By Scout Nelson
Growing fresh lettuce at home during winter sounds impossible, but a simple hydroponic system makes it achievable. Inspired by a presentation at the National Urban Extension Leadership Conference, one can now grow greens using the Kratky hydroponic method.
Start with a gallon container that can support a two-inch net pod. Fill it with water and add the correct amount of nutrient solution made for hydroponics. Then, wrap the container with aluminum foil to stop algae from growing.
Place a rockwool cube into the net pod, followed by a hydroponic seed. Rockwool helps the seed stay firm while germinating. Insert the net pod into the container and place it by a sunny window or under a grow light. Soon, you’ll be ready to harvest.
The Kratky method, created by B.A. Kratky from the University of Hawaii, allows plants to grow without pumps or electricity. It uses capillary action, which helps water move through a plant’s tissues. As the water level lowers, the plant’s roots grow longer and reach down, while the air gap created allows the plant to receive oxygen—similar to how soil-based plants grow.
Wondering what to grow? Lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, basil, and even tomatoes and cucumbers are possible. Smaller plants do well in gallon containers or jars. For bigger plants, use a five-gallon bucket to give them room to grow.
When planting, choose hydroponic seed varieties that are designed for water-based systems. These seeds give better results in indoor, soilless environments.
This method is great for school projects, home gardening, and learning how plants grow in different systems. As shared in the article, “I mean, growing lettuce in the middle of winter without needing a huge hydroponic tower? Count me in!”
Photo Credits:pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: North Dakota, General