About the Kratky Method

The Kratky method of hydroponics is a simple and low-cost method of growing plants hydroponically without the need for electricity, pumps or timers. It was developed by Dr. Bernard Kratky in the 1990s.

In the Kratky method, plants are grown in a container filled with a nutrient solution. The container is usually made of plastic and can be of any size or shape. The nutrient solution is mixed with water and poured into the container, leaving some space at the top.

The plants are then placed into the nutrient solution and are held in place by a net pot or foam insert. The net pot or foam insert has holes in it, allowing the roots to grow into the nutrient solution.

As the plants grow, they use up the nutrients in the solution. The level of the nutrient solution will gradually decrease, exposing more of the roots to air. This causes the roots to grow longer and stronger, searching for more nutrients in the solution.

The Kratky method is ideal for growing small plants such as herbs, lettuce, and spinach. It is also suitable for growing plants in areas with limited access to electricity or water. One disadvantage of this method is that it may not be suitable for larger plants as the nutrient solution may need to be replenished more frequently.