Wick System
A passive system in which a capillary wick draws nutrient solution from a reservoir up into the growing medium. No pumps or moving parts — solution uptake is driven entirely by the plant's demand and the wick's absorbency.
Specs
- Setup cost
- $10–40
- Monthly op cost
- $0–5
- Footprint
- 1–2 sqft
- Typical draw
- 0 W (peak 0 W)
Strengths
- Zero electricity
- No moving parts
- Forgiving for beginners
- Works during power outages
Weaknesses
- Wick delivery limits plant size
- Uneven moisture in larger setups
- Slow growth relative to active systems
- Unsuitable for high demand crops
Best for
- Lettuce
- Basil
- Microgreens
Linked names lead to a full hydroponic guide for that plant. Unlinked names will activate as those plants are added.
Compatible plant categories
- Leafy Greens
- Herbs
- Microgreen
Required equipment
- Reservoir
- Growing container
- Capillary wick
- Growing medium
- Ph meter
- Ec meter
Sources
Data on this page is drawn from the following extension and research sources.
- Penn State Extension — Hydroponic Systems (accessed 2026-04-22)
- UF IFAS Extension — Hydroponic Systems (EDIS) (accessed 2026-04-22)