🌿 NFT grow channel 100 x 50 mm : the go-to profile for thin-film growing
The NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) grow channel is the core component of a thin-film hydroponic system. The nutrient solution flows through it as a water film just a few millimetres deep, running over the roots before returning to the reservoir. Benefits : very low water and nutrient use, excellent root oxygenation (the roots are partly exposed to air), simple maintenance.
The 100 x 50 mm format (10 cm wide x 5 cm high) is the standard for hobby and semi-pro NFT, perfectly suited to growing lettuce, chard, herbs, strawberries and light leafy plants. The 5 cm height limits root depth to about 3 cm, which pushes the plant to develop a dense, productive root system.
📊 Technical specifications
- Channel dimensions : 100 x 50 mm (width x height)
- Length : 2 metres per channel
- Lid : clip-on, drilled for 5 cm net pots
- Net pot spacing : 10 cm on the standard lid
- Material : white food-grade PVC
- Recommended slope : 1 to 2 percent (2 to 4 cm over 2 m)
- Country of origin : Italy
📦 Which pack size to choose
The single x1 unit is ideal for replacing a damaged channel or starting a small experimental setup. The x8 pack matches exactly the volume needed for a 2 m x 1 m NFT module on 4 levels, the classic grow box format. The x16 pack is designed for a market-garden or semi-pro installation : 2 complete NFT modules or a dedicated greenhouse.
The channels can be cut to the desired length with a fine-blade jigsaw or a sturdy utility knife.
🔧 Installation and maintenance
The channel is installed on a structure sloped at 1-2 percent : a drop of 2 to 4 cm over the 2 m length is enough to ensure continuous flow with no stagnation. The solution enters at the top through a 16 mm hose connected to a water pump, runs along the bottom of the channel, and returns to the reservoir by gravity.
Cleaning every 2 to 4 cycles : remove the lid, brush the inside, rinse. Annual disinfection with diluted peroxide (3 percent) to prevent biofilms.
💡 Pro tips : density and stacked growing
With the standard 10 cm spacing, you fit 20 plants per 2 m channel. To gain production height, stack 3 to 4 levels of channels on vertical supports : you reach 60-80 plants per square metre, the sweet spot of an NFT market-garden greenhouse.
Limits to respect : plan sufficient lighting for each level (100 W/m² horticultural LED per tier), and check that the water pump can push up to the highest channel without a noticeable drop in flow.
