Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 6.12
Ebb and flow fill and drain pipes at the base of the growing tray
of the MicroGarden. (Courtesy of Botanicare, Tempe, Arizona.)
Botanicare has a series of Microgardens using ebb and flow systems.
Basically, a growing tray sits on top of a nutrient reservoir (Figure 6.13).
The solution is pumped into the growing tray with pots of expanded clay
pebbles. Large square pots or smaller net pots may be used depending
upon the plants to be grown (Figure 6.14). Prices range from $250 to $360.
AEROPONIC SYSTEMS
Botanicare makes an Aerojet system, which is a combination of aeroponic
and soilless cultures. The grow trays are 8 inches wide by either 42 or 72
inches long. The 42-inch tray will hold either six 4-inch or four 6-inch mesh
pots (Figure 6.15 and Figure 6.16). Mist is applied from below in bursts of
1 minute on and 4 minutes off (Figure 6.17). Fill the pots with expanded
clay pebbles. A 20-gallon reservoir comes with the smaller models. Prices
range from $800 to $1700 for models with two trays to eight trays.
Botanicare also has a series of smaller aeroponic Microgardens and
Turbogardens that use an aeroponic growing tray containing the misters
(Figures 6.18 to 6.20). The tray sits on top of a nutrient reservoir and has a
cover to support the plants. Prices range from $350 to $550.
