In deep water culture (DWC), nutrient-rich water is circulated at a depth of about 8 inches while rafts (usually polystyrene) float on top. In a high density raft board, plants grow in various grow plugs, rockwool or growgrips that fit into the raft board. The plant roots hang down in the nutrient-rich, oxygenated water, which contribute to rapid growth conditions.

For example, this method is the most common for large commercial aquaponic and hydroponic operations growing leafy green crops such as lettuce, kale, chard, mustard, collards, basil, mint and most herbs. Although most aquaponic farms employee DWC systems, rafts can be added to extend the function of media bed aquaponic systems.

Product Details

The high density raft board is made from food grade polystyrene, and designed specifically for leafy green crop production.

These raft boards are 2’x4′ in size and have 162 holes per board which results in a fully planted density of 20.25 plants per sq ft. The boards are excellent for all leafy greens, baby greens, transplants and lettuce production.

1″ plugs fit directly into the 1″ tapered hole without falling through. Therefore, there is no need for additional net pots with media. Save the time and mess of cutting holes into Dow insulation blue board.

We’ve been growing successfully on these boards at our aquaponics farm for years and they are simply fantastic! These work great in any hobby scale or commercial scale system.

• 49″ Long
• 24″ Wide
• 1″ Thick
• 1″ x 1″ planting space

These 128-plug grow trays are 1″ x 1″ and fit perfectly in the raft boards, towers, and all media beds. The plugs are made with a combination of coco coir, peat, and a cellulose binder that ensures the plug stays together around the roots through the point of harvest. Seedlings grown in these plugs have a high germination rate, good growth rates, and don’t require any pH adjustment.

Plugs are not included are must be purchased separately.

RaftCaps cover water that’s been exposed from empty planting spaces. They fit perfectly inside any 1″ x 1″ raft board planting space, especially the 28-hole and 162-hole Beaver rafts.

RaftCaps are sold separately and can be purchased here.