Farming in the UAE is not a very simple task. Reason? The heat is strong, water is not easily available, and the soil is often not good enough for regular crop growing. Because of this, many growers find it difficult to grow fresh produce in a stable way, especially throughout the year. This is why people are slowly moving towards hydroponics in UAE. These systems use much less water and give more control over how plants grow. One method that comes up often is the nutrient film technique (NFT). It is mostly used for leafy greens and herbs and is now common in modern hydroponic farming systems and vertical farming systems.
In this article, we will look at NFT hydroponics in a simple way. What it is, how it works, where it fits well in the UAE, and where it does not. We will also compare it with other systems so you can understand if an NFT hydroponic system.
What Is Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) Hydroponics?
The nutrient film technique refers to a technique used for growing plants without soil. In this system, plant roots sit inside narrow channels instead of soil beds. A thin layer of water mixed with nutrients flows through these channels and touches the roots.
This thin flow is the reason it is called an NFT hydroponic system.The roots receive water and nutrients; however, the roots are not completely immersed. Air can still reach them. This balance helps plants grow well, especially leafy crops.
And if you are wondering how an NFT hydroponic system works, the answer is quite easy. The water moves from a reservoir through a channel and back into the reservoir again. The same water keeps circulating. Because of this, NFT hydroponics uses less water compared to soil farming and many other hydroponic farming systems.
Why NFT Hydroponic Systems Work Well in the UAE
Farming in the UAE is not easy. High temperatures, limited water, and poor soil make traditional farming difficult. This is where NFT hydroponic systems start to make sense.
An NFT hydroponic system in UAE is quite effective as it is water conserving. Less water is wasted, and this is a major factor as UAE has arid conditions. Such systems are also suitable for installation within greenhouses as they can maintain temperatures and humidity levels.
Another reason why farmers like using NFT hydroponics is space. The channels can be arranged in rows or stacked, which works well with vertical farming systems. For growers looking at modern hydroponics in UAE, NFT offers a clean and controlled way to grow crops without relying on soil conditions.
How an NFT Hydroponic System Is Set Up
An NFT hydroponic system is simple in design. It does not require soil, extensive beds, and complicated structures Once you understand the basic setup, the system is easy to follow and manage.
Main Parts of an NFT System
Every NFT hydroponic system has a few basic parts.
- Grow channels: These are long, narrow pipes or channels where plants are placed. The roots hang inside them.
- Nutrient tank: This is the tank that contains the water with added nutrients. Most setups will have the channels sitting on top of it.
- Water pump: This pump pushes nutrient water from the tank into the channels.
- Return line: Water, following across the channels, goes into a tank for recycling.
- Net pots and plants: Plants sit in small net pots placed on top of the channels. The roots grow downward into the flowing water.
These parts together form the base of most NFT hydroponic farming setups.
How Water and Nutrients Move in Nutrient Film Technique
The working of the NFT hydroponic system can be explained by focusing on the flow of water.
The pump sends a thin stream of nutrient water into the grow channels, and this flows slowly along the bottom of each channel. It touches the roots, then moves back into the tank.
Only a thin layer of water flows at a time. Their roots are not completely submerged in water. These roots receive both nutrition and oxygen this way. Such a ratio is what makes NFT hydroponics so successful in growth rate.
Because the same water keeps circulating, NFT systems use less water than many other hydroponic farming systems, which is useful in hot and dry regions like the UAE.
Crops That Grow Best in NFT Hydroponics in UAE
Not every crop suits the nutrient film technique. NFT works best for plants that grow fast, stay light, and do not develop heavy roots. In the UAE, this matters even more because temperature and water control are key.
Leafy Greens Suitable for NFT
Leafy vegetables are the most popular ones grown through NFT hydroponics.
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Arugula
- Kale
- Swiss chard
The root systems of these plants are small, and their growing periods are short. They respond well to constant nutrient flow and controlled conditions. This is why NFT hydroponic systems in UAE are widely used for commercial leafy green production.
Herbs That Perform Well in NFT
Many herbs also grow well in an NFT hydroponic system.
- Basil
- Mint
- Coriander
- Parsley
- Dill
Herbs stay relatively light and do not need deep root space. They grow evenly in the channels, and harvesting is easy. For vegetable gardeners who implement hydroponic farming systems in greenhouses, herbs are a crop of choice.
Crops That Are Not Ideal for NFT
Some crops are better avoided in NFT systems.
- Plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, etc., which produce
- Root vegetables like carrots or potatoes
- Heavy plants that need strong support
These crops develop large roots or need more space and stability. In NFT systems, they can block water flow or stress the channels. For such crops, other hydroponic farming systems work better than NFT.
Water and Nutrient Management in NFT Systems
In NFT hydroponics, water does most of the work. It carries nutrients, keeps roots healthy, and supports plant growth. Because of this, water quality and basic monitoring are very important, especially in the UAE.
pH and EC Basics for NFT Hydroponics
In an NFT hydroponic system, plants depend fully on nutrient water.
- pH shows how acidic or alkaline the water is
- EC shows how strong the nutrient mix is
For most leafy greens and herbs, pH is usually kept between 5.5 and 6.5. EC levels depend on the crop, but they should not be too high. If EC rises too much, roots can get stressed.
In NFT hydroponics, checking pH and EC regularly helps plants absorb nutrients properly. It also helps avoid sudden growth problems.
Water Quality in UAE
Water quality is a major factor in the NFT hydroponic system in UAE. Many areas have water with high salt content. This can affect nutrient balance and plant health.
Because of this, growers tend to use filtered or RO water. They find it easier to manage their nutrients with cleaner water. There is also less sodium buildup in the water channels and pipes.
For long-term operation, having high-quality water ensures that NFT irrigation systems are manageable and dependable.
Controlling Temperature During the Hot Months
Heat is among the most significant factors affecting hydroponics in UAE.
When the nutrient water becomes too warm, it can cause a lack of oxygen in the roots. It can hinder growth and damage roots. In summer, it is essential for growers to maintain a constant water temperature using insulation or cooling systems.
In NFT systems, a little temperature in variation is considered to make all the difference. Keeping the water cool is better for plant health, even during peak summer conditions.
Common NFT Hydroponic Problems in UAE Conditions
A few problems are experienced by growers who use an NFT hydroponic system in UAE. Most of them are linked to heat, water quality, and system dependency on continuous flow.
- Power cuts and pump stoppage: NFT hydroponics depends on constant water movement. If the pump stops, roots can dry out fast. In UAE heat, even short power cuts can stress plants. This is one of the known disadvantages of NFT hydroponics in hot climates.
- High water temperature in summer: During peak summer months, nutrient water heats up quickly. Warm water holds less oxygen, which affects root health and slows plant growth. Managing this is critical for any NFT hydroponic system in UAE.
- Uneven water flow within channels: Poor leveling of channels or blocked lines makes the nutrients flow unevenly. Some plants grow well, while others struggle. This becomes more pronounced for large NFT setups.
- Roots blocking nutrient channels: As plants mature, roots can grow long and start blocking the flow of water. This reduces nutrient supply to plants further down the channel and needs regular checking.
- Salt buildup from local water: Water in many UAE regions has high mineral content. Over time, salts can build up in the system and disturb nutrient balance. This is a common concern when running hydroponics in UAE without proper water management.
These issues do not make NFT a poor choice. They simply mean the system needs attention and routine checks. Many growers still prefer NFT over other hydroponic farming systems because of its water efficiency and clean growing process.
NFT vs Other Hydroponic Systems in the UAE
When people explore hydroponic farming systems in the UAE, they often compare NFT with other popular setups. The most common comparisons are with DWC and drip systems. Each system works, but they behave differently in local conditions.
NFT vs DWC Hydroponics
Here is a simple comparison between NFT vs DWC hydroponics, based on how growers usually experience them.
| Aspect | NFT Hydroponic System | DWC Hydroponic System |
| Water movement | Thin, continuous flow | Roots sit in deep water |
| Oxygen to roots | Comes from air + flow | Needs air pumps all the time |
| Water usage | Very low | Higher than NFT |
| Heat impact | Sensitive to power cuts | Water heats up slower |
| Crop type | Best for leafy greens and herbs | Works for leafy greens too |
| Maintenance | Needs regular checks | Easier but bulkier |
| Fit for UAE | Good with control | Needs strong cooling |
In UAE heat, DWC water stays warm for longer, which can affect roots. NFT systems are lighter and cleaner, but they depend heavily on uninterrupted flow. This is why growers often weigh the advantages of NFT hydroponic system against its risks before choosing.
NFT vs Drip Systems
Drip systems are another common option, especially in commercial setups. Here is how NFT compares with drip irrigation in hydroponics.
| Aspect | NFT Hydroponics | Drip Hydroponic System |
| Growing method | Roots in channels | Plants in grow media |
| Crop focus | Leafy greens, herbs | Fruit crops and larger plants |
| System complexity | Simple layout | More components |
| Water control | Very precise | Depends on setup |
| Space usage | Works well vertically | Needs more space |
| Flexibility | Limited crop range | More crop options |
| Use in UAE | Common in greens | Used for tomatoes, cucumbers |
Drip systems are often chosen for fruiting crops. NFT hydroponics stays focused on greens and herbs. For growers working with vertical farming systems or limited space, NFT usually fits better.
How Skyfield Approaches NFT Hydroponic Systems
At Skyfield, the approach is simple. No two farms are treated the same. Conditions in the UAE change from place to place, so NFT systems are never planned on paper alone. Things like heat, water quality, crop type, and daily operation are looked at first. Only after that does the system design take shape. The idea is to keep it practical, not complicated.
This way of working helps growers choose what actually suits them, not just what looks good. Whether it is a small setup or a larger project, the focus stays on building NFT hydroponic systems that are stable and manageable in real conditions. That is how Skyfield supports growers looking for the best NFT hydroponic system for long-term use within modern hydroponics in UAE.
Conclusion
The nutrient film technique is a practical way to grow crops without soil, especially in tough climates like the UAE. When set up and managed properly, an NFT hydroponic system helps save water, use space better, and grow leafy greens efficiently. Like any system, it has its limits, but for the right crops and conditions, NFT hydroponics can be a strong option for modern farming.
Also Read : Best Hydroponic Growing System: Types, Benefits & How to Choose
FAQs
- How does an NFT hydroponic system work step by step?
An NFT hydroponic system works by allowing a thin stream of nutrient water to flow over plant roots inside channels. This moves in a continuous loop, so the root has both nutrients and air simultaneously. - Is NFT hydroponics suitable for the UAE climate?
Yes, NFT hydroponics can work well in the UAE if temperature and water quality are managed properly. Many growers use it inside greenhouses to handle heat and control growing conditions. - What are the main disadvantages of NFT hydroponics?
NFT systems depend on continuous water flow. If the pump stops or water gets too warm, plants can get stressed. This means regular checks are important.
