What You Can Grow in Your Garden Using the Nutrient Film Technique

The nutrient film technique is one of the most popular hydroponic systems found in gardens today. This is because it is extremely versatile and easy to use and can even be used by experienced and beginner growers alike. In the nutrient film technique, the roots of hydroponically grown plants are submerged in a thin "film" of flowing water. The relative simplicity of the nutrient film technique makes it one of the best options for beginners. All that is really required to start up your own hydroponic garden is a small, quality NFT system and a few good NFT nutrients. But once you have decided upon using the NFT system and have purchased your NFT nutrients, what exactly should you grow? While it is possible to grow a large variety of fruits and vegetables using this system, one of the most popular things to grow is green leafy vegetables. Certain qualities of the nutrient film technique makes it more suited to growing these kinds of plants.

Here are some popular and tasty green leafy vegetables that you can grow using NFT nutrients and the NFT hydroponic system.

Cabbage - Cabbage is a classic for experienced hydroponic growers. It is notable for having large amounts of folate, and contains a bit more protein than your average green leafy vegetable. It also contains large amounts of glutamine, which an amino acid that can cut down on muscle inflammation. Cabbage is notable for having a very sharp, crisp, and bitter taste. The distinct flavor of cabbage can be intensified by using higher amounts of NFT nutrients late in development, such as potassium and phosphors. Cabbage can then be used to make soup, coleslaw, rolls, or as a delicious dip for chips.

Arugula - If you want to add a little more flavor to your salads or your pasta dishes, you might consider growing some arugula. Arugula is notable for being very rich in vitamin C and potassium. It's very strong, peppery flavor makes it ideal addition to any dish that you want to liven up. This taste can of course be enhanced by using the right NFT nutrients during the right time. A healthy supply of micro and macronutrients throughout development will help create full, firm leaves that are packed with flavor. You should also make certain to invest in other hydroponic supplements, such as vitamins and organic materials, can further help increase your yield.

Spinach - Spinach is another favorite of hydroponic growers who want to grow green leafy vegetables. Spinach can be extremely healthy because it contains very high amounts of Vitamins A, C, E & K. It also contains large amounts of iron, which is essential for muscle development. They can used to make quiche or lasagna, or you can make use spinach to make a healthy salad. The key to making your spinach as healthy as possible is using the correct NFT nutrients whenever possible. A nutrient rich environment will help produce healthier, larger leaves.

Bok Choy - If you wan to try growing something a little more exotic, you might be a little more interested in growing bok choy. This green leafy vegetable, also sometimes called "Chinese cabbage" and is a fantastic source of vitamin C and fiber. If you are accustomed to eating bok choy that you buy from the supermarket, you might be surprised at just how sweet and flavorful bok choy can be when you grow it in your hydroponic garden using the right NFT nutrients.

If you would like more information on the NFT technique, visit my collection of articles on gardening, hydroponics and other agricultural techniques.