This
typically describes those systems where multiple independent pots are
connected to a central nutrient reservoir. Depending on which medium
is used, it is plumbed in either a ‘re-circulating’ (Fig
5.5a) or ‘run-to-waste’ mode (Fig
5.5b).
Any medium is feasible, however, it is
undesirable to have run-to-waste specific media (e.g. soil, coco fibre,
Rockwool) in some pots and re-circulating specific media (e.g. expanded
clay, perlite) in others. This is because of the different feed
frequencies and volumes required for each.
Individual pots are top fed and contain
multiple drain holes in their base to ensure complete drainage. Each
pot is seated inside a second pot that acts like a sump to collect the
waste nutrient (termed “nested” pots). This ‘sump’ contains a drainage
line that is either plumbed (via gravity feed) to waste, or to the central
nutrient reservoir to be re-circulated.
Advantages of satellite systems
+
Very flexible system because pots can be added (or removed) as needed
without disturbing the remaining pots.
+
Larger pots can be used for those species with large root systems.
+
Easy to reposition individual plants.
+
Diseased or pest ridden pots can be removed to protect those that are
healthy.
Disadvantages of satellite systems
+
Top-fed nutrient tends to ‘channel’ downward through the medium where root
density is lowest. Therefore, roots located off to the side often dry out
(Fig 5.10).
