A MECHANISM FOR CONTROLLED CONTINUOUS FLOW OF NUTRIENT SOLUTIONS

The apparatus for continuously renewing nutrient solutions described in this paper is a modification of Shive's device.2 It is essentially a closed system, difficult for dirt to enter, and has a minimum of free surfaces from which evaporation may occur to concentrate the nutrients. "While Shive's apparatus has a capacity of 2 or 3 liters and requires daily refilling with consequent disturbing of the siphons, the present device holds at least 38 liters and the reserve nutrient may be renewed repeatedly without upsetting the rate of flow. It is practically self starting, more compact and more rugged than other devices, and is suitable for use in exposed places and in the field.