See
Fig 5.4. Aeroponic
systems require no media. The plant’s root system is freely
suspended in a reservoir. The nutrient is delivered as a fine mist
(or fog) via the use of spray jets and a high pressure pump, which
typically operates 24 hours per day.
Advantages of Aeroponic systems
+
Provides an oxygen rich environment for roots. However, the air inside the
nutrient reservoir must be ventilated to prevent oxygen starvation.
+
Avoids the supply, disposal and cost problems associated with medium based
systems.
+
Easy to sterilize roots and hardware.
+
The absence of medium makes it easy to inspect roots for signs of disease,
feed adequacy, etc.
+
Root zone EC and pH will equal that of the nutrient solution.
Disadvantages of Aeroponic systems
+
Pump failure can result in plant death within a few hours, especially in
hot weather.
+
Spray jets are prone to blockages therefore filters and routine
maintenance of the feed circuit are necessary.
+
Evaporation losses are high and unless frequent dumping is performed, salt
buildup in the nutrient can be rapid.
