Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is a type of hydroponic system that was first developed in the 1960s by Dr. Allen Cooper, a Scientist at England's Glasshouse Crops Research Institute. Dr. Cooper was looking for a way to grow plants hydroponically using a continuous flow of nutrient-rich water, and he came up with the idea of NFT.

The concept of NFT involves growing plants in channels or gutters with a thin film of nutrient-rich water flowing over the roots. The water is constantly recirculated, which provides the plants with a steady supply of nutrients and oxygen. The roots are also exposed to the air, allowing them to absorb oxygen and prevent waterlogging.

Dr. Cooper's original NFT system was used to grow lettuce and strawberries, and it quickly gained popularity among commercial hydroponic growers. The system was found to be highly efficient and produced larger yields of crops compared to traditional soil-based farming.

In the 1970s, NFT was further developed and refined by hydroponic pioneers like Dr. Nick Savvas and Dr. Peter Mason. They experimented with different types of channels, pumps, and nutrient solutions to optimize the NFT system for various types of plants.

Today, NFT is one of the most popular hydroponic systems for commercial and hobbyist growers. It is used to grow a wide range of plants, including lettuce, herbs, strawberries, and tomatoes. Its efficiency, ease of use, and low maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for anyone interested in hydroponic gardening.

Advantages:

• Suitable for a wide range of plants
• Easy to maintain
• High oxygen levels to the roots

Disadvantages:

• May require frequent monitoring of nutrient levels
• Not suitable for large plants