What is the Kratky Method of Hydroponics?
The Kratky method is a type of passive hydroponics, which means it does not require electricity or pumps to circulate the nutrient solution. The method is named after Dr. B.A. Kratky, a researcher from the University of Hawaii who developed it.
In the Kratky method, plants are grown in a container filled with a nutrient solution, and the container is sealed to prevent evaporation. As the plants grow, they consume the nutrients in the solution, and the water level in the container drops. This creates an airspace between the surface of the nutrient solution and the lid of the container, which allows oxygen to diffuse into the root zone and allows the plant to continue to grow.
Kratky Method vs Other Hydroponic Systems
Compared to other hydroponics systems, the Kratky method is relatively simple and low-maintenance, it does not require electricity or pumps to circulate the nutrient solution. This makes it a good option for people who want to try hydroponics but are intimidated by the complexity of more traditional hydroponics systems. Additionally, the Kratky method can be used with a wide range of plants and can be done with minimal space requirement.
Why we have decided to start with the Kratky Method.
I first started down the hydroponic path using self watering or self wicking buckets. This system creates a well of water at the bottom and uses a wicking process to draw moisture UP from the bottom. This is a great system as it greatly reduces the amount of water needed and time spent watering. Its also a great solution for patio’s or places with limited space. My main issue with self wicking containers at this point is feeding the plant. You still need to fertilize the plant, and while I found success with mixing in compost and slow release into the original potting soil, I felt it still needed nutrients added. I spent hundreds of hours looking at hydroponics. All the forms of Hydroponics. Hydroponics vs Auquaponics. The automation geek in me is very drawn to both. I stumbled across the Kratky method and specifically Kratky Cucumbers. The main advantage is it requires no electricity. Given the right size of container, it also requires no additional watering or input from the gardener. A true set and forget set up! My main goal with our greenhouse is to get it as less dependent on the grid as possible. Typical hydroponic set ups all require pumps. If you lose power or the pump fails your system fails. We lose power here often from high winds or snow bringing down tree limbs onto power lines. This Kratky Method seemed to fit my requirements perfectly.