Hydroponics Systems - The Wick

The wick system is a great way to start with hydroponics because it is very straightforward to build.

To begin with a tank is required as a reservoir to contain the nutrient solution. A tray is laid on top for the plants to reside and a wick similar to a candle wick is dangled into the solution.

The plants sit in a soilless growing medium such as perlite or vermiculite and the wick leads towards the roots of the plants. The roots do not need to hang into the nutrient solution.

Unlike other hydroponic systems the plants do not need net pots to hold the growing medium. The entire tray is filled with the medium and the seedlings are spread evenly throughout.

It is a very easy system to operate as it contains no moving parts and is effectively self-sufficient. One thing to be aware of is that it is only suitable for plants that require little maintenance and a relatively low water intake.

Plants that will succeed include herbs and lettuce whereas plants such as tomatoes will struggle because they are rather thirsty.

Although the wick system is fairly self-sufficient an air pump and air stone is advisable to refresh the water.