Hybrid aquaponics–hydroponics • NFT grow pipes

The Barrett Hybridized NFT approach

A modular PVC grow-pipe NFT configuration that integrates aquaponics and hydroponics for resilience, efficiency, and high-output leafy crop production.

Lettuce growing densely in NFT pipes
NFT channels High-density leafy greens in a recirculating system.

Why this design works

Designed to strengthen climate resilience, reduce water and nutrient waste and stay operational through common shocks like short power interruptions. Most of all, it is highly productive and natural.

Resilience

Built-in buffering and staged filtration.

Efficiency

Low-water, high-output system logic.

Scalable

Modular layout supports incremental expansion.

Core idea

The system recycles nutrient-rich fish water through biological filtration, converting ammonia into plant-available nitrate, then delivers a controlled nutrient film to plant roots in PVC channels.


Best suited for: short-cycle leafy vegetables and herbs (lettuce, pak choy, basil, etc.).