The Kratky Method is another growing method that I really love to do. It is not as time consuming and a passive hydroponic because there is no circulating water pump needed, or a grow light. As long as you place your container where it can get at least I would say 6 -8 hours of sunlight. You should be good.
So why is it called The Kratky Method? Great question. It is named after Dr. Bernard Kratky. He helped develop this passive hydroponic method. Depending on the container the roots sit in water with nutrients with air in between to give oxygen to the the plant.
I typically use 32oz to 64oz wide mouth mason jars, but it is not necessary. As long as the container blocks out light to defer algae from growing you will be fine. You can be as creative as you want with the covers for the jars.
What types of plants can be grown this way? Glad you asked. The Kratky works best with leafy greens, such as lettuces, spinaches, herbs. Larger plants can be grown like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers in larger containers.
This is a great way to grow more, using less water and space. The basic items needed are,
- Container from a small mason jar to a large 5 gallon bucket or larger. Size really depends on what you want to grow. Ensure that the container is opaque and light does not seep through.
- Lid. There again are various lids that can be used. Making sure that it fits snug to prevent light from growing algae.
- Net Cup. Can be purchased in your local hydroponic store, or on Amazon. The hold the plant in suspension. The roots grow and sit in the water and there is a small space for air between the bottom of the net pot and water.
- Growing medium. There are various growing mediums to use, a few are; Rockwool, Root Riot Plugs, Rapid Rooter Plugs. Again look to your local hydroponic store or online.
- Clay Pebbles to help block light in from the top of the net cup.
- Hydroponic Nutrient. Many people use different nutrients. Here are a few; MasterBlend, Hydroguard, FloraBlend there are more but these are pretty popular. Also you might want to add Cal Mag by Botanicare a specialized calcium, magnesium & iron, plant supplement.
I purchased some cute covers when I first started but I soon realized that I can use various ways to cover my mason jars.
I went to Hobby Lobby to get some scraps from the fabric area, I also used some black duct tape. Your creativity can really shine through with that.
I was running out to time and had to do something quick with my peppers. So this is their temporary home until I find a glue gun for the cloth. Below is the net cup and I cut out the middle so that my pepper plant I started in a Aerogarden would fit in the net cup and then I filled with clay pebbles, also known as Leca.
