Question

What is the key principle of the EBB and the flow system in hydroponics?
a. It floods and drains periodically
b. It makes a tide flowing over the roots
c. It sprays a mist of nutrients on the roots
d. None of the above

Answer 1

In simple words, EBB and the flowing system of hydroponics works on the simple principle of periodical flow and drainage of nutrient water from the reservoir to the growth tray and vice versa.

Complete answer:
The principle behind the EBB and flow system is quite simple. It mainly works on the flood and drain system in the containers in which the plants are growing. Either one or a series of plants are planted in growing trays. A timer controls the water pumping system. As the pump is turned on, the nutrient solution is pumped through tubes from the reservoir which is placed on the top of the system.

A submersible fountain or pond pump is used for the same. The nutrient solution continues to flood the growth tray and the plant’s root soaks it until it reaches its water limit. An overflow tube marks the limit and helps the solution to be recirculated back to the reservoir. The overflow tube maintains the flood and drain system and makes sures that the nutrient solution doesn’t drip out from the top of the system. There is a constant circulation of nutrient water in the system for a certain period of time. When the pump is turned off, the water comes back to the reservoir through the drainage system. It is also known as the flood and drain system of hydroponic gardening.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: The EBB and flow system is a sustainable process which helps nurture growing plants efficiently. It is the most widely recognised, versatile and relatively cheaper process of hydroponic gardening.