Garden Culture Magazine US 22 by Garden Culture Magazine

THE ART OF URBAN GARDENING AND INDOOR GROWING

U S A - C A N A DA E D I T I O N

I S SU E 22 Â· 2018

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CONTENTS

THE WATER PIONEERS

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS

Grow Room Hygiene

WHO’S GROWING WHAT WHERE

70 I N THIS ISSU E OF GA R D EN CU LTU RE : 9 Foreword 10 Product Spotlights 15 Nafta and the Destruction of Mexico 16 Found in Nature 22 The Water Pioneers 28 Harvesting Rainwater 31 Secrets of the Soil - Book Review 32 5 Cool Finds 36 How to Make Water Work 40 Interview with the Humboldt Seed Organization 49 Who’s Growing What Where 52 America’s Green Rush Turns Red 58 Silicic Acid

HOW MICROBES WORK IN HYDROPONICS

98 62 Grow Your Own Protein 66 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Water 70 Dirty, Dirty,Very Dirty 76 Lufa Farms 82 Get Your Lab On 86 KNF Fundamentalists 89 How Farming Under the Sea is Changing the World 92 Unlocking the Secrets to DWC 98 How Microbes Work in Hydroponics 102 Sound Advice 104 Shorties 106 The Art of Gardening 7

FOREWORD & CREDITS

FOREWORD

n this issue, we take a closer look at the relationship between water and your plants. Known as the universal solvent, water can dissolve more elements than any other

liquid. Unfor tunately, water does not discriminate, carrying

INE.COM

comes to growing and water quality. What you don’t know

A Nightm are

ULTUREMAGAZ

Team Meet our Dream

WWW.GARDENC

ED I TO R Catherine Sherriffs cat@gardenculturemagazine.com

ISSUE 22

balanced diet? That is the million dollar question when it

the nutrients that you can never give your plants a properly

DESIGN Job Hugenholtz job@gardenculturemagazine.com

Water is a complex subject that we will humbly try to cover. If you are looking for practical advice, Stoney Tark’s 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Water is a good star t. Evan Folds delves into the mysteries of H 20 in How To Make Water Work and Water Pioneers. You may never see water the same way again.

D I G I TA L & SO CI A L M A R K E T I N G CO O R D I N ATO R Serena Sayers serena@gardenculturemagazine.com +1-514-754-0062

We are proud to have microbe specialists Colin Bell PhD and Peter Baas PhD from Mammoth P writing their first ar ticle for GC. If you haven’t already, they will make you want to run microbes in your hydro system. Nico Hill pays homage to the people behind the movement in KNF Fundamentalists. Also in this edition, stepby-step instructions on how to make your own LAB.

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Eric 3

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for Pests...

may be hur ting your plants.

Happy growing,

2018 I S SU E 22 ·

EDITION

on the source. What if the water is so poor before adding

E XCU T I V E ED I TO R Celia Sayers celia@gardenculturemagazine.com +1-514-754-1539

DA E D I T I O N

GROWIN G AND INDOOR

ADA USA - CAN

medium and throw the plant out of balance. It also depends

USA-CANA

ING URBAN GARDEN THE ART OF

OWING T OF GR THE AR

these excess dissolved elements can build up in the grow

PRESIDENT Eric Coulombe eric@gardenculturemagazine.com +1-514-233-1539

CULTURE

par ticles small enough to hang around. If you are not careful,

Special thanks to: Albert Mondor, Andrew Abramson, Catherine Sherriffs, Chris Matich, Colin Bell PhD and Peter Baas PhD, Cosmic Knot, Dr Callie Seaman, Evan Folds, Nico Hill, Stoney Tark, and Tom Forrest. N G A R D E

with it anything that dissolves, as well as many suspended

CREDITS

PUBLISHER 325 Media 44 Hyde Rd., Milles Isles Québec, Canada t. +1 (844) GC GROWS info@gardenculturemagazine.com GardenCultureMagazine.com t. 1-514-233-1539

@GardenCulture

@GardenCultureMagazine

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D I ST R I B U T I O N PA R T N ER S • Rambridge • Sunlight Supply • Biofloral • Hydrofarm © 325 Media INC

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission in writing from 325 Media Inc.

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Grotek™ was the first to bring engineered charcoal to our industry in 2009 as a means to improve soil quality, plant growth, and to stimulate soil biology. Black Pearl™ is more than just high-quality charcoal. It is super mineralized with plant and mineral derived inputs like volcanic and sedimentary rock dust, natural chelates, and kelp extract. The harmony between ingredients provides a dramatic boost to crops when added to any nutrient program. Remember that not all charcoal is the same. Grotek uses virgin wood fiber from sustainably managed forests, charred in an engineered pyrolysis process. It is considered a Class 1 product by the IBI standards with a surface area over 700m2/g.

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Genetic Threads A monthly box club that connects cannabis cultivators with enthusiasts. Each month, Genetic Threads teams up with a cannabis grower, breeder, or producer and collaborate on a custom shirt. Their mission is to share the stories of the people and companies behind this ever-evolving industry. The Box Club automatically delivers a unique shirt directly to your door every month, highlighting the hottest genetics on the market. The first of its kind, the result is a fun and unprecedented collaboration of genetics, culture, and apparel. FREE SHIPPING. NO CONTRACTS. Sign up by visiting GeneticThreads.com and be sure to follow them on Instagram: @geneticthreads

MILA

How I Beca me th e H as h Que en An exciting personal account from one of the cannabis industry’s rare female icons, a life story unlike any other that takes the reader from 1960s Amsterdam to the Himalayas, and to the burgeoning legal weed scene in the U.S. Mila’s autobiography is intriguing and inspiring on many levels. As a mother, inventor, traveler, lover, and spiritual practitioner, she has taken incredible risks and embarked on unimaginable adventures. Reinventing herself and creating businesses over and over, Mila supported her children and was a rebel at the same time. Her story is, by turns, a riveting travel-log of trekking through uncharted passes and to secret monasteries, and an ultra-personal account of love stories and heartbreaks.

Mila, also known as “The Hash Queen,” was recently named one of the 100 most influential people in the world of cannabis— and her fame continues to expand.

Mila takes us with her to the first parties on the beach in Goa, India, and into the heart of the sixties revolution in fashion and music in Amsterdam. Through it all, she faces the challenge of being a single mother, even as she becomes a pioneer in a traditionally male industry with her inventions, which have shaped the future of hash-making.This book offers an inside view into a wide variety of alternative worlds and experiences, in the company of a fascinating woman. To read all 584 PAGES, and peruse the 162 PHOTOS, order your copy now from Amazon: a.co/cHTV76b 13

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NAFTA BY CATHERINE SHERRIFFS

And The Destruction Of Mexico

any Nor th Americans love Mexican food; from tacos and burritos to fajitas and other traditional favorites, it’s actually become the second-most common menu item in the US. Hard to believe that while Americans enjoy the flavor of Mexican dishes, Mexicans themselves

can no longer afford the food from their own country. It’s an issue brought to light in a compelling new book called EATING NAFTA: Trade and Food Policies and the Destruction of Mexico. In it, professor Alyshia Galvez explains how the Mexican agricultural economy collapsed after the signing of NAFTA 25 years ago. Small-scale, local farmers who grew foods for themselves, friends and family were forced to shut down, replaced by major corporations growing crops such as avocados, peppers, and tomatoes for US consumers. It’s a chain reaction; wholesome and local staples have become too expensive for many Mexicans, and have, therefore, been replaced with sugary drinks and processed foods. Mexico is currently the world’s #1 consumer of instant noodles, and empty-calorie snacks are becoming

It’s a chain reaction; wholesome and local staples have become too expensive for many Mexicans, and have, therefore, been replaced with sugar y drinks and processed foods. increasingly popular at stores throughout the country. As a result, the health of Mexicans is suffering. There has been a recent spike in obesity, diabetes and other dietary related illness. The average lifespan has even decreased. Galvez describes what is happening in Mexico as a public health emergency. Her book gives an in-depth look at these issues and more, examining how NAFTA has forever changed the relationship between the Mexican government and its citizens. 3

Sources: • •

EATING NAFTA: Trade and Food Policies and the Destruction of Mexico chd-expert.com/blog/press_release/chd-expert-evaluates-mexican-restaurant-industry-second-popular-menu-type-usa/

BY CHRIS MATICH

Found In Nature

The Terpenes Behind the Medical benefits of Cannabis

Most of the alternative health world commonly associates terpenes with essential oils found in medicinal remedies

T 16

erpenes exist in many forms all around us. When pine needles fall from your Christmas tree or you peel an orange, plant terpenes rush your nostrils and fill them with familiar scents. Terpenes make up organic plant material, like rose petals, dandelions, and even cannabis buds.

TERPENES

Terpenes help provide all of the effects of cannabis, including its euphoric high because if it weren’t for terpenes, CBD and THC wouldn’t exist

Largely understudied until recent years, terpenes represent the largest class of natural products in the world.

Terpenes in cannabis work to provide its medical benefits

In a 2007 article published by the Nature Chemical Biology journal, Gershenzon and Dudareva describe that while terpenes possess a “variety of roles” which mediate positive and negative interactions among organisms “new natural roles undoubtedly remain to be discovered for this large class of compounds, given that such a small percentage of terpenes has been investigated so far.” applications to scent-based solutions, like aromatherapy, rub on Terpenes are the primary material found in plant resin. As I oils, and some perfumes and body washes. mentioned before, these compounds more than likely evolved as a preservative adaptation. In their 2011 Cannabis, however, offers a distinct review of plant-based insect repellents, solution. Maia & Moore described terpenes This interaction as one of the natural “compounds Mature cannabis flowers contain vast that [plants] use in preventing attack,” between your amounts of terpenes with varying especially from hungry bugs. ECS system medical and therapeutic benefits. In a 2017 POS online Journal piece, Booth, Terpenes also act as important and terpenes is Page, & Bohlmann identified cannabis biosynthetic building blocks in most considered an terpenes in the crystal-like, trichome living beings. For example, the terpene structures that resemble orange hairs squalene is one of the most ancient entourage ef fect on the cannabis flower. plant chemicals. According to Bloch (2008), this terpene is the precursor of These trichomes contain “bouquets the steroid family. Steroids help form of different monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes,” which, “define your body’s cell membranes and play an important role in cell some of the unique organoleptic (scent) properties [in cannabis].” signaling. They concluded that cannabis terpenes may mediate and influence the actual medicinal qualities of varying strains and forms. Today, most of the alternative health world commonly associates terpenes with essential oils found in medicinal remedies, as well as perfumes, aromatherapies, and other natural treatments. In a 2014 patent review, Guimarães, Serafini, & Quintans-Júnior summarized therapeutic terpene applications with regard to pain management properties. They also reviewed studies of the efficacy of terpenes to act as anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic agents. They found large tracts of academic and industrial study into the analgesic benefits of terpenes, and “the development of a successful product that has been well-accepted clinically.” We’ve known about the medical efficacy of terpenes for quite some time, but nothing gives terpenes a better vehicle for providing possible relief than the cannabis sativa plant. Route of administration poses the biggest challenge to the medicinal power of plant-based terpenes. This confines these

Terpenes play a role in the formation of important cannabinoids in trichomes By providing a route of administration through cannabis, we can take advantage of the many medicinal properties provided by terpenes. Evidence shows terpenes help provide all of the effects of cannabis, including its euphoric high because if it weren’t for terpenes, CBD and THC wouldn’t exist. 17

TERPENES

Cannabis contains terpenes found in abundance in nature, like those from citrus fruits, lavender, and other common resins

After ingesting cannabis, terpenes potentiate or interact with your When trichomes form, they rely on cannabis molecules, including ECS system by the time the cannabinoids reach your cannabinoid terpenes, to push the trichomes up to the surface of the buds. receptors. In Ethan Russo’s 2011 review of terpene entourage In a 2016 plant growing study by Olaizola et al., cannabis plants effects, Taming THC, he maintains that terpenes “display unique with less terpene content “needed more time to reach peak therapeutic effects that may contribute meaningfully to the production of THCA, CBDA.” Without this terpenergic push, entourage effects of cannabis-based medicinal extracts.” cannabis trichomes would not form THC, CBD, or the 100 other identified cannabinoids present These interactions, Russo claimed, in cannabis which work to produce its As cannabis should be studied with regard to known effects. their potential as a treatment for pain, cultivators inflammation, depression, anxiety, Cannabis contains terpenes found become more addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal in abundance in nature, like those and bacterial infections. Terpenes from citrus fruits, lavender, and other skilled in isolating actually bind to and block certain common resins. These terpenes possess specific terpenes, ECS receptors, and these multiple therapeutic benefits that cannabis combinations map out cannabis’ unlocks. This synergy between terpenes limonene should psychoactive effects. and cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, is be on the top of accomplished via the entourage effect This interaction between your ECS and the endocannabinoid system. their list. system and terpenes is considered an entourage effect. Terpenes have While route of administration was a been lauded as “balancers and challenge for many natural terpene communicators.” They’re known to amplify and moderate therapeutic solutions, medical cannabis bypasses this problem by cannabinoid effects, shaping how we experience THC and CBD. utilizing your brain’s endocannabinoid system, or ECS. Your ECS regulates many bodily processes. In a 2016 review of the endocannabinoid system, Olaizola et al. described that the ECS regulates mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory, among others. The ECS has receptors that cannabinoids bind to, including THC and CBD. Once bound, these produce effects associated with cannabis, such as euphoria and pain relief. Sativa strains tend to be high in limonene, a terpene found in citrus that has strong anti-cancer properties As cannabis cultivators become more skilled in isolating specific terpenes, limonene should be on the top of their list. This pungent, citrus-smelling terpene can be found naturally in oranges, lemons, limes, tangerines, and grapefruits. Sativa dominant cannabis strains contain higher amounts of limonene and create an uplifting effect known to help elevate moods. In terms of therapeutic properties, however, limonene should be isolated because of its effects with regard to cancer. When you use cannabis, molecules like THC and CBD attach to receptors in your endocannabinoid systems. These attachments are mediated through cannabis terpenes via an entourage effect

Limonene’s anti-cancer properties were known for quite some time. In a 1994 rat study, Gould et al. found that monoterpenes, which include limonene, inhibited protein isoprenylation (production) of certain small G proteins, specifically the p21 ras 19

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TERPENES

Isolating the terpene myrcene may lead to a new cannabis strain that provides pain relief

Pinene, found in nature in pine needles, is a bronchodilator and can help those who suffer from asthma as well as bronchitis gene. When mutated, the p21 ras gene production has been found in a variety of cancerous tumors, according to Bos’ 1989 review in the journal Cancer Research. Isolating this terpene in cannabis could provide anti-cancer properties. Alpha-pinene gives off the scent of the resin from pine and fir tree needles and is often associated with skunky, smokey, cannabis strains. According to Russo’s Taming THC, alpha-pinene can work as a bronchodilator in humans. Because of this, pineneheavy strains may induce more coughing because the smoke causes your airways to open, exposing you to more of it. The bronchodilator property means strains with high levels of pinene can open airways for people with COPD, asthma, and even bronchitis. Isolating this terpene in medical cannabis could be a boon for those seeking relief.

Isolating this terpene in cannabis could provide anti-cancer proper ties Myrcene has a very hoppy, musky aroma and taste. Commonly associated with indica cannabis strains, myrcene offers strong bodily effects like anti-inflammatory properties, pain management, and sleep aid. In particular, its pain management properties have been studied with the hope of crafting new pain solutions. For example, Lorenzetti et al. (1991) describe that myrcene mimics peripheral analgesic action, and may “constitute a lead for the development of new peripheral analgesics with a profile of action different from that of the aspirin-like drugs.” Isolating the terpene myrcene may lead to a new cannabis strain that provides pain relief. While plenty of evidence exists surrounding medical cannabis terpenes, terpene isolation itself as a science is still experiencing plenty of trial and error. In fact, even the most stringent medical cannabis programs may not have completely accurate terpene breakdowns for their strains. Cultivators, growers, cannabis scientists, and patients alike will benefit from terpene isolation. 3

Myrcene, the most abundant terpene found in cannabis, has potential as a new analgesic, pain relief solution

Sources: • • • •

pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00949 chewsomegood.com/hack-ecs-better-mood/ ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/ www.leafscience.com/2017/12/08/marijuana-entourage-effect/

Bio

Chris Matich is a professional writer, journalist, and editor living in Pittsburgh, PA. Chris blogs for Schenley.net. His writing interests include LGBT+ people/issues, sports writing, and blogging. Chris currently writes about web optimization, blogging practices, medical cannabis, and cannabis lifestyle. He writes fiction and creative nonfiction in his spare time.

BY EVAN FOLDS

The Water Pioneers

Life does not live without water. Goethe said, “Water sustains all.”

THE WATER PIONEERS

Dr Pollack ’s discoveries begin to describe the benefits of juicing, how water operates within cells and the mystery of why clouds stay stuck together

s important as water is you would think that there are numerous institutes dedicated to studying it, but there are few. The work of uncovering the secrets of water has been left to innovators whose dedication to this seminal substance goes beyond plaudits and public recognition.

Water research is generally stunted due to water being the “universal solvent,” meaning that it will dissolve almost anything it comes into contact with. When performing modern popular science with its requirement of purity and replicability, any research that is not conducted with pure H 2O is deemed “contaminated” and cannot be published. Of course, this cannot be accomplished even in laboratory settings, as water exists as H 2O only in a vacuum or a textbook. This leaves us mostly to our imaginations when it comes to water, but there are some looking to bridge the gap. The preeminent pioneer of water is Viktor Schauberger (1885-1958), known during his time as the “Water Wizard.” In his youth, Schauberger was a forester in Austria where he spent months at a time alone in the woods Viktor Schauberger developing an intuitive and intimate relationship with water. He witnessed fish sitting still in flowing streams or climbing raging waterfalls, and rocks floating in moving currents. He proceeded to turn these observations into technologies geared towards bettering the human experience. Schauberger’s work can be encompassed in his maxim, “Comprehend and Copy Nature.” His basic thesis contains a universal twofold movement principle that views life sustaining itself through the balance of implosive and explosive movements. With implosive movement, there is coolness, suction, growth, and health. Explosive movements generate heat, pressure, pollution, fragmentation, illness, and death. It is impor tant to note that man has succeeded mostly in mastering the explosive movement in order to release energy. Schauberger was issued many patents and performed numerous projects proving the merits of his work, most that were sequestered by the US government after his

death. What is left for public consumption can be found in Callum Coats incredible book Living Energies. Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) was a German physician who developed a system of medicine called homeopathy that utilizes the ability of water to retain or remember subtle energies. Through serial dilution and potentization, called succession, the vibrational imprint of the substance being diluted is transferred into the water for delivery as a medicine. Because typical homeopathic solutions have diluted Samuel Hahnemann the substrate beyond Avogadro’s number, there is no longer even a molecule of the original substance left in the solution, yet the solution still carries out the medicinal effect. Homeopathy receives much ridicule but has proven remarkably durable over time. It is utilized in agriculture in every country on Ear th through the biodynamic methods of spraying BD500 and BD501 as “field sprays.” Worldwide, over 200 million people use homeopathy medicinally on a regular basis, and it is included in the national health systems of a number of countries including Brazil, Chile, India, Mexico, Pakistan, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Another water pioneer who worked in the field of “water memory” was Marcel Vogel (1917-1991), who is best known for his work with crystals. He recognized that the molecular structure of water as ice or its liquid crystalline form is fundamentally the same as quar tz crystal, and through

Marcel Vogel

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THE WATER PIONEERS

Water research is generally stunted due to water being the “universal solvent”, meaning that it will dissolve almost anything it comes into contact with

his work demonstrated that the vibrational information impressed into quar tz crystals could be transferred and imprinted into water.

But the star of contemporary water research is Dr Gerald Pollack of the University of Washington

Vogel called the process “charging water,” and through experimentation showed that there is a measurable change in the hydrogen bonding as observed by infrared and ultraviolet spectrophotometry, as well as a change in the electrical conductivity of the water, the surface tension, pH, and freezing point. Dr Masaru Emoto (19432014) may be the most popular modern figure in the activated water field, having introduced countless people to the potentials of water through his work. Using highspeed photography, he was able to capture how Dr Masaru Emoto our thoughts and different kinds of music affect the structure of water at the moment of freezing. Dr Emoto and others have theorized that water has the ability to receive and transfer what the Japanese call “hado” (vital energy).

Image: Ancestral Health Radio

But the star of contemporary water research is Dr Gerald Pollack of the University of Washington. He made a splash in 2013 with his book The Four th Phase of Water that describes his premise of “exclusion zone” water and how it behaves when exposed to charged surfaces. Dr Pollack’s discoveries begin to describe the benefits of juicing, how water operates within cells and the mystery of why clouds Dr Gerald Pollack stay stuck together. Water is an endlessly fascinating subject, and this brief introduction to the pioneers of water research only scratches the surface of those who have dedicated their lives to dive deeper into the mysteries of this amazing substance. The rest is up to you! 3

Bio

Evan Folds is a regenerative agricultural consultant with a background across every facet of the farming and gardening spectrum. He has founded and operated many businesses over the years - including a retail hydroponics store he operated for over 14 years, a wholesale company that formulated beyond organic products and vortex-style compost tea brewers, an organic lawn care company, and a commercial organic wheatgrass growing operation. He now works as a consultant in his new project Be Agriculture where he helps new and seasoned growers take their agronomy to the next level.What we think, we grow! Contact Evan at www.BeAgriculture.com or on Facebook and Instagram: @beagriculture 25

Biofloral USA tel: 877-735-6725

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BY STONEY TARK

Harvesting Rainwater Rainwater is free, long-lasting, full of beneficial nitrogen, and is how nature intended

ater is an essential element in the home as well as in the garden. As many parts of the world face dry seasons, the long-term sustainability of gardens and farms will heavily depend on the amount of water available. Below are factors to consider before harvesting your own water source.

Rainwater Or Tap Water? Life on earth would not exist if it were not for rainwater. However, since we are blessed with the luxury of turning on a tap to access chlorinated, clean, drinking water, our beloved gardens benefit from both sources. Still, because there are chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride in most tap water, many green-conscious growers shy away from using it in the garden. Rainwater is free, long-lasting, full of beneficial nitrogen, and is how nature intended. Some variables should be considered, such as the level of pollution (e.g. high sulfur levels) in the surrounding

area. Acid rain is a result of water molecules combining with the exposed gases and heavy metals in the atmosphere. This can have adverse effects on farmlands adjusting the pH, which causes an imbalance in soil microbiology.

Inexpensive Methods Of Harvesting Store-bought water harvesting systems are usually very expensive and may require home installation. Having said that, these systems are incredible, and through gravity, pressure, and a filtering system, clean drinking water appears in a tank.

HARVESTING RAINWATER

Through gravity, pressure, and a filtering system, clean drinking water appears in a tank

Mosquitoes also often arise around an open water source. These annoying pests will lay eggs and produce water-borne larvae. An experienced gardener understands the threat these larvae pose in the prime breeding season. Using chemicals to kill the mosquito larvae is a bad idea; there are organic alternatives, which consist of bacterial compounds.

Creating your own system can be as basic as using a large container, barrel, waste bin, an old bath, or by digging out a pond. Depending on the scale of the garden and whether the water is to be used for drinking or just the plants, you can better determine what size will suit your needs. For those who have drain pipes, collecting the water directly into a barrel or drum is the easiest way, however, it is important that the previous contents of the barrels or drum were non-toxic. Directing water from a sloping roof into a single point is also a simple method, but if you will be using the water for drinking, be sure there is no algae growing on any area the water comes into contact with. A corrugated, sloping roof can be made from metal or plastic and will do an excellent job of isolating the rainfall.

If you are harvesting water for use inside the home, then incorporating a good filtering system is key. Mosquitoes can breed viruses, so be sure they do not enter the water source by adding a broad net over the containers. If you have a lid over your container, then make sure that immediately after watering the garden you cover the top, as mosquitoes only need the slightest opportunity to lay their eggs.

Cleanliness and Quality The most critical part of sourcing your water is having a clean, safe, chemical-free supply that can be stored away for long periods of time.

Algae and Mosquitoes One of the most significant problems with water is algae, and if left to grow, the water source becomes dirty and is no longer ideal for a filtering system. One way to effectively combat the formation of algae within a water source is to prevent sunlight from penetrating the barrel, tub or whatever you may be using. If using a white, plastic tub and you notice a green formation on the inside, then paint the tub black, or cover the outside of the container with a material that will prevent the sunlight from coming through. Darkness is required because without sunlight, photosynthesis cannot occur, meaning the algae cannot survive in darkness. If you have a large pond, then algae building up on the sides will be consumed by fish, tadpoles, newts, and frogs. If you are choosing to drink the harvested rainwater, then ensure that all dirt is carefully removed with a filtering system. Bacteria can range in the size of 0.2 - 2 microns, which is incredibly tiny, so if you are making a homemade version and want a filter, then a 1-micron screen is what you need. Check the pH and electric conductivity of your water; considering the water is distilled, the natural state should be at a pH level of 7.0. 3

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BOOK REVIEW

BY EVAN FOLDS

Book Review:

Secrets of the Soil by Peter Tompkins & Christopher Bird

ou may have heard of the book called The Secret Life of Plants. Stevie Wonder did the soundtrack for the documentary movie in 1979 based on a fascinating exploration of the physical, emotional, and spiritual relations between plants and humans.

The authors, Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird, have written an even more incredible follow-up book called Secrets of the Soil. It did not receive the same critical acclaim as their previous work, primarily because the authors took an even riskier dive into the spiritual and esoteric concepts of soil and agriculture. Rather than take the perspective of the plant, Secrets of the Soil tells the story of the soil by way of innovative farmers, scientists, and mystics who utilize novel techniques such as Rudolf Steiner’s biodynamic methods, Dan Carlson’s Sonic Bloom sound frequency work, and many other incredible technologies that have the capacity to help us heal and regenerate agriculture in powerful ways. There are chapters on rock dust, the soil food web, the legendary health and longevity of the Hunza people from the Himalayas, and a chapter called “Weeds: Guardians of the Soil” that discusses complete system farming and describes how weeds do so much more to protect the soil than to harm it. There is even an entire chapter on the efficacy of the vor tex in water described through the work of Patrick Flanagan and the great Viktor Schauberger.

Secrets of the Soil is a clarion call for changing agriculture for the better

Secrets of the Soil is a clarion call for changing agriculture for the better. Written in a non-technical voice, it is revolutionary in its scope and is required reading for anyone interested in the secrets of the natural world. It goes beyond agriculture to probe the primal mysteries of the soil and presents a compelling picture for the regeneration of our planet. Conventional agriculture is failing us. Secrets of the Soil not only provides potential answers to the questions many are not even asking yet, but it does so in a way that is entertaining and approachable. If you are serious about agriculture and human health, you will be moved by the message. 3

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BY EVAN FOLDS

How To Make

Water Work

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Water, thou hast no taste, no colour, no odour; canst not be defined, art relished while ever mysterious. Not necessary to life, but rather life itself, thou fillest us with a gratification that exceeds the delight of the senses.â&#x20AC;? Antoine de Saint-Exupery Wind, Sand, and Stars 1939 36

HOW TO MAKE WATER WORK

Water expresses over 70 anomalies that baffle the mighty scientific method

ater is unassuming but alive with energy; it is seemingly iner t but is the personification of vitality. Water is a riddle of life and, on balance, there may be no more miraculous and, at the same time, disrespected substance on Ear th.

For most of human history, water has been revered, having been recognized as one of the four classical elements, along with air, earth, and fire. It was not until the 18th century that chemist Antoine Lavoisier ran an electrical current through water and realized that it gives off two gases we call hydrogen and oxygen. Since this time water has worked to confound even the most brilliant scientists; the true nature of water escapes deductive scientific explanation. Water can be described as being beyond science, such are the words of the French biologist Fred Vles, “Biology is, for the most part, the science of water.”

In greenhouse applications, water that has been activated using implosion technology and beneficial frequencies has resulted in up to a 40% reduction in water use

Water expresses over 70 anomalies that baffle the mighty scientific method, which demands strict objective replication that belies the true nature of this seminal substance. Water scoffs at such rigidity, and never repeats itself. In the words of Heraclitus, one of the original Greek philosophers, “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.” Most everyone is familiar with the classic textbook H2O chemical structure from grade school, but you may be surprised to discover that modern popular science with all of its authority, expertise, and experience has never actually seen a water molecule. They are, after all, incredibly small. For reference, the average snow crystal contains about 10 quintillion (10 followed by 18 zeros) water molecules. Water is involved in literally everything. To create 1 tonne of steel, it takes 300 tonnes of water. A nuclear power plant requires 30 million gallons of water to cool its reactors…every hour. It takes an average of 460 gallons of water to make a quarter-pound of hamburger. California’s drought-stricken Central Valley churns out 80% of the globe’s almonds, and since each nut takes a gallon of water to produce, this accounts for close to 10% of the state’s annual agricultural water use—or more than what the entire population of Los Angeles and San Francisco use combined. For the details, watch the Netflix documentary Water & Power: A California Heist

or read the article titled A Kingdom From Dust, documenting the shady business practice of Stewart Resnick, the biggest farmer in the United States. Water is special because it is a polar molecule. This means that it expresses a positive charge and negative charge in its stable molecular form, which is very rare in Nature. This polarity allows water to take the role of the universal solvent. Water picks things up and carries it around on an ionic level, and true to form in our materialistic age, we tend to consider this only in a physical sense; but water is also capable of carrying around and facilitating subtle energies. This is the basis of homeopathy or biodynamic agriculture.

Because water is a polar molecule and opposite charges attract, water hugs itself through a process called hydrogen bonding. One consequence of hydrogen bonding is capillary action, which was actually the subject of Albert Einstein’s first scientific paper. With capillary action, water molecules attract one another so strongly that they defy the force of gravity, such as in chromatography experiments where water pulls colours apart as it travels up a paper towel, or in a hydroponic system where the wicking action of capillary mats delivers water to plants without pumps. For all we owe water, we treat it with unfortunate disrespect, even scorn. To highlight the extreme resistance of popular science towards water, in 1988 John Maddox (1925-2009), the editor of the famous scientific journal Nature, issued a response to the research submitted by the renowned scientist Jacques Benveniste (1935-2004) proving the merits of homeopathy, first developed by Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). The results generated by Benveniste showing efficacy for homeopathy were in complete contradiction with generally accepted scientific views, and through a long, dramatic process were rejected by the journal. Maddox is quoted as saying, “Our mind is not as so much closed as not ready to change the idea of how modern science is constructed.” Whoa. 37

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HOW TO MAKE WATER WORK

Water’s ability to transport physical and energetic substance includes delivering oxygen and nutrition inside of living cells, as well as carrying away the toxins. Dr Peter Agre was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2003 for the discovery of the mechanism by which cells “drink” water. He called them “aquaporins,” spiral protein channels that exist in microbes, plants, and people that regulate the cellular water cycle. In the human body alone, at least 11 different variants of aquaporin have been found.

When was the last time you asked water what it wants? This may feel like a silly question, but considering the potential for results, what have we got to lose?

It turns out that the molecular structure of water determines a cell’s ability to access an adequate supply. Basically, aquaporins drink water one molecule at a time, meaning, in simple terms, if the structure and surface tension of water is too strong, it creates clustering that will not allow water to penetrate or be infused into cells. The same hydration principle applies in agriculture with plant cells. It is this sort of consideration towards water that can result in enormous benefits for farmers. In other words, it is not just the purity of the water that should be in question for farmers and gardeners, but also the molecular structure. In greenhouse applications, water that has been activated using implosion technology and beneficial frequencies has resulted in up to a 40% reduction in water use. This has tremendous implications for farm profitability, as with many farms water is the most expensive line item. Water is far more than a substance to dissolve fertilizer into; it is a primary nutrient itself. In fact, with a simple experiment of creating what I call “activated water,” you can witness the growth benefit that water can bring on its own with some intention. Root several cuttings of a basil or tomato plant and pot them in identical soil for comparison. From the same water source, separate two samples using one as the control. With the other sample, stir the water to organization in one direction and then reverse the flow over and over again for at least 20 minutes. Perform this exercise for each watering and watch for yourself how beneficial plain water can be in the garden. So why does this stirring exercise work? The simple answer is that water thrives on energy and movement, specifically that of implosive movement; and when treated with this intention can perform on a higher level. There is a reason that a river meanders or a wave curls. The way water moves allows its ability to perform to its potential. This phenomenon is brought to life through the use of flow forms, water features designed to mimic mountain streams and leverage the powerfully revitalizing properties of naturally energized water. Developed by John Wilkes in the 1970’s, his work was inspired by the vortex principle introduced by Rudolf Steiner in biodynamic agriculture, and they have since been

implemented into countless homesteads and public gardens the world over. For more, read the book Flowforms: The Rhythmic Power of Water. Think of it this way: when water flows down a drain we do not have to engineer the vortex that forms; water moves in this spiral form by default. Now, make the connection that our conventional means of irrigation involve straight pipes and right angles. In other words, we are not respecting what water wants, only what we want to get from it. When was the last time being selfish worked for you? When was the last time you asked water what it wants? This may feel like a silly question, but considering the potential for results, what have we got to lose? This activation of water can also be accomplished using energy directly from magnets, crystals, or frequency. Both form and frequency are major influences on the ability of water to perform its work. So, armed with the knowledge that water is far more than just wet, how do we get water to do more work for us in our agriculture? Beyond the examples already given, the most powerful tool that you have is an open mind; our perspective drives our actions, and an open mind drives experimentation. Keep records of the results you are generating; trust, but verify. Don’t take my word for it, prove it to yourself. While many have trouble accepting the idea that energy is a relevant topic in agriculture, one could at the same time argue it is the most important. In fact, life is energy, energy is life. Surely, we can all agree that there is more to life than what is physically here and that we are more than the sum of our parts. Just consider for a moment why a plant grows up against gravity, or why they are influenced by the moon and other celestial cycles. Every living organism expresses this life force and the subtle energies that communicate the energetic organization that allows life to build itself move through water. While the concept of activated water may be outside of the conventional box, I can assure you from many years of experience that if you can jump out of it with two feet and an open mind, your growing will be all the better for it. 3 39

BY STONEY TARK ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF @THISCANNABIS

LARGE SCALE ORGANIC FARMING

INTERVIEW WITH

THE HUMBOLDT SEED ORGANIZATION

rowing organically is not just a mindset, it’s a lifestyle. Garden Culture Magazine caught up with the head breeder at the Humboldt Seed Organization, Diggs_Terra, to discuss the impact of organic farming and sustainability in California.

How important is growing with organic methods in Humboldt, California?

How large is the farm that you use for your research and development purposes?

Growing organically in Humboldt county has really been more of a way of life for the last 40 to 50 years. [...Today,] we see smallscale agricultural farms in Humboldt, which are all organic, and the overall lifestyle reiterated by the culture at large amplifies this by the food we eat and the quality of life that we prefer to live.

Our licensed farm in Humboldt County is 14,000 ft.². This is the original mothership, if you will, as the organization has many locations across multiple states that are involved in the creation of many varieties, as well as testing research and development. This is part of the reason why we call our group the Humboldt Seed Organization because it takes many hands to accomplish one creation.

This can easily be translated into our cannabis cultivation. Many cultivators in Humboldt County have been consumers and connoisseurs themselves for many years, sometimes, multiple generations of families. This long-standing knowledge and collective cultural effort in this small region in Northern California has rooted itself in natural forms of growing in cultivating on behalf of the land, as well as the quality of life so many of us in the region desire.

In reality, we are probably covering a few hundred thousand square feet of canopy indoors and outdoors to achieve our goal. I haven’t evaluated down to the square foot, but I know at this stage it’s huge.

“THERE IS A CONSCIOUS REVOLUTION HAPPENING AND INTERESTING ENOUGH, IT’S STARTING IN THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY” 41

THE HUMBOLDT SEED ORGANIZATION

PRE-AMENDING SOIL OR STIMULATING SOIL THROUGH COVER CROPS AND COMPANION PLANTING IN THE OFF-SEASON PLAYS A MAJOR ROLE IN THE HEALTH AND VITALIT Y OF THE SOIL DURING THE ACTUAL GROWING CYCLE

Humboldt coastline

What is the daily procedure to organically feed such a large crop?

What does the Humboldt Seed Organization do to prevent the use of chemical pesticides?

Pre-amending soil or stimulating soil through cover crops and companion planting in the off-season plays a major role in the health and vitality of the soil during the actual growing cycle.

Collectively, we explore the realms of preventative organic essential oil-based sprays; also, fine-tuning nutrition regiments is essential for providing plant health. Soil rich in silica, as well as a compilation of microbial life and micronutrition, will provide the majority of what the plant needs with very little of our input. We prefer using a spray in a preventative fashion, especially with strains that we know that may come in contact with things such as mold and mildew.

This allows us to have very little input into the grows, [minimizing] our impact and our workload through the more strenuous parts of the summer. Most amendment that is used in the process is added into the soil and given time to heat up and break down to the assistance of microbiology, making it available once planting begins. We have found throughout the years input into our soil has become less and less due to our ability to sustain a healthy microbial food web through the distribution of carbon-rich material. This is replenished in the form of cover crops as well as mulching and straw, which act as insulation barriers during the growing cycle. In the off-season, this material breaks down and becomes a carbon-abundant food source for microbial life inside the soil food web.

There are a lot of different combinations out there, and a lot of them are very useful when you find the right formulator. We’ve had great success at maintaining bug, mold and mildew problems using these type of oils and sprays.

How widespread are performance growth regulators (PGRs) in agricultural farming in America? PGR’s aren’t very commonly used here in the States. I think there have been [many] products on the market that were used to increase production and performance at the expense of the end-user and in the name of profit, but those days are coming to a close. People will continue to profit, but [the] health and well-being [of others] will be taken into consideration on a much deeper level to maintain a high level of integrity for this medicinal plant. [...] When we want to inject hormones, steroids or other forms of performance-enhancing nutrition, this intervenes with the complex phytochemical composition and make up for which the plant was designed to give.

Organic farming 43

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THE HUMBOLDT SEED ORGANIZATION

THE GREAT THING ABOUT COMPOST TEAS IS YOU DON’T NEED TO DO THEM VERY OF TEN, AND THEY GO A LONG WAY

Is soil microbiology something Humboldt farmers really focus on?

What is your experience with heat stress, and how do you cope on such a large scale?

Over the last five or six years, soil microbiology has become a hot topic in Humboldt County and beyond. Compost tea, healthy soil practices, and land stewardship have become a major role in how we run our farms and manage our budgets. We are fortunate enough to understand now that most cultivation can be run on a shoestring budget. Healthy plants come from balanced soil, and balanced soil is cultivated from diversity, which is created by having an abundance of carbon, material for microbes to feed on.

In Humboldt County, we are fortunate enough to have modest temperatures, but some of our cultivations [in different locations] require shade cloth. This protects the plant against extreme summer days. We also use a lot of silica, as silica plays a major role in environmental stress.

Do you use a ‘no-till’ growing method?

[...] We also focus on keeping the ground temperature cool by using either straw or cover crops. There are easy ways to measure the ground temperature, which plays a prominent role in plant stress.

We do organic growing, but not a ‘no-till’ method. Instead, we have an organic amending approach which we do one cycle per season, allowing for the soil to replenish and rebuild during the off-season. ‘No-till’ is becoming a widelyused practice, and we have been implementing a lot of techniques drawn from the concept, such as implementing more diversity in our gardens with the cannabis plants such as Crimson Clover.

How do you sustain water use over long periods of time?

Are organic compost teas still popular amongst the modern day growers in California?

Mulch also works as an insulated barrier; mulch, when aged, will also act as a carbon source over time, helping to harbor fungal activity and assisting in supporting carbon-rich food for other microbial life. [...] Introducing other forms of compost will play a vital role in maintaining high moisture sustainability, as well as water retention.

Compost teas are more popular than ever. This allows most farmers to deliver bioavailable nutrition, as well as the additional microbial life that supports our species of plant health and soil health. Most of us use teas, especially during veg stage [to stimulate] fungal activity, and change our recipes to bacterial-rich during the flowering period. The great thing about compost teas is you don’t need to do them very often, and they go a long way.

We have found the best way to sustain water is to insulate the top layers of your soil. You have a few different options here such as straw (not hay). Hay molds and straw doesn’t; this is an important factor to know. Straw is an excellent insulated barrier to protect against unnecessary evaporation and heat stress.

Views from the farm 45

THE HUMBOLDT SEED ORGANIZATION FOODSCAPING

WE FOUND THIS TO BE THE BEST WAY TO SUSTAIN AGAINST ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS, WATER RETENTION AND IRRIGATION AS WELL.

What effect does the water drought in California have on farmers and crops, and how do the farmers there adapt? The drought in California has played a significant impact on a lot of lives in and out of the farming community. This is a collective issue, though we must acknowledge that 80% of the water consumed goes to large-scale agricultural practices. This is unfortunately rooted in old, lousy policy which prevents many farmers from using water in a responsible and conservative fashion.

What size pots are you using to grow large-sized plants and what are they made from? Dependant upon the location, we range anywhere from 100-gallon to 500-gallon cloth pots, with the majority of our plants in the ground. We found this to be the best way to sustain against environmental stress, water retention, and irrigation as well. It’s a much easier form of cultivating when things are in the ground.

Is bat guano something that is used as a nutrient by the growers in Humboldt?

For example, a farmer is allowed a certain amount of water every year. If the farmer uses less water then he is issued, they will lose rights to that water. This causes farmers to waste water on years that they may not necessarily need it. [...] The cannabis industry consumes considerably less water.

Bat guano is something used by growers in Humboldt County, however, it’s expensive and with the change in the market, many growers are finding more practical ways of achieving results. I like using guano, but prefer to use it in compost tea because it’s cheap; it can also go a long way and be just as effective.

Which organic growing mediums are you using for young seedlings or clones?

For a small grower or small cultivator, this is good, but remember these products are finite, meaning this is a limited resource. We should consider how we can obtain the nutrition we desire for our plants without completely [depleting] the sources.

We are using coco blends that are amended with organicbased nutrition, including worm castings, manures, and other natural additives. We keep most mixes pretty light, and we use compost tea to supplement any nutrition that we need through most of the vegetative.

Do you feel that there are more green-conscious farmers and companies in California, or are we going the opposite way?

We prefer to transplant every two weeks, and coco is the primary medium for high-performance, as it’s a renewable resource. The majority of our plants then go into the ground or into beds where the soil has been present for anywhere from 7 to 10 years. This means that it’s very carbon-rich and a lot of things have already been established; therefore, we don’t need a lot of input.

I believe that there is a conscious revolution happening and interesting enough, it’s starting in the cannabis industry. So many of us come from backgrounds of alternative lifestyles, craving a better, healthier and more sustainable way of living. This is very common amongst growers and cannabis consumers alike. We tend to shop at health food stores and many of us support the concept of local businesses and the local economy.

Do you have a preferred mix for flowering plants?

We also have a great love for the environment in California, and we have some of the strictest and [most] stringent laws for air-quality.

When we’re speaking about growing outdoors, I am more amendment-driven. Regarding indoors, I like mixes that are already preemptively made allowing for minimal nutrition; that needs to be added once we begin the cultivation process. So I would say introducing the plant to either a little bit of guano during the beginning of the flowering cycle, as well as kelp and a little alfalfa helps.

This is what it’s all about...

Are there any tips you can give growers who wish to pursue organic methods full time? I encourage all growers to explore the realms of organics, and to raise the level of respect for yourself and the people around you. A hundred years ago it was only called farming, yet now we call it organics. There’s something fundamentally wrong that we’ve lost touch with our ability to achieve [nature] within our souls. Everything has been provided here for us in a natural form for us to thrive. We have stopped decoding the message that was given to us in a state of perfection. 3

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Fresh and Seasonal

Credit: Chicago Botanic

Food, health, and jobs all come together in one location at the Farm on Ogden. It’s all about feeding the community fresh, seasonal vegetables year-round. A 7,300 sq ft greenhouse now stands in what used to be a dead space in the city; the facility also houses a 50,000-gallon aquaponics system that produces 2,500 heads of lettuce every week, and 14,000 pounds of tilapia a year. The farm offers education and training to Chicago public school students, ex-offenders, as well as future urban farmers who want to learn more about food safety, cooking, and nutrition. The Farm on Ogden takes ‘community’ to the next level by also offering vegetable boxes on a prescription-basis to patients with diet-related diseases who also happen to be food insecure. Taking good care of the people in Chicago… Learn more: bit.ly/2lI5mRT

Austin, Texas

When it comes to keeping gardens healthy, nothing beats compost. With both happy plants and the environment in mind, the Compost Pedallers have taken a different approach to curbside pick-up; they cycle around the Austin area collecting residential kitchen scraps as they go. The idea is to reduce waste, strengthen the local food system, and create a stronger connection between people are the nearby farms. Most of the food waste in the US goes directly to landfills where it decomposes and creates harmful methane gas. When CEO Dustin Fedako found out only 3% of the population had access to composting services, he came up with a way to do it without any kind of carbon footprint. No trucks; just bikes. For $16 a month, the organization provides households with a green bin and passes by to collect the organic material every week. The waste is then composted and distributed to over 20 urban farms and gardens. Feeding the soil that feeds the community… Learn more: compostpedallers.com

Credit: Compost Pedallers

Growing Greener Cities

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From cold sores to cancer, the plants growing at the University of Rhode Island’s College of Pharmacy are said to help prevent or cure a broad range of health problems. With more than 200 medicinal plants, 500 ornamental plants, nine birch trees, walkways and benches shaped like birch leaves, the garden is not only a place for research, but also for respite. It is a source of year-round enjoyment; hardier varieties spend the winter outdoors, while less tolerant plants are grown and studied in a nearby greenhouse. The garden also serves as a seed repository for rare medicinal plants, ensuring they never disappear. Focusing on the growing role of nature in healing and wellness, students and the entire community are invited to the garden to learn more about natural medicines and their environment. Nature, science and art, all in one space… Learn more: bit.ly/2KvmS6q

Credit: The University of Rhode Island

Healing Garden

Bushwick, New York

Credit: Oko Farms

Fish Tank It’s New York City’s largest and only outdoor aquaponics farm, and it was built to be accessible to the public. The Moore Street Farm is a 2,500 sq ft aquaponics system housing catfish, tilapia, crawfish, freshwater prawns, koi, and bluegill. In addition to sea creatures, a variety of fruits and vegetables are also grown on site. Wastewater from the fish tank is pumped through plant grow beds to feed nutrient-rich fertilizer to fresh herbs, tomatoes, eggplant, spinach, peppers and so much more. The plants then filter the toxic waste and return clean water to the fish. A number of aquaponic farming methods are used on site, including deep water culture, ebb and flow, and nutrient film technique. Members of the public, and especially students, are invited to attend workshops where they learn about aquaponics, fish care and plant propagation. Sustainable, organic and educational… Learn more: okofarms.com/farm/ 3

BY ANDREW AMBRAMSON

In June, Ok l a hom a bec a me t he 30 t h s tat e t o l ega l ize medic a l m a ri jua n a

CANNABIS

I t wa s a s t unning w in f or t he c a nn a bis indu s t ry in a deep ly red s tat e

merica’s green rush is turning red. Embracing cannabis instead of demonizing would be the smart play for Donald Trump and his fellow conservatives. In June, Oklahoma became the 30th state to legalize medical marijuana. It was a stunning win for the cannabis

industry in a deeply red state. Not only did 57% of Oklahoma voters approve the referendum, they passed one of the most liberal medical marijuana laws in the nation. Doctors in Oklahoma can recommend cannabis for any condition they see fit.

This is a state that Trump won with more than 65% of the vote in the 2016 presidential election. Hillary Clinton couldn’t even muster 29% in Oklahoma. Trump had a larger margin of victory in just two states — West Virginia and Wyoming. Like most of his policies, Trump has given many contradictory statements about cannabis.

The movement to legalize or decriminalize cannabis nationwide has never been stronger, even with Republicans running Washington

During the election, he said marijuana is an issue best left for the states to decide. But after taking office, and appointing Jeff Sessions as attorney general, there was a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the cannabis industry.

Sessions, a character straight out of Reefer Madness propaganda, claims cannabis is a gateway to heroin. There couldn’t be a person less friendly to cannabis running the nation’s justice department. After Sessions was appointed, Trump’s tone also shifted. Through his then-press secretary Sean Spicer, Trump announced that the feds might crack down on recreational marijuana use. Trump, who has few convictions of his own and governs by throwing red meat to his rabid base, threatened to upend America’s growing cannabis industry. But even before the Oklahoma vote, Trump was appearing to soften his tone. Unlike draconian efforts to crack down on illegal immigration or pick battles with American allies, fighting marijuana legalization isn’t likely to score Trump political points. Prior to the G7 summit, Trump told reporters he “probably will end up supporting” a bipartisan bill that leaves cannabis

legalization and enforcement in the hands of individual states and bans the federal government from enforcing marijuana laws in states where its use is legal. That bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Cory Gardner and Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren, is one of several cannabis bills currently being floated in Washington. Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer filed a bill that would remove marijuana from the Controlled Substance Act, where its currently listed alongside heroin and LSD.

Democratic Sen. Cory Booker has his own bill that would reschedule marijuana, remove cannabis crimes from federal records and create funding for communities negatively impacted by the War on Drugs. Trump, not surprisingly, announced support for the Gardner bill after Gardner, a Colorado senator, lifted his blockade of Trump’s Department of Justice nominees. Gardner started his blockade after Sessions rescinded the Cole Memo, an Obama-era policy that directed federal prosecutors not to target marijuana producers in states where cannabis is legal. To sum it up: Sessions took away legal protections for cannabis states. Gardner, who represents the first state to legalize recreational marijuana, retaliated by blocking Trump nominees. And Trump ended the blockade by backing Gardner’s cannabis bill. That’s quintessential D.C. politics. All of these bills were brought forward before Oklahoma’s vote. The movement to legalize or decriminalize cannabis nationwide has never been stronger, even with Republicans running Washington.

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CANNABIS

Cannabis is a life-saving alternative to opiates and it can generate billions of dollars in tax revenue No w, t he Depa r t men t of Ju s t ice is u sing a w el l-me a ning f eder a l a c t t o f orce gun l ov ing Ok l a hom a ns t o choo se be t w een guns or c a nn a bis While Obama was open about his past cannabis use, and toward the end of his second term said publicly that marijuana is less harmful than alcohol, he never made a push to change federal laws. Instead, he directed his Justice Department not to intervene with states that had legalized medical marijuana, allowing the industry to flourish and eventually giving states the confidence to legalize recreational cannabis. But when it came to actually changing the federal laws that have imprisoned thousands of minorities for minor marijuana violations, Obama punted to Congress. Obama knew that a Republican-led Congress would never change its laws while he was in office, and he focused on more attainable priorities. Ironically, federal law may finally be relaxed under the most farright presidential administration in modern history. For Trump, it’s an issue not likely to galvanize his conservative base one way or the other. In 2000, only 31% of Americans in a Gallup poll supported legalizing marijuana. Recent polls show support at more than 60%. A whopping 94% of Americans support medical marijuana, according to a recent Quinnipiac poll— that includes 86% support among Republicans. On recreational legalization, polls have shown Republican support at anywhere from 41% to 51%. Expect those numbers to continue rising across party lines as more Americans try recreational cannabis in legal states and Canada, which just become the world’s second country to end its federal cannabis prohibition. But that doesn’t mean the anti-crowd won’t go down without a fight. Federal authorities have already warned Oklahomans that they cannot legally possess marijuana and also own a firearm, citing the 1993 Brady Act which bans gun owners from using illegal controlled substances. Because cannabis is illegal on a federal level, prospective gun owners are required to answer “yes” on their Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms paperwork when asked if they

are an unlawful user of marijuana. It doesn’t matter if they have a prescription or live in a state where recreational use is legal. Under Obama, the Department of Justice released a memorandum emphasizing that its focus was on “preventing violence and the use of firearms in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana” rather than keeping lawful gun owners from obtaining cannabis in states where it’s legal. Now, the Department of Justice is using a well-meaning federal act to force gun loving Oklahomans to choose between guns or cannabis. In Florida, it’s state leaders trying to subvert the public will to use marijuana. More than 70% of Floridians in 2016 voted for the legalization of medical marijuana. After much debate in the conservative state Legislature, lawmakers allowed the sale of cannabis oil but deemed it illegal to smoke cannabis. In June, a judge ruled that ban unconstitutional. But the state, under the direction of term-limited Gov. Rick Scott, is appealing the decision. For now, Florida dispensaries cannot sell cannabis in flower form. The Florida Supreme Court will eventually hear the case — but the Court, full of Rick Scott appointees, declined to expedite the hearing. Scott is running for U.S. Senate this November, so expect this to become a campaign issue both in the Senate races and in the governor’s race to replace Scott. But despite politicians like Jeff Sessions and Rick Scott ignoring the public will, it’s likely too late to stop the green rush. As more Americans support the legalization of marijuana, politicians on both sides of the aisle will find it politically acceptable to follow suit. Cannabis is a life-saving alternative to opiates and it can generate billions of dollars in tax revenue. If Oklahoma can get behind marijuana, America is on the path to decriminalization. 3

Follow Andrew Abramson on Twitter @AbramsonFL

BY TOM FORREST

Silicic Acid cid ilicic A S

SILICIC ACID

ilicon (Si) is the second most abundant element present in the Ear th’s crust. Soils generally contain up to 40% silicon (Kovda 1973) and plants use this key element in vast amounts. Recent advancements in the production of silicon fer tilizer compounds and manufacturing techniques

are giving farmers access to a new wave of silicate products.

Silicate compounds are essential to fight plant disease and for pest resistance petrol, silicates must be “refined” before The physically and chemically active Si Microbes or other they can be used. However, this might substances in the soil are represented chemicals must not be a problem, because it is elemental by monosilicic acids, polysilicic acids, and come into play so the silicon that plants need, not silicic acid organosilicon compounds (Matichenkov per se. and Ammosova, 1996). These forms of plants can benefit silicon are interchangeable with each other, from the silicates in Silicon-oxide bonds are very strong as well as with other crystalline minerals the ecosystem bonds that do not “magically” break up. and living organisms (soil microbes and Therefore, adding silicates (SiO2 and plants). Silicic acid is the general name for a such) to your plant’s diet does not help them in their need family of chemical compounds containing the element silicon for silicon. Microbes or other chemicals must come into play attached to oxide and hydroxyl groups. so the plants can benefit from the silicates in the ecosystem. Adding silicic acid, on the other hand, will benefit your plants Monosilicic acid (H4SiO4) is the center of these interactions immediately in their need for silicon, because this form of and transformations. Monosilicic acid is the product of silicon silicon is readily available without the help of mineralization mineral dissolution (Lindsay 1979), absorbed by plants and by microbes in the ecosystem. Having said that, potassium living organisms (Yoshida 1975). They can influence the silicate products do still have an effect on plants because chemical and biological properties of the soil, including the silicates can be turned into absorbable molecules by significant interactions with phosphorus, aluminum, iron, organisms or other chemicals (e.g. strong acids). manganese and other metal mobility. Monosilicic acid is also essential in the formation of polysilicic acids and secondary minerals, however, plants and microbes can only absorb monosilicic acid (Yoshida 1975). Polysilicic acids will influence soil texture, water retention, cation exchange capacity, and soil erosion stability (Matichenkov et al, 1995). Modern agricultural research and manufacturing in Europe have developed novel methods of blending and isolating these silicic acid compounds in a stable form (with a long shelf life; essential for successful product development). Brands are now available worldwide with extremely high concentrations of silicic acids. There is an ongoing debate about the efficacy of monosilicic acid products vs older potassium silicate products. The benefits of silicic acid products over typical potassium silicate products are easy to explain. Silicic acid products (such as Super Si) contain just that: an absorbable form of silicic acid. Potassium silicate is a molecule that does not contain silicic acid, but silicate (SiO2), which is not readily available for plants. Scientists agree that for horticultural purposes, the amount of silicic acid that is yielded from dissolving potassium silicate into water is almost non-existent. Much like crude oil versus

Monosilicic acid is readily absorbable by the plant and can also make an aqueous solution more acidic, which increases absorbability of other minerals. Other forms of silicon in the soil are not easily assimilated by plants and only a small proportion is absorbed as H4SiO4. Once absorbed by the plant, silicon polymerizes when it dehydrates and concentrates on the epidermis cells as biogenic amorphous silicon (SiO2). This biological process illustrates that silicate compounds are essential to fight plant disease and for pest resistance (Epstein 1999). Silicon can also alleviate various abiotic stresses including salt stress, metal toxicity, drought stress, radiation damage, nutrient imbalance, high temperatures, freezing and more. These beneficial effects are mainly attributed to the high accumulation of silica in the surface tissue. Soil structure degradation occurs if a soil is lacking in silicon. This influences the decomposition of secondary minerals that control numerous growth factors and other soil structure properties. Silicon fertilizer also absorbs phosphorus and decreases leaching of the mineral by 40-90% (Matichenkov et al, 2000). It is noteworthy that the phosphorus is kept in a plant-available form. 59

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SILICIC ACID

Microbes or other chemicals must come into play so the plants can benefit from the silicates in the ecosystem

Numerous field experiments have demonstrated that Si fertilization has more influence on plant growth for acid soils than liming (Ayres, 1966; Fox et al, 1967). Si fertilizers have also been proven to increase the productivity of crop yield, as well as the concentration of essential oils and sugars. When using any silicon product, it is essential to add this compound to your reservoir first. This drastically reduces the likelihood of silicate compounds negatively reacting with base nutrients. Silicon product dilution rates vary, however, the best products will have a dilution rate of 1.5mL per 10L of water. This ratio can be doubled at the start of the flowering cycle to reduce plant stretching and decrease internodal spacing in certain plant varieties. As the silicon is deposited in the walls of epidermal cells after absorption by plants, it contributes considerably to stem strength.

These essential compounds allow for a plethora of growth benefits in almost all plant species, while potentially improving the quality of your soil

Silicon is not a very mobile element in plants. Therefore, a continuous supply of this element would be required for healthy and productive development during all growth stages. Silicic acid products are especially effective when used as a foliar spray, however, the concentration required is higher and these are generally used at 1mL per 1L of water. Despite the scientifically-recognized fact that plants take up silicon equivalent to some macronutrients, it is still not widely recognized as an essential element. This could be due to the non-availability of any product having a defined concentration of orthosilicic acid. The differences between monosilicic acid and orthosilicic acid are purely in the names of the two substances. In essence, none of the silicic acid products that are sold in the market contains molecules as simple as Si(OH)4. Most of the products contain chains of silicon elements coupled with loads of oxide and hydroxyl groups. In general, people refer to orthosilicic acid when they talk about water-soluble or plant absorbable silicon compounds. But in chemical, historical, and linguistic terms, orthosilicic acid

is defined as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the trueâ&#x20AC;? silicic acid, or something that is readily available. Monosilicic acid is the name for a single silicic acid molecule. But since silicic acid has various forms in which it exists, this term is rather strange. Including silicon in any fertilizer regime is extremely important. These essential compounds allow for a plethora of growth benefits in almost all plant species, while potentially improving the quality of your soil. For our favorite fruits or flowers, it can drastically improve the quantity and the quality of the final harvest. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hesitant to change your existing nutrient regime, try using a monosilicic acid foliar spray like SuperSi on half of your crop. Spray twice per week at night during the vegetative growth period, and enjoy the results of a serious silicon superstar! 3 61

BY ALBERT MONDOR, HORTICULTURIST AND BIOLOGIST

flexitarian is someone who limits his consumption of meat, but who is not exclusively vegetarian. The flexitarian diet can be practised in a variety of ways: some people do not eat meat every meal or regularly choose to make an entire day meatless, while

others are vegetarians most of the time, but occasionally eat meat.

GROWING PROTEIN

About a third of North Americans avoid eating meat at least a day a week. Elsewhere in the world, a 2015 survey found that 56% of French people claimed to eat less meat than they did before, whereas only 3% said they had increased their meat consumption.

One of the challenges of flexitarianism is to maintain a sufficient daily intake of protein

Kale is one of the easiest plants to grow in a container Just like vegetarians, most flexitarians want animals to be treated better and have many environmental concerns, especially when it comes to climate change. Others impose dietary constraints for a variety of economic, health or social reasons. One of the challenges of flexitarianism is to maintain a sufficient daily intake of protein. Here are some protein-rich plants that you can grow at home: • • • • •

Broccoli Edamame (soy) Spinach Bean Kale

• • • • •

Corn Parsley Peas Quinoa Sunflower

Pea sprouts grown on a kitchen counter

Although it is usually the seeds that have the highest protein content, young shoots of broccoli, spinach, kale, parsley and peas can also provide large amounts. You can also eat the leaves of beans, quinoa and soy. These plants will be ready to be eaten about two to three weeks after sowing when their leaves are well developed. Sunflowers and corn can also be grown using this technique, but only their foliage will be ready to eat.

Quinoa grown in a Canadian garden

These protein-rich plants can be easily grown outdoors in containers, either on a terrace or balcony. Keep in mind that larger vegetable crops, such as corn and sunflower, grow better and produce higher yields if grown directly in the ground with a fair amount of compost. During the winter in northern parts of North America and Europe, it is imperative to grow these edible plants indoors, ideally under artificial lighting. Seeds can simply be placed in pots or a plastic tray filled with moist potting soil. The seeds are then covered with some substrate and a translucent dome can be placed on the pots or tray to maintain maximum moisture. 63

GROWING PROTEIN

It is imperative to grow these edible plants indoors, ideally under artificial lighting Sprouts and Microgreens In Your Kitchen Sprouts and microgreens are more popular than ever, particularly among millennials. They can be used in salads, sandwiches, spring rolls, sushi and even smoothies! Here is how to grow your own sprouts and microgreens:

Sprouts Growing sprouts is simply a matter of sprouting seeds and consuming them when rootlets begin to grow, usually within 2 to 7 days. In addition to promoting the elimination of certain substances that impede digestion, sprouting increases the number of nutrients available. 5 Steps To Growing Sprouts:

3. 4.

Rinse the seeds and soak them in warm water for a few hours. Empty the water, rinse the seeds and place them at the bottom of a 500 ml Mason jar. Do not put more seeds than it takes to cover the bottom of the jar. Cover the opening of the jar with a piece of cheesecloth held in place with an elastic band. Place the jar upside down in a bowl at an angle so that air can circulate. You can put the jar in a dimly lit place in your kitchen, as light is not needed for germination of most seeds. Rinse the seeds once or twice daily until small white rootlets are visible, indicating that they are ready to eat.

Corn microgreens

Microgreens Microgreens are usually crunchier and tastier than sprouts. They are typically harvested a little later than sprouts, about 7 to 21 days after sowing. Microgreens are harvested when the first two leaves - which are actually cotyledons used to feed the plant before the growth of true leaves - are well developed. You can also wait for true leaves to come out before harvesting. 5 Steps To Growing Microgreens: 1.

2. 3.

4. image: indiaphile

5. Sprouted beans

Put about 2â&#x20AC;? of moist potting soil in a reclaimed plastic tray (the kind used for salad and other greens in supermarkets). Lightly press the potting soil and sprinkle the seeds. Cover the seeds with a little substrate and close the lid or place a translucent dome on the tray to maintain maximum moisture. If the majority of seeds do not need light to germinate, once the stems are out, it is necessary to expose them to the light coming from a south-facing window or from an artificial lighting system. Do not forget to add some water if the substrate is dry; if condensation forms, be sure to open the dome for a few minutes. 3 65

BY STONEY TARK

WAYS

To Make The Most Of Your Water

BETTER WATER

When using Rockwool or coco for hydroponic growing, hard water can cause nutrient build-up around the roots

ater is a fundamental part of our everyday lives, especially when it comes to farming. Obtaining it through their roots and foliage, plants need water in order to grow healthy and strong. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a list of five things to consider about the water used for your garden.

Hard Water

Water Softening

Calcium and magnesium both play a role in the hardness of water; whether your water source is hard or soft is determined by the number of calcium bicarbonates dissolved. You will always know if you have hard water, as it will likely leave a white chalky residue around drinking glasses, and when boiling water in a saucepan, the evaporated water will leave behind a clear white residue. Around taps, calcium deposits will cause scale buildup.

Hard water comes from a source that is close to mineral-rich rocks. The conductivity of hard water is high, as is the pH level due to the high amounts of calcium and magnesium present.

Hard water comes from a source that is close to mineral-rich rocks. The conductivity of hard water is high, as is the pH level due to the high amounts of calcium and magnesium present. An EC reading will not reflect through the number of salts or chemicals in the water source, but you can always use a nutrient analysis kit. This way, you will be able to determine what exactly is in the water that may be harmful to you, the soil and your plants. To purify hard water, you can buy reverse osmosis kits or water softeners. When water is tested to determine the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium, the hardness factor is based on what ppm is registered. Below is a list of the various levels of hardness in water. (1)

ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm

Reverse Osmosis This process is similar to water softening but has no negative effects associated with drinking or feeding your plants. Reverse osmosis is a carefully performed filtering process which uses porous membranes to remove particles, ions, and molecules from water. Using RO water is the best option for hydroponic growing because it allows you to increase the nutrient absorption rate and provide the most consistent feeding regimes. RO water is incredibly pure, but unfortunately, the process is drip-by-drip, meaning producing enough of it to keep up with the high demands of conventional large-scale growing or farming is not possible. While RO systems are very expensive, they are an excellent way to completely clean water used for either drinking or smaller gardens.

IMAGE CREDIT: /www.protec-arisawa.com

< 15 < 15 - 50 < 50 - 100 < 100 - 200 < 200

This is a process used to remove high levels of calcium and magnesium from a water source, such as from a well where it is in permanent contact with mineral-rich rock. Water softening involves using sodium as an ion to draw out the trace amounts of calcium. Keep in mind, this isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t best practice, as excess amounts of sodium can be toxic to plants leading to problems in the garden later on.

= Very Soft = Soft = Medium Soft = Hard = Very Hard

BETTER WATER

Hard water may leach calcium onto pipes as temperatures fluctuate in your indoor garden

Very hard water: natural travertine (calcium carbonate minerals pools and terraces in Pamukkale(South-West Turkey)

Growing Medium

Harvesting Rainwater

The growing medium used is a very important factor when it comes to water usage and feeding plants. Replacing ions held inside the structure of the water molecule can be difficult, especially if you have hard water. Some water sources are polluted with various chemicals and salts. A well-balanced, organic medium will have the capacity to not only break down and naturally buffer nutrients, but also adjust the pH levels.

Finding a reliable and plentiful source of water can be challenging in various parts of the world where reverse osmosis or advanced filtering systems are not possible or even available. This is why many farmers choose to collect rainwater, which is not only cheap but can also be very beneficial to gardens. When rain falls from the sky, nitrogen is absorbed from the atmosphere and is utilized by plants. Keep in mind that when collecting rainwater, you must be conscious of what the water will come into contact with. (2) Ideally, you want the water to avoid potential contaminants such as older roofing, asphalt or moss-covered slopes. A smooth, metal surface will decrease the chances of harmful bacteria leaching into the water. 3

The overall retention of primary and trace elements is far higher with a commercial potting soil mix, making it better suited for hard water use and commercial farming. When using a recirculating system, soft water is recommended as it has the integrity to gel with tiny chelates present in the hydroponic nutrient. Hard water may leach calcium onto pipes as temperatures fluctuate in your indoor garden. It is also important to note that when using Rockwool or coco for hydroponic growing, hard water can cause nutrient buildup around the roots.

references 1. https://www.scribd.com/doc/47770908/Analysis-of-Hard-Water 2. http://pages.uoregon.edu/hof/S01havestingrain/data.html

BIO Stoney Tark is a freelance writer with over 15 years experience in the canna industry. Specializing in plant science, tutorials, how-to-guides, top tips, microbiology, breeding and all fundamentals cannabis-based. Living in Amsterdam, Stoney writes for Soft Secrets and Garden Culture Magazine, and is presently working on a new project. Follow him on Instagram: @officialstoneytark @bluedoorscannabismagazine

DR CALLIE SEAMAN

grow room h ygiene

GROW ROOM HYGIENE

K eep in mind t here a re se v er a l a re a s t h at c a n h a rb or pat hogenic microbe s un t il t he y ta k e up p erm a nen t re sidence w i t h your p l a n t s

ave you ever had a friend tell you their plant roots are brown and slimy? A classic case of root rot. Maybe someone has told you they have bud rot and their produce is covered with grey mold. Or, their crops are blanketed with a white powdery dustâ&#x20AC;Ś the list goes on and on.

Having been in their grow room and seen the state they leave their equipment, you might not be surprised. Grow rooms are the perfect environment for various types of microbes to thrive; the good and the bad. Whether it be bacteria, fungus or a virus, it can make you and your plants sick. Any form of disease or pest in your grow room can be devastating, either reducing yields or destroying entire crops. Prevent such outbreaks with simple hygiene! From easy, everyday rituals, to high-tech sterilisation equipment, there are several ways to keep your grow room clean.

From easy, everyday rituals, to high-tech sterilization equipment, there are several ways to keep your grow room clean

By definition, hygiene is the conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness. One of the most basic rules is washing your hands. The physical action of scrubbing and rinsing removes the highest percentage of microbes from our hands, no matter what kind of soap is being used. The same principle applies to your grow room; there is no replacement for elbow grease and regular cleaning. When cleaning your grow room, keep in mind there are several areas that can harbor pathogenic microbes until they take up permanent residence with your plants. These potential hazards include pump filters, pipework, dirty measuring cups, dead plant material, buckets of still water or nutrients, dirty sponges, old growing media, dirty plant pots, and scalpels. Removing dead plant material from the room is incredibly important; so is cleaning and sterilizing equipment after use, and regularly cleaning out the pump filters

and pipework. Media can sometimes contain microbes that are pathogenic to plants. Often, good quality growing media such as coco is steam-sterilized and then inoculated with Trichoderma to keep disease out.

The air blowing into the room via the intake fan can also be cause for trouble. If the air passes plants with powdery mildew, the spores will likely spread. Placing a carbon filter or a UV ozone generator on your intake fan can help prevent such a situation. Anything dipped into a nutrient tank can be a source of contamination, and therefore, a means of transferring any disease from one tank to another. This includes pH meters, CF meters, mixing spoons, syringes and measuring cups. Cleaning these tools between uses with antimicrobials is highly recommended. Rather than dipping a syringe directly into nutrient solution or other bottles, pour the liquid into cups and measure it from there before adding it to the nutrient tank. Be sure to properly sterilize your scalpels, as this tool is used to cut into the plant; anything on its surface has a direct route into the flesh. Often overlooked as sources of disease are seeds and cuttings. Before germination, seeds are usually sterilized by soaking in alcohol and sodium hypochlorite. Unfortunately, chemical methods can impact the germination rate, and if not rinsed properly, the seeds can lead to the toxicity of young seedlings. High-quality seed producers often pre-sterilize their seeds so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to. When it comes to cuttings, always look at the condition of the room they were taken from. Ask if the room has battled 71

GROW ROOM HYGIENE

Medi a c a n s ome t ime s c on ta in microbe s t h at a re pat hogenic t o p l a n t s disease or pests in the past, though There are several sterilization methHumans are you might not always get the truth! ods you can try in your grow room: Quarantining cuttings before allownot immune to ing them into your room is always Chemical: illness caused a wise choice, however, a lack of Chemicals such as sodium hypochlospace may not make this possible. rite, hydrogen peroxide (unstable), by poor hygiene Treating new plants with pesticides ethanol, ozone and peracetic acid are in the grow or fungicides before taking them all used to kill microbes within hydroroom into the room is another option. If ponic systems and grow rooms. Silver you choose to go this route, always stabilized hydrogen peroxide has the research the chemical you plan on added benefit of increasing the oxyusing, particularly if you are consuming the produce. gen content of the nutrient solution and leaves no residual Non-toxic and biodegradable contact killers that suffochemicals when broken down to water in the tank. Unforcate insects are my favorite, and they can be applied to tunately, sodium hypochlorite will increase the concentracuttings before they go into your grow room. tion of sodium and chlorides in your tank, and has, in my opinion, a nasty smell. Humans are not immune to illness caused by poor hygiene in the grow room. For example, air conditioning Heat and pressure: systems contain refrigeration units and hold water, and Use heat to cook microbes to death without using any can, therefore, be a source of Legionella, which cause toxins. For the microbes that survive extreme heat, autolegionnaires disease. Keep yourself safe by always readclaving is used. This process applies a combination of high ing the manufacturing instructions on how to properly pressure and heat to equipment over an extended period clean the unit. If you are really concerned, test kits for of time. Autoclaving is most often used in laboratories and legionella in air conditioning units are also available. On for equipment being used for tissue culture. The average another note, leaving stagnant water in your room is grow room doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t typically need such extreme measures the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes which can of sterilization; autoclaving is both costly and time-conharbor malaria. suming. Still, the advantage to this method is the lack of residues and resistance that often occur in chemical sterilization.

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Qua r a n t ining cu t t ing s bef ore a l l ow ing t hem in t o your room is a lways a w ise choice

. Another option is using steam to sterilize your grow room; there are many portable units that can be used to clean walls and other surfaces, as well as equipment.

Irradiation: Even the name sounds scary! This type of sterilization falls into two categories: •

•

Filtration:

If your water source does not come from mains water, reverse osmosis is a good way to care for your plants

Non-ionising – This method uses UV lamps, which have germicidal properties. However, keep in mind that this can lead to degradation of plastics within your room. Repetitive, unprotected, direct exposure to this type of radiation can lead to skin cancer in humans as well. Ionising radiation - This includes gamma radiation from radioisotopes such as 137Cs (Caesium 137) or 60 Co (cobalt 60). This method is most often used for the sterilization of surgical equipment

Reverse osmosis not only removes salts from your water but also acts as a form of sterilization by removing microbial content. If your water source does not come from mains water, reverse osmosis is a good way to care for your plants with water free of unwanted microbes.

Remember; prevention is quite often easier than the cure, so take your health and the health of your plants into consideration and clean up after yourself! 3

BIO Dr. Callie Seaman is a plant obsessed Formulation Chemist at AquaLabs – the company behind SHOGUN Fertilisers and the Silver Bullet plant health range. She has been in the hydro industry for 15 years in research development and manufacturing and had previously worked on the VitaLink range. She has a PhD in fertiliser chemistry and a BSc (HONS) in Biomedical sciences and loves nothing more than applying this knowledge to pushing the boundaries of nutrient performance. 75

BY CATHERINE SHERRIFFS, PHOTOS: SERENA SAYERS

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It’s not every day you get to tour a farm that has revolutionized the way food is grown and how people eat. Lufa Farms built the world’s first commercial rooftop greenhouse on an industrial building in Montreal, Canada. Depending

strictly

hydroponics, crops are grown yearround and produce high-yields, feeding the city in an incredibly healthy and sustainable way. Garden Culture Magazine got to see how it’s done. For more from our blog, visit gcmag.co.

Garden Culture Tours World’s First Commercial rooftop Greenhouse

LUFA FARMS

Lufa Farms lives and dies by the rule of being fresh, local and responsible

pen the door to the greenhouse at Lufa Farms and you’re greeted by a sea of green; row upon row of sprawling cucumber vines, lush pepper plants, and what appears to be an endless supply of fresh herbs and microgreens. The scents of truly fresh food hit you almost right away; sweet, peppery and

even grassy aromatic waves come and go. The time and effor t put into what is grown here are humbling; so is the amazing technology used and the fact that unlike most commercial greenhouses, we’re three stories high on a rooftop overlooking the city of Montreal.

The Dream: Fixing A Broken System Lufa Farms lives and dies by the rule of being fresh, local the greenhouse to various zones ideal for their current and responsible, and the passion and dedication to that growing stages. How’s that for sophistication? motto are evident as you walk through the greenhouse. It wasn’t so long ago that all of this was a dream; co-founders How It Works Mohamed Hage and Lauren Rathmell wanted to fix a The concept behind Lufa is simple: people customize broken food system by connecting city-dwellers with what their own food baskets online, ordering everything from they put into their bodies. The idea was to feed cities with fresh fruits and vegetables to locally-crafted bread, pasta, food grown in their own backyards, or in this case, on their cheeses and even chocolates. All of the 230 partners are very own rooftops, so as not to put any chosen for the fact that they too practice The scents of more pressure on agricultural land outside sustainability. Some are organic, but all of of the city. them meet Lufa’s high-standard of being truly fresh food environmentally responsible. hit you almost In 2009, Hage and Rathmell started right away; sweet, When Lufa Farms first started in 2009, it searching Google Maps for available pepper y and even distributed 300 baskets a week. Today, it rooftop space in the city that had just the right amount of sun. They narrowed delivers close to 13,000 to customers across grassy aromatic the list down to 10 roofs, and all but one the province of Quebec. Everything in the waves come building owner said ‘no’ to their vision of baskets is harvested to order, meaning a and go building a greenhouse closer to the sky. few short hours after the order is placed, Two years later the first planting began. the particular basket’s contents are picked Today, the company has expanded to three hydroponic rooftop greenhouses across Montreal, providing 138,000 sq ft of growing space for everything from cucumbers, tomatoes, and eggplants, to peppers, fresh herbs, lettuce, and microgreens. With each greenhouse built, Lufa becomes more sustainable and efficient in their practices. For example, its most recent greenhouse is incredibly hightech; from seed to harvest, plants automatically roll through

LUFA FARMS

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or baked, packaged in compostable bags, and delivered to one of 450 pick-up points. Lufa also has a fleet of electric cars to facilitate home deliveries. The rise in Lufa’s popularity was almost inevitable, driven by not only the quality and freshness of its food but by the five principles that guide its way of farming:

1. Using No New Land

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Lufa Farms repurposes what already exists and to relieve pressure on the world’s soil, never develops new land. Rooftops are lost space, so building greenhouses there makes sense and also helps them farm closer to city-dwellers.

2. Beneficial Bugs

“ the greenhouse also collects irrigation water which is fed to the plants af ter nutrient solutions are added.”

No pesticides, herbicides or fungicides are ever used at Lufa Farms. In fact, beneficial insects are introduced to the greenhouse to control pests the natural way. Non-invasive ladybug species and parasitic wasps eat the aphids on the crops; bumblebees have been brought in to pollinate the plants. Grafting is used on the tomato plants to create great-tasting fruit that is also resistant to fungus.

3. Saving Energy The beauty of growing in a rooftop greenhouse is heat comes fairly cheap from the sunlight and the building below. The benefits are mutual; Lufa says the building owners have also reported saving 30% in energy costs every year. The LED lights used for seedlings and microgreens don’t use very much energy, and the HPS lighting used for other crops also generate a good amount of heat. When we took our tour, an “energy curtain” had been deployed by a software that constantly examines the heat and light levels in the greenhouse. It acts as a blanket, providing perfect conditions for the food growing in Montreal’s temperamental climate. Air conditioning is never used to cool the crops when it gets too hot; instead, a huge cardboard panel mounted on the wall has cold water running through it, and ventilators on the other side of the room pull the resulting cool air through the greenhouse.

4. Saving Water All of the water used inside the greenhouse is recirculated through a closed-loop system and delivered to the crops. Water that isn’t used by the plants runs down the sloped tables below them, finding its way into a gutter-like system which brings it back to a holding tank. Being on a roof, the greenhouse also collects irrigation water which is fed to the plants after nutrient solutions are added.

“With each greenhouse built, Lufa becomes more sustainable and ef ficient in their practices.”

5. Reducing Waste One-third of the world’s food goes to waste, and Lufa Farms does its part by harvesting only what has been ordered by its customers and delivering it at the peak of its freshness. Even though the greenhouses are completely hydroponic, any green waste is composted and sold in the online marketplace.

Sources used: https://www.netflix.com/ca/title/80146284 79

LUFA FARMS

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How It’s Grown Lufa Farms uses two types of hydroponic systems: NFT and grow bags, depending on the various needs of the crop. Coconut fiber is the substrate of choice, and with little choice, the fertilizers used are synthetic.

“Hydroponics was the natural choice because at the core of Lufa’s values is the desire to grow where most of the population lives while also reducing pressure on our soil.”

The HPS lights are more commonlyused in the areas of the greenhouse where the cucumbers are grown, for example, which aren’t native to Canada and demand a lot of light and heat. The LED’s are used for the herbs and microgreens so as not to burn their delicate leaves while providing their lighting needs. The day’s natural periods of light and dark are always obeyed, meaning the grow lights are never used continuously overnight.

Growing hydroponically means Lufa Farms doesn’t use soil, and therefore can’t qualify for organic certification in Canada. But it carefully weighed the pros and cons of each

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before embarking on this amazing venture. Hydroponics was the natural choice because at the core of Lufa’s values is the desire to grow where most of the population lives while also reducing pressure on our soil. Contrary to conventional farming, the hydroponic systems used in Lufa’s greenhouses recycle all of the water and nutrients used, resulting in very efficient practices.

A True Inspiration

Lufa Farms uses two t ypes of hydroponic systems: NF T and grow bags, depending on the various needs of the crop.

The love, passion and hard work behind the food grown at Lufa Farms are clear, as is the connection it has made from farm to table. Lufa is a leader in the world when it comes to growing food for its taste and nutritional value, rather than for its longevity, durability, and potential for uniformity. What started out as a dream to change the way we eat has finally become a reality. And I’m inspired. 3

Sources used: https://www.netflix.com/ca/title/80146284 81

BY NICO HILL

That’s right, dearest reader; it’s time for the latest instalment of how to make your own organic growing inputs, cour tesy of Korean Natural Farming practices. Ditch the bot tles, make your own inputs and feel like a complete boss while you’re doing it.

LACTIC ACID BACTERIA

t’s the little things in life that count: something I constantly re-iterate to my loving wife. Like some sort of defensive mantra that is definitely in no way linked to the size of my manhood, the quality of any one particular thing in life is always of much more importance than its quantity. As The Flight of the Conchords say “two minutes in heaven is better than no minutes

in heaven”. Sure, bigger things may initially seem more gratifying to our inherently greedy human brains, but I’d much rather a small amount of something perfect, than a huge load of something satisfactory.

credit: www.biocharireland.com

What I’m trying to convey is just how immaking their way in. Similar to how bouncers “it is crucial that por tant small things are, especially when at a club turn away groups of drunken men you almost pay talking about bacteria. In a similar fashion without any women with them, but probably more at tention to their fungal friends, they play a wide with a higher IQ. to promoting the variety of roles in plant growth and are health of your soil par ticularly crucial when growing in an But wait – there’s more! Not only do they help organic setting. Soil life thrives with a biolog y than you do to out-populate bad bacteria, they also help healthy and diverse biology, so it is cruto break down organic nutrients locked away the actual plants cial that you almost pay more attention to in those pesky organic carbon complexes growing in it” promoting the health of your soil biology within your media. The decomposition than you do the actual plants growing in of organic matter/amendments is greatly it. One par ticular type of beneficial bacteria that you can increased within the media when you apply a LAB serum, easily culture from the natural world is Lactic Acid Bacteria meaning a much greater availability of nutrients for absorption (LAB), which will be the focus of our attention for the next by the plants. For this reason, they are a fantastic addition when few pages. you are making your own compost or compost teas, as they will help to greatly increase the availability of all of that lovely What exactly are LAB’s? organic nutrient. It’s kind of like little knives and forks going Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) are a particularly interesting group around and cutting up all the food on the plate ready for the of bacteria that are one of the key components of a full-blown plant to eat. KNF regime. Why are they particularly interesting, I hear you ask? Well, they are one of the few groups of bacteria that are One thing to potentially look out for when you are using LAB capable of functioning in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. culture, particularly with fruiting plants, is that you slow down “Anaerobic bacteria?” I hear you cry, “What the crikey-fuck do with the application rate towards the end of the flowering you want them for? That’s root disease territory isn’t it?” Well, cycle. This is just to ensure that you are not over applying yes, the majority of root diseases are anaerobic pathogens, but LAB’s, as in certain circumstances, over application can actually these bacteria are cut from an entirely different cloth, my friend. cause a response in the plant that will lower the Brix levels in This particular group of bacteria (as the name would suggest) your fruits. This obviously results in a slight loss of sweetness produce lactic acid as a by-product of their digestive process. in the overall flavour of your fruit, something to be avoided if LAB are extremely widespread in nature, found pretty much at all possible. everywhere in the environment, hence why capturing and culturing them is actually quite an easy and fun process. This is also one of the first steps in making your own cheese.

There are a few ways in which making use of LAB can benefit your grow. You don’t even have to go the whole hog on the organic regime front either; you can integrate it quite easily into pretty much any style of growing. One of the first things they do is simply populate space in your media. This might sound a bit boring and of no significance, but by populating free space in your media, they will be preventing harmful pathogens from ever

IMAGE: confessionsfromthesoil.wordpress.com

What do they even bloody do?

LACTIC ACID BACTERIA

“It’s kind of like lit tle knives and forks going around and cut ting up all the food on the plate ready for the plant to eat.”

How exactly do you make it? Essentially, what you are doing here is making curds and whey. Miss Muffet would probably love to get her hands on such freshly-prepared dairy produce.

1. Step 1: Wash your rice in some water. Just like you would if you were normally making rice, but rather than discarding the water, pour it into a container to about two thirds full. 2. Step 2: Cover the container with a breathable lid. Store in a cool, dry, and dark place, moving it as little as possible. 3. Step 3: Wait three to five days. You will know when it is done as the smell of the liquid will become slightly sweet. This means that LAB have cultured correctly in the solution. If you see any weird-looking bacteria growing on the surface during this time, discard and start again. 4. Step 4: Try to collect the middle layer of the solution. There will be a slightly thicker layer at the top of the liquid, which ideally you do not want to collect. Focus on the layer directly underneath this. 5. Step 5: Add 1-part cultured rice wash to 10 parts of your milk. Ideally, do not do this with milk that is either pasteurised (because of the antibiotics) or straight out of the fridge (slows the process down slightly). Once again, store in a cool, dry, and dark place. 6. Step 6: After three to five days (longer when temperatures are cooler), you will see that the solution has totally separated into curds and whey. The curds will be at the top and the yellow whey serum at the bottom. The yellow liquid is the LAB culture. 7. Step 7: Separate the solids from the liquids. This involves a quick straining through an appropriate implement. There will be a little layer of solids at the bottom as well; try to avoid collecting these in your final solution. 8. Step 8: Put LAB liquid into a container and store in a fridge for use. Use at 1 mL per litre once a week until the mid-flower period. If you want to make it for long-term storage, add equal weight brown sugar to the liquid.

Jobs a good’un So, that is basically it. You now are the proud owner of some LAB serum that is perfect for immediate use as a root drench, or just as good to use in a compost tea brew. It also makes a great addition to a compost pile, helping to process the waste into a rich material much faster than it would usually take. Like most KNF inputs, you can use this as a one-off additive, even if you aren’t growing in a typical organic environment. For example, if you are a coco/hydroponic grower, you can inoculate your media at 1 mL per litre to get all the benefits of Lactic Acid Bacteria, without changing anything else about your particular methods. Anyway, just remember the next time you are making some rice, that wastewater from the rinse could be put to much better use than simply pouring down your sink. 3

image credit: by Charmaster

What you will need: • Rice • Water • Container • Milk (preferably unpasteurised) • Strainer • Sugar (for long-term storage – optional)

Nico Hill - Hydro Nerd at InfiniteMonkey.com Nico has been a keen gardener for many moons. Bitten by the hydroponic bug back in 1998, and hasn’t looked back since! After many years as a hobby, Nico’s career in Hydroponics had its start working for Aquaculture in Sheffield, the UK’s largest and most forward-thinking grow shops of the time. He was then hired by Hydromag, responsible for the hydroponic content. From there, he has worked with CANNA, as editor of CANNAtalk, author of the research articles, and delivering seminars throughout the UK to grow shops on the finer details of cultivating in a hydroponic environment. Nico is now writing for companies in the hydroponic industry.

Bio

BY NICO HILL

Korean

Nat ural F arming F undamentalis ts

KNF FUNDAMENTALISTS

he Korean Natural Farming movement is one that has been steadily snowballing along for a good while now. Star ting geographically from its roots in (of course) Korea, it has slowly and surely gained momentum and spread throughout the entire world. With laws relating to cannabis production in the

Americas over the past few years, there has been a great deal of interest in methods of organic crop production with people desiring only the cleanest of medicines for the top shelf of their cabinets. At the heart of every movement are the people involved in said activities. Without them, I wouldn’t be writing this article and trying to encourage all you hydro-purists to pick up some brown sugar on your way back from the hydro store. A few issues ago we had a brief look into Master Cho’s background considering he is the father of the whole thing. But, there are, of course, a lot more characters involved in the whole story, and their diversity is pretty much a microcosm of a fully functioning, organic, living soil. Most people getting into KNF will no doubt venture straight onto YouTube to see what tutorials there are on all the different things you can make. This route of engagement will no doubt land you directly onto the lap of a Mr Chris Trump of Hawaii. This man is nothing short of a legend in his own right, maintaining a 500-acre Macadamia nut farm entirely using organic KNF methods – the largest example of which you will find in the world. His video tutorials are nothing short of inspirational, breaking down each part of KNF in a nice and concise way.

‘Don’t worry Chris, my love for you is merely platonic’

Contributions from Chris are also found on the awesome website www.naturalfarminghawaii.net, created by Drake and co, who are all about enhancing people’s understanding of KNF and the natural world in general. It’s not all isolated to the tropical lands of Hawaii though; even in the grim and grey land of Blighty, there are those that have been trying to spread the good word for quite some time. Nigel Davenport of TNC (The Nutrient Company) has been harping on about how to make your own FPJ’s and LAB’s for a good while now, with plenty of info on his site about it all. The community of growers who are actually using KNF techniques and integrating it into their grows/daily lives is nothing short of the true heroes, though. If any of you have

There has been a great deal of interest in methods of organic crop production with people desiring only the cleanest of medicines for the top shelf of their cabinets heard of something called ‘Instagram’, there are definitely a good few peeps on there worth checking out, if only for the hilarious banter and memes. @microbe.alchemist is a great example of a grower applying and extolling the virtues of KNF, whilst keeping it all sewn together with some hilarious memes. @Masonic_ Smoker from Compton also comes out with some KNF gems now and again that will surely have you growing some of the infamous rippers I keep hearing about. Don’t ask him for actual advice, though – you’ll probably just get trolled.

The point of all this is that it seems to be a mainly peopledriven movement, which is hardly surprising as it basically goes directly against the principles big agricultural companies run by. Working alongside the natural world and creating your own inputs, rather than buying something in a plastic bottle made from dwindling mineral supplies. So, get involved, get your smug face out and start making your own inputs. We’ll have Bayer/Monsanto shut down in no time. 3 87

FARMING UNDER THE SEA

BY CATHERINE SHERRIFFS

How

Farming Under The Sea

Originally posted on June 29, 2018. GCMag.co/Farmingunder-the-sea

GardenCultureMagazine.com

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Is Changing The World

ne of my favorite movies as a kid was Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Before launching into a super catchy tune, Sebastian the crab tells his mermaid friend Ariel, “The human world, it’s a mess. Life under the sea is better than anything they got up there.”

What a visionary that crab was. Of course, there are many reasons for why he was right. But for this blog’s purposes, we’ll focus on one of our rapidly depleting natural resources: land.

His system is vertical, so he grows his kelp and seafood in water columns that hang from a line. Smith says in a 300 ft x 300 ft area, he can grow up to 26 tons of kelp in five months. His farm counters the destruction caused by traditional agricultural practices; the kelp he’s growing drinks up nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon pollution that leaks into the water, providing sanctuaries for crab, shrimp, and so many other marine species.

We depend heavily on agriculture because that’s how we get our food. Today, 11% of the world’s land is used for crop production, which is about the size of Canada and the United States put together. That doesn’t even take into account the fields used to Besides growing feed livestock. With the world population healthy food, Smith expected to hit 9.7 billion by the year is also helping 2050, we can no doubt expect to see clean up the mess more of our land disappear.

Looking For Other Ways

Besides growing healthy food, Smith is also helping clean up the mess we’ve made of the oceans. I can’t help but like this guy.

The problem is not everybody likes to eat kelp; seaweed has an acquired taste. But in order to feed future populations, we have to change both the way we eat and the way we grow. Crickets might one day replace cattle, so I’m sure there’s room somewhere for a lot of kelp in our diets. Thimble Island Ocean Farm has recruited celebrity chefs to make kelp sexy; think kelp pasta, kelp ice cream, and kelp cocktails. Yum!

we’ve made of the oceans. I can’t help but like this guy.

Is there any way around this? There are wonderful initiatives popping up all over the world, such as rooftop greenhouses and container farming. Another exciting and revolutionary model being introduced is underwater farming.

Under The Sea Completely different from aquaponics, this method actually grows food below the ocean’s surface. Take Thimble Island Ocean Farm in Stony Creek, Connecticut, for example. Owner Bren Smith is a pioneer in 3D farming, growing sugar kelp, oysters, clams and scallops beneath the water. In fact, Smith tells Popular Science he can feed the world with an area the size of Washington State. No land, no soil, and no chemicals; just water.

FARMING UNDER THE SEA

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now

Smith says underwater farming is well within reach for many people; $30,000, a boat and about 20 acres of the ocean can get you your own 3D farm. He’s even founded a non-profit called GreenWave that trains future ocean farmers and helps them get financial grants.

Nemo’s Garden

Nemo’s Garden sits below the sur face of the Mediterranean Sea and seeks to alleviate the pressure on the world’s soil while also protecting crops from changing climates

Near Savona, Italy, something similar is happening. Nemo’s Garden sits below the surface of the Mediterranean Sea and seeks to alleviate the pressure on the world’s soil while also protecting crops from changing climates. The garden started in 2013 as an experiment with a father and son team wanting to save their produce from the cold.

The garden is comprised of five air-filled biospheres which are anchored to the bottom of the sea and cover about 100 m2 . Each biosphere is equipped with webcams, as well as sensors for CO2, O2, humidity, temperature, and lighting. The sunlight penetrates the inner part of the dome, making the air inside the biospheres significantly warmer than the water itself. With stable climatic conditions, fresh herbs, lettuces, tomatoes, zucchini, beans and green peas grow beautifully in Nemo’s Garden via hydroponics.

image: Nemo’sGarden Youtube

image: the Water Brothers

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Gardening this way involves wearing scuba gear; when a diver enters the biosphere, half of their body remains in the water. How refreshing! Not only that; it’s completely bug-free. That’s something many gardeners can only dream of. Best of all, this underwater farm is eco-friendly and selfsustainable. Sebastian the crab might have been right; are things really better down where it’s wetter? 3

Sources: • • • • • • •

http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y4252e/y4252e06.htm http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/news/population/2015-report.html https://www.thimbleislandoceanfarm.com/ https://www.popsci.com/3d-underwater-farming https://gardenculturemagazine.com/beyond-the-garden/raising-bugs-as-livestock-cricket-powder-hits-store-shelves/ https://www.greenwave.org/ http://www.nemosgarden.com/science-behind-nemos-project/mission-criteria/

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BY TOM FORREST

eep Water Culture (DWC) is a hydroponic growing method that suspends plants above an aerated reservoir of water. The reservoir solution requires a rich, oxygenated mixture of H2O composites (water) and a hydroponic nutrient (fer tilizer) to feed the crop.

DWC cultivation can be very effective for fast growth and heavy-yielding plants. Plants have direct access to aerated nutrient (food) in functional mineral compounds. This method of hydroponics can be fun, seriously rewarding, and teaches new growers valuable lessons about the importance of root health, water quality and its contents. Deep Water Culture systems can yield exceptional results, however, this method of hydroponic production has certain risks that may cause the rapid demise of your favorite plants. To keep your crop healthy and happy in any kind of recirculating DWC system, ensure you follow these 10 essential guidelines:

1. Know Your pH

2. How Strong Is Your EC/TDS? Once we’ve made up our nutrient-rich water and checked the pH, we need to make sure the concentration of ‘food’ in the water is suitable for our crops and their stage of growth. The dissolved mineral compounds in hydroponic solutions allow for easy uptake by the plant. However, if too much or too little food is available, it can be harmful. DWC systems generally require a lower EC than other methods of hydroponic production, as the plants have direct access to nutrients without a structurally supportive substrate. We recommend always following feed charts but err on the lower side of concentration ratios. Generally, an EC of 0.8 – 1.8 is the ideal range for the complete life cycle of any heavy fruiting or flowering plants.

image credt: Plantcaretools

Varying pH levels encourage certain compounds to be more available to the plant and can influence whether environments are hospitable for beneficial bacteria. For DWC systems, it’s ideal to maintain a pH of between 5.5 – 5.8. This allows for effective nutrient uptake while reducing the risks of pathogens or disease. A higher pH can provide a welcoming environment for root problems like pythium, while pH that is too low can prevent nutrient uptake, causing the acidity to become harmful to delicate root hairs. Certain nutrients have been balanced with a mixture of compounds that stabilize the pH of a hydroponic solution while also encouraging rapid uptake of essential minerals. It’s always recommended to use a nutrient regime that has been designed specifically for recirculating water-based systems, as the pH and exchange capacity has been precisely calculated to keep your garden flourishing. image credt: Growth Technology

3. Aeration and Waterflow Dissolved oxygen refers to the level of free, non-compound oxygen present in water or other liquids. Non-compound oxygen, or free oxygen (O2), is oxygen that is not bonded to any other element. The bonded oxygen molecule in water (H2O) is in a compound and does not count toward dissolved oxygen levels. One can imagine that free oxygen molecules dissolve in water much the way sugar does when it is stirred. Plant growth requires dissolved oxygen to allow root hair development and for use in transpirational processes. In commercial hydroponic systems, the water is usually aerated using large air-pumps or by creating strong ‘waterfall’ arrangements where the water surface is broken by a constant flow of liquid.

DEEP WATER CULTURE

This me tho d of hydr op onic s c an b e f un, seriously r ewar ding, and teaches new gr ower s valuable les sons ab out the imp or t anc e of r oo t health, water qualit y and it s c ontent s 93

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New methods of DWC allow for aeration of a central reservoir alongside extra air provided in each individual pot. Water flow constantly moves aerated liquid around the system, ensuring consistent nutrients are delivered to every plant.

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DEEP WATER CULTURE

temperature also affects whether the liquid is habitable for living organisms. Higher temperatures (with reduced D/O) encourage anaerobic pathogens to attack delicate root hairs.

Water movement also influences nutrient uptake, as insufficient flow or stagnant areas can cause toxicities and deposits of unused nutrients. My advice for aeration is to always overcompensate with air pumps (and always have backup pumps).

The golden numbers for water temperature are between 64°F - 73°F (18°C - 23°C). Cultivation facilities utilise water chillers (and sometimes heaters) to stay within these parameters.

Water flow for ‘undercurrent’ systems should always use larger plumbing than typical feed irrigation; I’d suggest a minimum of 50-75mm (2-3”) PVC irrigation.

Now that we understand the important parameters of our hydroponic system, we need to keep them in check. Clever system design is crucial for effective growth throughout multiple growth cycles. Many systems are fantastic for the first few weeks, but after plant mass develops and plumbing is put to the test, they become impractical and frustrating.

5. Water Control and System Design

Ideally, your hydroponic system will prevent light from shining onto the water solution, while also providing ample water movement and aeration without accumulating algal growth. It should be easy to drain, clean and maintain; even with a heavy fruiting tree in the system.

4. Ideal Water Temperature Correct water temperature is the ultimate key to successful recirculating hydroponic production. The temperature of this life-giving liquid solution influences nutrient uptake, dissolved oxygen, pH and can be the difference-maker between happy, healthy, glowing white roots, or dark, smelly, disease-ridden struggles. Keeping your water temperature optimized is a balancing act influenced by both external and internal factors such as light, room temperature, system design, water pumps, air pumps, and crop cycle. If the water temperature is too high, the dissolved oxygen is reduced. Lower temperatures increase dissolved oxygen potential, however, cause slower plant growth. Water

My advice for effective design is to always use plumber’s tape for all joints; err on the larger pipe sizing, and try to have the correct water monitoring technology to keep an eye on all your important parameters (pH, EC and temperature).

6. Plant Spacing and Pot Sizing Depending on personal preference, you may have many plants in a single large reservoir, multiple plants spaced in their own modules, or a combination approach. Plants require much smaller pot sizes in DWC systems as there’s no need to accommodate soil particles or substrate! De-leafing and checking individual plants can become difficult if plants are not spaced correctly. This also affects your support trellising and training later in the flowering stage. The important lesson here is to expect larger and faster growth than traditional soil cultivation, so prepare your spacing and netting accordingly.

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DEEP WATER CULTURE

Always ensure your seedling or cutting has strong, established roots before transplanting into a hydroponic system.

Plants will grow significantly faster in DWC systems, and will, therefore, require some innovative structures and supports. Certain hydroponic systems have custom designed ‘cages’ to aid heavy fruiting plants and are extremely useful for optimized designated plant spacing. If you’ve designed your own system, we recommend considering the available netting options that you can install (and efficiently access) or alternatively, the classic ‘yo-yo’ solution is always adaptable for a variety of arrangements.

8. Seedlings and Substrates When transplanting into any hydroponic system, it can be easy to damage fragile seedlings. Most hydroponic systems will use expanded clay (clay-balls), perlite or growstone (recycled glass). These substrates hold very minimal moisture but allow for fantastic support for the initial developing root system. Always ensure your seedling or cutting has strong, established roots before transplanting into a hydroponic system. In commercial hydroponic tomatoes, they often set the seedling (in its Rockwool cube) on top of a slab, but without access to the slab underneath until the root density is sufficient. Keep an eye on the bottom of the cube until you see a healthy white root mass that looks ready to burst into your DWC system.

9. Water Changes – How Often and Why? The most common question posed by DWC gardeners is how often they need to change their reservoir or nutrient solution. Essentially, it’s a cost vs. reward calculation. Good, modern hydroponic nutrients are designed to be pH stable and allow for effective uptake of nutrient for anywhere between one and three weeks. The solution will be at its most effective when used only for the duration designated by the manufacturer. However, this is drastically influenced by your plants’ uptaking and exuding compounds from the solution, the water temperatures, the water filters, pumps and aeration alongside the variable factors from your home water source.

Floating Rafts of Lettuce in Deep Water Culture

image: AST Bead Filters

7. Plant Height and Support

Ideally, I’d sug ges t changing the water ever y one to t wo we eks to maint ain a fresh and healthy solution Ideally, I’d suggest changing the water every one to two weeks to maintain a fresh and healthy solution. This is also key to deter the accumulation of harmful bacteria and pathogens that can wreak havoc if left to breed uninhibited.

10. Automation DWC systems can be a means to automation and reducing labor, however like any garden system, optimized gardening requires constant vigilance. Systems can be programmed using clever dosing units that can control the input of nutrient and pH adjustment, while water temperatures can be maintained using reliable hydroponic chillers. Float valves are generally used to refill the main reservoir, however, these need to be checked regularly and engineered to prevent stagnant water. It depends on your budget as to the level of automation you can achieve in your DWC garden. However, it’s still possible to cultivate amazing gardens in a humble system!

Experiment with a DWC garden and let us know your experiences via @StealthGarden social media! 3

BIO Founder of Indicated Technology Pty Ltd, Tom is a certified horticulturalist and paid consultant working in the Australian medical cannabis industry. After finishing studies in production horticulture (hydroponics) and plant biology; Tom has spent the past 6 years working in the protected cropping space. Tom is passionate about sustainable yet economic cultivation methodologies and also teaches cannabis cultivation as part of university and private education programs. Tom is also the Communications Manager for Stealth Garden wholesale supplies. 97

BY PETER BAAS, PHD; COLIN BELL, PHD

Green Revolution

How Microbes Work In Hydroponics 98

MICROBES IN HYDROPONICS

Microbial solutions are the key element of the next green revolution In all natural terrestrial and aquatic systems, no plant exists that doesn’t interact with microbes

here are many benefits and challenges growers can experience when utilizing the natural power of beneficial microbes in hydroponic systems. We hope this will help shed light on how microbes work to suppor t plant growth and yield in soilless systems.

Soil microbes have been critical to plant growth since plants first evolved over 700 million years ago. To this day, soil bacteria and fungi continue to shape soil environments, allowing plants to thrive. Our team of PhD. scientists are dedicated to understanding how plant-microbial interactions support plant health and development in agriculture and natural ecosystems. In the cannabis industry, most living soil and organic growers understand the importance of using microbes to enhance plant nutrient uptake. However, it is less clear how microbes work to support plant growth in hydroponic growing. In hydroponic growing, the goal is to supply all nutrients that plants need in the ‘right’ amounts so they won’t become nutrient deficient. However, plant nutrient deficiencies and poor growth can still occur even if there is a plentiful nutrient supply in the reservoir solution. Applying beneficial microbes can help plants maximize their full phenotypic potential in two main ways; by maximizing nutrient recycling into accessible forms, and by inhibiting and/or excluding plant pathogens from affecting plant health. In all natural terrestrial and aquatic systems, no plant exists that doesn’t interact with microbes. Around the world, studies have clearly shown that soil and water samples can contain billions of microbial cells which represent tens of thousands of different bacterial and fungal species – and many of these microbes live within millimeters of plant roots (called the rhizosphere). After decades of research, we now understand that these interactions are so important that, in nature, plants actively recruit specific microbes to maximize their growth potential and success. Plants manipulate their rhizosphere microbiome (microbes in the root zone) through changes in the chemistry of compounds released through their roots. In the rhizosphere, microbes benefit plants

by continuously adjusting nutrient availability, supporting optimal plant growth conditions. To a large degree, microbes accomplish this by facilitating ion exchange processes on the surface of the roots – causing profound effects on improved plant nutrient uptake. Microbes are especially important for plant growth in aquatic systems; they maximize nutrient availability by degrading plant-produced organic compounds and converting them into beneficial metabolites. As this process takes place, plant physiology and metabolism are stimulated. Hydroponic systems are less buffered than natural systems, so using beneficial microbes can have an even greater positive impact! It is impossible to maintain a completely sterile environment in hydroponic growing. Early stage plant tissue culture grown in controlled laboratory environments is the only cultivation method known that allows for plants to grow in conditions completely devoid of microbes. All hydroponic systems will include microbes from the environment and all hydroponically grown plants have surface bacteria growing on their roots. Regardless, it is common practice to use disinfectant additives to keep hydroponic systems ‘as sterile as possible’ to control pathogenic microbes from infecting the plant. Using these products likely won’t kill all microbes or prevent them from rapidly reestablishing within days after sterilization efforts (although, hopefully, they are efficacious in limiting plant pathogens). As an alternative to using disinfectants, the use of beneficial microbes can reduce pathogenic microbes by outcompeting them for the resources necessary for growth. This approach extends the benefits of plant-microbial interactions into the hydroponic environment. Beneficial microbes protect plants against pathogens by growing along the surface areas of their roots – blocking pathogens from potential infection sites and

MICROBES IN HYDROPONICS

Beneficial microbes protect plants against pathogens by growing along the surface areas of their roots

competing against them. Microbes also facilitate chemical signaling which allows plants to naturally fight off diseases and reduce stress responses. Just like in nature, a healthy rhizosphere microbiome is necessary for a healthy plant immune system. One challenge when using microbes in hydroponics is environmental tolerance. Because many microbes do not persist well in hydroponic environments, we must understand how to select the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; microbes for our growing environment, which isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily easy! To successfully utilize the natural power of microbes in hydroponic growing, we must: 1. 2.

Understand how specific microbial groups function to support plant growth Identify which microbes can persist in hydroponic growing environments

The first step is to identify which microbes are most important for specific plant-beneficial functions. This is best accomplished with microbial consortia (groups of microbes), which interact closely with each other to perform complex functions like breaking down plant-released material to liberate nutrients. Likewise, the absence of beneficial microbes increases the risk of having pathogenic microbes and other pests establish. Introducing a highly functional microbiome into hydroponic environments - like in nature - maximizes microbial functions targeted at enhancing plant health and development.

image credit: customers.hbci.com

The absence of beneficial microbes increases the risk of having pathogenic microbes and other pests establish

There are many commercial microbial products that work well in hydroponic environments. It is impor tant to consider the environmental tolerances of different microbial groups to ensure success when using microbes. Even though mycorrhizae and other fungi play impor tant roles in enhancing plant growth in soils, the high nutrient concentrations and high rate of watering in hydroponic systems are more favorable to bacteria and, thus, allow them to play a critical role in the plant rhizosphere. Bacteria are the best candidates for use in hydroponic environments because they exhibit a vast diversity of physiological and physical characteristics that are most compatible with hydroponic environments. Bacterial metabolic versatility and evolutionary breadth is actually greater than that of all multicellular organisms on the planet! Bacterial strains can use vastly different compounds, ranging from requiring oxygen to generating it. Different bacteria species can effectively adapt and thrive in wide temperature, pH and nutrient ranges. All of these factors are impor tant for selecting the right microbes that will persist and function as desired in hydroponic and soilless systems. Using soil microbes in agriculture is now considered the next key innovation allowing farmers to naturally maximize crop quality, health and yield across many crops. Likewise, we are now able to use microbes with precision in hydroponics to attain similar results. Microbial solutions are the key element of the next green revolution that is enabling a more sustainable agricultural system. Applying microbes with specific physiological functions that promote effective nutrient use will increase plant growth, health and quality in hydroponic and soilless systems. 3

101

BY COSMIC KNOT

Talk To Your Plants H

ave you ever ventured out into nature and noticed the sounds coming from the forest? Whether it be the wind, water, animals or insects, there are so many musical notes that we can sometimes take for granted. A birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chirp or a cricketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s song is

an integral par t of the spring, summer and autumn months. While most would assume they are just mating calls, there may be much more to them than meets the ear.

102

SOUND ADVICE

It has long been said that the number of birds in a given area may correlate to the health of the local vegetation, including farmers crops. That being said, there are few who understand the potential in that statement; many hear the sounds of nature without giving it a second thought. It turns out there is evidence that certain frequencies may have a positive effect on plants, and this may help us unlock part of the equation for uninhibited growth in our gardens at home.

It turns out there is evidence that certain frequencies may have a positive effect on plants

In the evening during the warmer months, the crickets come out to sing their song. The morning brings the birds out of their nests to greet the rising sun. The frogs signal the coming spring, and the migratory birds signal that autumn is on its way. There have been studies that have shown how the sound of insects and frogs generally falls between 2,000 Hz to 15,000 Hz, with crickets generally falling below 10,000 Hz. You can even tell the temperature outdoors based on the hertz of the frogs or crickets, and birds are generally in the same frequency range as well. Through this understanding, researchers sought out the potential of sound manipulation for indoor gardens. Experiments were conducted on crops based on certain frequencies. One garden would be subjected to a certain pitch, while a control crop was exposed to regular conditions. The experiments seemed to show a dramatic increase in productivity towards the crops subjected to sound, especially in the average range of 5,000 Hz. The use of foliar sprays in conjunction with certain frequencies applied during the transition times of morning and evening were also shown to have a more beneficial effect on indoor crops as well. The potential link between plants and sound seems to bring about this question: can plants hear? Through studies, it has been found that it’s not that plants hear, so to speak, but they can possibly feel the vibrations from sounds. These vibrations may resonate with certain elements, allowing them to move more freely within the plant tissue. For example, when the crickets sing, their song has been shown to prepare plants for the coming evening by inducing them to open their stomata and collect the settling dew along with the micronized dust from the day. The birds in the morning are said to remind plants that a new day has begun, causing them to close up their pores and get ready for the sun. It seems that it’s all interconnected and this brings about more questions than answers. What else might we be overlooking in nature? For generations, natural farmers in certain regions of the world have sung to their fields while applying fertilizers made of compost teas and rock dust. Some farmers also play certain types of music to their gardens while applying nutrients. This

practice is based on the belief that music imprints their gardens and water with beneficial qualities that help plants grow. The inseverable cosmic link of everything in nature is something that has been disregarded by most modern agricultural practices. However, scientists are starting to see that there may be something to these age-old practices after all. Now that modern science is starting to catch up to what some would deem an esoteric gardening practice, we’re starting to see that there is more going on in Mother Nature than we understand and that there’s still so much to be discovered. Many home gardeners are starting to pick up on natural farming practices and are incorporating different sounds into their gardens to help them grow. If the natural order of things is left unhindered, results will likely follow. The only way to get our world back to a perfectly harmonious state is by understanding what makes it all work in the first place. By working with these natural energies, as opposed to against them, we can begin to build better farming practices. This means spending time in our natural surroundings and evaluating what makes it all come to life. Many people claim that simply walking through the forest puts them at ease and helps them think more clearly. The sounds of the forest very well may play a huge part in that relaxation effect. Even music tuned to the pitch of nature has shown to promote relaxing qualities on the listener. Based on these recent studies, it would seem a deeper look into the mysteries around us might hold the key to creating better gardens and maybe even a brighter future. It’s time to take a look into more “sound” gardening practices. 3 103

Pollinators

More bees, birds, and butterflies result in bigger blooms and better meals too! We have pollinators to thank for 1 out of 3 bites of

food we take every day; in fact, they affect about 35% of the world’s crop production. Unfortunately, our busy friends are

#FERTILZERFORTHEFUTURE

disappearing at a rapid rate. Industrial agriculture, pesticides, habitat destruction and climate change are just some of the reasons for why they’re in trouble.

Need Your Help! There’s a way you can help: more nectar and pollen sources are needed to improve their numbers. The Million Pollinator Garden Challenge is encouraging people all over the world to plant pollinator gardens and landscapes. Any size will do; from window and patio planters to backyard gardens and roadsides, no matter what your living situation, we can all play a role. Make your garden or balcony an inviting space by eliminating pesticide use and conserving water. Be sure to purchase only pollinator-friendly plants and seeds such as nasturtiums, monarda, and zinnias, but check that the variety you buy is native to your area.

Once your space is ready, register your garden with the National Pollinator Garden Network. The challenge aims to hit one million places for bees, birds, bats and butterflies to feel welcome. You can help them reach their goal! It’s not only for the survival of the pollinators; ours depends on it too.

millionpollinatorgardens.org/ sos-bees.org/causes/ www.fao.org

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The Art

Of Gardening

here’s no denying the link between ar t and gardening; flowers and other plant life have influenced ar tists for centuries. Canadian ar tist Monique Mar tin depends heavily on nature and other historically and socially significant symbols for inspiration. Displayed in 10 different countries, her

ar twork includes painting, sculpture, printmaking, installation, bookmaking and drawing. The Garden Culture team caught up with Martin at her “Timeless Tulips” exhibit, which was featured at this year’s edition of the celebrated Tulip Festival in Ottawa, Canada. After studying tulips in great detail, Martin was able to connect the way they naturally stand and move to human emotions and various life stages. Her beautiful close-up interpretations of tulips imitate actions of encouragement, being protective of others, and finally going separate ways. Feelings such as timidity, cautiousness, and confidence are also reproduced in the form of flowers. The cultural and historical significance of tulips do not go unappreciated by Martin; tulip bulbs were eaten during the Dutch Famine in the Netherlands towards the end of World War ll. On a much larger scale, Martin has created a floor-to-ceiling reproduction of a beehive to educate people on colony collapse disorder, a crisis in which a majority of worker bees disappear. The multi-sensory continuous is augmented for those walking through by the sound of buzzing bees and the

106

Feelings such as timidity, cautiousness, and conf idence are also reproduced in the form of f lowers. scent of beeswax. The installation was made using a linocut print method on 1,200 sq ft of mulberry paper. Martin is currently showing parts of a series that uses weeds to address the issues of racism and social exclusion. Called “Context is Everything”, the exhibit features prints of the Goat’s Beard weed, which Martin describes as beautiful, symmetrical, and delicate. She wonders if society had not decided it was a weed, would we cherish it? Social biases on things like race and religion also, unfortunately, influence who we accept as people. Using nature, history, and social issues for artistic inspiration. To learn more about Monique Martin’s work, visit moniqueart.com 3

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