Wick System Hydroponics
A Simple Passive Growing Method
The Wick System is the simplest type of hydroponic setup, requiring no pumps, electricity, or complex components. Instead, it relies on capillary action, where wicks absorb nutrient solution from a reservoir and deliver it directly to the plant roots.
This passive hydroponic method is ideal for beginners, small-scale growers, and those looking for a low-maintenance setup.
How Does the Wick System Work?
The Wick System is the simplest form of hydroponics, requiring no pumps, electricity, or moving parts. Instead, it uses wicks to draw nutrient-rich water from a reservoir into the growing medium, ensuring consistent moisture for plant roots.
How It Works (Step-by-Step):
1️⃣ Nutrient Solution Absorption – Wicks (made of cotton, nylon, or felt) are placed in the reservoir, absorbing and transporting the nutrient solution upward.
2️⃣ Capillary Action – The solution moves naturally through the wick and into the growing medium, keeping it moist but not overly wet.
3️⃣ Root Uptake – Plants gradually absorb nutrients and water from the moistened medium, supporting steady growth.
Key Components of a Wick System
✔ Reservoir – Holds the hydroponic nutrient solution below the plants.
✔ Wicks – Transfers nutrients via capillary action (cotton, felt, nylon).
✔ Growing Medium – Should retain moisture but prevent over-saturation (coco coir, perlite, vermiculite).
✔ Plant Containers – Houses plants above the reservoir, ensuring passive nutrient uptake.
Best Plants for Wick Hydroponic Systems
Because nutrient delivery is slower than in active hydroponic systems, small and low-maintenance plants thrive best. Some of the top choices include:
🌱 Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, mint
🥬 Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale
🌿 Microgreens & Baby Greens
Larger fruiting plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, or peppers require more nutrients and water than the wick system can provide efficiently.
How to Build a Wick Hydroponic System
Setting up a Wick System is incredibly simple and requires only a few materials.
Step 1: Prepare the Reservoir & Growing Container
🛠️ Use a bucket, plastic tote, or deep container for the nutrient reservoir.
🛠️ Drill small holes in the bottom of the growing tray to allow the wicks to pass through.
Step 2: Set Up the Wicks
🪢 Cut 2-4 thick cotton, felt, or nylon wicks (each around 12-18 inches long).
🪢 Insert the wicks through the holes, ensuring they extend into the nutrient reservoir.
Step 3: Choose & Add the Growing Medium
🌱 Use a light, moisture-retaining medium like coco coir, perlite, or vermiculite.
🌱 Avoid heavy soils, as they restrict oxygen flow to the roots.
Step 4: Fill the Reservoir & Plant
💧 Mix and add the hydroponic nutrient solution to the reservoir.
💧 Ensure wicks are fully submerged so they continuously absorb nutrients.
💧 Plant seedlings or seeds into the growing medium.
Step 5: Monitor & Maintain
🔎 Check moisture levels and refill the reservoir as needed.
🔎 Flush the system with clean water every 2 weeks to prevent salt buildup.
👉 Prefer watching over reading?
These video guides walks you through setting up an Wick Hydroponic System in a few simple steps!
Wick System Maintenance & Best Practice
🟢 Keep the Wicks Clean – Rinse them occasionally to prevent clogging.
🟢 Monitor Nutrient Levels – Replenish the reservoir every 1-2 weeks.
🟢 Avoid Over-Saturation – If the growing medium is too wet, reduce the number of wicks.
🟢 Optimize Wick Placement – Ensure wicks are close to plant roots for better nutrient absorption.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Wick Hydroponics
✅ Pros:
✔ No electricity required – Fully passive system.
✔ Easy to set up – Simple materials and DIY-friendly.
✔ Minimal maintenance – No moving parts to monitor.
✔ Cost-effective – One of the cheapest hydroponic systems.
❌ Cons:
✖ Limited plant selection – Best for small plants like herbs and lettuce.
✖ Slower nutrient delivery – Not suitable for fast-growing or high-nutrient-demand crops.
✖ Risk of water stagnation – Without proper maintenance, salt buildup and root rot can occur.
Is a Wick System Right for You?
The Wick System is a fantastic choice for beginners or those looking for a low-cost, electricity-free hydroponic setup. While it lacks the speed and efficiency of more advanced systems, it’s an excellent entry point into hydroponics.
If you’re growing herbs, leafy greens, or microgreens, this system provides a hassle-free and sustainable way to cultivate plants indoors.
🔎 Want to explore more hydroponic methods? Check out our guides on Deep Water Culture (DWC) and Nutrient Film Technique (NFT).
