Cover everything except the plant, place containers under shelter where you can, and check levels after heavy rain. Rain doesn’t just dilute the solution: it can refill the air gap that the upper roots depend on.
Why Rain Matters for Kratky
In the Kratky method the solution level drops as the plant drinks, and roots in the gap above breathe air. If rain tops the container back up, those roots end up underwater and can rot.
Cover the Openings
- Use containers with lids, and make sure net cups fit snugly.
- Tape over or plug any unused holes.
- A collar of plastic or a small skirt around the stem helps shed water away from the net cup.
Use Shelter
Under a balcony above, an awning or an overhang, containers still get light but less rain. Moving containers takes a minute if they’re on a tray or trolley.
After Heavy Rain
Look at the level. If it has risen into the air gap, remove some solution to bring it back down. If a lot of rain got in, the solution will be weaker; for a long-season plant you can replace it with fresh solution at the lower level.
Related guide: growing Kratky on a balcony or patio.
