What Is Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) in Hydroponics?

In this blog, we’re talking about NFT—but not the blockchain kind. We’re diving into Nutrient Film Technique, one of the most widely used and efficient systems in commercial hydroponic farming.

What Is NFT in Hydroponics?

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a recirculating hydroponic system that delivers a shallow stream—or “film”—of nutrient-rich water directly to the plant roots.

Unlike static methods like Deep Water Culture (DWC), NFT systems use continuous flow, offering high oxygen availability and optimized nutrient uptake.

How Does NFT Work?

1. A tank holds your nutrient solution (water + fertilizer).
2. A pump circulates the solution through pipes to plant trays (also called gullies).
3. The solution flows as a thin film beneath the plant roots—hence the name.
4. Roots absorb nutrients as the solution moves downward by gravity.
5. Excess solution is collected and returned to the tank in a closed-loop system.

Most commercial NFT setups also include:

• pH and EC sensors
• Oxygen monitors
• Filters to remove debris
• UV or ozone sterilizers for system hygiene

Why Is NFT So Popular?

NFT is the go-to system for crops like:

• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Peppers
• Chilies
• Samphire
• And even strawberries

Large-scale growers use it because it’s:

• Space-efficient (perfect for maximizing plant density)
• Oxygen-rich (ideal for fast root development)
• Low volume (requires less water and no individual pots)

It’s used in greenhouses around the world, including massive operations like Thanet Earth in Kent—once the world’s largest greenhouse.

Benefits of NFT Systems

✅ Highly Oxygenated Root Zone – Ideal for fast-growing crops
✅ Low Water Usage – Recirculation makes it sustainable
✅ Scalable – Perfect for commercial operations
✅ Efficient Use of Space – Minimal structure, maximum yield
✅ Customizable – Easily automated with sensors and dosing systems

Downsides to Be Aware Of

⚠️ Pump Dependency – If the pump fails, plants can dry out quickly
⚠️ Biofilm and Algae Build-Up – Requires regular cleaning
⚠️ Limited for Large Plants – Not ideal for crops with big root systems
⚠️ Less Popular for Hobbyists – Hard to find small-scale NFT kits today

Pro Tip: NFT + Gold Leaf Fertilizer = Off-Grid Ready

Most NFT systems require nutrient tanks and pH adjusters. But with Gold Leaf (or Liquid Gold in the UK), you can simplify even further:

“With Gold Leaf, you can run an off-grid NFT system. Just use a Dosatron directly into tap water—no separate tank, no pH balancing needed.” Dr Russell Sharp

This setup is perfect for:

• Strawberry growers
• Solar-powered systems
• Low-input, high-output farming

Final Thoughts: Is NFT Right for You?

If you’re growing high-yield crops in a commercial or large-scale setup, NFT is hard to beat. It’s precise, efficient, and proven in massive greenhouses. Just make sure you maintain system hygiene and invest in reliable pumps and filters.

And if you’re using Gold Leaf Fertilizer, you might unlock even greater simplicity and sustainability with your system.

Article by Dr Russell Sharp

If you would like to keep up to date with subjects just like this, you can listen to both our podcasts! Links can be found bellow:

Hydroponics Daily Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2

Cereal Killers Podcast: https://t.co/eSEbBkTVHl