NFT system for cultivating marijuana (film nutrient technique)

The film nutrient technique (NFT) represents one of the most significant advances in the field of Hydroponic culture systems, an agricultural practice that dispenses with the soil to grow plants, nourishing them exclusively with mineral -rich solutions. This system is characterized by its ability to feed plants with a thin layer or "film" of water enriched with essential nutrients, which constantly flows on the roots exposed within inclined gutters, thus ensuring optimal oxygenation and access to nutrients. If you are not familiar with this type of crop, we recommend you read this article about What is hydropony So you can understand everything we will discuss later.

Since its conception, the NFT system has gained considerable popularity between commercial farmers and gardening enthusiasts at home due to their efficiency in the use of water and nutrients, as well as by their scalability and ease of automation. Its innovative design not only allows precise control over the root environment of plants, but also facilitates the production of high quality crops in small spaces and with less manual labor compared to traditional soil cultivation methods. The relevance of the NFT system in modern hydroponics is undeniable, and its application continues to expand, promoting more sustainable and efficient cultivation practices in resources.

What is the NFT system?

The NFT system, acronym for Film nutrient technique, it is a hydroponic method that is based on the continuous flow of an aqueous solution rich in nutrients on the bare roots of the plants, which are housed in gutters or tubes. The solution flows in a very thin layer, allowing the roots to have constant access to both nutrients and air oxygen. This system eliminates the need for a solid culture medium, since the plants are sustained in holes made in the upper part of the gutters, allowing the roots to hang freely within the current of the nutrient solution.

The history of the NFT system dates back to the experiments carried out in the 1960s by Dr. Allen Cooper in England, who was looking for an efficient technique for hydroponic culture that improved the aeration of the roots and the efficiency in the use of nutrients. Since then, the system has evolved significantly, going from being a scientific curiosity to one of the cornerstones of commercial hydroponics. Over the years, the NFT has been perfected to maximize production in greenhouses and urban vertical agriculture operations, where space is limited and control over growth variables is crucial.

The simplicity and effectiveness of the NFT system have made it a favorite for both commercial producers and hydroponic cultivation fans. Its modular design and its ability to climb make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from small gardens at home to large agricultural facilities. With the growing interest in sustainability and food security, the NFT system remains relevant and continues to adapt to new technologies and sustainable cultivation practices.

NFT system components

The NFT system consists of several essential elements that work together to create a controlled and efficient environment for plant cultivation. Next, the key components and the function of each are described:

• Gutters or cultivation channels: They are the containers where plants grow and where the nutritious solution flows. They are usually made of PVC or plastic and have a slight inclination to allow the movement of water. Gutters must be opaque to avoid light and prevent algae growth.
• Irrigation deposit: It is a container that stores the nutritious solution. It must be large enough to supply an adequate amount of solution to plants and maintain the stability of nutrients. It must also be opaque and corrosion resistant.
• Water pump: This component is essential to recirculate the nutrient solution from the tank to the gutters. The pump must be adequate capacity to ensure a constant and uniform flow of the solution.
• Pipes: They connect the pump with the gutters and distribute the nutritious solution. They must be of a resistant material that does not react with the nutrient solution and that can support water pressure.
• Supports or support structure: They are the frames that hold the gutters in their place. They must be strong and stable to support the weight of the gutters full of plants and nutritional solution.
• Return system: It is the set of channels or pipes that return the excess nutrient solution to the tank. This allows the solution to be reused, saving water and nutrients.
• Filters: They are used to keep the nutritious solution clean, eliminating particles and avoiding obstructions in the system.
• PH meter and EC Meter: They are critical tools to monitor and adjust the quality of the nutritious solution, ensuring that plants receive the correct balance of nutrients and an adequate pH.

By selecting materials for each component, it is important to consider durability, corrosion resistance and compatibility with the nutrient solution. Materials should also be safe for plant cultivation and should not release toxic substances in the solution. Energy efficiency and maintenance ease are other key factors to consider when choosing components for an NFT system.

NFT system operation

The NFT system (nutrient technique) operates under a relatively simple but ingenious principle. The nutritious solution is pumped from a storage tank to the gutters or channels where the plants are located. The solution flows on the roots of the plants in a thin layer or "movie", hence the name" film "in the technique. This nutritious solution film provides the roots for constant access to essential nutrients, as well as oxygen, since the layer is thin enough so that the roots are in contact with both the solution and with the air. After passing through the gutters, the solution not absorbed by the plants is drained back to the nutrient tank to be reciring.

Advantages and disadvantages of the NFT system

Advantages:

• Better oxygenation of roots: The direct exposure of the roots in the air ensures high oxygenation, which is crucial for the healthy growth of plants. The roots need oxygen to perform breathing, which is vital for nutrient metabolism and absorption.
• Efficient nutrient absorption: Since the nutritious solution is in constant movement, the nutrients are distributed uniformly, allowing all the roots to have the same opportunity to absorb what they need. This avoids the accumulation of nutrients in an area, which could cause toxicity or deficiencies.
• Disease prevention: Good aeration and the absence of solid substrate reduce the risk of soil -related diseases, such as pathogenic fungi that thrive in humid environments and with little aeration.
• Efficient use of water and nutrients: The recirculation of the nutritious solution means that less water and nutrients are used compared to traditional culture methods. This is not only more sustainable, but also reduces operating costs.
• Uniform and controlled growth: The NFT system allows precise control over growth conditions, resulting in a more uniform and predictable growth of plants.
• Ease of monitoring and adjustment: Since the roots are accessible and the nutritious solution is easy to sampling, it is easy to monitor and adjust the conditions to optimize plant growth.
• Efficient use of water and nutrients: The NFT system recirculates the nutritious solution, which reduces waste.
• Lower risk of soil diseases: Not using soil, many common diseases associated with traditional gardening are eliminated.
• Accelerated growth of plants: The constant availability of nutrients and oxygen can result in faster growth.
• Space savings: Vertical or level design allows more space to be cultivated.
• Automation: The system can be easily automated, which reduces the necessary labor.
• Monitoring and control: It allows precise control over the environment of the roots and the nutrition of plants.

Disadvantages:

• Energy dependence: It requires electricity for the pump, which can be a problem in case of energy cuts.
• Technical maintenance: It may require more advanced knowledge to solve problems and maintain the system.
• Initial investment: The initial cost can be higher compared to other simpler hydroponic systems.
• Vulnerability to system failures: A bomb failure or electricity supply can quickly cause the death of plants.
• Limitations in the type of plants: It is not suitable for plants that require a large volume of Hydroponic substrate or that are particularly large or heavy.

Comparison with other hydroponic systems:

• Marea Systems (EBB & Flow): NFT is continuous and uses less water, but tide systems can be better for larger plants.
• Drip systems: NFT is more efficient in the use of water, but drip systems can be more suitable for a broader range of plants.
• AIRCLICAL SYSTEMS: NFT is less technical and easier to maintain, while airland can provide faster growth but requires more precise control and more frequent maintenance.
• MEHA SYSTEMS: NFT is more complex and expensive, but it offers better control over nutrients and plant growth compared to the simplest and least expensive rich system.
• DWC hydroponic culture system: Unlike NFT, the DWC dip the roots in water constantly, ideal for robust plants. NFT is better for fast culture cycles and requires less space.

The NFT system is particularly suitable for short and rapid cycle plants, such as lettuce, aromatic herbs and some strawberry varieties. Its efficiency and ease of use have made it a popular method in urban agriculture and the commercial production of vegetables.

Assembly of a NFT system step by step

Building a basic NFT system requires planning and acquisition of the necessary components. Next, the steps for assembling a NFT system together with practical advice are detailed:

Step 1: Space planning and design

• Evaluate the available space For the NFT system, considering the light, temperature and protection against the weather if it is outdoors.
• Measure the area to determine the size and number of gutters that can be installed.
• Design a system scheme, planning the disposition and the number of levels or rows of gutters.
• Select the plants that will be cultivated, which will influence the distance between the planting holes and the capacity of the nutrient system.
• Calculate the inclination necessary for gutters to ensure an optimal flow of the nutritious solution.
• Decide the height of the gutters to facilitate maintenance and harvest.
• Plan access For maintenance, ensuring that all parts of the system are easily accessible.
• Determine the tank capacity of nutrients based on the number of plants and gutters.
• Consider electrical installation and safety, especially if the system will be mounted in an interior space. 

Practical tips: 

• Use design software or an application to draw the system plan and make adjustments easily.
• Investigate specific requirements of the plants that are going to be cultivated to adapt the design to their needs.
• Consult with experienced experts or growers to obtain feedback on the proposed design.
• Consider energy efficiency and the environmental impact when selecting the materials and planning the design.
• Foresee future growth and the possible expansion of the system to avoid having to make great changes later.

Step 2: Acquisition of materials

• Buy Gutters or Cultivation Channels Suitable for the NFT system, preferably opaque material to avoid algae growth.
• Acquire a nutrient tank proper size for the volume of the system and that is opaque to reduce the light that promotes the growth of algae.
• Select a water pump with the proper capacity for the size of the system and the length of the gutters.
• Obtain pipes and accessories necessary to connect the pump with the gutters and for the return system.
• Buy or make supports For gutters that can sustain the weight of the full system.
• Acquire filters To keep the nutritious solution clean and avoid obstructions.
• Get pH and EC meters to monitor and adjust the quality of the nutrient solution.
• Buy additional materials such as clamps, connectors, and tools for assembling the system.
• Consider the purchase of a timer If you want to automate the pumping cycle of the nutritious solution.
• Select construction materials If it is planned to manufacture elements of the system, such as the support structure.

Practical tips: 

• Compare prices and quality of materials between different suppliers to find the best offer without compromising quality.
• Verify the specifications of the products, such as the capacity of the pump and the resistance of the materials, to ensure that they meet the needs of the system.
• Read opinions and reviews of other users about materials and equipment to identify possible problems and advantages.
• Buy some spare parts, such as additional pipes or connectors, to have by hand in case of necessity or for future system expansions.
• Recycle or reuse materials when possible to reduce costs and environmental impact.
• Make sure all materials are safe for use in cultivation systems and do not release toxic substances in the nutrient solution.
• Plan future maintenance When choosing materials and equipment, opting for those that are easy to clean and maintain.

Step 3: Mounting the support structure

• Design or select a design for the support structure that adjusts to the dimensions and number of NFT system gutters.
• Choose resistant materials For structure, such as galvanized metal, aluminum or reinforced plastic, which can support the moisture and weight of the system.
• Build or assemble the structure Following the design, making sure it is stable and level.
• Install the structure in the designated area, verifying that there is enough space around for the maintenance and observation of plants.
• Ensure that the structure has the right inclination to allow the flow of the nutrient solution by gravity.
• Reinforce unions and load points to prevent wear and guarantee durability.
• Verify that the structure is level using a bubble level to ensure a uniform flow of the nutrient solution.
• Make adjustments if necessary To ensure that all gutters are adjusted correctly and are safe in the structure.

Practical tips:

• Use corner protectors and tapas at the sharp edges of the structure to avoid lesions during maintenance.
• Consider future expansion When designing the structure, allowing the addition of more gutters or levels if you want to increase the capacity of the system.
• Include adjustable wheels or legs If a mobile structure is desired or if the height and leveling is needed easily.
• Protect the structure against corrosion Applying paint or sealants if the materials are susceptible to oxide.
• Make sure the structure allows easy access to gutters and nutrient tank to facilitate maintenance and monitoring tasks.
• Document the assembly process with photos or notes to facilitate problem solving or to replicate the design in future facilities.

Step 4: Installation of the gutters

• Place the gutters on the support structure, making sure they fit well and are stable.
• Adjust the inclination Of the gutters to allow an optimal flow of the nutritious solution, usually a slope of 1 to 3% is recommended.
• Verify that gutters are level in its length to avoid water stagnations and ensure a uniform flow.
• Set the gutters to the structure using clamps or supports to prevent displacements.
• Cut and prepare the holes For plants at the top of the gutters, making sure they are properly spaced according to the type of plant.
• Install the ends of the gutters with plugs or connectors to direct the flow of the nutrient solution and avoid spills.
• Connect the gutters to the return system If applicable, to recirculate the nutritious solution back to the nutrient tank.

Practical tips:

• Use a rule or laser level To ensure that the gutters are perfectly aligned and level.
• Test water flow Before placing the plants to make sure there are no leaks and that the water flows correctly.
• Cover the gutters with an opaque lid or material to avoid direct sunlight and reduce algae formation.
• Leave additional space at the end of each gutter for future expansions or adjustments in the system.
• Consider cleaning and maintenance when installing the gutters, making sure that all areas can be easily achieved.
• Mark plants holes before cutting to guarantee a uniform distribution and avoid errors.
• Check the connections periodically to make sure they are still safe and there are no signs of wear.

Step 5: Irrigation system configuration

• Install the water pump in the nutrient tank, making sure that it is properly submerged and fixed in its place.
• Connect the pipes From the pump to the gutters, using safe connections to avoid leaks.
• Place drippers or microaspersors At the beginning of each gutter, if this method is used, to distribute the nutrient solution uniformly.
• Secure a return system For the nutritious solution that is not absorbed by plants, directing it back to the nutrient tank.
• Install filters In irrigation lines to prevent the obstruction of the emitters and keep the solution clean.
• Regulate the pump flow and the irrigation frequency, if a timer is used, to provide plants with the adequate amount of nutritional solution.
• Check that the irrigation system works correctly, without dry or over-switched areas in the gutters.

Practical tips:

• Perform irrigation tests Before planting to ensure that the entire system works as expected and adjust as necessary.
• Use dark colored pipes or cover them to avoid exposure to light and reduce the growth of algae within them.
• Maintain the nutrient solution in motion to avoid sedimentation and ensure that nutrients are well mixed.
• Monitor water pressure so that it is adequate for the system and does not cause erosion in the culture medium or damage to the roots.
• Include closing valves to be able to isolate system sections if maintenance or repairs are necessary.
• Labeling pipes and connections to facilitate identification during maintenance or problem solving.
• Consider the possibility of installing a monitoring system To control the flow, pressure and composition of the nutrient solution in real time.

Step 6: Return system installation

• Place a return channel or pipe at the end of the gutters to collect the nutrient solution that has not been absorbed by plants.
• Ensure that the return channel Have an adequate slope towards the nutrient tank to facilitate the flow by gravity.
• Install a filter on the return channel To capture any residue before the solution returns to the tank.
• Connect the return channel to the nutrient tank, using safe connections to avoid leaks.
• Verify that the return system does not cause splashes o Excessive turbulence in the nutrient tank, which could affect oxygenation and the mixture of the solution.
• Check that the return system is working properly, making sure that the nutritious solution flows without interruptions to the tank.

Practical tips:

• Use transparent pipes For the return system it can easily identify any blocking or accumulation of sediments.
• Maintain the accessible return system to facilitate regular cleaning and maintenance.
• Incorporate a control valve In the return system to manually adjust the return flow if necessary.
• Make sure the nutrient tank has enough capacity to handle the volume of the return solution without overflowing.
• Regularly inspect connections and joints of the return system to detect signs of wear or damage.
• Consider the installation of a second pump in the nutrient tank to recirculate the solution and maintain well distributed nutrients and oxygen.

Step 7: System test

• Fill the nutrient tank With water to perform an initial test without nutritious solution, to verify the pond of the system.
• Light the pump and observe the flow of water through the gutters and the return system to ensure that there are no leaks or blockages.
• Adjust the inclination of the gutters If it is observed that the water does not flow correctly or if there are stagnations.
• Check all connection points of pipes and gutters to make sure they are well sealed and there are no water losses.
• Observe the operation of the return system, making sure that the solution returns to the nutrient tank without problems.
• Check the pump and timers (if used) to confirm that they operate according to the established time intervals.
• Evaluate the efficiency of the filtering system In the return to verify that there is no accumulation of waste that can cause obstructions.
• Make necessary adjustments in the water pressure and in the configuration of the timers to optimize the flow and distribution of the nutrient solution.

Practical tips:

• Perform the test for a long time to make sure that the system is reliable and does not present long -term problems.
• Mark with adhesive tape or markers any area that presents leaks to facilitate its repair once the system is emptied.
• Take detailed notes of any adjustment made to have a record of the optimal operating conditions.
• Be prepared to make minor adjustments, since it is common that they need after the first test.
• If possible, perform the test with plants to observe how they respond to water flow and make adjustments accordingly.
• Consult with an expert or with the community of Hidroponía If persistent or unexpected problems are found during the test.

Step 8: Settings and calibration

• Calibrate Ph and EC meters Before adding the nutritious solution to ensure precise readings.
• Adjust the nutritious solution at the recommended pH and EC levels for the type of plants that will be cultivated.
• Establish the pump timer For adequate irrigation cycles, based on the water needs of plants and system capacity.
• Check the inclination of gutters Once again with the nutrient solution circulating, and make the necessary adjustments to ensure constant flow.
• Control the temperature of the nutrient solution, since extreme temperatures can affect the absorption of nutrients and the health of plants.
• Adjust the height and position of the lights (If used indoors) to provide adequate light intensity and spectrum for plant growth.
• Monitor the system for several days to observe the behavior of the nutrient solution and make fine adjustments in the pump or in the inclination of the gutters if necessary.
• Document all adjustments carried out to establish a reference point for the operation of the system and facilitate the resolution of problems in the future.

Practical tips:

• Use a registration sheet To write down the adjustments and readings of PH and EC daily, which will help to understand the dynamics of the system and make proactive adjustments.
• Be patient and make minor adjustments, since drastic changes can destabilize the system and negatively affect plants.
• Consult guides or nutrient tables Specific for the type of plants that are cultivated, since each species has unique requirements.
• Consider the use of an automated system of monitoring and adjustment of pH and EC to maintain optimal conditions continuously.
• Verify the uniformity of the flow of the nutrient solution In all gutters to ensure that all plants receive the same amount of nutrients.
• Be attentive to plants signs, such as changes in the color of the leaves or in the growth rate, which may indicate the need for adjustments in the nutrient solution or in the culture environment.

Step 9: Placement of plants

• Select plants or marijuana seeds Suitable for the NFT system, taking into account its adult size and nutritional requirements.
• Prepare Cultivation cubes or sponges that the plants will hold, making sure that they are properly hydrated and with the adjusted pH.
• Insert plants or seeds in the buckets or sponges of cultivation, placing them in the holes previously made in the gutters.
• Make sure the roots of plants Have contact with the nutritious solution that flows through the gutters so that they can absorb nutrients properly.
• Space the plants evenly along the gutters to avoid competition for light and nutrients and to allow adequate growth.
• Monitor plants During the first hours and days to ensure that they are established correctly and show no signs of stress.

Practical tips:

• Start with young plants or seedlings instead of seeds if a rapid establishment and initial growth is sought.
• Avoid too large plants transplantation, since they can have difficulty adapting to the NFT system and can obstruct the flow of the nutrient solution.
• Use a network or support If plants are grown that tend to grow a lot in height or that have heavy fruits, to keep them upright and distribute the weight uniformly.
• Observe the development of roots and make adjustments in the position of the plants if necessary to optimize their exposure to the nutrient solution.
• Maintain a growth record and the health of plants to quickly identify any problem and to act accordingly.
• Be careful when manipulating plants To avoid damaging roots or stems, which could affect their development and productivity.

Step 10: Final monitoring and adjustments

• Observe plants growth daily to detect signs of nutritional deficiencies or diseases.
• Adjust the nutritious solution As necessary, based on the growth stage of plants and pH and EC readings.
• Check the irrigation system to make sure that all plants receive a uniform distribution of the nutrient solution.
• Control and adjust environmental conditions such as light, temperature and humidity to optimize plant growth.
• Practice and transplants If some plants become too large or start shading others.
• Keep a detailed record of all adjustments and observations to better understand the needs of plants and improve cultivation practices.
• Program regular inspections of the system to prevent and solve problems such as leaks, obstructions or equipment failures.

Practical tips:

• Use a cultivation calendar to program maintenance and monitoring tasks.
• Be proactive in solving, addressing small problems before they become big.
• Consult with other specialized growers or forums In hydropony to obtain advice and solutions to common problems.
• Experiment with minor adjustments To see how plants respond and learn from experience.
• Maintain system cleaning, since a clean environment is less prone to diseases and pests.
• Get meticulous with hygiene, especially when manipulating the nutritious solution and plants, to avoid cross contamination.

NFT system maintenance and management

• Daily inspection of plants to detect stress signs, diseases or nutritional deficiencies.
• Daily verification of the flow of the nutrient solution and the absence of obstructions in the gutters.
• Daily monitoring of pH and EC levels in the nutrient solution and adjust if necessary.
• Weekly review of the pumps and filters to make sure they work correctly and are free of waste.
• Weekly cleaning of the gutters to prevent the accumulation of algae and sediments.
• Monthly replacement of the nutritious solution to provide plants a fresh supply of nutrients.
• Monthly inspection of all electrical and mechanical connections to prevent system failures.
• Monthly deep cleaning of the nutrient tank to avoid the accumulation of salts and other waste.

Solution of common problems and how to avoid them:

• Flooded roots or lack of oxygen: Make sure the nutrient film is thin enough to allow the oxygenation of the roots.
• Algae growth: Keep the nutrient tank and gutters covered to minimize exposure to light.
• Obstructions in gutters: Perform regular cleaning and filter the nutritious solution to eliminate particles that can cause blockages.
• Unbalances of pH and nutrients: Monitor and adjust the nutrient solution frequently to maintain optimal levels.
• Leaks or spills: Regularly inspect the connections and seal any escape immediately to avoid losses of nutritious solution.
• Pump failures: Have an backup pump and periodically check the main pump to ensure its continuous operation.

Practical tips:

• Maintain a maintenance kit that includes pH and EC meters, calibration solutions, basic tools and common spare parts.
• Record all maintenance activities and observations in a culture diary to track the health of the system and plants.
• Train in the foundations of hydroponics To better understand how to handle and maintain the NFT system.
• Establish a maintenance routine and adhere to her to prevent problems before they arise.
• Use safe cleaning products for plants and hydroponic systems to avoid contamination of the nutrient solution.