In gardening, a closed system refers to a hydroponic system whereby the same nutrients or nutrient solutions are repeatedly recycled. This differs from other types of systems whereby fresh solution has to be re-applied often.
A closed system is a cost-effective system that is ideal for larger crops. However, the concentration of the nutrient solution needs to be regularly monitored and adjusted accordingly.
The term closed system is applied to various types of hydroponics. Nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic systems, for instance, use a non-stop flow of nutrient solution around the roots. This provides the plant with continuous access to nutrients and aeration alike. Rather than drain to waste, the nutrients are constantly being recycled within the closed system.
The ebb and flow hydroponic technique is another method of hydroponics that is commonly used in a closed system. Extremely low-cost and low-maintenance, this technique works particularly well with potted plants and plug production. The ebb and flow closed system, sometimes referred to as flood and drain, entails a pump and nutrient reservoir flooding the plot of grow media and allowing the nutrient solution to drain away to waste or to a nearby reservoir. The frequency of this action within the closed system depends on a number of factors, such as the plant’s water requirements, the size of the growing containers, as well as the type of growing medium.
Share this Term
Don't Miss the Latest News From Maximum Yield!
Stay on top of new content from MaximumYield.com. Join our email newsletter and get the latest grow tips in your inbox every week.
Latest Articles
By: Chris Bond | Certified Permaculture Designer, Nursery Technician, Nursery Professional
By: Kent Gruetzmacher | Writer, Owner of KCG Content
By: Leo Siren | Public Librarian
You must be 19 years of age or older to enter this site.
Please confirm your date of birth:
