A wicking system is the simplest form of passive hydroponics, where an absorbent wick draws nutrient solution from a reservoir up into the growing medium by capillary action. Plants absorb moisture from the medium as needed with no pumps, electricity, or timers required.
Key Facts
- Completely passive β no pumps, electricity, or moving parts
- Capillary action pulls nutrient solution from reservoir through the wick into the medium
- Common wick materials: cotton rope, felt, nylon string, or fibrous growing media
- Best for small, low-demand plants: herbs, lettuce seedlings, succulents
- Not suitable for large, thirsty plants β wick cannot deliver nutrients fast enough
- Growing medium must be fine enough for capillary action: coco coir or perlite-vermiculite mixes