Maximum Yield EU Nov/Dec 2013

inside great growing gear // VENUS FLYTRAPS // STRUCTURED WATER

Europe November - December 2013

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oxygenate respirate or suffOcate 2014 INDOOR GARDENING EXPO TOUR SEATTLE NOVI SAN FRAN BOSTON April 5-6

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MAY 31 - JUNE 1

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42

CONTENTS November/December 2013

FEATURES 24

28

By Frank Rauscher

28

36

By Lee McCall

48

60

Oxygenate, Respirate or Suffocate Making a Natural Plant Growth Regulator Cheaply

By Ryan M. Taylor

52

Ventilation Systems for Greenhouses and Indoor Gardens

By Eric Hopper

58

52

By Chad Garbet

Winterising Your Growroom

By Dr. Lynette Morgan

36 Venus Flytraps in Hydroponics

Structured Water, Agriculture & the Golden Ratio

By Mark Herbst

42

58

Cold Weather & Hydroponic Gardens

24

DEPARTMENTS 8

From the Editor

70

You Tell Us

10

MaximumYield.com

72

Talking Shop

12

Letters to the Editor

74

Do You Know

By Karen Wilkinson

14

Ask the Experts

75

Industry's Latest

Microbe Magic

16

Max Facts

76

Max-Mart

20

Product Spotlight

80

Distributors

69

Book Review

82

Coming Up Next Issue

Vermicompost: Micro-nutrient Rich Fertiliser from Worms

By Matt LeBannister

62 64

Root Rot and Blight

By Luis Bartolo

66

Have You Forgotton About Magnesium?

By Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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FROM THE EDITOR | Linda Jesson

Message from the

Editor Linda Jesson

The winter season is creeping in and with it brings some unique gardening challenges. So, in this issue we make sure you are prepared for the nastiest challenges. Frank Rauscher’s article, “Cold Weather & Hydroponic Gardens” has some great pointers on moving gardens from outdoors to indoors, and Lee McCall shares his tips on “Winterising Your Growroom” and reasons why your winter growroom should feature a water chiller. I know you’ll love this issue’s abundance of interesting growing tips, including how to grow Venus flytraps in hydroponic systems and how to avoid root rot and blight in the growroom.

Combined with our new products section—great for those thinking about early Christmas presents—and some tips, trivia and facts from the growing world, this issue will keep you occupied on the coldest November and December days.

Get ready for our 2014 Grow Like a Pro Expo Tour that we have planned coast to coast across the United States. With new venues and locations, 2014 will see us heading to Seattle, Washington (April 5 and 6); Novi, Michigan (May 31 and June 1); San Francisco, California (July 26 and 27); and Boston, Massachusetts (Oct. 18 and 19). Stay tuned to indoorgardenexpo.com for details so you can plan your 2014 vacation around these fabulous events.

Special holiday greetings to everyone from all of us here at Maximum Yield, with best wishes for prosperous growing in 2014!

contributors Karen Wilkinson is a budding

Chad Garbet considers plants the

Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr. has 50

Jose Luis Pinheiro Bartolo is the

Matt LeBannister developed a

Mark Herbst is an electrical engineer

Eric Hopper has more than 10 years

Frank Rauscher is a certified

Lee McCall is an alumnus of Johnson

Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B.

Ryan Taylor is the founder and

gardener with previous experience working in the hydroponics industry.

Her background includes daily reporting, technical writing, marketing and promotions. After spending years living along California’s northern coast, she made her way to Sacramento where she currently lives and breathes the yoga lifestyle. president of Biobizz Worldwide Inc., a global leader in the production of hydroponic organic fertilizers and soil mixtures. He is passionate about the organic market and providing the highest service and perfectionism that comes direct from his heart and is projected to all aspects of his life.

of experience in the hydroponic industry as both a retail store manager and owner. He continuously seeks new methods and products that could help maximise garden performance.

Eric resides in Michigan where he and his family strive for a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle.

Hort. Tech. degree and a PhD in hydroponic greenhouse production from Massey University, New Zealand. Lynette is a partner with SUNTEC International Hydroponic Consultants and has authored five hydroponic technical books. Visit suntec.co.nz for more information.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

most fascinating things on our planet.

Trying to get information about growing plants out to the general public is his goal. He works at Word of Mouth Hydroponics Inc. in Nanaimo, British Columbia where he passes his growing knowledge to customers.

Chad wants to see jungles inside our major cities and on every corner on every street.

green thumb as a child, having been born into a family of experienced gardeners. During his career, he has managed a hydroponic retail store and represented leading companies at the Indoor Gardening Expos. Matt has been writing articles for Maximum Yield since 2007. His articles are published around the world. horticulturist and consultant for the gardening industry. He’s a contributing author to several publications and was writer and editor of the Green Pages. Frank finds analysing plant stress and finding solutions exciting.

He is very much at home bringing new ideas to the field of horticulture and indoor gardening. president of the Taylor Horticulture Company. In addition to growing a wide variety of hydroponic and bioponic crops, he also specializes in the manufacturing of hybrid hydroponic systems and consults with horticulturalists on methods for optimizing their production processes.

Ryan is obsessed with hydroponics and his cat.

years of experience growing plants hydroponically. He is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Georgia, Athens and has authored eight books and written articles for magazines that deal with hydroponic issues.

He currently has his own consulting company, Grosystems, Inc. Dr. Jones lives in Anderson, SC, USA. and researcher of bioactive electric fields. He is the owner of Super Imploder UK. He writes from the heart with the intent to empower agriculture and the small-scale home grower.

Mark can be reached through his website at superimploder.co.uk

& Wales University. His extensive culinary background helped him gain experience in and knowledge of fine dining and food production, which developed into a career in the hydroponics and year-round gardening industry. Lee and his business partner use their Denver-based businesses to educate the public on sustainable gardening and high-quality produce.

Become a Maximum Yield contributor and have your articles read by 250,000 readers throughout the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Every issue is available on maximumyield.com, which has thousands of unique visitors monthly.

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COMING UP ON THE WEB November/December 2013

Announcing Our 2014 Indoor Gardening Expo Lineup Now that the final stop in our highly successful 2013 Grow Like a Pro Indoor Gardening Expo Tour has wrapped up in Long Beach, California, we’re pleased to announce next year’s expo dates.

We’ve got four exciting locations stretching from coast to coast in the United States: Seattle, Washington (April 5 and 6); Novi, Michigan (May 31 and June 1); San Francisco, California (July 26 and 27); and Boston, Massachusetts (Oct. 18 and 19). Stay tuned to indoorgardenexpo.com for details so you can plan your 2014 vacation.

We Want Your Feedback!

Help us continue to create an informative and exciting product for the indoor gardening industry for years to come, and earn a chance to win one of three $200 cash prizes to spend at your favourite indoor garden retail store by participating in the Maximum Yield Reader Satisfaction Survey. Visit maximumyield.com to fill out the survey. Thank you for helping us keep Maximum Yield the No. 1 indoor gardening magazine in the world!

Meet the Team

Throughout 2013 there have been a few changes at the Maximum Yield office, including the addition of some great people to the team. To learn more about our current roster, check out maximumyield.com/about-us

Author Archives

Has a particular Maximum Yield contributor caught your eye recently? Look them up using our online author archives.

Simply visit maximumyield.com/resources/author-archive

Maximum Yield is published bi-monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

The views expressed by columnists are a personal opinion and do not necessarily reflect those of Maximum Yield or the Editor.

Publication Agreement Number 40739092 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson editorial Editor Linda Jesson editor@maximumyield.com Assistant Editors Julie McManus - julie@maximumyield.com Jennifer McGarrigle - jenn@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES Sales Manager Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Account Executives Kelsey Hepples - kelsey@maximumyield.com Katie Montague - katie@maximumyield.com Jed Walker - jed@maximumyield.com Sarah Dale - sarah@maximumyield.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION ads@maximumyield.com Art Director Alice Joe Graphic Designers Jennifer Everts Dionne Hurd Jesslyn Gosling ACCOUNTING Tracy Greeno - accounting@maximumyield.com Katie LaFrance- ar@maximumyield.com

Ask an Expert

Maximum Yield’s resident experts are ready to answer your modern gardening questions. Email editor@maximumyield.com or fill out the Ask the Experts form on maximumyield.com

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Email editor@maximumyield.com. We’d love to hear from you.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

UK DISTRIBUTION Direct Garden Supplies Dutchpro Future Harvest Developments Europe Growth Technology Maxigrow Ltd. Nutriculture UK CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Quality Wholesale USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS General Hydroponics Humboldt Wholesale Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply R & M Supply Tradewinds AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Dome Garden Supply Futchatec Growth Technology Holland Forge House N Garden

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Eighth and Ninth I’m a Fan Winners Glendon Warner is the eighth winner of Maximum Yield’s I’m a Fan Contest! Glendon said, “Last week I was shopping at my local garden store and saw the free copy of this magazine.

I was blown away by all the information, articles and tips, not to mention a ton of manufacturer and product information I was never even aware of!

I have fallen in love with this perfect publication; I have read the past six issues already and can’t wait for the next issue!

This magazine is perfect for me and I’m so glad I saw the copy and took it home.”

A Green Thumbs Up

Ever wondered what it would be like if your garden were to outgrow everyone’s wildest expectations? I want to thank Maximum Yield for helping mine to flourish far beyond what I dreamed possible. Providing us with this free place to share research, ideas and products is invaluable. I started hanging out at local hydro shops, getting all the samples I could and working hard in the garden. Now I work at the local hydro store. Thanks again Maximum Yield and a big, green thumbs up to you all.

Ray Crowley, via email

Information on Industry Trends

Glendon Warner

Thank you for your great response, Glendon. We hope you enjoy your $100 gift certificate at your favourite indoor gardening shop, The Green Thumb.

Marko Portuondo is the ninth winner of Maximum Yield’s I’m a Fan Contest! Marko said, “I’m not going to get all technical on why I’m a fan of the magazine. You guys freakin’ rock! And because of that, my indoor garden rocks.

I’ve learned countless things from your articles, which has made me a pretty successful grower. You’ve got to love Maximum Yield, baby!”

Marko Portuondo

Thank you for the great response, Marko. We hope you enjoy your $100 gift certificate at your favourite indoor gardening shop, Liquid Sun Hydroponics.

Tell us why you’re a fan of Maximum Yield and you could be the next winner. Visit maximumyield.com for full contest details.

Hard Copy, Please

Hi there, I would really like a hard copy of your September/October issue, but can't locate one in my local area. Is it possible to have one posted to me?

Michelle, via email Editor’s Note: Thank you for your request, Michelle. I have emailed you a complimentary digital subscription for our UK edition, as well it can be viewed every month online at maximumyield.com. As our magazine is printed in the UK and sent to retail shops by our distributors, it is best to check in the back of one of the current editions for a retail shop near you that distributes Maximum Yield to pick up your hard copy. Enjoy this issue and stay tuned for the great editorial planned for future issues.

I am a fan of Maximum Yield because it gives information on innovative systems and the latest technology and breakthroughs.

I especially liked the article on stevia.

Thomas Stewart, Bishopbriggs, Scotland

A Great Read

I am 17 and have been interested in hydroponics for a few years now. I’m starting to get some equipment together, as I’m very interested in growing tropical plants. It seems like a great hobby, and the magazine is a great read with quite a few interesting articles, so that’s why I’m a fan.

Adam Robb, Morpeth, Northumberland, England

From Average to Super

After reading my first issue, I was blown away with all the information you provide us. Thank you for all the effort you put onto each issue, it is well worth it. This magazine is turning average growers into super farmers.

—George

Read Later?

Why can we not download copies of your magazine for later reading?

Kathy, via webform Editor’s Note: Good question, Kathy! Issues of Maximum Yield are available for download; readers will just need to create an account with the service that we use to showcase the magazine digitally. You can join issuu.com and be able to instantly download our publications and enjoy them without needing Internet access.

We want to hear from you!

Maximum Yield Publications Inc. Snail-mail: 2339 Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Email: editor@maximumyield.com Twitter: twitter.com/max_yield Facebook: facebook.com/MaximumYield

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

11

SIMON ASK THESAYS EXPERTS

I am starting to grow in an indoor closet, which is 76.20-cm wide by 1.83-m long by 1.52-m tall. I don’t know what type of reflector I should use. Do I need two for that length?

What do you think about a 152.40-cm cool tube? What ballast is best? I was looking at the 600-W dual bulb. Or, should I just do one 1,000-W? Please help me out!

Thanks, Karen Catalino

So your closet is 76.20-cm wide by 1.83-m long by 1.52-m tall. The good news is that I have grown in a similar closet; the bad news is that a 1.52-m ceiling doesn’t give you much vertical space. The best HID lighting for that space is either a pair of 600-W lights in a long glass tube, like you described, or a 1,000-W light on a mover. I personally prefer the 1,000-W on a mover, and I suggest you get a high-end mover that pauses at each end. This will give you more even growth and stronger plants. Heat is another issue, and the pair of 600-W lights in a cool tube might be the better option if high temperatures are a problem.

Digital ballasts are a great option, and they have continued to improve in recent years. For two 600-W lights, I prefer two ballasts over one dual ballast. A dual ballast doesn’t save any electricity; it is simply one enclosure with two ballasts inside. If one of the internal ballasts fails, you’ll have to shut down both lights for repair or replacement. If you go with that option, I recommend keeping a spare magnetic ballast for emergencies. If you get a 1,000-W light, you might want to start with a digital ballast and buy a spare magnetic when you can. Then you will be able to use a top-notch ballast with a low-cost back-up ballast in case of lighting failure.

Regarding retail stores and organic nutrients, you will need to do some legwork. There are tons of great stores in the United Kingdom, so start shopping around. Find a knowledgeable sales clerk who grows with organics. You can build a friendly relationship and exchange information each time you stop in. This type of interaction will give you access to expertise and troubleshooting, but you must 12

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

find a reliable source with a deep understanding of organic plant science. If he or she doesn’t know much about beneficial bacteria and fungi, you’ve got the wrong clerk.

One more thing: keep your plants short! With a 1.52-m ceiling your plants will need to finish at about 0.76 m or shorter. Start flowering them at about 20 cm, keeping night temperatures above 18.33°C and day temperatures below 26.67°C. Give them B vitamins and carbohydrates along with low-nitrogen base nutrients. These suggestions are key to growing short, stout plants with excellent quality.

Casey Jones Fraser

Casey Jones Fraser owns Garden Grove Organics in the United States. He has a degree in communications and electronic media.

He believes that indoor gardeners can achieve the highest quality crops and maximum yields when proper science is applied.

Since 1998, Casey has been testing various nutrients and supplements in search of outstanding harvests.

Casey Jones Fraser

MAX FACTS

growing tips, news and trivia

Mixed Weather Means Apples and Pumpkins Plentiful A wet spring and a hot summer have brought Britain the best harvest season for years. At Great Posbrook Farm near Southampton, around half a million pumpkins are expected to be harvested and shipped to supermarkets across the country. And at Stocks Farm in Suckley, Worcestershire, the good weather and summer heat has upped the sugar levels in the fruit and Richard Capper expects to haul in almost 2,000 tonnes of the fruit from his orchards.

(Source: dailymail.co.uk)

MAXFACTS

growing tips, news and trivia Hallowed Hops East Kent Goldings will be the toast of the county after becoming the first variety of hops to have their name legally protected against imitation. The oldest known variety of hop grown in the United Kingdom has been awarded Protected Designation of Origin status by the European Commission in recognition of its quality, history and links to the local area. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is encouraging producers to apply for protected status for their products to take advantage of the wider markets in the United Kingdom and abroad arising from consumers’ increasing awareness of where their food and drink comes from.

(Source: gov.uk)

Red Lime Trees Available An exotic species of lime is being grown in the United Kingdom for the first time­—and it’s bright red. The striking fruit, dubbed the red lime, is the same size and shape as the usual green variety, but it combines orange and sour lime flavours. The unusual crop, which is native to India, is known by a variety of names across the world, including a rangpur, lemandarin, canton lemon, sylhet lime and limao cravo. It is believed to have been made by crossing a lemon with a mandarin plant. The trees can be grown in a sheltered pot on a patio area or in a tub inside a conservatory.

(Source: dailymail.co.uk) 14

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

The Power of Prunes The health benefits of eating prunes aren’t just limited to regularity. New research published in the British Medical Journal highlights that eating more prunes could help reduce the risks of getting type 2 diabetes by 18%. Researchers found that replacing three servings per week of fruit juice with certain individual whole fruits reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes by 7%, with some fruits, such as prunes, scoring much higher on the scale.

(Source: foodbev.com)

Introducing the TomTato It sounds like something from a science fiction film, but a plant that produces both potatoes and tomatoes has been launched in the United Kingdom. The “TomTato” can grow more than 500 sweet cherry tomatoes above ground, while beneath the soil it produces white potatoes that are suitable for boiling, roasting or turning into chips. Horticultural mailorder company Thompson & Morgan, which is selling the plants for £14.99 each, described their new product as a “veg plot in a pot.” The hybrid plants are not a product of genetic engineering, but are each individually hand-grafted. Like potatoes, tomatoes are members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which makes them compatible for grafting.

(Source: telegraph.co.uk)

Europeans Want Organic Rules Tightened More than half of Europeans responding to a recent survey want stricter rules for produce labelled organic. In a massive survey on organic production recently conducted by the European Commission, 60% of Europeans are demanding more controls and tests on these products to ensure that they do not contain illegal residues, even if this entails an increase in prices. Spain is among the countries demanding this more firmly.

(Source: Hoyagro.es)

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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MAX FACTS

growing tips, news and trivia

London Roof Gardens Flourish

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Forever Flowering Greenhouses is proud to offer: Breathable Wall.

A breath of fresh air.

Rigid breathable blackout material you can build with.

Get full air flow when your light dep tarps are covering your greenhouse.

For indoor and greenhouse ventilating needs.

Herb-based plant super food.

Inoculated with beneficial bacteria and endomycorrhizae.

With kelp, humates, micro nutrients, and sugars.

DEM is a complete superfood for your plants and microbes.

foreverflowering.net 888.784.4687 16

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

High above London’s teeming streets, once unloved concrete spaces are being transformed into bountiful fruit, vegetable and wildflower gardens. At the Strand headquarters of Coutts, the Skyline Garden yields a breathtaking variety of the freshest vegetables, herbs and fruit for the bank’s busy kitchens, while a short distance across the rooftops, staff at the international law firm Olswang tend the edible roof garden on their lunch breaks and enjoy eating the fruits of their work. Inmidtown, the Business Improvement District for Bloomsbury, Holborn and St. Giles, is encouraging this blooming biodiversity on Midtown rooftops.

“Of our 570 member businesses, probably half could be greened,” explains business manager Mitch Steprans.

(Source: telegraph.co.uk)

Volatile Potato Prices Ahead Supply chains will have to be rebalanced to combat volatile prices in the European potato market, a report has warned. The latest research from Rabobank predicts potato prices will rise gradually and be more volatile over the next five years in reaction to unstable supply in northwest Europe. Potato supply chain operators should re-balance their risks and returns by either adjusting control over the overall supply chain or by reconsidering their business model to insulate against price and supply issues, the report states. The yield of crops, which is highly dependent on weather and disease, is the biggest factor in determining price. But demand for potatoes produced in northwest Europe, and their market value, is expected to increase in the next five years as consumers shift towards higher-value products such as premium crisps.

(Source: supplymanagement.com)

Motherly Beetles Hidden in the thick foliage of tropical forests, a subfamily of colourful beetles hides the secrets of the earliest stages of social behavior, showing explicit signs of maternal instincts and care. An international team of scientists recently analysed social behaviours present in the Chrysomelinae beetle subfamily and discovered evidence of maternal instincts present within eight species. Scientists documented everything from mothers modifying leaf resources in advance of bearing live offspring to actively defending offspring.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

German Vegetable Companies Decreasing The number of vegetable companies in Germany has continually decreased in recent years, states topagrar.com. According to the German Bureau of Statistics, there were only 7,220 vegetable companies with the obligation to report in 2012, compared with 14,500 in 2000. About 30% of the decrease is the result of structural changes in agriculture, the website notes. Looking at the separate regions, the decrease can be seen everywhere and the most dramatic decline was Hamburg at a 40% reduction in the number of vegetable companies.

(Source: freshplaza.com) Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

YOUR GUIDE TO THIS ISSUE’S

HOTTEST ITEMS Ask for them at your local indoor gardening store.

Go Box from General Organics

General Organics is a clean VganicTM out-of-the-box solution. Each Go Box includes sample-sized portions of the most popular General Organics products, each representing the company’s deep commitment to sustainability, quality, simplicity and innovation. Included are 473.17-ml bottles of BioThrive Grow and BioThrive Bloom and 236.58-ml bottles of CaMg+, Bio Root, Bio Weed, Bio Bud, Bio Marine and Diamond Black. General Organics’ line of organic fertilisers and supplements are formulated to enhance the biology in the root zone and are suitable for all kinds of soil and media culture. Plants will fulfill their genetic potential with rapid growth, high yields, outstanding flavour, fragrance and nutrition. For more information, visit a local indoor gardening store.

OxyClone 20-Site Cloner

Dutchpro’s pH Bloom

Sunlight Supply is pleased to announce the release of the OxyClone 20-Site Cloner. The OxyClone 20-Site Cloner works on the principle of re-circulating oxygenated water created by the OxyHead and can be used with Eco Air 1 for super oxygenated water. The OxyHead draws in oxygen from the atmosphere and produces turbulence to continuously nourish your cuttings. There are no spray jets that clog up and the water stays cool. Kit includes two sets of neoprene oxycerts (20 coloured and 20 black), one OxyHead, one moulded cover and one impact-resistant reservoir. It’s made of black lightproof materials and comes with a 90-day warranty. For more information, visit a local indoor gardening store.

Use Dutchpro’s pH Bloom to adjust the pH value in your garden during the bloom stage. This product contains 30% phosphorus acid, so caution must be used while handling and storing. To use, add small amounts of pH Bloom during the blooming stages until the desired level is reached. Keep in mind that the recommended pH level for most plants during the bloom stage 5.8. Dutchpro’s pH Bloom is available in 1, 5, 10 and 20-L sizes. For more information, visit a local indoor gardening retail store.

Head Masta from CX Hydroponics Many growers obtain high quality at the expense of high yields, or vice versa. Head Masta ensures both a heavy-yielding and high-quality crop. In addition to stimulating an internal hormonal signal that increases flower formation and creating additional flowering sites, Head Masta pumps plant cells full of extra vitamins and minerals required by the plant to convert excess light and nutrients into the highest quality proteins, amino acids and carbohydrates. Head Masta also adds weight-producing silicon to flower cells and increases its thirst for potassium. All CX Hydroponics additives, including Head Masta, are formulated to work well in any medium and with any nutrient line. All CX Hydroponics products are designed for use with consumable crops and are PGR/hormone free. Stop by a local gardening store for more details.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Green Power Hobby Green Power has become a favourite with UK growers looking for maximum growroom protection thanks to their high-quality, reliable and easy-to-use contactors. Now this popular brand is extending their range to meet the needs of new and novice growers. The Green Power Hobby is manufactured using high-quality components and safeguards growrooms from disasters caused by electrical surges. Available in two- and three-socket versions, the Green Power Hobby can be connected to any timer, offering maximum flexibility for the grower. For more information on the Green Power Hobby, visit a local grow store.

Atami Presents the Dynamic Duo Bloombastic is now bundled with 50 ml of Rootbastic. The Dynamic Duo provides a stimulant for your roots and your flowers in one package. Bloombastic is a high-quality cocktail of bio-minerals and bio-stimulators suitable for the last flowering and ripening phase (four to six weeks). Bloombastic increases the sugar content of your crop and therefore the weight and the smell. Rootbastic is a highly concentrated supplement and additive that should be used in the beginning of the rooting phase during the first three weeks of the growth of the plant. It increases the EC level based on your nutrient solution. Rootbastic ensures a proper development of the root system of the plant. Ask an indoor garden retailer for more information on these Dynamic Duos.

Super Sun DE Reflector Sunlight Supply is pleased to announce the arrival of the Super Sun Double-Ended (DE) Reflector—the latest addition to the Sun System® line of reflectors and made specifically for double-ended 1,000-W HPS horticulture lamps (not included). Unique double-ended construction allows for maximum optical efficiency and uniformity. Full spectrum DE lamps used in this fixture focus on the red component for increased photosynthetic response. They offer improved PAR values and increased PAR/lumen maintenance (up to 90% PAR at 10,000 hours of operation).

The Super Sun DE’s compact design delivers maximum light to growing spaces using 95% reflective, textured German aluminum interior for excellent uniformity, output and diffusion. Product features galvanised steel housing with durable powder-coated finish. The Super Sun DE is manufactured with the finest quality components and includes a detachable 4.5-m lamp cord at the reflector and at the ballast. Visit a local retailer for more information.

SuperCloset LED Trinity 3.0 Hydroponic Grow Box SuperCloset’s LED Trinity 3.0 grow box is 1.83-m tall, 1.83-m wide and 0.61-m deep. It features three independent lighting systems to allow indoor gardeners the ability to move plants, based on their age and height, through different grow environments. The LED lights used in the system are proprietary 8 bandwidth spectrum LEDs that run on 700 mA. The LED Trinity 3.0 is a much more sustainable product than the traditional HID Trinity 3.0 and has garnered many accolades even in its short release. To learn more, ask about the LED Trinity at a local retailer.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT SuperCloset’s LED SuperNova Hydroponic Grow Box SuperCloset has added a new LED hydroponic grow box, the LED SuperNova, to its suite of hydroponic systems and its grow cabinet product line. The LED SuperNova is among the largest grow boxes on the market today standing at 2-m high by 1.07-m wide by 0.61-m deep. The LED SuperNova grow box utilizes a proprietary spectrum to flower large yields in tight spaces. Heat is dissipated efficiently amongst the 2-cm aluminum circuit boards that are the backbone of the SuperNova LED lighting system. The benefits of the new LED SuperNova are immense; it uses about half of the electricity as a 600-W HID light while producing similar luminous efficiency. For more information, visit a local retailer.

SuperCloset BubbleFlow Buckets

GHE’s BioBud

SuperCloset’s BubbleFlow Buckets and BubbleFlow Bucket Rings combine deep water culture and bottom flow hydroponic methodologies to promote even nutrient circulation and eliminate uneven pH and nutrient pockets. The size of the BubbleFlow Buckets encourages greater root expansion and ultimately increases overall yield per plant. The adjustable connections on the buckets allow for various configurations that can suit any grow space. Because of the custom-designed drain valve and tube configuration, BubbleFlow Buckets drain and fill incredibly easy. Overall maintenance on BubbleFlow Buckets is minimal and the system can be stacked and moved easily and efficiently. The BubbleFlow Buckets 6 is sold as six BubbleFlow Buckets, a control reservoir, a 185-gph pump, and all fittings, connections, tubings and air stones.

Visit an indoor garden retail store for more details.

BioBud from General Hydroponics Europe is a powerful bloom stimulator that generates explosive flowering and massive fruit production. BioBud increases metabolic activity and mineral uptake by using bio-stimulants and organic transport enhancers.

It’s easy to use on all types of plants during flowering phases. Use BioBud with all nutrients, in hydroponics, in any substrate and in your garden. Application is as follows: Use 3 to 5 ml per litre in hydro and soil, or 3 ml per litre in a foliar spray.

Be sure to also check out GHE’s Bio Bloom.

For more information, ask for either or both at your local indoor gardening retail store.

Dutchpro’s pH Grow Dutchpro’s pH Grow is used in all types of gardening applications to adjust pH levels during the growth stage. To use, add small amounts of pH Grow until the desired level of pH is reached in your grow space. Keep in mind that the recommended pH level for most plants during the growth stage is 5.8. Dutchpro’s pH Grow contains 38% nitric acid, so caution must be used whenever handling. pH Grow is available in 1, 5, 10 and 20-L sizes. For more information, visit a local indoor gardening retail store.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Dutchpro’s pH+ Use Dutchpro’s pH+ to raise the pH value in your garden! This product is made from potassium-hydroxide solution, so caution must be used while handling and storing. To use, add small amounts of pH+ until the desired level is reached. Keep in mind that the recommended pH level for most plants is between 5.8 and 6.5. Dutchpro’s pH+ is available in 1, 5, 10 and 20-L sizes. For more information, visit a local indoor gardening retail store.

Sun System Agrotech Medium Reflector The Sun System Agrotech Medium Reflector is Sunlight Supply’s latest addition to the Sun System®reflector line. This lightweight reflector is all aluminum with a galvanised steel back plate for a durable but easy-to-use product. The Agrotech Medium Reflector features 95% reflective German aluminum for excellent reflectivity and diffusion. The Sun System lamp cord is compatible with Sun System, Galaxy® and other ballasts and is fully detachable from both the ballast and the reflector for ease of use. The fully enclosed socket assembly protects wiring from heat and UV light and easily attaches with four small bolts.

Visit an indoor gardening store for more information.

Regen-A-Root from CX Hydroponics Grow monster roots with Regen-A-Root. RegenA-Root stimulates monster root growth while boosting the naturally occurring immune defences of plant root systems. Instead of containing rooting hormones, Regen-A-Root contains the required precursors for naturally occurring plant auxins. This approach guarantees phenomenal root development without sacrificing top growth, making it safe to use throughout both vegetative and flowering stages. A lush, healthy, productive root system every time is CX Hydroponics’ guarantee to you. All CX Hydroponics additives, including Regen-A-Root, are formulated to work with any nutrient line. For more information, check out a local grow store.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

23

COLD WEATHER

& HYDROPONIC

GARDENS

by Frank Rauscher

Cold weather is a situation where hydroponic gardening, whether in your home or in a greenhouse, has an unbeatable advantage. Here’s how to make the most of it.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Although hydroponic growing is done in many different media, each medium offers superior control over the environment. So, whether you’re growing in a greenhouse or in your own home, the ability to insulate your crop from the cold outside means a winter crop is a real option.

If you plan to take advantage of winter gardening using a greenhouse or a growroom not attached to the home heating system, then first look into all the alternatives for maintaining temperature economically. You’ll need to know the growing characteristics of the crop(s) you intend to grow and see that

“ If you plan to take advantage of winter gardening using a greenhouse or a growroom not attached to the home heating system, then first look into all the alternatives for maintaining temperature economically.” your greenhouse can accomplish this. In the United Kingdom in particular, the winter months can bring with them frequent and sustained grey skies. In a greenhouse this means the need for supplemental electric lighting. The type of lighting that you’ll need for your plants will vary greatly, but these options are all easy to find. Also, since a greenhouse is separated from the home heating system, you’ll require a source of heat. Good pre-planning can make this issue affordable—good insulating glass or Plexiglas can help keep the cost of heat down. Also, newer greenhouse designs include solar heating, which can result in significant energy savings. However, you’ll need to provide an alternative source of heat to solar-heated greenhouses during cloudy periods.

If you have an indoor garden that can take advantage of the warmth of your home (and you have no problem providing adequate electric light), you are all set to grow year-round. Know your crop and the light or radiation requirements for it as many crops require different types of light based on the phase of growth. Do some research on the plants you plan to grow ahead of time.

Moving indoors

Since synthetic light is not free, many hydroponic gardeners would like to take advantage of sunlight when they can. However, winter can often force them to move their crop indoors (for example, when cold weather comes along before your outdoor tomatoes are finished ripening). This is not a problem if you were prepared for it from the beginning.

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cold weather & hydroponic gardens One of the easiest types of hydroponic systems to relocate indoors would be a soil-based system. A raised bed is really not going to be movable, and transplanting is way too risky. However, a modular system with individual pots that you can easily disconnect to move them one at a time is good. Also, be sure to plan your growing area indoors for this relocation before you get going—you don’t want to discover that things aren’t going to fit at the time you need to take advantage of your indoor area. You’ll need to grow in individual pots that, when filled, don’t exceed 22.68 kg or so. When moving individual potted plants with sturdy saucers, you can easily use a simple luggage dolly to move them and spare your back.

“Avoid moving plants to an outdoor setting when temperatures are too high or the risk of a cold snap still exists.”

Though hand watering is much more time-consuming, it does lend itself most easily to being relocated. However, if your garden design incorporates automated watering, you might want it to have the ability to easily disconnect and reconnect. That is, the water tank, pump, timer, tubing and drips need to connect and disconnect quickly and easily. If building your own, take this into consideration from the start. This type of system is also available turnkey if you search for them, and even these pre-assembled systems are not expensive.

There are a few other issues to consider regarding your outdoor plants. First, your outdoor crop is likely to have some pests and traces of disease that you can’t even see. As such, do not combine these outdoor plants with others that have been indoors all along. I strongly recommend that you put these plants into their own indoor tent or separate room, and that you use precautions after tending these plants before tending to others that may have been isolated from these risks up to this point (the expense of a tent will quickly be recovered when you consider the expense of a crop loss from disease or insects). Also, following good cleanliness and isolation protocol for an indoor crop is your best bet. Daily or frequent inspections will also give you a big advantage. Be sure to pick off leaves that show signs of mildew early; often this can be enough to control the disease.

“your outdoor crop is likely to have some pests and traces of disease that you can’t even see.”

Also, the number of hours that the plants were receiving sunlight outdoors should be duplicated when moving indoors. Certain plants change their growth habits as the hours of sunlight or grow light are changed. Know the crop you are growing and whether your indoor timer needs adjusting. Also, try to initially use an indoor lamp with a broad spectrum of light and avoid making too many environmental changes at one time.

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“ Caterpillars are usually the no. 1 enemy of a veggie garden.”

Moving outdoors

If you are thinking about moving plants from a controlled indoor light radiation environment to outdoor sun radiation, there are many different concerns that need to be addressed. This option is not an easy one and might not be worth the effort, but I want to discuss it just in case. First, you need to consider the ambient outdoor direct sunlight and temperature. Avoid moving plants to an outdoor setting when temperatures are too high or the risk of a cold snap still exists. And because solar radiation can be so much stronger than controlled indoor lighting, it’s a good idea to use shade cloth (at least as a transition). The percentage of sunlight that the shade cloth allows is a vital consideration if you plan to do this. Plants can adapt to this higher radiation, but usually do much better if making this adaptation at a gradual rate; hardening the plants off over a period of several weeks can reduce the stress of this change. Also, higher temperatures and wind will create a demand for greater transpiration of water from the roots to the foliage and fruit. This means extra demand on the root system and more water.

After being moved outdoors, your crop will be introduced to pests that it has not seen or dealt with before. You will need to be on guard and ready to help if and when this battle begins. Caterpillars are usually the No. 1 enemy of a veggie garden. Don’t wait until you find that caterpillars have eaten up half or more of your precious crop; Bacillus thurengienses (BT) and spinosad are great examples of safe, organic pesticides that can help.

Final thoughts

So, although moving plants has its disadvantages and dangers, it is worth it. You can easily maximise your harvest by utilising hydroponics, whether your crop is grown completely indoors or moved indoors as the weather demands.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

27

Structured

Water,

&

the

golden

ratio

by Mark Herbst

Structured water is a relatively new term referring to the many different geometric shapes and ratios that can be present in water. Mark Herbst, an electrical engineer, provides a closer look at what this means for the agricultural industry and why the concept isn’t as new as it appears.

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Water (H2O) is perhaps one of the least understood substances on the planet.

It has been around since our conception, and plays a fundamental role in life, yet most of us take it for granted. No one can explain exactly why water expands when it freezes, or why it can exist as a solid, liquid and gas. Other anomalies exist in water when compared with other liquids, and in ice when compared to other solids. For example, water freezes faster when it is hot than when it is cold.

“ No one can explain exactly why water expands when it freezes, or why it can exist as a solid, liquid and gas.”

Freezing and boiling points vary according to pressure, and different forms of water exist depending on which of the three hydrogen isotopes are bonded to oxygen. In addition, the scientific community is abuzz at the moment with Dr. Gerald Pollack’s discovery of exclusion zone water (H3O2) in the human body.

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structured water, agriculture & the golden ratio

One anomaly of incredible interest is water’s ability to hold memory (i.e., store information and be programmed). In recent years, the documentary Water: the Great Mystery has caused quite a stir by presenting credible research from the scientific community regarding this phenomenon. Water achieves this by altering its molecular structure, and the size and shape of the clusters that the molecules form, by changing bond angles between molecules. Thus, many different geometries, ratios and shapes can be present in water. Here we introduce a new term: structured water.

Plato attributed certain properties to the five platonic solids, in particular water, to the icosahedron (see Fig. 2). He held the platonic solids to be the building blocks of the universe. He did not view them as separate, but rather as nesting one inside the other. In the 1960s, Russian researchers looking for a pattern on the earth’s surface that would link significant places in history, found a matrix. Along the lines of this matrix were ancient civilizations and magnetic anomalies. The pattern they found had 12 pentagonal faces (the dodecahedron). What were the ancient cultures aware of to have built civilizations on the nodes and lines of a dodecahedron? Beth Hagens and William Becker mapped all five platonic solids onto earth’s

“ Russian researchers looking for a pattern on the earth’s surface that would link significant places in history, found a matrix.” spherical grid. This helped explain the existence of highly accurate, ancient maps. They also discovered that megalithic sites like Easter Island and Glastonbury Tor are located on the nodes and lines of this grid. Becker Fig. 1 - Effects of human interaction with water. Photo courtesy of Dr. Emoto. and Hagens concluded that the ancients new about this grid. The list of correspondences to the platonic solids in our Structured water refers to water that has undergone a universe is endless. For example, the haemoglobin in human process to imprint or impart a specific shape to the clusters blood assumes the shape of an octahedron, formed with two of water molecules. This can be done intentionally or uninpyramids, as does chlorophyll and the gold atom. Modern scitentionally, as the structure of water can change according ence has also discovered that human DNA assumes the shape of to its environment. Dr. Masaru Emoto demonstrated this by a ratchet spiral of dodecahedrons. exposing water to different sounds, words and environments, freezing it in a cryogenic chamber, then taking magnified photographs (see Fig. 1). Research has demonstrated that the structure of water may be equally as important as its content in promoting life, growth and health. It would seem logical then that certain geometries or structures in water are more beneficial to life than others. Many growers will have tales to share about their

“ Research has demonstrated that the structure of water may be equally as important as its content in promoting life, growth and health.” plant’s response to different types of music, attention and indeed conversation. Could the memory phenomenon of water provide us with a clue as to why?

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Fig. 2 - The Platonic Solids and their properties.

AD

structured water, agriculture & the golden ratio From professor Martin Chaplin’s research on water at London University, it is clear that water may form icosahedral structures, as well as other platonic solids, linking modern science with Plato’s ancient philosophy. Fig. 3 shows the proposed icosahedral (20 triangular faces) structure of a cluster of water molecules. Was Plato trying to show us the universe and its magnetic and energetic fields are built in certain ordered shapes and structures that promote life, health and plant growth?

Fig. 3 - Professor Chaplin shows where he found the golden ratio in water (left) and the proposed icosahedral structure of a water cluster (right).

Photo courtesy of professor Martin Chaplin.

In relation to structured water, another important aspect is Phi ( ), or the golden ratio of 1.618. This ratio is found in plants, the human body and our solar system.

Many might be familiar with Leonardo da Vinci’s cannon, the drawing of a male human with limbs outstretched, inscribed in a circle. This cannon is based on the golden

Some even believe placing seeds under a pyramid, built in the Phi-ratio, and of the right materials, will improve seed germination rates and percentages. A home-experiment or growth trial is easy to implement with a wooden or copper pyramid (see Fig. 4). One of the reasons this happens is because structures built in golden mean ratio, and from the correct materials, concentrate negative charge. Professor Korotkov from Russia uses an instrument called a gas discharge visualisation machine to measure this phenomenon, the accuracy and validity of this machine having been verified with thousands of medical trials. Aside from that, many studies have shown negative ionization to be of benefit to animal, human and plant life—especially when applied to water.

Structured water can store more negative ions. In water, this is measured in redox potential—the unit being millivolts. When the redox potential increases this indicates the presence of less negative ions in solution.

“ many studies have shown negative ionization to be of benefit to animal, human and plant life—especially when applied to water.”

“It would seem that ancient civilizations new about the golden ratio as they did the platonic solids, and that the two are inseparable.” ratio of 1.618 or 0.618. The orbital radius of Mars and Earth produce the golden mean as well. We find this precise golden mean ratio in the pyramids in Egypt, and the architecture of other civilizations and indigenous tribes.

It would seem that ancient civilizations new about the golden ratio as they did the platonic solids, and that the two are inseparable. Wherever this ratio is present, we find some sort of life and vice versa. The number of scientists supporting the argument for the platonic solids and the golden ratio as a blueprint for creation is increasing.

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Fig. 4 - Finding the Phi ratio in a pyramid.

Fig. 5 - Two and three dimensional spiral geometry. Photo courtesy of Dan Winter.

The surface of the earth is negatively charged. Growers can take advantage of this to transfer negative charge to plants and water. Simply driving a copper rod into the ground and running a copper wire from the spike to a water reservoir or plant pot has produced notable effects on vitality and vigour.

“ The fact that exclusion zone water, recently discovered in the human body, is negatively charged further reinforces the importance of negative charge and its life-giving properties.”

The fact that exclusion zone water, recently discovered in the human body, is negatively charged further reinforces the importance of negative charge and its life-giving properties.

Why does the golden ratio promote the presence of negative charge? When we draw a graph of a set or progression of golden mean numbers, the picture provides a clue. The graph in Fig. 5 forms a spiral. If we look at the graph in three dimensions, it would look similar to the Romanesco broccoli (Fig. 5), or a pine cone. If we view the same spiral in water, hydro-dynamically, it can be seen as a spiralling vortex imploding or collapsing toward the centre, similarly to water draining out of a bathtub.

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33

structured water, agriculture & the golden ratio demonstrating this phenomenon. When any field behaves this way it is said to be fractal. An analogy would be to visualise a picture that one could zoom into forever.

The lines in the picture would have to combine perfectly together in the centre of the picture without destroying one another. This can only happen when golden mean ratio is present. It is this vortex of implosion, leading to constructive compression, which will draw negative ions into a system, and concentrate them.

Researcher Dan Winter has helped modern science understand this and has modified Max Fig 6 - Planck Length accurately multiplied by Golden Ratio predicts bioactive frequencies.

Planck's equation that predicts frequency and length in matter. His new equation, which includes golden Implosion causes a centripetal force, which in water refers mean ratio, accurately predicts three radii of hydrogen and to the suction process that causes fluids to move inwards and the flowering and vegetative wavelengths of light. This demtowards the centre in a swirling vortex. Imploding water and onstrates the very nature of a hydrogen atom and photosynother magnetic and electrical fields in the golden ratio leads thesis is golden mean or fractal! to a phenomenon in physics called phase conjugation. Phase Of course, negative ions or charge can be introduced conjugation is a wave phenomenon whereby certain condiinto water in different ways, but there are other factors to tions, geometries and magnetic arrangements cause electriconsider when examining structured water as a function of cal and magnetic waves to strengthen each other as they improving a grower or farmer’s bottom line. One being the come together by adding and multiplying wave length and molecular cluster size and whether it has been decreased, creating wetter water, thus enabling better hydration and “Imploding water and other greater solubility. Other factors to examine or test for when selecting a water structuring device are effects on total dismagnetic and electrical fields in the solved solids, pH, EC, surface tension and viscosity, dissolved golden ratio leads to a phenomenon oxygen, combined chlorine content, dissolved metals and metalloids (including heavy metals). Magnetic water treatin physics called phase conjugation.” ment has been around for some time, and has performed well in agriculture as a means of structuring water. When using magnets, one needs to know the strength of the magvelocity, combining them in an infinitely small point. In physnets, and how long they will last. Homeopathic structuring of ics this is referred to as infinite non-destructive compression water has also performed well and warrants further investigaor constructive collapse. So, as the waves join together and tion, as it is cheap to implement. Those familiar with biodyapproach the bottom of the vortex, they accelerate through namic farming would probably have made use of vortexing the speed of light. All the energy waves are combined without or homeopathic preparations as a means of structuring water. cancelling one another out. An example of waves cancelling There are not many products on the market that structure one another out (not completely as the incoming wave is usuwater with electrical signals, but are in the R&D stage. New ally larger) is when an ocean wave hits the beach and rushes products in the structured water arena are emerging as the back out, only to collide with another incoming wave. science gains more interest and more research is completed.

Mathematically we can show constructive collapse by Access to validated test results and growth trials are of utmost adding 1 to 1.618 and then multiplying 1.618 by 1.618 importance when selecting a device. to get the same answer of 2.618. This is the only ratio 34

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Fig 7 - Creating implosion and phase conjugation with electrical sine waves. Photo courtesy of Dan Winter.

Putting things into perspective, water is incredibly sensitive to external stimuli. Its molecular structure can be altered piezoelectrically (using crystals), chemically, mechanically, electrically, acoustically and magnetically—including via human interaction to be made more beneficial to industry, agriculture and human health. The emergence of water structuring devices on the market has allowed farmers to increase yield, improve appearance of produce, harvest earlier, increase nutrient content and decrease salt build-up in growing media.

The use or incorporation of the golden ratio in water structuring technology enhances structured water. Small-scale growers and farmers have begun to, and will increasingly begin to consider biological architecture (greenhouses built in golden mean ratio) and structured water, as a means of improving agricultural and horticultural practice. The discourse is intended to provide the grower with a solid platform from which to experiment, and make a more informed choice in a paradoxically ancient, yet new field of technology.

“The use or incorporation of the golden ratio in water structuring technology enhances structured water.”

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

35

Winterising your GrowRoom

By Lee McCALL

Why your winter growroom should feature a water chiller and other suggestions for maximising the space 36

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

As summer winds down and we head into harvest time, indoor gardeners become busy preparing our growrooms for winter—otherwise known as our prime indoor growing season. Now is the time to add more lights and expand our growing space. Those unfortunate growers who have suffered from excessive heat all summer long are only able to turn lights back on now after they’ve been off all summer— heat from the summer sun has now diminished and no longer will excessive hot spells decimate our growrooms.

Cooler weather allows for enhanced environmental control. In residential growrooms, adding heat is a lot easier than trying to subtract it, especially during those peak summer heat waves that make it nearly impossible to generate a successful crop without the aid of tons of air conditioning. By the time you’ve put in your second year indoors, though, you should have learned a few lessons. Obviously the fluctuation in temperature from winter to spring to summer can throw off many first-time growers who may have pulled a beginner’s luck crop

heat from the summer sun has

now diminished and no longer will excessive hot spells decimate our growrooms.”

off earlier that winter season. Having learned the hard way, we now know to either prep the room with the appropriate amount of A/C or run fewer lights during the summer months. Although LEDs are becoming more popular as a viable indoor grow light option, the rumour is that you shouldn’t expect the same weight-towatt ratio. Instead, their benefit lies in the energy savings these efficient grow lights offer as the trade-off for a possible—but not guaranteed—small loss in yield.

Prior to entering the ideal indoor growing season, one lesson I’ve learned has been to generate a healthy vegetative crop while it’s still warmer outside in preparation for the approaching cold weather. T5s, LEDs and lower-wattage, metal-halide lights are an excellent source of vegetative spectrum light with lower heat and energy output compared to 1,000-watt systems, and many growers are making the switch in their growrooms. Kick off the beginning of the colder season with a healthy veg crop just waiting to transition over into its flowering cycle, because time is valuable and you should make the most of the indoor season. The goal is to achieve more successful flowering cycles during this time since it’s much easier to control environmental problems; in other words, there is less heat and there are fewer bugs during winter. As opposed to trying to band-aid a lost-cause flowering crop suffering from mite damage and heat stress, build the health and vigour of a healthy veg room up a month or so prior to the cold season, so that when the cooler season has arrived you have an immaculate, stressfree crop of stock plants, mature vegetatives and cuttings ready to go all season long.

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37

winterising your growroom Non-air-cooled horticultural lighting reflectors are ideal in the winter growroom so long as the emitted heat does not affect room comfort. In places like the foothills and deep into the mountains, where long periods of near- or belowfreezing temperatures are more common, growers may be inclined to use these types of hoods. One major benefit is a stronger penetration of light to the crop due to the fact that no loss is experienced from glass lenses or duct ports on the reflectors. Actual surface area of plant production may increase and the crop may receive higher radiant levels of useable light when these reflectors are employed, as compared to air-cooled alternatives. If non-air-cooled reflectors are not an option, use only what is needed to keep air-cooled lights cool to the touch. In colder regions, growrooms operating on a p.m. to a.m. schedule will have the least amount of radiant heat hindering production. Because the room will operate and function its on cycle during the coolest parts of the day, there will obviously be less ambient heat at night to combat in conjunction with growroom appliances—such as lights, CO2 generators and so on.

In colder

regions, growrooms operating on a p.m. to a.m. schedule will have the least amount of radiant heat hindering production.”

Below-freezing air used to cool off air-cooled reflectors housing high-wattage HID lamps may cause condensation to occur on duct runs, walls and equipment.

Either temper the air in a separate space indoors prior to allowing it to enter the reflector housing, or operate the fans on rheostats or fan-speed temperature controllers to facilitate less energy consumption and prevent uncomfortably cool temperatures. Also, you can recycle grow light heat back into the house to reduce natural gas costs from furnaces or added electrical costs from space heaters—you’d be surprised how much usable heat a few 1,000-watt lights will generate! Make sure to HEPA filter all fresh-air intake points, as plant pests and other nasty organisms will be looking to vacation in the HID oasis you’ve created.

Water-chilled systems are another great example of newage growroom technology currently sparking the interest of avid indoor farmers intending to keep production consistent year-round. Cloning systems that once suffered from pumps overheating reservoir solutions are easily kept to a specific chilled temperature dictated automatically by portable and weatherproof water-chilling units.

Although water chillers may seem like a luxury, you can save energy by operating them in the winter since colder air is more readily available. If you’re running a chiller

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

to improve the condition of your nutrient solution, you’re probably already using an air pump to provide enhanced oxygen levels to the root—and if not, it may help. Place the air pump in a cold closet, crawl space or garage if possible and run the air line to the air stone or diffuser. Avoid lengthy air lines, as this may decrease the overall pump output. Low water temperatures may also decrease oxygen availability to the root system, so don’t get overzealous with temperatures below 18°C or suffocation could result. Reservoir heaters (I prefer titanium) combine plug-and-play versatility with a low electrical draw and many integrate a digital LCD for precise temperature control and to prevent overheating. Keep the reservoir at a solid 18 to 21°C for optimal root health and nutrient uptake and to ensure that concentrations of dissolved oxygen are available to your plants.

Winter is a great time for indoor gardening. Seasonal crops that may have been difficult to source for consumers during the winter months because they were field or greenhouse grown can be produced indoors on a perpetual cycle and you’ll be able to charge top-market price for these outof-season rarities. Fresh yellowstriped boar tomatoes, delicate squash blossoms, ghost peppers and more can now all be harvested in December or January due to the research that has been done and the technological innovations that have resulted in the last few years in the world of indoor horticulture.

I urge everyone who is passionate about indoor high-tech gardening to try to enlighten an interested friend or family member. Seeds, dirt and a fluorescent bulb are all it takes to start the beginning of a wonderful addiction—and the more minds we have working together to promote our industry, the more innovation will continue to thrive in the world of hydroponic, organic and year-round gardening.

Seeds, dirt and a fluorescent

bulb are all it takes to start the beginning of a wonderful addiction.”

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

39

AD

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

Oxygenate,

Respirate or Suffocate

All plants need oxygen for proper functioning and health.

Oxygen starvation can result in a myriad of crises in the garden that can’t be reversed.

So, how do you know if your plants are starved for oxygen?

Pay attention.

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Oxygen is a somewhat overlooked element when it comes to the essential plant nutrients. While we focus on nitrogen-topotassium ratios, calcium-boosting formulations, optimal EC and carbon dioxide enrichment, the roots of our plants can be quietly suffocating, unseen and forgotten. Although photosynthesis is often seen as the process that drives plant growth and determines yields, there is another equally important energyproduction process taking place in the root zone—respiration.

Respiration is a process in the root tissues that releases metabolic energy, which is required to fuel root growth, nutrient and water absorption and root cell functioning. If oxygen is in short supply the roots begin to suffocate, root growth slows or stops and there can even be a net loss of nutrient ions from the root system under anaerobic conditions.

Why do plants need all this oxygen?

In many hydroponic systems, we like to think that oxygen in the root zone is always in plentiful supply; after all, soilless productions are supposed to eliminate all those soil problems such as compaction, waterlogging and poor physical properties of the substrate. Many growers also factor in some form of oxygenation in their nutrient reservoir or system, either with nutrient fountains, fall-back cascades into the solution or air pumps, but is it really enough? The problem with root zone oxygenation in many hydroponic systems has as much to do with oxygen demand by the plants as with supply. Large healthy plants grown in a limited root zone such as a growing slab, bag or channel amass a huge surface area of root tissue in a relatively small volume. This, combined with the fact that indoor gardens can provide perfect growing conditions, plenty of warmth, optimal water and nutrients, means that the rapidly developing mature plants that result can have an incredible demand for oxygen in the somewhat limited root zone they are grown in.

We then need to consider the fact that even a highly aerated nutrient solution can only normally carry around 7 to 8 ppm at 20 to 31°C, and the potential of oxygen suffocation becomes apparent. A mature hydroponically grown tomato plant at optimal temperatures has an oxygen requirement of 46 mg per plant per hour at 20°C, and this increases to 184 mg per plant per hour at 30°C. Warmer temperatures increase the rate of root respiration dramatically.

The problem

with root zone oxygenation in many hydroponic systems has as much to do with oxygen demand by the plants as with supply.”

Static solution culture systems benefit from some additional root aeration to boost dissolved oxygen levels.

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oxygenate, respirate or suffocate

As nutrients

Aeration of the nutrient solution helps boost dissolved oxygen levels.

Furthermore, microbial life in the root zone also requires oxygen for growth and development and in some systems this can also have an impact. Of course, in a standard substratebased hydroponic system the plant root system is not just dependent on oxygen dissolved in the nutrient solution for respiration; oxygen is also present in the air-filled pores of the growing media. As nutrients are applied and flow through the growing media and then drain from the base, fresh air is pulled down into the root zone, filling the pores around the roots. Provided the media is permitted to actually fully drain and is not continually (or too frequently) irrigated with nutrient solution, air will remain in these pore spaces to provide some oxygen to the root system. These air-filled pores require replenishment on a frequent basis; however, as the high volume of root tissue absorbs oxygen rapidly. Here is where many inexperienced hydroponic growers run into problems with root zone oxygenation and suffocation. Some growing substrates naturally drain freely and hold a lot of air; chunky grades of perlite are one example. Some substrates though (most often those composed of organic material that is still in the decomposition phase) can pack down and eliminate many of the air-filled pores which provide vital oxygenation to the root zone. Many hydroponic substrates are designed to be able to both absorb and hold moisture between irrigations and also to have a good air-filled 44

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

are applied and flow through the growing media and then drain from the base, fresh air is pulled down into the root zone, filling the pores around the roots.”

porosity, but if these types of substrates are irrigated too frequently, they can still become oversaturated, a process that robs the root zone of valuable oxygen supplies.

What does root suffocation look like?

A lack of oxygen in the root zone causing root suffocation is not always easy to identify. Often the first sign under warmer growing conditions is midday wilting of the foliage, even when the growing media is fully irrigated. Unfortunately, midday wilting can also have other causes, such as a high EC, root death due to damage, chemical contamination of the water or recent transplanting. Many growers simply assume a wilting plant has insufficient moisture in the root zone and apply more irrigation. This is a disaster for an over-irrigated crop that’s already suffering oxygen depletion, as waterlogging excludes even more air from around the root zone.

Under prolonged oxygen starvation, most commonly seen in waterlogged hydroponic crops, plants produce the stress hormone ethylene that accumulates in the roots. If oxygen

Sufficient

signs of root decay within a few days starvation goes on for long enough, ethylof inoculation with pythium, whereas ene will also start to be produced in the higher oxygen treatments showed shoots of the plant, causing leaf epinasty. levels of oxygen in the no infection.

Epinasty is a downward curvature of the root zone are essential for plant’s leaves, resulting in plants that look healthy roots, which are wilted but are otherwise turgid. If oxygen Oxygen and the first line of defence starvation continues and is severe, eventuphysiological against many disease ally leaf chlorosis (yellowing) and premadisorders pathogens.” ture leaf and flower abscission will occur.

Oxygenation in the root zone is also linked In cases that are not so severe, plants such as to a number of physiological disorders, many tomatoes may produce adventitious roots on the of which become more pronounced under lower stem and present swelling at the base. This is the warmer and more stressful growing conditions. Blossom plant’s attempt to survive in less than ideal conditions, end rot of tomatoes and capsicum and tipburn of lettuce, and the symptoms have caused many inexperienced strawberries and many green vegetables all have environmental growers to enquire about strange bumpy stems on their influences. However, suffocation of the root zone has been tomato plants. shown to induce high levels of these disorders. This is because

Oxygen and root disease Sufficient levels of oxygen in the root zone are essential for healthy roots, which are the first line of defence against many disease pathogens. In many cases, root pathogens such as pythium will attack roots that are already weakened.

Studies have shown a direct link between the availability of oxygen in the root zone and infection rates with root rot pathogens—low oxygen treatments typically started to show

the main plant nutrient most affected by a lack of oxygen in the root zone is calcium. Calcium, unlike the other major nutrients, is absorbed primarily through unsuberised root tips. The root apex has a large energy requirement for new cell production and growth and is therefore vulnerable to oxygen stress. If an increasing number of root tips begin to suffer from an oxygen deficiency, a shortage of calcium in the shoots becomes more likely and this makes the development of calcium-related disorders such as blossom end rot and tipburn more common.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

45

oxygenate, respirate or suffocate

How to oxygenate to maximise growth In solution culture, plants obtain oxygen dissolved in the nutrient solution and also directly from the moist air in which the upper level of the root zone should be sitting.

Completely submerging roots in nutrient film technique (NFT) is not ideal, as this significantly reduces plant root access to the much higher concentration of oxygen in the air compared to that in the nutrient solution.

Aeroponic plants obtain sufficient oxygen from the air directly surrounding the misted roots, while plants in mediabased systems obtain oxygen dissolved in the nutrient solution and from the air-filled pore space surrounding the roots.

The air-filled pores surrounding the roots become flooded with nutrient during irrigation, though, and only after draining do they refill with fresh air. For this reason, one of the best ways of keeping the root zone bathed in fresh oxygen is to control irrigation so that the air-filled pore spaces are permitted to fully drain between applications of nutrient.

Overwatering causing waterlogging is the main cause of root suffocation in media-based hydroponic systems. In ebb and flow systems there is a good opportunity to push and drag fresh air down into the root zone with each cycle; however, this will only occur if complete and full draining of the growing media occurs. Poorly designed ebb and flow systems often have a perched water table where excess solution sits in the base of the growing containers even after the drain cycle has completed, and for many plants this can cause root suffocation issues over time. In nutrient film technique systems, the ideal is to maintain a thin film of nutrient, not a deep flow, so that roots can access oxygen directly from the air above the 1 to 2-mm flow of nutrients.

Healthy, well-oxygenated roots are essential for maximum plant productivity.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

In pond or raft systems it is vital that sufficient oxygen is introduced via the nutrient solution, so active aeration via compressors or air pumps at regular intervals in the pond are important for crops that have a high oxygen requirement. All nutrient reservoirs should have some form of oxygenation to help boost levels in the solution. The cascade or fall-back method works well, and the higher the fall-back of nutrient into the reservoir the more oxygen will be introduced into the solution. Fountains, air pumps with air stones to break up the air flow into smaller bubbles and other oxygen enrichment systems are all worth investing in for a healthy crop and maximum root respiration rates.

How to measure oxygen Dissolved oxygen in solution can be easily measured with the use of a handheld electronic oxygen meter, and there are also less expensive test kits designed for use in aquariums available, although these can be somewhat less accurate.

Dissolved oxygen meters have the ability to give readings in parts per million and also to record temperature and then express the oxygen levels as a percentage of saturation. This percentage of saturation measurement is actually a more meaningful guide in hydroponic systems, as it is an indication of how well the aeration methods used are working within the system at any given temperature. At the nutrient reservoir, dissolved oxygen levels should be at least 5 to 6 ppm under warm conditions (solution temperatures between 10 to 20°C), and a well-oxygenated solution at 10°C can be as high as 12 to 13 ppm. Super-saturation with oxygen is also possible using various technologies, and this has also been shown to boost plant growth and yields in a number of hydroponic crops.

Different crops and oxygen requirements As a general rule, the larger the plant and the leaf area of the crop, the higher the demand for oxygen. Small plants such as lettuce have a relatively low requirement for oxygen in the root zone, while larger, longer-term fruiting plants such as tomato and cucumber place much greater demands on the root zone for oxygenation. In solution culture systems, the number and size of plants dependent on the oxygen supply in the nutrient determines how fast oxygen will deplete. For this reason, growers should consider installing the largest nutrient reservoir they can, as this slows the change in rates of oxygenation as the temperature increases during the day. Oxygen has also been known to deplete from one end of NFT channels to the other under warm growing conditions, so limitations in channel length should be considered when crops such as tomatoes and cucumbers are being grown.

In Conclusion Oxygen shouldn’t be forgotten. Along with CO2 and all the mineral ions, it is essential for plant functioning and health.

While it may not be necessary to directly measure dissolved oxygen levels every day, it is important to take oxygenation into consideration when thinking about the design of a hydroponic system, the frequency of irrigation required and the type of growing media and aeration methods to be used in the reservoir and in solution culture.

Above: Good levels of oxygen help ensure healthy root systems.

Below: Nutrient film technique systems rely on a thin film of nutrient flow, which allows plants to access oxygen from both the solution and moist air in the channel.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

47

MAKING a Natural PLANT GROWTH

Regulator CHEAPLY

by Ryan M. Taylor

Plant growth regulators are making a buzz in the hydroponics industry, and one of the reasons is because they’re so darn expensive. Here’s how to make your own—it’s simpler than it sounds!

The hydroponics industry has been abuzz in recent months with discussions concerning plant growth regulators (PGRs), hormones that are used ubiquitously in the horticulture industry. These products are used throughout the lifecycle of plants, whether we are using auxins to produce rooted cuttings or paclobutrazol to retard the vertical growth of plants. Most of the conversations I have participated in recently have revolved around one of three dimensions: the use and safety of these products, whether it is better to use natural or synthetic hormones and why these products are so expensive to purchase. Any one of these topics would necessitate much more column space than is available here, so I will primarily focus on a single topic that has ramifications across the aforementioned dimensions: making a natural plant growth regulator cheaply.

From the outset, I should make my personal philosophy clear: I advocate using plant growth regulators

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to efficiently optimise plant growth, regardless of whether they are derived with natural methods or synthetically created. Since I run my own hydroponic horticulture business and keep a vigilant eye on my cost structure and profit margins, I generally choose to create my own PGRs naturally rather than buy them. While this might sound daunting, the technique I will describe hereafter provides cost savings across the board for interested growers.

The basic method can be summarised as follows: recirculate your nutrient solution for an extended period of time (e.g. beyond one year) to allow organic compounds exuded from the roots, including PGRs, to accumulate in the nutrient solution. So, rather than periodically discarding your complete solution, you should simply top-off your solution with pure water or a diluted-nutrient solution as necessary to maintain a set electrical conductivity level. As the continuously recirculated solution builds up natural PGRs, your canopy size per plant will decrease—but your plants will mature at a faster rate. To maximise this growth strategy, it is recommended that you adopt a continuous production system rather than a batch production strategy.

This might sound too simplistic to work, but I assure you that the science is sound. After reading some technical briefs from NASA, where a team of researchers grew potatoes with the nutrient film technique for over a year without changing the nutrient solution, I attempted this with my own crops. I grew three types of lettuce in flood-and-drain tubes for a year without completely changing the nutrient solution and was amazed at the differences between the early plantings and those near the end. As you can see from the pictures, the plants became smaller over time, but I didn’t lose yield over time.

It amazes me that I could save so much money on nutrient solution and growth regulators by

growing my own PGRs so to speak; however, the major tradeoff is that a lot more planning and effort is needed to rationally manage your nutrient solution parameters. In any event, you can be sure that your PGRs are naturally produced and are appropriate for the crops you are growing.

Using a continuous system, the lettuce was physically smaller, but the yield was not.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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Ventilation Systems

For Greenhouses and Indoor Gardens

by Eric Hopper

Ensuring your greenhouse or indoor garden is properly ventilated is every bit as important to the health of your plants as adequate water and proper nutrition. Here’s a quick guide to the basics.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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Ventilation Systems The ventilation system is the most important aspect of environmental control in any greenhouse or indoor garden.

Plants can be given perfect lighting conditions and the most complete diet of nutrients, but without a properly functioning ventilation system they will inevitably suffer and fall short of their potential. Ventilation systems for both greenhouses and indoor gardens serve the same four important purposes: temperature control, humidity control, air circulation, and, if it is not being supplemented, CO2 replenishment.

Temperature Probably the most obvious reason for ventilation systems is to control temperature. Ventilation systems are commonly used to remove excess heat, created by trapped radiant energy from the sun or by high-intensity discharge lighting from the growing environment. An exhaust fan, like its name suggests, exhausts unwanted heat and stale air from the garden and is usually the first piece of equipment purchased for any ventilation system.

Humidity The humidity level within an enclosed garden is affected by multiple variables. Temperature differences between the inside and outside of an enclosure can cause condensation, which directly affects humidity levels. Plants naturally transpire water, which will also raise the humidity level within an enclosed space. Exhaust fans used to remove unwanted heat can also serve the secondary purpose of removing excess humidity, which would otherwise be trapped in the garden space.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Air circulation Air circulation refers to the air movement within the physical garden space. Greenhouses and indoor gardens alike can benefit greatly from oscillating fans, which create consistent air movement. Not only does consistent air movement result in uniformity of temperature and humidity within the growing environment, it also helps strengthen the structural integrity of your plants.

CO2 replenishment

Plants consume CO2 for photosynthesis and they expel oxygen. If the CO2 in an enclosed environment gets used up by the plants and is not replenished, the plants’ ability to photosynthesise will be compromised—ventilation systems replace stale, CO2-depleted air with fresh air containing new CO2 for plants to process.

Ventilation set-up for indoor gardens Heat naturally rises, so it is most efficient to have your exhaust fan positioned high in the grow room. The fresh air intake point should be placed low in the growroom, preferably on the opposite side of the room from the exhaust. This will ensure fresh air movement across the garden. Air follows the path of least resistance, so it is important when setting up a ventilation system to determine where the air will flow.

Imagine a string from the fresh air intake point to the point of exhaust. Assuming there aren’t any large physical obstacles impeding airflow, this will be the ventilation path.

Fan sizing for indoor gardens Many factors will influence what size of fan you choose.

Additional equipment such as air conditioners, dehumidifiers and CO2 burners will all affect your choice of ventilation fans.

For a starting point, let’s assume there will be no additional equipment and that the climate of your garden is about average. A good rule of thumb is to have 7.5 cubic metres per minute (m3/min) of air movement per 1,000-W light— for example, a room with 4,000-W should have an exhaust system with a m3/min rating of 30 or higher. For growers who decide to use a passive intake—with no fan—a slightly higher rating for their exhaust might be necessary to create enough negative pressure to allow sufficient airflow. The opening for a passive air intake should be a minimum of twice the size of the exhaust. Gardeners who use an intake fan should choose one with a slightly lower rating than the exhaust fan, which will ensure a slight negative pressure in the grow room.

An air conditioner can dramatically decrease the cubic metres per minute needed to exhaust heat and this should be taken into consideration when setting up any ventilation system. Generally speaking, every 10,000 BTUs of air conditioning will replace 7.5 m3/min of exhaust and should be able to efficiently cool a 1,000-W light. On the other hand, dehumidifiers and CO2 burners add heat to a grow room and might require you to install a larger exhaust fan.

New cooling technologies and ventilation systems There have been many technological advances in indoor garden heat management in recent years, all of which can

Ventilation

affect the sizing and set-up of ventilation systems can often systems. Air or prove the downfall of water cooled the novice greenhouse reflectors will drastically reduce grower; many will never heat in the room, associate the mould, minimising the insects or diseases required size of your exhaust fan. they have managed to Some cuttingacquire with having poor edge growers are now combinventilation.” ing air or water cooled reflectors, dehumidifiers and super-efficient mini-split ventless air conditioning units. Used in conjunction, these technologies reduce heat to a minimum and—as long as CO2 is being supplemented— make exhaust fans unnecessary.

Greenhouse ventilation Excess heat or stale air within a greenhouse will result in slow growth and poor overall crop performance. Ventilation systems can often prove the downfall of the novice greenhouse grower; many will never associate the mould, insects or diseases they have managed to acquire with having poor ventilation. There are two common ways to set up a ventilation system in a greenhouse: naturally or mechanically.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

55

Ventilation Systems

Natural ventilation The keys to natural ventilation are wind and thermal buoyancy. Thermal buoyancy refers to the rising of warm air within the greenhouse, a process which actually contributes to efficient ventilation. A greenhouse using natural ventilation will have either retractable or removable sides or roof panels, or a series of vents. Hoop houses with retractable sidewalls are great examples of the use of natural ventilation.

With the sides raised, the wind can flow through the greenhouse and replace warm, stale air with fresh air from outside.

Greenhouses with a series of roof and sidewall vents remove heat via wind and natural thermal buoyancy. As wind passes over a roof vent it creates a vacuum within the greenhouse, which draws air through the sidewall vents and out the roof vents. Thermal buoyancy is most effective when there is a large temperature difference between the outside air and the air in the greenhouse. Cooler air enters the greenhouse through the sidewall vents and as the air heats up it rises and exits the greenhouse through the roof vents.

On warm days where the temperature difference is minimal, the buoyancy effect is not as powerful.

Mechanical ventilation Mechanical ventilation in greenhouses is similar to that found in indoor gardens. Fan systems create air movement, which brings fresh air into the greenhouse and exhausts unwanted heat and humidity.

Greenhouse fan sizing Fan systems operating during summer months should be sized to provide one volume of air exchange per minute, to a height of 3.05 m. We use 3.05 m as a constant when determining fan capacity for year-round greenhouses.

The general rule of thumb for sizing fans is to multiply

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

the greenhouse’s length by its height and then multiply by the constant of 3.05 m. That number will give us the cubic meter per minute capacity needed to sufficiently cool the greenhouse. Calculating the fan capacity required for a 4.57 by 18.29 m. greenhouse would look like this:

4.57 m x 18.29 m x 3.05 m = 254.93 m3/min capacity required for year-round cooling Ventilation needs will vary with the seasons and cooler months will require a less aggressive amount of air exchange. In winter months, most ventilation systems can be reduced to one third of full fan capacity, so it is advantageous for growers who plan on using their greenhouses year-round to invest in variable speed fans or fans that can be controlled by a dimmer or thermostat. Larger greenhouses might require multiple large fans for cooling during the summer months, but a reduced number of fans will be required during the winter.

Fan placement Exhaust fans should be positioned high on the wall opposite the intake vents so that air flows over the plant canopy on its way through the greenhouse. If possible, set up your fans to work in conjunction with the prevailing winds. This can help ventilation systems work up to 20% more efficiently. Passive intakes (with no fan) should be 1.5 times the size of the exhaust fan in order to ensure sufficient intake and to make sure exhaust fans aren’t overworked. If strong negative pressure is apparent—for example, if doors are hard to open because they are literally being sucked shut or the greenhouse plastic is being pulled tightly against the frame—the size of the passive intake opening needs to be increased.

One highly

One highly efficient way of taking in efficient way of taking in and distributing fresh air in and distributing fresh a greenhouse air in a greenhouse is is by using a by using a perforated perforated polyethylene tube polyethylene tube that that inflates and inflates and extends extends among among the plants.” the plants. The intake fan fills the tube with fresh air and pushes it through the holes in the plastic, which allows fresh air to reach the plants in a direct and uniform manner. This technique is especially effective in larger greenhouses that would otherwise only have fresh air entering one end of the building. The use of perforated polyethylene tubes does require intake fans, and as with an indoor garden, these fans should have a slightly lower rating than the exhaust fans so they’ll produce a gentle negative pressure within the greenhouse.

The ventilation systems we install in our greenhouses and indoor gardens are a vital component in our attempt to recreate nature indoors. Just as the wind strengthens, revitalises and nourishes plant life outdoors, the ventilation systems in artificial environments directly influence plant health and production. Sufficient air movement combined with proper fan sizing and placement will reduce the potential for problems and can help create ideal conditions for efficient horticultural production.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

57

by

in

Chad Garbet

Hydroponics

Some people see the impossible as nothing more than a challenge.

Venus flytraps are a bit of a challenge to grow hydroponically, but if you can get it just right, they make a gorgeous and exciting addition (or centrepiece) to your garden…

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

A lot of time and effort has to go into a hydroponic Venus flytrap—it’s not any ordinary plant. Checking the pH at least twice a day is usually a must, and a humidity dome helps a bit too since most carnivorous plants like the flytrap are found in bogs and swamps, so they like a moist climate.

“Even though it’s called a flytrap, flies are the least of the plant’s diet.”

Medium

When choosing a grow medium for the flytrap, don’t try something that raises the pH too much. Certain hydroponic grow media are particularly great because they are pH neutral. A good mix to try is coco polymer covered with a layer of diatomaceous earth. One can also use soil in conjunction with a hydroponic system when growing flytraps since these plants will not get any form of root rot. Soil is a harder method, but it does pay off. The soil mix should consist of something like this: five parts peat moss, three parts silica sand and two parts perlite by volume. The silica sand helps with aeration and the formation of a healthy root system.

To hold the soil in the hydroponic system, use a reusable coffee filter. Be sure to use one of the plastic ones so the water can flow through into the soil without making a big muddy mess in the reservoir. It’s still possible to lose some soil through the reusable coffee filter, so top-ups every once in a while might be necessary.

pH

This is the most hassle of the whole hydroponic flytrap experiment. The Venus flytrap likes low pH—like most plants that live in bogs or swamps—so some pH down and a pH pen or strips are definitely needed when growing this plant. A constant pH of 4.5 to 5.5 is ideal, so one must check the pH at least twice a day (pH will slowly rise even when using a pH-neutral grow medium). If using soil, one will probably have to check levels three or four times a day. A bigger reservoir can help fix this problem, often to the point that a gardener only has to check pH a few times a week.

Diet

The diet of the Venus flytrap is extremely important. The roots of the plant don’t absorb nutrients, so that leaves all the work up to the flytrap’s head. Even though it’s called a flytrap, flies are the least of the plant’s diet. It mostly eats insects that crawl on the ground, such as ants, spiders, beetles and grasshoppers. The flytrap traps its prey and sucks the needed nutrients out of it with enzymes made in glands

found in the plant’s head. It takes the plant several days to fully digest the nutrients from an insect; afterward, the trap will open to reveal a depleted husk of an exoskeleton.

It is an amazing sight to see the flytrap shut on its prey, trapping them into their impending doom and slowly digesting them over several days. This display makes the plant—which comes in a few different colours and shapes— a great interactive treat for visitors who come to view your garden.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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Vermicompost: Fertiliser From Worms Want to produce your very own homemade organic fertiliser while eliminating waste from landfills? Well, it’s all about the worm poop.

by Matt LeBannister There are few friends in the garden more important than the earthworm.

Worms increase the permeability of soil, improving drainage and allowing more air and water to penetrate the soil. They eat organic material and the waste they produce, referred to as worm castings, is a micronutrient-rich organic fertiliser. Worm castings are not only rich in the micronutrients our plants crave, but they are also full of beneficial bacteria.

Now, what if I told you that you could bring the benefits of worms to the indoor garden? What if you could use them to make your own fertiliser loaded with micronutrients and you could do it essentially for free? Too good to be true? Actually, making, maintaining and harvesting your own vermicompost is a really simple process that anyone can learn if they follow a few easy steps.

Making your own worm bin Worm bins are easy to make at home. First, you need a box or bin (plastic storage containers are great for this) to house your worms and the compost. The size of the box depends on the amount of food scraps your family produces. The box must be

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

no taller than 30 to 45 cm, otherwise the weight of the compost can cause compaction—and if there is not enough air getting to the compost, it won’t be a healthy environment for the worms and millions of beneficial bacteria that are converting the compost into a great organic fertiliser. To further improve oxygen levels in your worm bin, drill small holes around the sides of your container, roughly 5 to 10 cm above the base.

The next step is to line the base of your worm bin with a few centimetres of bedding. Bedding will house the worms and can be made from a light organic material. Shredded newspaper that has been moistened, but not soaked, with water makes great worm bin bedding. Once the bedding is in place, you can add the worms. Worms can be purchased at bait shops or dug up in a garden. The worms will work their way down into the bedding instinctively.

making, maintaining and harvesting your own vermicompost is a really simple process that anyone can learn if they follow a few easy steps.”

Feeding your worms Now that your worms are comfortably set up in your worm bin, it is time to start feeding them. Spread organics loosely over the bedding. Most table scraps are acceptable to add to your worm bin. Fruit and vegetable rinds are great, as well as eggshells and coffee grinds (in small amounts). You can also add lawn clippings, leaves and used napkins and paper towel.

Try to avoid adding meat, dairy and fatty foods, mainly due to the odour (especially if your worm bin is indoors). Also, citrus fruits can be a problem if you add too much.

Harvesting your vermicompost After two to three months, your vermicompost is ready to be added to your indoor or outdoor garden. If you are able to wait four to six months, the organics in your worm bin will resemble healthy soil. To harvest your vermicompost, you need to sort out the worms. One of the easiest ways to do this is to spread the contents of your worm bin on a tarp underneath a light. Try to pile it all into a pyramid shape. The worms will instinctively move away from the light, to the lowest section of the vermicompost pyramid. Remove the top third of the pile and repeat the process until you have removed most of the compost and most of the worms are left in the bottom. Keep the last bit of compost containing the worms and reintroduce it into your worm bin once you have adding fresh bedding. The little bit of compost will accelerate the breakdown of the next round of organics added to your worm bin. You can now repeat the process of feeding and harvesting year-round.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

61

Root Rot

& Blight

by Karen Wilkinson

Banish blight and root rot using these smart maintenance moves.

Some of the dirtiest words, for gardeners, that is, have nothing to do with human anatomy or sexuality, but rather the pests and diseases that threaten their crops. This article discusses two common, dirty, dreadful diseases that have the potential to kill plants if not caught early and treated.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Root rot and blight—a fungi and disease—generally show up in your garden when overwatering has occurred.

There are treatment options available, but they are limited. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain healthy, well-drained plants in as sterile an environment as possible.

Root Rot Root rot is typically caused by prolonged overwatering, oxygen deprivation or by fungus-infected soil. Root rot symptoms include yellowing and possibly wilting leaves. The fungi basically block a root’s oxygen intake, eventually leading to decaying, dying roots; in essence you can lose the entire plant if the problem isn’t caught and treated early.

The best way to diagnose root rot is to inspect the roots.

Infected roots can appear light brown to dark brown and even turn black. They might feel mushy and slimy and may even fall off. In the worst-case scenario, the plant’s base can become infected and turn dark.

Quickly treating an infected plant is your best defense, and even then, the plant’s chances of full recovery are slim. No spray will cure this devastating ailment. Cultural controls such as preventing root-eating insects, fungi and bacteria, maintaining a proper pH, using a clean growing medium and maintaining adequate calcium levels are the only defense. Upon detection, immediately remove the plant from the soil or growing medium and wash the roots with water, washing away as much soil and affected roots as possible. Be careful while doing this; your poor plant is already in a fragile state.

Then, get a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or trimming shears and cut off any rotting roots. If the disease is significant enough, you may have to remove a large portion of the root system. Also get rid of the soil or growing medium the plant was in and thoroughly wash the container with a bleach/water solution to rid it of any lingering fungus. As a precaution, dip the healthy roots in a fungicide solution to kill any remaining root rot. Replant using new potting mix in a clean container with good drainage and only water when the soil is dry.

Blight Blight is a general term that describes a variety of diseases caused by fungus, usually showing up a few weeks before harvest. Symptoms of blight include leaves that suddenly yellow and wilt, or have dark, blotchy spots, which can all lead to death. It spreads quickly, it’s hard to control when in advanced stages and sometimes the only way to rid your plants of the problem is to rid yourself of the plants.

Prevention, as with all pests, diseases and fungal infections, is the key to combating blight. Maintain a well-drained growing medium and avoid excessively fertilising with nitrogen.

With these smart maintenance moves, root rot and blight in your growing space are one step closer to being a thing of the past!

“Quickly treating an infected plant is your best defense, and even then, the plant’s chances of full recovery are slim.”

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

63

Microbe

Magic

What can soil microbes do?

They might just change the way you grow.

by Luis Bartolo

There is an increasing awareness of the importance of soil biology among growers, but there is probably more confusion and mistrust than actual clarity. As with anything new and promising, there is always misinformation.

This shouldn’t be the case, as there is a wealth of scientific knowledge in soil biotechnology. Two of the most well-known microorganism genera are:

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

“When there are sufficient nitrogenfixing bacteria in a soil, the need for fertiliser goes way down.”

• Azospirillum spp. takes nitrogen from the atmosphere and makes it available to plant roots (nitrogen fixation). Nitrogen fixation is often high, but is not the only benefit of azospirillum for plants. When the bacteria are present on the roots of plants they have the ability to increase the root hairs on each root by producing plant growth hormones (auxins) that cause the plant to produce more roots.

• Azotobacter spp. use and oxidise organic matter to release nitrogen. They also take nitrogen directly from the air, which combines with the liberated nitrates to make nitrogen available to plant roots. Some species of azotobacter can also dissolve tied-up phosphorus from the soil, making it available to plants. They secrete plant growth-promoting hormones (auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins), and antifungal metabolites.

These are just two of the hundreds of beneficial organisms out there. They are available commercially in varying qualities. Additions can improve crop performance and reduce the need for

chemical fertilisers. They grow well in the presence of nitrogen fertiliser, but if these substances are abundant, they won’t fixate atmospheric nitrogen. They should not be seen as a quick fix; rather they should be seen as part of a soil-improvement program. Factors such as pH, organic carbon levels, cation balance, fallow management and other cultural practices can turn a moderate response potential into an excellent one.

Beneficial soil bacteria Among the hundreds of species of beneficial soil bacteria, there are groups that will pull nitrogen out of the air in soil and convert it into a liquid form that is available to feed plants. When there are sufficient nitrogen-fixing bacteria in a soil, the need for fertiliser goes way down.

Other bacteria will decompose organic matter and even break down pesticide residues if they are in your soil. Soil bacteria will actually reduce

soil compaction by improving soil structure, creating microscopic spaces or rooms in the soil to hold air or water. Some soil bacteria act as policemen and will suppress soil pathogens that could cause disease in your plants, reducing the need to ever use any fungicides.

Soil microbes products There are a growing number of products on the market that will help restore many of the beneficial soil microbes lacking in the soil in most home landscapes. Some come in powdered form and can be used in that form or mixed with water to be applied as a foliar spray or as a drench directly into the soil around plants. Others are already in liquid form and are used as a foliar spray or as a drench. In addition, there are now machines designed to produce these liquids containing soil microbes.

These liquids are a kind of tea created from compost, earthworm castings or microbial powders.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

65

Have You

F orgotten

magnesium? by

Dr.

J

B enton

JONES

jr .

M agnesium is an essential plant nutrient element that has attracte d little attenti o n , b ut its insufficienc y can significantl y affect plant gr o wth an d fruit y iel d .

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

At the beginning of my professional career as an assistant professor of agronomy at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Centre, I wanted to get acquainted with the agricultural industry in my area. With the coming of spring, newly planted crops were emerging, new growth was appearing in pastures and trees were advancing into full leaf. In summer, however, I observed that not all crop plants were growing well, with visual evidence of a possible nutrient element deficiency— even some of the roadside plants were showing signs of stress.

The visual leaf symptoms on all of these plants were similar to those present in magnesium (Mg) deficiencies.

At the time, a graduate student in the agronomy department was concluding a long-term corn fertiliser research project on plots located on each of the major soil types in the state.

He had observed visual leaf symptoms of a possible nutrient element deficiency on corn plants in some treatment plots.

We collected soil samples and leaf tissue from plants showing symptoms. Most of the plant tissues collected were found to be either deficient in Mg, or close to it. Most of the soils collected with the plant tissues, however, tested sufficient in Mg, based on soil testing interpretation criteria at the time.

A more detailed analysis was required, so we collected sufficient quantities of soil to conduct a greenhouse study. With the coming of the next crop year, we made preparations to revisit those sites where I had collected plant tissue and soil samples the year before. But as the season progressed, the expected symptoms of Mg deficiency did not appear! No more widespread signs of Mg deficiency were seen in field crops or even among roadside plants. So, what had been the cause for the high incidence of Mg deficiency symptoms seen in many plants throughout the region the previous year? The answer was that the previous year was the final year of a succession of summers of low rainfall and high air temperatures, coupled with high light-intensity days due to cloudless sky conditions, meaning that plants had undergone a number of years of moisture and heat stress. Now, with more normal rainfall, moisture stress was at a minimum, while air temperatures were also within their normal expected range and cloud-covered days had returned.

“Stress was the factor that had contributed to the widespread appearance of Mg-deficient plant leaf symptoms and these symptoms had then disappeared when growing conditions became less stressful.”

Stress was the factor that had contributed to the widespread appearance of Mg-deficient plant leaf symptoms and these symptoms had then disappeared when growing conditions became less stressful.

At one time, Mg was classified as a secondary element along with the elements calcium (Ca) and sulfur (S). Today, that classification has been dropped and Mg, Ca and S are classed as major elements, in the same grouping with the elements nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). An atom of Mg is in the structure of the chlorophyll molecule.

Magnesium acts as an enzyme activator in various energytransfer functions in plants, so any deficiency will slow plant growth. The visual leaf symptom of a Mg deficiency is a chlorosis appearing on older leaf tissue, which is an indication that this element is mobile in the plant.

For those growing in soil, Mg sufficiency is usually assumed when the soil is adequately supplied with Ca and the soil water pH is within the recommended range. However, Mg soil availability is pH-dependent and if the soil water pH is less than 5.4, Mg deficiency can occur even when soil Mg availability is classed as being sufficient. When liming an acidic soil based on a soil test recommendation, the form of limestone recommended may be specified depending on the soil test level for Mg. If the level is less than sufficient, dolomitic limestone would be recommended, since this form of limestone contains Mg. Among the three cations, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+, the Mg2+ cation is the least competitive and its deficiency can be induced when both K and Ca are at high levels in the rooting medium, whether the rooting medium is a nutrient solution or a solid matrix. Ammonium is another cation that is highly competitive among the three major cations and its presence in the rooting medium can be a factor in creating Mg deficiency in a plant.

There are plant species and varieties within species that are sensitive to Mg and deficiencies can occur when the plant is

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magnesium under moisture or “For those growing in soil, Magnesium temperature stress, even when there is sufficiency is usually assumed when the soil is sufficient Mg in the adequately supplied with Calcium and the soil rooting medium or water pH is within the recommended range.” in that being supplied by a nutrient solution.

Tomato plants are classified as deficiency. I believe that many nutrient solution formulations Mg sensitive. Among field crop plants, corn is also Mg are insufficient in Mg or that the other major cations in the sensitive, although plant breeding has reduced this sensitivity formulation are at such concentration levels that Mg root to some degree. absorption is impaired—the Steiner concept of elemental balThe appearance of visual Mg deficiency symptoms in ance among the ions in a nutrient solution addresses the issue greenhouse tomatoes is not an uncommon occurrence when of cation balance as essential to ensure plant nutrient element plants are setting and maturing fruit, as this function acts as sufficiency. Most hydroponic nutrient solution formulations a form of stress on the tomato plant’s metabolism. Adding do not take into consideration the effect that Mg concentramore Mg to the nutrient solution or rooting medium at this tion and its ratio among the other major cations can have on plant stage of growth will not correct the deficiency, though, the potential for creating a Mg insufficiency. as its origin occurred during the vegetative plant growth What determines Mg sufficiency in a rooting medium and period, either due to insufficient Mg being supplied or as a within the plant is a complex subject, with the occurrence of result of an imbalance among the major cations that reduced its insufficiency the result of various factors as discussed in Mg root absorption. Although insufficiency of Mg during this article.

Magnesium is an essential plant nutrient elevegetative growth may not result in visual leaf symptoms it ment that has attracted little attention, but its insufficiency can eventually be a factor resulting in lower than expected can significantly affect plant growth and fruit yield. How do fruit yield. you avoid an insufficiency?

You should ensure that there is Based on my own hydroponic tomato growing experience, I sufficient Mg in the rooting medium—in proper balance have increased the Mg content in the nutrient solution formuamong the other cation essential nutrient elements—and lation by 50%, so when the tomato plant enters that those factors that can place undue stress on your plants its reproductive stage there is sufficient Mg be minimised. in the plant to advert the potential for

Facts about the essential plant element magnesium Atomic number: 12 Atomic weight: 24.30 Element symbol: Mg Ionic form: Mg2+ Discover of essentiality and year: van Sachs, Knop, 1860 Essential element designation: major element Function: major constituent of the chlorophyll molecule; enzyme activator for a number of energy-transfer reactions Mobility in plants: moderately mobile Form absorbed by plant roots: magnesium (Mg2+) cation Source reagent for making a nutrient solution: magnesium sulfate, MgSO4.7H2O (10% Mg and 23% S) Concentration range in nutrient solution formulations: 30 to 80 mg Mg/L (ppm)

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Form of magnesium in soil: as the magnesium cation (Mg2+) on the colloidal cation exchange complex and in the soil solution Movement in the soil: primarily by diffusion Magnesium-containing fertilisers: magnesium sulfate, MgSO4.7H2O (10% Mg, 23% S); SUL-PO-MAG (magnesium potassium sulfate, K2SO4.MgSO4.6H2O, 5.9% Mg, 9.75 K, 4.9% S) Magnesium-containing limestone: dolomitic limestone (six to 12% Mg) Typical plant deficiency symptoms: yellowing and interveinal chlorosis on older leaves; slow plant growth; reduced fruit yield; possible development of blossom end rot of tomato fruit; increased susceptibility to disease Plant symptoms of excess: results in cation imbalance among Ca and K; slowed growth with the possible development of either Ca or K deficiency symptoms Critical plant level: 0.25% (will vary with plant species, time and plant part) Excessive plant level: >1.50%

book review

William Texier’s

Hydroponics For Everybody All About Home Horticulture

Have you ever wondered about the origins of the word hydroponics or what the differences between hydroponics and soilless media are? Well, those questions and more are answered as soon as you open up William Texier’s new highly anticipated book, Hydroponics for Everybody: All About Home Horticulture.

William is a gardener who likes to keep it simple. In fact, that’s his first piece of advice in his book. In the first chapter, “The Different Hydroponics Systems,” he describes how many hydroponic failures derive from losing sight of this fundamental principle of keeping it simple. With many years in the industry behind him, William is able to include a historical perspective William Texier is of hydro and a true innovator highlight how far in the hydroponics it’s come in the last industry. In 2004 30 years. Following he developed the first chapter and patented bioponics (organic that simplifies the hydroponics). system set-up are Currently, he others that cover manages research nutrients (you and development definitely need at General Hydroponics in Europe and internationally, with a team of researchers those!), substrates drawn from different departments of the (also essential) and University of California. He publishes additives (should articles and conducts seminars around be considered by the world. With 30 years in the field, he is those who demand considered one of the most knowledgeable hydroponics experts worldwide. higher yields).

Hydroponics for Everybody is easy to navigate, and more than 100 computer-generated illustrations and photographs add to the reading experience. This reference guide also has global appeal, as it is available in seven languages and even includes a handy measurement conversion chart. Of particular interest is the section called “The Law and the Label,” which advises the beginner on what a nutrients product’s label should include, and how to decipher the information according to your garden’s needs. “Do not hesitate to run your own tests, comparing different nutrient brands,” William writes. “A well-formulated nutrient is a prime contribution to the success of your growing operation.”

From basic gardening to high-tech installations, everything you ever wanted to know about the art of hydroponics is included in Hydroponics for Everybody and is delivered by a credible source. William first discovered hydroponics in 1985. He had a hand in developing aerohydroponics with his long-time friend and founder of General Hydroponics, Lawrence Brooke. Later, in 1994, he moved back to his hometown in France and created General Hydroponics Europe with his wife, Noucetta Kehdi. Ten years later, William developed and patented bioponics (organic hydroponics), which he covers in chapter 9 (“Can Hydroponics be Organic?”) of his book.

Hydroponics for Everybody is distributed through HydroScope (hydro-scope.com) and is available in the gardening section of bookstores, grow shops, garden stores and online. Think of this great gardener’s companion as every article you’ve ever read about hydroponics in Maximum Yield in one package.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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You Tell Us

Super Imploder UK

>

Mark Herbst, the owner of super imploder UK, dreams of every farm, domestic dwelling and community in the world one day having a Super Imploder water treatment device installed. Here he is to discuss the technology that backs the product, as well as the structured water it creates.

Tell us a little about the company’s history. Who are the people behind the business?

Super Imploder UK is a retailer for The Super Imploder, one of the products of the Fractal Field Company. The history of the Fractal Field Company is based on inventor Dan Winter’s research and development into cutting-edge physics called Phase Conjugate Magnetics and Dialectics (also referred to as Fractal Field Implosive Science). Super Imploder UK was set up by my wife and I after following Dan’s work for many years. We both have the passion to deliver cost-effective alternative means for increasing food yields, and purifying and enhancing water for all forms of life.

Our dealership distributes an effective and sustainable water treatment device with multiple functions, unrivalled in

quality and lifespan. Our dealership also offers consultation and advice on how to implement the product, as well as other modalities to enhance water and agriculture. The Super Imploder combines a few of the nine other projects that are currently underway.

What is a Phi-Magnetic Water Vortexer and how does it work?

The term Phi-Magnetic Water Vortexer is an attempt to summarise and describe the function of the Super Imploder. It uses phase conjugate magnets and a directional nozzle both designed in the Phi-ratio, or golden mean ratio, of 1.618 found in nature and the human body. The magnets and the nozzle create centripetal force at the liquid molecular level that collapses inwards in a spiral vortex, creating spin and sorting by mass. Centripetal force as applied to water causes implosion, which has profound effects on the nature of water. This results in

increased molecular order (structured water) and spin density, which creates intense centripetal, converging, magnetic flux lines and produces independently validated measurements of approximately 328% plant growth increase along with biomass density.

The product is versatile and the nozzle can actually be used on its own without the magnetic array. This allows smallscale growers and those on a tight budget to improve their bottom line for a nominal price. Just the nozzle on its own has a piezo electric effect on the water, meaning it energises the water.

Harder water tends to work better with our device because of the mineral-rich water being more electrically conductive.

The spin effect on the molecules, which sorts them into a more usable structure actually lasts longer under low heat and pressure, making hydroponics an ideal industry to implement this technology.

What are the product’s applications?

The product benefits agricultural, industrial and commercial buildings that use water in different processes, as well as the health and spa industries, domestic dwellings and entire communities. Other applications include fermentation (wine/beer making), drinking water, tar sands oil production, liquid soap manufacturing, aquaponics and algae production, food preparation, fish farming, fuel enhancement, bathing and swimming pools, commercial cleaning and more.

Mark Herbst next to a Super Imploder.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Above: Plants grown using Super Imploder water (bottom) vs. plants grown without (top); Below: The Triploder (three vortex nozzles connected together).

What is structured water exactly, and why do growers need to care about it?

Modern science has become aware that water is programmable and can store information. It does this by varying its bond angles and can therefore assume many different shapes and patterns.

Researchers have found that certain geometries (i.e. the Dodecahedron), and the golden mean ratio in those shapes, make water more beneficial to life and certain technical applications.

A good example is the use of anti-septic water that is created by dropping one part per hundred million of structured water into it. Using structured water equates to greater empowerment of underprivileged nations, money saving, greater crop yields and human health.

How do your products stand out?

Although the product is relatively new (released in 2011), it is in use in more than 20 countries. With so many varied applications, interest is growing rapidly as many people share success stories, and the news of the independently validated test results spreads.

Where are your products available?

Our manufacturer is based in the United States and retails to the United States and Canadian markets through fractalwater.com. Our products are available in the United Kingdom from superimploder.co.uk, and theimploder.com caters to worldwide orders.

How do you test your products to ensure they are ready to market?

The Super Imploder is pressure tested for leaks before it leaves the factory. The magnetic field strength is tested as well as its

vorticity (ability to spin water). Our special phase conjugate magnets are manufactured in house to stringent standards.

Laboratory analysis is also conducted by independent authorities to test the effects on pH, TDS and reduction potential (how much the water is ionized).

What is your best advice for someone just starting a hydroponics garden?

Start small, don’t rush, and let your garden take shape around you. Don’t set unrealistic targets or place yourself under unnecessary pressure. Keep a journal so you can record what worked. Ground your water tank and reservoirs (i.e. drive a copper spike into the ground, and then run a copper wire from the spike into your water tank to charge your water with more energy).

How has your company kept up with the advancements in the hydro industry?

By forming life-long relationships with our clients and receiving continuous feedback, as well as making use of great publications like Maximum Yield.

How important is environmental sustainability to your company?

The inventor, as well as our dealership, was primarily driven by a passion for the preservation of the environment and humanity. Thus, sustainability and the transformation of industry is at the forefront of the business, hence the 30-year lifespan and recyclable nature of our product.

What’s coming up for Super Imploder UK? Inventors are working on a larger commercial model with bigger pipe bore to handle larger volumes of water. Super Imploder UK is soon to release a complete home installation kit that can be used for small-scale farming and drinking water, as we believe the way forward in this trying time on our planet is for every individual to grow as much of their own food as possible.

Have more questions about the Super Imploder? Visit superimploder.co.uk

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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talking shop

At a Glance Company: Reading Hydroponics Owner: Luke Trussler and Snoop Location: 15 Albury Close, Reading, Berkshire, RG301BD Phone: 0118 939 4998 Web: readinghydroponics.co.uk E-mail: info@readinghydroponics.co.uk Motto: “Helping You Grow.”

Although Reading Hydroponics is a new hydro store in Reading, Berkshire, it has already established itself as the place to go for quality branded equipment and reliable advice from its knowledgeable and friendly owners. Luke Trussler and 'Snoop' are two buddies that saw a gap in the market and decided to step up and fill it.

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Before opening Reading Hydroponics in August 2013, Luke and Snoop were friends and carpenters who decided one day to sell up and get into the hydroponics industry. They had noticed a lack of decent grow equipment selection in their neighbourhood and were tired of visiting shops that didn’t carry the brands they were after. “The situation in Berkshire was pretty dire before we came on the scene,” recalls Luke.

“The other shops in the area were unable to provide much built strong customer relationships based on honesty and advice or help; it was a matter of buy what you want and get trust. “Considering we have only been open a short time, we out, which was the opposite of what people wanted, especially have been fortunate to get off to a flying start,” says Snoop. beginners,” explains Snoop.

“Hydroponics is a growth industry, even in these tough The guys decided enough was enough, and opened Reading economic times. With our passion and contacts, we see us Hydroponics to meet going from strength to the Berkshire commustrength as more and nity's growing needs. more people become They were excited at aware of us and our the prospect of becomexclusive Plant Magic, ing Berkshire's premier Dutchpro and Optic grow shop. “Our main Foliar nutrient lines. We problem to begin with also stock House and was getting known and Garden products, top targeting the right cusquality tents, acoustomers. We knew it was tic fans and Lumatek no good having a shop digital ballasts, and have stocked to the rafters a good line of organic with top-quality prodnutrients and soil ucts if nobody knew we mixes, too.” existed,” says Luke.

Luke and Snoop do “That was definitely not miss their old carthe initial challenge,” pentry days and relish agrees Snoop. “So, we coming to work every Snoop, left, and Luke are ready to serve you. were a little cheeky day because they enjoy and paid to put a banner up on private property opposite our the characters that stop by. “We have all sorts of customers competitors' shop and offered a 10% discount to their cuswho really brighten up our days and have learned you cannot tomers. It was aggressive marketing, but it worked. We were judge a book by its cover,” says Luke, who was startled one day absolutely vindicated when every customer said the area had when an older lady hobbled in and announced she needed been crying out for a shop like ours.”

30 600-W bulbs for her chili growing passion.

The lads also advertised locally, set up social media profiles, The guys behind Reading Hydroponics subscribe to the and soon they had a steady stream of customers. Luke and philosophy that growing plants really does help you grow as Snoop met nutrient manufacturers from across the globe and a person and that anyone can cultivate a green soul as well a struck up a friendship with Dinesh from Optic Foliar. “We are green thumb. “Growing plants has been essential to humanextremely pleased to be the only UK stockists of the amazing ity for 10,000 years,” says Snoop. “I believe you just feel good range of foliar sprays that seem to defy nature with how well when you get your hands in a nice pot of soil, or harvest that they work,” says Luke. “The Holy Trinity of TRANSPORT, perfectly grown hydroponic pepper. We have a symbiotic relaREV and WATTS will revolutionise your approach to foliar tionship with plants and growing is a stress reliever. We have feeding as they can all be sprayed with the lights on, and you a number of customers who are hardworking professionals in can be sure the leaves will not burn, but more importantly, the financial sector and they tell us they find it highly stressfour hours later they will contain 38% more NPK and 65% relieving to get home and see how their little green friends more micronutrients.” have been getting on in their absence.”

Luke and Snoop see hydroponics as the future of food An added bonus for Readings Hydroponics was that Snoop production, both locally and globally, and they are happy already knew some of the guys behind the Plant Magic range to be part of a green revolution that is fun, productive and and the Dutchpro nutrient line, and was able to secure exclubeneficial to all. The future looks good for the two friends sivity on these unbeatable nutrients for the Reading area, which drew in customers who were otherwise unable to obtain as they continue to build up their customer base and good reputation, and aim to outgrow their current premises and them. “One thing our customers love is that they can come to our shop and be welcomed in, knowing that any questions will branch out to an even bigger shop. In the meantime, they be answered honestly and they can actually see all products on welcome growers to visit and peruse their extensive range of NFT, DWC, aquaponics, flood and drain systems, air cooled display. This makes a big difference,” says Luke. lights, awesome boosts and root stimulants, high-quality With two friends running Reading Hydroponics, it makes tents and Rhino filters. for a friendly and jovial atmosphere and the guys quickly

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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DO YOU KNOW?

1. 2.

1.A Venus flytrap mostly eats insects that crawl on the ground, such as ants, spiders, beetles and grasshoppers. The plant traps its prey and sucks the needed nutrients out of it with enzymes made in glands found in the plant’s head.

Along with CO2 and all the mineral ions, oxygen is essential for plant functioning and health. It is important to take oxygenation into consideration when thinking about the design of a hydroponic system, the frequency of irrigation required and the type of growing media and aeration methods used in the reservoir and in the solution culture.

3.

After being moved outdoors, your crop will be introduced to pests that it has not seen or dealt with before. You will need to be on guard and ready to help if and when this battle begins.

Ventilation systems for both greenhouses and indoor gardens serve the same four important purposes: temperature control, humidity control, air circulation, and, if it is not being supplemented, CO2 replenishment.

5.

Root rot and blight—a fungi and disease—generally show up in your garden when overwatering has occurred. Treatment options are limited, so it’s crucial to maintain healthy, welldrained plants in as sterile an environment as possible.

Among the hundreds of species of beneficial soil bacteria, there are groups that will pull nitrogen out of the air in soil and convert it into a liquid form that is available to feed plants.

When there are sufficient nitrogenfixing bacteria in a soil, the need for fertiliser goes way down.

7.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

6.

In residential growrooms, adding heat is a lot easier than trying to subtract it, especially during those peak summer heat waves that make it nearly impossible to generate a successful crop without the aid of tons of air conditioning.

8.

Worms increase the permeability of soil, improving drainage and allowing more air and water to penetrate the soil. They eat organic material and the waste they produce, referred to as worm castings, is a micronutrient-rich organic fertiliser.

IndustrY’s Latest Find Mr. & Mrs. BoosT

Seattle, Wa

Novi, MI

May 31-June1

April 5-6

San fran, ca

boston, ma

Oct 18-19

July 26-27

Announcing the 2014 Indoor Gardening Expo Tour Dates 2014 will be a year like no other as Maximum Yield takes us on a coast to coast Grow Like a Pro Tour that will include stops in:

Seattle, Washington: April 5 to 6 Novi, Michigan: May 31 to June 1 San Francisco, California: July 26 to 27 Boston, Massachusetts: October 18 to 19 We have fabulous new venues planned that will provide the ideal locations to reach the growing demand of innovative gardeners worldwide! Featuring hundreds of exhibitors, expert advice from leading global experts, interactive displays, seminars, door prizes, free samples and more, the 2014 Indoor Gardening Expos are gearing up for one of the best and biggest years yet. For more information, visit indoorgardenexpo.com

GetBoosted on Facebook Many growers have already liked the GetBoosted Facebook page (facebook.com/GetboostedUK). What about you? If you like our Facebook page, you have a chance to win one of our cool, limited edition CANNA bikes!* All you have to do is visit the Facebook page and click on the ‘like’ button. Want some more information about CANNABOOST? Visit canna-uk.com *Open to UK residents only.

Gorilla Grow Tents Now Available in France and the United Kingdom Gorilla Grow Tent is proud to announce that their tallest, thickest, strongest grow tents can now be found in France and the United Kingdom. International hydroponic retailers are finding that the Gorilla Grow Tents display incredibly well amongst other tents on showroom floors. Gorilla Grow Tent expects to expand distribution to other European retailers in 2014. Gorilla Grow Tent has partnered with international distributors to establish themselves as the most sought-after grow tent in the world of indoor gardening. For more information, visit gorillagrowtent.com

Mr. & Mrs. BoosT are the experts from CANNA who know everything about CANNABOOST. This lovely couple will SOMETIMES LIFE NEEDS A BOOST be travelling around the UK in the last few months of 2013 and are ready for you! They are able to answer all your CANNABOOST questions and might be able to tell you even more about CANG B T M .&M .B T NABOOST. Want to know where they are? Well, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/GetboostedUK and stay up to date on where you can find Mr. & Mrs. BoosT. ET

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*Open to UK residents only.

HOMEbox Announces PAR-optimised Grow Tents Are Your Plants on PAR+? PAR+ is a new smart material exclusive to HOMEbox® used to line their new range of PAR optimised grow tents. Amazingly, it directs more plant-usable energy and less heat at your plants. Growers know, when it comes to growing plants indoors under lights, it’s all about PAR­—photosynthetically active radiation. PAR is a specific band of energy that plants use. It absolutely crucial—driving everything from the production of stems and leaves to buds, flowers and fruit—the more PAR plants receive, the bigger and better your harvest! Independent laboratory tests showed that 91.8% of the growing area in a 1.2 m2 HOMEbox measured 80 PAR W/m2 or more (optimum energy levels for intense indoor growing applications) compared with just 69.4% in a same-sized competitor’s silver grow tent.

HOMEbox PAR+ reflects more plant-usable energy with fewer hot spots and less heat build-up than some competitors’ silverlined grow tents. This promotes even more photosynthesis and increased essential oil production leading to bigger crops of higher quality. For more information, visit homebox.net

Maximum Yield Team Visits UK and European Customers Ilona Hawser, the sales manager of Maximum Yield, along with account executive Katie Montague, recently made the trek to the United Kingdom. Here they are shown visiting with Peter Knobel from Dutchpro. Both Ilona and Katie were thrilled to visit with current and new customers and showcase all the new and upcoming opportunities available with our Maximum Yield global products. To find out more ways you can reach UK and European customers, give us a call at 1-250-729-2677.

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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06-09-13 11:10

MAX-mART

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

visit us

online maximumyield.com Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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Aztec Garden Unit 1A Roughan Ind.Es. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk UK IP30 9ND Tel: +44 (0) 1359 271876 www.aztec-garden.co.uk _____________________________ Basement Lighting Ltd. Unit 3, The Old Maltings, George St. Newark, Nottinghamshire UK NG24 1LU Tel: +44 (0) 1636 650189 Big Stone River Garden Center Unit 1 East Gate Grimsby, Lincolnshire UK DN3 29BA Tel: +44 (0) 1472 241114 Bill & Ben’s Hydro World Unit D15 & D16 Erin Trade Centre Blumpers Way Chippenham, Wiltshire, UK SN14 6LH Tel: +44(0) 1249 447796 Blooming Borders Unit 3, Borders Bus Pk. Longtown Carlisle, Cumbria UK CA6 5TD Tel: +44 (0) 1228 792587 www.bloomingbordersltd.co.uk Bradford Hydroponics 9597 Manningham Ln. Bradford, West Yorkshire UK BD1 3BN Tel: +44 (0) 1274 729205 www.bradfordhydroponics.co.uk Branching Out Unit E, The Old Brewery, Durnford St. Ashton Gate, Bristol UK BS3 2AW Tel: +44 (0) 1179 666996 www.hydroponics-online.co.uk Bright Green UK Ltd. 42-44 Princess Rd., Hull, Yorkshire UK HU5 2RD Tel: +44 (0) 1482 341925 www.brightgreen-uk.co.uk ____________________________

Brit Crops Ltd Unit 9 OJ’s Ind. Pk.Claybank Rd. Portsmouth, Hampshire UK PO3 5SX Tel: +44 (0) 2392 669111 www.britcropshydroponics.co.uk ____________________________ Brite Lite Hydroponics Unit 11 Roman Ind. Es. Croydon, UK CRO 2DT Tel: +44 (0) 2086 834424 www.britelite-hydroponics-uk.com Bub’s allotment The Rural Granary Business Centre Unit 4 North Street Hellingly, East Sussex UK BN27 4DU Tel: +44 (0) 7528 098103 www.bubsallotment.co.uk ____________________________

BudMaster LED 24 Collingwood Ct. Riverside Park Ind. Es. Middlesbrough, UK TS2 1RP Tel: +44 (0) 1642 224544 www.hydroponics-hydroponics.com ____________________________

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

Listed alphabetically by shop name.

____________________________

BudMaster LED Glan Y Mor Rd. Llandudno Junction Conwy.

Gwynedd North Wales, LL31 9RU UK Tel: +44 (0) 1492 583960 ____________________________ Chrissie’s Garden Unit 33 Portsmouth Enterprise Ctr. Quartermain Rd. Portsmouth, UK PO3 5QT Tel: +44 (0) 2392 667887 Clever Green 35 Ketley Bus. Pk. Waterloo Rd., Telford, Shropshire UK TF1 5JD Tel: +44 (0) 1952 257200 www.clevergreen.co.uk Crofters Bio Gardens Unit 2, Bloomsgrove Ind. Es.Ilkeston Rd. Radford, Nottingham UK NG7 3JB Tel: +44 (0) 1159 782345 www.croftersbiogardens.com Discount Hydroponics 1 Bus. Bldg. Waltergrave St. Hastings, East Sussex UK TN34 1SJ Tel: +44 (0) 1424 428186 Eastbourne Hydroponics 47 Upperton Rd. Eastbourne, East Sussex UK BN21 1LT Tel: +44 (0) 1323 732241

Green Daze Hydroponics Ashington Unit 9 Waterside Ct. North Seaton Bus. Pk. Ashington, Northumberland UK NE63 0YG Tel: +44 (0) 1670 818003 www.greendazehydroponics.co.uk Green Daze Hydroponics Gateshead 10 Wellington St. Gateshead, UK NE8 2AJ Tel: +44 (0) 1914 789107 www.greendazehydroponics.co.uk ____________________________

Green Fever 18 Hartsill Rd., Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire, UK ST4 7QU Tel: +44 (0) 1782 414448 www.green-fever.co.uk ____________________________ Green Life 190 Hessle Rd. Hull, East Yorkshire UK HU3 3BE Tel: +44 (0) 1482 222425 ___________________________

Eighteen Twelve Ltd. Unit 11 Whitehall Properties Towngate Wyke, Bradford UK BD12 9JQ Tel: +44 (0) 1274 694444 Elements Hydroponics 44 Auster Rd. Clifton Moor, York UK YO30 4XA Tel: +44 (0) 1904 479979 www.elementshydroponics.com Enhanced Urban Gardening 152 London Rd. Workingham, Berkshire UK RG40 1SU Tel: +44 (0) 1189 890510 www.enhancedurbangardening.co.uk Esoteric Hydroponics Ltd. 8 Martyr Rd. Guildford, Surrey UK GU1 4LF Tel: +44 (0) 1483 596484 www.1-hydroponics.co.uk Future Garden (Chelmsford) 15 Rob Johns Rd., Widford Ind.Est., Essex, Chelmsford CM1 3AG +44 (0) 1245 265929 info@futuregarden.co.uk www.futuregarden.co.uk

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 3 Park Works, 16-18 Park Road, Kingston-Upon-Thames, Surrey, KT2 6BX Tel: +44(0) 208 546 3444 ____________________________

Garden Secrets UK Ltd. Unit 3 Hollybush Est. Whitchurch, Cardiff UK CF14 7DS Tel: +44 (0) 2920 651792 www.gardensecretsuk.co.uk Garforth Hydroponics Back off 11a main street Leeds, UK lS25 1DS www.garforthhydroponics.co.uk Great Stuff Hydroponics 30 C Ellemeres Ct. Leechmere Ind. Es. Sunderland, UK SR2 9UA Tel: +44 (0) 1914 474098 www.hydroponics-hydroponics.com Greater Manchester Hydroponic Garden Unit 3, The Courtyard, 157 Bolton Old Road, Atherton, Manchester, M46 9RE Tel: +44 (0) 1942 884612

Green Spirit Hydroponics Ltd. 8-10 Stanley St. Sheffield, UK S3 8HJ Tel: +44 (0) 1142 753353 www.greenspirit-hydroponics.com ____________________________ Green Stream 12-14 Vivian Rd. Harbourne, Birmingham UK B17 ODS Tel: +44 (0) 1214 262675 www.greenstream.co.uk Green World 1618 Market Vaults Scarborough, UK YO11 1EU Tel: +44 (0) 1723 370900 www.greenworld.ne.uk Greener than Life 575- 577 Holderness Rd. Hull, East Riding UK HU8 9AA Tel: +44 (0) 1482 374201 Greengrass Indoor Gardening Supplies Unit 5A Alexander Ct. Hazleford Way Newstead, Nottingham UK NG15 0DQ Tel: +44 (0) 1623 755055 ____________________________

Greenhouse Effect Unit 2 Eagle Farm Cranfield Rd. Wavendon, Milton Keynes UK MK17 8AU Tel: +44 (0) 1908 585283 ____________________________ Greenleaf Systems Unit 26, Millers Bridge Ind. Es., Seymour, Bootle, Liverpool UK L20 1EE Tel: +44 (0) 1519 331113 www.greenleafsystemsmerseyside.co.uk The Green Machine Ltd. Unit 1A., Felin Puleston Ind.Es., Ruabon Rd. Wrexham, UK L13 7RF Tel: +44 (0) 1978 265090 www.thegreenmachineonline.com

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 59 T Marchant Estate, 42-72 Verney Road, South Bermondsey, SE16 3DH Tel: +44 (0) 207 394 0629 ____________________________

Future Garden (Ilford) Unit E., The Acorn Centre Roebuck Rd., Hainault Bus.Pk., Essex, Ilford IG6 3TU +44 (0) 0208 265929 info@futuregarden.co.uk www.futuregarden.co.uk

____________________________

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 38 Silicon Business Centre,28 Wadsworth Road, Perivale,UB6 7JZ Tel: +44 (0) 208 998 2034 ____________________________ GreenKeeper Hydroponics 141 Brook St. Chester Cheshire, UK CH1 3DU Tel: +(44 (0) 1244 630501 ____________________________

Green Spirit Hydroponics Ltd. Unit 6, Rockingham Business Park, Rockingham Row, Birdwell, UK S705TW Tel: +44 (0) 1226 399837 www.greenspirit-hydroponics.com ____________________________

The Green Room (Indoor Gardens) Ltd. Unit 61 Riverside III, Sir Thomas Longley Rd, Medway City Estate Rochester, KENT ME2 4BH Tel: 01634 716764 www.thegreenroomvip.co.uk Greens Horticulture Unit F Totterdown Bridge Est, Albert Rd. St. Philips, Bristol, Somerset UK BS2 0XH Tel: +44 (0) 1179 713000 www. greenshorticulture.co.uk Greenstream Hydroponics 12-14 Vivian Rd. Birmingham, Harbourne UK B17 0DS Tel: +44 (0) 1214 262675 www.greenstream.co.uk ____________________________

Greensea Hydroponics Unit 1G. Gregory Rd. Mildenhall, Bury St. Edmonds, Suffolk UK IP28 7PP Tel: +44 (0) 1638 715350 www.greensea-hydroponics.co.uk ___________________________ Greenthings Hydroponics Unit 1, Adjewhella Chapel Barriper Camborne, Cornwall UK TR14 0QW Tel: +44 (0) 1209 611870 www.greenthings.co.uk

Grotec Hydroponics 393 Manchester Rd., Rochdale, Greater Manchester UK OL11 3PG Tel: +44 (0) 1706 750293 www.grotec.co.uk

GrowinGreen Unit 6, Queens drive industrial estate, Newhall, Swadlincote, DE11 0EG Tel: +44 (0) 1253 675722 www.growingreen.co.uk

Holland Hydroponics Handbridge Mill 5 Parliament St. Burnley, Lancashire UK BB11 5HG Tel: +44 (0) 8458 720590 www.hydroponics.co.uk

Grotech Ltd. Unit 21. Saddlers Hall Farm, London Rd. Basildon, Essex UK SS13 2HD Tel: +44 (0) 1268 799828 www.grotechonline.co.uk

Growing Life #6 Newington Green Rd. London, UK N1 4RX Tel: +44 (0) 2070 339541 www.growing-life.com

The Home Grower Ltd. Unit 8, Oak Court, Crystal Dr. Smethwick, West Midlands UK B66 1QG Tel: +44 (0) 1215 411446 www.thehomegrower.com

Grow 4 Good Ltd. 22i Beehive Workshops Durham, UK DH1 2X1 Tel: +44 (0) 1913 757667 www.grow4good.net

Groworks 94 Upper Wickham Lane Welling, Kent, UK DA16 3HQ Tel: +44 (0) 2088 545160

Huyton Hydroponics & Gardening Supplies Huyton, Mersey Side UK Tel: +44 (0) 1514 820101 www.huytonhydro.co.uk

The Grow Den 2 Hothfield Rd. Rainham, Kent UK ME8 8BJ Tel: +44 (0) 1634 239333 The Grow Den Ltd. Unit 13., Eaves Ct., Eurolink Com.Pk., Bohan Dr. Sittingbourne, Kent UK ME10 3RY Tel: +44 (0) 1795 426264 Grow Green Ltd. 15-17 Green Ln., Castle Bromwich Birmingham, UK B36 0AY Tel: +44 (0) 121 241 6445 Grow Green Trade Ltd. Unit 4 Castle Trading Est. La Grange, Tamwarth, UK B79 7X0 Tel: +44 (0) 1827 62766 Grow Shaw 96-98 Shaw Heath Rd., Stockport, Manchester UK SK3 8BP Tel: +44 (0) 8452 725266 www.growshaw.co.uk Grow Zone UK Unit 7, West Court, Crantock Street Newquay, Cornwall UK TR7 1JL Tel: +44 (0) 1637 806115 www.growzoneuk.com GroSupplies Sovereign House, Ellen Terrace Sulgrave, Washington, Tyne & Wear NE37 3AS Tel: +44 (0) 1914 153345 sales@grosupplies.com www.grosupplies.com GroWell Hydroponics – Coleshill Units 9-11 Coleshill Trade Park Station Road, Coleshill Birmingham B46 1HT Tel: 0845 344 2333 coleshill@growell.co.uk www.growell.co.uk GroWell Hydroponics – Dudley Unit 52 Enterprise Trading Estate Hurst Lane, Dudley DY5 1TX 0845 345 6991 dudley@growell.co.uk www.growell.co.uk GroWell - Fullham 1 Royal Parade 247 Dawes Rd. Fullham, London UK SW6 7RE Tel: +44 (0) 8453 445174 www.growell.co.uk GroWell - Hockley Heath Ivy House Farm, Grange Rd. Hockley Heath, Solihull UK B94 6PR Tel: +44 (0) 8433 571640 hockley@growell.co.uk www.growell.co.uk GroWell - Mail Order Division PO Box 3255 Warwick, UK CV34 5GH Tel: +44 (0) 8453 455177 www.growell.co.uk GroWell Hydroponics – Wembley Brent Trading Estate North Circular Road, London NW10 0JF 0843 357 1642 coleshill@growell.co.uk www.growell.co.uk

Groworks Unit F16 Northfleet Industrial Estate Lower Road, Gravesend, UK DA11 9SW Tel: +44 (0) 1273 624327 Groworks Unit 4 Belltower Industrial Estate Roedean Road, Brighton, UK BN2 5RU Tel: +44 (0) 1322 838131 Hackney Hydroponics 265 Wick Rd., London, UK E9 5DG Tel: +44 (0) 2085 330497 www.mile-end-hydroponic.co.uk Happy Daze Hydroponics Unit 4 Craven Court Hedon Rd. Hull, UK HU9 1NQ Tel: +44 (0) 1482 224299 www.happydazehull.com ____________________________

The Grow Home Hydroponics Unit 26 Bolney Grange Ind.Pk., Burgess Hill West Sussex RH17 5PB +44 (0) 1444 244414 thegrowhome@hotmail.co.uk www.first4hydroponics.com ____________________________ Happy Gardens Ltd. Unit 9, Kelham Bank Ind Es., Kelham St. Doncaster, South Yorkshire UK DN1 3RE Tel: +44 (0) 1302 761386 Haverhill Hydroponics Centre Unit 14 Spring Rise Falconer Road Haverhill, Suffolk CB97XU Tel:+44 (0) 01440709474 www.haverhillhydro.co.uk The Head Gardener Unit 11, Barton Bus. Pk. Eccles, Manchester UK M3O OQR Tel: +44 (0) 1617 079860 www.theheadgardner.net HFM Pyrotechnics Ltd. 165A Londford Rd. Cannock, Staffordshire UK WS11 OLD Tel: +44 (0) 1543 500800 www.hfmgroup.com Hi9THC Unit 3. Rope Walk,. Coach Rd. Whitehaven, Cumbria UK CA28 7TE Tel: +44 (0) 7821 914646 www.hi9thc.co.uk High Street Hydroponics Unit 56 Hebden R., Berkley Ind.Es., Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire DN15 8DT Tel: +44(0) 1724 857191 Holland Hydroponics 17 Rondin Rd., Ardwick, Greater Manchester UK M12 6BF Tel: +44 (0) 8458 720570 www.hydroponics.co.uk Holland Hydroponics Express Unit 4 Leeds Rd. Trade Park. Leeds Rd., Huddersfield, UK HD2 1YR

Hydro 1 Stop Unit 35 Deykin Pk. Ind. Es. Deykin Ave. Aston, Birmingham UK B67HN Tel: +44 (0) 1213 280876 www.hydro1stop.co.uk Hydro Hobby Unit 4 Brook Farm, Stoneleigh Rd. Gibbet Hill, Coventry UK CV4 7AB Tel: +44 (0) 2476 414161 www.hydrohobby.co.uk Hydro Station Ltd. Unit 10 Hillfoot Ind. Es. Hoyland Rd. Sheffield, South Yorkshire UK S38AB Tel: +44 (0) 1142 491636 www.hydrostationltd.co.uk Hydrodragon Ltd. 113-115 Alfred St. Roath Cardiff, South Glamorgan UK CF24 4UA Tel: +44 (0) 2920 490333 www.hydrodragon.co.uk Hydroglo Ltd. The Top Store South Rd., Towerhamlets Dover, Kent UK CT17 OAH Tel: +44 (0) 1304 203199 Web: www.hydroglowltd.co.uk Hydrogrow Systems Ltd. Unit 7, Acton Bus. Pk., Fields Farm Rd. Longeaton, Nottingham UK NG10 3FZ Tel: +44 (0) 1159 730007 Web: www.hydrogrowsystems.co.uk Hydrolite UK Ltd. 215 Denman St., Radford, Nottingham UK NG7 3PS Tel: +44 (0) 1159 785556 www.hydrolite.co.uk Hydroponic Corporation Unit 20, Deeside Ind. Es., Zone 1 Deeside, Flintshire UK SH5 2LR Tel: +44 (0) 1244 289699 www.t-h-c.biz The Hydroponic Warehouse Unit 15., Bay Airport Ind.Es., Kingston Pk. Newcastle, Tyne and Wear UK NE3 2EF Tel: +44 (0) 1912 862045 www.thehydroponicwharhouse.co.uk Hydroponica Ltd. 130 Doncaster Rd. Wakefield, Yorkshire UK WF1 5JF Tel: +44 (0) 1924 362888 www.hydroponica.biz Hydroponics.com Unit 24, Port Talbot Business Units Addison Rd Port Talbot, UK SA12 6HZ Tel: +44 (0) 1639 888891 www.hydroponicsdotcom.com

Hygro Hydroponics Unit C -55 Sunningdale Road, South Park Industrial Estate, Scunthorpe Lincs, UK DN17 2TW

Mousehold Garden Center 63 Mousehold Ln. Norwich, Norfolk UK NR7 8HP Tel: +44 (0) 1603 413272

Hylton Hydro Rockington Nursery Blackness Rd. Sunderland, UK SR4 7XT Tel: 01 9155 18453

Mr. Beam Hydro Rose Grove Selby Rd. Askern, Doncaster UK DN6 0ES Tel: +44 (0) 1302 708297 www.mr-beam-hydro.com

Hytec Horticulture Old Wales Wood Colliery, Mansfield Rd. Sheffield, UK S26 5PQ Tel: +44 (0) 1909 772872 www.hytechorticulture.co.uk The Inner Garden Ltd. Unit 14., Cornish Wy., West, Galmington Taunton, Somerset UK TA1 5NA Tel: +44 (0) 1823 274791 Junction 10 Hydro Unit 55, Owen Road Industrial Estate Willenhall, WV13 2PX Tel: +44 (0) 1215 686850 www.j10hydro.com Kernow Grow Ltd. 11 D. Kernick Ind. Es. Penryn, Cornwall UK TR10 9EP Tel: +44 (0) 3300 104420 www.kernowgrow.co.uk King Of Green 18-24 Saint Helens Rd., Westcliff on Sea Westcliff, Essex UK SS0 7LB Tel: +44 (0) 1702 347536 www.kingofgreen.com Kitbag Hydroponic Warehouse 22 Pool Bank St. Nunaeton, Warwickshire UK CV11 5DB Tel: +44 (0) 2476 641033 ebaystores.co.uk/kitbagshop Lancaster Hydroponics Unit 18 Lansil Ind.Es., Caton Rd. Lancaster, Lancashire UK LA1 3PQ Tel: +44 (0) 7961 279279 www.lancasterhydroponics.co.uk Leeds HydroStore Unit 5 Felnex Rd. Leeds, West Yorkshire UK LS9 0SS Tel: +44 (0)113 249 4730 www.leedshydrostore.co.uk Lothian Hydroponics 172 S Mid St. Bathgate, West Lothian UK EH48 1DY Tel: +44 (0) 1506 650501 Makes Sense Grow Shop The Annex Rear of #20, Barden Rd. Tonbridge, Kent UK TN9 1TX Tel: +44 (0) 1732 507201 www.makessencesrowshop.co.uk Manchester Hydroponics Unit 1A, Reliance St. Newton Heath, Manchester UK M40 3AG Tel: +44 (0) 1616 887333 www.manchesterhydroponics.co.uk manchesterhydroponics@yahoo.co.uk Matilda’s Planet 1 Green Pl. Kenfig, South Wales UK Tel: +44 (0) 7895 567843 dale.hudd@grg.com Mellow Yellow Hydro Ltd. Unit B1A Towngate Works., Dark Ln. Mawdesley, Lancashire UK L40 2QU Tel: +44 (0) 1704 822609 www.mellowyellowhydro.co.uk

Hydropower 300 Holton Rd. Barry, Vale Of Glamorgan UK CF63 4HW Tel: +44 (0) 7725 551479 www.hydro-power.biz

Midland Hydroponics Russells Garden Centre Baginton Coventry UK CV8 3AG Tel: +44 (0) 2476 639109 midhydroponic@aol.com www.maidland-hydroponics.com

Hydrosense 47 Scarrots Ln. Newport, Isle of Wright UK PO30 1JD Tel: +44 (0) 1983 522240

Midnight Garden 6 Howlbeck Rd., Guisborough, UK TS14 6LE Tel: +44 (0) 79333 449661

New Age Hydroponics Unit 1 Albert Pl., Albert Mill Lower Darwen, Lancashire UK BB3 OQE Tel: +44 (0) 1254 661177 New Leaf Hydroponics 1 Horsewater Wynd, Hawkhill, Dundee UK DD1 5DU Tel: +44 (0) 1382 202556 www.newleafhydroponics.co.uk Norfolk Lights & Hydroponics Centre Ltd. Unit 2 Guardian Rd., Ind. Es. Norwich, Norfolk UK NR5 8PF Tel: +44 (0) 1603 666199 www.norfolklights.com Northwich Hydroponics Centre Ltd. Unit-7, Kingfisher Court, Denton Dr., Northwich Cheshire UK CW9 7TT Tel: +44 (0)1606 215 585 NuGreen Hydroponics Unit 4 Stirchley Trad. Es., Hazelwell Rd. Stirchley, Birmingham UK B3O 2PF Tel: +44 (0) 1216 855900 www.nugreenhydroponics.co.uk One Stop Grow Shop Unit 8, Fenton Ind. Es., Dewsbury Rd. Fenton, Stroke-On-Trent UK ST4 2TE Tel: +44 (0) 1782 212000 www.onestopgrowshop.co.uk The Persy Grow Shop 4 Kings Mews.

Brighton, East Sussex UK BN3 2PA Tel: +44 (0) 1273 777335 www.persygrowbox.co.uk The Plant Pot 69 Ratcliffe Gate, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire UK NG18 2JB Tel: +44 (0) 1623 422711 www.theplantpot.co.uk Planet Hydro Unit 11 NorthBridge Works., Storey St. Leicester, Leics UK LE3 5GR Tel: +44 (0) 1162 510800 Plant Life Unit 11, Riverside Wy., Ravensthorpe Ind Es. Dewsbury, West Yorkshire UK WF13 3LG Tel: +44 (0) 1924 492298 www.plantlife.me.uk Plantasia Brill View Farm Ludgershall Rd. Bicester, Oxfordshire UK OX25 1PU Tel: +44 (0) 8707 555225 www.plantasia.co.uk Progrow 5 Westwood Units, Alphinbrook Rd. Marsh Barton Trad. Es. Exeter, Devon UK EX2 8QF Tel: +44 (0) 1392 276998 www.progrow.co.uk ____________________________

Reading Hydroponics Unit 15 Albury Close Redding, Berkshire UK RG30 1BD +44 (0)11 8 939 4998 ____________________________ Rootzone Hydroponics Ltd. Unit 2 & 3., The Green Bus.Ctr., The Causeway Staines, Middlesex UK TW18 3AL Tel: +44 (0) 1784 490370 www.hydrowebshop.com

Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

81

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Sale Hydro 71 Dane Rd., Sale Manchester, Lancashire UK M33 7BP Tel: +44 (0) 1619 739899 Email: care@salehydroponics.co.uk Sea of Green UK 25 Eastcott Hill Swindon, Wiltshire UK SN1 3JG Tel: +44 (0) 1793 617046 www.seaofgreen.co.uk ____________________________

Somerset Hydro Unit4 Technine, Guard Ave Houndstone Business Park Yeovil Somerset BA22 8YE Tel: +44 (0) 1935 420720 www.somhydro.co.uk ____________________________ South Coast Hydroponics Unit 8., Enterprise Ind. Es., Enterprise Rd. Horndean, Portsmouth UK PO8 0BB Tel: +44 (0) 2392 598853 www.southcoasthydroponics.com Southern Hydro Centre 9 Mamesbury Rd. Southampton, Hampshire UK S01 SFT Tel: +44 (0) 2380 704080 www.southernhydro.co.uk Southern Lights #1 25 Fratton Rd. Hampshire, UK PO1 5AB Tel: +44 (0) 1705 811822 Southern Lights #2 19A Grace Hill. Folkestone, Kent UK CT20 1HQ Tel: +44 (0) 1303 210003; Tel: +44 (0) 1303 252561

St Albans Hydroponics Unit 5 London Rd., Bus.Pk., 222 London Rd. St Albans, UK AL1 1PN Tel: +44 (0) 1727 848595 www.stalbanshydroponics.moonfruit.com Starlite Systems 226 Albert Rd., Plymouth, Devon UK PL2 1AW Tel: +44 (0) 1752 551233 www.starlitesystems.co.uk

Listed alphabetically by shop name.

U Grow London Studio12, Imperial Studios, 3-11 Imperial Rd. London, UK SW6 2AG, Tel: +44 (0) 2073 843388 www.ugrow.com

Abergreen Horticulture Ltd Arch 8 Palmerston Rd. Aberdeen, Granpian Scotland AB11 5RE Tel: +44 (0) 1224 574737 www.abergreen.co.uk

Warehouse Hydroponics Bank Quay Trading Est., Slutchers Ln. Warrington, Cheshire UK WA1 1PJ Tel: +44 (0) 1925 637837 www.warehousehydroponics.co.uk

Edinburgh Organics 6C W. Telferton Edinburgh, Scotland EH7 6UL Tel: +44 (0) 131 669 0493

ireland

Sub-Garden Supplies 45-J Leyton Industrial Village, Argall Ave., Leyton, London UK E10 7QP Tel: +44 (0) 2085 39956 Sunrise Hydroponics 127 Newcastle St., Burslem.

Stoke on Trent, Staffshire UK ST6 3QJ Tel: +44 (0) 1782 813814 www.sunrisehydro.co.uk Thetford Urban Gardens Ltd. 25 Brunel Way, Thetford, Norfolk, UK IP24 1HP Tel: +44 (0) 7780 232169 thetford.urbangardens@hotmail.co.uk www.thetford-urban-gardens.com

Culture Indoor Island 37 Eyre St. Newbridge County Kildare Ireland Tel: +35 (0)45 437639 www.bloomandgrow.ie Culture Indoor Island 4-A Slaney Court. Dublin Ind.Est Glasnevin Dublin Island Dublin 11 Ireland Tel: +35 (0)18 603917 www.bloomandgrow.ie Northern Lights 9 Dunluce St. Larne Antrim, Northern Ireland BT40 1JG Tel: +44 (0) 2828 278485 www.northernlightsni.com The Grow Shop 14 Brews Hill , Nauan, Co. M Fath Ireland OLI Tel: +44 (0) 1772 204455 www.thc.ie

Toddington Hydroponics Center Griffin Farm Unit 9., Toddington Dunstable, Bedford UK LU5 6BT Tel: +44 (0) 1582 664765 www.toddingtonhydroponics.co.uk

scotland

Triangle Hydroponics Unit 6 Bornemouth Central business park.

South Cote Rd. Bornemouth BH1 3SJ Tel: +44 (0) 1202 556661 www.trianglehydroponics.co.uk

Progrow Scotland Unit 6., Nasmyth Square Houston Ind.Es. Livingston, West Lothian Scotland EH5 45GG Tel: +44 (0) 1506 430830 www.progrowscotland.co.uk

Kingdom Hydroponics Unit #12 Carbery Pl., Mitchelson Ind. Es. Kirkcaldy, Fife Scotland KY1 3NE Tel: +44 (0) 1592 655611 ____________________________

Hamilton Hydro Ltd. Unit 13&16 Murray Court, Hillhouse Industrial Estate, Hamilton Scotland ML3 9SL +44 (0) 1698281148 ____________________________ Hydra Hydroponics 41 Tower St., Edinburgh, Scotland EH6 7BN Tel: +44 (0) 1315 611332 www.hydraonline.co.uk Glasgrow 15 Parnie St. Glasgow, Scotland G15RJ Tel: +44 (0) 1415 527522 www.glasgrowhydroponics.co.uk EZ Grow Perth 77 Scott St. Perth, Scotland PH2 8JR Tel: +44 (0) 7521 59730

U-Grow Organic Unit 11 North Canal Bank St., Port Dundas, Glasgow Scotland G4 9XP Tel: +44 (0) 1413 413352 info@u-grow.com www.u-grow.com

hungary BABYLON grow Csurgói street 15., Budapest, Pest megye Hungary Tel: +36 (0) 20 381 2802 babylon@babylon-grow.eu www.babylon-grow.eu Gomoa Trade Kft. Lágymányosi street 5., Budapest, Pest megye, Hungary 1111 Tel: +36 (0) 20 566 1186 gomoa.net@gmail.com www.gomoa.net Gomoa Trade Kft. Petofi avenue 50.

Szeged, Csongrád megye, Hungary 6725 Tel: +36 (0) 20 406 2182 gomoa.net@gmail.com www.gomoa.net Gomoa Trade Kft. Kazinczy street 3.

Pécs, Baranya megye, Hungary 7621 Tel: +36 (0) 20 351 4294 gomoa.net@gmail.com www.gomoa.net

COMING UP IN January/February 2014 Plant Diet Basics

When gardening, you have to take on certain responsibilities to ensure your plants are healthy and thriving. This includes providing the essential nutrients required for plant growth. Discovering which fertiliser is right can seem complicated, but Matt LeBannister breaks it down to the basics.

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The Science Behind Light

Growing Media Options

All gardens are different, but the laws of physics apply to them all. Eric Hopper discusses the ways horticultural lighting is affected by the laws of physics to help those designing or assessing an indoor garden.

The two most common types of growing media used for containers are potting soils and hydroponic media, but there are plenty of alternatives. Grubbycup takes readers on a media tour of the hydroponic kind.

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Maximum Yield | November/December 2013

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