Mar 14 2009
Ebb & Flow System
The ebb & flow system of hydroponics is based on the nutrient fluid being pumped into the hydroponics planting container and being allowed to drain back out. This is a great way to grow smaller plants (under 24 inches tall). It is also known as flood & drain.
The ebb &flow system consists of a reservoir to hold the nutrient solution, a small pump to force the nutrient solution into the hydroponics planting container, a timer to turn the pump on and off at regular intervals, tubes to carry the solution to and from the reservoir a container to hold the plants, and growing medium.
The ebb & flow system is a really simple set up. At certain times the solution is pumped into the planting container until the tray is full then the pump shuts off and the solution drains back into the reservoir. Then the ebb & flow system cycle starts again. You have to set the timer so that the plant roots are never allowed to completely dry out.
To set up an ebb & flow system, just assemble the parts you need. A reservoir, this can be something like a plastic Rubbermaid tote box as long as no light can get through. This will prevent algae from growing.
The ebb & flow system uses a submersible pump that will sit in the nutrient solution. Tubes that will carry the solution up to the growing tray and back to the reservoir, these also need to be as dark as possible. You will need a timer to regulate the pump it should have several on and off settings.
For the ebb & flow system planting container you will need a shallow tray that will be able to hold the weight of the plants and the solution. Do not under estimate the weight of the solution. To be used in the ebb & flow system, the tray needs to be very sturdy. It would be a real mess if the container collapsed. It also needs to be dark colored so no light can get through. The plants are held in place using a growing medium. I use small gravel, some people use rock wool to hold the plants.
You will also need to drill 2 holes in the reservoir for the tubes to go through, one to carry the solution to the growing tray and the other to bring the solution back to the reservoir. The outgoing tube needs to reach all the way to the bottom of the reservoir. Use a food grade silicone to seal up any gaps around the tube. If not sealed the right way, your ebb & flow system could get a little messy.
In order for the ebb & flow system to work correctly you will need to drill hole near the top edge for the tube that carries the solution from the reservoir to the growing tray. You will also need to drill a hole in the bottom for the tube to carry the solution away from the growing tray back to the reservoir. You may also want to put an overflow tube into your ebb & flow system just in case!
Once you have everything assembled just put it all together, add your plants and your ebb & flow system is ready to grow!
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