Ebb and Flood

This facility allows controlled flood watering of container grown subjects via a system of closed storage tanks, header tanks and return pumps. Water fills the butyl-lined beds to a preset level by gravity. Once irrigation is complete, excess water is pumped back into the storage tanks. This system suits plants with a large leaf canopy which would deflect a large proportion of overhead irrigation. In principle, liquid feeding can be included in the irrigation water.

The Ebb and Flood system was set up as part of a Horticulture Technology Project on raising trees from seed in 'Rootrainer' modules.