Here is a Detailed Three Step Description of Ebb and Flow Mat's Irrigating Principals

STEP ONE:
Drip-Tapes deliver water to the sides of the specially designed three-layered nursery irrigation system. Water is evenly and rapidly distributed throughout the system using the mat's central layer of non-woven geo-textile.  The bottom impervious layer contains the water to avoid leakage, while the top layer of mat both protects the geo-textile and minimizes loss of water to the air.

STEP TWO:
When pots or trays are placed on the mat, the downward pressure brings water through the ground cover and into contact with the pots, causing water to rise into contact with media at the bottom and side vents.  Capillary action then takes the water to the root zone of plants. The top surface of media remains dry for all or most of the time, inhibiting growth of weeds and algae.

STEP THREE:
When irrigation is turned off, drainage begins, and pots are rapidly returned to favorable air filled porosity. The KISSS Ebb and Flow Mat system is suitable for plants contained in plug trays or large pots.  Larger containers can be used with KISSS Ebb and Flow capillary mat if mature roots have already been established.

The Ebb and Flow MAT system is surprisingly simple and easy to understand.  It comprises a three-layered mat and a regulated water supply built into the edges of the mat. 

When connected to external water, the central capillary layer of the mat distributes the water evenly throughout the mat.  The lower layer of impervious plastic prevents the water from escaping, and the top layer, made of ground cover (weed mat), sits above the water providing a barrier against evaporation.

The capillary geo textile layer instantaneously adjusts to the soil conditions. The Ebb and Flow Mat irrigation system constantly adjust to wet and dry soil conditions and directs water to dry soil. Plants grown on the Ebb and Flow Mat have been scientifically proven to grow faster and produce higher yields.

When pots are placed on the Ebb and Flow Mat, the top layer is brought into contact with the capillary layer and water is forced up directly under the pot and around the rim of the pot.  This allows water to rise through the bottom and/or side drainage holes of the pot up into the root zones of the plants.  Ebb and Flow MAT is normally automated through use of timers and solenoids.