Optimise Your Flow: Professional NFT Spreader Matting

In a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system, the success of your crop depends on how effectively the nutrient solution interacts with the root zone. Without the right medium, water can “channel” into narrow streams, leaving large sections of the root mat dry and hungry. Spreader matting solves this problem by breaking the surface tension of the water, ensuring a perfectly even film of nutrition across the entire grow tray.

At The Horticulture Company, we supply high-absorbency spreader matting designed specifically for active hydroponic systems. Whether you are running a small Gro-Tank or a large-scale Multi-Duct system, our matting provides the essential “wicking” action that keeps your plants hydrated, aerated, and growing at their maximum velocity.

How Spreader Matting Enhances Your NFT System

Spreader matting acts as a bridge between your delivery tube and your plant’s roots. Because it is manufactured from a fine, porous fleece, it draws the nutrient solution across the full width of the channel. Consequently, every root has equal access to food and oxygen, preventing “hot spots” or nutrient deficiencies.

Key advantages of using premium spreader matting include:

• Elimination of Channelling: Water naturally follows the path of least resistance. However, spreader matting forces the solution to spread out. Therefore, you avoid the dry patches that can lead to root death and stunted growth.

• Rapid Root Colonisation: Because the matting stays consistently moist but highly oxygenated, roots quickly “knit” into the fabric. This creates a thick, healthy root mat that can absorb nutrients much more efficiently than bare-rooted plants in a slick tray.

• Quiet System Operation: If the “trickle” of returning water is too loud, you can extend the matting so it drapes down into the reservoir. As a result, the water flows silently down the fabric, making your hydroponic setup much more discreet.

Best Practices for Installation and Maintenance

To get the most out of your NFT system, you must use spreader matting correctly. While it is a simple product, small adjustments in how you lay it can significantly impact your final yield.

1. Correct Laying Technique

You should always lay your matting in a single layer. Although it might be tempting to use multiple layers for extra absorption, this can actually restrict water flow and cause “pooling.” Furthermore, ensure that your rockwool cubes are placed directly onto the damp matting. Because this creates an immediate capillary bond, your plants will transition from propagation to the main system without any transplant shock.

2. When to Replace Your Matting

Because NFT systems are recirculating, organic matter and mineral salts will eventually build up within the fleece. Consequently, we strongly recommend replacing your spreader matting after every single grow cycle. Starting with fresh, sterile matting is the easiest way to prevent the spread of root pathogens like Pythium between crops.

Why Trust The Horticulture Company?

Since 2017, we have been the go-to specialists for hydroponic growers in the West Midlands and beyond. We understand that even the smallest components, like spreader matting, play a huge role in your success. Therefore, we only stock genuine Nutriculture matting and other high-grade equivalents that are proven to be non-toxic and rot-proof.

If you are unsure how many rolls you need for your specific tray size, or if you need advice on setting the perfect slope for your NFT system, our expert team is ready to help. You can call us on 01926 511151 or visit our Kenilworth store for a professional consultation.

Maximise your root health today. Browse our range of NFT spreader matting below for fast, discreet UK delivery.