Part 4. DFT Hydroponics: The Flowing Solution Method and Its Uses
Sdílet
DFT Hydroponics: The Flowing Solution Method and Its Uses
Hydroponics is constantly introducing new methods of growing plants without soil, with one of the lesser-known but still widely used technologies being DFT (Deep Flow Technique) . This system is an alternative to the popular NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) method , but offers more stable conditions for plants .
In this article, we will look at how DFT works, its advantages and disadvantages, and compare it to other hydroponic systems.
📝 Source: Hydroponics for Everyone, William Texier
How does the DFT system work?
The DFT method is very similar to the NFT system, but with one major difference – the nutrient solution level is higher, usually around 4 to 5 cm . In practice, this means that the plant roots are permanently submerged in water , but at the same time have access to oxygen thanks to the continuous circulation of the solution.
In DFT systems , the growing channels are built horizontally , not at an angle like in NFT. The nutrient solution flows into the channels through the supply hoses and is drained back through a second hose. This creates a stable environment with greater buffering capacity , which means less fluctuations in pH, temperature and nutrient concentration .
Thanks to the larger volume of water , plants are not immediately at risk if the pump fails , which is a big advantage over NFT.
Main components of the DFT system:
✔ Growing channels – horizontal plastic troughs or pipes where plants grow.
✔ Nutrient solution tank – a container with water and dissolved nutrients.
✔ Water pump – maintains continuous circulation of the solution.
✔ Aeration system (optional) – adds oxygen to the solution for healthier roots.
✔ Growing baskets – keep plants above the water surface and allow them to grow stably.
Advantages of the DFT method
1. Better environmental stability
One of the main problems with NFT is that the roots are not permanently submerged in water , which can lead to them drying out in the event of a power outage or pump failure. DFT eliminates this problem by providing the plants with a larger volume of water , which provides a more stable environment.
2. Higher buffering capacity
Buffering capacity refers to the system's ability to maintain stable pH and temperature values . The higher amount of water in DFT means that the nutrient solution does not react immediately to environmental changes , which helps maintain optimal conditions for plant growth.
3. Lower risk of water overheating
In the summer months, water in hydroponic systems can overheat, which negatively affects plant growth . In DFT, due to the larger volume of water , the heating does not occur as quickly , thus minimizing the risk of root damage.
4. Better conditions for large plants
In NFT, plants located further from the nutrient solution inlet may receive less oxygen than those closer to the inlet. In DFT, this problem is eliminated because the entire channel is filled with water , allowing a more even supply of nutrients to all plants.
Disadvantages and problems of the DFT system
1. Uneven oxygenation of water
Although DFT has more stable conditions than NFT , due to the higher water level, insufficient oxygenation of the solution can occur. This problem can be solved by using an aeration pump or aeration stones to add oxygen to the water.
2. Possible uneven distribution of nutrients
In DFT systems, water flows more slowly than in NFT, which can cause uneven nutrient distribution . Minerals such as potassium or calcium can be depleted before they reach more distant plants.
3. Higher water consumption
DFT requires a larger volume of water than NFT, which can mean higher system maintenance costs , especially if the solution needs to be changed frequently due to contamination or sediment buildup.
Comparison of DFT and NFT
| Factor | NFT (nutrient layer) | DFT (flowing solution) |
|---|---|---|
| Water level | 1–3 mm (very thin) | 4–5 cm (higher) |
| Environmental stability | Low, sensitive to outages | Higher, better buffering capacity |
| Root oxygenation | High | Lower, aeration required |
| Suitable for | Salads, herbs, light plants | Larger plants, strawberries, cucumbers |
| Sensitivity to pump failures | High (roots dry out quickly) | Lower (roots still have water available) |
This comparison suggests that NFT is ideal for fast-growing leafy greens , while DFT is better suited for larger plants or higher temperature environments where greater stability is required.
How to build a home DFT system?
Building a DFT system is easy and affordable . You will need:
✔ Growing troughs or plastic pipes – must be horizontal, without a slope.
✔ Nutrient solution tank – large enough for a stable volume of water.
✔ Solution circulation pump – ensures an even supply of nutrients.
✔ Air pump (recommended) – for better oxygenation of the water.
✔ Growing baskets or mats – for placing plants.
Assembly procedure:
1️⃣ Place the growing channels horizontally and connect the water inlet and outlet.
2️⃣ Connect the pump for continuous supply of nutrient solution.
3️⃣ Add an air pump to ensure the solution is sufficiently oxygenated.
4️⃣ Place the plants in the growing baskets and watch them grow.
Conclusion: Why choose DFT?
If you are looking for a stable hydroponic system that eliminates the main disadvantages of NFT , then DFT is a great choice .
🌱 Stable pH and temperature
🌱 Better conditions for large plants
🌱 Lower risk of roots drying out
💡 Are you planning to grow hydroponically? DFT will ensure efficient growth and stable conditions! 🚀
📝 Source: Hydroponics for Everyone, William Texier