Maximum Yield USA September 2013 by Maximum Yield

USA

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The Automation

Revolution Flowing with the Phloem • Quackuaponics • Taking Control

Maximum Yield’s

LONG BEACH

CALIFORNIA OCTOBER 26-27, 2013

maximumyield.com

indoorgardeningexpo.com

110

CONTENTS September 2013

FEATURES 120

134 50 Miracle, Myth or Marketing: Are

Epsom Salts a Garden Cure-All? by Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott

66 Surfactant Solutions by Dr. Lynette Morgan

166

76 Organic Hydroponics by Frank Rauscher

90 Flowing with the Phloem

76 134 Absentee Growing: How to Maximize a Garden’s Growth from Out of Town by Karen Wilkinson

144 Blushing Hydroponic Tomatoes by Raquel Neofit

152 Preparing the Next Patch by Russell Landry

160 Cycling Part II: Staring up an

Aquaponics System without Fish by Sylvia Bernstein

166 Taking Control Using Control Systems by Sanjay Kumar Rajpoot

170 Thinking Green: FreshDirect’s Green Angel Fund

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

144

by Bill DeBoer

100 Perlite Revisited

by Casey Jones Fraser

110 A Closer Look at Carbon Dioxide by Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr.

120 Introducing Quackuaponics by Joseph Hackenberg

DEPARTMENTS 12

From the Editor

142

Tips and Tricks

MaximumYield.com

172

Book Review

Letters to the Editor

173

10 Facts On...

Ask the Experts

174

Talking Shop

MAX Facts

176

You Tell Us

Product Spotlight

182

Max Mart

Avant Gardening

185

Distributors

108

Green Thumb Gardening

201

Do You Know

118

Growing for Health

202

Coming up in October

FROM THE EDITOR | Linda Jesson Fall is fast approaching and with the days getting shorter and shorter and the temperature about to get cooler and cooler, now is a good time to learn about all the latest trends in the indoor gardening industry. That’s why this issue includes articles on enjoying high-quality tomatoes year-round, why you should try growing your next crop in perlite and how an automated growroom can help guarantee results with minimal effort on the part of the grower. We also include information about growing organically in hydroponic systems, starting up an aquaponics system without the fish and how to save seeds if some of your plants are at the end of their life cycles. Bill DeBoer takes readers on a trip through the vascular system of a plant and Joseph Hackenberg introduces us to the world of “quackuaponics”–a combinafrom the tion of aquaponic and hydroponic growing methods that provides an ideal environment for his ducks. To round out the issue, we share the latest products to help you with all of your growing needs and some Linda Jesson interesting industry news, tips and trivia. If you haven’t had the chance to attend one of the stops on Maximum Yield’s Grow Like a Pro Indoor Gardening Tour 2013, there’s still time! The final expo happens October 26 to 27 in Long Beach, California. This world-class event will be a combination indoor gardening and hydro life expo featuring leading experts from the hydro, snow, surf, skate and bike industries. Held at the beautiful Long Beach Convention Centre for the fourth year running, this expo provides an ideal location with the perfect mix of culture and climate. Visit indoorgardenexpo.com for special accommodation rates, exhibitor lists, free VIP tickets and more! In the meantime, enjoy the warm weather while it lasts and have fun planning your next indoor crop!

Message Editor

VOLUME 14 – NUMBER 6 September 2013 Maximum Yield is published 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 Printed In Canada PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson editorial editor@maximumyield.com Editor-in-chief Linda Jesson Assistant Editor Julie McManus Assistant Editor Jennifer McGarrigle 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 Taylor Doyle - taylor@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 Ava Seimens - ar@maximumyield.com USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations • BWGS • General Hydroponics Humbolt Wholesale • Hydrofarm National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply • Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply • R&M Supply • Tradewinds CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group • Biofloral • Eddis Wholesale • Greenstar Plant Products Inc. • MegaWatt • Quality Wholesale UK DISTRIBUTION Direct Garden Supplies • Growth Technology • Future Harvest Development Europe • Dutch Bio Power Nutriculture UK • Dutch Pro • Maxigrow AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Dome Garden Supply • House N Garden • Futchatec • Growth Technology

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

contributors Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B.

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.

Frank Rauscher is a certified 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 analyzing plant stress and finding solutions exciting. He is very much at home bringing new ideas to the field of horticulture and indoor gardening.

Sylvia Bernstein is the author of Aquaponic Gardening: A Step by Step Guide to Growing Fish and Vegetables Together. She is also the president of The Aquaponic Source, and the cofounder and past vice chairman of the Aquaponics Association. Before discovering aquaponics, she was the vice president of marketing and product development for AeroGrow International.

Joseph Hackenberg is an avid

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50

Sanjay Kumar Rajpoot is a physicist,

Karen Wilkinson works for EZ-

Raquel Neofit is a freelance writer

Casey Jones Fraser owns Garden

Russell Landry is the former vice

Bill DeBoer is a laboratory scientist at Indiana-based steadyGROWpro. A master gardener intern, Bill is responsible for the company’s laboratory operations, including the design and execution of research projects, plant propagation, seed germination and overall plant care. Bill has a BS and MS from Purdue University, and was previously a research technician for the US Department of Agriculture.

gardener with an interest in the environment. He owns and operates a small business in the building industry. A keen tinkerer, Joe likes to build or develop things beyond what can be sourced from the store. His knowledge of aquaponics and hydroponics is largely self-taught and he dreams of one day enjoying life on a small acreage.

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 currently lives in Anderson, SC, USA.

CLONE Enterprises, Inc., as its social media editor. She came to them with a background in journalism and technical writing and is learning to grow, clone and write for the hydroponics community. She’s a budding gardener and loves growing her own vegetables.

chemical and nanotechnology engineer. He is also an economist, an artist, an MMA enthusiast and the founder of Sustainable MicroFarms: the producers of the cheap and easy to use Genesis controller. He loves teaching and can be reached at sanjay@smicrofarms.com

Grove Organics in northern Kentucky/ Greater Cincinnati. 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.

for the horticulture, travel and lifestyle industries. She has a background in business and radio, and is an avid believer that hydroponics is the future. Follow Raquel’s writing on her blog, Black Thumbs Guide to Growing Green—the misadventures of the vertical herb gardening movement— and My Food Story on Facebook.

president of the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth and its competitive weigh-off sites held worldwide. He is now the current president of the Giant Vegetable Growers of Ontario (gvgo.ca). Russ grows giant pumpkins, tomatoes and squash. He has written numerous articles featuring methods to increase vegetable size and fruit yield.

Become a Maximum Yield contributor and have your articles read by 250,000 readers throughout USA, Canada, UK, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Maximum Yield is the largest free-to-consumer indoor gardening magazine in the world. Every issue is available on maximumyield.com, which has thousands of unique visitors monthly.

COMING UP ON THE WEB Get Free VIP Passes to the Long Beach Expo

There is only one more stop on the 2013 Maximum Yield Indoor Gardening Grow Like a Pro Expo tour. So, be sure to join us in Long Beach, California, on October 26 to 27— whether you’re a new or experienced gardener, this show will offer something for everyone. Stay tuned to indoorgardenexpo.com where you'll soon be able to download and print free passes to Sunday's public day.

Compatible with Hand-held Devices

No matter which smartphone or tablet you own, loading up your digital copies of Maximum Yield will now be possible thanks to multiple software upgrades and improvements. Readers can view their digital copies of Maximum Yield in even more places!

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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

E-News Archives

Every month, Maximum Yield sends out an electronic newsletter containing indoor gardening industry tidbits to our followers. We also keep all of that information posted on enews.maximumyield.com in case you ever miss something.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Seventh I’m a Fan Winner Announced

Shawn Curry from Houston, Texas, is the seventh winner of Maximum Yield’s I’m a Fan Contest! Shawn said, “Your magazine is what got me first interested in growing and gardening. Using the information I read in your magazine has gotten me to experiment with many different growing techniques. It has also gotten me to think outside of the box when it comes to growing plants. To me growing is more than a hobby; it also Shawn Curry is therapeutic. At age 20 I enlisted in the army infantry. I was in the third infantry division and in the initial invasion of Iraq. In 2004, I was honorably discharged from the army and for the last eight years I’ve been dealing with PTSD. I found that gardening and taking care of plants, experimenting with different ways of growing, has a calming effect that I don’t get from any other activity. I’m glad that two years ago I found your magazine because it is helping change my life for the better. Thank you.”

Best in Class

The information I get out of your mag is the best in the business. I've been gardening outside for 25-plus years and I really just love this mag. The products, the people, just awesome. Thank you, Maximum Yield.” John, Concord, New Hampshire

Great Information

Hi, I love reading the mag online; you have great, informative articles. I also like to see the newest products available to the public. Keep doing what you are doing and keep up the good work. Peter, San Diego, California

Keeping it Real

I'm a fan of Maximum Yield because you support all of your information with sound science. Ian, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Thank you for sharing you story with us, Shawn, and congratulations on winning Maximum Yield’s seventh I’m a Fan contest! We hope you enjoy your $100 gift certificate at your favorite indoor gardening shop, Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply. Tell us why you’re a fan of Maximum Yield and you could be the next winner. Visit maximumyield.com for full contest details.

Always a Pleasure

Thanks for the follow! We always enjoy reading your magazine when we get our copy. Micro Maxx Organics, via Twitter @wallytothemax

Reader Tip on Selling at Farmers' Markets We sell mostly organic heirloom tomatoes and peppers. Heirlooms are fragile. We harvest produce into plastic bins with holes drilled in the bottoms, rinse in the same plastic bins, and take to market in same plastic bins. We then remove from plastic bins into plastic pints and as people buy, dump into a brown paper bag. Everything is sterilized in between markets using hot water and steam (no soap). Christian Flickinger, via Facebook 18

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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

ASK The Experts

I am planning to grow ginger in hydroponics. Can you please let me know which nutrients I should provide for the crop and how I should go about adding these nutrients to the system? Also, what type of yields should I be expecting? Finally, I would also like to know how many nutrients should be used for feeding a 10-ft. long by 1-ft. wide area of ginger in a drip irrigation system. Many thanks!

Ginger grows extremely well hydroponically gan r o M e and there has t t Dr. Lyne been a number of research trials investigating the best methods of production as well as plant nutrition. A good hydroponic growing medium to use would be deep bags (at least 1-ft. deep) or containers of perlite mixed with coconut fiber with nutrients drip irrigated on several times a day and allowed to fully drain between nutrient applications. The nutrient solution for ginger should contain the following approximate levels of elements: nitrogen 170 to 180ppm, phosphorus 110 to 120 ppm, potassium 200 to 240 ppm, calcium 220 to 230 ppm, magnesium 40 to 55 ppm, iron 4 to 6 ppm, manganese 3 ppm, zinc 0.25 ppm, boron 0.70 ppm, copper 0.07 ppm and molybdate 0.06 ppm. The ideal EC is 2.5 and pH should be within the range of 5.8 to 6.2. If you are growing on a small scale you can use hydroponic pre-mixed products like a general purpose grow formulation at an EC of 2.5 for the first two to three months, then switch to a fruiting formulation (higher in potassium and calcium) during the rhizome development stage. Ginger requires warm growing conditions of 71 to 86°F, with some slight shading under high light. Under these conditions, ginger should produce harvestable rhizomes in eight to nine months. Long day length is beneficial with 16 hours being ideal. The plants will also require hilling or earthing up during development of the rhizomes; in hydroponics this just means adding more growing medium to the top of the grow beds or bags that will help the rhizomes expand upwards and increase size and uniformity of shape. The yields obtained from hydroponic ginger are dependant on a number of factors, not just the fact that the plants are grown in a hydroponic system. Climate, temperatures, light, size of seed rhizome, cultivar, planting density and length of time the crop has been grown for determine yield more than growing method used. Under ideal greenhouse conditions of temperature (71 to 86°F), day length (16-plus hours),

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

nutrition, watering, and with a good-sized seed rhizome from suitable commercial cultivars (at least 4 oz. in weight for each seed piece), researchers have obtained yields of between three to six pounds per square foot of greenhouse hydroponic grow bed area after a nine- to 10-month growing season (plant spacing was 1 ft. between plants and 1.5 ft. between rows). Yields, however, can be lower than this if growing conditions are not ideal or if disease causes rot of the rhizomes before they are harvested. Ginger is prone to bacterial wilt, soft rot and erwinia rot, although starting with a clean hydroponic system and high-quality water helps prevent (but not eliminate) the risk of these. Yield is also dependant on cultivar grown and only virus-free and disease-free seed rhizomes should be planted. The amount of nutrient solution to apply to the ginger crop depends on the size of the plants; watering will increase as the plants get larger, and also depends on the growing conditions. Warmer conditions means the plants need more water and nutrients per day, and a higher rate of irrigation is used compared to cooler or more humid conditions. For that reason, it is not possible to give exact volumes of water and nutrients to be given each day; this has to be determined by the grower based on the growing conditions that day, how much water the crop is using under those conditions, and other factors such as the rate of drainage from the growing medium in the beds or bags. As a general guide with drip-irrigated hydroponic crops, enough nutrients should be applied at each irrigation so that 10% of the volume applied drains out the base of the growing bed or bag (placing a shallow container underneath the drainage holes allows the grower to measure the amount of nutrient solution draining out after each irrigation). The frequency of irrigation needs to be decided based on how damp the growing medium remains between each irrigation. In hot climates with a mature crop, irrigation may be as frequent as six to nine times a day, while very small plants may only be irrigated one to three times a day depending on temperatures and other climatic factors. Dr. Lynette Morgan Suntec Int. Hydroponic Consultants

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Watermelon Benefits After the tomato, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is the number two vegetable in the world for cultivated surface and total production. Watermelon has been identified as a healthy food for its high content of lycopene and other antioxidant compounds. The amino acid L-citrulline helps regulate blood pressure and can serve as a source of arginine. Watermelon is also rich in citrulline, the content of which can vary according to the cultivar and the growing environment. (Source: freshplaza.com)

MAXFACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia Raisin Grower Takes on the Government Raisin grower Marvin Horne has been breaking the law for 11 years now. He owes the United States government $650,000 in unpaid fines and 1.2 million pounds of raisins (equal to four years of harvest). The crime he is guilty of committing is part of a 64-year-old farm program known as the national raisin reserve that allows the government to intercede in the supply and demand of dried grapes. In a given year, the government may decide that farmers are growing more raisins than Americans will want to eat. That would cause supply to outstrip demand. Raisin prices would drop. And raisin farmers might go out of business. To prevent this from happening the government takes a percentage of raisins from each farmer, often with no payment. Since 2002 Marvin has refused to take part in the reserve scheme. (Source: southcoasttoday.com)

Protecting Strawberries Using Bumble Bees Scientists have come up with a novel way of using bumble bees to deliver minute quantities of biofungicide to strawberry flowers. The process, still in the experimental stage, involves bees moving through a specially designed dispenser that fits into a hive. As the bees move through the dispenser, a minute quantity of a powdered formulation of the bio-fungicide containing Gliocladium catenulatum adheres to their bodies and legs. As they leave the hive and begin pollinating, they transfer the powder directly to the flowers, allowing a very precise application of this bio-fungicide throughout flowering. The bio-fungicide, which is itself a fungus, competes for living space with gray mold on the flower parts, preventing the latent flower infection that causes fruit to rot. (Source: internationalsupermarketnews.com)

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

How Solar-friendly is your State? Solar power’s progress has been strong in the United States lately, but there can be a huge difference in solar-friendliness from state to state. Some have good net-metering policies, others don’t. Same for tax credits, rebates, interconnection regulations, etc. With this many states and this many variables, it can be a huge headache to figure out what’s going on and how state X compares to state Y. But thanks to SolarPowerRocks it’s now a piece of cake to figure out which states are getting it right. Currently Massachusetts is the top ranking state for solar-power friendliness, followed by Maryland and New York. (Source: solarpowerrocks.com)

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Seed Banks Essential With fewer than a dozen flowering plants out of 300,000 species accounting for 80% of humanity’s caloric intake, people need to tap unused plants to feed the world in the near future, claims Cornell University plant geneticist Susan McCouch. To keep pace with population growth and rising incomes around the world, researchers estimate that food availability must double in the next 25 years. The biodiversity stored in plant gene banks coupled with advances in genetics and plant breeding may hold the keys for meeting the demands of more food in the face of climate change, soil degradation and water and land shortages. “Gene banks hold hundreds of thousands of seeds and tissue culture materials collected from farmers’ fields and from wild, ancestral populations, providing the raw material that plant breeders need to create crops of the future,” says Susan. (Source: sciencedaily.com)

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Improving Drought Tolerance Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have found a new drought-protecting chemical that shows high potential for becoming a powerful tool for crop protection in the new world of extreme weather. Named “quinabactin” by the researchers, the chemical mimics a naturally occurring stress hormone in plants that helps the plants cope with drought conditions. It works by affecting a plant’s stomata, which closes firmly during drought to limit water loss. A small hormone called abscisic acid (ABA) orchestrates the opening and closing of the pores. Cells throughout the plant produce increasing amounts of ABA as water levels decrease. If you can control the receptors the way ABA does, then you have a way to control water loss and drought-tolerance, say researchers. (Source: ucr.edu)

Mighty Mangoes Mangoes are among the most popular fruits in the world and provide 100% of your daily vitamin C, 35% of your daily vitamin A and 12% of your daily fiber. They are grown from large trees: a mango tree can grow as tall as 100 ft. and have a canopy as wide as 35. ft. How to you know if your mango is ripe? Don’t judge a mango by its color! Red does not mean ripe. Squeeze gently to judge ripeness. A ripe mango will give slightly and a firm mango will ripen at room temperature over a few days. To speed up ripening, place mangoes in a paper bag at room temperature. Once ripe, mangoes can be moved to the refrigerator to slow down ripening for several days. (Source: mango.org)

Miniature Greenhouses in Classrooms In order to familiarize young people with the intricacies of modern horticulture, and also tempt them to choose horticulture as a career, a new project was launched earlier this year called GreenQ that will provide classrooms in elementary schools with mini-greenhouses. Through these small demonstration greenhouses, students of primary education will come in contact with the most important aspects of growing plants. Different techniques are used in the project, so as to demonstrate a wide range of possibilities. Teachers will introduce special classes and educational material to accompany the project. There is also an instructional video made available by primary school students. (Source: hortidaily.com)

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Plant Compounds Lead to Food Safety Researchers are taking a fresh look at using olive powder and other plant compounds to combat foodborne pathogens and keep food safe to eat. Some of the studies focus on control of microbes such as E. coli that cause foodborne illness and can be formed during cooking of meats. Researchers added high levels of E. coli to ground beef patties along with olive powder or other plant compounds. The meat was cooked to the recommended temperature of 160ºF and then tested. Results showed olive powder outperformed the other powders (apple, onion and garlic). Follow-up studies are needed to pinpoint the compounds in olive powder that are responsible for these effects and to determine whether the amount added in the ground beef experiments alters the hamburger’s taste. (Source: sciencedaily.com)

Desalination for the Nation A recent breakthrough in desalination technology has led to the development of a new method for removing the salts from seawater, one nanoliter at a time. The new method uses a water chip and a small electrical field to separate the salts from the seawater. To achieve desalination, the researchers apply three volts to a plastic chip filled with seawater. The chip contains a microchannel with two branches. At the junction of the channel an embedded electrode neutralizes some of the chloride ions in seawater to create an ion depletion zone that increases the local electric field compared with the rest of the channel. This change in the electric field is sufficient to redirect salts into one branch, allowing desalinated water to pass through the other branch. (Source: treehugger.com)

Funding for Fruits and Veggies The Maryland State Department of Education has awarded $3 million in federal funds to 147 selected Maryland schools. These funds are made available by the USDA and encourage healthy eating habits in children by providing fresh fruits and vegetables to participating schools. Every child enrolled in a participating school will be offered fruit and vegetable snacks regardless of income. (Source: stardem.com)

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT YOUR GUIDE TO THIS MONTH’S

HOTTEST ITEMS Ask for them at your local indoor gardening store Keep it Cool with a Utopian Portable A/C Easily control temperature and humidity indoors with a Utopian Portable A/C. This 12,000 BTU unit uses a self-evaporative condensation system to efficiently cool rooms up to 550 sq ft. With three circulation levels, a dual-hose intake and exhaust system, and a dehumidifying feature capable of removing more than 7 gal. of water from the air each day, the UL-listed portable A/C is a convenient, economical way to keep cool and dry. Find a local retailer for more information.

Aquatic Life Introduces CO2 Regulator with Lighted Solenoid Valve Aquatic Life has introduced a new high-pressure CO2 regulator that incorporates a lighted solenoid valve to indicate when CO2 is flowing. The needle valve adjustment makes it easier to regulate the amount of CO2 flowing through the system. Unlike most CO2 regulators that use a barb fitting to attach tubing, Aquatic Life’s CO2 regulator uses a compression fitting to securely lock the flexible tubing in place. Additionally, the compact size of the CO2 regulator makes it easy to place in limited spaces. Find further details at an indoor gardening store in your area.

Mother Earth Coco Mother Earth® Coco substrate contains the highest quality mix of coco pith and coco fiber. Mother Earth Coco is RHP certified and is free from chemical additives. Mother Earth Coco is buffered using a unique process of rinsing with calcium before bagging to provide minimal sodium content, balancing the naturally occurring potassium and ultimately aiding in the prevention of nutrient lockout. As it is pH adjusted to a neutral 6.3 to 6.8, Mother Earth Coco can aid in the promotion of strong root growth, populate microbial activity, discourage disease and insect outbreak and will release nutrients evenly so that overall plant health and fruit production can be maximized. Mother Earth Coco is great as a standalone growing substrate or you can mix with other media to enhance the growing environment. For an optimal hydroponic media, combine Mother Earth Coco with Mother Earth Hydroton™ for increased production. Visit a retail store to learn more.

SuperCloset’s LED SuperNova Hydroponic Grow Box SuperCloset has added its new LED hydroponic grow box, the LED SuperNova, to its suite of hydroponics systems and its grow cabinet product line. The LED SuperNova is among the largest grow boxes on the market today standing at 78-in. high by 42-in. wide by 24-in. 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 thick 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 the electricity as a 600-W HID light while producing similar luminous efficiency. For more information, inquire at a local grow store.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT RhizoFlora Terpinator Terpinator is the newest creation from RhizoFlora that is the one and only product of its kind, formulated to increase the concentration of terpinoids in aromatic plant oils and glands. Plants that produce flavorful oils have a unique chemistry that manufacturers have captured through a patented scientific process. By using naturally occurring plant and biological compounds, unique enzymatic pathways within a plant’s body are utilized to enhance the production of terpinoids and plant oils. Many herbs like sage, mint, rosemary and others have trichomes that contain terpinoids. These glands are brought to their maximum potential and size using Terpinator along with any nutrient regiment. Terpinator also catalyzes steps in a plant’s normal metabolism that will protect and prolong the fragrances of your plant’s dried fruits and flowers. For more information, visit a local gardening store.

Actinovate SP Actinovate® SP is a powerful biological fungicide that effectively fights foliar diseases in your greenhouse. Use Actinovate SP for foliar diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. The active ingredient inside Actinovate SP is a micro-organism called Streptomyces lydicus strain WYEC 108. When applied to foliage, this microbe effectively disrupts fungal pathogens that may harm your plants. Actinovate SP is also a great tool for fighting root diseases including phytophthora, phythium, rhizoctonia and more. For more information, stop by a local gardening store.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Active Eye Quantum PAR Meter The Quantum PAR Meter from Active Eye measures photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) flux in wavelengths ranging from the 400 to 700 nm. This fully portable hand-held light meter measures up to 10,000 in units of micro-mol, which is also called phothosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD). The response curve is almost constant (versus Gaussian for digital meters) that yields a much higher accuracy independent of wavelength being measured, which is great for measuring LED light correctly. The Quantum PAR Meter comes with a USB cable for easy data logging and data logging software, and features ultra-low power consumption with a builtin low-battery indicator. Visit a local retailer for more information.

RAW B-Vitamin

Sunleaves Mini Light Stand

RAW B-Vitamin contains 1% vitamin B1 and is fully water soluble. This individualization allows the gardener maximum control and precise custom formulation, resulting in both the plants and the gardener getting exactly what they want. RAW B-Vitamin provides all gardeners with the power to manage three key dynamics of gardening: value, quality and control. Keeping up with the industry’s standards is made easier by simplifying to the basics. For more information, visit a retail store near you.

The Sunleaves Mini Light Stand is the perfect size for propagation lighting, measuring in at 2.6 in. wide and 3.5 in. tall. Its durable, sturdy steel frame is fitted with rubber feet for extra stabilization, and it supports up to 50 lbs. of equipment. The Mini Light Stand’s components are interchangeable with those of the Sunleaves Light Stand to cover multiple lighting scenarios. Learn more at a retail store near you.

Current Culture H2O’s Under Current The Under Current™ is the system of choice for large-scale and commercial growers around the world. Due to the proven Sub-Current Culture method, the Under Current increases nutrient uptake and efficiency resulting in cost savings, time savings and increased yields. Available in more than 50 completely modular configurations, the Under Current offers growers a quick and convenient way to fill large spaces with fewer overall systems and plant sites. The largest 32-site systems can accommodate up to eight 1000-W lamps hung horizontally all the way up to 41 1,000-W lamps hung vertically. For more information, stop by a local hydroponics retail store.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT QUEST Portable Dehumidifiers QUEST Portables are the perfect dehumidifiers for the grower wanting flexibility and convenience. Ideal for growers looking for a little extra capacity at the most critical peaks of the grow cycle, a temporary supplemental dryer or the flexibility of a product that can be easily moved to various rooms when needed, the QUEST PowerDry 1300, RDS 10 and PowerDry 4000 Pro Portable Dehumidifiers are the answer. While the QUEST PowerDry 1300 and RDS 10 are high performing and efficient, removing 8 gal. and 10 gal. respectively (80°/60%RH), and will solve almost any humidity issue, the QUEST PowerDry 4000 is the solution for large-scale growers with more than 22 gal. of capacity. The PowerDry 1300 and RDS 10 are constructed of durable dent and scratch resistant ROTO plastic and the PowerDry4000 Pro is constructed of rugged, non-corrosive stainless steel. For further information, visit a local retail store.

Vital Cal-Mag Vital Garden Supply is excited to release the long-awaited Vital CalMag. Vital Cal-Mag is an organic, non-chlorine source of calcium and magnesium that won’t kill your beneficial microbes. Vital Cal-Mag allows for stronger plant stalks and branches, contributes to vigorous root system development and strengthens plant tissue (leaves and flowers). This product also increases resistance to pests and disease, increases uptake of phosphorus in plants, promotes photosynthesis, and solubilizes organic compounds such as carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Use Vital CalMag to aid in assimilation of amino acids and cell proteins. Vital Cal-Mag will help make your overall gardening experience a huge success. Look for Vital Cal-Mag at your favorite garden or farm supply store today. 40

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Control Water Circulation with an Elemental H2O Pump Rely on an Elemental H2O pump for your water circulation needs. With models rated from 97 to 1110 gph, there’s one for any application, from hobbyist to commercial. Featuring waterproof motor casings, durable ceramic shafts, corrosion-resistant housing and a one-year warranty, these UL-listed pumps are built for durability. The five largest pumps can be operated inline or submerged, while the two smallest pumps are submersible only. Visit a retail store for more information.

Coming Soon: Neutralizer Compact Kit Synergy UK Ltd. is excited to announce the arrival of the Neutralizer Compact Kit to the market. To provide hobbyists with a definitive solution to their odor problem, Synergy UK Ltd. has created a compact version of its popular Neutralizer Kit. This compact system features the same benefits as its big brother, but is housed in a smaller cartridge with its own smaller electronic molecule evaporator (EME). The Neutralizer Compact Kit is able to effectively neutralize foul odors within a space of approximately 15 to 20 cubic meters. It is supplied with cable ties to attach to your grow tent’s frame and has the same six-week duration with 24/7 use. Packed with natural essential oils, the Compact Kit is designed to remove odors from within one hour of activation. This is a simple plug-and-play system, yet we prefer to call it “the plug and chill” and it’s coming soon to a retail store near you.

Titan Controls Atlas Series CO2 Controllers Titan Controls® is proud to announce the latest additions to its CO2 controller line, the Atlas®Series models 8 and 9. These straightforward CO2 controllers provide the ultimate control for your indoor garden. The Atlas 8 features a simplistic push button control for your CO2 system. It is compatible with both CO2 regulators and burners. The Atlas 8 also uses fuzzy logic optimized for precise dosing in your garden when using a CO2 regulator. The Atlas 9 highlights easy-touse dials and a 15-ft. remote sensor that accurately keeps the CO2 level exactly where you want it in your garden. Both products are ETL listed and manufactured in durable dust-, rust- and moistureresistant plastic enclosures. For more information, visit an indoor retail store.

Hyperfan Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is pleased to announce the arrival of the Hyperfan™. Best in its class, Hyperfan delivers the highest CFM’s per watt of any fan in the industry. Hyperfan uses next generation Multi-Phase EC Motors that energizes the motor 12 times per revolution. Power delivery to the fan blade is smooth, ultra efficient and vibration free. Hyperfan uses up to half the power and produces much less heat than other mixed flow fans. This results in greatly reduced energy costs, less wear, improved reliability and increased lifespan. Hyperfan produces up to a staggering 2.4 in. of water gauge pressure—the highest pressure of any fan in its diameter— delivering more air movement through ducting, carbon filters or air-cooled hoods. Detachable speed controller is included. Available in a 6-in. with 315-cfm size, an 8-in. with 710-cfm size and a 10-in. with a 1,065-cfm size. Stop by a local retail store for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

QUEST 105, 155 and 205 Dual High Capacity Dehumidifiers The newest additions to the QUEST product line are the QUEST 105, 155 and 205 Dual Dehumidifiers. Just like the QUEST Plug-N-Play dehumidifiers, the QUEST Duals require no installation. The best part about the new QUEST Duals is that they are among the most energy efficient, large capacity dehumidifiers on the market. For example, the QUEST 155 Dual performs at 0.91 gal. kWh while the QUEST 105 Dual performs at over 1.1 gal. kWh. Compared to most standard dehumidifiers (0.47 gal. kWh), the QUEST 155 is nearly twice as efficient. This efficiency translates into savings of hundreds of dollars a year. Protect your investment, protect your plants and protect your profits with QUEST’s high-grade equipment for high-grade growers. For more information, ask about QUEST at a local grow store.

Met52 Granular Bioinsecticide

RAW Calcium/Mag

Black vine weevils and thrips can be a big problem in your greenhouse or nursery operation. Met52 granular bioinsecticide is a powerful new tool that protects plants against harmful black vine weevils and thrips. Met52 G contains a beneficial fungus that grows on the insect causing the black vine weevil larvae and the thrip pupae to die. The Met52 G spores also provide a consistent and protective barrier for your plants to grow and thrive without weevils and thrips interrupting your operation. Reduce chemicals and protect your plants at the same time with the new Met52 G bioinsecticide. Met52 G is available in 2.2-lb. and 22-lb. bags. Visit a local retailer to find more information.

RAW Calcium/Mag is a fully water soluble calcium/magnesium additive that dissolves quickly in water. RAW Calcium/Mag contains 15% calcium and 3% magnesium. This individualization allows the gardener maximum control and precise custom formulation, resulting in both the plants and the gardener getting exactly what they want. RAW Calcium/ Mag provides all gardeners with the power to manage three key dynamics of gardening: value, quality and control. Keeping up with the industry’s standards is made easier by simplifying to the basics. For more information, visit a retail store near you.

1000-W SG Lite Convertible Ballast The 1000-W SG Lite Convertible Ballast offers versatility at a great price. It comes pre-wired with a patent-pending dual receptacle. It has an exclusive metal clip on the body that secures the power cord to the ballast. It also comes with a Lock and Seal Plug and now features rubber feet for stable operation with less vibration. The SG Lite has premium NRTL certification and is safety tested to meet all electrical requirements in the United States. You can be sure that your ballast will arrive in good shape as premium packaging for better handling integrity is used for all products distributed by Hydrofarm. Visit a local retailer for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

California Humus Vital Garden Supply is proud to be your source for California Humus. California Humus is an organic and biologically diverse compost. It is also a sustainable and highly concentrated compost. California Humus results from a three- to five-year, fungal-dominant decomposition process of woody plant materials. This process is powered by earthworms and millions of gallons of captured rainwater. The wood source is from California’s Central Valley orchard waste. California Humus reduces your water and fertilizer use while increasing a plant’s pest and disease resistance. It contains growth-promoting compounds. This rich compost also serves as a complete inoculant for beneficial soil micro-organisms. California Humus is free from pesticide residues, weed seeds and pathogens. It is a truly super-charged organic compost. Look for California Humus at your local farm and garden supply store.

RAW Silica

QUEST Dry 180

RAW Silica contains 45% silicon dioxide and is 100% flowable. This individualization allows the gardener maximum control and precise custom formulation, resulting in both the plants and the gardener getting exactly what they want. RAW Silica provides all gardeners with the power to manage three key dynamics of gardening: value, quality and control. Keeping up with the industry’s standards is made easier by simplifying to the basics. For more information, visit a retail store near you.

QUEST Equipment is pleased to announce the newest addition to its industry-leading, high efficiency dehumidifiers—the QUEST Dry 180. The QUEST Dry 180 is the ideal solution for most small growrooms. With capacity up to 180 pt. (86ºF/80%RH), the 180 will pull approximately 90 pt. (80ºF/60%RH) in a typical growroom. The QUEST Dry 180 was designed to be installed overhead, can be placed on a small shelf or even set on the floor for immediate plug-andplay performance. When extra space is required, an optional duct kit is available that allows the unit to be placed outside of the growroom. For further details, ask about Quest at a local grow store.

Veg+Bloom Dirty The Hydroponic Research crew proudly presents Veg+Bloom Dirty. We have taken our all-phase powder nutrient and packed it full of organic extracts and carbon-rich goodies. Our customers have had such great results with our RO/Soft and Tap/ Hard formulas that we felt inspired to bring you another next level product to further your genetics growing potential. Our Dirty formula is different from our standard Veg+Bloom RO/Soft and Tap/Hard formulas in the array of organics available at the core of its design. It is pH-ready for soil and peat moss and will work extraordinarily well in inert medias such as rockwool. Now, not only are you giving your plants everything they need, but also what they want. Get Dirty on your next crop and experience the ultimate harvest. For more details, stop by a local hydroponics store.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT SuperCloset’s Big Buddha Box The Big Buddha Box is SuperCloset’s highest yielding hydroponic grow system. It is vertically oriented and contains four multi-shelved walls with 87-net cups nested within the tiered grow trays situated around a centralized light column that extends from floor to ceiling. The effect of this set-up is four lush walls of flora all growing towards the center of the system. The heart of the Big Buddha Box is the Superponics hydroponics system that utilizes both ebb and flow and deep water culture to achieve maximum oxygenation of the plant roots. The Big Buddha helps growers quadruple their yields using half the electricity of a horizontally oriented hydroponics system. Fully automated pumps slowly raise and lower the water level in each lateral tank, which ensures roots receive equal levels of oxygen. In addition, the air stone diffusers create a “root Jacuzzi” for any remaining water in the tiered grow trays. For more information, inquire at a local indoor gardening store.

Cultured Solutions Premium Plant Nutrients Cultured Solutions™ premium plant nutrients by Current Culture H2O are spreading across the United States like wildfire. Cultured Solutions is the first and only nutrient in the hydroponics industry developed specifically for high performance water culture applications such as the Under Current™. Perfectly balanced mineral ratios and high quality chelates make Cultured Solutions extremely effective at lower EC/TDS levels where water culture applications tend to perform best. By maximizing nutrient solution uptake, crops grown using Cultured Solutions are kept well-nourished and hydrated, which results in optimal evapo-transpiration and stellar plant performance. For more information, check out a local indoor gardening store.

GreenCure Fungicide Defeat powdery mildew without harming your plants using GreenCure Fungicide; it’s real science with real results. GreenCure Fungicide, developed by Cornell University plant pathologist Dr. Ken Horst, is the trusted choice of organic gardeners both indoors and out. Sprayed on plant surfaces, GreenCure immediately splits open and dehydrates powdery mildew spores, mycelium and conidia, killing them within seconds of contact. Then, as new airborne spores land on leaf surfaces, they are killed, preventing germination and breaking the fungal life cycle. GreenCure’s patented formula includes potassium bicarbonate along with special surfactants that spread and stick to plant surfaces. It safely kills fungal diseases and creates a protective shield against new fungal invasions. Mix one tablespoon per gal. of water; spray to cover, not to saturate, and turn the lights out after spraying. This is an odorless spray so there is no foul smell, and no mask is required. Visit a retail store near you for more information.

Cocogro Cloning Plugs from Botanicare New Cocogro Cloning Plugs from Botanicare provide a real alternative to traditional peat-based and tree-bark-based rooting plugs. Cocogro Cloning Plugs are the first cococoir-based plugs in the industry. Our coco-coir-based plugs were developed specifically for cloning and provide a higher air holding capacity than traditional plugs as well as a natural resistance to pathogens. Cocogro Cloning Plugs do not easily become overly saturated or waterlogged. They allow for quicker and more vigorous rooting performance, and they contain the ideal nutrient charge to promote explosive root development. A healthy clone is the key to a fruitful harvest. Try Cocogro Cloning Plugs today to experience the latest in cloning technology from Botanicare. Visit a retail store near you for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Miracle, Myth, or Marketing:

are Epsom salts a Garden Cure-all? by dr. linda Chalker-scott

you may have recently heard somewhere that Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulphate, is an effective addition to any type of garden because it is safe and natural, but there is certainly more to this story, as dr. linda Chalker-scott explains. 50

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miracle, mYth or marketing

The Myth

With the increased consumer interest in managing gardens and landscapes sustainably, products are likewise being marketed as safe and natural. Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulphate (MgSO4), is touted as one of the most perfect nutrients for gardens and plants. Numerous claims are made about its effectiveness in increasing seed germination, improving uptake of other nutrients and enhancing growth and overall health. Tried and true tips are provided, which include specific formulations for house plants, vegetables, turf, shrubs and trees. Dangers of nutrient overload are minimized by assurances that Epsom salt is not persistent so you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overuse it.

EPSOM SALT has been used to relieve magnesium deficiency found during intensive cropping of many fruit and vegetable species worldwide.â&#x20AC;?

The Reality

Epsom salt has been used to relieve magnesium deficiency found during intensive cropping of many fruit and vegetable species worldwide. These include commonly grown North American crops such as alfalfa, apple, beets, carrots, citrus, cauliflower, cotton, grains, hops, kale, nuts, okra, peppers, plums, potatoes, snap beans, sugar beets, sweet potatoes, tobacco, tomatoes, watermelon and wine grapes, as well as more exotic species including banana, cacao, coffee, rubber, Swedish turnips and tea. Conifer species grown for timber use have also been treated with Epsom salts under magnesium-deficient conditions. Among the diverse plant materials that have been studied under treatment with Epsom salts, there are two commonalities: all are intensively produced crops and all were suffering from magnesium deficiency. It is important to keep these two points in mind as we examine the claims and recommendations regarding Epsom salt use in the garden.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Causes of deficiency

There are two primary causes of magnesium deficiency in plants: an actual lack of soil magnesium, or an imposed deficiency caused by mineral imbalances in the soil or plant. Magnesium deficiencies most commonly occur in soils described as light, sandy or acidic, though occasionally clay soils under intensive production can show magnesium deficiency as well. Regardless of type, soils heavily leached by rainfall or irrigation are more likely to exhibit magnesium deficiency. Thus, addition of highly soluble Epsom salts to soil under leaching conditions does not benefit magnesium-deficient plants but does increase mineral contamination of water passing through. Excessive levels of potassium contribute to a mineral imbalance that causes magnesium deficiency in a variety of species, even when soil levels of magnesium are adequate. High levels of soil potassium apparently interfere with root uptake of magnesium. Addition of nitrogen or reduction of available potassium are both recommended to overcome this indirect magnesium deficiency; trees high in nitrogen were found to be less susceptible to magnesium deficiency than those with reduced nitrogen levels.

miracle, myth or marketing

Examining the claims CLAIM: Unlike most commercial fertilizers, which build up in the soil over time, Epsom salt is not persistent, so you can’t overuse it

Several researchers have expressed concern with possible toxicities associated with excessive applications of Epsom salts. Most commonly, Epsom salt solutions have been sprayed on foliage, resulting in leaf scorch. Inclusion of a wetting agent can relieve this. Excessively applied Epsom salt was also linked to root disease of sugar cane grown on clay soils, and with increased incidence of apple bitter pit. One researcher directly contradicts the above statement, finding instead that, “Magnesium residues from fertilizer unused by plants accumulate in the topsoil and are not rapidly removed by leaching.” Unfortunately, this evidence is generally ignored in advertising literature and application instructions. Epsom salt is a highly soluble form of magnesium, leading to the claim of non-persistence in the landscape. What is ignored, however, is that soluble nutrients applied in excess of what is needed by a landscape will end up somewhere else—often as a pollutant.

“ soluble nutrients applied in excess of what is needed by a landscape will end up somewhere else— often as a pollutant.” CLAIM: Spray [roses] with Epsom salt solution weekly to discourage pests. Epsom salts deter pests, including slugs and voles The first article I found testing the pesticidal claim is from a 1915 paper investigating chemical controls for larval control of flies. Of Epsom salts, the authors found “no apparent larvicidal effect.” Interest in Epsom salts languished until the late 1930s with a preliminary report that Epsom salts could control grasshoppers on beans. However, these results were refuted in later research. Likewise, Epsom salts were found ineffective against nutgrass armyworm, caterpillar pests on tomatoes and the alfalfa snout beetle. Interest again waned after these negative results, and there is no current research to suggest any insecticidal activity. There is no literature that reports activity of Epsom salts against slugs or 54

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

miracle, mYth or marketing voles, and the sole published report on potential rabbit repellency was negative. No science can be found to substantiate claims of control on any pest species. Though disease control is not specifically mentioned in these claims, other popular websites avidly recommend Epsom salts for this purpose. There are two research reports from the early 1960s claiming a reduction in powdery mildew on apples, but no peer-reviewed articles resulted from these initial findings. A third research report found Epsom salts to have no effect upon apple scab occurrence.

MOST SEEDS

contain enough essential minerals to initiate root and shoot growth on paper towels moistened only with pure water.â&#x20AC;?

CLAIM: Research indicates Epsom salt can help seeds germinate This rather misleading claim has no basis in scientific research. Most seeds are able to germinate in the absence of external nutrients. Most seeds contain enough essential minerals to initiate root and shoot growth on paper towels moistened only with pure water. CLAIM: Research indicates Epsom Salt can make plants grow bushier

Nebulous terms like bushier are difficult to quantify, yet I approached this claim with a great deal of latitude. Plants of any species that suffer magnesium or sulphur deficiency have chlorotic leaves that are less productive and more likely to grow old early; thus, relieving the deficiency will improve leaf growth and return overall plant health to normal. Many scientific articles have demonstrated improved growth and production in magnesium- or sulfur-deficient plants once a usable source of the missing nutrient is supplied. Most importantly, there is no evidence that excessive levels of nutrients provided by Epsom salts or anything else will cause plants to grow bushier or have any other measurable positive effect. CLAIM: Research indicates Epsom salt can produce more flowers Only two articles in my search specifically addressed flower initiation or production. One reported that Epsom salts provided as a foliar spray nine times annually for two years enhanced flower cluster numbers in the apple cultivar Coxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orange pippin. This cultivar is particularly sensitive to magnesium deficiency and responds well to Epsom salts application; thus, it is not surprising that flowering may increase once a nutrient deficiency has been relieved. The other research article investigated the role of magnesium in flower initiation of orchids; there was no increase in flowering associated with addition of Epsom salts. As other orchid researchers have stated, there is no scientific evidence that suggests the application of Epsom salts to orchids or any other plant will induce them to flower. 56

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miracle, myth or marketing CLAIM: Research indicates Epsom salt can increase chlorophyll production Magnesium is a physical part of the chlorophyll molecule. A deficiency of magnesium will cause a corresponding reduction in chlorophyll production (leading to leaf chlorosis often used as an indicator of magnesium deficiency). Epsom salts added to adequately fertilized plants will not increase chlorophyll production for that species.

“ A deficiency of magnesium will cause a corresponding reduction in chlorophyll production.” CLAIM: Research indicates Epsom salt can improve phosphorus and nitrogen uptake Plants deficient in magnesium or sulphur will be stressed and less able to take up and utilize other nutrients, including phosphorus and nitrogen. Relieving the deficiency will improve nutrient uptake and usage. Any source of available sulphur or magnesium will accomplish this, but excessive amounts will not increase normal uptake. This claim not only suggests that Epsom salts alone will have this effect, but also implies that somehow uptake will be greater than normal.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

miracle, mYth or marketing

SOIL

APPLICATION

Examining the recommendations INSTRUCTION: Trees: apply 2 tbsp per 9 sq. ft. Apply over the root zone three times annually Though more effective in treating magnesium deficiency, application of foliar sprays to large trees may not be practical; thus, soil application of fertilizer is more common in treating magnesium-deficient tree plantations. Not surprisingly, soil application of Epsom salt was found to be ineffective in treating magnesium deficiency in coffee, hazelnuts, pine and plum trees; slow-release magnesium sources are better choices. Heavy applications of Epsom salts might temporarily correct magnesium deficiency, but chemical overdosing is not an environmentally sustainable practice. Furthermore, practices that are geared towards intensive production of trees as a crop cannot be logically applied to ornamental landscapes. INSTRUCTION: Shrubs (evergreens, azaleas, rhododendron): 1 tbsp per 9 sq. ft. Apply over root zone every two to four weeks As with the information on trees above, there are no published studies that address shrubs in the landscape. Research on shrubs is limited to a single paper on nursery production, in which azalea, blueberry, juniper and holly were grown in containers of sand and pine bark (a nutrient-poor medium). Soil addition of Epsom salts improved leaf color in these magnesiumdeficient plants. It would be inappropriate to apply these results to landscape materials.

of epsom salt was found to be ineffective in treating magnesium deficiency in coffee, hazelnuts, pine and plum treesâ&#x20AC;? INSTRUCTION: Lawns: apply 3 lbs. for every 1,250 sq. ft. with a spreader, or dilute in water and apply with a sprayer Epsom salt has been used to relieve magnesium deficiencies on grasses used in turf and pasture land. Magnesium deficiency is a serious disorder in grazing cattle and thus the magnesium content of highly grazed pastures must be managed. Soil application of Epsom salt will rapidly increase the magnesium content of pasture grasses, but the effect is shortlived. This is due to the highly soluble nature of Epsom salts, the leaching of which not only negates long-term benefits but also contributes to water pollution. In one study, 49% of the applied Epsom salt was lost in this manner. Less soluble forms of magnesium are generally recommended for better lasting magnesium supplementation. In contrast to pasture land studies, turf research is sparse; a single report from 1951 suggests that Epsom salts can treat fairy rings (fungal diseases) in lawn. While Epsom salt is a quick fix for intensively managed turf systems (such as golf courses), magnesium deficiency does not appear to be a serious issue for most turf grasses, and therefore, Epsom salt addition is unnecessary. The excessive leaching of Epsom salts documented elsewhere is further incentive not to apply this material indiscriminately to lawns. INSTRUCTION: Roses: 1 tbsp per 1 ft. of plant height per plant; apply every two weeks. Also scratch a half-cup into soil at base to encourage new basal cane growth. Soak unplanted bushes in 1 cup of Epsom salt per gallon of water to help roots recover. Add a tablespoon of Epsom salt to each hole at planting time. There is no published, scientific research on Epsom saltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effect on roses. The origin of these recommendations is unclear.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

miracle, mYth or marketing INSTRUCTION: Garden start-up: Sprinkle 1 cup per 100 sq. ft. Mix into soil before planting Unless your garden has been intensively cultivated for crop production, or soil tests indicate a magnesium deficiency, there is no reason to add unnecessary chemicals. No scientific research could be found to support this recommendation. INSTRUCTION: House plants: 2 tbsp per gal. of water; feed plants monthly Generally house plants should receive a balanced fertilizer that contains all necessary macro- and micronutrients. Providing increased levels of magnesium and sulphur is not a rational approach to house plant maintenance, especially in the absence of any signs of deficiency. Excessive nutrients will build up in the container (as they cannot leach away) and can cause salt-related damage to leaves.

The urge to use common household products as garden fertilizers and pesticides is compelling for many consumers who want simple, cheap approaches to landscape management. However, the use of any chemical in a landscape should be thoughtfully considered: Is it necessary? Can it cause damage? The science behind the use of Epsom salt is only applicable to intensive crop production in situations where magnesium is known to be deficient in the soil or in the plants. It is irresponsible to advise gardeners and other plant enthusiasts to apply Epsom salts, or any chemical, without regard to soil conditions, plant needs and environmental health.

house plants should receive a balanced fertilizer that contains all necessary macroand micronutrients.â&#x20AC;?

There are two reports dating back more than 60 years on tomato production. When tomatoes are grown in

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

The Bottom Line

GENERALLY

INSTRUCTION: Tomatoes: 1 tbsp per foot of plant height per plant; apply every two weeks

magnesium-deficient soil, a foliar application of Epsom salt can relieve magnesium deficiency in tomato plants; no effect on yield was reported. An automatic application of Epsom salts to plants or soils that are not magnesium deficient is a poor management strategy that can injure the plants and contaminate the soil.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

By Dr. Lynette Morgan

There are additives lurking in most gardening sprays, but not to worry, that’s a good thing! However, as with any potentially beneficial product or compound being added to hydroponic nutrient solutions, there are issues with surfactants that growers should know about.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

surfactant solutions

nts surfacta kill ic o n t o y -i d “non he abilit res an o t have n zoosp d of ” . oge sprea e h t path ol t diseases tr o n r o t c o n ro certai

The effect of non-ionic surfactants on fungal zoospores in the nutrient solution of a hydroponic lettuce crop was discovered by accident.

There is nothing more satisfying than finding an exciting new application for a horticultural or hydroponic product. Many of us love to trial new ideas for old problems, and search out solutions for those troublesome aspects of plant production to discover what might or might not boost crop growth that little bit more. One such idea, which is increasingly being backed up by some good science, is the use of non-ionic surfactants in the hydroponic nutrient solution. Most of us are familiar in one way or another with surfactants, such as in our everyday life (household detergents) and as indoor gardeners, with these being a common component of plant foliar, insecticide and fungicide sprays. Surfactants, however, have much more potential than just a wetting agent in plant spray products; they have been proven to assist with root disease control in the nutrient solution and more recently have been proven to have plant growth boosting effects under certain conditions.

What are surfactants? Surfactants are one of the most widely used additives in agriculture. They essentially lower surface tension, allow the spreading and sticking of liquids and enhance the absorption of 68

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

surfactant solutions < Non-ionic surfactants may act to boost the absorption and activity of plant hormones used to promote root formation.

compounds and sprays. In this way they allow a foliar applied spray to form a uniform, thin, easily absorbed layer over a leaf surface rather than just running off the waxy cuticle in large droplets. Surfactants are also used as wetting agents in soil and in soilless growing mixes, allowing the substrate to initially saturate up easily as media such as peat can be water repellent when fully dry. However, what is vital to remember with any use of surfactants in hydroponics is that not all are created equal; it is only the non-ionic surfactants that have proven effects on pathogen control and plant growth when added to the nutrient solution. Other types of surfactants have been proven to have toxic effects, so choosing a good quality, nonionic type is essential. Commonly used synthetic non-ionic surfactants include ones used in many plant growth studies such as those conducted on Tween and Agral, although many others exist. These days the organic market has also been catered to with a number of bio-surfactants becoming available. Many of these non-synthetic, saponin surfactants are derived from plants such as yucca and quillaja and while they are non-ionic, they are often required to be used at higher rates than other more concentrated synthetic products. Luckily there is now non-ionic surfactant products designed specifically for the hydroponic market so basic mistakes in choosing the right formulation and dose rate can be avoided.

Surfactant uses and potential Apart from their common use as spray additives and wetting agents, non-ionic surfactants have two major potential uses in hydroponic nutrient solutions. The first has been known since the 1960sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the fact that non-ionic surfactants have the ability to kill pathogen zoospores and control the spread of 70

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certain root rot diseases in the nutrient solution. Another potential use is the more recently reported effect of surfactants boosting plant growth in some species under hydroponic conditions.

Surfactants and pathogen control Many of the common root rot diseases problematic in hydroponics are spread via zoospores. Zoosporic fungi include the dreaded pythium, but also phytophthora root rot. In fact, there are approximately 143 species of zoosporic plant pathogens. What makes these particularly damaging in hydroponics is that diseases producing zoospores release these into the nutrient solution or irrigation water. Zoospores survive easily in water and are able to swim, locate and infest new root systems. Therefore, zoospores in hydroponic systems can rapidly spread an isolated disease outbreak through this highly efficient system of zoospore infection. Zoosporic fungal diseases such as pythium actually thrive under warm, wet hydroponic conditions that favor the spread via motile spores, particularly if plants have been weakened or stressed in any way.

Root rot diseases are spread via zoospores in the nutrient solution; however, non-ionic surfactants destroy the plasma membrane and can kill zoospores rapidly. Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

surfactant solutions The effect non-ionic surfactants have on controlling disease zoospores in hydroponic nutrient solutions was actually discovered by accident when researchers applied a fungicide containing a surfactant to a hydroponic lettuce crop. It was discovered that the synthetic surfactant in the fungicide was effective in destroying the zoospore plasma membrane, thus reducing the ability of the spores to move and infect plants and eventually kill them. While non-ionic surfactants had little or no effect on any other stage of the disease life cycle in killing or retarding the zoospores in the nutrient solution, the potential for the control of these root infecting pathogens was realized.

Further studies were carried out on a number of different hydroponic crops prone to zoosporic fungal disease outbreaks. Most found highly promising results in that non-ionic surfactant used at the correct rate could give a high degree of disease control of pythium and phytophthora in the nutrient solution. However, while the surfactant could destroy large numbers of zoospores being carried by the nutrient solution, hence preventing or slowing the spread of these diseases, it had no effect on plants already infected when the disease was present inside plant tissue. Therefore, use of non-ionic surfactants in the nutrient solution is more of a preventative action rather than curative. Non-ionic surfactants destroy zoospores released by active disease outbreaks and prevent these from infecting new plants. For this to be effective, the correct rate of non-ionic surfactant products needs to be continually maintained in the nutrient solution and when this has been achieved, growers have reported good results. Non-ionic surfactants also have an important role to play in general system and indoor garden hygiene. Since surfactants can not only assist in removal of biofilms and general cleaning, but also in the destruction of disease zoospores, they are a great tool for prevention of pathogen problems.

Surfactants and growth enhancement While there have been many research trials since the 1960s examining the effects of nonionic surfactants on pathogen control in the nutrient solution, the re-evaluation that these same surfactants may have other growth benefits has not been as extensive. The non-ionic surfactant called Tween 20 has been found to stimulate tobacco root respiration and succinoxidase activity in tissue culture media at rates of 0.001%. Whether this same effect occurs in intact mature plants growing hydroponically is not clear. 72

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A more recent study reported that the addition of non-ionic surfactant to hydroponic nutrient solutions increased fresh and dry weights of peace lily and impatiens by 17% and 33% respectively. It was also found that water use efficiency of peace lily and impatiens with the Tween 20 solution was increased by 166% and 221% compared to the untreated control. The most likely mode of action of surfactants when added to the nutrient solution is that they may make root membranes more permeable, thus allowing more nutrients (or other compounds) to be absorbed by the roots. The plant growth promoting effects of non-ionic surfactants probably go even further than this and it has been suggested that these compounds can also act as synergists with plant hormones such as IAA (and other auxins often used on cuttings for root formation), giving further growth boosting effects. It is likely that further research will clarify exactly how non-ionic surfactants applied at the correct dose for each species can positively benefit growth and development. It appears that the advantageous effects are a combination of both physical and biochemical interactions.

nts surfacta leased ic n re -io res o “Non oosp outbreaks oy z om estr isease d fr d e v these ts.” t n e by acti plan prev d n ew a ng n infecti

Pythium, also known as damping off, is a common fungal disease in hydroponics. >

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

surfactant solutions

he t at th are effectsoth “It appears ous of b tage l n n o a ati adv emica ch mbin o o bi c d a s.” l an n o sica phy interacti

Surfactant issues As with any potentially beneficial product or compound being added to the hydroponic nutrient solutions, there are issues growers should know about. First, growers who have found the addition of non-ionic surfactant useful for reduction in root rot pathogens such as pythium also reported foaming in the nutrient reservoir was common, particularly in the few days after the surfactant was added. Foaming is to be expected when what is essentially a strong detergent is added to moving water; however, the degree of bubble formation differs between surfactant products.

Surfactants have long been used as wetting agents in foliar sprays and in growing mediums. 74

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Dosage rates can be another issue. Commercial lettuce growers have had success with using 0.85 oz. per 264 gal. of nutrient solution of Agral and other similar non-ionic surfactants for assistance with root disease control; however, different surfactant products may need different dosage rates depending on the concentration of active ingredients. Many of the newer bio surfactant products designed for hydroponic use give dose rates on the product label and these should be carefully followed. As with most products and compounds available to add to the nutrient solution, over-dosing does not give better results and in many cases can be quite toxic to the plants. Another issue with dosage rates is that surfactants are gradually broken down by microbial action over time so determining how often to redose may be difficult and require some trial and error.

In Conclusion While the use of ionic surfactants in the hydroponic nutrient solution is not a new idea and is proven to battle disease spread via mobile swimming zoospores, the potential for growth enhancement is a relatively new area of study. There exists a great deal of potential to define exactly how these compounds may assist plant growth and the exciting possibility of using new and even more effective non-ionic surfactant products in the future. Non-ionic surfactants have been shown in research studies to give control of root rot of hydroponically grown peppers caused by Phytophthora capsici. >

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

Hydroponics by Frank Rauscher Is organic the only wise choice left out there? Let’s start by deciding what it means to be truly organic in the first place, and then apply the concept of organics to a hydroponics system.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

orgaNIC HYDROPONICS There is a lot of buzz and interest in organics. What is organic? What isn’t organic? Are hydroponic systems organic? Opinions on this seem to cover the entire spectrum. But what is real and what is marketing? A hydroponics system can be organically operated. Take a hydroponics system or an aquaponics system for example. There is no more need to use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides in a hydroponics system than there would be in a conventional garden grow. Actually, due to the fact that many hydroponics systems are indoors or at least within a greenhouse, the reduced exposure to large populations of insects can help one operate a hydroponics system with minimal use of any chemical pesticide. To really get to the root of this issue, however, we need to begin with some definition clarification. The term organic seems to have a wide variation of definitions and, therefore, differing opinions on the matter.

“The reduced exposure to large populations of insects can help one operate a hydroponics system with minimal use of any chemical pesticide.”

Terminology

An organic compound is simply one that is carbon based, but there is no official scientific definition of an organic compound. This is why there is a need to use caution when hearing the claim that something is organic. Broadly defined, the dictionary entry for organic is any of the following: 1. Of, relating to, or derived from living organisms: organic matter 2. Of, relating to, or affecting a bodily organ: an organic disease 3 a. Of, marked by, or involving the use of fertilizers or pesticides that are strictly of animal or vegetable origin: organic vegetables; an organic farm b. Raised or conducted without the use of drugs, hormones, or synthetic chemicals: organic chicken; organic cattle farming c. Serving organic food: an organic restaurant d. Simple, healthful, and close to nature: an organic lifestyle

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

orgaNIC HYDROPONICS In regards to most of the questions I am asked about organics, the above definitions 3a and 3b are what most folks are interested in learning about and what, for the purpose of this discussion, will comprise the current, popular definition of organic. Organic growing will not use pesticides and fertilizers that may have risky synthetic chemicals in them. What seems certain is that consumers and growers alike want as natural and as safe a growing process as possible with maximum productivity and taste. A clearer understanding of pesticides and fertilizers could help us achieve this.

Pesticides

Pesticides that are derived from animals or plants, and not combined with other synthetic chemicals, are considered organic. Synthetic is a key term in this aspect of the discussion. For example, a pyrethrin is an active component of a chrysanthemum flower and is available without the substantial process that might render it synthetic. Pyrethrins on their own are not really effective in killing many insects but do a good job of stunning them and making them vulnerable to being killed by other toxins. A pyrethroid is an organic compound because its molecules contain carbon. These compounds are not extracted from the chrysanthemum but created through chemistry.

They are synthesized. They do, however, have similar characteristics to pyrethrins in both efficacy in controlling insects and safety towards mammals. They are actually a significant improvement over the naturally extracted pyrethrins. Permethrins (second generation pyrethriods) use a common chemical piperonyl butoxide (an organic compound) added to do the job of actually killing the insect. Remember that just because it is an organic compound doesn’t mean it isn’t synthetic. This one does, however, have a low oral and dermal toxicity to mammals while being quite toxic to insects. It sounds desirable, but as it is combined with a synthetic it is grouped outside the current popular definition of organic. I present this complex and potentially confusing information to get everyone thinking outside the regular box known as organic, and to help give some good balance to an understanding of just what products you may want to use in your garden. Manufacturers can use the claim of organic simply because the molecules contain carbon. What is vital to look for is that the products are groundwater safe and safe for mammals. On one side of safety considerations would be synthetic systemic pesticides that pervade the plant tissues and are subsequently available for consumption if the plant is eaten. It is clear we want to avoid these. There are pure, popular organic pesticides that are safe for mammals, but perhaps not effective if used improperly or used to control a pest they are not effective at controlling. Then, on the other side, there are some long used and safe compounds we can trust to stop severe infestations. Having a better understanding of all these should give the grower maximum success.

“Pyrethrins on their own are not really effective in killing many insects but do a good job of stunning them.”

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

orgaNIC HYDROPONICS Keep in mind there are pests out there other than insects. If not beneficial, bacteria and fungi are also pests. So, pesticides are not just for killing or controlling insects, but are used to stop or minimize disease. Some bacteria can be very dangerous to a hydroponic system. Once pythium gets started in the fluid media it can cause the entire crop to fail and create toxic byproducts. In any type of system, the prevention or control of pathogenic pests is vital to not only the garden’s yield, but also to the edible safety of the crop. Is it a good practice to simply discard all pesticides that might be classified as non-organic and put other risk factors at a higher level? Carefully evaluate just what is synthetic, what the risks are and what the trade-offs are for plant health and food safety. Always favor the organic option first, but keep other options on the table if needed. Consider many of the food toxicity incidents in the past few years, and just how many were from organic farms. As our current industry standards call for strict avoidance of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, this often makes the task of maintaining plant health and food safety difficult. I believe we need a new way to grade how our food source is grown—one that takes the level of risk in all areas into consideration and gives some sort of simple color code chart for the consumer to view and use to help them make better choices.

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orgaNIC HYDROPONICS

Fertilizers

Many fertilizers that fit under the popular definition of organic are primarily derived from some type of animal waste so there needs to be great care that micro-organisms are properly controlled to prevent pathogens like E. coli. Also keep in mind there is a strict requirement to use only organic pest controls to do this. Many companies are indeed capable of doing this, but it is no easy task. Look at the trade-offs before deciding.

“It doesn’t do much good to avoid the use of a safe synthetic and at the same time subject your plants to nutrient deficiency.” Plants require adequate amounts of the three macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K), but also require micronutrients such as iron, zinc, manganese and copper, etc. How are these plants being fed to assure that these essential heavy metals are available in trace amounts to provide plant health? No matter if a plant is grown in garden soil, or in a controlled hydroponic environment, these nutrients can become too scarce and the plant can subsequently suffer from this. A practical method for avoiding this is to add a safe micronutrient supplement to your organic nutrient. Though these nutrients can come from natural sources, I have not found a balanced combination of all (or even most) of the needed micronutrients in an organic fertilizer. Good soil will likely contain adequate amounts of these nutrients but will eventually become depleted. It doesn’t do much good to avoid the use of a safe synthetic and at the same time subject your plants to nutrient deficiency. A balanced practical approach to nutrient selection can go a long way towards optimal yield, plant health and the ultimate value of the food produced. 84

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orgaNIC HYDROPONICS

Naturally present organic toxins

“There is a type of common sense we all need to use when we consider what we are willing to allow in our food source, and what we add as supplements to our garden.”

Toxins are in our food even if we never apply a synthetic substance. Cyanides are organically created toxins or poisons, but just because these are organic certainly doesn’t mean we want to expose ourselves to dangerous amounts of them. For example, apples contain cyanides, but in low quantities they are not harmful. You can’t achieve the goal desired by dealing with this in the extreme. There is a type of common sense we all need to use when we consider what we are willing to allow in our food source, and what we add as supplements to our garden. There are trade-offs, of course. To use a small amount of a low-risk chemical (whether synthetic or naturally organic) to, for example, reduce the likelihood of botulism, would seem quite practical. Some of these chemicals can cause many maladies when used in high enough concentrations and used over a considerable period of time. Salt is a chemical that we feel pretty safe with(yes, salt is a chemical), but just consider people with hypertension and we see even here that we need to be careful. On the other hand consider that C. botulinum thrives in moist foods that are low in salt (less than 10%). It is therefore a good preservative to use if you are not predisposed to high blood pressure or a number of other issues.

In Conclusion

Going organic is great, and making your hydroponics system as organic and safe as possible is the way to go. Just because it is hydroponic doesn’t mean it’s synthetic, or that it needs to be. And, just because a product is claimed as organic doesn’t mean it is necessarily safe or effective. A balanced approach will give you the very best options for safety, yield and taste. Don’t automatically exclude something because it is classified as a synthetic compound. Look into it, do some research and then make your choice.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

low e o l ing w h P ith the by Bill DeBoer A grower must think a lot about what to give their plants to help them grow, and what kinds of media to grow them in, but there is a lot happening inside the plant once that’s all decided. Let’s take a trip through the vascular system of a plant, where we are sure to discover more about the phloem.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

flowing with the phloem

“plants have the ability to close off the sieve plate quickly in the event of mechanical damage, thus preventing the sap of one tube from flowing into adjacent tissue.”

Ah, the phloem! Isn’t that the thing that carries sugar? Or is that the xylem? While the vascular system of a plant can be confusing, these transportation highways play an integral role in plant metabolism. One major blockage without rectification and the plant will perish. This is particularly evident in the method of girdling the outside of a tree. Obstruct the phloem from supplying the roots with energy, and the whole plant dies. For the sake of distinguishing the plant vascular system, the xylem is a series of tubes comprised of non-living cells. Water and solutes (nutrients) travel in one direction up the xylem via the transpirational stream. In other words, evaporation of water from the leaves creates a force not unlike a person sucking on a straw that draws these solutes up. This is in stark contrast to the phloem, which carries sugar and other photosynthates (products of photosynthesis, mostly sap) from the leaf source to the root sink. So, with that in mind, let’s first look at the anatomy of the phloem.

1 1 Sieve tube 2 Sieve plate 3 Companion cell 90

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Composition and orientation Simplistically, the phloem consists of sieve tube elements, sieve plates, companion cells and parenchyma cells. The sieve tube elements are longitudinal in shape and are oriented end to end forming a consecutive tube. These tube cells are comprised of living cells, albeit not quite fully functional without help. Once the network of tube cells reaches maturity, several organelles (organs of the cell) including the vacuole (storage) and nucleus (brain center of a cell), which would otherwise block the flow of sugar and other chemicals, disintegrates. Other repackaging or modification organelles remain on either side of the cell to help with various facets of plant metabolism. Imagine how dysfunctional a tube would be when it contains numerous blockades. Consequently, these living tube cells are like a computer without a hard drive. So, how do they operate? Or, more importantly, live? Each sieve tube element depends on companion cells for life-support to help offset the functions of the lost organelles. At either end of the cell are screenlike sieve plates that allow passage of the sap from tube cell to tube cell. Lastly there are the parenchyma cells on the outside of the tube cell that function as storage vessels for the various compounds that pass by. Exceptions notwithstanding, the phloem resides in the vascular bundle closest to the outer epidermis/cortex layers of the stem. In between the phloem is a layer referred to as the cambium followed by the xylem that is closest to the pith or inner portion of the stem. Now it is easy to see why a wound to the outside of the plant stem can impact the overall health of the plant. Interestingly, plants have the ability to close off the sieve plate quickly in the event of mechanical damage, thus preventing the sap of one tube from flowing into adjacent tissue.

flowing with the phloem

Going up or down?

Phloem Xylem Cambium

“Don’t think of the phloem as one tube, but rather a system of many tubes operating like a series of elevators in a hotel.”

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

While the title of this article may be a bit of a misnomer, unlike the xylem, flow of sap is not unidirectional but rather bidirectional. It is important to note that within the same tube at a particular moment, the movement is unidirectional. Don’t think of the phloem as one tube, but rather a system of many tubes operating like a series of elevators in a hotel. Some are going up, some are going down, and it just depends on where the cargo is needed. Shoot meristems or new growth, roots, and flowering and fruiting bodies are considered energy sinks. That is to say they consume more than they produce. Therefore, downward flow in the phloem supplies energy to the roots so they can in turn uptake additional water and nutrients. However, actively growing regions of the plants also

require more energy (sugar) than mature leaves, so certain elevators of the phloem can go up to meet the metabolic demands. The most widely accepted theory explaining this movement involves the change in osmotic or water potential driving the sap up or down.

Water potential The force is not so clear-cut in this one. As previously described, phloem movement is dictated by a difference between source and sink. But how does that occur? Source cells (mature leaves, high concentration) load all compounds that will comprise the sap into the tube cells. This action favors water entering the tube cell as well, creating hydrostatic pressure against the wall of the tube cell driving the sap toward the sink (roots, low concentration). The offloading of solutes into the sink tissue likewise favors water to leave the tube cell where it is redistributed to adjacent cells and back into the xylem. Therefore, gradients are created in the source such as a high

flowing with the phloem

To Flowers, Fruit & New Growth (Sink)

concentration of sucrose. And, once loaded into the tube cells of the phloem, they are propelled toward the area of lower concentration found in the sink (roots and fruit).

Mature Leaf Source

To Roots (Sink)

What is traveling in the elevator? The phloem is often credited with being the transporter of sugar manufactured in the leaves. While sugar is arguably one of the most important passengers, the phloem is also responsible for the transportation of other compounds. This includes nitrogen in the form of amino acids and amides,

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organic acids, proteins and various other solutes. While there are several constituents compressing the sap, sugar is the focal point. There is credence to this claim in that the sap consists of 16 to 25% carbohydrates, making it the single largest contributor to this chemical cocktail.

In conclusion The phloem is a series of tubes consisting of sieve tube elements (tube cells), sieve plates (screens), companion cells (life support) and parenchyma cells (storage). The phloem differs from the xylem in that

all cells of the xylem are nonliving, and movement is only upward as dictated by transpiration. The phloem transportation highway is responsible for delivering sugars, nitrogenous compounds and other assimilates from the source (leaves) to the sink (roots, flowers, fruit and newly developing leaves). The movement of these materials is bidirectional; movement is down to supply roots, or upward to supply flower, fruit or new growth. Hopefully this article has illuminated what the phloem is and how integral it is to delivering energy and nutrients throughout the plant.

Avant-Gardening

g n i s Choo ine r o l h C s l a c i Cohr em er f Wat n o i t c e f n Disi by Guy Sela

ut emical o h c e in r hlo nd type of c e n o of pros a t n e a s h t n e w r o ly. mo with its ter supp a s There is e w m r o u c o ing y nd each isinfect d o there, a t s e en it com cons wh

Chlorine chemicals are effective when used against bacteria, viruses and fungi that contaminate water. Four types of chlorine chemicals are commonly used in agriculture: sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, gaseous chlorine and chlorine dioxide.

Sodium hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite(NaOCl) is a yellowish liquid with an active chlorine concentration of 10 to 15% with a pH around 13. It is unstable, and when it comes in contact with air, light or high temperatures, the chlorine evaporates and therefore its concentration in water decreases. The chemical reaction with water is:

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

NaOCl + H2O <--> HOCl + Na + OH-

Due to its high pH, sodium hypochlorite increases water pH. The reaction of sodium hypochlorite with water results in two forms: HOCl (hypochlorous acid) and OCl-. The ratio between HOCl and OCl- depends on the pH. HOCl is a more effective disinfectant than OCl (100 times more effective), and since this form is predominant in a pH range of 3.0 to 6.7, the treated water should be acidified. It is possible to acidify the water using sulfuric acid, and it is recommended to maintain the pH in the range of 5.8 to 6.5 to ensure effective disinfection while keeping the pH in a favorable

range for irrigation. The amount of sodium added to water using sodium hypochlorite generally does not significantly affect water quality since disinfection is achieved at relatively low concentrations of chlorine (usually <10 ppm). The addition of sodium can be considerable in water re-utilization systems in which sodium concentrations in the water increase gradually.

Advantages: easy to transport and store, highly effective when correctly used. Disadvantages: corrosive, precautions should be taken when handling; evaporates/disintegrates upon contact with air, light and high temperatures; short shelf life.

t Thdeiumaamddoedutonwatere

Advantages:

Calcium hypochlorite

Calcium hypochlorite, Ca(ClO)2 is more stable than sodium hypochlorite and contains a higher chlorine concentration (30 to 75%).The chemical reaction with water is:

Ca(OCl)2 + 2H2O <--> 2HOCl + Ca+2 + 2OHLike sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite also increases water pH, so it is advised to acidify the water during the disinfection process. Calcium hypochlorite is available as white powder or tablets, so it should first be dissolved in water before injecting it into the treated water. Calcium hypochlorite isn’t highly soluble, so it dissolves better in soft or medium-hard water. It is recommended to dissolve it in warm water in order to improve its solubility. In any case, all forms of calcium hypochlorite contain insoluble residues that form sediments in the solution. It is important to eliminate the sediment before injecting the calcium hypochlorite solution into the treated water tank to avoid clogging.

lorit of so m hypoch cantly iu d o s g usin signifi does not ty since y ll a r e n e g ter quali affect wa is achieved at n disinfectio concentrations w lo relatively rine (usually of chlo .” <10 ppm)

easy transport and storage, more stable than sodium hypochlorite, does not add sodium to the water, highly effective when correctly used.

Disadvantages: low solubility, might cause clogging, the final chlorine concentration in water is dependent on the extent of dissolution achieved.

Gaseous Chlorine

Gaseous chlorine (Cl2) is chlorine in its pure form, which is a strong oxidizing and disinfecting agent. It is stored and transported in cylinders as pressure-liquefied gas. The chemical reaction with water is:

Cl2(g) + H2O <--> HOCl + H+ + ClUnlike sodium or calcium hypochlorite, gaseous chlorine decreases water pH.

Advantages: highly effective disinfectant, reduces water pH so additional acidification is not necessary, uniform and rapid dissolution in water.

Disadvantages: requires skill and strict precautions in handling.

Chlorine dioxide

Chlorine dioxide(ClO2) is very different from the other forms of chlorine described above. It cannot be compressed or commercially stored because it becomes volatile under pressure. Therefore, it is always produced on site as part of the disinfection process. Sodium chlorite and hypochlorous acid are stored in separate containers and are injected into a chlorine dioxide generator where they react and produce chlorine dioxide. The concentrations of chlorine dioxide needed to achieve effective disinfection are lower than the concentrations needed when using other chlorine forms.

Advantages: a powerful oxidant, effectiveness of disinfection does not depend on pH or organic load in the water, no byproducts (such as chloramines) are formed, rapid and uniform dissolution in water. Disadvantages: requires skill, requires strict precautions in handling. Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Perlite revisited By casey Jones fraser

Anyone lookin g for a hydropon ic system addition that is reliable, easy to use, e asy to reuse a nd is quite budge t friendly, shou ld tr y growing the ir next crop in perlite. Read o n to discover how horticultu rists benefit from this time-t ested growing addit ion.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

perlite revisited

Even

Perlite, easily recognizable as little white rocks, is both cheap and easy to use, which is why you should reconsider using it to grow your plants. Perlite was one of the first reliable hydroponic growing mediums available to the horticulture market. You have seen it in the form of hard white bits in potting soil, but perlite can be used by itself in many hydroponic systems. You can find varieties of perlite in liquid filtration systems, insulation and even soap. Growers add it to soil and soilless mixes to reduce compaction and increase drainage and aeration. The manufacturing process involves heating the raw material until it pops like popcorn, thus the porous nature of horticultural perlite. I work in the gardening industry and it’s my job to test different growing products and methods. In an effort to familiarize myself with all possible scenarios, I continue to experiment with various soil blends and all the latest and greatest hydro substrates. While perlite is often a component of these mixes, there are also benefits to using perlite by itself.

Perlite is often a component of soil blends.

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when rinsed and dried, the naturally occurring pH of 7.0 isn’t going to harm a typical indoor garden plant species.” Benefits

Unlike most growing mediums, perlite starts out neutral in pH. There is no rinsing or buffering required to correct pH. Simply adjust the solution and water it in. Perlite will take on the acidity or alkalinity of the liquids that saturate it. Even when rinsed and dried, the naturally occurring pH of 7.0 isn’t going to harm a typical indoor garden plant species. While it’s true that perlite is a non-renewable resource (volcanic rock), the supply on our planet is quite extensive. The current amount is expected to last hundreds of years. For me personally, environmental concerns are also a factor in choosing perlite. It’s easy to reuse. Recycling this medium is simpler than most others currently available. Perlite doesn’t hold onto nutrients the same way as soil, rockwool, coco coir or even clay pebbles. You can reuse any of those mediums if you choose, but perlite can be cleaned in a matter of minutes, not days. When removing root balls, the medium falls away gently with a shake. Simply remove all visible organic matter (mostly roots) and rinse the perlite until the runoff measures less than 150 ppm. If you need to sterilize the used perlite, just soak it in a 10% bleach solution. After 20 minutes of soaking, rinse thoroughly. Rain, dehumidifiers and reverse osmosis filters are always the preferred sources for rinse water. Actually, those are the best sources of water for most indoor garden applications.

perlite revisited

Perlite is available in a variety of sizes and configurations.

There are even more benefits to using perlite in your grow space. It is one of the cheapest growing mediums you can find. It’s so lightweight that you can easily lift four cubic feet of it without straining. Plus, perlite is a staple in both traditional and hydroponic gardening, so you can find it at most garden supply stores. All of the above factors make perlite easy to acquire.

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Drawbacks

Now for the bad news. Perlite is messy. You don’t need to rinse it before mixing with soil, but you wouldn’t want all that dust in a hydro system. Perlite dust is not just a problem for pumps and tubing, but also for your respiratory system. It is listed as a “nuisance dust,” which means it can aggravate your eyes, mouth, throat and lungs.

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Perlite

dust is not just a problem for pumps and tubing, but also for your respiratory system.”

perlite revisited

If you need reliability, ease of use, ease of re-use and budget pricing, try growing your next crop in perlite.” Perlite is not considered carcinogenic, although the main component (alumina silicate) is. The research and safety information for perlite shows that it will aggravate pre-existing conditions, such as asthma, but does not directly cause lung cancer. Long-term exposure to high levels of this dust can cause a non-cancerous disease called silicosis. The bottom line: wear goggles and a dust mask. You aren’t in any serious danger, but avoid the nuisance anyway. I’ve had perlite in my eyes and mouth, and since then I wear basic protection. Some growers prefer to fill their bags of perlite with water before opening to reduce or even eliminate airborne particulate.

for best RESults

Perlite works great in net cups, and even better in fabric pots. For hydroponics, get the large grade perlite (size #3 or #4). Ebb and flow, dutch buckets, deep water culture and drip systems are all excellent methods for growing in perlite. I’ve also seen large plastic totes filled with the stuff, and the gardener watered by hand only when required. To my surprise, those plants were healthy and productive.

In Conclusion

If you need reliability, ease of use, ease of re-use and budget pricing, try growing your next crop in perlite. On a side note, there is a new soil aerator going around that may outdo perlite because it offers many of the same benefits. This new stuff is made in North America from recycled glass so it is truly a renewable resource. It looks like reddish-orange perlite. Be sure to check a local grow store for more details. Share your experiences using perlite with the editor of Maximum Yield by contacting editor@maximumyield.com 104

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

green thumb Gardening

Saving

Seeds by Eric Hopper One of the most important skills a gardener who wishes to gain self-sufficiency must possess is the ability to save his or her own seeds. Fortunately, saving seeds is pretty simple to do.

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Simply put, gardeners who save their own seeds increase their own food security. With an ever-rising number of hybrid and genetically modified crops (that either have infertile seeds or seeds that are legal property of a corporation), it is imperative to our future security that we keep heirloom varieties in existence and we continue to preserve our own seeds. Anyone who has the ability to grow plants can master preserving their own seeds. The first thing any gardener who wishes to save seeds must do is to grow heirloom varieties and not hybrids or GMOs. It is also important to avoid multiple varieties of a plant in the same area of the garden with the exception of tomatoes, which are self-pollinating. Different varieties of plants in the same area can be crosspollinated by insects, causing them to create offspring with unknown traits. Some plants, like peppers, can be inadvertently cross-pollinated by insects. Varying species must be separated by 500 ft. to ensure a pure offspring. Other plants, like squash, cucumbers, gourds and melons, need even more space than peppers. Because these plants rely solely on insects to pollinate, they need up to a half a mile to ensure no cross-pollination occurs. For the seed saver with limited space, it is best to choose one variety of each plant species that is known to do well in the given climate.

Saving Tomato Seeds Harvest several ripe tomatoes from several plants of the same variety. Slice open the ripe tomatoes and squeeze or pour the seeds (and other innards) into a bowl. Upon close inspection you can see that each tomato seed has a clear jelly-like coating. To remove that coating you must ferment the seeds. Start by adding water at roughly half the volume of the collected seeds and juice. Stir the mixture a few times a day and watch closely. Some people choose to cover the bowl with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it for air flow, but that is optional. The surface of the mixture will soon become covered in a gray or white mold. It’s OK. In fact, if it stinks, and it probably will, you may want to find a suitable place to ferment your tomato seeds. When either a thick coat of mold has formed, or if bubbles start to rise in the mixture, you can stop the fermentation process. Add the same volume of water as the total volume of the mixture and stir. Hollow, bad seeds will rise to the surface, and good, viable seeds will sink. After the solution settles a bit, gently pour off the mold, bad seeds and as much of the liquid as you can. You can add water again to rinse off the good remaining seeds. Pour the remaining seeds and liquid through a strainer. Tomato seeds will germinate quickly so it is important to dry them right away. Place them on a baking sheet and dry with a fan gently blowing on them. Avoid drying any seeds in the sun or in the oven. Saving Pepper Seeds Pepper seeds are easy to store. Harvest ripe peppers (once they have changed color), slice open and scrape out the seeds onto a plate or baking sheet. Place seeds in a dark, dry environment until the seeds break when bent. At this point the seeds are ready to be stored until planting time.

For the seed saver with limited space, it is best to choose one variety of each plant species that is known to do well in the given climate.”

Saving Cucumber Seeds To harvest cucumbers for seeds, allow a few of your late cucumbers to become very ripe. When this happens the cucumber will change color and start to become soft. Cut the ripe cucumber in half and scrape the seeds into a bowl. In a strainer, run the seeds under water while gently rubbing the seeds with your fingers. This is the best way to easily remove the seed’s coating. Another option is to let seeds soak in water for about two days and then gently rinse. After the seeds have been rinsed and the coating has been removed, the seeds are ready to be dried in a dark, dry area. In Conclusion Few things are as imperative to self-sufficiency as the preservation of seeds for future food crops. Our modern ability to cultivate and harvest food crops is a direct result of the collection and proper storage of seeds by our forefathers and mothers. The lineage of our plants today stems from seeds that were passed down from ancient ancestors, brought over oceans and shared with friends and neighbors. Now more than ever, growing one’s own food and saving the seeds for future crops is important for the preservation of selfreliance, sustainability and the future of agriculture.

Saving Squash and Melon Seeds Squash and melons are just as easy as peppers. To preserve the most seeds from a squash, avoid cutting directly through the center. Take small slices off the side of the squash until you cut open the seed cavity. Scoop the seeds from the fibers, rinse them with clean water and place them in a dark, dry place. Melons can be done in the exact same way. Scoop, rinse and dry. Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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Carbon Dioxide

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A closer look at carbon dioxide Could carbon dioxide be the seventeenth essential plant nutrient element? It’s an interesting question that doesn’t have a definitive answer. One might argue that since both carbon (C) and oxygen (O) are already accepted essential plant nutrient elements, why should their combination also be designated? If the CO2 molecule is to be designated as an essential plant nutrient element, why not the water molecule (H2O) also? Such reasoning could be never ending. Carbon dioxide meets all the criteria for being designated as an essential plant nutrient element. By criteria, I mean the following criteria that have been accepted as proposed by D.I. Arnon and R.R. Stout in 1939: • Omission of the element in question must result in abnormal growth, failure to complete its life cycle or premature death of the plant • The element must be specific and not replaceable by another • The element must exert its effects directly on growth or metabolism and not by some indirect effect, such as by antagonizing another element present at the same level. For some, the designation as being essential as an element may be the factor that would eliminate CO2, which is a molecule, from being considered an essential plant nutrient element.

CO2 properties and characteristics

Without CO2, there would be no plant life because it is CO2 combined with hydrogen (from water) in the process called photosynthesis that forms a carbohydrate, which are the basic building block for all plant life. As with all biological systems, photosynthesis is not particularly simple in terms of how it works as well as the factors that affect its function. But, in simple terms, a molecule of H2O is split and combined with a molecule of CO2 in the presence of chlorophyll and light to form a carbohydrate as is illustrated in the following chemical equation:

carbon dioxide (6CO2) + water (6H2O) in the presence of light and chlorophyll yields carbohydrate (C6H12O6) + oxygen (6O2) Merriam Webster defines photosynthesis as formation of carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and a source of hydrogen (as water) in the chlorophyll-containing tissues of plants exposed to light. When the first product of photosynthesis was determined, it was found that there are two pathways for carbohydrate formation, one being the formation of a 3-carbon carbohydrate and the other a 4-carbon carbohydrate. From this came the designation of plants as being either C3 or C4 based on which was the first product of photosynthesis, a 3- or 4-carbon carbohydrate. Is this finding a big deal? Yes indeed. Most plant species are C3, while most grasses, which includes

“ Carbon dioxide meets all the criteria for being designated as an essential plant nutrient element.” all the major food grain crops, such as corn, wheat, rice, sorghum, etc., are C4 plants. C3 plants are quite responsive to the concentration of CO2 in air surrounding them, while C4 are less so. C3 plants are sensitive to high light intensity, are not as drought tolerant and are more sensitive to changing growing conditions both in the rooting medium and surrounding atmosphere as compared to C4 plants. Experiments have shown that in many situations, the maintenance of a constant level of CO2 in the air surrounding the plant is as important as its concentration. Therefore, air movement over plant leaves, as well as air movement into and within the plant canopy, can significantly affect plant growth and yield. Good examples are the orientation of corn rows so that the predominate directional wind currents will move down between the rows and not be impeded when having to move across the rows, and then the making of provisions for air movement up through a greenhouse tomato plant canopy rather than trying to push or pull air through the canopy. 110

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A closer look at carbon dioxide

Photosynthesis primarily takes place within leaf stomata—unique leaf structures where the exchange of water and air takes place. Guard cells surrounding the stoma control its opening and closing. When the CO2 concentration in the air surrounding the plant is high, there is danger that such high concentrations can result in the closure of stomata. At what CO2 concentration this occurs varies with other factors, but experience has shown that stoma closure is more likely to occur when the CO2 air concentration is greater than 800 ppm. It has been shown that the correlation between plant growth rate and CO2 concentration is not linear, with the rate of growth declining with each increasing increment of CO2 concentration as is shown in Table 1.

CO2 Concentration on Relative Yield of Tomatoes CO2 Concentration Ambient* 600 ppm 1,000 ppm 1,400 ppm

Relative Fruit Yield 4 Weeks 20 Weeks 100 100 179 126 235 137 254 139

*Ambient means that no CO2 enrichment was carried out that could consequently have resulted in CO2 depletion as ventilation was only used to control air temperature levels during the growing period. Table 1. The effects of CO2 concentration on relative yield (weight) of tomatoes after four and 20 weeks of harvest.

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A closer look at carbon dioxide There is an issue regarding the value for CO2 enrichment of air surrounding the plant in terms of the cost-benefit ratio, a return in increased plant growth and product yield versus the cost for the CO2 and its distribution in the air surrounding the plant and within the plant canopy. Light intensity and duration, combined with air temperature and the moisture and nutritional status of the plant, are correlated factors that will determine the extent of the CO2 effect. Therefore, just increasing the CO2 concentration of the air surrounding the plant does not automatically result in a significant increase in plant growth. Under optimal conditions the rate of photosynthesis versus the CO2 concentration of the air surrounding the plant can be significant. This was illustrated from results obtained when the CO2 concentration of the air within a greenhouse tomato canopy was being continuously monitored. Within just a few minutes at dawn, when the morning light reached the plants in the greenhouse, the CO2 concentration of the air within the plant canopy dropped by more than 50 ppm, and did not return to the atmospheric level of about 325 ppm until the ventilation fans came on. The ability of a plant to suck CO2 from the atmosphere probably has an equilibrium point, a point that will vary with growing conditions, i.e., light intensity, moisture conditions, plant characteristics, stoma status, etc. For example, how far could the CO2 concentration within that tomato plant canopy be drawn down? That level would be correlated with the rate of photosynthesis, decreasing with each increment decrease in the CO2 air concentration. It also should be noted that the air in contact with plant leaves is held in place by surface leaf characteristics as well as the surface tension properties of the leaf itself; therefore, that air is not easily displaced even when there is gentle air movement over the plant leaf surface. The beneficial effects of CO2 are well established under various circumstances, but with varying results. Simply adding CO2 to the air surrounding the plant will not automatically result in a significant increase in plant growth or product yield. Therefore, the grower needs to weigh the potential benefits of CO2 enrichment against the costs, and the probable potential for no significant effect as well as possible adverse effects.

“ just increasing the CO2 concentration of the air surrounding the plant does not automatically result in a significant increase in plant growth.”

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growing for health

by Heather Rhoades

A seedling that is too tall and too thin is considered a leggy seedling, and it's not what a grower wants to see! A seedling that is too tall and too thin won't be able to hold up well when planted, but at least there is a simple solution to prevent it from happening in the first place.

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Seed starting is an exciting time for many gardeners. It seems almost magical to place a tiny seed into some soil and watch a small seedling emerge just a short time later. But sometimes things can go wrong. We watch with excitement as the seedlings grow taller, only to realize that sometimes they’ve grown too tall and become a bit floppy. This is known as leggy seedlings. If you are wondering what causes leggy seedlings and, more importantly, how to prevent leggy seedlings, keep reading.

What causes leggy seedlings At the most basic level, leggy seedlings are caused by a lack of light. It could be that the window you are growing your seedlings in does not provide enough light or it could be that the lights you are using as grow lights are not close enough to the seedling. Either way, the seedlings will get leggy. This happens due to the natural reaction of plants to light. Plants will always grow towards a light. Leggy seedlings happen for the same reason crooked houseplants happen. The plant grows towards the light and since the light is too far away the plant tries to accelerate its height to get close enough to the light to survive. Unfortunately, there is only a limited amount of growth a plant can do. What a plant gains in height, it sacrifices in the width of the stem. As a result, you get long, floppy seedlings. Leggy seedlings are a problem for many reasons. First, seedlings that are too tall will have problems when they are moved outdoors. Because they are thin and floppy, they can’t stand up as well to natural occurrences like wind and hard rain. Second, floppy seedlings have a hard time growing into strong plants. Third, seedlings that are falling over can be more prone to disease and pests.

How to prevent leggy seedlings

As you might have guessed by now, the best way to prevent leggy seedlings is to make sure they are getting enough light. If you are growing seedlings in a window, try to grow them in a south-facing window. This will give you the best light from the sun. If a south-facing window is not available, you may want to consider supplementing the light the seedlings are getting from the window with a small fluorescent bulb placed within a few inches of the seedlings. If you are growing your seedlings under lights (either a grow light or a fluorescent light), the best way to prevent leggy seedlings is to make sure that the lights are close enough to the seedlings. The lights should remain just a few inches above the seedlings, as long as you have them indoors, or your seedlings will get too tall. Many gardeners put their lights on adjustable chains or strings so that the lights can be moved upwards as the seedlings get taller. You can force seedlings that are too tall to grow thicker by brushing your hands over them a few times a day or by placing an oscillating fan to blow gently on them for a few hours every day. This tricks the plant into thinking that it is growing in a windy environment and releases chemicals in the plant to grow thicker stems to be better able to withstand the supposed windy environment. This should not replace providing more light, but can help prevent leggy seedlings in the first place.

to prevent leggy seedlings is to make sure they are getting enough light.”

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QuackuapOnics introducing... by joseph hackenberg

Meet a man who has combined aquaponic and hydroponic growing methods to provide an ideal environment for his ducks. he’s called it quackuaponics, and it just makes sense.

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It has been said that necessity is the mother of invention. Perhaps she is also the mother of adaptation and innovation. Here is the story of how I have applied my meagre knowledge of aquaponic and hydroponic concepts and developed a system to provide fresh water and greens for my ducks. An important point to make about quackuaponics, as devised by me, is that the primary reason for using the system differs from the primary reason behind hydro and aquaponics. The first goal of quackuaponics is to provide a rough bio-filter, which discharges fresh, clean water for the ducks to use. (I am using the terms fresh and clean loosely). Of course there is the usual symbiosis; the growing of plants using nutrients trapped by the filter, along with those in solution passing through the system in the water. The growbed however, is primarily a filter.

Origins Not long ago I saw a news story about a duck farm that had been raided by animal welfare activists who videoed the poor state of the ducks. Hundreds of them in each shed languished in filth. Water to drink was provided by chicken farm style drippers. No water at all was provided for the ducks to use to wash, preen and breed in. The situation was appalling. The farmer explained that whatever water the ducks were given, they fouled and ruined immediately. There was no way the farm could provide regular fresh water to these large flocks and stay in business. I understood completely. I keep ducks. They provide eggs; they help control insect pests and provide fertilizer for the lawn and garden beds. They are also animated lawn ornaments and quite entertaining to watch.

Feathered friend helping to grow plants. Photos courtesy of author.

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quackuaponics My ducks like to have lots of fresh water, which they quickly turn foul and muddy. This filthy water they go on liking just as much, if not more so. Given that ducks will do far better with regular provision of fresh water, I go out of my way to empty and recharge their pond and other containers about the place almost daily. It is hard work, and my devotion to the ducks shows for all to see on my water bill. I had a rainwater tank installed and this helped; however, I quickly found that my 1,320-gal. tank needed to be doubled to limit using water from the city system. Slowly, my quackuaponics system began to evolve and throughout its gradual development, scalability has fortunately remained.

Duck behavior One really notable difference between quackuaponics and aquaponics would have to be hygiene. Whereas aquaponics must be clean and controlled for the sake of avoiding illness and disease for both plants and fish, quackuaponics is a filthy game. Aside from their excretions, ducks have some other dirty little habits. Here is the typical scenario: if a large tub of fresh water was placed among some ducks, with a hose running into it, allowing it to overflow at a nominal rate, the majority of the little flock would partake in the overflowing water on the ground, using it to muddle into the surrounding soil. They would grovel away with their bills and create a muddy little wetland. They consume water, sand, dirt and plant matter, and whatever else they can stir up with their bills. They use a washing process inside their bill, crop and gut to separate foodstuffs from soil and sand in a fairly haphazard way. As the sordid banquet continues, the ducks will move in and out of the tub, continuing the digestive process all the while. By way of their frolicking, splashing, washing and mating, ducks cause loads of overflow.

“One really notable difference between quackuaponics and aquaponics would have to be hygiene. Whereas aquaponics must be clean and controlled for the sake of avoiding illness and disease for both plants and fish, quackuaponics is a filthy game.”

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“Ducks are not called fowl for nothing!” In just hours, a heavy sludge will develop in the bottom of the tub. Ducks will mill through this sediment with their heads underwater, stirring it and seeking scraps of nutrition from it. This is the mode of eating the duck prefers. When I give them comfrey, lettuce, grains, layer-mash and scraps, or when a duck snatches a large grasshopper, the duck will take it to the water and make a stew from it, pulverising it with its bill, drinking and filtering the result. Indeed, emptying and refreshing the tub after one day is a dirty and smelly job. Emptying and refreshing the tub after three or four days is a putrid, disgusting smelly job. Ducks are not called fowl for nothing! Oddly enough, given a reasonable water supply, the ducks manage to do all this and remain squeaky clean. As a side note, it is quite important to maintain proper personal hygiene while working with the quackuaponics concept. You are going to come in contact with the filth. You must wash your hands. If you uproot a nice big lettuce and shake it around to free up the growmedia gravel from the root ball, it’s going to splash back into your face. Since I’ve been developing and running my system, I’ve always been in contact with the filthy aspects of the system and I’ve not yet suffered any real illness worth recalling even after regularly consuming plants and eggs from the system. To bring it back to the first goal of quackuaponics, though, it’s about taking out all these solids, dirt and sands, partially digested and undigested foods from the water, and returning the water for re-use in a reasonably clear and odor-free state. The following is an overview of my basic system.

quackuaponics

Main reservoir

Dirty water sump pump

Essentially the duck pond, this is an acrylic tub about 50-gal. Ducks mess around in here, injecting nutrients and other solids to the system.Typically the bottom is covered with a drift of fine sand—the product of the filter feeding process. The lighter solids are taken up by the system and eventually end up in the growbed and filter. I occasionally scoop the majority of this sand out and dispose of it on nearby garden beds. If I am nearby and realize the pond is about to be pumped out, I can give the water a good stir with a broom, ensuring settled matter is taken up by the pump and enters the rest of the system. In most cases though, the ducks and the discharge flow can do enough agitating for the system to work without me.

This pump is a heavy duty dirty water pump and its run times are one or two minutes per hour. It virtually empties the pond in that short time, which is not long enough to see the pump really run dry. Its specifications tell me it can take solids up to 1.37 in., and as such I expect it will take whatever matter the ducks drag into the pond, along with the odd discarded feather. It sits on the floor of the pond and it’s common to see a duck or drake ride the water level down and then take advantage of the low tide to forage through whatever sands and debris cover the pond floor.

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Settling tank The secondary reservoir is a large plastic barrel standing on end. It has a drain cock, which I have not used so far. This barrel allows for some settling, and there a decent amountgrown of sludge sitAisbeautiful strawberry using ducks hydroponics. ting on theand bottom. It was added to the system for another important reason: in summer, the water in the system ran much too hot. My big shallow growbed acted like a solar panel, and water discharging from the bed sometimes exceeded 86°F. By adding the settling tank, and more than tripling the system’s water capacity, the temperature instantly dropped and has since remained below 66°F.

quackuaponics

“In the event of otherwise catastrophic pump timer failures in the main system, this daily five-minute misting can keep all the plants alive until I return and set things right.” The settling tank is also where an automated top-up line enters the system. A big difference in comparison to a standard hydroponics system is that dilution by rain and by topping up is not an issue. My growbed is populated with compost worms, and they are working alongside the nitrobacteria, struggling to keep up with the digestible matter trapped in the bed. I have a top-up line fed into the settling tank on a timer via a float valve. This gives the system a shot of water if needed and serves another important role: allowing me to leave the system alone for days. There is a tee junction in the top-up line feeding a misting hose. This misting hose, which runs across various garden beds, is also suspended about 4 ft. above and runs the length of the growbed. Without the misting hose, the top-up line occasionally over-pressurizes and bursts free once the float valve had shut off flow. Now, the misting line runs on gentle idle until the settling tank level causes the float valve to shut off. Then the misting hose runs full force for the remainder of the time period—only five minutes total. In the event of otherwise catastrophic pump timer failures in the main system, this daily five-minute misting can keep all the plants alive until I return and set things right. In hotter months I boost this aspect of the system to two fiveminute runs, one in the morning, one in the evening.

Outflow pump This is just a little pond fountain pump. It is mounted about halfway down in the settling tank. Settling tank levels vary from just over half full to almost full when the system is running properly. The outflow pump is timed to run a few minutes after the main reservoir pump has stopped, and it is set to run for four minutes, as its flow rate is around half that of the dirty water pump. This outflow pump sends water to the top of the growbed where a buffer tank helps moderate flow.

Buffer tank and flow control manifold This is a largish plastic tub resting on the intake end of the growbed. Even though the outflow pump is the smallest in the system, the growbed may flow too slow, restricted by root proliferation and trapped solids building up, and will overflow at the top end if fed directly with enough water. 126

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The buffer tank has a rudimentary drip manifold running from it, made of drilled 0.78-in. electrical conduit. This manifold runs three quarters of the way along the growbed. It comes from a loose-fitting hole in the side of the buffer tank, and inside the buffer tank it bends to one side at a 90° angle, extending inside the buffer tank. By adjusting the elbow tighter or looser against the hole in the buffer tank, and by turning the conduit so that the open end inside the buffer tank is at a deeper or shallower in the buffer tank, outflow can be infinitely adjusted. If the elbow is loose against the hole, more water passes around the conduit and directly into the top end of the growbed. However, when the top end of the growbed is tending to overflow, I simply pull the elbow of the manifold tube more snugly into the orifice, so more water must then flow down through the manifold, dispersing neatly across the length of the growbed, avoiding overflow at the top end. To simplify, the buffer tank allows much more water to be sent to the top of the growbed during a shorter pump run.

Growbed The growbed is a tray 2-ft. wide, 16-ft. long and only 4-in. deep. The tray is lined with plastic, and the grow media is small sharp gravel. As the primary purpose of the system is filtration, there is no place for an autosiphon of any sort. The water and nutrients should pass (if possible) the full length of the growbed, which could be more correctly referred to as the filtration bed.

Joseph spending time with the ducks.

quackuaponics

I see the depth of the growbed as a short coming in the system. Growbed depth should ideally be closer to 12 in. The compromise exists because of the materials at hand when building the system and the lighter weight suits the supporting structure. The bed runs at a slight slope and a height of 4 ft. to save the plants from the ducks, and save my back as I tend to the plants. The growbed discharges into a small section of roofing gutter, which has a down-pipe, sending the discharge as a little waterfall, back to the pond (the primary reservoir). This waterfall assists with aeration, agitation and cooling, and seems very enjoyable for the ducks during their use of the pond.

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“I consider a plant to be pulling its weight in the system as long as a decent root system develops. In other words, the plant must play a part in the filtration process. If things are also going well above ground, that’s a bonus.” Plants I’ve populated the growbed with a wide variety of plants, such as various forms of basil like Greek, Thai, lemon and standard basil. There are always several types of lettuce through the bed, and most of these end up self-seeding to some extent. These are shared between ducks and humans. I have had great success growing burpless cucumbers, too. Capsicums and chillies grow and fruit well. Strawberry plants are certainly growing well, though they have not so far produced worthwhile fruit. Rockmelon vines grew well, also poorly fruiting. Other plants inhabiting the bed are cauliflower, thriving clumps of garlic chives and rosemary. I consider a plant to be pulling its weight in the system as long as a decent root system develops. In other words, the plant must play a part in the filtration process. If things are also going well above ground, that’s a bonus. One plant I have found to be unsuitable is tomatoes. These did a little too well, and the massive matted root systems gagged the growbed, restricting flow almost completely, causing the bed to overflow excessively. On the subject of roots, I seem to be able to leave any broken-off root matter in the growbed without problem. This left-over root matter rots down quickly and adds to the nutrient mix.

quackuaponics

“The aim is to shore up deficiencies in the plant’s nutrient base. It’s a difficult game but now that the growbed has matured I’m certain the system will run happily without additives.”

Additives When I first built the system and began to cycle I researched aquaponics to kick the growbed into action. I wasn’t really confident the system would work at first. The plants weren’t doing too well, probably because the nitrobacteria hadn’t yet populated, so I began to collect an array of hydrostyle chemicals and research mixing rates and ways to add them to my system. Thankfully, the system began to work, but I was left with several compounds and elements that I didn’t really need. After a while, I learned that some of them could still be useful and not harmful. I now add chellated iron, sulphate of potash, and Epsom salts all dissolved in hot water about every month to six weeks. I have recently tried adding a little of the sulphate of potash to the buffer tank. It is heavy and sits on the bottom dissolving slowly. I also add seaweed-based liquid fertilizer. The aim is to shore up deficiencies in the plant’s nutrient base. It’s a difficult game but now that the growbed has matured I’m certain the system will run happily without additives.

Other adjustments The system is fairly stable, but there are behavioral variations I need to manage, which mainly effect flow. Levels of solids and nutrients can vary wildly with the behavior of the flock as the seasons change. Differing foods are available, distractions such as mating, egg-laying and brooding arise, and flock size can vary for many reasons. The flow of solids can vary to some extent without need for adjustment. If things get too heavy though, there is a chance the growbed will overflow. A strategically placed bucket catches some of this loss, and the ducks don’t mind puddling round in what ends up on the ground. My top-up system takes care of water loss and I can decide on making adjustments to the buffer tank manifold when I see overflow appearing in the overflow bucket.

Final thoughts Though happy with my system, I’m always considering modifications and alterations. Many concepts and ideas and experiments have led to how the unit runs today, and no doubt new concepts, ideas and experiments are ahead. I’m pleased to say that the unit can be scaled up to an industrial size, and whatever I do to it, I will seek to maintain scalability. For the future I envision a duck farm complete with a sizeable collection of hot-houses producing a marketable side product of lettuce or cucumbers, as well as providing some feed and better conditions for livestock and limiting water expenses. 130

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absentee growing

“Advances in technology have made it so that you can leave your indoor garden for weeks at a time, or while holding a demanding, full-time job, and come back to a stable growing environment with increased yields.”

Gardens certainly don’t grow themselves, and indoor grows require much more attention and care than the outdoor type, which have Mother Nature’s built-in support system. Indoor gardening is a demanding hobby that sucks up a lot of time and money, can add work to your already busy life and dramatically alter your chill lifestyle. It will cause stress, takes tough decision making and a lot of space in your home. The daily, weekly and monthly rituals can seem like burdens, but the payoff is well worth the amount of effort you’ll put in. To help shoulder some of the burden, many growers automate the process to some degree, lessening the workload while allowing their gardens to thrive. Advances in technology have made it so that you can leave your indoor garden for weeks at a time, or while holding a demanding, full-time job, and come back to a stable growing environment with increased yields. This means less time worrying, less stress and improved overall efficiency and performance. More bang for your buck, if you will. While nothing can replace the constant monitoring and interaction that comes under the guidance of the human hand, an automated growroom can reduce the grower’s time commitment and increase efficiency to maximize the plants’ yield. The automated systems only perform as programmed, so if you aren’t present to monitor the changing needs of the plant, anticipate some suffering. Remember, it’s all about supplementing, not replacing, quality care. 134

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Other than the initial installation and occasional checkin to monitor your plants’ health, an automated growroom can help guarantee results with minimal effort on your part. An automated growroom can maintain a controlled environment, while reducing problems and saving time, but it’s not a replacement for the inherent quality of the human touch. Both combined, however, can leave you with an abundance of time and peace of mind knowing that your plants are being cared for when you can’t. Plainly put, an automated garden employs a combination of user-specified parameters, while operating and controlling the growing process using highly automatic methods, such as electronic or mechanical devices, which greatly reduce the need for human interaction. Some common automation means include timers, temperature or humidity controllers and CO2 monitors, with the most basic method being a timer to control the lighting. As with any technology, growroom automation is in constant flux, always changing and evolving, so there are continually new gadgets, smartphone apps and ways to check up on your plants without having to be present.

“An automated growroom can maintain a controlled environment, while reducing problems and saving time, but it's not a replacement for the inherent quality of the human touch.” But let’s first get down to basics, the essentials you’ll need to get started:

Climate control The most common of automation controllers, this umbrella term covers three factors: humidity, temperature and CO2. A climate controller (or atmospheric controller) will allow you to create an environment fit for the plants’ needs, which is achieved by keeping CO2 at ideal levels and maintaining the humidity and temperature levels. Growers with fully automated climates or atmospheres can anticipate larger yields and quicker growth thanks to the compatible environmental conditions. Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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“Maintaining an ideal nutrient balance is vital to plants' health and vitality, which leads to stronger, more bountiful harvests and plants that are less susceptible to pests and disease.” Beginners can get started with a thermostat/humidistat controller, which lets the grower control multiple devices such as fans, air conditioners and dehumidifiers by plugging them into a single controller. Proper ventilation is one of the main elements of growing that, if neglected, can ruin your investment. If your plants suffer from poor ventilation due to stagnant air throughout the growroom, the plants can consume all of the CO2 in a matter of hours. The room should include fans to circulate air, along with fresh air vented in to avoid dead zones void of CO2 that can form around the leaves. However, ventilation isn’t needed when lighting is off and your intake fans should be turned off, though you may still run them or exhaust fans for controlling the temperature. Fans can be controlled manually, by using a timer, fan controller or multi-function climate controller that also controls humidity and temperature (more on these later). Growers wanting to add CO2 can combine multiple atmospheric controllers or buy a complete controller, often referred to as a brain, that controls light timing, temperature, humidity and CO2 control. To avoid wasting carbon dioxide, automation is a key factor to increase the room’s levels. Controllers designed to enhance the room’s CO2 levels will automatically turn off or reduce exhaust fans while the device is in use. An infrared beam scans the air in the room and when the specified parameters aren’t being met, the controlling device sends power to the CO2 generator or tank, adding carbon dioxide to your garden. Controllers can also automatically turn off during the garden’s dark cycle, as they’re equipped with a photocell. It’s also imperative that the grower can set the room to an exact temperature, as an indoor growroom’s optimal running temperature increases slightly with higher CO2 levels.

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Nutrient automation For those who already have atmospheric automation on lock down and want even more relief from the daily chores of growing indoors, adding nutrient reservoir automation is the next logical step. A nutrient reservoir that is maintained by hand can be incredibly time consuming and is prone to errors given the water makeup and fluctuations in pH and EC. Maintaining an ideal nutrient balance is vital to plants’ health and vitality, which leads to stronger, more bountiful harvests and plants that are less susceptible to pests and disease. Consistency here is key, as the root zone supports and encourages life. For an automated nutrient reservoir system that needs the least maintenance, a grower should use the following connected to the source of water: a water chiller/heater, nutrient auto doser, pH auto adjuster and an auto shut-off valve. This way the grower can set the parameters for the temperature, nutrient concentration and the nutrient solution’s pH. Combined properly, climate control and nutrient reservoir automation can provide an optimal growing environment that can be tweaked to meet the plants’ needs. But there’s always something even bigger and badder out there, which brings us to the next section.

Everything automation The most advanced controller is an all-in-one growroom controller, a.k.a. a brain. These mega-gadgets can simultaneously monitor and control all sorts of growing parameters and there are even models with long-term data loggers and graphing features. You can monitor multiple growrooms using a single brain, and receive alerts when something is wrong, from anywhere in the world using a computer or smartphone.

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“When automating systems in the growroom, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the technology and slip on the basics, such as regularly tending to the plants and making sure your systems are in top shape.” When automating systems in the growroom, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the technology and slip on the basics, such as regularly tending to the plants and making sure your systems are in top shape. Here are a few things to keep in mind: ❯ Inspect your plants for overall health and moisture levels at least once a week if possible ❯ Look for pests or disease ❯ Trim and clean foliage as needed ❯ Toss and replace any dead or dying plants ❯ Replace any broken irrigation pieces ❯ Check the water tank’s levels and refill as needed ❯ Add fertilizer to the irrigation system as needed ❯ Inspect pumps and timers, clean filters weekly

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A Beginner’s Guide to

Product Labels

Part 1: Nutrient Solutions and Fertilizers

by Matt LeBannister Think you know what all those numbers on a product’s label are all about? Read on to discover what might have been deliberately left out of the equation. 140

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For any beginner gardener, walking into a local hydroponics shop for the first time can be an intimidating experience. As a former hydroponic store manager, I witnessed the looks of disbelief given by first-time patrons when confronted with a multitude of products stacked on never-ending shelves, each labeled with a set of various ingredients and numbers. They appeared overwhelmed by the massive amount of great products now available to every grower. With a bit of advice and some trust in the knowledgeable hands of your local hydroponic retailer, you can easily navigate the world of hydroponic products by understanding the

wealth of information listed on each product’s label. But always remember to keep in mind that each state, province and country has different rules as to what information must be listed on a product label and each has different rules regarding what is prohibited from being listed.

NPK The most visible numbers on plant fertilizer labels refer to the NPK levels that list the relative content or percentage of soluble nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) in the product. Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are the three

"The difference between a quality fertilizer and a mediocre fertilizer is oftentimes just the content of trace elements each one contains." most essential nutrients that plants require large amounts of for growth, hence their priority placement on all fertilizer labels. There is often confusion when we see two products with the exact same NPK ratios, yet they are priced differently. To save some money, one might be tempted to buy the less expensive product since, according to the labels, they are the same. Or are they? What people might not know is that the more expensive product, such as a bloom fortifier, could contain more than 20 ingredients that are not listed on the label, such as amino acids, citric acid and ascorbic acid. These ingredients could greatly improve your yield, yet in many areas companies are not allowed to list them on the labels or make any claims about performance. If you want a detailed list of ingredients contained in any plant fertilizer, visit the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website or give them a call. You can always consult your local hydroponic retailers who often have more info than the labels can offer.

Trace Elements Compared to NPK, trace elements are needed by plants in smaller amounts. Trace elements include zinc, copper, manganese and iron to name the most important. There is also calcium, magnesium and sulfur, which are required in slightly larger amounts. They are all essential to plant growth and development yet they are not always listed on product labels. If any of these elements are listed on a fertilizer label, they will be listed as a percentage of the overall content. The percentage will seem minute compared to the NPK listing but that is because your plants only need trace amounts of these nutrients. The difference between a quality fertilizer and a mediocre fertilizer is oftentimes just the content of trace elements each one contains.

Organics

Trying to find organic nutrient additives and fertilizers can be tricky. Many products are labeled as organic making it simple for the average consumer. Products that are listed as organic must be certified organic by an independent group, such as the Organic Material Review Institute (OMRI). This levels the playing field and protects consumers by ensuring that there is a standard by which these products are judged. The tricky part comes when you realize that there are nutrient additives and fertilizers that could very well be organic, they just have not been submitted for certification. Having a product certified organic can be a long, costly process and many small manufacturers simply cannot afford to do this. Their product may be as good and naturally organic as the certified competitor, but you would never know this by looking at the label. This is where having a conversation with Ammonium nitrate ( the knowledgeable staff at your local Calcium nitrate liquid (7 hydroponic shop pays off. They have Calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3) insight into products that goes beyond Calcium chloride (CaCl2) the label and can fill you in on what Potassium nitrate (KNO3) products will be right for you.

Monopotassium phosphate (KH

Phosphoric acid (H3PO4)

In Conclusion

Potassium chloride (KCl)

There are so many great nutrient solutions and fertilizers on the market today making choices seem endless. The hydroponic industry shows no sign of slowing down and could very well be the future of agriculture. Unfortunately, the product labels have not kept up with the growth of the hydroponic business. Just remember there is as much unsaid on product labels as is said. Have trust in the bevy of knowledge your local hydroponic retailer has gained over the years. They can help you navigate the rough seas that are fertilizer product labels.

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)

Solubor Copper sulfate (CuSO4) Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) Iron, chelated iron (Fe 330) Manganous sulfate (MnSO4) Sodium molybdate (Na2(Mo)4)

Sodium molybdate (dry) (Na2(MoO4) Soluble Trace Element Mixture (S.T.E.M.) K - potassium

279

200

400

N - nitrate NO3

196

200

N - as ammonia NH4

P - phosphorous

Ca - calcium

160

150

400

S - sulphur

333

Mg - magnesium 48

Fe - iron

0.8

0.5

Mn - manganese 0.25

0.1

B - boron

0.06

0.1

Zn - zinc

0.05

0.02

0.2

Cu - copper

0.02

0.2

Mo - molybdenum 0.04

0.01

0.1

Chlorine

350

9.5-5.67-11.3 8.2-5.9-13.6 5.5-7.97-18.4

In the next issue of Maximum Yield we will explore the equally as diverse realm of navigating grow light labels.

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bLushing by rAQueL neofiT

HYDROPONIC

TomAToes Many of us are familiar with the benefits of eating locally and seasonally. Fortunately, by taking advantage of the technology used in hydroponics, we can all enjoy high-quality produce year-round. Read on to learn more about the how’s and why’s of hydroponic growing—through the eyes of the tomato.

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Most hydroponic growers use a third less water to grow twice the amount of produce than traditional farming methods.”

Nothing beats the taste, texture and sweet juiciness of a freshly picked tomato in the height of summer. We’re all well aware of the trends and benefits of eating seasonally, but by taking advantage of the technology used in hydroponic growing practices, we can enjoy high-quality tomatoes throughout the year and avoid those that have been picked green, cold stored and manipulated into the tasteless versions that sometimes find their way onto our plates in winter and spring. There’s a reason why a blushing hydroponic tomato tastes better, is more appealing to the eye and is, admittedly, sometimes slightly more expensive than their fieldgrown cousins. It all comes down to controlling their growing environment. Glass and greenhouses are the perfect place to create the environment a crop needs to grow—and not just grow, but thrive, blossom and develop into a taste sensation that transports your tender tastebuds to another world. Even though a hydroponic truss of delights might cost a bit more per unit, you should reach to the higher shelves in your fruit shop or supermarket and pick up a truss of hydroponically cultivated tomatoes. Or, begin growing your own. A brief background on hydroponics Most of the population has a fair idea of the concept behind hydroponics—plants are grown indoors in an inert medium and are fed by nutrient-rich, pH-balanced water while the grower manipulates the indoor environment to the ideal climate for optimal growth, yield and fruit production. What makes hydroponics a preferred growing method for a lot of growers is that the nutrient-rich water is recycled through the hydroponic channels, reducing water and nutrient usage. Most hydroponic growers use a third less water to grow twice the amount of produce than traditional farming methods. Natural pest controls are generally introduced to the indoor environment, cutting out the use of hard-chemicals—controls like integrated pest management. If a pest is discovered in the local area or greenhouse, farmers introduce a new insect, one that is the natural predator of the bad bug; I like to call it the ‘bug-eat-bug’ method. If the situation is identified early and given quick attention, no insecticides are sprayed on the crops. The hydroponic farmer In the early days of hydroponic cultivation, hydroponic tomatoes received a pretty bad rap—they were tasteless, bland, pale and expensive—so many

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blushing hydroponic tomatoes consumers (and growers for that matter) avoided hydroponic crops. But as we approached the 21st century, knowledge of hydroponic practices evolved. Jump to the present day, and hydroponic growers are not only conscious of environmental impact and sustainability, but also of the importance of flavor and nutritional value. Growers have acknowledged that we have entered into a fresh-food revolution where consumers are avoiding cheap, mass-produced, poor-quality produce. Savvy consumers are buying less produce in favor of food that has a higher nutritional value, is environmentally sound, in season and tastes like it should taste. We no longer want fresh produce that has traveled thousands of miles to reach our plates, amassing more stamps on their passports than us. This is where hydroponics becomes our food savior; we can grow more produce on less land than ever before, utilizing even barren wasteland where nothing has ever grown in the past, and not only can we grow fresh and flavorful fruits out of

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We no longer want fresh produce that

has traveled thousands of miles to reach our plates, amassing more stamps on their passports than us.â&#x20AC;?

season, but because hydroponic food is grown closer to our population, we are drastically reducing our carbon footprint. What makes a hydroponic tomato better? Essential nutrients are supplied directly to a hydroponic tomato plant’s root system constantly, so the plant can conserve its energy and concentrate on using that energy to grow its budding fruits. Growers can cater to the specific growing requirements throughout a plant’s life cycle on a daily basis and give the plant the right nutrients at the right time, depending on where the plant is at in its growth cycle. A tomato requires different levels of nutrients when it’s in the fruit producing stage, for example. Because of this, nutrient levels are tested daily so the grower knows exactly which nutrients the plant is receiving; it’s much harder to control nutritomatoes will stop ent levels in the naturally ripening ground. and lie dormant until Hydroponic the temperature is tomatoes are never picked green and increased.” stored in a cool room because hydroponic growers understand that to produce superior fruit they must be ripened on the vine for ultimate flavor, sweetness and juiciness and to develop a rich and invigorating color. Then we come to production—the yield far outweighs that of field-grown tomatoes with small to medium commercial growers looking to yield a minimum of around 88 lbs. per square foot and large growers looking for yields as much as 132 lbs.

At 39°F,

Longevity Hydroponic tomatoes can have a fresh and happy shelf life of up to two weeks once harvested if you store them correctly. The optimal holding temperature for a tomato sits at 55°F, making a refrigerator the worst possible home for them because the cold kills the cells in the fruit, in turn reducing the flavor of the tomato. Store them the cupboard or in a fruit bowl on the counter. Green picking There are a couple reasons field growers pick tomatoes green. A ripe tomato’s worst enemy is over-handling, whereas green tomatoes travel better and are less likely to bruise in transport or with constant handling. The problem here is that the flavor and juiciness of the tomatoes hasn’t had Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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blushing hydroponic tomatoes

It is a tomato’s vine that holds the aromas

and essential oils that give off that particular scent we associate with a ripe, fresh tomato.”

enough time to fully develop and the end product will never be as sweet and delicious as fruit that is picked closer to ripeness. Those in the industry call this procedure cold flick. The fruit will continue to ripen naturally unless some crafty transport company or supermarket needs the shelf life extended, then at that point they’ll cold-store them. At 39°F, tomatoes will stop naturally ripening and lie dormant until the temperature is increased. Aroma Head down to your local supermarket or farmers’ market and find some field-grown tomatoes and a truss of hydroponic tomatoes. Pick them up one at a time and breathe in their aroma. The scent of the hydroponic bunch will fill your senses and be far more aromatic than the fieldgrown variety—that’s if you can even detect the scent of the field-grown variety. This all comes back to hydroponic tomatoes being left to ripen on their vine. It is a tomato’s vine that holds the aromas and essential oils that give off that particular scent we associate with a ripe, fresh tomato. The next time you come across a tomato plant, rub the stem between your fingers and you’ll be blown away by the smell it leaves behind. 148

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Growers know Chris Burges has been growing hydroponic tomatoes for 20 years and suggests how to prune them properly. Tomatoes need to be pruned two ways, he says. First you have to prune the shoots—with every leaf there is a shoot. Afterwards, you have to prune the flowers back to as many as five if you are growing on the truss. Take the first open flower off, then prune it back to five flowers, taking note of which flowers are open because that is the order they will ripen in, he adds. If you leave eight or nine tomatoes on the truss you will have two problems. The first tomato will go soft before the last one ripens and you will end up with a lot of medium-sized tomatoes.

Worth knowing Tomatoes are a great source of fiber, foliate and vitamins A, B, C and E. They are high in lycopene and are both fat and cholesterol free. They can help control sugar levels in people suffering from diabetes. The jelly-like substance around the seeds holds the highest amount of vitamin C and is thought to alleviate people who suffer from deep vein thrombosis. So, the next time you make a salad without the seeds, don’t throw them out—eat them! For more information on growing hydroponic tomatoes, check out the book review on page 172 of this issue of Maximum Yield. Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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Preparing the next by Russell Landry

patcH Some would argue that right after the end of the harvest is when the hardest work for a grower begins, because after harvesting the current batch, it's time to immediately start preparing the patch once again.

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preparing the next patch

Getting started

One of the

best ways to improve soil fertility is to add reams of decaying plants.”

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After the harvest ends, the hardest work for a grower begins. This includes not only harvesting the bountiful fruits of your labor of love and removing, cleaning and storing seeds from your many progeny, but also preparing your garden patch for the next growing season. This is strenuous work and involves a strong back and unyielding determination to improve your garden soil. Patch preparation for the next growing season should begin as soon as the harvest begins. The most important of these chores involves soil preparation. Incorporating large amounts of organic matter into the garden greatly enables the grower’s chances for larger yields. Boosting organic matter levels beyond 6% will satisfy the growth requirements of most plants. It is not uncommon that well-worked plots often achieve organic matter levels greater than 10%. Healthy, fertile soil is an organic mixture of decaying plant materials and water, air and mineral nutrients. Organic matter consists of decomposing plant and animal material. One of the best ways to improve soil fertility is to add reams of decaying plants. Building organic matter is a slow process. Native soils in many regions, including most of North America, are composed of only 3 to 5% organic matter, while some growers strive to maintain levels approaching 10% or more. The yearly battle to supplement and then replenish the soil’s organic matter is a never-ending chore. Bacteria and microbes continuously consume these materials in a cycle referred to as the soil food web. Organic matter added to the soil raises the soil’s cation exchange capacity (CEC) or simply its nutrientholding capacity. This factor, along with organic matter’s ability to hold more water and oxygen, greatly profits the soil and can tremendously boost yields. Helping poor soils, either sandy or clay-based, by increasing organic matter improves the soil by providing a naturally enhanced supply of nutrients in an easy-to-open storage can. Tilth or bulk density is also assisted by changing the soil’s structure. Organic matter binds or clusters the soil together making it easy to dig. This factor, along with the organic matter’s ability to hold more water and oxygen, greatly increases the soil’s fertility.

Soil testing Begin any preparations by taking soil samples and determining a baseline for future reference. The importance of a soil test cannot be understated. While organic matter can be added at any time, you need to know the current standing of your soil. This helps to determine if any additions are required to lend a helping hand in modifying the soil’s many nutrient components. Discerning the soil’s current levels of organic matter and its CEC helps determine what is needed. Next, the soil’s pH level is determined, then the major nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K), then the macronutrients of calcium and magnesium, and, finally, the minor nutrients such as iron and manganese. Vegetables grow best in a pH range from 6.5 to 7.2 with 6.8 thought to be optimal for most. Any discussion about soil nutrient levels is complex. Recommendations listed in your lab report will provide a good base of support. Many growers tend to push soils that are high in NPK. Calcium (Ca) is considered a major nutrient when growing most fruit and vegetables. Plants use Ca in late summer as the fruit begins to expand and develop. Maximizing its uptake during this time can greatly reduce the incidence of blossom end rot, splitting and pitted or catfacing of fruit. A soil supplemented with Ca often requires additions of gypsum or calcium magnesium sulphate. It is important to note that many local conditions will leave soil deficient in Ca despite high ppm levels overall. This is often caused by insoluble calcium bicarbonate molecules tying up the vital macronutrients, rendering it useless to the plant’s roots.

Organic matter Working in a minimum of 4 in. or more of well-rotted organic matter will pay off with big dividends. Materials such as grass clippings, leaves, yard waste and compost are the most readily available supplements for urban and rural growers. Other manures can be added as well. Cow, chicken, horse, sheep and rabbit manures are some of the most popular choices. Fresh sources of manures should be avoided until harmful nitrogen is consumed by bacteria or leached out. Instead use older manures as they are usually free of most weed seeds and contain less ammonium nitrate. Fresh, ripe manures cause wild top growth and poor fruit set.

The importance of a soil test cannot be understated.”

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Certain grasses,

grains and legumes are used in gardening to gain an advantage on Mother Nature.”

An application of these types of organic matter into the top 18 to 24 in. of your soil is most advantageous for many reasons. Chiefly, the new additions are able to lift the soil’s organic matter percentage and raise its nutrient-holding capacity while increasing the oxygen content and the water holding potential of your soil. Many organic manufactured products are now available and are of great advantage to many small plot and indoor growers. Products such as organic fertilizers and pelletized composts are great ways to encourage healthy garden and greenhouse practices. Other more common bagged supplements include kelp meal, alfalfa meal and corn meal. Kelp and alfalfa meal add natural rooting hormones. Corn meal aids in disease fighting capabilities. All three add some nitrogen as well.

Soil conditioners Humic acid is another great way to improve the soil’s CEC. In sandy soils, it can quickly and permanently raise the CEC. Humic acid is a natural by-product of thousands of years of organic matter decay. The result is a blackened, porous structure that lasts a lifetime in the soil. The porosity of the humic acid particles brings with it a great chelating or holding power for nutrients, water and oxygen. Other popular products used to enhance soil are perlite, vermiculite and peat moss. All work in similar ways to augment the top soil. Jersey greensand is another supplemental product. Considered a soil conditioner, it will raise the calcium levels of soil and it can permanently raise CEC while adding some minor amounts of potassium to the top soil. Other more common soil supplements include sulphur (S), gypsum, lime, or dolomite limestone and magnesium (Mg) sulphate or Epsom salts. 154

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Important tips on adjusting pH 



  

Sulphur is used to lower pH slowly as bacteria break it down, releasing acids Aluminum sulphate dramatically and instantly lowers pH Gypsum is used to maintain pH, adds Ca and S and improves tilth Lime (calcium carbonate) raises pH and adds calcium Dolomite limestone raises pH and adds Ca and Mg Magnesium sulphate adds Mg and S while lowering pH moderately

Cover crops Adding new biomass to the soil is a natural off-season step that is becoming more common. Certain grasses, grains and legumes are used in gardening to gain an advantage on Mother Nature. Cover crops begin to get the mixture working prior to planting. They protect the soil from wind and water erosion while conserving moisture and preventing weed germination. The organic matter contribution is an added benefit to the soil as certain types of crops can extract nutrients from the soil and leave them in readily available forms for quick uptake by the plants once they are ploughed back into the soil. Some types of cover crops pull nitrogen from the air (fix nitrogen), while others consume nitrogen. The fixers help put atmospheric nitrogen back into the soil while the consumers conserve and prevent leaching of the elements to the surrounding watershed. When rototilled back into the soil they give back the nitrogen. Good cover crops for a fall planting include winter wheat, winter rye and oats. They are fast growing and relatively easy to rototill. They do not fix nitrogen

but they are fast growing and add organic matter quickly. These essential crops can be sown during most times of the year. They can store large amounts of nitrogen from the soil for use in the next growing season. Broad leaf crops like buckwheat and Sudan, martin or sorghum grasses are best planted in spring or early to midsummer. If you have an open area during August due to lost plants or early harvest, it might be a good idea to get buckwheat or one of the others up and growing. The benefits are rapid growth and phosphorus fixation from the soil. Frost intolerance makes this a good rotational crop when combined with tilled early spring legume crops that fix nitrogen. Many growers are taking advantage of phosphorus fixation by planting buckwheat after the last frost and ploughing it down before planting vine growth crops such as cucumbers and melons. Legume crops like vetch and clover fix nitrogen but generally require a spring or summer planting.

Bacteria and fungi Beneficial bacteria, fungi, earthworms and a host of other organisms thrive on the addition of organic matter and the fresh carbon it brings along for the ride. Healthy garden patches depend on good microbial activity to provide a constant and steady supply of nutrients to vigorous plants with burgeoning root systems. The microbes feed on the tasty morsels you add in the form of organic matter and begin to leave behind nutrients in the soil that can be quickly absorbed by the plant’s developing root system. It is also important to feed the bacteria with sugars. High fructose products are best and include molasses, corn syrup and maple syrup. Bacteria will thrive when fed often with these sugary blends. Inoculation of cover crop roots at planting with beneficial endo-fungi and bacteria like nitrogen-fixing azospirillium is considered to be of major importance. Deep rooting Sudan grasses are thought

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preparing the next patch to allow for overwintering of fungal spores. Flourishing resident populations of bacteria and fungi results in time and money savings while reducing the need to re-inoculate crops. There you have it, basic soil preparation in a nutshell. Treat the soil with kindness and a jungle-like green canopy will be the reward for your efforts. As the shoots begin to poke into the shimmering sunshine, it is important to remember the beginning of the next season starts at the end of each prior growing season. Well-balanced soil is the key component in growing for maximum yields. Soil preparations always start with hard work and determination to improve the garden’s production. Building your soil is a continuing process that never ends. Organic matter is consumed at a fast pace during the growing season. Annual replenishment is required to unlock the right combination of desire and skill involved in increasing your harvest. Consider the information above as your future guide to a great garden, and always remember that the green is keen, but it’s what’s underneath that makes a difference because bigger roots mean bigger fruits.

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Starting up your aquaponics system (cycling) is a straightforward process if you know what to look for and have a procedure to follow. In a nutshell, you add ammonia to your aquaponic environment and over time, naturally occurring, nitrifying bacteria find your system, establish themselves and proceed to convert the toxic ammonia first to nitrites and then to harmless nitrates. Fish are the obvious source of ammonia to cycle your system since their waste is the eventual fuel that feeds any aquaponics system. Fish excrete ammonia through their gills during their respiratory process, which if left unchecked, will increase in concentration and will eventually poison the fish. The alternative is called fish-less cycling—getting ammonia into your system by some means other than from fish. This technique has a few major advantages. First, there is much less stress involved (for you and the fish) because you are not trying to keep anybody alive during the process. Because of this, you need be much less concerned about pH since the pH must only be kept in a range that facilitates cycling without consideration for the safety of the fish. Second, because you can elevate the ammonia concentration to a higher level than would be safe for fish, you can cycle your system in much less time (generally 10 days to 3 weeks versus 4 to 6 weeks when you cycle with fish) and end up with a more robust bacteria base once you are cycled. The practical result of this is that you can fully stock your tank once cycling is complete, versus gradually increasing the stocking levels as is recommended when cycling with fish. This is especially beneficial to those who are growing aggressive or carnivorous fish because they are less likely to attack each other if everyone is introduced to the tank at the same time. Finally, you can more precisely control how much ammonia is added to your system during the process. For example, if you see that your ammonia level is creeping up to 8 ppm, but no nitrites have shown up yet, just stop adding ammonia for a few days and let the bacteria catch up. You can’t do this with fish!

There are several ways to add ammonia to your system, ranging from the obvious to the slightly bizarre. I will talk about the pros and cons of each, and you can decide for yourself which makes the most sense to you.

Liquid Ammonia

This is the old-fashioned cleaning product your grandmother used, which filled the room with the smell of ammonia. Only use it if you can find the pure form that is made strictly out of ammonia (usually 5 to 10% by weight) and water. Avoid anything with perfumes, colorants, soaps, surfactants or any other additives. Shake the bottle. If it foams or if it doesn’t list the ingredients or say clear ammonia, pure ammonia, 100% ammonia or pure ammonium hydroxide, leave it on the shelf.

“if you see that your ammonia level is creeping up to 8 ppm, but no nitrites have shown up yet, just stop adding ammonia for a few days and let the bacteria catch up.”

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Cons–It can be hard to find if you don’t have a cleaning supply or a good hardware store nearby. I’m told it is entirely unavailable in Australia since 9/11 because of the remote association as a possible ingredient in bomb making.

Ammonium Chloride

This is the same concept as the liquid ammonia, but you can find ammonium chloride (crystallized ammonia) through aquaponics stores, aquarium supply stores, soap supply stores, photography supply stores and chemical houses. Pros–Because it is very concentrated and in dry form, it is inexpensive to ship. If you get the kind intended for aquaponics and aquariums, there will be little doubt that it is pure and will work in cycling. Cons–There will be some cost involved and it is sometimes hard to find in small quantities.

Human Urine

The hardest part of cycling with pure ammonia can sometimes be finding the ammonia. Try your local hardware store, cleaning supply store or even well-stocked super stores. If all else fails, you can order it online. Pros–It is relatively inexpensive (approximately $20 for a gallon) and what you don’t use to cycle your aquaponics system can be used to clean your windows! Plus, you know exactly what you are adding to your system with this product—ammonia and water, nothing more, nothing less.

Otherwise known as humonia or peeponics, adding human urine to an aquaponics system may sound gross. But when you think about it, human urine is actually an excellent source of ammonia just as the waste product from any animal would be. Human urine is just easier to capture. Here is the catch: to go from urea to ammonia, you should put it into a sealed bottle for a few weeks to percolate. Can you just urinate straight into the fish tank? Sure, but the problem is that since that urine will take a while to convert into ammonia, you will have no way of telling just how much potential ammonia you have in there. The levels will read very low and then all of a sudden one day they will explode.

“the humonia

approach creates a more complex biological environment than pure, synthetic forms of ammonia and thus introduces some risk to the cycling process and the health of your system.”

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A final concern around humonia is that there may be bacteria or germs in your digestive system that could be harmful to the fish or the nitrifying bacteria. In general, the conversion to ammonia in that sealed container will destroy most of this. However, the humonia approach creates a more complex biological environment than pure, synthetic forms of ammonia and thus introduces some risk to the cycling process and the health of your system. Pros–This is a free and readily available source of ammonia. Cons–There is the yuck factor—you have to store the urine until it converts to ammonia—and there is a possibility that harmful bacteria or germs from your digestive system are transmitted to your aquaponics system.

Other sources of ammonia

As animal flesh decays it lets off ammonia. I saw a suggestion on a forum once for cycling your system using a bit of dead fish, but dismissed this concept as too bizarre. Then I was testing one of my fully established, rock solid tilapia systems with a group of people who had just taken a class from me and were learning about maintaining their system. Imagine my embarrassment when the ammonia reading was off the chart. Turns out a fish had died in the back corner of the tank and hadn’t floated to the surface. Pros–This is another free and readily available source of ammonia. Cons–Again, because other bacteria and chemical compounds are given off during the decay process, there is a chance that you will introduce something undesirable to your aquaponics system, not to mention the chance of attracting flies or other insects that want to assist in the decomposition. The other issue is that it will be difficult to control how much ammonia gets into your system with this method.

“to Add ammonia yo

ur fish tank until yo u get an ammonia readin g between 2 and 4 ppm.” of ammonia in 100 gal. of water. It will take about 5 tsp. of 10% clear ammonia to reach the same target of about 3.4 ppm. Given these two data points you can extrapolate about how much ammonia you should add for the volume of water you are cycling based on the strength of the ammonia you are using. If your tank is larger than 200 gal. you can add more than a teaspoon of ammonium chloride at a time. To gauge how much, note that a teaspoon of ammonium chloride powder in 200 gal. of water will give about 3.4 ppm of ammonia. If you are using a 10% aqueous solution, adjust accordingly per the instructions above. If you are using powder, let the powder mix run through the system for a couple of hours just to be safe and then re-test ammonia. A liquid will integrate more quickly.

Instructions for Fishless Cycling

Once you have identified your source of ammonia you are ready to start the cycling process. Just follow these simple instructions:

Initially

Add ammonia to your fish tank until you get an ammonia reading between 2 and 4 ppm. If you have a fish tank that is smaller than 100 gallons, I recommend adding only ½ a teaspoon, or less, at a time, then testing. Half a teaspoon of ammonium chloride (a powder) should give you close to 3.4 ppm

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s d you n a a o soon se to zer ou are

“nAitrsites drop tvoelcsloof nitratfeissh, .y”

nd le le y to add a b a a i r n u ammo eing meas d and read are se fully cycle

Every day thereafter until your system is cycled: If you add too much ammonia (i.e. the ammonia test shows more than 6 ppm), drain some of the water in your tank and dilute the remaining tank water with fresh water. NOTE: If you see zero ammonia in your test you may have added far too much and overwhelmed the test. Try re-testing with a highly dilute sample of your tank water.

• Test your water for ammonia, nitrites, and pH levels and record them. • Adjust pH to get it back to 7.0 to 7.8 if necessary. A pH level of up to 7.8 during cycling is fine as long as you have not planted your system yet. The nitrifying bacteria actually prefer a slightly basic environment. • Add ammonia to get the ammonia level back to 2 to 4 ppm if it has dropped (if it has, that is good news—it means that nitrifying bacteria has found your grow bed and begun eating your ammonia). • If you are seeing measurable amounts of nitrites, then start measuring nitrates as well. Nitrates are the next step in the cycle. As soon as ammonia and nitrites drop to close to zero and you are seeing measurable levels of nitrates, you are fully cycled and ready to add fish. Once you have added fish you can stop adding ammonia—the ammonia from the fish waste replaces the ammonia you have been adding to feed the new bacteria. At this point you can also add plants. Once the plants are in your system you should start targeting a pH level of 6.8 to 7.0 because the plants require a lower pH than the bacteria in order to take up nutrients. More on how to adjust pH for aquaponics in upcoming articles.

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163

TAKING CONTROL USING

CONTROL SYSTEMS

by Sanjay Kumar Rajpoot

Right now there is a newer type of technology practically becoming essential for growing. All in all, control systems are a part of the indoor gardening industry that free up time and money for the average grower while allowing them to see bigger grows. Control systems are made up of three key elements.

WHAT’S YOURS MADE OF?

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control systems

Control systems are common place in almost every industry and market. They are used in our microwaves, televisions, ovens, toasters and refrigerators, which are some of the simple uses of control systems, but of course there are neater applications, like in our beloved Star Wars characters R2-D2 and C-P3O, in aerospace navigation and airplanes, as well as in rockets and medical surgical robots. But whether it is practical, or just for fun, any control set-up involves three key elements.

Control systems Sensors

Sensors are the items we place all over the place to get information. For use in our surroundings, this could be photon sensors or humidity sensors, and on our bodies this could be our eyes and ears, or our sense of touch.

other science happening outside of putting together equipment and tools to create a control system, and this is the science of algorithms. These mathematical formulas act as the sorcery or the magic that makes our entire systems work.â&#x20AC;?

Actuators

Actuators are the part of the system that get all the action (pun intended). For example, these range from ballasts and CO2 burners, or they could be motors in your car when cruise control is activated, or the muscles in your arm when you swing away from a bug bite.

algorithm that then computes the output and sets the entire system that is being controlled into action to combat whatever disturbance was sensed. For our bodies, obviously this is our brain. For our growrooms, things are a little less complex and the controller becomes our microcomputers, or our fellow gardeners.

Controllers

Control Schemes

Controllers are quite literally the brain of the entire operation. Controllers take the input data from sensors and put it through a control

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There is a whole

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; September 2013

There is a whole other science happening outside of putting together equipment and tools to create a control system, and this is the

science of algorithms. These mathematical formulas act as the sorcery or the magic that makes our entire systems work. Whenever we have a sensor that lets us know that something has changed, that signal is converted into a number or string of numbers that flows into the controller. The controller has an algorithm that takes this number and checks how the system needs to change to get rid of this sensed trouble. Once it is done it sends it back out into the system and towards the actuator. The actuator then acts on the new signal to correct the disturbance and then the sensor should read its set-point before the disturbance. This is just one cycle of what the control system goes through, and it is happening as much as 100,000,000 times a second in things like aircraft homing missiles, and in our brains. Controllers for hydroponics do it a couple of times a second (up to 10,000) because the need for nanosecond accuracy is just a bit much for our plants.

Equipment

In a growroom the main variables that need to be controlled are CO2, lighting, humidity, root-zone temperature, greenhouse or growroom temperature, nutrients and pH levels in our growing solution. To control these, we have to set up sensors for each. The standard sensors are things like pH sensors or TDS/EC sensors and these let us know how our growing solution is doing. As for lighting, we can use a standard photon flux meter or a spectrometer if we really want to get into the complexity of tailoring light so that our plants can think they’re in Africa during one part of a grow and in the South American jungle in another.

Lighting in a

growroom is among the simplest things to control because all we really need to do is turn lights on or off to change the total light period and plan our lighting according to what stage plants are in during their lifecycle.”

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control systems

All in all,

control systems are a part of the indoor gardening industry that make our lives easier and allow us to watch ourselves get bigger grows and do more with our time and money than allow error to ruin our plants.”

Other equipment that is needed is a little bit harder to find, but for things like humidity and CO2 we use chemically reactive sensors that give us electrical signals that change with concentration to let us know how our growroom variables are doing.

Lighting

Lighting in a growroom is among the simplest things to control because all we really need to do is turn lights on or off to change the total light period and plan our lighting according to what stage plants are in during their lifecycle. For this set-up we really just need a controller. Our actuator is a relay and the algorithm we use is a simple boom-boom control system that turns the system on or off based on the time inputs we give it.

Humidity

A little more complex than light, we have to be able to control the amount of water in the air around our growroom and this is no simple task. For a large growroom there can be huge differences in the amount of water in the air from one side of the room to another. If you can imagine a wave of mist moving from one side of the room to another, you can imagine that if the system only had

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one sensor on one side of the room, the humidity could be perfect on one side and absolutely dry on another. This sort of variable needs multiple sensors across the room if a large growroom is involved.

CO2

Like humidity, this variable is hard to control because of the volatility of gasses and the fact that unless vent fans or channels to direct flow are used, it is going to be difficult to get even coverage throughout a growroom or a greenhouse. For this reason we usually put our sensor far from our actuator and in many cases in a centralized or opposing area of the room so that if we are only using one sensor we know that it is giving us a really accurate reading of where the entire room is at.

Nutrients and pH

These are the most complex variables in our plants’ grow cycle. This is the food that we give our plants to grow and we really need to take a visit back to Goldilocks to appreciate why. First off, too little nutrients will starve our plants so they won’t be able to grow. Second, too many nutrients and our plants will not be able to eat them. But, when we make sure that pH and nutrients are just right for growth and made appropriate for that stage in the growth cycle, then we have a happy plant that grows quick, which is just right!

A final note

All in all, control systems are a part of the indoor gardening industry that make our lives easier and allow us to watch ourselves get bigger grows and do more with our time and money than allow error to ruin our plants. Control systems are an emerging tool for all growers and it is recommended that growers keep up with the pace of these evolving products, which are quickly becoming essential.

“

Maximum Yield connects us directly with those that matter most: growers, retailers, manufacturers and some very strategic distribution partners. Thank-you Maximum Yield for your commitment to the industry and all those in it.” - RUSS CUNNINGTON, FUTURE HARVEST

Maximum Yield Maximum Results

250.729.2677 Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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thinking Students involved in online grocer FreshDirect’s inaugural Green Angel Fund challenge to design the nation’s most innovative hydroponic garden showcased their projects at the San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo in July.

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green Designing and building an innovative hydroponic garden is not part of your typical high school curriculum, but that’s just what students at two different schools did this year. Online grocer FreshDirect’s inaugural Green Angel Fund challenge pitted students at the Sustainability Workshop School in Philadelphia against the John V. Lindsay Wildcat Charter School in the Bronx to create the best hydroponic garden based on yield and eco-friendly design. Judges couldn’t

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choose one winner from the two resulting projects—a vertical garden and a shipping container converted into a greenhouse—and students from both schools went to Maximum Yield’s San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo July 27-28, where they were featured as special guests. The students presented their gardens and had the opportunity to meet with industry leaders in hydroponics to discuss models for sustainable agriculture.

erent vendors ff di y an m w ho e ev li be t no d " I coul indoor farming. in ed lv vo in e ar ts uc od pr d an w many career It really opened my eyes to ho dustry. " in is th in e ar e er th s ie it un rt oppo “People were really amazed to hear that we were growing vegetables in a shipping container,” said Sustainability Workshop student Shernice Hernandez. “It was great to get our information out to so many indoor gardeners.” Matthew Williams, another Sustainability Workshop student, found out more about numerous different technologies students can apply to their Greens-in-a-Box project. “We were able to get a thermometer and a water test kit, which will be a big help,” he said. The Bronx students said vendors made them feel at home at the expo. “All of the vendors really took us under their wing and gave us tons of advice,” said Berniya Dudley from John V. Lindsay Wildcat Charter School. “They gave us samples and offered to send us even more samples down the road. San Francisco is an amazing city and the expo was great, too.” “I could not believe how many different vendors and products are involved in indoor farming,” said Tracey Cruz, also from John V. Lindsay Wildcat Charter School. “It really opened my eyes to how many career opportunities there are in this industry.” In just three months last spring, students at both schools visited greenhouses in FreshDirect’s supply chain to see best farming practices first-hand and then designed and built their own hydroponic gardens with the help of $10,000 each from FreshDirect. The schools were chosen based on innovative curriculum and a focus on solving real world problems in an urban setting and students didn’t disappoint. The Sustainability Workshop students converted a shipping container into a greenhouse, in which they grew different types of lettuce and basil. Dubbed Greens-In-A-Box, the garden is capable of offering fresh and affordable produce to local communities using hydroponics. Inside the container, plants grow on a raised platform, are heated by purple LED panels and a steady stream of nutrient-infused water flows through the platform. A second growing system is on the roof and the whole garden is powered by solar panels. Students at the John V. Lindsay Wildcat Charter School went in a different direction—literally. They created a vertical garden,

often called a green wall, and window gardens that incorporate a nutrient film technique—a closed-loop system that ensures nutrients stay within the system and there is no runoff. Students grew rainbow and Swiss chard, tatsoi, red veined sorrel and purple mizuna for the first time and were able to plant, grow and eat the vegetables all within a 20-ft. span. A skylight provided supplementary lighting to the gardens and enabled students to go from growing table to kitchen to dinner table with no carbon footprint, no pesticides and no waste. In June, the schools met for the first time and presented their designs and working hydroponic gardens to an expert panel of judges made up of leaders in the food, farming and environmental space sectors. Students were judged on how many varieties of fruit and vegetables they were able to grow; management of operating costs; unique attributes of the gardens, including mobility and materials used; garden yield; eco-friendliness; nutrient management; and taste. The panel declared the competition a tie. “After much deliberation, the judges decided the students’ gardens were equally innovative, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to reward all of these students for designing such incredible, practical solutions for sustainable agriculture,” said David McInerney, FreshDirect co-founder. “We can’t wait to continue this challenge year after year, and tap into our youth to help uncover how we can change the future for our farmers and anyone living in a food desert.” And to support the venture, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg made a friendly wager on which school would win the competition. Both mayors proclaimed June 11 Urban Farm Education Day. “These hard-working students have demonstrated that young people are key not only to creating greener practices, but also to get us all thinking about how to eat and grow fresh, healthy foods,” said Nutter. “The John V. Lindsay Wildcat Charter School students make our city proud and they truly take our commitment to launching school agriculture programs to the next level,” added Bloomberg. Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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book review J. Benton Jones, Jr.’s

Instructions for Growing Tomatoes in the garden and greenhouse

Want to grow a full-flavor tomato fruit? A new book from Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr. called Instructions for Growing Tomatoes in the Garden and Greenhouse outlines how to do just that. If you’re an avid reader of Maximum Yield magazine, you’ll most certainly be familiar with the name Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr. He’s been an active contributor to the magazine for many years and always provides a welcome range of scientifically sound articles. His newest book is available in soft cover and for electronic readers through amazon.com and is dedicated to those who want to grow a juicy, full-flavor tomato fruit that is unblemished and cosmetically appealing. Also included in Instructions for Growing Tomatoes are the requirements for maximizing the number and weight of fruit produced, whether the tomato plant is to be grown in soil, an organic soilless mix or hydroponically. These instructions are based on proven practical experience and the latest technology by the author himself. The book is a Dr. J. Benton basic text on Jones, Jr. has tomato plant more than physiology, its 50 years of fruiting habits and experience those factors that growing plants relate to high fruit hydroponically. yield and quality. He is an Emeritus But first, the Professor at the book begins with University of Georgia, Athens, a history lesson and has authored more than eight books and a few random and written plenty of articles for magazines facts about that deal with hydroponic issues. He tomatoes, which currently has his own consulting company, botanically are a Grosystems, Inc. Dr. Jones currently lives fruit classed as a in Anderson, South Carolina. He’s also small berry having online at hydrogrosystems.com and first originated in growtomatoes.com 172

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the coastal strip of South America in the 1500s. The reason they are classified as vegetables dates back to 1893, as J. Benton explains. The United States Supreme Court deemed tomatoes a vegetable so that they would fall under the Tariff Act and could be taxed as a vegetable. The court argued tomatoes could be deemed a vegetable because they were mainly consumed during dinner alongside other vegetables, and not afterward as typical of many fruits for dessert. Now, tomatoes are one of the most common garden fruits (vegetables?) grown in the United States. Commercially, the United States accounts for 35% of the world’s tomato supply with California accounting for 90% of the country’s production. Although tomatoes have several unique requirements and are not considered a hardy plant, the cycle of a tomato, from planting to market maturity, takes just 50 to 65 days, slightly longer for late varieties. In subsequent chapters, J. Benton talks about tomato lighting requirements, major element requirements, micronutrient requirements and rooting media selection, with a whole lot of good-to-know information found in between. Separate sections of the book are dedicated to growing tomatoes outdoors vs. indoors, and at the end of it all, the author talks about his own experiences growing the fruits, which he started doing more than 60 years ago. “During the summer of 1950, I successfully grew several tomato plants in a large sandbox using a home-made nutrient solution to supply the required plant nutrient elements. This supplied the family with plenty of fresh tomato fruit during the summer, and this began my interest in hydroponics, which has continued to this day,” J. Benton writes. As a highly experienced grower, J. Benton certainly knows what he is writing about and has penned several other books on the subject. He is willing to share full-color copies of any of the images appearing in his books to readers who write to him and request them. If you’ve been growing tomatoes for some time and have some lingering questions about the process, Instructions for Growing Tomatoes will help answer them, or, if you’re considering planting your very first seeds, this book is a great place to start and can be devoured in just a few hours.

10 facts on... by philip mcintosh

One

Phosphorus (atomic symbol, you guessed it—P), is a non-metallic element with atomic number 15. Like nitrogen and potassium, it is one of the three major plant nutrient elements.

Four

Speaking of phosphorus compounds, one of the biggest uses of phosphorus (if not the biggest) is in the production of plant fertilizers.

Seven

Three

Two

Phosphorus is kind of weird. In its pure elemental state it can exist in four distinct forms having four different colors (white, red, violet and black).

Phosphorus is highly reactive, so you won’t find elemental phosphorus laying around on earth. It is always bound up with other elements to form compounds.

Five

Phosphorus is a critical component in phospholipids that make up cell membranes. It is also found in nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), proteins and the important energy molecule ATP. Neither people, nor plants, can live without it.

Six

The phosphorus content of dried plant material ranges from about 0.1 to 1% with a critical value for many plants somewhere around 0.3%.

Young, rapidly growing plants need more phosphorus than mature ones and the need for P goes down considerably after fruit development.

Eight

The main sources of P in a nutrient solution are usually mono- and dihydrogen phosphates, or in some cases phosphoric acid.

Nine

Plants that don’t get enough phosphorus tend to grow slowly and their leaves become tinged with a purple color.

Ten

Although plants need quite a bit of phosphorus, and direct toxicity is not thought to occur, too much is not a good thing. Too much P in the soil or nutrient solution can interfere with the uptake of other mineral elements such as iron, manganese and especially zinc, resulting in deficiencies of these elements.

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talking shop

AT A GLANCE Company: Full Scale Soil & Hydro Owners: Shawn Johnson and Bryan Basinger Location: 2501 N. Business Park Fresno, CA 92727 Phone: 1-559-292-7668 Web: fullscalesoilandhydro.com E-mail: clovis@fullscalesoilandhydro.com Company Motto: “Life’s a garden, dig it!”

Full Scale Soil & Hydro was created by two guys in their late 20s who wanted to improve the amount of hydroponic knowledge available in the Fresno County area in California. Here is a bit more to this story.

The Full Scale crew from left to right: Vince, Shawn (co-owner), Jonathan, Rob (in the back), Bryan (co-owner), Jeremy, Ryan, and T.C. (store manager).

Water is the source of life. It is the beginning of everything. However, with water being a natural resource, when it’s gone, it’s gone. And, in California, most would argue farmers and gardeners get the short end of the stick when it comes to how water is distributed and how much they are allotted in the Valley. In 2011 at the youthful ages of 27 and 25, Shawn Johnson and Bryan Basinger could no longer stand back on the sidelines. They noticed a serious lack of experienced hydroponic knowledge in the Fresno County area and decided to do something about it. Soon after that, Full Scale Soil & Hydro was born.

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With so many hydroponic shops in town, Shawn and Bryan quickly found their niche in the community, as they were the only shop in town ready to go above and beyond what was to be expected. They employ knowledgeable staff and maintain a family-friendly and pet-friendly atmosphere. That's right— it is not uncommon for customers to bring in their pets on a hot Fresno day. “The first month we were open, Shawn and myself were the only staff; it was a lot of hard work and very long days,” recalls Bryan of the early days at Full Scale. “We showed up when it was still dark outside and we left when it was dark again,” says Shawn of trying to do it all by themselves in the beginning. “That’s when we realized we needed more help. But finding employees with gardening experience and hydroponic knowledge proved to be more difficult than originally thought. So, we hired some friends we have known for

Full Scale’s new shop is now 10,000 sq. ft.

“We showed up when it was still dark outside and we left when it was dark again. That’s when we realized we needed more help.” 10-plus years; friends we were positive tricky thing. One has to advertise to their we could trust with helping us and our demographic and set themselves apart brand new fledgling company become from the rest. Full Scale Soil & Hydro did a household name,” says Shawn. “We just that through local radio and televiare a family first and foremost. The sion commercials, social media outlets, Full Scale family is a bond that we are monthly customer appreciation days, absolutely proud to have with everysponsorship of local events like the 99th one here!” say Shawn and Bryan of the annual Clovis Rodeo and guerrilla marketstaff they crafted to meet the specific ing (with such things as stickers, bumper needs of the consumer. stickers, flashlights, pens, hats, shirts, Starting out with only four employees, sweatshirts, etc.). Full Scale Soil & Hydro Shawn and Bryan struggled to keep also gives back to the community that welup with demand in the ever-growing comed them with open arms by donating and changing market of consumers. large amounts of products and materials Two short years later, those same four to the Clovis Surface Water Treatment employees still work for the company, Plant for their new aquaponic facility in along with the much-needed addition of hopes of helping educate people from six more experienced and knowledgeall walks of life about the amazing world able staff members to help with all the of hydroponics and aquaponics. Shawn day-to-day stuff. The company also saw and Bryan also help the less fortunate by a building upgrade from 5,000 sq.ft. to regularly donating food and clothes to 10,000 sq.ft. to accommodate the growing Full Scale is open well needs of the consumer. into the evening. The family truly is Full Scale. One customer has even said “I feel like a kid in Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory every time I shop here!” Marketing can be a

shelters, and, just this past Christmas, they donated 50 sleeping bags to the homeless population on the outskirts of Fresno. Full Scale has quickly become a household name in the Central Valley of California. The interactive hydroponic garden located inside next to the entrance gives customers a chance to see a legitimate hydroponic garden in action to help decide before they buy. Full Scale also has an indoor soil yard with climate control to help ensure proper moisture and to curb insects. With the recent addition of an equipment check station, customers now have the ability to bring in their own pH probes, conductivity meters, HID bulbs and T-5 lamps to the trained specialist on site to ensure the equipment works properly. The store also offers home delivery to customers as a courtesy when they need to place large orders but do not have access to a truck or trailer. Not to mention, Full Scale gives out free veggies and compost tea from time to time! With their laid-back Californian lifestyle, Shawn and Bryan have proved that the underdog can, and does, come out on top. Learn more about Full Scale Soil & Hydro's stock and services by visiting fullscalesoilandhydro.com

Full Scale team working hard.

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You tell us

Tomato research and biostimulant testing in Chalkida, Greece.

Who are the people behind EZ-GRO? EZ-GRO is a family-run business. What is your company’s philosophy? Our philosophy is to be both the manufacturers of EPA, CDFA, OMRI and CFIA registered products and the researchers of new green technologies that will increase crop yields, plant health and new technologies that promote larger and faster plant growth.

. .

Tell us a little about how your company started. In what ways has it evolved? Our father started a commercial agriculture company in the early ‘90s. In the late ‘90s, my brother and I, with the help of our father’s expertise, started manufacturing high-end products for the hobby market. We noticed a niche unfilled, which led to us becoming bulk manufacturer of these products rather than branding ourselves.

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Which products are you seeing the most demand for these days? We are seeing more demand for registered organic and bio stimulant products.

EZ-GRO is a family-run company promoting a greener planet by specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of agricultural specialty nutrients and plant stimulators for all sorts of applications ranging from turfs to greenhouses. The company’s custom bulk formulations are distributed world wide. Here is Nicholas Kanellos sharing a few ways they pull it off.

How do you choose the ingredients you use in your products? What standards must they meet? For organic inputs, all ingredients are certified organic before being processed into manufactured products. For our plant growth regulator products, all actives are first registered with the EPA and CFIA and deemed safe to use in formulations.

dips and used as a vegetative growth promoter in nutrient tanks. Liquids are popular in the commercial horticulture sector. Your motto of promoting a greener planet is truly at the heart of this industry. How important do you think sustainability is to the indoor gardening industry? Sustainability is becoming predominant in all sectors of horticulture including indoor gardening. EZ-GRO is committed to helping reduce the usage of mineral synthetic fertilizers that create runoffs affecting the environment that we live in. Reduction of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides is a key pathway to improving the environment. Part of our current research is looking at organic bio polymers that enhance uptake of synthetic fertilizers reducing the amounts of the synthetic nutrients applied to the environment.

Meeting with distributors to finalize plans for construction of a new EZ-GRO plant to be built in Turkey in 2014.

Where are your products developed and in what applications are they used for? EZ-GRO has greenhouse spaces at two local universities where new ideas, concepts and actives are first tested for efficacy. EZ-GRO for the hydro industry has a close relationship with the largest hydroponic research facility in North America at Harrow Ontario. Products destined for the hydroponic sector are either tested at the Harrow facility or at university research sites. Products destined for field crop production are tested at many research stations scattered across North America. How important is variety in this industry and how do you strive to create a variety of products? Agriculture and hydroponics are like any other industry where continued new product development is essential for company and product growth across all sectors. Average marketplace duration of products is about three to five years. Products need to be continually upgraded or “freshened” to maintain market share.

“By starting your own garden, you can grow your own fresh produce and know exactly what was used to grow it.” Why do you think more individuals are taking up gardening as a hobby? More people are gardening as a hobby because they want safe, organic and healthy food. There is a growing concern that pesticides may be contaminating fresh produce. By starting your own garden, you can grow your own fresh produce and know exactly what was used to grow it and that it is safe to eat. Is there anything happening at the R&D stage you’re at liberty to tell us about? We can’t divulge too much info, but we have several new and exciting products that use new green technology. These products have passed the research and development stage and we can’t wait to see how they will have a definite revolutionary impact on the industry. Stay tuned…

. .

Why did you decide to provide your GRO-Root rooting and propagation line of products in both gel and liquid format? Gels are primarily used in the hobby industry with no control on the dose of plant hormones applied, whereas liquids can be used as dips where dose can be controlled by dilution strength and by contact time in the liquid. Furthermore, these liquids can be applied as a foliar spray rather than

EZ-GRO research facility at Queen’s University.

Aside from developing your own organic plant food, you also work with distributors to develop plant nutrition for private label. How does it work? Bulk manufacturing and private labeling is unique to each and every customer. Sometimes we propose new technologies to a customer who will brand it and sell it to their existing distribution network, or companies will approach us with an idea and use our expertise in research and development while they brand and market their product.

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ALABAMA Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Rd. Hammondville, AL 35989 256-635-0802 Hydro-Ponics Inc. (of Birmingham) 2969 Pelham Pkwy. Suite. 3 Pelham, AL 35124 205-358-3009

ALASKA Far North Garden Supply 2834 Boniface Parkway Anchorage, AK 99504 907-333-3141 Southside Garden Supply AK 12870 Old Seward Hwy., Unit 114 Anchorage, AK 99515 907-339-9997 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733 Sea of Green Flagstaff 204 East Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-7643 Home Grown Hydroponics 2401 East Baseline Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85234 480-633-2100 Ground Control Hydroponic & Garden Supplies 1392 Ocean Dr. Homer, AK 99603 907-235-1521 Northern Lights Greenhouse & Garden Supply Suite 105-9737 Mud Bay Rd. Ketchikan, AK 9901 907-225-GROW (4769) Mesa Hydroponics 1720 W. Southern Ave. Suite C7 Mesa, AZ 85202 480-969-4769 Alaska Jack’s Hydroponics and Garden Supply 1150 S. Colony Way, Suite 9 Palmer, AK 99645 907-746-4774 Peninsula Garden Supply AK 44224 Sterling Hwy., Suite 4 Soldotna, AK 99669 907-420-0401 Alaska Jack’s Hydroponics and Garden Supply 244 S Sylvan Way, Unit 25 Wasilla, AK 99654 907-373-4757 Far North Garden Supply 300 Centaur Street Wasilla, AK 99654 907-376-7586

ARIZONA Happy Harvesters Hydroponics 1400 S. Arizona Ave. Suite 11 Chandler, AZ 85286 480-857-8878

Sea of Green West 2340 W. Bell Rd., Suite 116 Phoenix, AZ 602-504-8842 Show Low Hydroponics 1400 E. Deuce of Clubs #2 Show Low, AZ 85901 928-537-4606 ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137 Home Grown Hydroponics 1845 East Broadway Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Sea of Green Hydroponics 1301 E. University Dr. Tempe, AZ 85281 800-266-4136 _________________________

Gonzo Grow 10297 W Van Buren St., Suite 8 Tolleson, AZ 85353 623-780-GROW (4769) _________________________ Sea of Green Hydroponics 402 North 4th Ave. Tucson, AZ 85705 520-622-6344 Sea of Green Tuscon East 7955 E. Broadway Blvd., #151. Tucson, AZ 85710 520-751-7745 _________________________

Tucson Hydroponics & Organics 4235 W. Ina Rd., Suite 131 Tucson, AZ 85741 520-395-2052 _________________________

ARKANSAS Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Hwy., 65 South Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Rd. Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955 Growfresh Organics & More 2900 Zero St., Suite 106 Fort Smith, AR 72901 479-648-8885

Arizona Hydroponics 3900 E Western Dr. #D Cottonwood, AZ 86326 928-649-1138

Fermentables 3915 Crutcher St. N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261

Sea of Green Flagstaff 204-C E. Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-SOGF (7643)

Anuway Hydroponics 2711 W. Walnut St. Rogers, Arkansas 72756 479-631-0099

Home Grown Hydroponics 2401 East Baseline Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85234 480-633-2100 The Hydro Closet 5826 West Olive Ave. #106 Glendale, AZ 85302 602-361-2049 The Grow Shop LLC 1733 E. McDowell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85006 602-340-7591 Home Grown Hydroponics 1838 W. Bell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85023 602-368-4005

CALIFORNIA

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A Fertile World 5565 W End Rd Arcata, CA 95521 707-825-0255 _________________________ American Hydroponics 286 South G St. Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Let it Grow 160 Westwood Center Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-8733 _________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 639 6th St. Arcata, CA 95521 707-826-9998 _________________________ Sweet Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 1041 E. Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 805-473-0004 Auburn Organic 4035 Grass Valley Hwy. Auburn, CA 95602 530-823-8900 Quail Mountain Ranch 230 Palm Ave. Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-2390 Tell 2 Friends Indoor Gardening 62 Sutherland Dr. Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-8171 Bakersfield Hydroponics Bakersfield, CA 661-808-4640 Green with Envy 3903 Patton Way #103 Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-588-8269 Kern Hydroponics 2408 Brundage Lane, Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-323-7333 Super Starts PO Box 732 Bellmont, CA 94002 650-346-8009 Berkeley Indoor Garden 844 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94710 510-549-2918 Berkeley’s Secret Garden 921 University Ave. Berkeley, CA 94710 510-486-0117 The Hydroponic Connection Berkeley 2816 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, CA 94702 510-704-9376

Advanced Garden Supply 3113 Alhambra Dr., Unit F Cameron Park, CA 95682 530-676-2100

Under The Sun 13361 East Highway 20 Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423 707-998-GROW

Sky High Garden Supply 3081 Alhambra Dr., Suite 105 Cameron Park, CA 95682 530-676-4009

G & G Organics and Hydroponics 901 W. Victoria Street Unit D Compton, CA 90220 310-632-0122

Precision Hydroponics 132 Kennedy Ave. Campbell, CA 95008 408-866-8176 Advanced Hydroponics 17808 Sierra Hwy. Canyon Country, CA 91351 Myron L Company 2450 Impala Dr. Carlsband, CA 9210-7226 760-438-2021; 661-299-1603 _________________________

San Diego Hydroponics North County Coastal 6352 Corte Del Abeto #J Carlsbad CA, 92011 760-420-8934 _________________________

The Greenhouse Garden Supply 7619 Fair Oak Blvd. Carmichael, CA 95608 916-515-9130 thegreenhousegardensupply.com _________________________ NorCal Creations PO Box 28, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 _________________________

The Hydro Shop of Cerritos 15961 S. Piuma Ave. Cerritos, CA 90703 562-653-0700 _________________________ Chico Garden Center 3028 Esplanade Ave. Unit E Chico, CA 95973 530-345-8400 Garden Connection, The 629 Entler Ave. #32 Chico, CA 95928 530-342-7762 Hydro King 2540 South Whitman Place Chico, CA 959282 530-893-GROW (4769) Grow4Less Garden Supply & Hydroponics 320 Trousdale Dr., Suite L Chula Visa, CA 91910 619-425-GROW Mothers Earth 871 Harold Place. #108 Chula Vista, CA 91914 619-240-3235 _________________________

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Greenleaf Hydroponics 1839 W Lincoln Ave. Anaheim, CA 92801 714-254-0005

Brentwood Hydroponics & Organics 560 Valdry Ct Unit #B1 Brentwood, CA 94513 925-634-6704 _________________________

Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Dr., Suite F Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW

Hydro Galaxy 3314 W. Burbank Burbank CA 91505 800-818-6128

High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Rd., #7 Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Good To Grow & Global Garden Supply 1350 Rollins Rd. Burlingame, CA 94010 650-733-4420

San Diego Hydroponics North 645 Marsat Court #101 Chula Vista, CA 91911 619-737-9272 _________________________ Citrus Heights Hydrogarden 8043 Greenback Lane Citrus Heights, CA 95610 916-728-4769 Green Thumb Hydroponics 6412 Tupelo Dr. Citrus Heights, CA 95621 916-721-6969 Conrad Hydroponics Inc. 14915 Unit E, Olympic Dr. Clearlake, CA 95422 707-994 3264

Concord Indoor Garden 2771 Clayton Rd. Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Ave., Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 123 Grow 2175 Sampson Ave. #123, Corona, CA 92879 951-280-9232 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth St., #211 Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 _________________________

The Hydro Spot 21785 Temescal Cyn Rd. Corona, CA 92883 _________________________ A+ Hydroponics & Organics 1604 Babcock St. Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949-642-7776 The Hydro Source 671 E. Edna Pl. Covina, CA 91723 877 HYDRO 82; 626-915-3128 Let it Grow 1228 2nd St. Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-9086 Pacific Coast Hydroponics 4147 Sepulveda Boulevard Culver City, CA 90230 310-313-1354 Dr. Greenthumbs Hydroponic Garden Supplies 566 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Danville, CA 94526 925-314-9376 Constantly Growing - Davis 123 D St. Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774 Central Valley Gardening 9884 Stephens St. Delhi, CA 95315 209-668-2178 Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Dr., Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710 Appleseed Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way, Suite B Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 Victory Garden Supply 1900 N Lincoln St., #100 Dixon, CA 95620 707-678-5800 Watch it Grow Hydro 9453 Firestone Blvd. Downey, CA USA 562-861-1928 Grow A Lot Hydroponics, San Diego 1591 N. Cuyamaca St. El Cajon, CA 93612 619-749-6777 Indoor Garden Solution Inc. 12424 Exline St. El Monte, CA 91732 626-453-0443 Encinitas Hydroponics 463 Encinitas Blvd. Encinitas, CA 9202 Go Green Hydroponics 15721 Ventura Boulevard Encino, CA 91436 818-990-1198

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A Fertile World (Eureka) 6th St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-0200 _________________________ Bayside Garden Supply 4061 Highway 101 Ste 6 Eureka, CA 95503 707-826-7435 ________________________

Humboldt Hydroponics 1302 Union St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-4304 _________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 60 West 4th St. Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 _________________________ Happy Green Lawn Care 3890 Walnut Dr. Eureka, CA 95534 707-497-6186 Constantly Growing 4301 Hazel Ave. Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043 Fallbrook Hydro 208 E Mission Rd., Suite B Fallbrook, CA 92028 760-728-4769 Tulare County Growers Supply 435 W. Noble Ave., Unit A Farmersville, CA 93223 559-732-8247 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - North 6241 Graham Hill Rd. Felton, CA 95018 831-335-9000 _________________________

Eel River Hydroponics & Soil Supply 164 Dinsmore Dr. Fortuna, CA 95540 707-726-0395 _________________________ The Shop 8635 Mirabel Rd. Forestville, CA 95436 866-223-0198; 707-887-2280 Dirt Cheap Hydroponics 17975 H Hwy. 1 Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-964-4211 Headlands Garden Supply 630 North Franklin St. Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-964-4447 Hydrogarden Mendocino County 1240 North Main St. Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-962-9252 _________________________

A Fertile World (Fortuna) 610 7th St. Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-0700 _________________________

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors _________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 357 Main St. Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-5550 _________________________ Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41451 Albrae St. Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 _________________________

Gro More Garden Supply & Hydroponics Gro More Garden Supply & Hydroponics 2686 Clovis Ave., Suite 109 Fresno, CA 93727 559-348-1055 _________________________

Roots Grow Supply 1330 North Hulbert, #101 Fresno, CA 93728 559-840-0122 _________________________ North Side Garden Supply 4529 N. Marty, Suite 102 Fresno, CA 93722 559-495-1140 Hand’s On Hydroponics 3320 North Cedar Ave. Fresno, CA 93726 559-222-7770 Full Scale Soil & Hydro 2501 Business Park, Suite A Fresno, CA 93727 559-292-ROOT Valley Hydroponics 207 E. Sierra Ave. Fresno, CA 93710 559-449-0426 Grow Wurks Hydroponics 765 S. State College Blvd., Suite J Fullerton, CA 92831 714-253-Grow (4769) SB Hydro 1109 W. 190th St., Unit #F Gardena, CA 90248 310-538-5788 Golden Gecko Garden Center 4665 Marshall Rd. Garden Valley, CA 95633 530-333-2394 Probiotic Solutions 20889 Geyserville Ave. Geyserville, CA 95441 707-354-4342 South Valley Hydroponics 320 Kishimura Dr., #3 Gilroy, CA 95020 866-848-GROW _________________________

Zen Hydroponics 1801 Victory Blvd. Glendale, CA 91201 877 ZEN Grow; 818-806-4500 _________________________ Laid Back Gardens 340 Pine Avenue Goleta, CA 93117 805-845-2471 West Coast Growers Hydroponics 13481 Colifax Hwy. Grass Valley, CA 95945 888-924-4769 530 Hydo & Soil 10021 Wolf Rd. C-16 Grass Valley, CA 95949

186

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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Grass Valley Hydrogarden 12506 Loma Rica Dr. Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-477-2996 grassvalleyhydrogarden.com _________________________

Grass Roots Hydroponics 31875 Corydon, Suite 130 Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 951-245-2390 _________________________

AG Natural 403 Idaho Maryland Rd. Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-274 0990 _________________________ Joy’s Green Garden Supply 340-A Elm Ave. Greenfield, CA 93927 831-674-1416 All Seasons Hydroponics 17614 Chatsworth St. Granada Hills, CA 91344 818-368-4388 Dirt Cheap Hydroponic 151 N 7th St. #4 Grover Beach, CA 93433 805-473-3478 Growers Choice Hydroponics 42089 Watkins St. Hayward, CA 94544 510-278-6200 M.G.S. 22540 D FoothillBlvd. Hayward, CA 94541 510-582-0900

South County Hydroponics 22511 Aspan St., Suite A Lake Forest, CA 92630 949-837-8252 _________________________ Clover Hydroponics & Garden Supply 43 Soda Bay Rd. Lakeport, CA 95453 707-263-4000 _________________________

San Diego Hydroponics East County 11649 Riverside Dr., Suite 141 Lakeside, CA 92040 619-562-3276 _________________________

Total Hydroponics Center Inc 4820 Paramount Blvd. Lakewood, CA 90712 562-984-GROW (4769) _________________________

Thrive Hydroponics 30-A Mill St. Healdsburg, CA 95448 707-433-4068

Room to Grow 43511 13th St. W Lancaster, CA 43511 661-940-5599 _________________________

Hydro Zen 3518 Tanya Ave. Hemet, CA 92545 951-392-5016 Bear Valley Hydroponics & Homebrewing 17455 Bear Valley Rd. Hesperia, CA 92345 760-949-3400

Hydro Bros. 1471 B St., Suite F Livingston, CA 95334 209-394-7319 _________________________

Emerald Garden 13325 South Hwy. 101 Hopland, CA 95482 707-744-8300

Big Daddy Garden Supply 42400 Hwy. 101 Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-7181

Hydroluv Hydroponics 16582 Gothard St. Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-916-0428 Dutch Garden Supplies Park Circle, Suite 12 Irvine, CA 92614 949-748-8777 West Coast Hydroponics, Inc. 27665 Forbes Rd., Unit 10 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-348-2424 Hydro Life Hydroponics 18109 E Valley Blvd. La Puente, CA 91744 626-581-8800 La Habra Hydroponics 1301 S Beach Blvd., Suite O La Habra, CA 90631 562-947-8383

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

562 Hydro Shop 717 East Artesia Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90805 562-726-1101 _________________________

Green Coast Hydroponics 2405 Mira Mar Ave. Long Beach, CA 90815 562-627-5636 _________________________ Grow Light Express 5318 East Second St., Suite 164 Long Beach, CA 90803 888-318-GROW _________________________

Long Beach Hydroponics & Organics

1772 Clark Ave.

American Ave Hydroponics 1208 W. Winton Ave. Hayward, CA 94545 510-785-4376

Surf City Hydroponics 7391 Warner Ave., Suite B Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-847-7900

Valley Rock Landscape Supply 2222 N H St. Lompoc, CA 93436 805-736-0841; 805-735-5921

Weather Top Nursery 44901 Harmon Dr. Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-6385 Livermore Hydroponics 22 Rickenbacker Crl. S Livermore, CA 94551 925-454-9376 DL Wholesale 6764 Preston Ave., Suite D Livermore, CA 94551 510-550-0018 _________________________

Long Beach, CA 90815 562-498-9525 _________________________ Atwater Hydroponics 3350 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90039 323-663-8881 _________________________

Green Coast Hydroponics 16705 Roscoe Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 91406 818-672-8880 _________________________

Green Coast Hydroponics 3865 Grand View Blvd. Los Angeles, CA90066 310-398-0700 _________________________ Green Door Hydro and Solar 830 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013 212-625-1323 Hardman Hydroponics 3511 Youree Dr., Shreveport Los Angeles, CA 71105 318-865-0317 Hollywood Hydroponics & Organics 5109 1/2 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90027-6105 323-662-1908 Hydroasis 2643 S. Fairfax Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90232 888-355-4769 LAX Hydro 10912 S. La Cienaga Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90304 310-337-6995 Nirvana Hydroponics 340 South San Pedro Los Angeles, CA 90013 310-795-2914 _________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 6485 Brisa St. Livermore, CA 94550 888-570-4678 (Southern CA) _________________________ VIP Garden Supply 203 Commerce St., Suite 101 Lodi, CA 95240 209-339-9950

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Superior Hydroponic Supply 5651 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles,CA 90028 323-465-grow (4769) _________________________

Hydro Bros. 521 Winmoore Way, Suite A Modesto, CA 95358 209-537-8220 _________________________

Green Giant Hydroponics 7183 Hwy. 49 Unit B Lotus, CA 95651 530-622-4465 Big Momma’s 11455 Clayton Creek Rd. Lower Lake, CA 95457 707-994-1788 California Green Hydroponics 16491 Rd., 26, Suite 101 Madera, CA 93638 559-674-1400 Grow 22333 Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 101 Malibu, CA 90265 310-456-2910 Deep Roots Garden Center & Flower Shop 207 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310-376-0567 B & S Gardening Supplies 592 Commerce Court Manteca, CA 95336 209-239-8648 Monterey Bay Horticulture Supply 218 Reindollar Ave., Suite 7A Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba St. Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 _________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1580 Nursery Way McKinleyville, CA 95519 707-839-9998 _________________________ Mendocino Garden Shop 44720 Maint St. (at Hwy. 1) Mendocino, CA 95460 707-937-3459 Hooked Up Hydroponics 1004 W. 15th St. Suite B & C Merced, CA 95340 209-723-1300 Indoor/Outdoor Garden Supply 1501 W. Main St. Merced, CA 95340 209-580-4425 The Urban Farmer Store 653 E. Blithedale Ave. Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-380-3840 Hydroponics Inc. 3811 Wacker Dr. Mira Loma, CA 91752 951-685-4769 Mission Viejo Hydroponics 24002 Via Fabricante Suite 502 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-380-1894 Central Valley Gardening 509 Winmoore Way, Suite T Modesto, CA 95358 209-537-GROW

Sunland Hydroponics 4136 Eagle Rock Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90065 323-254-2800 _________________________

Coca’s Central Valley Hydroponics 116 West Orangeburg Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 209-567-0590

Growers Choice Hydroponics 1100 Carver Rd. #20 Modesto, CA 95350 209-522-2727 Year Round Garden Supply 11000 Carver Rd. #20 Modesto, CA 95350 209-522-2727 _________________________

Green Light Hydroponics 2615 Honolula Ave. Montrose, CA 91020 818-640-2623 _________________________ 247 Garden 1101 Monterey Pass Rd., Unit B Monterey Park, CA 91754 323-318-2600 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - Mtn. View 569 East Evelyn Ave. Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070 Murphys Hydroponics & Organics 785 Murphys Creek Rd., Suite C2 Murphys, CA 95247 209-728-8058 Redwood Garden Supply 55 Myers Ave. Myers Flat, CA 95554 707-943-1515 _________________________

Endless Green Hydroponics 25 Enterprise Court, Suite 3 Napa, CA 94558 707-254-0200 _________________________ Wyatt Supply 4407 Solano Ave. Napa, CA 94558 707-251-3747 _________________________ Conejo Hydroponics 3481 Old Conejo Rd., #106 Newbury Park, CA 91320 805-480-9596 _________________________

Vital Landscaping Inc. 204 Gold Flat Ct. #7 Nevada City, CA 95959 530-273-3187 _________________________ Big Momma’s 2581 Stokes Ave. Nice, CA 95464 707-274-8369 Foothill Hydroponics 10705 Burbank Blvd. N. Hollywood, CA 91601 818-760-0688

One Stop Hydroponics 12822 Victory Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91606 818-980-5855 Lumatek Digital Ballasts 33 Commercial Boulevard, Suite B Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4273 Marin Hydroponics 1219 Grant Ave. Novato, CA 94945 415-897-2197

Igro Hydro 2280 Veatch St. Oroville, CA 95965 530-534-4476 _________________________

Roots Grow Supply 40091 Enterprise Dr. Oakhurst, CA 93644 559-683-6622

Advanced Soil & Garden Supply 350 Oro Dam Blvd. Oroville, CA 95965 530-533-2747 _________________________

3rd Street Hydroponics 692 4th St. Oakland, CA 94607 510-452-5521

Orville Organic Gardens 5250 Olive Hwy., Suite 1 Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9950

Grass Valley 1920 E 12 St. Oakland, CA 94606 Medicine Man Farms 1602 53rd Ave. Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Plant-N-Grow 1602 53rd Ave. Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Hwy. Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Blvd. Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084

Amazon Garden Supply 29 Ridge View Lane Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-5054 Amazon Greenlight 521 Cal Oak Rd. Oroville, CA 95966 530-534-4769 Amazon Growing Needs 5369 Old Olive Hwy. Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9850 US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Ave. Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086 _________________________

Cultivate Ontario 2000 Grove Ave. #a110 Ontario, CA 91761 909-781-6142 Flairform 1751 S Pointe Ave. Ontario, CA 91761 213-596-8820 _________________________

Green Coast Ontario Unit 102-103 1920 S. Rochester Ave. Ontario, CA 909-605-5777 _________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 1950 C South Grove Ave. Ontario, CA 91761 888-888-3319 _________________________

America’s Best Hydroponics & Gardening Center 641 W. Palmdale Blvd., Unit D Palmdale, CA 93551 661-266-3906 _________________________

Hydroponics Unlimited 641 W. Palmdale Blvd., D Palmdale, CA 93550 661-266-3906 _________________________

Palm Tree Hydroponics 2235 E 4th St., Suite G Ontario, CA 91764 909-941-9017 _________________________

RH Distribution 1751 S. Pointe Ave. Ontario, CA 91761 888-545-8112 _________________________

New Leaf Hydro 34150 123rd St. Parablossom, CA 93553 661-944-2226

Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona, CA 91766 909-620-7099

Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO

Emerald Garden 8249 Archibald Ave. Ranch Cucamanga, CA 91730 909-466-3796

365 Hydroponics 2062 Lincoln Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103 626-345-9015

Radiant Roots Gardening & Hydroponics 1394 S Pacific Coast Hwy. Redondo Beach, CA 90277 310-540-2005 _________________________

Garden All Year Inc. 3850 Ramada Dr., Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333 Supersonic Hydroponic & Organic Garden Supply 3850 Ramada Dr., Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333 Foothills Hydrogarden 3133 Penryn Rd. Penryn, CA 95663 916-270-2413 _________________________

Four Seasons Landscape Materials 17115 Penn Valley Dr. Penn Valley, CA 95946 530-432-9906 _________________________

Funny Farms Hydroponics 963 Transport Way, #12 Petaluma, CA 94954 707-775-3111 _________________________ House of Hydro 224 Weller St., #B Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-4769 Wyatt Supply 1016 Lakeville St Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-3747 Deep Roots Hydroponics 830 Perry Lane Petaluma CA 94954-5320 707-776-2800 JNJ Hydroponics 4774 Phelan Rd., Suite 2 Phelan, CA 92371 760-868-0002

DNA Hydroponics Inc 19345 North Indian Canyon Dr., Suite 2-F North Palm Springs, CA 92258 760-671-5872 _________________________

The Hydro Shop of Redondo Beach 1304 S. Pacific Coast Hwy Redondo Beach, CA 90277 310-540-2005 _________________________

Dazey’s Supply 3082 Redwood Dr. Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002 _________________________ Shadow Valley Aquatics 75 Kimick Way Red Bluff, CA 96080 530-526-0479

All Elements Hydroponics & Gardening Supply 5623 Motherlode Dr. Placerville, CA 95667 530-642-4215

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Discount Hydroponics 4745 Hiers Ave. Riverside, CA 92505 877-476-9487 _________________________

Reforestation Technologies International 1341 Daton St., Unit G Salinas, CA 93901 800-784-4769 _________________________

All Ways Hydro 2220 Eastridge Ave., Suite C Riverside, CA 92507 888-HYDRO98 Green Forest Hydro 570 E La Cadena Dr., Suite #1D Riverside, CA 92507 951-784-5733, Fax 951-704-4633 Calwest Hydroponics 11620 Sterling Ave., Suite A Riverside, CA 92503 800-301-9009 Hydro Depot 5665 Redwood Dr., #B Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-584-2384

Constantly Growing 1918 16th St. Sacramento, CA 95811 916-448-1882

Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. St., Suite D San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919

Green Acres Hydroponics 1215 Striker Ave., Suite 180 Sacramento, CA 95834 916-419-4394

Humboldt Hydroponics 2010 Tunnel Rd. Redway, CA 95560 707-923-1402

Green Thumb Hydroponics 1537 Fulton Ave. Sacramento, CA 95825 916-934-2476

Sylvandale Gardens 1151 Evergreen Rd. Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3606 Hydro King 105 Hartnell Ave., Suite C and D Redding, CA 96002 888-822-8941 Orsa Organix 111 Willow St. Redwood City, CA 94063 650-369-1269 _________________________

Mendocino Greenhouse & Garden Supply 960 East School Way Redwood Valley, CA 95470 707-485-0668 _________________________ Hydro Hills Hydroponics 19320 Vanowen St. Reseda, CA 91335

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 1900 Bendixsen St., Bldg. 1 Samoa, CA 95564 800-683-1114 (Northern CA) _________________________ Sanger Garden Supply 725 Academy Ave. Sanger, CA 93657 559-259-7597

Greenfire Sacramento 3230 Auburn Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95821 916-485-8023

Redway Feed Garden & Pet Supply 290 Briceland Rd. Redway, CA 95560 707-923-2765

Xtreme Gardening 1341 Dayton St., Annex B Salinas, CA 93901 800-784-4769 _________________________

Murphy’s Hydropincs & Organics 799 W. Stocktan St. Sanora, CA 95370 209-532-2022

Bare Roots Hydroponics 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, CA 96002 530-244-2215

Turbo Grow 1889 San Pablo Ave. Pinole, CA 94564 510-724-1291 Hillside Hydro & Garden 4570 Pleasant Valley Rd. Placerville CA 95662 530-644-1401

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Green Thumb Hydroponics 35 Quinta Court, Suite B Sacramento, CA 95823 916-689-6464 _________________________

KY Wholesale 8671 Elder Creek Rd. #600 Sacramento, CA 95828 916-383-3366 _________________________ Hydro City 8510 Morrison Creek Dr. Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95828 916-388-8333 J Street HydroGarden 2321 J St. Sacramento, CA 95816 916-444-4473 Mystic Gardens 8484 Florin Rd., #110 Sacramento, CA 95828 916-381-2464 Sac Hydroponics 9529 Folson Blvd., Suite C Sacramento, CA 95827 916-369-7968 Skywide Import & Export Ltd. 5900 Lemon Hill Ave. Sacramento, CA 95824 916-383-2369

Green Coast Hydroponics 496 Meats Ave. Orange, CA 92865 714-974-4769 _________________________

Green Bros Hydroponics 14072 Osborne St. Panorama City, CA 91402 818-891-0200 _________________________

IGS Hydroponics & Organics 57 California Ave., Suite 1 Pleasonton CA 94566 925-426-GROW

Hi-Tech Gardening 5327 Jacuzzi St., #282 Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-4710

Tradewinds Wholesale Garden Supplies 1235 Striker Ave. #180 Sacramento, CA 95834 888-557-8896

Greenback Garden Supply 9341 Greenback Ln., Suite C Orangevale, CA 95662 530-391-4329

Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona, CA 91766 909-620-7099

Best Yield Garden Supply 3503 West Temple Ave., Unit A Pomona, CA 91768 909-839-0505

The Urban Farmer Store 2121 San Joaquin St. Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-1604

Green Joint Ventures 61 Tarp Circle Salinas, CA 93901 831-998-8628

Pure Food Gardening/ Microclone 830 H Bransten Rd. San Carlos, CA 94070-3338 Green Gopher Garden Supply 679 Redwood Ave., Suite A Sand City, CA 93955 831-899-0203 Modern Gardens 26620 Valley Center Dr., Unit #104 Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-513-4733 Best Coast Growers 4417 Glacier Ave., Suite C San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 Mighty Hydro 4780 Mission Gorge Rd. Suite #A1 San Diego, CA 92120 619-287-3238 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Ave San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358 Home Brews & Gardens 3176 Thorn St. San Diego, CA 92104 619-630-2739 Indoor Garden Depot 1848 Commercial St. San Diego, CA 92113 619-255-3552 Innovative Growing Solutions (IGS) 5060 Santa Fe St., Suite D San Diego, CA 92109 858-578-4477 _________________________

Mighty Garden Supply 4780 Mission Gorge Pl. #A-1 San Diego, CA 92120 619-287-3238 _________________________

Oracle Garden Supply 5755 Oberlin Dr., Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92121 858-558-6006 _________________________

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Miramar Hydroponics & Organics 8952 Empire St. San Diego, CA 92126 858-549-8649 _________________________

San Diego Hydroponics Beach Cities 4122 Napier St. San Diego, CA 92110 619-276-0657 _________________________ Direct Hydroponics Wholesale 1034 W. Arrow Hwy. #D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 _________________________

House of Hydroponics 732 W. Arrow Hwy. San Dimas, CA 91773 877-592-5111; 909-592-5111 _________________________ Liquid Gardens 1034 West Arrow Hwy. #D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 Hydro Depot 2090 Cesar Chavez St. San Francisco, CA 94124 415-282-5200 Plant It Earth Warehouse 1 Dorman Ave. San Francisco, CA 94124 415-970-2465 _________________________

Inland Empire Hydrogarden 1301-C South State St. San Jancinto, CA 92853 Hahn’s Lighting 260 E. VA Suite 1 San Jose, CA 95112 408-295-1755 _________________________

Rasa Hydroponics 5725 Winfield Blvd., Suite 8 San Jose, CA 95123 408-227-7272 _________________________ Sunny Tool 580 Parrott St. San Jose, CA 95112 408-278-1800 Urban Gardens 1999 Monterey Rd. San Jose, CA 95125 408-298-8081 Plant Life 32 Race St., San Jose, CA 95126 408-283-9191

san Francisco, CA 94116 415-731-2115 _________________________ The Hydroponic Connection Warehouse, 1995 Evans Ave. San Francisco, CA 94124 415-824-9376 The Hydroponic Connection San Francisco 1549 Custer Ave. San Francisco, CA 94124 415-864-9376 Nor Cal Hydroponics 4837 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94118 415-933-8262 _________________________

Urban Gardens. 704 Filbert St. San Francisco, CA 94133 415-421-4769 _________________________ San Francisco Hydro 123 Tenth St. San Francisco, CA 94103 Urban Gardens 1394 Lowrie St. San Francisco, CA 94080 650-588-5792 The Urban Farmer Store 2833 Vicente St. San Francisco, CA 94116 415-661-2204 US Garden 417 Agostinio Rd. San Gabriel, CA 91776 626-285-5009

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Nutes Int’l 204 N Quarantina St. Santa Barbara, CA 93103 805-687-6699 Planet Earth Hydroponics 102 East Haley St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805-899-0033 _________________________

Urban Grow Systems 204 N Quarantina St. Santa Barbara, CA 93103 805-637-6699 _________________________

Santa Clarita Valley Hydroponics 25835 Railroad Ave. #26 Santa Clarita, CA 91350 661-255-3700; 661-255-3701 _________________________

Hydrofarm, Inc. 2249 South McDowell Ext. Petaluma, CA 94954 800-634-9990

California Hydroponics 310 Coral St., Suite C Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-423-4769

Hydrofarm Southwest 12991 Leffingwell Rd. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 800-634-9990

Hydro-Logic Purification Systems 370 Encinal St., Suite 150 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 888-H2O-LOGIC

South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - San Jose 1185 South Bascom Ave. San Jose, CA 95128 408-292-4040

Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - West Side 815 Almar Ave., Unit K Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-9000 _________________________

Beach Cities Hydroponics 33155 Camino Capistrano Unit F. San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 949-493-4200 Grow Your Own Hydroponics & Organics - West 3401 Taraval St.

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

D&S Garden Supplies 17-130 Doolittle Dr. San Leandro, CA 94577 510-430-8589 Hydrogarden Delight 13762 Doolittle Dr. San Leandro, CA 94577 510-903-1808 Central Coast Hydrogarden 1951 Santa Barbara St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-544-GROW Healthy Harvest Hydroponics and Organics 2958 S. Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-596-0430 _________________________

San Diego Hydroponics North County Inland 802 N. Twin Oaks Valley Road #108 San Marcos, CA 92069 760-510-1444 _________________________ Marin Hydroponics 721 Francisco Blvd. East San Rafael, CA 94901 415-482-8802 San Rafael Hydroponics 1417 Fourth St, San Rafael, CA 94901 415-455-9655 55 Hydroponics 1727 Boyd St. Santa Ana, CA 92705 714-259-7755 _________________________

Green Coast Hydroponics 135 Nogal Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93110 805-898-9922 _________________________

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Glow Hydroponics 124-H Blossom Hill Rd. San Jose, CA 95123 408-455-7720 _________________________ Big Daddy Garden Supply 3236 Dutton Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-535-0996

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Santa Rosa Hydroponics 4880 Sonoma Hwy. Santa Rosa, CA 707-595-1340 Santa Rosa Hydroponics 4130 S Moorland Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 707-584-9370 _________________________ Santee Hydroponics 7949 Mission Gorge Rd. Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Gardening Unlimited 60 Old El Pueblo Rd. Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-457-1236 Deep Roots Hydroponics 2661 Gravenstein Hwy. S #E Sebastopol, CA 95472-8200 707-829-7668 Hydro Depot 6731 Sebastopol Ave. Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-1510 Beyond Hydro Inc. 12639 San Fernando Rd. Sylmar, CA 91342 818-362-5373 loom Brothers Garden Supply, Inc. 3293 Industry Dr. Signal Hill, CA 90755 562-494-0060 ________________________

We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 ________________________

Deep Roots Hydroponics 3715 Santa Rosa Ave. Suite A2 Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-540-0773 Gottagrow Garden Supply 769 Wilson St. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-544-7782 _________________________

Green Logic Garden Supply 860 Piner Rd, #38 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-843-3156 _________________________ Hydro Depot 13 West 3rd St. Santa Rosa, CA 95401 707-542-3866 Organic Bountea 1919 Dennis Lane Santa Rosa, CA 95403 800-798-0765 Sonoma Hydro LLC 3535 Industrial Dr., Suite B2-3 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-544-3383

Advanced Garden Supply 2660 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Building C, Unit 9 S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-4769 ________________________ Farm Hydroponics, The 1950 Lake Tahoe Boulevard #3 S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-3276

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Orange County Hydroponics 12797 Beach Blvd. Stanton, CA 90680 714-893-9493 ________________________

HomeGrown Indoor Garden Supply 681 A Grider Way Stockton, CA 95210 209-477-4447 ________________________ Golden Harvest Hydroponics & Garden Supply 8626 Lower Sacramento Road #48 Stockton, CA 95210 209-951-3550 M&M Garden Supply 2509 West Lane, Suite B Stockton, CA 95205 209-939-0664 Pacific Ave Indoor Garden Supply 4633 Pacific Ave Stockton, CA 95207 209-955-0945 Hydroponics Depot 8712 Sunland Blvd. Sun Valley, CA 91352 818-771-0600 ________________________

Sunland Hydroponics 8300 Foothill Blvd. Sunland, CA 91040 818-352-5300 ________________________ South Bay Hydroponics & Organics - Sunnyvale 1205 W. El Camino Real Sunnyvale, CA 94087 650-968-4070 Tahoe Garden Supply 645 Westlake Blvd., Suite 2 Tahoe City, CA 96145 530-581-3200 The Otherside Hydroponics 19425 Ventura Blvd. Tarzana, CA 91356 818-881-HYDRO (4937) ________________________

Valley Hydro and Organics 19230 Sonoma Hwy. Sonoma, CA 95476 707-396-8734 Green Universe Inc. 19618 8th St. E Sonoma, CA 95476 707-320-0554 Motherlode Hydroponics and Organics 799 W Stockton St. Sonora, CA 95370 209-532-2022

Wyatt Supply 747 Yolanda Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-578-3747

Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - East Side 4000 Cordelia Lane Soquel, CA 95073 831-475-9900

Next Generation Hydroponics 10658 Prospect Ave., Suite A Santee, CA 92071 619-438 2415

East County Hydroponics 9903 Campo Rd. Spring Valley, CA 91977 619-825-5097

Grass Roots Hydroponics 27250 Madison Ave. Suite C Temecula, CA 92590 951-296-1090 ________________________ Hydroponics 4 Less 41669 Winchester Ave. Temecula, CA 92590 800-A1-HYDRO Inland Empire Hydrogarden 28822 Old Town Front St. #206 Temecula, CA 92590 886-74-HYDRO 805 Hydroponics & Organics 1785 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-494-1785

Green Thumb Lighting & Garden 1647 W. Sepulveda Blvd., Unit 5 Torrance, CA 90501 888-326-GROW Los Angeles Hydroponics & Organics 3007-3009 W. Artesia Blvd. Torrance, CA 90504 310-323-4937 Tracy Hydroponics 543 W. Grant Line Tracy, CA 95376 209-207-9065 Growers Choice Hydroponics 470 W. Larch Rd. #1 Tracy, CA 95304 209-833-1212 Anything Grows 10607 W. River St., Bldg. 3 Suite C Truckee, CA 96161 530-582-0479 Garden Depot Hydroponics 1460 Freitas Park Turlock, CA 95380 209-250-0101 Aloha Hydroponics 225 Lander Ave. Turlock, CA 95380 209-667-6653 Hooked Up Hydroponics 339 S. Golden State Blvd. Turlock, CA 95380 209-668-1300 Big Daddy Garden Supply 310 Mason St. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-467-9234 Emerald Garden 307 East Perkins St. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-463-2510 HydroPacific - Hydroponics & Garden Supplies 351 C Hastings Ave. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-467-0400 Northcoast Hydrogardens 3450 North State St. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7214 Wyatt Supply 2200 N. State St. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7473 TNC Supply 9490 Main St., P.O. Box 763 Upper Lake, CA 95485 707-275-9565 ________________________

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BWGS-CA 7530 W. Sunnyview Ave. Visalia, CA 93291 888-316-1306 ________________________ Kaweah Grower Supply 1106 1/2 N. Ben Maddox Way Visalia, CA 93293 559-625-4937 Greentrees Hydroponics Inc. 2581 Pioneer Ave., Unit D Vista, CA 92081 760-598-7551 Home Life Hydroponics and Organics 1745 East Vista Way Vista, CA 92084 760-643-2150 Specialty Garden Supply 7 Hangar Way, Suite B Watsonville, CA 95075 831-768-0420

Green Coast 16705 Roscoe Blvd. Van Nuys, CA 91406 818-672-8880 ________________________ Hydroponics Market 15816 Arminta St. Van Nuys, CA 91406 818-305-6261; 886-72-HYDRO Kinney Nursery 4115 Rowles Rd. Vina, CA 96092 530-839-2196 Blazzin Hydroponics 6650 Cresent St. Ventura, CA 93003 805-644-9376 The Green Shop 66420 Mooney Blvd., Suite 1 Visalia, CA 93277 559-688-4200

Polar Ray 5171 Eldorado Springs Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 303-494-5773

Grow Your Own 27051 Barkley Rd. Conifer, CO 80433 303-816-GROW (4769)

Southern Humbolt Garden Supplies 31653 Outer Highway 10 Yacaipa, CA 92373 909-794-6888

Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 2125 32 St. Boulder, CO 80301 303-996-6100

Happy Grow Lucky 11873 Springs Rd. Conifer, CO 80433 1-303-838-8700

Yucca Valley Hydroponics 56825 Twentynine Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 760-369-0300

COLORADO South Park Hydroponics 42 E Buckskin Rd. Alma, CO 80420 719-836-1533 Green Spot Garden Center & Antiques 711 State Ave. Alamosa, CO 81101 719-589-6362 The Grofax 25797 Conifer Rd. #A-8 Aspen Park, CO 80433 303-838-5520 ________________________

Evergreen Farm Feed and Garden 1131 Main St. Weaverville, CA 96093 530-623-2884

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 3550 B Odessa Way Aurora, CO 80011 866-877-4188 (Northeast) _________________________

Art of Hydro 5740 Corsa Ave. #102 Westlake Village, CA 91362 818-865-2227 California Hydro Garden 1043 S. Glendora Ave., Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874 Hydronation 2491 Boatman Dr., Suite B West Sacramento, CA 95691 916-372-4444 Flower Hut Nursery 603 4th St. Wheatland, CA 95692 530-633-4526 GreenWay Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Blvd. Whittier, CA 90601 Lazy Gardeners Hydroponics ‘N’ More 14626 East Whittier Blvd. Whittier, CA 90605 562-945-0909 Garden Spout, The 260 Margie Dr. Willits, CA 95490 707-456-0196

North Bay Hydroponics 1650 Lewis Brown Dr. Vallejo, CA 94589 707-647-0774 ________________________

Golden Valley Hydroponics 870 W. Onsott Rd. Suite F Yuba City, CA 95993 530-763-2151

Jolly Rancher 399 Business Park Ctr., Suite 205 Windsor, CA 95492 707-838-0842 Green Acres 20946 Victory Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Urban Gardens 22516 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-876-0222 ________________________

Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 _________________________ Garden Highway Garden Supply 598 Garden Highway #22 Yuba City, CA 95991 530-755-2877

Deep Roots Garden Supply 1790 Airport Rd., Unit 1 Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-1440 Mile High Hydroponics 37 Strong St. Brighton, CO 80601 303-637-0069 ________________________

ACME Hydroponics 300 Nickel St., Suite 3 Broomfield, CO 80020 720-524-7306 ________________________ Hydrofarm Mountain 400 Burbank St. Broomfield, CO 80020 800-634-9990 Hydro Galaxy 3314 W Burbank Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505 800-818-6128 J&D Organic Growing Solutions 217 1/2 Clayton St. Brush, CO 80723 970-310-5408

Nick’s Garden Center 2001 S. Chambers Aurora, CO 80014 303-696-6657 ________________________

The Big Tomato Indoor Garden Supply 14440 E. 6th Ave. Aurora, CO 80011 303-364-4769 ________________________ Aurora Hydroponic LLC 4250 S Chambers Rd. Aurora, CO 80014 303-400-6941 The Hydro Store 6695 Wadsworth Blvd. #C Arvada, CO 80004 720-328-3746 Rooted Hydroponics & Organics – Vail 910 Nottingham Road Unit N-11 & N-12 Avon, CO 81620 970-748-1222 ________________________

Sparetime Supply 208 E. San Francisco Ave. Willits, CA 95490-4006 Farmer Browns Garden Supply 80 Country Club Rd. Willow Creek, CA 95573 530-629-3100

Way To Grow 6395 Gunpark Dr. Boulder, CO 80301 303-473-4769

Black Dog LED 2885 Aurora Ave. #38 Boulder, CO 80303 720-420-1209 sales@blackdogLED.com ________________________ Boulder Hydroponics 1630 N 63rd St. Unit #5 Boulder, CO 80301 313-415-0045 Candy Shop Hydroponics LLC 2740 Canyon Blvd. Boulder, CO 80302 303-444-3355 One Love Garden Supply 3620 Walnut St. Boulder, CO 80301 303-586-1715

CT. Home Grown 45 South Canterbury Rd. Canterbury, CT 06331 BIG BloomZ 1011 Caprice Dr. Castle Rock, CO 80109 303-688-0599 Indoor Gardener, The 3225 I-70 Business Loop, Unit A10 Clifton, Colorado 81520 970-434-9999 Indoor Garden Warehouse 8100 S Akron St., Suite 322 Centennial, CO 80112 720-496-2110 Garden Tech 737 Garden of the Gods Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-278-9777 Grotools 2408 East Platte Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-475-7699 Greenhouse Tech 917 East Fillmore Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-634-0637 Hydro Grow Supply 644 Peterson Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719-596-2600 Purple Mountain Hydroponics LLC 1530 S Nevada Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-635-5859 Room To Grow LLC 422 South 8th St. Colorado Springs, CO 80905 719-633-8682 Roots and Rocks Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 1014 S. 21st St. Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-634-1024 ________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 5275 Quebec St. Commerce City, CO 80022 720-222-0772 _________________________

Whetstone Garden Supply 300 Belleview Ave. Crested Butte, CO 81224 970-349-9666 Global Organics & Hydroponics 11 N Broadway Cortez, CO 81321 970-564-8100 Joy of Growing 1410 Valley View Dr. Delta, CO 81416 970-874-2550 _________________________

BWGS-CO 11685 E. 55th Ave. Denver, CO 80239 888-316-1306 _________________________

Chlorophyll 3801 Mariposa St. Denver, CO 80211 303-433-1155 _________________________ Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 666 S. Buchtel Blvd. Denver, CO 80210 303-954-9919 Greenlight Garden Supply 7741 E Colfax Ave. Denver, CO 80220 720-389-8320 _________________________

Grow Your Own 2118 S Bellaire St. Denver, CO 80222 303-990-1929 _________________________ HyGrow Indoor Gardening Supplies 6271 Beach St., Unit F Denver, CO 80221 303-396-1420 Indoor Paradise Denver 7100 N Broadway, Suite 3D & E Denver, CO 80221 303-428-5020 NoDo Urban Garden Supply 1330 27th St. Denver, CO 80205 303-296-3424 Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 1717 39th Ave. Denver, CO 80205 800-58-HYDRO The Grofax 7540 East Colfax Ave. Denver, CO 80220 720-328-2127 The Grofax 755 South Federal Blvd. Denver, CO 80219 720-328-5164 The Grow Outlet 4272 Lowell Blvd. Denver, CO 80211 303-586-5543 Hydro Terra Corp 3893 Steele St. Denver, CO 80205 954-260-3377 Ultimate Hydroponics & Organics 2380 S. Broadway Denver, CO 80210 303-282-0034

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Way To Grow 301 East 57th Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-296-7900 _________________________

Green Head Hydroponics 809 E. Jasper Court Granby, CO 80446 970-557-3031 Greeley Nutrients 700 11th Street Unit 101 Greeley CO 80631 970-673-8302 The Grow Shop LLC 1701 Greeley Mall Rd. Greeley CO 80631 970-352-5447

All Seasons Gardening 434 Turner Dr., Suite 2B Durango, CO 81303 970-385-4769 _________________________ Blue Sky Hydroponics 1301 Florida Road Unit C Durango, CO 81301 970-375-1238 DHL Garden Supply 178 Bodo Dr.Unit B Durango, Co 81303 970-247-1090 _________________________

The Grow Store South 5050 S. Federal Boulevard, #37, Englewood, CO 80110 303-738-0202 _________________________ Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 439 Edwards Access Rd Unit B101 Edwards, CO 81632 970-926-2100 Bath Nursery & Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-484-5022 Gold Coast Hydroponics West 8101 S.W. Frontage Road Suite 300 Fort Collins, Colorado 80528 970-232-3220 The Grow Shop LLC 1711 S. College Avenue Fort Collins CO 80525 970-484-1042 Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769 _________________________

Hydro Shack, The 753 10 Mile Drive Frisco, CO 80443 970-668-0359 _________________________

Green Thumb Garden Supply Co. 2830 W 27th St Greeley CO 80634 970-506-1711 _________________________

Your Grow Bud 6801 South Emporia St., Suite 106 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 303-790-2211 _________________________ Green Gardens 133 E. Tomichi Ave. Gunnison, CO 81230 970-641-1161 Grow in Peace 1241 Mine Rd. Idaho Springs, CO 80452 303-567-GROW GroWize 3225 S. Wadsworth Blvd. Lakewood, CO 80227 303-986-2706 Way to Grow 11989 West Colfax Ave. Lakewood, CO 80215 303-546-3600 _________________________

MileHydro 355 S. Harlan St. Lakewood, CO 80226 303-935-4769 _________________________

The Grow Store 8644 W. Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80215 888-510-0350 _________________________ The Flower Bin 1805 Nelson Rd. Longmont, CO 80501 303-772-3454 _________________________

Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 _________________________

Victory Hydro Gardening 1387 E. South Boulder Rd. Louisville, CO, 80027 303-664-9376 _________________________ WarHammer Supply 1112 Munroe Ave. Loveland, CO 80537 970-635-2602

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Greener Mountain Indoor Gardening 20 Lakeview Dr., Unit 210 Nederland, CO 80466 303-258-7573 Grow in Peace 176 Hwy. 119 South Nederland, CO 80466 303-258-3520 Grow Depot 1434 W. 104th Ave. Northglenn, CO 80234 303-459-7878 Four Corners Organics & Hydroponics LLC 68 Bastille Unit #3, PO Box 627 Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 970-731-1685 _________________________

Colorado Hydroponics & Organics 2740 Commercial Way, Unit 1 Montrose CO, 81401 970-252-7450

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

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Good To Grow 335 Westport Ave. Norwalk, CT 06851 203-956-5600 www.goodtogrowct.com _________________________ Grow with Us 10 Middle River Dr. Stafford Springs, CT 06076 860-684-1595

Delaware 1st State Seed And Garden Supply People’s Plaza Suite 950 Newark, DE 19702 302-834-0440

Majestic Hydro-Gardening 860 Hwy. 105 Palmer Lake CO 80133 719-481-0777 _________________________ Pueblo Hydroponicss and Organics - Downtown 113 W 4th St. Pueblo, CO 81003 719-542-6798 Pueblo Hydroponics and Organics- South 2704 S Prarie Ave., Suite C Pueblo, CO 81005 719-564-2660 Pueblo Hydroponics and Organics 609 E Enterprise Dr. Pueblo West, CO 81007 709-647-0907 Salida Hydroponic Supply 1242 C St., Salida, CO 81201 719-539-4000

Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 7800 Colorado 82 #203 Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 970-947-9551 _________________________

Desert Bloom Hydroponics 445 Pitkin Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-245-6427 _________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Little Shop of Growers 2560 Copper Ridge Dr. Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 970-879-8577 Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 7615 W.38th Ave., Suite B111 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-954-9897 Hydro Planet 5022 Kippling St. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-279-6090

CONNECTICUT

_________________________

CT Home Grown 45 South Canterbury Rd. Canterbury, CT 06331 860-546-6161 _________________________ Grow Crazy 11 Berlin Rd., Unit 2, Cromwell, CT 06416 203-660-8486 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 775 Silver Lane East Hartford, CT 06118 860-568-4067 LiquidSun® CT 10C South Main St. East Windsor, CT 06088 860-254-5757 _________________________

Rogue Hydroponics 160 Broadway Hamden, CT 06518 866-277-4432 _________________________ Organix Hydroponics 749 Saybrook Rd., (Tradewinds Plaza) Middletown, CT 06457 860-343-1923

Sunny Day Organics 1867 Coastal Hwy. Rehoboth Beach, DE MD 19917 302-703-2538

FLORIDA Urban Sunshine 1420 E. Altamonte Dr. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 407-830-4769 Full Bloom Hydroponics 1489 W. Palmetto Boca Raton, FL 33486 888-725-4769 Best Hydro 4920 Lena Rd. Bradenton, FL 34211 941-756-1928 Palm Coast Hydroponics 4490 N Hwy US1, Suite 108 Bunnell, FL 32110 386-246-4119 East Coast Hydroponics & Organics 461 Forrest Ave., Suite 105 Coca, FL 32922 321-243-6800

Simply Hydroponics & Organics (North) 3642 South Suncoast Blvd. Homosassa, FL 34448 352-628-2655 Hydroponics International Inc. 7029-10 Commonwealth Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32220 904-693-6554 _________________________

Grower’s Choice & Hydroponics 11855 North Main St. Jacksonville, FL 32218 904-683-4517 _________________________

Growers Choice South 8535 Baymeadows Rd., Suite 13 Jacksonville, FL 32256 904-647-7156 _________________________ Urban Organics & Hydroponics 5325 Fairmont St. Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-398-8012 Simply Hydroponics & Organics 7949 Ulmerton Rd. Largo, FL 33773 727-531-5355 GrowSmart Indoor Garden Centers 14587 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-429-3527 Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – West 14703 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-296-8555 _________________________

GreenTouch Hydroponics Inc. 5011 S State Rd. 7, Suite 104 Davie, FL 33314 954-316-8815 Absolute Hydroponic Garden Center Inc 336 North Boundary Ave. Deland, FL 32720 386-734-0696 Organic Grow Hut 2 780 Deltona Blvd. #107 Deltona, Florida 32725 1-888-574-GROW; 386-259-5777 Gold Coast Hydroponics 1539 SW 21st Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 1-800-780-7371 _________________________

Biofloral 6250 NW 27th Way Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 877-735-6725 _________________________ Green Thumb Hydroponics Supplies 13482 North Cleveland Ave. Fort Meyers, FL 33903 239-997-4769 Gator Hydroponics 4460 SW 35th Terrace, Suite 310 Gainesville, FL 32608 352-301-5383 _________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 2692 W 79 St. Hialeah, FL 33016 1-800-931-5215 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 2975 West New Haven Ave. Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-0853 ________________________ Advanced Hydro Gardens 4960 NW 165 St., Suite B-4 Miami, FL 33014 305-474-4376 All Star Hydroponics Inc 8901 SW 129th St. Miami FL, 33176 800-842-8582 Blossoms Experience, The 7207 NW 54th St. Miami, FL 33166 866-452-4769 _________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 9545 Sunset Dr. Miami, FL 33173 800-931-5215 _________________________ Future Farms Inc., The 14291 SW 120th St., Suite 105 Miami, FL 33186 305-382-2757 Gold Coast Hydroponics 4241 SW 71st Ave. Miami, FL 33155 1-800-780-6805 Growing Garden Inc., The 12811 SW 42nd St. Miami, FL 33175 305-559-0309

VitaOrganix 7921 NW 67th St. Miami, FL 33166 786-845-8633

Mr. Nice Guy Hydroponics 1800 NW. Federal Hwy. Stuart, FL 34994 772-934-6785

Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 195 Paradise Blvd. Athens, GA 30607 800-470-6881

Brew and Grow 3625 N. Kedzi Ave. Chicago, IL 60618 773-463-7430

3D Hydroponics and Organics 7139 US Highway #19 New Port Richey, FL 34652 727-847-3491 _________________________

Esposito Garden Center 2743 Capital Circle NE Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-386-2114

Brew and Grow 3224 South Alpine Rd. Rockford, IL 61109 815-874-5700

Atlantis Hydroponics 2561 West Point Ave. College Park, GA 30337 678-510-0032

Evershine Hydroponics 1519 Capital Circle NE Unit #35 Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-765-0040

Alpha Hydroponics and Garden Supply Inc. 3904 N Druid Hills Rd., Suite 247 Decatur, GA 30033 404-590-4769 _________________________

Chicago Roots Hydroponics & Organics 4020 W. Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL 60641 773-545-4020

Rock Valley Garden Center 785 N.Bell School Rd. Rockford, IL 61107 815-398-9419

Florida Garden Supplies 8442 Tradeport Dr., Unit 200 Orlando, FL 32827 _________________________ Urban Sunshine 6100 Hanging Moss Rd., Suite 50 Orlando, FL 32807 407-647-4769 Urban Sunshine 6142 S. Orange Ave. Orlando, FL 32809 407-859-7728 Vertical Food Growers 10964 Dearden Circle Orlando, FL 32817 407-671-4241 Green Winters Inc. 147 Tomoka Ave. Ormond Beach, FL 32174 386-235-8730; 800-931-5215 The Healthy Harvest Suite 126, 21113 Johnson St. Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 954-538-1511 _________________________

Eden Garden Supply 3111 N. Davis Hwy. Pensacola, FL 32503 850-439-1299 _________________________ Healthy Gardens and Supply of Florida, Inc. 196 East Nine Mile Rd., Suite F Pensacola, FL 32534 850-912-4545 Avid Brew Company 1745 1st Ave. S. St. Petersberg, Florida 33712 727-388-6756 _________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 455 S. Andrews Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 877-649-3567 (Southeast) _________________________ Hydroponic Depot II 2395 S Tamiami Trail #19 Port Charlotte FL 33952 941-255-3999 EZ Grow Green 604 S.W. Bayshore Blvd. Port St. Lucie, Fl 34983 772-807-7755 _________________________

Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8877 North 56th St. Tampa, FL 33617 813-514-9376 Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8707 Temple Terrace Hwy. Tampa, FL 33637 813-514-9376 Hydroponics of Tampa 120 W. Bougain Villea Tampa, FL 33612 813-333-6828 Schiro’s Barn-N-Garden Supplies Inc. 7812 Causeway Blvd. Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902 Stoney Hydro @ Schiro’s Barn n Garden Supplies 7812 Causeway Blvd. Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902 _________________________

Worm’s Way Florida 4412 North 56th St. Tampa, FL 33610 800-283-9676; 813-621-1792 _________________________ Monkey Hydroponics 940 West Oakland Ave., Unit A1 407-574-8495 Happy Planet Hydroponics 1179 E. Alfred St. Tavares, FL 32778 352-253-1001 365 Hydroponics 13054 W Colonial Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-GROW(4769) Cultivating Eden Hydroponic Supplies 946 18th Ave. SW Vero Beach, FL 32962 772-564-8880 _________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 8020 Belvedere Rd.,Unit 4 West Palm Beach, FL 33411 800-931-5215 _________________________

Atlantis Hydroponics 5182-B Brook Hollow Parkway Norcross, GA 30071 770-558-1346

Eco-Island Supply 810 Haiku Rd., #394 Haiku, HI 96708 808-575-9171

Midwest Hydroganics 20647 Renwick Rd. Crest Hill, IL 60403 815-838-0100 _________________________

Goldman’s Grow Shop 910 Greenwood Rd. Glenview, IL 60025 847-657-7250 _________________________

Brew and Grow 359 W. Irving Park Rd. Unit E Roselle, IL 60172 630-894-4885 Organic Garden Center 9223 Skokie Blvd. Skokie, IL 60077 847-675-2722 _________________________

Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 3427 Old Chatman Rd. Springfield, IL 62704 217-341-0821 Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 2110 North Grand Ave. Springfield , IL, 62702 217-341-0821 _________________________

Aqua Plant Hawaii / Kahala Hydroponics 4224 Wailae, Suite 1A Honolulu, HI 96816 808-735-8665

Grow Masters 4641 Old Grand Ave. Gurnee, IL 60031 224-399-9877

Green Hands of Aloha 1713 Mary St. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-847-4263

Joe Dirt’s Organics & Hydroponics 760 Heartland Dr. Sugar Grove, IL 60554 630-466-8346

Big Grow Hydroponics 9225 Trinity Dr. Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 847-854-4450

Ohana Greenhouse & Garden Supply 300 Hukilike St. #2M, Kahalui, HI 96732 808-871-6393

Grow Big Hydroponics 7817 B North 2nd St. Manchesney Park, IL 61115 815-637-4769

Water Works Indoor Gardening 1900 South Dirksen Parkway Springfield, IL 62703 217-553-6929

Aiyah’s Garden 4558 Kukui St. Kapa’a, HI 96746 Aiyah’s Garden 3-3122 Kuhio Hwy. Unit B-2 Lihue, HI 96766 808-245-2627

Green Fields 8137 N. Milwaukee Niles, IL 60714 847-965-5056 _________________________

Pahoa Feed & Fertilizer 15-2754 Old Government Rd. Pahoa, HI 96778 808-965-9955

IDAHO Boise Hydroponics 614 North Orchard St. Boise, ID 83706 208-344-3053 Greenthumb Greenhouses 5895 Ensign Ave. Boise, ID 83714

ILLINOIS

GEORGIA

Aerogro 502 N Prospect, Suite 18 Bloomington, IL, 61704

Atlantis Hydroponics 1422 Woodmont Lane, #4 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-367-0052 _________________________

Brew and Grow- Crystal Lake 176 W. Terra Cotta Ave. Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-301-4950 _________________________

HAWAII

Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – East 968 North Congress Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 33409 561-296-6161 _________________________

Atlantis Hydroponics 8042 N. Palafox St., Suite C Pensacola, FL 32534 850-912-8796 _________________________

Savannah Hydroponics & Organics 4107 Eighth St., Suite C Garden City, GA 31408 912-349-4030 _________________________

Fertile Ground 463 West MacArthur Dr. Cottage Hills, IL 62018 618-259-5500

Aerostar Global 824 South Kay Ave. Addison, IL 60101

Brew and Grow 181 Crossroads Parkway Bolingbrook, IL 60194 847-885-8282 Let it Grow - Carbondale West Main St. Carbondale, IL 62908 573-450-5401

Urban Sunshine Organic & Hydroponic Gardening 2841 South Nove Rd., Suite 5 South Daytona, FL 32119 386-236-9989; 386-492-6978

Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 1239 Fowler St. NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-532-0001

Versaponics.COM Box 166 West Main St. Carbondale, IL62901 573-450-5401

Avid Brew Company 1745 1st Ave South St. Petersburg, FL 33712 727-388-6756

Flora Hydroponics Inc. 2475 Jefferson Rd., Suite 600 Athens, GA 30607 866-404-0551

Alternative Garden Supply 615 Industrial Dr., Unit A Cary, IL 60013 800-444-2837

Autumn Bloom Alternative Indoor Gardening 1020 Derby St. Pekin, IL 61554 309-642-6943 _________________________

GroUp Gardening 221 N. 5th St. Pekin, IL 61554 309-349-4407 _________________________ Grow Shop of Peoria 2621 N University Peoria, IL 61604 309-299-0953 Prairie House Garden Center 15151 South Harlem Ave. Orland, IL 60462 708-687-3131 _________________________

Heartland Hydrogardens 7403 Broadway St. Quincy, IL 62305 217-214-GROW(4769) _________________________

INDIANA Sunleaves Garden Products 7854 North State Rd. 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 888-464-9676 _________________________

Worm’s Way Indiana 7850 North State Rd. 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 800-598-8158 _________________________

Worm’s Way Mail Order 7850 North State Rd. 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 800-274-9676 _________________________ Frogs Lilly Pad, The 706 Citation Rd. Carmel, IN 46032 317-846-4610 Hops & Harvest 4616 E. DuPont Rd., Suite Q Fort Wayne, IN 46825 260-918-3035 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 1336 East Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-780-8020 Magic Bulb Garden Center 6221 Allisonville Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-202-2852

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors _________________________

Maximum Grow Gardening 6117 E Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-359-GROW (4769) _________________________ Next Generation Gardening & Hydroponics 6805 Madison Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-786-0066 One Stop Grow Shop 2326 E.44th St. Indianapolis, IN 46205 317-546-GROW The Wine-N-Vine Inc. 1524 East McGalliard Rd. Muncie IN 47303 765-282-3300 _________________________

BWGS-IN 1400 Hancel Pkwy., Mooresville, IN 46158 800-316-1306 _________________________ Five Point Gardens 56555 Oak Rd. South Bend, IN 46619 574-287-9232

Bluegrass Hydro Garden 13529 S. Dixie Hwy. Upton, KY 42784 270-369-9000

Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd St. Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-9236

LOUISIANA

Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Rd. Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018 _________________________

Laughing Buddha Nursery 4516 Clearview Parkway Metairie, LA 70006 504-887-4336 Urban Organics 285 St. Claude Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 504-352-4709 Ourcrazydeals Hydroponics 201 Angus Dr. Yungsville, LA 70592 337-303-6146

MAINE The Urban Garden Center 600 Wilson St. Brewer, ME 04412 207-989-2020 LiquidSun of Maine 51West Gray Rd. Gray, ME 04039 207-657-8033 Natures Palate Indoor Garden Store 1321 Mercer Rd. (route 2) Mercer, ME 04957 877-587-4150; 207-587-4150 Newfield Farms 122 Water St. Newfield, ME 04095 207-956-3334 _________________________

KENTUCKY Garden Grove Organics 29 East 7th St. Covington (Cincinnati Metro), KY 41011 859-360-1843 _________________________

Worm’s Way Kentucky 1360 Donaldson Hwy. Suite A Erlanger, KY 41018 800-669-2088 _________________________

Evergreen Garden Center 301 Forest Ave. Portland, ME 04101 207-761-2800 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply Maine178 Rand Rd. Portland, ME 04102 207-899-4387 _________________________ The Urban Garden Center 659 Warren Ave. Portland, ME 04103 207-347-2350

_________________________ Grow Shop, The of Lexington 2320 Palumbo Dr., Suite 130 Lexington, KY 40509 859-268-0779 Success Hydroponics Lexington, KY 4505 859-294-4769 Louisville Hydroponics 3471 Taylor Blvd. Louisville, KY 40215 502-366-4000

New England Horticulture Supply 125 John Roberts Rd., Suite 1 South Portland, ME 04106 207-899-0510 Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Rd. Topsham, ME 04086 207-373-0990 Greenlife Garden Supply 611 US Route 1 York, ME 03909 207-363-0844

MASSACHUSETTS Grow it Green 122 Pulaski Blvd. Bellingham, MA 02019 508-883-GROW Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Rd., Unit 4 Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966

Mass Hydro 679 Washington St. S. Attlevoro, MA 02703 508-761-4937 _________________________

Tru Bloomz Hydroponics 1201 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 508-336-4443 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 560 Boston Turnpike (Route 9) Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-845-4477 _________________________ Nor’easter Organic Life 515 College Highway Unit J Southwick, MA 01077 413-998-3951 _________________________

Mass Hydro 1753 Main St. Brockton, MA 02301 GYOstuff – Grow Your Own 2400 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 02140 617-945-1654

Harvest Moon Hydroponics 29 Washington St., Route 1 Foxboro, MA 02035 800-660-6977

New England Hydroponics 15 D College Hwy. (Route 10) Southampton, MA 01073 888-529-9025 _________________________ Nor'easter Organic Life 515 College Highway Unit J Southwick, MA 01077 413-998-3951 _________________________

Here We Grow 123 Russell St. (Route 9) Hadley, MA 01035 413-584-FARM (3276) LiquidSun® MA 8 Lynwood Ave. Holyoke, MA 01040 413-539-6875 Cape Cod Hydroponics 195 Ridgewood Ave. Hyannis, MA 02601 508-737-2555 _________________________

Rootdown Hydroponics Indoor Garden Center 236 Mystic Ave. Medford, MA 01255 781-874-1693 _________________________ Green Path Garden Supply 276 West Main St. Northborough, MA 01532 508-393-4181 LiquidSun® RI 1179 Central Ave. Pawtucket, MA 02861 401-722-2724 _________________________

East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson St. Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Rd. Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144

Bluegrass Organic Grow Shop 125 Quinn Dr. Nicholasville, KY 40356 859-887-0677

Eco Greenworks 7814 Parston Dr. Forestville, MD 20747 301-278-7541

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Evergreen Garden Center 216 Newbury St. Peabody, MA 01960 978-854-5541 _________________________ Hydroponics N More Garden Center 331 Centre Ave. Rockland, MA 02370 781-421-3356

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Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 6540 Allen Rd. Allen Park, MI 48101 313-383-1766 _________________________

Discount Hydro & Indoor

Garden Supplies

Gro Blue Discount Hydro and Indoor Garden Supplies 4072 Packard Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734-913-2750 _________________________ Grow Show, The 4095 Stone School Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734-677-0009; 734-677-0509 HotHydro® 5245 Jackson Rd., Suite F Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-761-5040; 877-893-0716 All things Good and Green 501 E. Michigan Ave. Augusta, MI 49012 269-978-8550 Battle Creek Indoor Gardening 1125 E.Michigan Ave. Battle Creek MI 49014 269-282-0554 BIG Green Tomato 1775 E. Columbia Ave. Battle Creek, MI 49014 269-282-1593 Homelight Gardens 3471 S. Huron Rd. Bay City, MI 48706 989-922-0088 Grow Supply Center 3131 Benzie Hwy. Benzonia, MI 49616 231-882-9270

Worm’s Way Massachusetts 121 Worc-Providence Turnpike Sutton, MA 01590 800-284-9676 _________________________ LiquidSun East 12 Bay St. Unit 105 Wilmington, MA 01887 978-447-5442

MICHIGAN Get Growing Urban Garden Centre 142 S. Main St. Adrian, MI 49221 All Things Good and Green 501 E. Michigan Ave. Augusta, MI 49012 269-978-8550 Allegan Hydroponic Supply 1177 Lincoln Rd. Allegan, MI 49010 269-355-1595 _________________________

J&L Growco 206 S. Michigan Ave. Big Rapids, MI 49307 231-796-1528 Hydro Vision 11820 Belleville Belleville, MI 48111 734-325-6210 One Stop Grow Shop Inc., The 397 Main St., Suite A. Belleville, MI 48111 734-325-7242 Growers Outlet 7720 Clyde Park SW Byron Center, MI 49513 616-878-4444 Happy Harvesters Hydroponics 4410 South Saginaw St. Burton, MI 48529 810-496-3005 Hydroponic Gardening 4204 Davison Rd. Burton, MI 48505 810-406-3355 Two Guys and a Grow Shop 3374 Atherton Rd. Burton, MI 48509 810-820-4275 _________________________

MARYLAND

New Earth Garden Center 9810 Taylorsville Rd. Louisville, KY 40299 800-462-5953

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Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901

Here We Grow 30 Parsons St. Presque Isle, ME 04769 207-SOY-BEAN (769-2326) Green Thumb Indoor Gardening 19 Stage Rd. St. Albans, ME 04971 207-938-5909

Maxmimum Grow Gardening 140 Frontage Rd Ste D Lafayette, IN 47905 765-464-6689

Montgomery Hydroponics 8950 Brookville Rd. Silver Springs, MD 20910 301-588-1935 _________________________

Mass Hydro 390 Rhode Island Ave. Fall River MA 02721 704-GO-HYDRO

KANSAS Kan-Grow Hydro Farm LLC 5555 S. Meridian Ave. Wichita, KS 67217 316-214-3022

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Cultivation Station 2734 Jackson Ave. Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-213-7740 _________________________ U Can Grow Hydro 2247 W. Liberty Ann Arbor, MI 4810 734-369-3387

Hydro Giant #4 6199 Haggerty Rd. West Bloomfield, MI 48322 248-668-6100 _________________________

Caledonia Gardens 9750 Cherry Valley Ave. SE Caledonia Gardens, MI 49316 616-891-0706 Greenway Gardens 916 W 13th St. Cadillac, MI 49601 231-775-7075 Indoor Grower’s Edge 8998 E. 34 Rd., Suite B Cadillac, MI 49601 231-468-3343

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Hydro Giant #1 14455 Ford Rd. Dearborn, MI 48126 313-216-8888 ________________________

Easy Growing 5748 N. Canton Centre Rd. Canton, MI 48187 734-451-4500 Hydro Helper 6445 Canton Center Rd. Canton, MI 48187 734-354-3900 Hydro Pro’s Indoor Garden 30504 23 Mile Rd. Chesterfield, MI 48047 586-741-8805 ________________________

Cultivation Station 3 Inc. 46912 Gratiot Chesterfield, MI 48051 586-949-7453 ________________________

The Great Lakes Hydroponics Co. 5998 US.31 South Charlevoix MI 49720 231-237-9153 _________________________ Horti-Toad Hydroponic Supply 21323 Harper St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-944-0650 Hydro 411 411 West 5th St. Clare, MI 48617 989-941-4157 Michigan Hydro Depot 571 E. Chicago St., Suite B Coldwater, MI 49036 517-278-9600 All American Indoor Gardening Warehouse 11504 N. Saginaw Rd. Clio, MI 48420 810-640-1156 Clio Cultivation 11394 N.Saginaw Rd. Clio, MI 48420 810-686-4769 HydroMaster 36345 Grosebeck Hwy. Clinton Twp, MI 48035 586-792-0277 Hydro Pro’s Indoor Garden 20560 Hall Rd. Clinton Township, MI 48038 586-263-5793 H2O Grow Supply 3364 Arent Ct. Coloma, MI 49038 269-468-3890 Lets Grow Hydroponics 1141 W Randall Coopersville, MI 49404 616-997-0420 Van Hydro 7480 N State Davison, MI 48423 810-653-8267 _________________________

The Grow Station 5670 Telegraph Rd. Dearborn, MI 48127 313-406-5147; 800-797-4769 (GROW) _________________________

Urban Garden Supply 3410 S. Dort Hwy. Flint, MI 48507 810-875-9580 Granny Green Thumbs 103 W. Grand River Flowerville, MI 48836 517-223-1302 Indoor/Outdoor Garden Shop 105 N. Seymour Rd. Flushing, MI 48433 810-867-4351 _________________________

Cultivation Station – Eastern Market, The 2518 Market St. Detroit, MI 48207 313-394-0441 ________________________ Growers R Us 19317 West Warren Detroit, MI 48228 313-633-1617 _________________________

Hydro Giant #3 21651 W. 8 Mile Rd.(8 Mile & Lahser) Detroit, MI 48219 313-387-7700 _________________________ Hydro Heaven 73647 W 8th Mile Rd. Detroit, MI 48235 313-861-0333; 877-823-2076 _________________________

Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 _________________________

Urban Gardening Center, The 2520 22nd St. Detroit, MI 48216 313-898-0200 _________________________

Superior Growers Supply 4870 Dawn Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823 517-332-2663 _________________________ Sunnyside Hydroponics 24930 Gratiot Ave. Eastpoint, MI 48021 586-777-2528 GroMart Indoor Gardening Solutions 68991 M-62 Suite Q Edwardsburg, MI 49112 269-414-4385 Bay de Noc Hydroponic & Garden Supply 1501 Sheridan Rd. Escanaba, MI 49829 906-553-7006

The Grow Shop of Garden City 28505 Ford Rd. Garden City, MI 48135 734-956-5400 _________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 799 S. Wisconsin Ave. Gaylord, MI 49735 989-731-8800 _________________________

Growco Garden Supply 1042 Michigan St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 877-939-6900 NEW 2nd LOCATION! 4640 West River Dr. Comstock Park, MI 49321 _________________________

Home Grown Hydroponix 5333 Plainfield, Suite C Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-2924 _________________________

Horizen Hydroponics 1614 Leonard St., NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 866-791-1664 _________________________ Grand Rapids Hydroponics Inc. 524 Leonard St. Grand Rapids, MI 49504 616-454-2500 _________________________

Garden Doctor 2974 28th St. SW Grandville, MI 49418 616-530-2500 _________________________

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Hydroharrys- HP 24047 Dequindre Rd. Hazel Park, MI 48030 248-541-0099 _________________________ Garden Doctor 2974 28th St. SW Grandville, MI 49418 616-530-2500 Absolute Wholesale Garden Supply 3255 Highland Rd. Highland, MI 48357 248-714-6558 Holland Hydroponic Outlet 587-40 East 8th St. Holland, MI 49423 616-298-7395 _________________________

Flower Factory, The 2223 East Highland Rd. Highland, MI 48356 248-714-9292 _________________________ Mr. Grow it All 6660 Blair Lane Holland, MI 49424 616-392-3028 Hydro Grow Room 15201 N. Holly Rd., Unit B Holly MI, 48430 248-369-8333 Holland Hydroponic Outlet 1220 Phoenix Rd. South Haven, MI 49090 269-637-5941 ________________________

HGR Garden Supply 15231 N. Holly Rd. Holly, MI 48442 248-369-8333 _________________________ J&W Farm & Garden Center 10906 Main St. Honor, MI 49640 231-325-3433 _________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 705 S. Loxley Houghton Lake, MI 48629 989-422-2800 _________________________ Hydro Vision 1247 E. Grand River Howell, MI 48843 517-552-4965 Grow Fast Gardens 5015 South Straits Hwy. Indian River, MI 49749 231-238-4113 Grow Maxx 1220 S. Stephenson Ave. Iron Mountain, MI 49801 920-447-2211

Holland Hydroponic Outlet 604 N. Beacon Blvd. Grand Haven, MI 49423 616-847-1277

Hydro Magic 595 South Cedar St. Imlay City, MI 48444 810-721-7232

Green Thumb Garden Center 22963 Woodward Ave. Ferndale, MI 48220 248-439-1851

BSS Garden Supplies 8899 Peck Rd. Unit #2 Greenville, MI 48838 616-225-7000

Urban Garden Supply 4516 Pasadena Ave. Flint, MI 48504 810-733-0420

It is Green Ville Gardens 11500 Morgan Mills Rd., NE Greenville, MI 48838 616-745-0500

Ionia Hydroponics & Indoor Garden Supply 2555 N. State(M-66) Rd. Ionia, MI 48846 616-523-6111

Hydro Vision 495 Fenway Dr. Fenton, MI 810-714-1719

Hydrocapitol 258 Cooper St. Jackson, MI 49201 517-795-2633

Mighty Grow 2418 West Michigan Ave. Jackson MI 49202 517-962-4822 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 1745 West Main St. Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-978-8697 _________________________

Horizen Hydroponics 4646 W. Main St. Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-567-3333 _________________________

Kalamazoo Indoor Garden 450 W. Maple Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-344-2550 _________________________ Plainwell Indoor/Outdoor Garden Center 8201 Douglas Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-532-1167 Zoo City Grower Supply 3514 S. Westnedge Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-903-2450 Halms Hydro 2368 S. Huron Rd. Kawkawklin, MI 48631 989-402-1296 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 2815 East Grand River Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 517-580-0555 _________________________ Howz It Growing 1290 S. Lapeer Rd. Lake Orion, MI 48360 248-693-5747 Capital City Growers 2208 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 517-853-9988 _________________________

Horizen Hydroponics 5425 W. Saginaw Hwy Lansing, MI 48917 517-323-ROOT _________________________

Superior Growers Supply Inc. 3928 West Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI 48917 517-327-1900 _________________________ H2O Hydroponics 5210 W. Saginaw Hwy Lansing, MI 48917 517-703-8120 Edenz Hydro 560 Oak St. Lapeer, MI 48446 248-291-6691 Howz It Growing 700 Main St. Suite 101B Lapeer, MI 48446 810-245-8687

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Two Guys and a Grow Shop 11917 E. Lennon Rd. Lennon, MI 48449 810-621-3790 _________________________

Superior Growers Supply Inc. 292200 Seven Mile West Livonia, MI 48152 248-473-0450 _________________________ The Barefoot Gardener 11635 Fulton St. Suite 300B Lowell, MI 49331 616-987-3457

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Edenz Hydro 1411 West 14 Mile Madison Heights, MI 48071 248-291-6691 Hypnotic Hydroponics 321 Deer St. Manistique, MI 49854 906- 341-GROW BIg Creek Hydroponics 555 Old Little Lake Rd. Marquette, MI 49855 906-249-5297 Indoor Garden Center 236 Mystic Ave. Medford, MA 02155 781-874-1693 Sweet Greens Hydroponics 113 Fifth St. Michigan Center, MI 49254 517-764-9232 Stealth Hydro 14630 King Dr. Milan, MI 48160 734-961-4333 _________________________

The Grow Shop 2609 Telegraph Rd. Monroe, MI 48162 734-384-4769 _________________________ Cedar Garden Wholesale 132 North Bound Gratiot Mt. Clements, MI 48043 586-738-0030 Green Grow LLC 9046 N. Dort Mt. Morris, MI 48458 810-687-9500 Indoor Grower’s Edge 2410 S. Leaton Suite 5 Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-317-0944 Sunshine Supply Co. 5800 East Pickard St. Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-775-3700 Cedar Garden Wholesale 132 North Bound Gratiot Mt. Clements, MI 48043 586-738-0030 Big Blue Hydroponics 590 Ottawa St. Muskegon, MI 49441 231-571-9400 Growing Consultant Hydroponics & Things 2260 Apple Ave. Muskegon, MI 49442 231-773-5600

194

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Hydro Giant #5 290 S. Telegraph Pontiac, MI 48341 248-706-7600 _________________________ Green Lantern H2O 1383 E. Laketon Ave. Muskegon, MI 49442 231-722-0420 _________________________

Plant Paradise 4593 W. US 10 Ludington, MI 49431 231-843-3000 Northern Lights Hydroponic & Garden Supply 29090 Campbell Rd. Madison Heights, MI 48071 248-439-6269

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Third Coast Horticulture Supply 1965 Holton Rd Muskegon, MI 49445 231-288-1762 _________________________ Harbor Country Hydro 17648 US Highway 12 New Buffalo, MI 49117 269-469-2242 _________________________

Flo-N-Grow Hydroponics Co. 214 North 2nd St. Niles, MI 49120 269-683-1877 www.FNGhydro.com _________________________

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply W. 8065 US Highway 2 Iron Mountain, MI 49801 906-828-2000 _________________________

HGR Garden Supply 200 E. Main St. Owosso MI 48867 989-472-4999 _________________________ Owlyn Solutions for Growers 2398 Jolly Rd., Suite 300 Okemos, MI 48864 517-203-5070 Watch it Grow Hydroponics 407 W. Center St. Omer, MI 48749 989-653-2141 Happy Harvesters Hydroponics 1772 S. Ortonville Dr. Ortonville, MI 48462 248-793-3357 Healthy Harvest Garden Supply 233 South State St. Oscoda, MI 48750 989-569-3006 Hydro Grow Source 10609 East Lovejoy Perry, MI 48872 517-376-8583 Super Grow 288 W. Montcalm Pontiac, MI 48342 248-24SUPER (78737) Green Earth Hydroponics 8127 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002 269-342-419

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Hydroponics Highway Inc. 2708 14th Ave. Port Huron MI, 48060 810-982-4769 _________________________ Ultra Green Hydroponics 9300 Telegraph Rd. Redford, MI 48239 313-534-9377 Hydro Vision 66783 Gratiot Ave. Richmond, MI 48062 586-430-1956 Happy Gardening 20840 Telegraph Rd. Romulus, MI 48174 734-486-4115 _________________________

Growers Edge 175 Marcell Dr. Rockford, MI 49341 _________________________

Green Thumb Hydroponics & Organic Indoor Supply 8460 Algoma, Suite G Rockford, MI 49341 616-884-5500 _________________________

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Hydro Giant #2 19363 Eureka Rd. Southgate, MI 48195 734-281-8888 _______________________

Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 23529 Little Mack Ave. St. Clair, MI 48080 586-775-9485 _______________________ Horti-Toad Hydroponic Supply 21323 Harper St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-944-0650 Advanced Hydroponic Growers 705 N. US 27 St.Johns, MI 48879 989-227-0408 Hydro City LLC 34863 Schoenherr Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-883-9075 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 7889 Telegraph Rd. Taylor, MI 48180 313-908-7554 _________________________ Hydro Grow, The 8210 Telegraph Rd. Taylor, MI 48180 313-633-0641 Cultivation Innovations 6652 Lewis Ave. Suite 7 Temperance, MI 48182 419-725-4769 Great Lakes Green Horticultural Supply 757 S. U.S. Highway 131 Three Rivers, MI 49093 269-278-130 Grow Depot 9 North Main St. Three Rivers, MI 49093 269-273-4769

High Tech Garden Supply 28000 Groesbeck Hwy. Roseville, MI 48066 586-435-2335 _________________________

Grow Store, The 90 N U.S. Highway 31 South Traverse City, MI 49685-7923 231-421-5191 _________________________

Plant Paradise 7657 Michigan Ave. Rothbury, MI 49452 231-843-3000 GrowMart 2137 Warwick St. Saginaw, MI 48603 989-799-6330 Home Grown Hydroponics 4880 Gratiot Rd., Suite # 2 Saginaw, MI 48638 989-781-1930 Third Coast Garden Supply LLC 2327 Auburn Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48195 586-997-2700 _________________________

Superior Growers Supply, Inc. 5716 South Pennsylvania Ave. South Lansing, MI 48911 517-393-1600 ________________________

Cultivation Station 1990 US-31 N. Suite C Traverse City, MI 49686 231-421-8118 _________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 720 South Garfield Ave. Traverse City, MI 49686 231-668-6913 _________________________ Woodland Shore Garden Center 956 W. South Airport Rd. Traverse City, MI 49686 231-421-5901 Hydro Vision 1910 West Rd. Trenton, MI 48183 734-301-3745

Hydro Pro’s Indoor Garden 45410 Van Dyke Ave. Utica, MI 48317 586-803-0966 Forever Green 340 S. Main St. Vassar, MI 48768 989-882-9177 H2 Hydro 702 N. Pontiac Trail Walled Lake, MI 48390 248-669-6063 _________________________

Hydroharrys – WL 1138 E. West Maple Rd. Walled Lake, MI 48390 248-896-0099 _________________________

Beste’s Hydroponics 21410 Schoenherr Rd. Warren, MI 48089 586-776-1794 _________________________ Hydro King Indoor Garden Supply 32000 Van Dyke Ave. Warren, MI 48093 586-939-0518 Greco’s Nursery & Garden Supplies 12219 E. 11 Mile Rd. Warren, MI 48093 586-759-1335 Indoor Garden Superstore 2570 Dixie Hwy. Waterford Twp., MI 48328 248-673-2200; 877-22-HYDRO Happy Harvesters Hydroponics 5720 Highland Rd. Waterford, MI 48327 248-599-9761 Light Green Water 3661 Highland Rd. Waterford, MI 48329 248-681-0001 Bubonic Hydroponics 38540 Michigan Ave. Wayne MI, 48184 734-331-2316 _________________________

Hydrospot 34236 Michigan Ave. Wayne, MI 48184 734-722-1285 _________________________ B&B Hydro Supply 28974 Warren Rd. Westland, MI 48185 734-469-280 Ultra Green Hydroponics 8067 N. Wayne Rd. Westland, MI 48185 734-425-1000 G.C. II 1006 E. Colby St., Suite A Whitehall, MI 49417 231-893-2400 _________________________

Indoor Eden 9281 East-M 36 Whitmore, MI 48189 810-355-1465 _________________________

AAA Hydroponics LLC 22 50th St. Wyoming, MI 49504 616-249-8338 _________________________

Cultivation Station – Grand Rapids, The 4907 S. Division Ave. Wyoming, MI 49548 616-855-4440 _________________________

Stealth Hydro 15 E. Cross St. Ypsilanti, MI 48198 866-998-1916 _________________________

The Grow Stop 7380 Highland Rd. Waterford, MI 48327 248-599-9231 _________________________

Still-H2O Inc. 14375 North 60th St. Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-2822 Eco Garden Supply 800 Transfer Door 25 in rear St. Paul, MN 55114 651-647-1896

MISSISSIPPI Urban Organics 2217 E Canal St. Picayune, MS 39466 504-352-4709

MISSOURI Versaponics LTD 879 South Kingshighway Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63703 573-450-5401 _________________________

Heartland Hydrogardens 705 Vandiver Dr., Suite G Columbia, MO 65202 573-474-4769 _________________________ Grow Your Own Hydroponics 3617 Saint John Ave. Kansas City, MO 64123 816-241-2122 _________________________

Grower’s Edge 175 Marcell Dr. Rockford, MI 49341 _________________________ U-Grow 1724 North, 13th St. St. Louis, MO 63106 314-452-6368 _________________________

Indoor Gardening 10 NE 3rd St. Faribault, MN 55021 507-209-1546 _________________________

Interior Gardens 115 -1620 Central Ave. NE Minneapolis, MN 55413 800-498-4178; 612-870-9077 _________________________

Midwest Hydroponics 5825 Excelsior Blvd. St. Louis Park, MN 55416 888-449-2739 _________________________ Eden Indoor Organic Gardens 831 Highway 75 N. Moorhead, MN 56560 218-477-EDEN (3336) _________________________

American Garden Supply 601-6th Ave. N. Princeton, MN 55371 763-631-0543 _________________________

Alpengrow Nursery Supplies 238 Highway 93 S. Eureka, MT 59917 406-882-4496 Montana Grow Hydro 2501B Vaughn Rd. Great Falls, MT 59400 406-788-1549 Big Sky Garden Supply 528 West Idaho Kallispell, MT 59901 406-755-1465

Cornucopia Grow Your Own 127 Stoner Creek Rd. Lakeside, MT 59922 406-709-1076 Dr. Green Thumbs 1106 West Park Livingston, MO 59047 406-222-7440 Bizzy Beez LLP 5785 Highway 93 South Whitefish, MT 59937 406-863-9937

NEBRASKA

Duluth Hydroponics 26 W 1st St. Duluth, MN 55802 218-341-7253

Brew and Grow 8302 Highway 65 NE. Minneapolis, MN 55432 763-780-8191

Butteopia 127 Main St. Butte, Montana 59701 1-406-782-8476 _________________________

Box of Rain INC 860 North Meridian Rd., Suite B #19&20 Kalispell, MT 59901 406-755-RAIN (7246)

MINNESOTA

The Interior Tomato, LLC 519 N. Central Ave. Duluth, MN 55087 218-260-5167 _________________________

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Worm’s Way Missouri 1225 North Warson Rd. St. Louis, MO 63132 800-285-9676 _________________________

Green Thumb Organics 249 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. St. Peters, MO 63376 636-397-4769 (GROW) _________________________

MONTANA Heightened Harvests 3103 Harrison Ave. Butte, MT 59701 406-494-4222 One World – Life Products 906 Broadwater Billings, MT 59101 406-839-9969 Heightened Harvest 1415 S 32nd St. West Billings, MT 59102 406-656-1156

Hydro Store, The 7145 W. Ann Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89130 702-434-9376 Nevada Hydroponics 4700B Maryland, Suite 1 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-798-2852 Anything Grows 190 West Moana Lane Reno, NV 89509 775-828-1460 Everything Green Hydroponics Box 34869 Reno, Nevada 89533 The Hydro Store 121 Woodland Ave #160 Reno, NV 89523 775-787-2760

NEW HAMPSHIRE The Beez Kneez Garden Supply 180 Emerald St. Keene, NH 03431 603-903-1488 Greenlife Garden Supply 885 Second St. Manchester, NH 03102 603-782-8259 _________________________

Hydro101 545 Hooksett Rd. #24 Manchester, NH 03104 603-782-8894 _________________________

Bodhi Organic Garden Supply 1438 S1 St., Suite 6 Lincoln, NE 68502 402-438-6785

Natural Roots Hydroponics 24 Crown St. Nashua, NH 03060 603-204-5528

Patio-Ponics 3255 Cornhusker Hwy., Suite 4 Lincoln, NE 68504 402-466-9218 ________________________

Four Seasons Horticulture Supply 2076 White Mountain Hwy. North Conway, NH 03860 603-733-5444

NEW JERSEY Paradigm Gardens 8949 J St., Suite 5 Omaha, NE 68127 402-339-4949 _________________________

NEVADA Carson Valley Hydroponics 2520 Empire Ranch Rd. Carson City, NV 89701 775-884-4769 Lorraine Indoor Gardens 290 Spear Court Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-7757

Garden State Hydroponics 511 Avenel St. Avenel, NJ 07001 888-300-8711 Boyer Indoor Gardening 57 Crescent Blvd. Gloucester City, NJ 08030 856-456-5000 Bergen County Hydroponics 70 Essex St. Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-2001 Garden Indoors of New Jersey 600 Meadowlands Pkwy., Suite 25 Secaucus, NJ 07094 201-865-1616

Hydro Store, The 1014 W. Sunset Rd. Henderson, NV 89014 702-434-7365

East Coast Horticultural Supply 1652 Hurffville Rd. Sewell, NJ 08080 856-228-5290

AAA Indoor Organic Garden SuperCenter 2101 S. Decatur Blvd. #21 Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-450-4769

77HYDRO 37 Fairfield Pl. West Caldwell, NJ 07006 877-774-9376

Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 7850 Dean Martin Dr., Suite 506 Las Vegas, NV 89139 702-247-4769 All American Hydroponics 2675 East Patrick Lane, Unit 8 Las Vegas, NV 89120 702-894-9888 Best Hydroponic Supply 6818 W Cheyenne Las Vegas, NV 89108 702-750-9300 Grow Hydro Gardens 5870 S. Decatur, Suite 11 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702-997-7053; Toll Free 866-568-4769

Claraqua 4 Redwood Court West Windsor, NJ 08550

NEW MEXICO

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AHL Year Round Garden Supply 1051 San Mateo Blvd. S. Albuquerque, NM 87108 505-255-3677 _________________________

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All Seasons Gardening 3600 Osuna Rd., Suite 406 Alburquerque, NM 87109 505-508-4292 _________________________ Common Shaman 1319 San Mateo N.E. Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-255-6463 Heavy’s Grow Supply 1325 San Mateo Blvd. NE. Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-315-4573 Dr. Green Hydroponics 129 E. Idaho Ave. Las Cruces, NM 88005 575-524-6751 _________________________

All Seasons Gardening 1228 Parkway, Suite E. Sante Fe, NM 87507 505-438-GROW _________________________ Santa Fe Hydroponics 851 W. San Mateo Rd., Suite 4 Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-467-8454 New Mexico Hydroponics 923 W. Almeada Santa Fe, NM 87501 505-316-5855 Taos Gardening Supply 120 Bertha Taos, NM 87571 575-758-9131

NEW YORK Organica: Garden Supply & Hydroponics 296 Delaware Ave. Albany, NY 12209 518-618-7666 The Grow Room 32-32 49th St. Astoria, NY 11103 718-218-GROW (4769) Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 19 Front St. Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-2005; 800-850-4769 The Grape Vine 4020 Hempstead Turnpike Bethpage, NY 11714 516-731-1100 Bronx Hydro & Garden 39 Bruckner Blvd. Bronx, NY 10454 718-993-3787 Bklyn Hydro & Garden 316 McGuiness Blvd. Brooklyn, NY 11222 718-383-0095 Brooklyn Farms 51 Hicks St. Brooklyn, NY 11231 347-725-3491 Indoor Outdoor Gardener 8223 5th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-836-2402 Buffalo Roots Hydroponics and Organics 3231 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14214 716-240-9075 Hydroponics of Buffalo 1497 Hertel Ave. Buffalo, NY 14216 716-838-3545 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 340 West at 59 Central Nyack, NY 10960

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors California Hydroponics 27 Corporate Circle East Syracuse, NY 13057 315-432-9387 Upstate Hydroponics 2026 Lake Rd., Unit B Elmira, NY 14903 607-483-9199 _________________________ FutureGarden Inc. 59 Central Ave. Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-420-0884 _________________________ Sunflower Supplies, LLC 176-18 Central Ave. Farmingdale, NY 11735 631-651-8281

Harvest Moon Hydroponics Henrietta Townline Plaza 3047 West Henrietta Rd. Rochester, NY 14623 716-865-7353 ________________________

Hydro Garden Center 1069B Lyell Ave. Rochester, NY 14606 1-800-277-1322 ________________________

East Coast Hydroponics 14649 Horace Harding Exp. Flushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880

Sunset Hydroponics & Home Brewing 1590 West Ridge Rd. Rochester, NY 14615 866-395-9204

Healthy Harvest Organics & Hydro 163 Broadway Fort Edwart, NY 12828 518-480-4698

Hydroponic Garden Centers Inc 146 49 Horace Harding Exp. Rushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880

Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 10 Saratoga Ave. S. Glen Falls, NY 12803 518-798-820 Hydroponic Shops of America 2568 Western Ave. Guilderland, NY 12009 518-355-1503 Hydroponic Shops of America 720 Willow Ave. Ithaca, NY 14850 607-697-0199 Greentree Garden Supply 606 Elmira Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-3666 Mike’s Nursery & Grower Supplies 199 E. Fairmount Ave. Lakewood, NY 14750 716-763-1612 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 217 Route 32 N. New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3633 _________________________

LiquidSun of New York 1702 Fiero Ave. Rotterdam, NY 12150 518-952-4654 Hydroponics Shops of America 2606 Erie Blvd. Syracuse, NY 13224 315-251-2516 _________________________

Green Zone Hydroponics 2148 Niagara Falls Blvd. Tonawanda, NY. 14150 716-693-9663 _________________________ Green Zone Hydroponics 2928 Southwestern Blvd. Orchard Park, NY 14127 716-677-9663 _________________________

Follow The Sun 1185 B Yonkers Ave. Yonkers, NY 10704 914-237-2760

NORTH CAROLINA

Sunlight Solutions Hydroponics 2045 Niagara Falls Blvd., Suite 13 Niagara Falls, NY 14304 888-GROWBOX

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 55 Shiloh Rd. #6 Asheville, NC 28803 1-828-277-3488

Crossroads Hydroponics and Organics 181 South Plank Rd. (Route 52) Newburgh, NY 12550 845-561-4769

Fifth Season Gardening Company 21 B Westside Dr. Asheville, NC 28806 828-225-5007

KG Garden Supply 4575 Commercial Dr. New Hartford, NY 13413 877-KG-HYDRO

Fifth Season Gardening Company 45 Banks Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 828-253-4112

The Grow Room 8 Bridge St. Nyack, NY 10960 800-449-9630

Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 South Greensboro St. Carrboro, NC 27510 919-932-7600 ________________________

Revolution Hydroponics 309 West State St. Olean, NY 14760 716-373-GROW (4769) Mor Gro Hydroponics 5680 State Route 104 E Oswego, NY 13126 315-877-8725 Environmental Gardens 8 John Walsh Blvd., Suite 310 Peekskills, NY 10566 800-254-0507; 914-736-6676

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High Tech Garden Supply 2712 B Freedom Dr. Charlotte, NC 28208 704-697-0911 ________________________ Flow & Grow Hydroponics & Organic Garden Center 4521 Cumberland Rd. Fayetteville, NC 28306 910-423-FLOW (3569) Hydro Garden Zone 2222 Patterson St. Suite #1 Green Grove NC 27407 336-854-0788 Fifth Season Gardening Company 1616 D-3 Battleground Ave. Greensboro, NC 27408 336-271-3373 Good Harvest Garden Center 629 Oakridge Farm Hwy. Mooresville, NC 28115 704-658-9136 Fifth Season Gardening Company 5619-A Hillsborough St. Raleigh, NC 27606 919-852-4747 New Age Gardens 2236A US Highway 70 Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-299-9989 Progressive Gardens 6005 Oleander Dr. Wilmington, NC 28403 910-395-1156 LiquidSun East 12 Bay St., Unit 105 Wilmington, MA 01887 978-447-5442

Harvest Moon Hydroponics 147 Fourth St. Troy, NY 10960 The Green Box 495 9th Ave. NY, NY 10018 212-967-4777 thegreenboxhydro.com _________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

The Bubbling Bucket 11156 Kenwood Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-469-2825 _________________________ Kissed by the Sun Hydroponic 10740 Reading Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45241 513-769-0159 Cleveland Garden Center Inc. 727 East 185th St. Cleveland, OH 44119 216-481-7868 Grow Wizard, The 5700 Denison Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102 216-961-2500 Herb-N-Garden Center 14901 Puritas Ave. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-252-2001 Garden Indoors of Ohio 4720 Indianola Ave. Columbus, OH 43214 800-833-6868 Magic Home Garden 4538 Indianola Ave. Columbus, OH 43214 614-263-2440 Miami Valley Hydro 8220 N. Dixie Dr. Dayton, OH 45414 937-280-4468 _________________________

OHIO Akron Garden Center 434 W Wilbeth Rd. Akron, OH 44314 330-724-2700 Summit Hydroponics 1030 Kenmore Blvd. Akron, OH 44314-2114 330-753-5222 Hydro House of Ohio 2234 South Union Ave. Alliance, OH 44601 330-680-4014 _________________________

Purely Hydroponic, LLC 1507 Lear Industrial Pkwy. Avon, OH 44011 866-787-5060 _________________________ Campbells Indoor Gardening Supplies 1721 Greenville Rd. Bristolville, OH 44402 330-889-0049 Magic Home Gardens 209 Cemetery Rd. Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-837-2440 Dumont Seed Co. 619 30th St. N.W. Canton, OH 44709 330-492-0204 _________________________

Dayton Hydroponics 4920 Provident Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-942-7111 BWGS-NC 4045 Perimeter West Dr., Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28214 800-316-1306 ________________________

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_________________________ Eastside Hydroponics 834 Ohio Pike #318 Cincinnati, OH 45245 513-528-4769

Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. Dayton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 _________________________

USA Hydrogarden 542 Griswold Rd. Elyria, OH 44035 440-324-4769 _________________________ Garden Connections 3341 Centerpoint Dr. Grove City, OH 43123 614-871-0707 Advanced Hydrorganics Indoor Garden Center 5204 Darrow Rd. Hudson, OH 44236 234-380-1287 Sweet Greens 5540 Brecksville Rd. Independence, OH 44131 800-421-7084 _________________________

The Grow Shop 165 Davids St. Marion, OH 43302 740-223-7467 _________________________

Urban Gardens 671 E. Center St. Marion, OH 43302 740-375-2800 _________________________ Top Garden Products 8600 East Ave., Suite C Mentor, OH 44060 440-290-8773 Green Garden Indoor Garden Center 1664 North Main St. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-494-1234 _________________________

Gardening-Indoor 5851 Youngstown-Warren Rd. Niles, OH 44446 USA 330-932-1023 _________________________ Pet Finatics LLC 3150 Navarre Ave., Suite A Oregon, OH 43616 USA Hydrogarden 542 Griswold Rd. Elyria, OH 44035 440-324-4769 Indoor Gardens 1222 Hill Rd., N. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-866-6065 _________________________

USA Hydrogarden - West 11001 Route 250 Suite B9 Milin, OH 44846 419-499-0480 ________________________

Trinity Hydro Organics 465 Woodman Dr. Riverside, OH 45431 937-252-GROW _________________________ USA Hydrogarden - West 11001 Route 250 Suite B9 Milin, OH 44846 419-499-0480 Hot Hydro ® 855 S. Holland-Sylvania Rd. #2 Toledo, OH 43615 419-866-1266 Organic Garden Center 5215 Monroe St. Toledo, OH 43623 419-517-8110

Hydro Gardens Wholesale 1144 N Memorial Dr. Lancaster, OH 43130 855-210-5599 _________________________ Carefree Garden Center 134 West Dr. Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 CropKing 134 West Dr. Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 USA Hydrogarden 7450 Industrial Pkwy., Suite A Lorain, OH 44053 440-282-4880

Toledo Hydroponics Ltd. 855 S. Holland-Sylvania Rd., Suite 2 Toledo, OH 43615 877-893-0716 _________________________

Plant Lighting Hydroponics 2201-A Pinnacle Parkway Twinsburg, OH 44087 888-258-0670 _________________________ Greenleaf Hydroponics 1805 Elm Rd. Warren, OH 44483 330-372-1039

Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. West Carrolton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 _________________________

Gardening-Indoor 9215 Market St. Youngstown (North Lima), OH 44452 330-758-0272 _________________________

Anthony’s Garden & Light Supply 93779 B Troy Lane Coos Bay, OR 97420 541-266-8822 Corvallis Hydroponics & Organics 5490 SW Philomath Blvd. Corvallis, OR 97333 541-738-2820 Emerald Valley Gardens Inc. 88680 McVay Hwy. Corvallis, OR 97405 541-636-3763 _________________________

Indoor Garden Worx 304 West Monroe St. Zanesville, OH 43701 866-900-9679

OKLAHOMA Tulsa County Hydro-Organics 1928 W. Albany Broken Arrow, OK 74012 918-259-HYDRO

Aqua Serene 2836 W. 11th Ave. Eugene, OR 97402 541-302-9073 _________________________

AAAAHA! Hydroponics Unlimited P.O. Box 74 Oakhurst, OK 74050 Organics OKC Garden Supply 2800 N Pennsylvania Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73107 405-528-GROW The OKC Urban Gardener 3711 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-521-9300 Urban Garden 3141 E. 15th St. Tulsa, OK 74104 918-289-0018 The Mad Farmer Tulsa LLC 11630 E. 51st Tulsa, OK 74146 918-615-3735

OREGON Indoor Hydroponic Garden & Lights 5990 SW 185th Ave. Aloha, OR 97006 503-848-3335 Astoria Indoor Garden Supply 1343 Duane St., Unit C Astoria OR 97103 503-468-0606 _________________________

Aqua Serene 465 Applegate Way, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-7600 _________________________ Rogue Silicates Inc. POB 21 Azalea, OR 97410 541-837-8590 American Agriculture 9966 SW. Arctic Dr. Beaverton, OR 97005 503-641-3500 _________________________

B.I.G.S. 35 NW Bond Bend, OR 97701 541-385-5222 _________________________ Northern Light & Garden 9290 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy. Beaverton, OR 97005 503-297-7331

Aurora Innovations PO Box 22041 Eugene, OR 97402 866-376-8578 _________________________

Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 1845 S.W. Hwy. 101 Suite 3 Lincoln, OR 97367 541-994-7070 Green Thumb Hydrogarden & Organic Supply 2021 West Main St. Medford, OR 97501 541-779-8600 Growing Crazy (Hooked On Hydroponics) 817 W. 2nd St. Medford, OR 97501 _______________________

In & Out Gardens 1574 Skypark Dr. Medford, OR 97501 541-858-3333 _________________________ Ladybug Indoor Gardens 3960 W. Main St. Medford, OR 97501 541-618-4459 Advanced Organics & Garden Supply 290- B Merlin Ave. Merlin, OR 97532 541-659-1466 _________________________

Vital Organics Northwest 457 River Ave. Eugene, OR 97404 541-688-0028 Oregon’s Constant Gardener 2385 West 11th Eugene, OR 97402 541-636-4220 Advanced Indoor Gardens 17831 S.E. 82nd Dr. Gladstone, OR 97027 503-305-6341 Northern Light & Garden 1203 Rogue River Hwy. Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-1700

Wizard’s Garden, LLC 621 Spruce St., Unit C Myrtle Point, OR 97458 541-572-2333 _________________________ Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 454 S.W. Coast Hwy. Newport, OR 97365 541-265-8252 _________________________

Vital Organix 932-B S.E. “M” St. Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-226-9283 _________________________

Gorilla Garden Supply 2011 Union Ave North Bend, OR 97459 541-756-5005 _________________________ Green Garden Indoor Garden Center 1664 North Main St. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-494-1234 Indoor Garden Depot 3260 SE Oak Grove Blvd. Oak Grove, OR 97267-1421 503-786-2445

Healthy Harvest Indoor Garden Suite #1, 1635 S.E. Tualatin Valley Hwy. Hillsboro, OR 97123 503-640-0995 _________________________ Gorge Garden Center 1203 12th St., Suite H Hood River, OR 97031 541-386-4769 _________________________

In & Out Gardens 93484 Hwy 99 South Junctin City, OR 97448 541-234-2342 _________________________

BWGS-OR 18201 N.E. Portal Way, Suite 104 Portland, OR 97230 888-316-1306 _________________________ Cascade Horticulture 19959 E. Burnside Portland, OR 97233 503-661-1700 Garden Spout, The 4532 South East 63rd Ave. Portland, OR 97206 503-788-4769 Indoor Hydroponic Garden & Lights 1409 S.E. 82nd Ave. Portland, OR 97216 503-445-2250 Jantzen Beach Hydroponics 909 N. Tomahawk Island Dr., Suite 103 Portland, OR 97217 503-546-3185 Lights Distributing 9843 S.W. 55th Ave. Portland, OR 97219 Rain or Shine 13126 N.E. Airport Way Portland, OR 97230 503-255-1981 Roots Garden Supply 5426 North Gay Ave. Portland, OR 97217 503-285-4768 Urban Flora 2865 South East Portland, OR 97214 503-236-3344 BIGS Warehouse 2606 S.W. 4th St., Unit B Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-8886 Indoor Garden Supply 536 S.W. 6th St. (rear alley) Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-7750

Paradise Supply LLC 560 N.E. “F” St., Unit C Grand Pass, OR 97526 541-955-7293 Redwood Nursery 1303 Redwood Ave. Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-2642

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All About Hydroponics 633 Claude Rd. Ontario, OR 98914 208-731-9823 Phoenix Organics 4543 S. Pacific Highway Phoenix, OR 97535 541-535-1134 American Agriculture 9220 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97216 800-433-6805 Evergreen Garden Supply 8830 N.E. Sandy Blvd. Unit C Portland, OR 97220 503-408-6635 Bloom Garden Supply 518 N.E. 20th Ave. Portland, OR 97232 971-255-1336

DC Hydroponics & Organics 7275 Green Siding Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-679-3700 Roseburg Hydroponics 853 SE Stephens St. Roseburg, OR 97470 541-229-1420

Pharmer Hydroponics 11135 S.W. Industrial Way, Bldg 10-4 Tualatin, OR 97062 503-486-5751 Grow Big Inc. 16572 SE 362nd Dr. Sandy, OR 97055 503-826-8277 Greener Side of Life 623 West Centennial Blvd. Springfield, OR 97477 541-636-3552 Splatt Hydroponics 23842 NE Halsey St., Suite B Wood Village, OR 97060-1002 503-912-0231

PENNSYLVANIA Pocono Hydroponic Solutions 25 Route 611 Bartonsville, PA 18321 570-730-4544 Green Solutions Hydroponics 1700 Orange St. Berwick, PA 18603 570-752-1530 Garden Indoors of Pennsylvania 208 Route 13 Bristol, PA 19007 800-227-4567 422 GROW 1775 North Main St. Ext. Butler, PA 16001-1327 724-561-3777 ________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 20232 Route 19, Unit 6 Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-473-1113 ________________________ Hydrofarm East 270 Canal Rd. Fairless Hills, PA 19030 888-780-4567 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 830 Route 119 Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-1118 Buds to Blooms Garden and Supply Co., LLC 509 Orchard Ave. Kennett Square, PA 19348 610-388-0100 _________________________

Indoor Garden Center 1697 SE 25th St. Salem, OR 97302 503-566-7888 Northern Light & Garden Salem 1915 Lancester Dr. Salem, OR 97305 503-364-4769 Moonshine Park Farm 135 South East 62nd, Unit F South Beach, OR 97366 541-444-2298 Oregon’s Constant Gardener 2053 Laura St. Springfield, OR 97477 541-747-8170 Rogue Farmers 1007 S. Pacific Hwy. Talent, OR 97540 541-512-4600

The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St. Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 _________________________ The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St. Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 Flairform PO 1417 Lansdale, PA 19446 215-395-6353 ________________________

Samurai Greenhouse Supply 32067 Old Hwy. 34 Tanget, OR 97389 541-928-3431

Westcoast Organic & Hydroponic Supply 12410 SE 282nd Ave., Unit C Boring, OR 97009 503-512-7710

Basin Indoor Gardening 417 N. Spring St. Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-273-2023

Everybody’s Garden Center 2701 S.E. 14th Ave. Portland, OR 97202 800-669-5483

Grow America Garden Supply LLC 11511 S.W. Pacific Highway Tigard, OR 97223 503-841-6868

The Good Earth Organics 30088 Redwood Hwy. Cave Junction, OR 97523 541-592-4496

Just the Tip Gardening 631 Main St. Lebanon, OR 97355 541-258-3234

Evergreen Garden Supply 3393 SE 21st Ave. Portland, OR 97055 503-206-5670

Portland Hydroponics & Organics 11564 S.W. Pacific Highway Tigard, OR 97223 503-746-4303

RH Distribution PO 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 888-545-8112 _________________________ Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A E. 28th Div Hwy Lititz, PA 17543 717-626-7007

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A E. 28th Div Hwy Lititz, PA 17543 717-626-7007

GrowRI 184 Admiral Kalbfus Rd. Newport, RI 02840 401-619-0776

Hydro Ponics of Harrisburg 310 S. 10th St. Lemoyne, PA 17043 877-684-3808

Hydro-Earth 1243 Mineral Springs Ave. North Providence, RI 02904 401-305-5520

Always Green Garden Supply 4400 Old William Penn Hwy., Suite 106 Monroeville, PA 15146 412-646-1243 New Stanton Hydro 150 Post Ave. New Stanton, PA 15672 724-635-0297 Full Bloom Hydroponics 84 South 24th St. Pittsburgh, PA 15203 888-872-3602 _________________________

Gardening-Indoor 20550 Rt. #19 Cranberry Twp. Pitsburgh, PA 16066 724-591-8086 _________________________ Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 2008 Smallman St. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-232-7030 Healthy Gardens and Supply 1008 Lincoln Avenue, Prospect Park, PA 19076 866-32-HYDRO Northeast Hydroponics & Homebrewing 221 Scranton Carbondale Hwy. Scranton, PA 18508 570-209-7924

The Organic Grow Hut 375 Putnam Pike, Suite 13 Smithfield, RI 02828 401-349-4141 _________________________

Western Pennsylvania Innovative Gardening 1177 Pittsburgh Rd., Suite 103 Valencia, PA 16059 724-903-0800 Organic Garden Center 1307 Park Ave. Williamsport, PA 17701 570-322-3120 _________________________

PA Hydroponics & Home Gardening Supply 20 Quaker Church Rd. York Springs, PA 17372 717-528-4175

Good To Grow 51 Old Tower Hill Rd. Wakefield, RI 02879 401-783-1733 _________________________ Grow With Us 709 Warwick Ave. Warwick, RI 02888 401-270-6998

Solar Seed Hydroponics, Inc. 2406 Putman Pike Chepachet, RI 02814 401-710-9010 Organically Grown 768 Atwood Ave. Cranston, RI 02920 401-944-0549

198

Green Earth Products Inc. 5700 Highway 79 S., Unit 1 Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-1307 _________________________

TENNESSEE

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (South Austin) 2125-A Goodrich Ave. Austin, TX 78704 512-440-4769

Innergrow Hydroponics 24451 Interstate Hwy. 20 Wills Point, TX 75169 866-475-4769

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Deep Ellum) 2715 Main St. Dallas, TX 75226 214-745-4769

UTAH

Third Coast Horticulture Supplies 2715 Main St. Dallas, TX 75226 512-459-4353 Jolly Green Hydroponics (Greenhouse Horticultural Supplies) 13628 Neutron Rd. Dallas, TX 75244 866-WE-JOLLY; 469-341-5555 Lone Star Hydroponics & Organics 1302 Motor Circle Dallas, TX 75207 214-634-9376

Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3 Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400 _________________________

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Dallas) 2606 Manana Dr. Dallas, TX 75220 214-744-4769 Earth Organics 1360 Lee Trevino Dr., Suite 105 El Paso, TX 79936 915-591-9500

Mother Nature Hydroponics 1268 Post Rd. Warwick, RI 02888 401-780-0600

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Rd. Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643

Live to Grow 719 Bald Hill Rd. Warwick, Rl 02886 401-615-5122

Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Dr. Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Ft. Worth) 2501 Airport Frwy. Ft. Worth, TX 76111 817-834-4769

GrowRI 105 Franklin St., Unit # 38 Westerly, RI 02891 401-596-0904 _________________________

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Hiwy. Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318

Hydrofarm Central 950 Ave. S. Grand Prairie, TX 75050-1133 800-634-9999

Grow Green Garden Shop 3625 Fairmont Blvd. Knoxville, TN 37917 865-249-8259

Botani Garden 15120 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX 77083 281-575-1999

Good To Grow 34 Nooseneck Hill Rd. West Greenwich, RI 02817 401-392-3100 _________________________ Growin’ Crazy 93 Kingston Rd. Wyoming, RI 02898 401-284-0810

SOUTH CAROLINA GreenSpirit Hydrogarden 1864 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-1GRO

Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Rd., Suite 104 Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 _________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005 _______________________ All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188 _________________________

The Urban Garden Hydroponics 9557 Two Notch Rd., Suite E Columbia, SC 29223 803-788-9313 _________________________

Worm’s Way Tennessee 901 Main St. Nashville, TN 37072 800-397-4153 _________________________

TEXAS

All Seasons Indoor & Outdoor Supplies 1350 Hwy. 501 Business, Store 3&4 Conway, SC 29526 843-347-9266 _________________________ Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Rd. Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830

Maximum Yield USA | September 2013

Houston Discount Hydroponics 9380 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77063 713-464-9406 Hydroponic Nation 9001 Frey Rd. Houston, TX 77034 713-943-1115 Progressive Garden 3582 W T.C. Jester Blvd. Houston, TX 77018 713-681-7764 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Houston) 2420 Rusk St,. Houston, TX 77003 713-641-4769 Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply 6125 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. #206 Houston, TX 77041 713-856-8425 Texas Growers Supply 5990 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E. #602 Humble, TX 77396 281-441-3739

247 Garden Supply 535 D Clemson Rd. Columbia, SC 29229 803-788-4445

RHODE ISLAND Oakworld Garden Center 39 West St. Barrington, RI 02806 401-245-5705

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Skyes the Limit 455 B Fleming Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 843-566-2121 National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 450 Grim Lane York, PA 17406 877-779-7111(Northeast) _________________________

SOUTH DAKOTA

Innovative Hydroponic Supply Inc. 3286 North Park Blvd., Unit G Alcoa, TN 37701 865-984-0280

Full Time Garden Supply 1011 Ritner Hwy. Shippensburg, PA 17257 717-477-0350 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 9 N. Main St. Washington, PA 15301 724-222-0200

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Abundant Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 3101 Ave. E. Arlington, TX 76011 817-649-0100

Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 5121 Crest Way Dr., Suite 203 San Antonio, TX 78239 210-248-9309 HydroShack 1138 W. 20th St. Houston, TX 77008 713-292-1921 Hydro Mart 3841 Main St. Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-6114

Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 4201 South Congress Ave., Suite 310 Austin, TX 78745 512-444-2100

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (San Antonio) 3412 Copeland San Antonio, TX 78219 210-226-4769

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Central Austin) 5605 Burnet Rd. Austin, TX 78756 512-459-4769

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (San Antonio West) 6729 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78238 210-684-4769

Wasatch Hydroponics 4050 South Howick, Suite 11E Salt Lake City, UT 84107 801-716-4133

VERMONT Greenthumb - Vermont 394 Route 15 Jericho, VT 05465 802-899-4323 Peak Hydroponic Garden Supplies 20 School St. Plainfield, VT 05667 802-454-8000 LiquidSun® VT 1 Bellows Falls Rd. (Route 5 North) Putney, VT 05158 802-387-1100 Green Thumb Gardening P.O. Box 235, Route 15 Underhill, VT 5489 800-564-9376

VIRGINIA Fifth Season Gardening Co. 900 Preston Ave. Charlottesville, VA 22903 434-293-2332 Clean & Green Technologies 196 Corning Dr. Christiansburg, VA 24073 866-694-1628 Maryland Hydroponics 1061 West Broad St. Falls Church, VA 866-324-9376 Lucky Roots 612 North Sheppard St. Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Blue Ridge Hydroponics & Home Brewing Company 5327 D Williamson Rd. Roanoke, VA 24012 540-265-2483 Inside-Out Garden Supply 6517 Backlick Rd. Springfield, VA 22150 703-451-3259 I Love Hydroponics 368 Newtown Rd. #105 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-490-5425 Hydroponics & Growlights 13400 Occoquan Rd. Woodbridge, VA 22191 703-490-0700

West VIRGINIA Panhandle Hydroculture 800 East Moler Ave. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-240-7587 Mountaineer Gardening and Hydroponics 258 Kingwood St. Morgantown, WV 26505 304-290-2460 Almost Heaven Hydroponics 3476 University Ave. Morgantown, WV 26505 304-598-5911

WASHINGTON AJ’s Indoor Gardening 1317 Summit St. Aberdeen, WA 98520 360-533-1170

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Island Horticulture Supply 8608 S March Point Rd. Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-0000 _________________________ Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 6121 172nd St. N.E. #A Arlington, WA 98223 360-474-1900 _________________________

Pro Grow Horticulture Supplies 3411 169th Pl. N.E. Suite C Arlington, WA 98223 360-925-6358 _________________________ Belfair Garden & Lighting 24090 N.E. State Route 3 #F Belfair, WA 98528 360-275-2130 Green Gardens Distributing 12738 Bel-Red Rd. Bellevue, WA 98005 425-454-5731 In Bloom 2119 Lincoln St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-778-1668

Grow Center, The 615 South Fir DeerPark, WA 99006 509-276-GROW Cascadia Garden Supply 188 A St. Eastsound, WA 98245 360-376-6040 _________________________

Indoor Tropics 801 N. Prospect Ellensburg, WA 98926 509-933-4441 _________________________ Healthy Grow Indoor Garden Supplies 10 S.E. Everett Mall Way, Suite B Everett, WA 98208 425-374-2227 Indoor Garden Depot 8630 Evergreen Way, Suite B Everett, WA 98208 425-347-0700 Indoor Garden Depot 1401 S. 324th Street, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-874-1112 Fife Indoor Garden Center 1422 54th Ave. E. Fife, WA 98424 253-922-5352 Good 2 Gro 3507 W. Clearwater Ave. Kennewick, WA 99336 509-737-1313 _________________________

Northern Lights Gardening 4159 Hannegan Rd. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-715-8585 _________________________ Indoor Garden & Lighting 714 South Central Ave. Kent, WA 98032 253-373-9060 _________________________ North West Hydro Supply 5659 Guide Meridian St. Bellingham, WA 98226 360-778-3254 _________________________ Liquid Sunshine Hydroponics 5087 Lincoln Rd. Blaine, WA 98230 Kitsap Garden & Lighting 2130 6th St. Bremerton, WA 98312 360-377-1277 M & R Lighting Unit C 22914 Hwy 410 Buckley, WA 98390 360-707-5999 ________________________

Island Horticulture Supply 1500 Port Dr. Burlington, WA 98233 360-707-5999 _________________________

Indoor Tropics 5930 Sunburst Lane #B Cashmere, WA 98815 509-470-7782 _________________________

Indoor Gardening 111 W. Main Centralia, WA 98531 360-807-4259 _________________________

Kent Garden Supplies Ltd. 18817 East Valley Hwy. Kent, WA 98032 425-251-9299 Grogro Hydro 12403 N.E. 124th St. Kirkland, WA 98034 888-7-GROGRO; 425-820-6200 Hefty Harvest Garden & Hydroponic Supply 2825 Marvin Rd. N.E., Suite M Lacey, WA 98516 360-628-8964 _________________________

Go-N-Green Hydroponics 1241 State Ave., Suite #102 Marysville, WA 98270 360-386-8230 Green Acres Indoor Garden & Lighting 514 State Ave, Suite #102 Marysville, WA 98270 360-658-GROW (4769) Island Hydroponic & Supplies 1515 5th St. #B Marysville, WA 98271 425-299-5855 Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 1204 East Wheeler Rd. Moses Lake, WA 98837 509-766-5856 M & R Lighting 17238 Memorial Dr. Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-848-1080 Northern Lights Gardening 1524 Riverside Dr, #2 Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-982-2217 ________________________

Indoor Garden & Lighting 8606 Preston Fall City Rd. S.E. Preston, WA 98050 425-222-9661 ________________________ Linda’s Gardening & Hydroponics 11522 Canyon Rd. E. Puyallup, WA 98373 253-531-9641

Indoor Gardening 1158 Commerce Longview, WA 98632 360-353-3851 ________________________

Indoor Garden & Lighting 20505 Highway 99 Lynnwood, WA 98036 425-673-2755 _________________________

509 Grow 2718 N. Division Spokane, WA 99207 509-327-GROW(4769)

Renton Indoor Garden Center 329 Wells Ave. S. Renton, WA 98057 425-917-9000 Eco Enterprises 1240 N.E. 175th St. #B Shoreline, WA 98155 800-426-6937 ________________________

Aqua Serene 3839 Stone Way N. Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-GROW (4769) ________________________

Hydro-Tech 2121 Aurora Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-2202 ________________________

Indoor Garden Supply LLC 1250 Atlantic Ave. Woodland, WA 98674 360-841-8055 Artificial Sun Hydroponics 3506 Summitview Ave. Yakima, WA 98902 509-823-4026

WISCONSIN

Grow Center, The 2808 W. Sprague Spokane, WA 99202 509-456-GROW

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River City Hydroponics 1514 East Francis Ave. Spokane, WA 99208 509-464-0246

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 1104 West Wisconsin Ave. Appleton, WI 54914 920-574-3258 _________________________

Rootz Indoor Garden Supply 923 E. Hoffman Spokane, WA 99207 509-443-5999 _______________________

Spokane Organic & Hydroponic Supply 4823 East Sprague Avenue E. Spokane Valley, WA 99212 509-534-4055 ________________________ Spokane Organic & Hydroponic Supply 8701 North Division, Suite D Spokane Valley, WA 509-468-4800 ________________________

Grow BIG Hydroponics 954 S. Westland Appleton, WI 54914 920-749-4769 H2oGrow 1150 Madison Rd. Beloit, WI 53511 608-289-1852 Brew and Grow 285 N. Janacek Rd. Brookfield, WI 53045 262-789-0555 Sustainable Growth LLC 218 N. Dewey St. Eau Claire, WI 54703 715-901-0511 Spread Eagle Garden Center 4413 N. Lake Rd. South Florence, WI 54121 715-696-3910

Purple Spring Horticulture Supply 711 Nesses Corner Rd. Pt.Hadlock, WA 98339-9411 360-344-2500

Grogro Hydro 12316 32nd AVE N.E. #103 Seattle, WA 98125 KP Indoor Garden Store 8912 Key Peninsula Hwy. N. Lakebay, WA 98349 253-884-SURE (7873) ________________________

Northwest Horticulture Supply 161 Hooker Rd. #1 Sequim, WA 98057 360-582-0702 SnoGro Indoor Gardening Supply 502 Maple Ave. Snohomish, WA 98290 360-863-6935

Waterworks Hydroponics 5039 S. Washington Tacoma, WA 98409 • 253-301-4343 waterworkshydro@hotmail.com ________________________ Garden City Hydroponics 14103 Pacific Ave. S. Tacoma, WA 98444 253-301-3985 _______________________

Garden Supply Guys 752 Memorial Dr., Suite A Green Bay, WI 54303 920-857-9493 Hydro Your Own 8501-75th St. Unit C Kenosha, WI 53142 262 697 6112 Brew and Grow 3317 Agriculture Dr. Madison, WI 53716 608-226-8910 _________________________

Indoor Garden & Lighting 3839 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA 98406 253-761-7478 ________________________ Solar Shop 306 West 4th St. Tonasket, WA 98855 509-486-4508 Indoor Garden Depot 6400 N.E. Highway 99, Suite H Vancouver, WA 98665 360-993-7779 ________________________

Seattle’s Hydro Spot 917 N.W. 49th St. Seattle, WA 98107 206-784-2161 _________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 4525 N.W. Fruit Valley Rd. Vancouver, WA 98660 888-478-6544 (Northwest) _ ________________________

Sodo Hydro 1727 1st Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98134 206-682-9377; 888-90-HYDRO (904-760) _____________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 5408 N.E. 88th St. Building A Vancouver, WA 98665 888-478-6544 _________________________

Paradigm Gardens 4501 Helgesen Dr. Madison, WI 53718 608-241-3800 _________________________ Brew and Grow 2246 Bluemound Rd., Suite B Waukesha, WI 53186 262-717-0666

PUERTO RICO

_________________________

Tecno-Hydro Ave Campo Rico GJ17, PO Box 1450 Carolina, PR 00982 787-752-8252 _________________

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DO YOU KNOW?

2. 3.

Seedlings that are too tall will have problems when they are moved outdoors because they can’t stand up as well to natural occurrences like wind and hard rain.

Water and solutes (nutrients) travel in one direction up a plant’s xylem via the transpirational stream. In other words, evaporation of water from the leaves creates a force not unlike a person sucking on a straw that draws these solutes up. This is in stark contrast to the phloem, which carries sugar and other photosynthates from the leaf source to the root sink.

Avoid drying seeds in the sun or in the oven. Instead, place them on a baking sheet and dry with a fan gently blowing on them.

Light intensity and duration, combined with air temperature and the moisture and nutritional status of the plant, are correlated factors that will determine the extent of the benefits of adding CO2 to a growroom. Therefore, simply increasing the CO2 concentration of the air surrounding the plant does not automatically result in a significant increase in plant growth.

7. 8.

For an automated nutrient reservoir system that needs the least maintenance, a grower should use the following connected to the source of water: a water chiller/heater, a nutrient auto-doser, a pH auto adjuster and an auto shut-off valve.

When starting up an aquaponics system before adding fish, add enough ammonia to the fish tank until you get an ammonia reading between 2 and 4 ppm. Half a teaspoon of ammonium chloride (a powder), should give close to 3.4 ppm of ammonia in 100 gal. of water.

Native soils of many regions—and all over North America—are composed of only 3 to 5% organic matter. Growers often strive for numbers more like 6 to 10%.

10.

The more expensive gardening additives, for example a bloom fortifier, often contain more than 20 additional ingredients not listed on the label, such as amino acids, citric acid and ascorbic acid.

Pyrethrin is an active component in chrysanthemum flowers. On its own it is not very effective in killing insects, but it does do a good job of stunning them, making them vulnerable to being killed by other toxins.

Hydroponic tomatoes are never picked green and stored in a cool room to ripen because ripening on the vine produces superior sweetness, juiciness and a richer and more invigorating color.

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Wondering About Wasabi?

There are few places in the world suitable for large-scale wasabi cultivation. The process is perhaps best left to the controlled environment of an indoor garden.

Lighting Labels

There are a lot of grow lights on the market these days, and a lot of different ways to determine what one will work best for you. Labels help a lot, but only if growers know what to look for.

Solar Greenhouses

Creating a solar greenhouse has been no easy feat, but for Charles Winslow it has certainly been rewarding. He is ready to introduce his project to a larger audience.

Chelated Creations

Chelation can happen both naturally and synthetically. To decide which way is the best, first one must understand what a chelate does.

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