One of the most effective hydroponic systems is the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). In this article, we explore your options for choosing the best NFT hydroponic system available on the market.
The NFT hydroponic system is a low-maintenance, space-saving, and scalable solution that uses a thin film of nutrient-rich water flowing over the roots of plants, which are supported by a sloping channel. This allows oxygen and nutrients to reach the roots more easily without over-watering them, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of disease. For someone looking to save time and maximize productivity in their indoor or outdoor garden, NFT hydroponics is a fantastic choice.
If you want to grow crops commercially then you are better off sourcing the components and building a NFT hydroponic DIY system to keep costs down and scale production more easily. However, if you want to learn how to grow crops the NFT way or only grow produce for your family, then a complete NFT hydroponics kit is easier to set up and maintain.
When shopping for an NFT hydroponic system, it’s crucial to consider factors such as the materials used, channel design, size, and the included components like water pumps and nutrient reservoirs. These factors can significantly impact the durability, efficiency, and overall effectiveness of the system in supporting your plants’ growth.
We’ve dedicated hours to researching, comparing, and testing various NFT hydroponic systems to help you find the best models that will optimize your plants’ growth and streamline the gardening process.
- Best Nutrient Film Technique Kit
- Best Hydroponic NFT Systems
- INTBUYING Hydroponic 36 Holes Vertical Plant Site Grow Kit
- VIVOSUN 36 Holes 1 Layer Hydroponic Grow Kit
- INTBUYING Hydroponic 36-108 Holes Horizontal Plant Site Grow Kit
- VIVOSUN 108 Plant Site 3 Layer Hydroponics Growing System
- LAPOND Upgrade 108 Plant Sites, 3 Layers Hydroponics Growing System
- WEPLANT Hydroponics NFT System with 108 Holes
- Buying Guide
Best Nutrient Film Technique Kit
Best large horizontal NFT kit for beginners: VIVOSUN 108 Plant Site 3 Layer Hydroponics Growing System
Best vertical or horizontal NFT kit: LAPOND Upgrade 108 Plant Sites, 3 Layers Hydroponics Growing System
Best Hydroponic NFT Systems
We’ve researched and compiled a list of the top NFT hydroponic systems for you to explore. Dive in to discover the best options to help your plants flourish!
INTBUYING Hydroponic 36 Holes Vertical Plant Site Grow Kit
- S-style flow hydroponic kit with easy assembly, perfect for beginners
- Made with food-grade PVC-U water pipes, no pollution
- Can house up to 36 plants, suitable for growing vegetables, herbs, and berries
- High-quality produce quick yields
- Requires a non-transparent reservoir tank (15-20L capacity) and a power strip
- Needs at least 4 hours of daily light and ventilation for optimal growth
We recommend this grow kit for beginners looking for an easy-to-use and efficient hydroponic system.
- Simple to assemble and use
- High efficiency and fast 45-day yields
- Versatile design for various types of crops
- May require additional items like a reservoir tank and power strip
- Some design flaws make cleaning and drainage difficult
- Lack of detailed instructions
This INTBUYING 36 holes Hydroponic Grow Kit has impressed us with its simplicity and efficiency. As beginners, we found it extremely easy to assemble and use without needing any prior experience in hydroponic gardening. We loved that it allowed us to grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, and berries, all while requiring minimal space and effort.
However, we did notice that you may need to purchase additional items like a reservoir tank and power strip to get the system up and running. It’s also worth noting that some design flaws make cleaning and drainage a bit challenging, so be prepared to spend some extra time on maintenance.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we found this NFT hydroponic kit perfect for those who want to dive into the world of hydroponic gardening without needing to invest in a complicated setup. We were able to grow high-quality crops within a short timeframe of 45-days and are confident that with proper care, you will have similar success with your gardening experience.
VIVOSUN 36 Holes 1 Layer Hydroponic Grow Kit
- PVC hydroponic planting system with timed circulation. Default setting: pump runs 5 minutes every 30 minutes for nutrient film technique. Manual or automatic circulation mode saves nutrients, enhances pump durability, and improves vegetable growth.
- Simple hydroponic gardening system suitable for beginners. Saves time and energy, suitable for indoor and outdoor use without arable land.
- Durable and versatile food-grade PVC-U pipes, 4.3 feet (1.3 meters) long, 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in diameter. 36 sites for vegetables, flowers, and plants.
- What’s included: 1 set of planting pipes, 1 water pump timer, 1 water pump, 1 tube, 1 power plug, planting basket and sponge, 1 tweezers, 3 instructions (planting, assembly, timer), 1-year warranty.
We recommend the VIVOSUN Hydroponic Grow Kit for beginners as it’s easy to assemble, ideal for leafy vegetables, and includes a timer for efficient growth.
- High yield and quality
- Timer for nutrient film technique
- Easy to assemble and use
- Some reports of leakage
- Possible shading issues for bottom rows in wall mounted model
- Limited to leafy vegetables
The VIVOSUN 1 Layer 36 Plant Hydroponic Grow Kit offers a fantastic introduction to hydroponics with its user-friendly design. You can choose between a horizontal ground setup and a vertical wall-mounted setup.
One key feature we appreciated was the included timer, saving us effort in maintaining the hydroponic system. The default timer setting allows the pump to work for 5 minutes every 30 minutes, promoting nutrient film technique (NFT) for optimum growth. We found this to be particularly beneficial for our leafy greens, such as lettuce and celery.
Assembly and installation were a breeze, making it perfect for beginners or those with limited experience. Since no arable land is required, the system can be used indoors and outdoors.
However, some users have reported issues with leakage, which could be problematic if not addressed early on. Additionally, the bottom rows of plants in the wall-mounted model may need supplemental lighting as they can be heavily shaded during growth. If you’re looking to grow a wider variety of plants beyond leafy greens, you may find this kit somewhat limiting.
Overall, the VIVOSUN Hydroponic Grow Kit is a great option for beginners looking to get into hydroponics, particularly for growing leafy vegetables. With its ease of use and handy timer, we found it to be an enjoyable and efficient hydroponic system.
INTBUYING Hydroponic 36-108 Holes Horizontal Plant Site Grow Kit
This concise hydroponics guide covers:
- Introduction to Hydroponics
- Hydroponic Growing Mediums
- Types of Hydroponic Systems
- Plant Nutrition and Lighting
- Growing Process and Creating Your Own Systems
- Crops Suited to Hydroponic Gardening
This hydroponic system is a perfect addition to your garden, offering efficient vegetable growth and a simple-to-use design.
- Easy to assemble and use
- High-efficiency plant growth
- Environmentally friendly design
- Main pipes not using standard US sizes
- Some issues with fitting compatibility
- Potential for leaks at certain connections
The INTBUYING Hydroponic 36-108 Holes Plant Site Grow Kit is a fantastic option for both beginners and experienced gardeners looking to explore hydroponic growing. This design lets you choose the plant site size as well as whether you want a one, two, or three-layer design. We appreciate the system’s simplicity and the ease of assembly, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to grow vegetables quickly and efficiently.
One of the standout features of this hydroponic system is its high efficiency. In just 45 days, we were able to produce an impressive yield of healthy, nutritious vegetables, herbs, melons, and berries. The nutrient delivery system helps to nourish the plants’ roots, promoting overall health and better-tasting produce compared to soil-gardened alternatives.
Although we love many aspects of this system, it’s not without its flaws. We encountered some challenges with the pipe sizes and fittings, as they don’t seem to adhere to standard US sizes. This can make it difficult to replace or customize parts as needed. Additionally, we experienced a small leak at one of the connections, which could lead to water waste or plant damage if not addressed.
Overall, the INTBUYING Hydroponic 72 Holes Plant Site Grow Kit is an incredible investment for those looking to experiment with hydroponic gardening and grow a variety of plants with ease. Despite some minor issues, its efficiency and eco-friendly design make it a great addition to any home or urban garden.
VIVOSUN 108 Plant Site 3 Layer Hydroponics Growing System
- PVC hydroponic growing system with timed circulation. Default setting: pump runs 5 minutes every 30 minutes for nutrient film technique. Manual or automatic circulation mode saves nutrients, enhances pump durability, and improves vegetable growth.
- Easy assembly and use: Simple hydroponic gardening system suitable for beginners. Saves time and energy, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Durable and versatile: Each food-grade PVC-U pipe is 4.3 feet (1.3 meters) long, 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in diameter with 108 sites for vegetables, flowers, and plants. Ideal for leafy vegetables like lettuce, celery, bell peppers, etc., in homes and offices.
- What’s included: Plant germination kit with 3 layers, 1 set of planting pipes, 1 water pump timer, 1 water pump, 1 tube, 1 power plug, planting basket and sponge, 1 tweezers, 3 instructions (planting, assembly, timer), 1-year warranty.
The VIVOSUN Hydroponics Growing System is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to boost their hydroponic gardening game, providing impressive growth and yield.
- High yield and quality
- Easy to assemble & use
- Durable and widely applicable
- Some minor leaks
- Requires additional PVC glue
- May struggle with large plants
We recently tried the VIVOSUN 108 Plant Site 3 Layer Hydroponics Growing System and were seriously impressed with the high yields and quality of our crops. The nutrient film technique used by this system ensured efficient growth and optimal water consumption, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Setting up the VIVOSUN Hydroponics Growing System was a breeze, with everything we needed included in the package. It’s perfect for beginners and those with limited gardening experience, as the system is easy to assemble and use. Plus, its versatility means it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
We did notice a few minor leaks during our use of the system, but they were easily fixed with some additional PVC glue (not included). We would recommend keeping some on hand just in case. Additionally, while the system is great for leafy vegetables and flowers, larger plants like tomatoes may struggle to grow in the limited space provided.
Overall, we’re extremely satisfied with the VIVOSUN Hydroponics Growing System and believe it’s a fantastic option for those looking to grow leafy vegetables and smaller plants efficiently and effectively. Just keep some extra PVC glue handy to address any minor assembly hiccups.
LAPOND Upgrade 108 Plant Sites, 3 Layers Hydroponics Growing System
- Upgraded hydroponic system for hassle-free assembly and superior stability without wobbling. Thick legs provide excellent support, while silicone foot covers protect your floor.
- Premium 7W 12V 600L/H anti-dry burning water pump and timer ensure optimal water circulation for improved plant growth. Default timer setting: 5 minutes every 30 minutes, customizable to your needs.
- Extended soft hose replaces traditional plastic tube, allowing flexible placement of the water bucket (recommended size: ≥6 gallon). No more restrictions.
- Complete Package: Includes hydroponics shelf, hammer, inlet and outlet hoses, hook, water pump, timer, adapter, 108 planting baskets, 108 sponges, tweezers, sealant tape, and detailed instructions. Plus, enjoy a 1-year warranty.
We highly recommend this easy-to-assemble and efficient hydroponics system for both novice and experienced growers.
- Premium food-grade PVC pipes
- Easy to assemble and stable structure
- Timed circulation system with water pump and timer
- Requires a separate reservoir
- Sponges included may not be effective
- Algae growth may require extra maintenance
We recently set up the LAPOND Upgrade Hydroponics Growing System and have been impressed with its high-quality PVC pipes. These food-grade materials ensure that our plants are getting the oxygenated water and nutrients they need, providing us with fresh and flavorful produce.
What sets this hydroponics system apart is how easy it was to assemble. We tested the 3 layer 108 plant site kit, but you can try anything from a 1 layer 36 hole and up. The instructions were clear, and the structure was stable once we got it together. We also appreciated the timed circulation system that came with a water pump and timer. We could easily customize the settings to suit our plants’ needs, ensuring optimal growth.
However, there were a few drawbacks we noted. First, this NFT hydroponic kit doesn’t come with a reservoir, so we had to purchase one separately. Additionally, we found that the sponges included in the kit weren’t the most effective. We replaced them with alternatives that worked better for our plants. Lastly, we did encounter some algae growth, which required extra care and maintenance on our part.
Overall, the LAPOND Upgrade Hydroponics Growing System is a great option for those looking to start their hydroponics journey, as well as more experienced cultivators. With its ease of assembly, premium materials, and efficient circulation system, it has the potential to yield excellent results. Just be prepared to source a reservoir and address any potential algae growth along the way.
WEPLANT Hydroponics NFT System with 108 Holes
- Default timer setting enables the pump to work for 5 minutes every 30 minutes, optimizing nutrient solution usage and promoting better vegetable growth.
- The entire piping system is designed for S-flow, increasing dissolved oxygen in the water through water drop.
- Prepare a non-transparent, covered tank of around 10-15L capacity and ensure a power supply. Place the equipment in a sunny area with a minimum of 4 hours of daily light exposure to avoid malnourished plants.
- Package Accessories: Hydroponic holder and planting pipe, timer (1), 12V water pump (1), adapter (1), planting basket (108), planting sponge (108), planting course (1), installation instructions (1), tweezers (1), hose (1).
We think this is a great choice for beginners in hydroponics due to its compact design, affordability, and ease of use.
- Compact and space-saving design
- Affordable for beginners
- Easy to assemble and maintain
- Included pump may be too small
- Missing a few baskets
- Not a true NFT system, more of a deep water culture
We found the WEPLANT 108 plant site Hydroponics NFT System to be an excellent entry-level option for those looking to begin hydroponic gardening. The compact design makes it ideal for small spaces, and we had no problem growing lettuces, basil, cilantro, and many other herbs and vegetables.
The assembly process for this NFT hydroponics kit is quite simple, and it comes with a timed pump for added convenience. However, we noticed that the included pump might be too small to push water up the pipe effectively. It may be necessary to purchase a more powerful pump separately.
One downside we encountered was that it was missing a few baskets, which could be an issue if you plan to use all 108 holes. Also, while marketed as an NFT system, we found it to be closer to a deep water culture setup. The water back pressure created by the pump at its lowest setting causes it to fill each pipe almost to capacity. This might not be a deal-breaker but something to be aware of if you’re set on using NFT.
Overall, we recommend the WEPLANT Hydroponics NFT System for beginners interested in hydroponic gardening, particularly if you have limited space. Just be aware that you may need to invest in a more powerful pump and a few additional baskets, and bear in mind that this system isn’t quite a true NFT setup.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best NFT hydroponic system, there are several factors to consider to make an informed decision. In this buying guide, we’ll explore some key features and aspects to help you choose the best NFT system for your needs. But before that, make sure you fully understand how the nutrient film technique works.
Size and space requirements
The right system for you will depend on factors such as the number of plants you intend to grow, the type of plants, and the available space in your growing area. To begin with, measure the dimensions of your designated growing area so that you have a clear understanding of its limitations.
In terms of system sizes, NFT hydroponic systems come in various lengths and widths to accommodate different numbers of plants. Consider how many plants you would like to cultivate simultaneously and select a system that can accommodate this plant density while allowing enough room for their growth. Keep in mind that some plants may require more individual space than others due to their mature size or growth habits.
Additionally, ensure there is sufficient vertical space for plant support structures (such as trellises) and adequate air circulation around the canopy, which is crucial for healthy plant development. Don’t forget to account for any additional equipment needed such as lighting fixtures or ventilation systems when planning your setup.
Expandability
Expandability is a crucial aspect to consider when investing in an NFT hydroponics system. As your gardening needs grow and evolve, it’s essential to choose a system that can adapt to accommodate those changes. Many beginner NFT kits can’t be expanded at all so you will just have to buy a second system. When assessing expandability, keep the following factors in mind.
First, consider the modularity of the hydroponics system. Modularity refers to the ease with which you can add or remove components without disrupting existing plants or infrastructure. Look for systems with standardized parts and connections, making it simple to increase or decrease the number of growing modules as needed. It’s also beneficial if expansion kits are readily available from the manufacturer or third-party suppliers. Additionally, ensure that any upgrades or expansions will be compatible with your current control and monitoring systems (such as nutrient dosing pumps and environmental sensors), so integration remains seamless as your setup grows.
Secondly, pay attention to space requirements and overall system scalability. As you expand your NFT hydroponics system, you’ll need adequate space for additional channels, reservoirs, pumps, and other essential equipment. Ensure that the system allows for multi-tiered setups or vertical farming if space is limited in your growing area while maintaining accessibility for maintenance purposes. Furthermore, look into whether expanding your system will significantly increase energy consumption or require additional lighting sources – factor these costs into your long-term budgeting plans as you plan for future growth.
Types of Plants to Grow
When considering the purchase of an NFT hydroponics system, it is crucial to evaluate the types of plants you wish to grow, as different plants have varying requirements for nutrients, light, and space. It is essential to research and select plant varieties that are well-suited for hydroponic cultivation. Leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, and kale are popular choices due to their relatively fast growth rates and minimal space requirements. Herbs like basil, mint, and chives can also thrive in an NFT system.
Smaller systems may be suitable for personal use or hobby gardens but may not suffice if you plan on growing vegetables or larger fruiting plants like tomatoes or cucumbers. Ensure that your chosen plants have compatible growth habits and similar nutrient needs so that they can coexist harmoniously within the same system.
Nutrient Delivery
Now let’s take a look at the nutrient delivery system, as it directly impacts the health and growth of your plants. A reliable and efficient nutrient delivery system ensures that your plants receive all the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth. There are several factors to consider when evaluating a system’s nutrient delivery capabilities.
First, look for a system with consistent circulation and even distribution of nutrients. This ensures that each plant receives an equal share of nutrients, preventing deficiencies or imbalances. Make sure to check if the system has high-quality pumps and timers for accurate control over nutrient flow and delivery schedules.
Additionally, pay attention to how easy it is to maintain and clean the components involved in nutrient delivery, as this will help prevent buildup or blockages that could negatively impact your plants’ health. Lastly, consider systems with built-in monitoring features that allow you to track pH levels, temperature, and nutrient concentrations; these data points can be invaluable in making adjustments and ensuring a successful growing experience.
Lighting Requirements
Finally, don’t forget about lighting. The right lighting setup ensures that your plants receive the optimal spectrum of light for efficient growth and maximum yield. Since hydroponic growing typically takes place indoors, your NFT system will need to be compatible with your chosen lighting setup. Look for systems that provide light mounting options or include recommendations for specific types of lighting that work well with the system.
By considering these features and keeping your specific needs in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect NFT hydroponic system for your indoor garden.
