Hydroponic Drip Irrigation System - Questions And Answers

Nowadays, the concept of hydroponic drip irrigation system is slowly but surely gaining ground among garden enthusiasts.  You probably have many questions about it, which this article regarding the drip system can hopefully help you to understand better.

What Is a Drip System?

Among the many types and subtypes of hydroponic techniques, you will discover that the drip irrigation system is the most widely used since it is relatively simple but highly effective in plant cultivation.  Basically, plant nutrition is provided on a pre-determined basis via a timer that controls the submerged pump.  Said pump is connected to a main tube that branches off into smaller tubes through which plant nutrients are delivered unto the base of each plant.  The nutrients will trickle into the grow media, into the roots and finally into the reservoir.  Think of your home's drip system although with a hydroponic twist and you get the idea of the hydroponic drip irrigation system.

What Are the Advantages? 

For the most part, the drip system is applicable to commercial facilities engaging in long-term cultivation of specific crops like tomatoes.  However, home growers are increasingly taking advantage of its advantages that include:

There is plenty of aeration since the roots are neither totally submerged nor totally dried out.  You have to experiment, however, with the right combination of times for delivery of nutrients. 
 
The nutrients are delivered exactly where you want them, hence, promoting cost-efficiency, and faster plant growth.
 
It is very easy to install especially when it comes in ready-made kits, not to mention that the parts are very durable. 
 
The nutrients can be recycled especially in the recovery type of hydroponic drip irrigation system.   
 
After all, it will not be as popular as it is now if there are no great benefits.

Are There Sub-Types?

There are two basic types of hydroponic drip irrigation system for hydroponic gardening.  First, the recovery method allows for a more efficient use of nutrients since you can recycle the excess that drips into the reservoir.  You can also use a cheaper timer since it does not demand precise control over the watering cycles.  However, you may have to put in more time and efforts since wide shifts in nutrient and pH levels can happen, thus, requiring periodic checking and adjusting.

On the other hand, the non-recovery hydroponic drip system requires a more expensive although more precise timer.  This way, you can ensure that the plant nutrients are delivered on the precise times and quantities, which will help in significantly reducing runoff and wastage.

On the upside, you can basically let the system operate on its own.  You just need to fill the reservoir with the right pH-adjusted nutrient, set the timer, and let it do its work.  This is because pH and nutrient levels will not vary since the runoff is not recycled back into the system.

Your decision about which type of hydroponic drip system you will use depends on your available time, allotted money, and level of expertise.  As much as possible, opt for the simplest system then progress from there as you learn more about hydroponic agriculture.