Hydroponic systems : with an emphasis on tomato production in nutrient film technique (NFT)

Abstract

Hydroponics literally means "working water" as hydro means water in Greek, and ponos means labour. It is a system where water and a nutrient concentration are mixed and given to a plant for growth and development, without the use of mineral soil. Inert substrates, culture substrates and organic and inorganic substrates can be used instead of soil. It is also known as soilless culture, and has been around for thousands of years. Over the years soilless culture has advanced technologically and yields increased due to the perfecting of hydroponic systems. This dissertation will cover the beginnings of soilless culture, while leading into the various techniques and systems that are used in hydroponics. The advantages and disadvantages of each system will be discussed. The systems that will be quickly reviewed and explained are nutrient film technique (NFT), variations of NFT, deep flow culture (DFT), drip irrigation, and aeroponics, which all fall under the category of water culture. The substrate cultures that will be discussed are bag culture, rockwool culture and variations of these. The main point of this dissertation will be focused on production of tomatoes using the NFT system. The materials and methods used will be thoroughly examined and explanations given on how NFT is used. NFT is a proven system that if done correctly can be used to improve the quality of tomatoes, increase the yields, conserve water, and can compete and surpass conventional farming in soil.