are things to consider as you decide what materials to use.

Water Tubs:

Any large, sturdy container can become a Kratky hydroponics system. Common choices include black plastic barrels or IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) totes. When using one of these repurposed materials, be sure to thoroughly clean it out before starting your garden. You may also want to drill drainage holes in the bottom.

Net Pots Or Mash Baskets:

These will hold your plant’s roots in place while allowing them to access the solution.

Hydroponic Growing Medium:

This is what will support your plants’ roots in the net pots. The most popular choice is coco coir, although you can also use perlite, vermiculite, or Rockwool.

pH Kit:

You’ll need this to test the pH of your nutrient solution and make sure it’s in the proper range for your plants.

Nutrient Solution:

This is what will feed your plants. You can make your solution or purchase one from a gardening store. If you make your own, be sure to use distilled water and follow the recipe carefully.

pH Adjusters:

You’ll need these to raise or lower the pH of your solution, as needed. You can buy pH adjusters from any gardening store or website.

Timer:

You’ll need this to automatically turn your pumps on and off.

Pumps:

These will circulate the nutrient solution through your system.

Tubing:

This will carry the nutrient solution from the pump to the plants.

Threaded Rod:

This will support your net pots.

Nuts And Washers:

These will be used to attach the net pots to the threaded rod.

If you do not have any of the above objects, you can find them all online or at your local hardware store.

Now that you have all the materials, you can set up your Kratky hydroponics system.

1. Drill drainage holes in the bottom of your water tub, if necessary.

2. Fill the tub with enough nutrient solution to reach the desired height of your plants.

3. Suspend your net pots from the threaded rod, using nuts and washers to secure them in place. The net pots should be submerged in the nutrient solution.

4. Plant your seeds or seedlings in the net pots, using your chosen growing medium.

5. Hang the tub from a sturdy support, such as a shelf or table. Make sure the tub is level so that the nutrient solution does not spill out.

6. Attach the pumps to the tubing and connect them to the net pots. Be sure to use enough tubing to reach all of the plants.

7. Set the timer for the pumps, and enjoy watching your plants grow!

The Kratky method is a great way to get started with hydroponics because it is so simple and inexpensive.

Kratky Method For Growing Leafy Greens

You can start your growing season by planting high-quality seeds outside of the hydroponic system. Usually, people will sprout their seeds in individual cups. By germinating several seeds at once, you are more likely to end up with a strong seedling. After you identify the strongest plant, thin out the cups so that each cup has only one seedling. Your seeds are ready to be transplanted into the hydroponic system when they develop enough roots to fill the sprouting cup.

Make sure the water chemistry, and water levels, as well as the growing cups’ height, are all correct before transplanting the seedlings. After you transplant the seedlings, make sure a few centimeters of the root are hanging out of the water. This will ensure they get enough oxygen and prevent them from drowning.

The plants will usually grow on their own accord at this stage. Periodically check your garden’s roots, water chemistry, and water levels, then make necessary adjustments. After the plants have grown large enough, they are ready to be picked. You’ve just harvested your first Kratky method crop!

Conclusion:

The Kratky method is a great way to get started with hydroponics because it is so simple and inexpensive. With this method, you can grow healthy plants with little effort. However, there are some drawbacks to this method as well so be sure to do your research before getting started.

Thanks for reading!