Ebb an Flow or Flood and Drain is a form of hydroponics that is known for its simplicity, reliability of operation, and low initial investment, while providing the advantages of hydroponics. Also called 'E&F', it is a system of arranging pots filled with inert media which do not function like soil, contributing nutrition to the plants; rather, the medium anchors the roots and functions as a temporary reserve of water and solvent mineral nutrients as the hydroponic solution is alternately flooded and allowed to ebb.