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 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 KEFM system is suitable for plants contained in plug trays or pots up to large containers. Larger containers can be used with KEFM if mature roots have already been established; earlier use is limited by the type of potting media. |
