Here's how these systems typically function:
Reservoir:
The bench system incorporates a water reservoir, often located underneath or integrated into the bench structure.
This reservoir holds a supply of water, which may be supplemented with a nutrient solution for fertigation.
Capillary Matting or Wicking Material:
A capillary matting or wicking material, such as a geotextile fabric or absorbent foam, is laid across the bench surface.
This material acts as a bridge, allowing the water from the reservoir to be drawn up into the growing media through capillary action.
Growing Containers:
The plants are grown in pots or containers that are placed directly on the capillary matting or wicking material.
The growing media within the containers must be in direct contact with the capillary material to facilitate the upward movement of water and nutrients.
Automated Water Level Monitoring:
Many self-watering systems incorporate sensors or float switches to monitor the water level in the reservoir.
These automated controls can trigger the addition of water or nutrient solution to maintain the desired moisture level and nutrient concentration.
Passive Subirrigation:
As the plants transpire and the growing media dries out, China greenhouse table supplier the capillary action draws up additional water from the reservoir to replenish the moisture in the root zone.
This passive, continuous subirrigation ensures that the plants have a consistent supply of water and nutrients, reducing the need for manual watering.
Drainage and Recirculation:
Many self-watering bench systems include a drainage system that collects any excess water or nutrient solution that is not absorbed by the plants.
This water can then be recirculated back into the reservoir, reducing water and nutrient wastage.
The advantages of self-watering or sub-irrigated greenhouse bench systems include:
Consistent moisture and nutrient availability for the plants
Reduced water and labor requirements compared to top-watering methods
Improved root growth and plant health due to the continuous access to water and nutrients
Potential for recirculation and increased water and nutrient use efficiency
These systems are particularly well-suited for greenhouse cultivation, where the controlled environment and proximity of the plant root zones to the water source enable the effective implementation of this passive irrigation approach.
