FOREWORD No.10 // 2024
Welcome to our spring edition, green thumbs! As we tussle with extreme weather across the country, it’s clear that Mother Nature is keeping us on our toes. But fear not! This issue is all about taking care of your growing environment, whether you’re cultivating indoors or making the most of a sunny balcony or backyard.
We’ll show you how CANNA’s range of products can help you create optimal conditions for your plants, no matter the weather. We’ll also dive into our guides on growing sunflowers and corn, and discover the magic of CANNAZYM, a game-changer for plant health. So get ready to spring into action and grow your way to gardening success! Plus, we explore green-thumbed pressie ideas.
Exciting news! A new CANNA website is coming soon! Stay tuned for our fresh-look, easier-to-use website, chock-a-block with reviews, how-tos and ways-to-use CANNA products.
If you have a question, query, or comment—please get in touch! You can find us in the questions section at www.canna.co.nz.
Happy gardening!
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
In the world of gardening and plant cultivation, success often lies in the details. While quality soil, good sunlight, and proper watering are fundamental, savvy growers know that plant additives can make a significant difference in overall plant health and yield. These specialised products, such as boosters, enzyme formulas, and nutrient enhancers, work to optimise plant growth at a cellular level.
NURTURING NATURE: THE POWER OF PLANT ADDITIVES
By supporting essential processes like nutrient uptake, root development, and stress resistance, they help plants reach their full potential. In this article, we explore some of CANNA’s game-changing additives that are revolutionising the way we grow. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or a budding enthusiast, these products promise to take your garden to new heights.
KICKSTART YOUR GARDEN WITH CANNABOOST ACCELERATOR
CANNABOOST Accelerator is changing the game for plant enthusiasts. This universal flowering stimulator works with all growing systems and substrates, promising not just higher yields but also enhanced flavour profiles in fruits and vegetables. By stimulating new flower development and promoting gradual ripening, CANNABOOST ensures a more uniform harvest.
But what really sets CANNABOOST apart is its ability to enhance a plant’s metabolism, making it more resistant to diseases. When used in combination with CANNA PK 13/14, growers can expect a remarkable synergistic effect as increased nutrient availability and energy regulation leads to lavish blooms and higher yields.
Unlike traditional boosters that are merely additional nutrients, CANNABOOST represents a new generation of plant enhancers. It increases photosynthesis, leading to higher sugar production, and sweeter, more aromatic produce.
BOOST YOUR BLOOMS WITH CANNA PK 13/14
Gardeners seeking spectacular blooms and bountiful harvests need look no further than CANNA PK 13/14. This premium blend of phosphorus and potassium is designed to stimulate flowering in all types of plants, regardless of the growing medium.
CANNA PK 13/14 delivers a powerful punch of essential nutrients at a critical stage in plant development. Phosphorus strengthens flower formation and plays a key role in energy transfer, while potassium ensures robust plant structure and efficient sugar production - vital for flower development.
What sets this product apart is its high concentration and quick availability to plants, thanks to CANNA’s special production process. For best results, apply CANNA PK 13/14 once to your nutrient reservoir at the onset of flowering.
NATURE’S ROOT BOOSTER: CANNA RHIZOTONIC
Give your plants the ultimate growth boost with CANNA RHIZOTONIC, a revolutionary natural root stimulator powered by algae and packed with over 60 microbiological substances. This versatile formula works wonders throughout your garden, from seed to harvest.
Want stronger cuttings and transplants? RHIZOTONIC’s blend of B1 and B2 vitamins stimulates hormone production and root development, resulting in robust, healthy white roots. For seeds, a diluted soak speeds germination by naturally softening the seed coating. Particularly valuable during plants’ vulnerable early weeks, RHIZOTONIC enhances overall plant strength and disease resistance. It’s also a proven stressbuster, helping plants recover quickly from transport shock or repotting when used as a foliar spray. Compatible with all growing mediums, from soil to hydroponic systems, RHIZOTONIC offers gardeners a natural way to nurture stronger, healthier plants.
UNLOCKING PLANT POTENTIAL: THE POWER OF CANNAZYM
CANNAZYM is a sophisticated blend of enzymes, vitamins, and desert plant extracts designed to break down dead root material, converting it into minerals and sugars that your plants can readily absorb – like an instant nutrient cocktail right in your growing medium!
CANNAZYM also stimulates the production of new roots, improving water and uptake for nutrients. This increased root development leads to stronger, healthier plants.
CANNAZYM also improves soil health, making it valuable for those who reuse growing substrates, as it helps prevent the buildup of harmful pathogens and ensures a clean slate for your next crop. As we dive into the heart of the growing season, why not give your plants the CANNAZYM advantage?
Try It Yourself: The CANNAZYM Two-Step Test
Curious about how CANNAZYM works? You can see its effects for yourself with these simple at-home experiments:
1. The Paper Test:
• Materials: Paper strips, water, CANNAZYM
• Method: Soak paper strips in water. Add CANNAZYM to one set, leave the other as a control. Observe over time.
• Result: CANNAZYM-treated paper should break down faster, demonstrating its ability to break down cellulose - the main component of plant cell walls.
2. The Applesauce
Experiment:
• Materials: Applesauce, CANNAZYM
• Method: Divide applesauce into two portions. Add CANNAZYM to one, leave the other as control. Observe over time.
• Result: The CANNAZYM-treated portion should become more liquid as the enzymes break down cell clusters, illustrating how it can increase nutrient availability for plants.
These simple tests offer a glimpse into CANNAZYM’s powerful enzymatic action. For more details, check out the CANNAZYM Twostep Test video online!
As spring unfolds across Australia, it’s time turn our attention to crops that thrive in the warm sunlight and rising temperatures. Two gorgeous plants that epitomise the bounty of spring and summer are corn and sunflowers. These towering beauties not only add a magnificent touch to any garden but also offer delicious harvests and numerous health benefits. Growing corn and sunflowers is a rewarding experience that really connects you to the rhythm of the seasons – and if you’ve got kids, it’s a great way to get them into gardening. In this guide, we’ll explore how to successfully cultivate these sun-loving plants in your own backyard, from seed to harvest.
SUNFLOWERS
Towering giants of the garden, sunflowers bring a burst of cheerful burst of yellow to any space. Native to North America, these sun-worshipping plants were first cultivated by indigenous peoples around 3,000 BCE, and are still prized for their seeds, oil, and striking appearance to this day.
Rich in vitamin E, selenium, and healthy fats, sunflower seeds are nutritious snacks. The flowers themselves are edible too, with a nutty, bittersweet flavour perfect for salads. Sunflowers belong to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and chrysanthemums.
Popular varieties in Australia include Russian Mammoth, Sunbird, and dwarf types like Teddy Bear.
GROW IT YOURSELF
GROW ME
Plant sunflower seeds directly into well-drained soil in spring or early summer, when soil temperatures reach 15°C. Choose a sunny spot and space seeds 30-60cm apart, depending on the variety. You can even pop them in a pot—just make sure they’re in a sunny spot with a topquality potting mix, like CANNA Terra Professional.
FEED ME
Water sunflowers regularly and feed with balanced fertilisers such as CANNA Terra Vega and Terra Flores.
GROWING TIPS
Sunflowers are relatively low-maintenance and fastgrowing, reaching maturity in 80-120 days. They make excellent companion plants for corn and cucumbers but keep them away from potatoes.
CORN
Sweet, juicy, and bursting with summer flavour, corn is a beloved staple in many Australian gardens and kitchens. It was one of the first crops planted by European settlers in 1788, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became widely cultivated.
GROW ME
Corn is a warm-season crop that thrives in full sun. It’s best planted from September to January in southern regions, and February to April in northern areas. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Prepare the bed by mixing in compost and well-aged manure. Plant seeds directly in the garden, 2-3 cm deep and 30-40 cm apart, in blocks
GROW IT YOURSELF
of at least four rows to ensure good pollination (corn is wind-pollinated). Water regularly, especially when the tassels appear, and the cobs are forming. Corn is typically ready for harvest in 10-14 weeks when the silks have turned brown, and the kernels release a milky juice when pierced.
FEED ME
Corn is a heavy feeder. Start with rich, well-prepared soil, then side-dress with a nitrogen-rich liquid fertiliser—like CANNA Terra Vega—when the plants are knee-high and again when they start to tassel.
GROWING TIPS
• Plant corn in blocks rather than long single rows to improve pollination.
• Mulch well to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Companion plant with beans, pumpkins, and squash (the traditional “Three Sisters” method).
• Avoid planting near tomatoes, as they can attract the same pests.
GRILLED CORN WITH HERB BUTTER AND CHILLI
Ingredients
• 4 corn cobs, husks removed
• 100g softened butter
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped mixed herbs (coriander, chives, mint)
Method
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chilli powder to taste
• Lime wedges for serving
1. Mix the softened butter with herbs, garlic,salt, and pepper.
2. Boil in a deep pot for 3 minutes, until tender.
3. Preheat your barbecue or grill pan to mediumhigh heat.
4. Grill the corn for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and immediately spread with the herb butter.
6. Serve with lime wedges and a sprinkle of chilli and enjoy your taste of summer!
Celebrating 30 years
We asked some of our longest-serving CANNA Australia –New Zealand staff what their favourite CANNA moments have been over 30 years of revolutionising the horticultural space Down Under.
“WHAT’S
YOUR FAVOURITE CANNA MOMENT?”
“The personal touch, I think. I love the regular visits to customers to provide the latest horticultural advice.”
“40+ years of scientific exploration and rigorous product testing”
“Exciting promotions like the Harley Davidson giveaway”
“Sponsoring the Rolling Stones Awards and Groovefest!”
“Knowing that we’re preferred in over 95% of grow shops worldwide”
“Future-focused investments in technology and personnel”
“Informative promotional materials that help customers make informed choices”
“I love the Mega CANNA Resource Website and YouTube Channel packed with valuable content”
“New product lines and enhanced packaging always keep things fresh and on the cutting edge”
“Building a community. It’s great fostering growth for retailers and trust for consumers”
“The thrill of seeing your plants thrive with CANNA products”
“Learning from Dutch growing expertise”
“Helping customers feel empowered and confident in their growing journeys”
“Witnessing the evolution of the brand and its products over time”
As one of New Zealand’s pioneer grow shops and one of the first importers of the Canna range back in 2001, HydroGarden has been in the hydroponic business for over 30 years! Started in 1990 by Gary McNeill, HydroGarden (originally Hydroponic Supplies) is now run by his grandson, Kane McNeill, who has literally grown up in the shop and in the hydroponic industry! With that comes a wealth of knowledge and customer service dedicated to getting people up and growing. The HydroGarden team are not just Canna specialists, but indoor grading specialists – with a full range of tents, lights, fans and filters, stepping into precision irrigation and commercial consults. From getting your monstera in your bedroom healthy again, 4 lights in your garage, or equipping a 200 square metre facility, HydroGarden are there to get you growing.
Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturdays 10am-1pm
GROWING GREEN:
Plant parents! Are you scratching your head trying to figure out what to serve up to your little green babies? Sometimes, choosing the right substrates and nutrients can feel trickier than pronouncing ‘Chrysanthemum’ after a few garden party cocktails. But fear not, it’s time to dish about CANNA’s smorgasbord of fabulous products and what they do best.
CANNA TERRA:
FOR SOIL OR PEAT-BASED POTTING MIXES
If you’re growing in traditional potting soil or peat-based mixes, CANNA TERRA is your go-to nutrient line. It’s designed for both indoor and outdoor cultivation, making it versatile for various gardening setups.
KEY PRODUCTS:
1. CANNA Terra Professional: A nitrogen-rich potting mix that promotes exceptional root development.
2. Terra Vega: A nutrient for the vegetative phase, ensuring strong plants with vital shoots.
3. Terra Flores: Designed for the flowering phase, stimulating fruit formation and enhancing flavour.
HOW TO USE:
Start with CANNA Terra Professional as your growing medium. During the vegetative stage, use Terra Vega. Switch to Terra Flores when your plants begin to flower. This line is perfect for beginners due to its ease of use and forgiving nature.
CANNA COCO: FOR COCO COIR
ENTHUSIASTS
Coco coir has gained popularity for its excellent water retention and aeration properties. CANNA COCO is specifically formulated for this substrate.
KEY PRODUCTS:
1. CANNA Coco Professional: A lightly buffered, 100% coco flakes medium.
2. CANNA Coco Professional Plus: A fully buffered coco medium for more consistent results.
3. CANNA Coco A & B: A two-part nutrient solution for both growth and flowering stages.
HOW TO USE: Choose either Coco Professional or Professional Plus as your growing medium. Throughout the plant’s life cycle, use CANNA Coco A & B nutrients, adjusting the ratio as needed for vegetative growth or flowering. Remember to always add part A before part B to prevent nutrient lockout.
CANNA AQUA: FOR RECIRCULATING
HYDROPONIC
SYSTEMS
For those who love hydroponics, CANNA AQUA is designed for recirculating systems like NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) or ebb and flow setups.
KEY PRODUCTS:
1. CANNA Aqua Clay Pebbles: An ideal substrate for hydroponic systems.
2. Aqua Vega: Nutrient solution for the growing phase.
3. Aqua Flores: Nutrient solution for the flowering phase.
HOW TO USE: Fill your hydroponic system with CANNA Aqua Clay Pebbles. Use Aqua Vega during the vegetative stage, then switch to Aqua Flores when flowering begins. This line is known for its precise nutrient control and user-friendly pH stability.
CANNA CLASSIC: FOR RUN-TO-WASTE SYSTEMS
If you’re using a system where drainage water isn’t recirculated, CANNA Classic is the ideal choice. It’s particularly suited for inert substrates like rockwool.
KEY PRODUCTS:
1. Classic Vega: Nutrient for the growing phase.
2. Classic Flores: Nutrient for the flowering phase.
HOW TO USE:
Use Classic Vega during vegetation and switch to Classic Flores for flowering in your inert substrate-based run-to-waste system. This line allows for precise control over nutrient delivery, making it popular among experienced growers.
CANNA CALMAG AGENT: THE WATER CONDITIONER
For growers dealing with soft water or using reverse osmosis systems, CANNA CALMAG Agent is a crucial addition to your nutrient regimen.
HOW TO USE:
Add CANNA CALMAG Agent to your water before mixing in other nutrients. It’s particularly beneficial when using CANNA COCO products, helping to stabilise pH and prevent calcium and magnesium deficiencies.
ADDITIVES: BOOSTING PLANT
PERFORMANCE
Regardless of your chosen growing medium or nutrient line, CANNA’s additives can enhance plant health and yields:
1. CANNAZYM: An enzyme product that breaks down dead root material, activates beneficial microorganisms, and increases disease resistance.
2. RHIZOTONIC: A powerful root stimulator, ideal for promoting rapid and healthy root development.
3. CANNABOOST: A metabolism booster that increases nutrient uptake and overall plant performance.
4. PK 13/14: A flowering stimulator that can be used with any growing medium to enhance bloom quality.
HOW TO USE: These additives can be incorporated into your feeding schedule according to the plant’s growth stage and specific needs. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage and timing.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT LINE FOR YOUR GARDEN
When selecting a CANNA nutrient line, consider your growing medium and system:
For soil or peat-based mixes: CANNA TERRA
For coco coir: CANNA COCO
For hydroponic systems: CANNA AQUA
For run-to-waste systems with inert substrates: CANNA CLASSIC
Remember, each line is optimised for its specific growing medium, so mixing and matching across lines is not recommended.
CANNA’s diverse product lines offer tailored solutions for various growing methods, from traditional soil to advanced hydroponic systems. By matching the right nutrient line to your chosen substrate and incorporating CANNA’s powerful additives, you’re setting the stage for healthy, vigorous plants and impressive harvests. And with attention to detail and the right nutrients, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master grower.
Happy gardening!
US AND WIN
Just answer some questions on our website! Scan the QR code for details.
INSIDE CANNA
ROCKERS REJOICE: GROOVEFEST TURNS 10
Groovefest, Canterbury’s underground music extravaganza, hit double digits on the 2nd of November! For a decade, this ‘Riff Worship’ event has been the beating heart of New Zealand’s rock scene. CANNA, a proud sponsor since 2018, has helped Groovefest grow from a local gig to a national phenomenon. The festival showcases the cream of Kiwi talent, and as Groovefest enters its tenth year, CANNA’s continued support ensures the beat goes on, louder and stronger than ever!
This year, the team were proud to be celebrate a Decade of Riffs with an EPIC lineup (think Pull Down the Sun, Elidi, Pieces Of Molly, SCROOGE, Witchcult, Borer, Caldera and more), at the brandnew Tombstone HQ and a huge day of live music, food, and good ‘tudes.
QUESTIONS
A: When it comes to knowing when to give your plants nutrients to boost their flowering, it’s all about understanding your plants’ natural cycles and mimicking nature. Here’s what you need to know:
Q: How do I know when to start giving my plants
CANNA’s flower-boosting nutrients like Terra Flores or Aqua Flores?
For outdoor plants, it’s pretty straightforward.
Summer-flowering plants like tomatoes and chillies will start to bloom as the days get longer in spring. On the other hand, autumn/winter
flowering plants like citrus and brassicas will begin flowering as the days shorten. Mother Nature takes care of the timing for you, so just follow her lead!
For indoor gardeners, it’s a bit trickier. You’re playing the role of Mother Nature, so you’ll need to manipulate the light cycle to trigger flowering. Here’s what to do:
1. For summer-flowering plants: Increase the amount of light they receive daily.
2. For autumn/winter flowering plants: Decrease their daily light exposure.
At the first actual sign of flowering (averaging 10-14 days), start with the flowering nutrients. One exception to this rule is auto-flowering plants. These will flower regardless of light changes, so you can start with flowering nutrients based on the plant’s age or size.
Remember, plants are responsive to these environmental cues, so by mimicking natural light changes and following up with the right nutrients, you’ll set your plants up for a fantastic flowering season!
Happy Gardening!
