Capillary Hydroponics
Capillary Hydroponics represents one of the most sustainable and water-efficient solutions for natural turfgrass cultivation. Depending on climate conditions, the system delivers water savings of between 45% and 85% compared to conventional irrigation methods. In addition to significant water conservation, it produces stronger, more resilient turf with lower maintenance costs, improved durability, and enhanced resistance to local environmental stresses. The fully enclosed system also minimizes nutrient leaching in natural turf and eliminates the risk of microplastic contamination associated with artificial grass alternatives.
A Closed-Loop, Sub-Surface Irrigation System
At the core of the system is a fully sealed, enclosed design that irrigates turfgrass from below the surface. Water enriched with essential nutrients is delivered directly to the root zone in a fully oxygenated state. The irrigation water is continuously recycled and recirculated, creating a closed-loop system that drastically reduces water consumption while preventing nutrient runoff and environmental contamination.
This precise sub-surface delivery promotes optimal root development, improves plant health, and ensures consistent playing surfaces across a wide range of applications.
Root Zone Temperature Management
An additional advantage of Capillary Hydroponics is its ability to regulate root zone temperatures. In warmer climates, the system can cool the root zone, reducing heat stress and maintaining turf quality. In colder climates, it can increase soil temperatures to extend growing seasons and improve turf performance. In certain applications, the system can also be integrated with geothermal solutions to further enhance energy efficiency and environmental performance.
Versatile Applications
The system is highly adaptable and suitable for a wide range of environments, including:
- Municipal lawns and public parks
- Golf putting greens
- Grass tennis courts
- Equestrian sand turf arenas
- Football and multi-sport pitches
Its flexibility makes it an ideal solution for both public and private sector projects requiring durability, sustainability, and consistent surface performance.
Smart Monitoring with Capillary Flowtrack
All installations are supported by our proprietary software platform, Capillary Flowtrack, developed in-house specifically for this system. The platform enables comprehensive monitoring and control, including:
- Water level management
- Inlet control
- Electrical conductivity (EC) monitoring
- Water temperature tracking
- Salinity measurement
- Integration with local weather data and forecasting
By incorporating predictive weather analytics, the system continuously learns and optimizes its performance. This automation reduces reliance on highly specialized turf management expertise while maintaining consistently high standards of turf quality.
Installed Projects
Capillary Hydroponics has been successfully implemented in several high-profile locations.
In Angfarjeparken, Helsingborg, Sweden, the system was installed in a municipal lawn used for large public events, concerts, and high-volume traffic activities. It was selected over an artificial grass alternative due to its sustainability, performance, and environmental benefits.
At The Breakers, a five-star resort in West Palm Beach, Florida, four natural turf Capillary Hydroponic tennis courts have been installed. The resort, known for its high-end clientele and strong commitment to environmental stewardship, has received exceptionally positive feedback. The courts have been particularly well received by distinguished members of the international tennis community.
Another installation is at Forget Me Nott in Wellington, Florida, a natural turf riding arena located in an area with harsh growing conditions and poor-quality irrigation water. The project utilizes Zoysia grass, a highly resilient and hard-wearing species well suited to demanding equestrian environments.
Research and Industry Development
Capillary Hydroponics is also advancing the future of high-performance sports turf. Independent trials are currently being conducted by Michigan State University (MSU), one of the leading institutions in the United States for turfgrass research. Additional development initiatives are underway in collaboration with international sports organizations, including UEFA, to explore the next generation of sustainable, high-performance sports pitches worldwide.
