How to build a Lettuce Raft System
The Lettuce Raft is another easy to build and affordable hydroponic system. It can usually be built in about an hour with minimal tools and easy to find parts. The Raft System is an aeroponic or aquaponic type system. A “raft” made out of Styrofoam serves as the plant site and floats directly on the nutrient solution. The roots are aerated by an aquarium air pump and diffusion stone. The system is reliable and pretty much maintenance free and a great build for beginners or those who wish to experiment with hydroponics. The main drawback of this type of system is clogging of the air diffusion stones with mineral build up. Another drawback is that only short stature crops and plants, such as lettuce, can be grown in this system.
The parts are cheap and the reservoir can be any water tight food grade container. Totes and buckets make the best choice but virtually anything that holds water may be used. Some people use small fish tanks, which is fine as long as the glass sides are covered or painted to block out light. Styrofoam flats can be purchased at most hardware stores in the insulation section.
The parts are cheap and the reservoir can be any water tight food grade container. Totes and buckets make the best choice but virtually anything that holds water may be used. Some people use small fish tanks, which is fine as long as the glass sides are covered or painted to block out light. Styrofoam flats can be purchased at most hardware stores in the insulation section.
