Using net pots for plants, especially in hydroponic systems, is a simple process that provides crucial support and aeration for roots.
Net pots, sometimes called net cups, are specialized containers with holes or mesh sides designed to hold a plant and its growing medium while allowing plant roots to grow through the openings and access water and nutrients. They are commonly used in various hydroponic methods like deep water culture (DWC), ebb and flow, and aeroponic systems, but can also be used for starting seeds or cuttings.
Here's how you generally use a net pot for a plant, incorporating the essential steps:
Planting in a Net Pot
The core process involves placing the plant and securing it within the net pot using a suitable growing medium.
Follow these simple steps to use a net pot:
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Step 1: Place Your Plant in the Net Cup
Take your plant, often a young seedling or clone, and put it inside the net cup (net pot). Ensure the roots are positioned to grow downwards through the netting.
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Step 2: Add Your Grow Medium
Start putting your grow medium around the base of the plant within the net pot. Common grow media include clay pellets (LECA), lava rock, rockwool, or coco coir. This medium supports the plant and helps wick water and nutrients to the roots.
Examples of suitable grow media:
- Clay pellets (expanded clay aggregate)
- Lava rock
- Rockwool cubes
- Coconut coir
- Perlite
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Step 3: Block Out Light
Look around your plant and make sure that light isn't penetrating through your medium to the roots. Fill the net pot sufficiently to cover the top layer of the medium around the plant's base. Blocking light is critical to prevent algae growth in the nutrient solution, which can harm the roots.
By following these steps, you effectively use a net pot to house your plant, provide necessary support, and create a suitable environment for root development in a hydroponic or semi-hydroponic setup.
