Lettuce is the easiest crop to start with in soilless growing.
Basic system
A nutrient film technique (NFT) channel or floating raft holds plants, with nutrient solution circulating or in a tank. Seedlings start in small plugs (rockwool, peat or foam).
Keys to success
- Nutrient solution: use a complete hydroponic mix; keep EC (strength) and pH (about 5.5–6.5) in range and top up water regularly.
- Water temperature: below about 24 °C; warm water holds less oxygen and encourages root disease.
- Light and airflow: bright light, good ventilation, shade in extreme heat.
- Hygiene: clean systems between crops, filter inlet water, remove failing plants.
Economics
Fast cycles (4–6 weeks) and very high plant density give good output per square metre, but capital and attention are higher than soil growing. Start small, learn, then scale.
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