May/June 2010 MAXIMUM YIELD CANADA
CANADA May - June 2010
FREE
EX
CLU
PROJECTS & TIPS
15+ Smart Buys for Explosive Growth Power Plan: Nutrient Solutions that SMASH records!
SIV
E
Yields: Big, BIgger, BEST - Secrets Revealed!
Our Growing
Future Performance Enhancing Solutions for outer space and Planet Earth!
maximumyield.com
Indoor gardenING expo montreal
SAN FRancisco
long beach
June 5-6
july 24-25
october 16-17
Quebec, Canada
California, USA
california, usa
indoorgardeningexpo.com
contents May / June 2010
42 Features
54
12 th
26
Shopping for Humic Acids
32
Nutrients: Beyond Macros and Micros
39
Kitchen Composting
42
Next Generation LEDs: Enter the Quad Band
50
Homegrown Goodness with a Garden Greenhouse or Grow Tent
54
Growing Guide: Lucky Bamboo
58
Ventilation Benefits and How-To
Ann iver s Issu ary e
by Donald Lester
by Dr. Lynette Morgan
39
by Erik Biksa
by Therese Cressman
by Jack Van Camp
Departments 6 8 10 12 14 20
From the Editor MaximumYield.com Letters to the Editor Ask Erik MAX Facts Product Spotlight
52 63 66 70 74 74
You Tell Us Check Your Growing IQ
39
Max Mart Distributors Do You Know? Coming up Next Issue
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
5
FROM the editor 12
This, our 12th anniversary issue of Maximum Yield Canada, celebrates the vibrancy and growth of our flourishing industry! New products, new technologies and new consumers researching improved methods for growing healthier plants are the driving force behind this growing industry. From nutrients and humic substances to next generation LEDs, this jam-packed issue will surely delight you. Looking for new products to help your grow? Look no further than the new product section then visit us at the Montréal Indoor Gardening Expo to see these and many more products first hand. Meet with industry professionals and take home tons of knowledge and ideas to implement into your modern garden. Enjoy the read and see you in Montréal at the Indoor Gardening Expo! More information about the expo is available at www.indoorgardenexpo.com Jessica Raymond, Editor editor@maximumyield.com
Correction: In the January/February issue of Talking Shop featuring Coastal Grower Supplies LTD., we ran the wrong phone number. Please contact Matt, Derek or any member of the Coastal Grower team by calling 1-604-599-1778, email growbig@telus.ca or visit www.coastalgrowers.ca
contributors Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.
Donald Lester is the plant products manager at JH Biotech, Inc., a California based agricultural technology company with 27 OMRI certified products. Donald has a master’s degree in agronomy with an emphasis in entomology. He is an agricultural scientist with over 10 years of research experience and 50 scientific publications to his credit.
Become a Maximum Yield contributor and have your articles read by 250,000 readers throughout USA, Canada, UK 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.
agriculture with majors in fertilizer sciences and crop production. Erik has amassed over 18 years of indoor gardening experience and intensive research. Since first appearing in Maximum Yield in 1999, the “Ask Erik” column and numerous articles have reached growers throughout the world.
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 www.suntec.co.nz/ consultants.htm and www.suntec. co.nz/books.htm for more information.
Maximum Yield Now on Your Smartphone! Connect to MaximumYield.com instantly from your Smartphone with our all-new Quick Response (QR) Code, found on the cover of every issue of Industry News and Maximum Yield. Now you can access the best products, the most in-depth articles and information and the latest news, at high speeds. Simply download your choice of QR software to your Smartphone, scan the QR Code and your phone’s browser will automatically launch, redirecting you to www.maximumyield.com. It’s that simple!
6
Jack Van Camp has been working
Erik Biksa holds a diploma in
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
for Homegrown Hydroponics, the manufacturer of the nutrient line DNF, for 18 years. He has years of hands-on hydroponic gardening experience and will answer all of your questions through the Homegrown Hydroponics website at www.hydroponics.com He loves to share his knowledge with eager gardeners both locally and around the world.
on the web
I N D O O R
G A R D E N I N G
VOLUME 13 – NUMBER 1 May/June 2010 Maximum Yield is published bi-monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687
What’s going on? The Maximum Yield 2010 Indoor Gardening Expos have an impressive line-up of the finest shows ever. 2010 kicks off with Montréal, Quebec (Canada) June 5 and 6, followed by the 7th Annual San Francisco Expo July 24 and 25 and the 1st Annual Long Beach, California Expo at the gorgeous Long Beach Convention centre, Oct. 16 and 17. Everyone is welcome to come learn, network and grow. More details and information constantly being updated at www.indoorgardenexpo.com
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 SALES DIRECTOR - Lisa Lambersek EDITOR - Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES 250.729.2677
Latest News Keep up with industry trends by checking our latest news on the web, updated weekly. Affordable rooftop farms and green roofs, organics and hydro innovations will all be featured throughout the month.
Best New Products Jump start your indoor (and outdoor) grow this spring/summer with the newest products from industry leaders. You can find this month’s featured products at your favourite indoor gardening shop, and make sure to tell them you saw them first on maximumyield.com
Win Big! Just one month remains in our photo cover contest “Behind the Lens.” If your photo is chosen, it will be published on the cover of Maximum Yield for the world to see. Entry submissions are unlimited. E-mail editor@maximumyield.com for more details.
The newest offerings in our wildly popular Win Big…Grow Big contest are in. Enter by June 15 to Win Big and Grow Big. Details for these contests and more can be found at http://maximumyield.com/contests.php Tell us what you think at editor@maximumyield.com. We’d love to hear from you.
8
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Linda Jesson - linda@maximumyield.com Lisa Lambersek - lisa@maximumyield.com Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Gaby Morin - gaby@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com Alice Joe - alice@maximumyield.com Wes Cargill - wes@maximumyield.com Daniel Peters - daniel@maximumyield.com ACCOUNTING - Lee Anne Veres leeanne@maximumyield.com
CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Quality Wholesale USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS BWGS East BWGS West General Hydroponics Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply R&M Supply Tradewinds UK DISTRIBUTION Growth Technology Hydrogarden Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Nutriculture UK AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Futchatec Growth Technology Hydraspher
LETTERS to the editor Snail Mail Growing Roots About half a year ago I signed up for a subscription to your magazine, which I thoroughly enjoy. I enjoy Erik Biksa’s question and answer pages, and now have some of my own. However, since I am from another place and time (living dinosaur) I do not own a computer, which means I cannot e-mail my questions. Would you please be so kind and pass on my questions.Your last two issues had a good treatment of organic growing in soil, which is probably most applicable to me. Thank you so much Hans Kögler Snail mail, e-mail or voicemail, we always welcome your questions. If you have a question, problem or comment, send it to editor@maximumyield.com
Aquatic Inspiration I just started reading Maximum Yield and find it very informative and enjoyable. It brings together all the techniques and events that are happening in the industry and in everyone’s indoor gardens. I love the articles and have learned so much from just one issue. I’m not even done reading it yet either! I was reading the article “Aquaponics: Where One Plus One Equals Three” by Dr. Mike A. Nichols and was immediately sucked in, as I’m going to be studying greenhouse production. I am extremely interested in such sustainable and ecological means of food production, with organics being a key theme as well. I love the concept and am amazed at what a little bit of ingenuity and insight can bring about. It is a technology that I am deeply interested in, and I want to learn more as it is an industry that I find myself drawn towards as a career in the near future. Please, send my appreciation to Dr. Nichols. He has definitely inspired me pursue a field of work I love though wasn’t quite sure what path I was taking after my training. Now I am sure of what I want to do thanks to that article. Thank you Kyler Sintich
10
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
On the Road with Maximum Yield I’m going to be travelling for the next few months and I will not have Internet connectivity. I plan on spending a good portion of my time reading the back issues of Maximum Yield, so a small library of hard copies will be travelling with me. Thanks for all your great work. Greg Markham
Talking Shop an Engaging Read I remember reading an article three or four years back on hydroponic shops. The author, Cindy Rea, talked about people’s reluctance to enter their local grow shop “for fear of being overwhelmed by this particular gardening technique.” In fact, I was once one of those reluctant cynics; fortunately I was cursed with a strong desire to bring my love of gardening indoors and “play” through the seasons. In order to bring this desire to fruition, I had to step inside my local grow shop and say hello. And I’m so glad I did. I think it’s great that you are featuring local shops from across the country in the magazine now. As a beginner, I would have been so grateful to see the friendly faces of the local retailers before actually entering their store. I’m excited about “getting to know” more people in this great industry, and especially hearing from retailers in my city and home province. Keep up the great work. Allison Joseph
Maximum Yield reserves the right to edit for brevity. We want to hear from you! Write us at: Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 or Email us at: editor@maximumyield.com
ASK
erik
Do you have a question for Erik? Forward it to editor@maximumyield.com with the words “Ask Erik” in the subject line, and your answer will be printed in an upcoming edition.
Help! What’s MY’s opinion on the LED vs HID debate? Which produces greater yields and by how much? It’s clear that LEDs are more energy efficient, so, please, focus on the end product results. For what plant growth stages are LEDs most effective? Which LED products do you recommend and why? Under which lights are your plants? Thank you! You are asking for a straightforward answer, so I will do my best to give you a clear and concise response. However, please understand that there are a lot factors that need to be examined about your particular situation and the technologies before a “yay” or “nay” can be given. Let’s have a look at two different scenarios: The growing area is in a confined space, such as a closet adjacent to living areas. Moving large amounts of air quickly will pose a problem, for the sake of argument, due to the fact that access to fresh outside air will be difficult. And, there is nowhere to run ducting from an exhaust fan from the growing area to the outdoors or other areas of the dwelling. Even if it were possible to run duct work in this situation, let’s say that it is not desirable to ventilate due to the noise that will be created from moving air through fans rapidly—a common dilemma in urban apartment situations.
1
In this scenario, you could choose a small wattage HID lamp such as a 250 watt ballast and bulb combo. Yes, you will get very bright and intense light in that small area that correlates to big yields and sometimes high quality. However, this will not be the case in this scenario. The heat generated by the lamp will make the growing area very hot and dry. The plants will be stressed and perform poorly, unable to take advantage of the intense lighting levels. Remember that your plants can only grow as well as the least limiting factor allows. In this case, higher than optimal temperatures will determine the best you can do, which is far below optimal.
2
Now to play the devil’s advocate; if in the same scenario running fans and ductwork were not a problem, or if there was easy access to an air-conditioner, the 250 watt HID would give you a better yield. Because environmental factors such temperature and good air quality are met near optimal, the increased light intensity available from the 250 watt HID will allow the garden to produce better than with the 90 watt LED, as discussed above. Keep in mind that you are using more than double the electricity to do it. Although plus or minus 100 watts is really not that big an amount of electrical consumption by most standards, if considering it as a percentage difference, it is. To further muddy the waters, consider that if you replaced the same 250 watt HID with 250 watts of high-output, next generation LED lighting (going watt for watt), you will probably get higher quality and heavier yields with the LEDs because they are so efficient in converting electricity to usable plant light. Using the same amount of electricity, you can get more plant available light with an LED. Results with LEDs vary with the output of the diodes and with the colour combination of diodes. For flowering, results seem to be better with LEDs that have some orange and other spectra incorporated versus standard red and blue only. Keep in mind that high wattage LEDs are considerably more costly to purchase than HIDs, but last at least five times as long. So in the end, the choice is yours. If there is lots of access to fresh air for air exchanges, the ability to run air-conditioning and lots of space, HIDs will give you big yields consistently, just be prepared for the expense. Running more electricity and investing more money
Alternatively, you could choose to use a 90 watt high-output LED grow light that uses one watt or greater diodes in the configuration. These units run extremely cool versus HID counterparts, and use less than half of the electricity. Because the unit runs so cool, and delivers much more exacting light spectrums than the 250 watt HID lamp, plants will not be stressed. Yes, the light levels are not as intense as with the HID, but other growing factors can run optimal such as temperature and CO2 levels. It is easy to increase and maintain higher CO2 levels in LED gardens versus HID gardens. The yield will likely be better than the 250 watt for this situation because while the environment is not as intense, it is closer to optimal than the first scenario due to the fact that excessive temperatures will not be created in the confined area. The plants are also likely to suffer fewer problems such as insects and diseases because they will not be stressed from very hot or dry air.
12
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Continued on page 62
MAX facts
Hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world
The Brite Lite Group Gives Back To express our gratitude and appreciation of all those who contributed to our success in 2009, we at Brite Lite sponsored and served an evening meal to more than 300 of Montréal’s homeless community. The event took place at the beginning of the year at the Old Brewery Mission. We brought along 406 pairs of wool socks that were handed out to each individual as a parting gift. The support of individuals, foundations and companies are truly valued by organizations like the Old Brewery Mission to effectively provide for the needs of the homeless and disadvantaged who turn to them for help day after day. On behalf of all of us at Brite Lite, the committed members of the Mission and the homeless community, we say thanks.
Growing a Green Toronto Growing for Green, a gardening group based in Toronto’s Ward 21, offers educational workshops, garden tours, volunteer gardening opportunities and social networking to local gardeners. In 2009 the group’s members founded Toronto’s first community orchard. Located in Ben Nobleman Park near Eglinton West subway station, it includes nine fruit trees including pears, plums and cherries. The group is working to help apartment-dwelling Torontonians link up with homeowners who have garden space to spare so they can plant vegetable gardens through the Sharing Backyard program. Growing for Green is looking for more members to join their ecoteam. They have ongoing events and volunteering opportunities, which are discussed in further detail on their website.
Front from left: Etienne Couture, Chris Allard, Penny Rose, Kasey Jane Miller, Karla Saltiel, Chantal Orphanos, Shane Boucher, Patti Nolan, Carol Chartrand. Back from left: Dave Hodgson, Jason Stanley, Sylvie Desjardins.
(Source: http://growingforgreen.wordpress.com)
Gardening Apps for your iPhone
Designer Plants Will Use Water More Efficiently
The iPhone Smartphone allows users to personalize their handsets to fit their lifestyle, with applications available ranging from the essential to the exotic. Gardeners have more than 100 applications to choose from, with themes containing landscaping tips to virtual tour videos; there’s even an app that its developers claim will repel mosquitoes. All apps show up as fingertip controlled icons. Gardening apps aim to help with everything from locating supplies to fending off mosquitoes to converting cell phones into flashlights. Some are offered free, but most cost a one-time fee for downloading into your handset. Not every app remains long on virtual shelves or operates with every phone, so growers should check for availability and compatibility before ordering. Some gardening applications include: Pocket Garden (99 cents), Flowers Guide ($1.99), Botanical Interests ($5.99), Landscaper’s Companion ($6.99), Garden Supplies Store Finder (99 cents) and the General Hydroponics Nutrient Calculator (free).
Biologists have identified plant enzymes that may help engineer plants to use water more efficiently. Plants take in the carbon dioxide they need for photosynthesis through microscopic breathing pores in the surface of leaves. But for each molecule of the gas gained, they lose hundreds of water molecules through these same openings. The pores can tighten to save water when CO2 is abundant, and scientists have just identified the protein sensors that control the response. Plants lose 95 per cent of the water they take in to evaporation through their pores, or stoma. Modifying crops to be more responsive to CO2 could help farmers meet demand for food as competition for water increases. Evaporation of water through the pores cools the plant. If future growing conditions are hotter and drier, as they are predicted to be in some parts of the world, then modifications to the CO2 response will need to be carefully calibrated.
(Source: www.motherearthnews.com)
14
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
(Source: www.usnews.com)
MAX facts
Hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world
Germ-Free Vegetables for the Future
Prior Herbicide Use Critical to Herbicide Efficacy
Japanese companies have found a solution to food contamination that takes hydroponics even further by producing fruits and vegetables that are as close to sterile as possible. Vegetables are cultivated in immaculate Japanese factories instead of the fields where they are subject to unpredictable weather, pests and contamination. Everything in these factories is controlled: lighting, temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide and water. The plants are not exposed to the air outside, and because there is no exposure to dirt and insects, there is no need for pesticides. Production runs 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Some factories produce up to three million vegetables a year. The creators of these plant factories think that this could well be the future of food.
Crop and herbicide use history are more critical to herbicide efficacy and environmental safety than the timing and amount of irrigation water used, according to scientists. The behaviour of the herbicide atrazine in conventionally tilled corn grown continuously year after year versus corn grown in three different crop rotations was compared with various levels of tillage and irrigation, including no irrigation, tested. The amount of irrigation used—including a total absence of irrigation—had no impact on the rate of degradation of atrazine by soil microbes in the top foot of soil. The only factors that made a difference were prior herbicide use and the choice of crop sequences, with prior herbicide use the most important factor by far. Earlier studies have shown that previous applications of atrazine can predispose soil to more quickly degrade later applications of the herbicide.
(Source: www.digitaljournal.com)
(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)
Survival of Local Food Systems Rests on Community According to an article on www.grist.org, the key to local food systems’ survival is strong community support. Small farms are becoming trendy, and sustainable agriculture has made its way back into the limelight. According to the article, without a vibrant rural community, the emerging local food system cannot survive. If a farmer has no place close to home to have grains milled, livestock butchered or items sold, a prosperous local community is difficult. Each tiny rural community used to have their own butcher, mill, grocer and farm supply shop, but in recent decades, as industrial and factory farming have taken over, these small entities were pushed out of business. Larger corporate grocers are less likely to purchase local foods because these stores have minimums which most small farmers cannot reach. The same goes for butchers, millers and processors. The article listed five keys to a thriving local food system: 1) support local business, 2) encourage entrepreneurship in your community, 3) engage in community supported initiatives, 4) support local food cooperatives and 5) become a ruralpolitan. (Source: http://planetgreen.discovery.com)
16
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
MAX facts
Hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world
Vineland Studying Consumer Buying Habits Leading researchers at the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre in Ontario are conducting a study on consumer responses to local, sustainable and organic food claims. They hope to determine how price, sensory experience, production practices and region of origin claims affect Ontario consumers decision to buy. The information gained from this study is necessary for the sustainability and expansion of the agri-food sector and the organic and local Ontario market. Ontario agri-food businesses, including growers and retailers, will be better able to deliver products that consumers want, and also tailor their labelling and marketing strategies to the advantage of Ontario producers. (Source: www.greenhousecanada.com)
Exploring Echinacea’s Enigmatic Origins Scientists are helping to sort through the jumbled genetics of echinacea and its potential for treating infections, inflammation and other human ailments. Only a few echinacea species are currently cultivated as botanical remedies. Previous studies have put the number between four and nine species, depending on classification criteria. Forty diverse echinacea populations, found to have a remarkable range of genetic diversity, were selected for DNA analysis. The research team also analyzed the same populations for chemical differences in root metabolites. Researchers were able to identify clear distinctions among all 40 populations. These distinctions accounted for almost 95 per cent of the metabolite variation among the populations. This work suggested that there were nine distinct species, not just four. (Source: www.ars.usda.gov) MY 18
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
PRODUCT spotlight
See it. Want it. Find it at your local indoor gardening store.
Alg-A-Mic from Biobizz
Announcing the New R410A
Alg-A-Mic is an OMRI listed, high-grade organic seaweed concentrate extracted through cold-press. It contains a high content of trace elements and hormones of vegetable origin, naturally occurring amino acids and vitamins that cater to the whole spectrum of a plant’s needs. Alg-A-Mic is a bio-stimulant to be used sparingly. It can be used as a soil drench, an additive for hydroponic nutrients or as a foliar spray for instant vigour in any stage of plant growth. It has gained popularity for its effectiveness among bonsai growers in the USA and Japan. Alg-A-Mic can be taken in by the leaves through sprayers and with water directly applied to the rootzone. Healthy plants grown with Alg-a-Mic are less likely to suffer from deficiency and temperature fluctuations. Available in 500 millilitres, one litre, five litres and 10 litres. Ask for Alg-A-Mic at your favourite hydro shop.
Excel Air Systems is excited to announce the new R410A DoIt-Yourself Air Cooled Air Conditioning System. R410A is an environmentally friendly refrigerant that allows for increased efficiency during system operation, as well as taking advantage of state-of-the-art micro-channel technology used in the Outdoor Condenser, reducing system size and improving overall system efficiency. The new units are available in sizes ranging from one ton (cool up to 3,000 watts of lighting) to five tons (cool up to 15,000 watts of lighting). All systems come as complete packages, and best of all, anyone can install these systems, no mechanic required! Visit your favourite indoor gardening store to learn more.
Humboldt Pruners Gardeners burn through thousands of horticultural shears every year. The high cost of pruners, coupled with their relatively short lifespan has been aggravating the Humboldt Nutrients crew for years. We decided to make a better pair of pruners and to sell them at a reasonable price, two per package. In extensive beta testing throughout the hills of Humboldt County these shears have refused to gunk up or slow down production. The precision ground, high quality stainless steel blades have the strength to survive years of abuse while maintaining a superior cutting edge. Top notch blades, ergonomic grips and a lightweight design allow gardeners to snip more material over a longer period of time. Your hands and your plants will thank you for using Humboldt Pruners. Visit your nearest gardening store to learn more.
Dial-A-Watt with Lumatek’s Dimmable Ballast More than a dimmable ballast, the new Dial-A-Watt from Lumatek allows you to power a multitude of different wattage lamps on the same ballast giving gardeners total control of their light. The fifth generation Lumatek™ ballasts were designed to give gardeners the ability to tailor their light output to their particular needs and to control the amount of electricity they use. Now you can either dim your lamps when needed or use up to three different wattages of lamps on one single ballast. With the Super Lumens feature available on all models you can get up to 10 per cent more light with the flip of switch. Available in 250, 400, 600, Twin 600 and 1,000 watts. Ask for the dial-a-watt at your Canadian hydro retail store.
Bloombastic Box for Beginners Atami makes it very easy for beginners to grow their very best. The Bloombastic Box for Beginners is made for a square metre garden, and includes Terra Leaves (one litre), Terra Max (one litre), Bloombastic (250 millilitres), ATA-zyme (100 millilitres), Root-c (100 millilitres) and a Bloombastic grow scheme. In addition to the Bloombastic Box for Beginners, there are two other boxes in this successful series: the Ata Organics Box and the Atami Box. More information is available at your local indoor gardening store.
20
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Introducing Black Pearl™ from Grotek Grotek is proud to add Black Pearl™ to our product line-up. This organic product is a blended powder that aims to build soil by replenishing nutrients. Black Pearl™ contains nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium to support vegetative growth, larger root systems, vigorous blooming and increased drought tolerance. This product also includes the benefits of a technical grade soluble kelp extract. Kelp has been used for centuries by coastal farmers to enhance soil nutrition. Black Pearl™ is high in organic matter, most of which comes from charcoal based carbon, a long lasting soil builder. This product is designed as both a soil improver and a plant nutrient. Visit an indoor gardening shop to learn more.
House & Garden Roots Excelurator Roots Excelurator is the best and most powerful root stimulator available in today’s market, and our top product in the area of ultra-concentrated nutrients. This powerful root stimulator ensures the explosive growth of plant roots and rids the plant of brown roots. Roots Excelurator is packaged in a light-proof aluminium container with a sealed lid to guarantee the product stays fresh. Roots Excelurator is a must-have for every successful grower. Use Roots Excelurator throughout the entire vegetative growth cycle as well as in the first three weeks of growth at a rate of 1.1 millilitres per 18 litres. Roots Excelurator is now available from indoor gardening shops across Canada.
The Humboldt Mix Introducing the Humboldt Mix from Humboldt Soils, a high performance, all purpose soil able to handle virtually any type of crop, for any type of garden. Humboldt Mix is a dependable backyard recipe that will enhance the flavours and aromas of your favourite plants. Humboldt Mix is blended with hand selected materials and contains only top-of-the-line ingredients that ensure consistent performance. The high porosity of Humboldt Mix keeps the plant’s root system in a perfect air capacity, allowing for faster drainage of water and absorption of nutrients. The efficient flow of water, nutrients and oxygen enables a large healthy root zone, full of beneficial life. The Humboldt Mix is sold in 3.8 cubic foot compressed bales and 2.8 cubic foot loose filled bags. Look for more professional soil blends from Humboldt Soils and bring some Humboldt County Quality to your garden. Visit an indoor gardening store to learn more.
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
21
PRODUCT spotlight
See it. Want it. Find it at your local indoor gardening store.
Lumatek Presents the High-Par Output Lamp
Lumatek is proud to introduce our new line of horticultural specific, High-Par Output Lamps. Designed by the world’s leading HID lamp engineers, these lamps provide exceptional performance on both magnetic and electronic ballasts and are 100 per cent European engineered and manufactured. Lumatek’s High-Par Output Lamps deliver an optimized spectrum and high level of Photosynthetic Active Radiation to promote healthy plant growth. These lamps have strengthened seals and a reinforced arc frame to ensure long lasting performance with stable lumen output. Ask for them today at your Canadian hydro retail store.
Sun System Budget Gro II Ballast The all new exposed ballast design concept on the Sun System Budget Gro II is compact and cool! The ballast is separated from other components offering superior cooling while extending the longevity of capacitor and igniter.
Humboldt Nutrients’ Royal Flush
A high quality crop needs a clean and effective flush to reach its full potential. By flushing your crops, you remove heavy elements and salts from the plant, allowing for more aromatic and flavourful fruits and flowers. Royal Flush from Humboldt Nutrients supercharges the flush process, grabbing-up and binding together undesirable salts and heavy minerals. The Royal Flush then strips these larger particles out of your plant through the plant’s vascular system, leaving behind sugars and strong flavours. It’s as simple as this; imagine that your plant is composed of water, sugars and salts. If you flush out the salts and dry out the water, you’re left with delicious and aromatic sugars, and sugars rule the natural world. Try Humboldt Nutrients’ Royal Flush today and experience the difference between a flush, and a Royal Flush with a clean, sweet finish. Visit your favourite hydro retailer for more information.
Titan Controls® Helios 4™
Features: • exclusive power pointer allows the grower to easily switch from 120 to 240 volts • lamp cord receptacle accepts all Sun System lamp cords • stainless steel handles make hanging easy • soft rubber feet provide quiet running if placed on a hard surface • excellent quality provides years of trouble free operation Visit your hydroponics retailer to learn more.
The Helios 4 runs four 240 volt ballasts for a maximum 4000 watts of HID lighting over your garden. It features a 4.5 metre relay trigger cord set that plugs into a wall timer that can be configured in a variety of timing patterns and accommodate any garden’s requirements. Three screws under the back panel cover make this timer easy to wire into your power system. The lighting controller has a convenient on/off switch that makes lamp replacement easy. The Helios 4 has the quality, features and functionality you’ve been looking for in an HID lighting timer! Visit your local hydro retailer to learn more.
Hydro-Logic Upgrades the Stealth-RO The Stealth-RO100 and Stealth-RO200 have been the industry leading reverse osmosis filters for several years, offering quality and performance to hydroponics and organic soil growers. Hydro-Logic is proud to announce some important upgrades to both systems. First and foremost is the addition of an optional flow restrictor that will bring the already efficient 3:1 ratio down to a 2:1 ratio of drain-toproduct water. Both units come plumbed with the standard restrictor (3:1 ratio), saving an additional 33 per cent of drain water and making these the greenest and most efficient units on the market. 22
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
We have also included a pre-plumbed pressure gauge, allowing users to monitor system performance and diagnose low pressure and low flow problems. Another standard upgrade is the green certified coconut carbon block filter. This is the world’s first eco-friendly carbon filter and a Hydro-Logic exclusive product. Look for the redesigned box with upgraded instructions at your nearest hydroponics shop. Hydro-Logic brings you all these great upgrades at no increase in price. Pure water’s not magic, it’s logic.
PRODUCT spotlight
See it. Want it. Find it at your local indoor gardening store.
Maverick Sun Introduces T5 High Output Fluorescents
Maverick Sun is proud to announce the newest addition to our professional quality lighting products. These T5 High Output fluorescent fixtures, which come in either four or eight lamp versions, were computer designed to give even light over your plants. They are linkable, come with 4.5 metre cord and have a full, five year warranty. We are also introducing a line of D Lux fluorescent lamps that come in two spectrum choices of bloom or vegetation. These high quality lamps offer the best in phosphor technology to give your customer’s plants the light levels and spectrum they require for hearty growth and monster size blooms! Contact your nearest indoor gardening retailer to learn more about this exciting new addition to the Maverick Sun line of products.
Ata Organics Box for Beginners
Atami makes it very easy for a beginner to start his or her organic garden. The Ata Organics Box for Beginners makes a starter successful. This box is made for a one metre squared garden, and one includes Flavour (one litre), Growth-C (one litre), Bloom-C (500 millilitres), Flower-C (500 millilitres), Root-C (250 millilitres) and an Ata Organics Growscheme. In addition to the Ata Organics Box, there are three other starter kits in this successful series: the Bloombastic Box Coco, the Bloombastic Box Terra and the Atami Box. Visit your local hydro shop to learn more.
New and Affordable LightScout™ DLI 100 Metre New for 2010, Spectrum Technologies, Inc. introduces the LightScout DLI 100 Light Metre. Simple to use and affordable, the DLI 100 Metre measures the light “falling” on your plants. The LightScout DLI 100 Metre is the first step in measuring the light intensity levels affecting your crops. Sold in sets of three to compare light level intensities inside or outside your greenhouse. With the push of a button, the DLI 100 Metre records light intensity for a 24 hour period and then calculates the Daily Light Integral (DLI). Real-time intensity levels are shown every four seconds in µmol m-2 s-1 (or footcandles). Spectrum Technologies, Inc. manufactures affordable weather and plant measurement technologies that help growers make better decisions for their crops. Check out the entire Spectrum Technologies product line, including lights, soils and plant health monitoring devices, at your favourite indoor gardening store.
Sun System ProGrip Light Hangers
ProGrip™ Heavy Duty Light and Equipment Hangers allow you to secure items quickly and easily. ProGrip’s patented system pulls tight, locks in place and will never break or slip. Made with special composite material, the ProGrip is heat and cold resistant and will not rust. Maximum weight capacity is 150 pounds each (300 pounds per a pair). ProGrip is excellent for use with heavier equipment like carbon filters or for hanging multiple light fixtures. Equipped with a 2.5 metre braided polypropylene rope. Great for hoisting and securing: • reflectors • carbon filters • light fixtures • ventilation • equipment Visit your local hydro retailer to learn more. MY
Do you want to be included in the product spotlight? Contact the editor at 1-250-279-2677 or email editor@maximumyield.com
24
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
by Donald Lester
Shopping for Humic Acids In the past, humic acids have been referred to as “The Black Gold of Agriculture.” Due to several watered down and inferior grades of the product available on the market today, humic acids are getting a bad name. These inferior grade products give reduced performance, and as a result, reduced grower confidence. This is compounded by the fact that there are several analytical methods available for measuring the content and strength of humic acids. Now manufacturers have a six month grace period to change their labels or
26
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
adjust their products and ingredients to pass the new testing procedure. Regulatory agencies are working to agree on one standardized analytical method used to ensure consistency of product in the marketplace. Once this is accomplished it will be easier to compare apples to apples when it comes to humic acid products. However, strength is not the only consideration when it comes to buying a quality humic acid. In this article I will point out other important characteristics to look for when shopping for humic acid products.
Average Content of Humic and Fulvic Acids Found in Various Source Materials SOURCE
% Humic Acids
% Fulvic Acids
Leonardite
40
85
Black Peat Brown Coal
10 10
40 30
Dung
5
15
Compost
2
5
Soil Sludge
1 1
5 5
Coal
0
1
Humic acids are a source of concentrated organic matter derived from various sources. Plant materials go through several stages of decay: fresh plant material, green manure, compost, peat, brown coal, leonardite and coal. These materials accumulate over time, and with heat and pressure they eventually form bands or layers in the soil each with a different composition of humic acids. Average Content of Humic and Fulvic Acids Found in Various Source Materials Humic acid is an umbrella term for humic substances. There are two main categories of humic acids or humic substances:
OH
CH2OH
COOH
HOOC
HOOC COOH OH
CH2 CH CH3 CH C CH2 COOH O CHOH CH2 COOH CH2 C
Model structure of fulvic acid by Buffle
O
humic acid and fulvic acid. Each group is a mixture of large molecules, much like gasoline is a mixture of varying sized molecules. Therefore, there is no one recognized chemical structure for humic acid or fulvic acid. The main distinction between humic acids and fulvic acids is their pH and solubility in water. There are theoretical models of the average sized molecule in each group, which gives us an idea of the size and complexity of the compounds. Structurally, humic acids are large molecules containing an abundance of oxygen and carboxyl groups. These oxygenated areas on the molecule attract and bind with trace minerals in the soil that would otherwise be unavailable to the plant.
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
27
Shopping for Humic Acids
COOH
HO
HO = O
COOH
HO
R CH
O OH
OH
N
O "Many research studies show that humic substances stimulate the growth of plant tissues and increase the total quantity of nutrients absorbed."
Some refer to this binding of material as a complex (1:1 ratio) and others refer to it as a chelation (two humic acid: one mineral ratio). The large humic acid molecule binds with many mineral ions in the soil to act as a bus to deliver these minerals to the plant root in a useable form. There are different amounts of oxygenation in each humic acid source. Leonardite has the most heavily oxygenated molecules yielding more nutrient binding sites. Humic acid extracted from manure or peat is usually not as effective in absorbing micronutrients as humic acid originating from leonardite.
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
H O
(sugar)
HC = O O
O
CH CH2 CH N
O
O
Model structure of humic acid (Stevenson 1982)
28
(HC-OH)4
COOH
O
O
H
OH
O
O O
NH O R CH C = O (peptide) NH
Humic acids have several properties that are beneficial to plants because they are biostimulants; they chelate or complex many essential minerals necessary for plant growth; they increase the seed germination rate; and they act as a food source for beneficial soil micro-organisms. When it comes to claims, growers often don’t know which to believe. There appears to be confusion and doubt about the biostimulant effects of humic acids. The term biostimulant is ill defined and often thought of as merely a marketing term. However, humic acid substances do act as biostimulants
COOH
COOH
OH "Using sodium hydroxide results in an average of 7.5 per cent sodium salt in the final product, which can be toxic to plants and can lead to salt build-up in the soil."
(substances that stimulate growth) in hydroponics and sand culture, and especially in soils with low organic matter content. Many research studies show that humic substances stimulate the growth of plant tissues and increase the total quantity of nutrients absorbed. There is a large body of experimental evidence for enhanced growth in several crops and in different plant parts (i.e. roots, shoots, seeds), but primarily in shoot growth. One of the more famous humic acid studies is a processor tomato trial conducted by Brownell et al. published in 1987 that demonstrated an average yield increase of 10.5 per
Shopping for Humic Acids High Quality Humic Acid derived from leonardite potassium hydroxide no heavy metals organic certification low usage rates indicate strength fairly priced
cent. The same author conducted cotton trials in the same year and had a yield derived from coal, brown coal, compost, manure or peat increase of 11.2 per cent. Grape trials aluminum hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, other alkalines in large unreplicated tests had increased yields ranging from three per cent to 70 heavy metals - lead, arsenic, mercury per cent with an overall average of 25 not organically certified per cent (Magdoff and Weil 2004). In high usage rates indicate weakness other tests, wheat yields were reported to increase in ranges of 7.3 per cent you get what you pay for to 18 per cent (Xudan 1986). A very good summary and overview of humic acid research is covered in the book “Soil Organic Matter in Sustainable Agriculture” by F. Magdoff and R. Weil published in 2004. Humic acids also build soil structure. Fulvic acids are physically smaller than humic acids. Being smaller in size, the fulvic acids tend to break up heavy clay soils by absorbing the materials that bind soil particles together. The larger humic acids tend to bind soil particles together like glue so they are better at building and creating soil structure in sandy soils. Of all the raw materials mentioned, leonardite is the best source of humic acids. Leonardite is a mineral that forms on top of coal beds. It is not to be confused with the minerals leonhardite or leonhardtite (Jackson, Mehl, and Neuendorf 2005). In its natural mineral form leonardite is insoluble and unavailable to plants. The humic acids have to be released from leonardite using a solvent. The refining process of leonardite involves reacting the mineral with sodium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, potassium hydroxide or other alkaline materials. Using sodium hydroxide results in an average of 7.5 per cent sodium salt in the final product, which can be toxic to plants and can lead to salt build-up in the soil. Aluminum hydroxide releases aluminum into the soil which, under certain pH conditions, ties up or competes with other nutrients to make them unavailable for plants to use. Look for humic acids that have been manufactured using potassium hydroxide as a solvent, because it results in potassium remaining in the final product; potassium is a desirable essential plant food. Potassium is the K in the N-P-K number of fertilizer labels. Finally, look for humic acid products that have organic certification. Organic certification ensures that the humic acid you are buying is not loaded with heavy metals, pathogenic organisms, animal by-products, sewage materials or other fillers and impurities. Low Quality Humic Acid
MY An easily downloadable humic acid reference is available at www.maximumyield.com
30
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
31
Nutrients:
Beyond Macros and Micros by Dr. Lynette Morgan
What’s standing between you and your best grow? If plants could talk they might ask for a more precise feed regime consisting of what we consider “non-essential” elements. These “non-essential” elements may actually have beneficial effects on the growth and development of plant species, which in turn will enhance growth rates, and increase their healthful properties. Let’s take a look at the advantages associated with nutritional supplements for plants and how they can be of benefit to human health.
32
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Tomato plants have been found to respond well to supplements of silica and titanium.
The nutrient solution is the foundation on which hydroponic plant growth is based. Its composition in terms of essential nutrient ions, oxygen, microbial life and other ‘beneficial’ elements determines the health and growth rate of plants in hydroponics. While most growers are familiar with the essential macro and micro elements required for crop growth, plant matter has been found to contain well over 60 elements and soils are typically composed largely of aluminium, silicon and iron. Plant tissue has been found to contain elements as diverse as lead, gold, mercury, arsenic, uranium, sodium and many others, levels of which often reflect those found in the soil. In hydroponics, it has been found that plants will “Plant matter has been absorb and accumulate found to contain well over numerous non-essential 60 elements as diverse as elements from the lead, gold, mercury, arsenic, nutrient solution, uranium and sodium.” however, being nonessential does not necessarily mean that these extra elements are not beneficial to different plant species. Most of the potentially beneficial elements only need to be present in the nutrient solution or rootzone in such minute quantities that some find their way into the plant’s environment through natural means, in water supplies or growing substrates and even as dust in the air. With many of the beneficial elements required at just a fraction of a part per million, there is such a fine line between a safe amount and toxicity, that the best method of incorporating these into a nutrient solution is with use of commercially prepared hydroponic supplements, many of which are organically based. Nutrient concentrates available feature a number of the proven beneficial elements such as silica, selenium, nickel and others as well as a good balance of the essential macro and micronutrients. In the future we can expect to see the range of beneficial elements in commercially prepared nutrients increase as scientists uncover more of the secrets of advanced plant nutrition.
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
33
Nutrients: Beyond Macros and Micros Silica – the missing macro element Silica is much more than a trace element in many plant species. In fact silica is considered to be a beneficial macro element for many crops with a wide range of benefits for hydroponic crop production. Several plants need silica for growth including rice, sugar cane and tomatoes. Silica is transported from the roots and travels up to the shoot in the xylem vessels and is deposited mainly as hydrated silica dioxide or as polysilicic acids. Once silica has been incorporated into plant issue in this form, it can’t be redistributed throughout the plant, so it needs to be in constant supply if the entire plant is to contain a useful amount. The use of soluble forms of silica as an additive in hydroponics is not new; many cucumber and rose growers are aware of the benefits of adding silica to the nutrient solution, whether it is in an organic or non organic form. Silica in cucumbers, for example, reduces the incidence and severity of powdery mildew and other fungi. Silica contributes to the strength and thickness of cell walls, helping to keep leaves in a good position for good light interception and to resist attacks by fungi and insects. Silica also assists with the absorption and translocation of several macro and micronutrients and plays a role in allowing plants to survive and thrive in adverse growing conditions such as high salinity or excess elements in the solution or soil. Silica in solution should, however, not be considered a micro element; levels as high as 140 ppm have been shown to have the most significant results since silica is naturally found in many plant tissues at up to 10 per cent or higher (dry weight). In the past silica has been a difficult element to supply at high rates in hydroponic nutrient solutions. Chemical forms such as potassium metasilicate not only have a very high pH, but tend to form a glassy like substance, which blocks drippers and emitters when the enriched nutrient solution comes into contact with the air.These days more forms of silica are available on the hydroponic market and nutrient products and supplements containing silica as a macro element are readily available and easy to use.
Why incorporate nutrient supplements?
Many studies have demonstrated that certain ‘non essential’ elements have beneficial effects on the growth and development of many plant species. In fact it is likely that additional essential micro elements will be identified in the future, those which are currently only required in extremely low levels and thus difficult to identify and quantify. Secondly, many hydroponic growers are interested in the health giving properties of the fruits and vegetables they produce and there is a growing area of research into supplementing some of the human essential elements into plant material. Although plants need a certain diet of their own essential nutrients, humans require many others such as sodium, iodine, cobalt and selenium, as well as silicon, chromium, tin and vanadium in minute quantities. We obtain these nutrients from our food, and while many are present in animal products, we get certain amounts from eating plants. Many of the crops we eat contain the extra elements we need, although they aren’t essential for
34
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Different plant species often vary in their response to many beneficial nutrients and supplements.
the plant itself. There has been some concern that hydroponic crops, grown with carefully formulated, salt fertilizer-based nutrients don’t contain the full range of extra elements required for a healthy diet. This is not entirely correct as most water sources contain small amounts of a large number of the same minerals found in soils and these do find their way into hydroponic crops in quantities comparable to well grown field crops. However, “Like humans, plants the hydroponic nutrient solution can be boosted need a certain diet of with small amounts of the their own essential same potentially beneficial nutrients.” nutrient elements found in healthy soils and in many cases will then produce more nutritionally complete fruits and vegetables than those grown in many heavily cropped soil systems. By having plants naturally incorporate human beneficial elements such as selenium into their tissue at increased levels, human nutrition can be improved. Some elements such as selenium play a role in health, and in some cases, cancer prevention, but they are incorporated into plant tissue in a much more biologically active form, which is more suited to human intake. Hydroponic garlic grown in seleniumenriched nutrient solution has been shown to have potent anti-cancer properties, which are a consequence of the form of selenium that develops inside plant tissue. The potential
Hydroponic garlic may be one crop where health giving compounds can be intensified with the use of advanced plant nutrition.
for enrichment of human diets with beneficial elements and organic supplements in hydroponic crop production is huge and something that even small growers can take advantage of. Beneficial Micronutrients
Some of the beneficial micronutrient supplements have undergone considerable investigation by scientists while others are only just being looked into. Aluminium, cobalt, sodium, selenium and silica all have known roles in certain plant species. Aluminium has been shown to be beneficial to some plants species, particularly those adapted to acidic soils
Use of beneficial nutrients in crops such as wheatgrass, grown for their health giving properties, may give an extra boost to human nutrition.
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
35
Nutrients: Beyond Macros and Micros
Potato growth has been found to be stimulated by the addition of trace amounts of selenium.
when supplied at low concentration. Tea plants show increased antioxidant properties and increased growth in the presence of aluminium in the rootzone. Cobalt concentrations in plants are typically in the range 0.1 to 10 ppm on a dry weight basis and cobalt is often found in low levels in natural water sources (0.04 ppm). At low levels, cobalt can have a number
of beneficial effects, particularly in leguminous plants such as peas where application of eight ppm cobalt increases growth, nodule number and weight as well as seedpod yield and quality. Cobalt may also play a role in slowing leaf aging and disease resistance in some species. Since cobalt is also essential for human health, addition of this element to nutrient solutions can enhance the nutritional quality of hydroponic food. While selenium enrichment of food crops for human health has been an area of recent study, selenium may also have a beneficial role in plant growth and development. Plant tissue contains less than one ppm of selenium in most species; however, selenium is chemically similar to sulphur, a plant macro element, and appears to be metabolized via the same mechanisms. Trace amounts of selenium have been found to stimulate growth in a variety of plant species including ryegrass, lettuce and potato and to also provide the plants with more resistance to ultraviolet radiation. There is also evidence that boosting selenium levels in hydroponically grown plants can help protect from biotic stress such as fungal diseases. Titanium is another element whose role in plant development and metabolism has been studied for over 90 years. While plant tissue is generally low in titanium content, being 0.1 to 10 ppm on average, titanium is present in soil in relatively high concentrations. Studies have found that the chlorophyll content of hydroponic tomato plants increased when titanium was added. When maize was provided with titanium in solution, the yield increased by 25 to 30 per cent and the concentration of sugars in the grain also rose. Another interesting potential beneficial element is iodine. Iodine has been found to stimulate the synthesis of cellulose and the lignification of the stem tissue that helps the mechanical strengthening of the plant. Iodine has been found to increase the concentration of ascorbic acid in plants and the amount of total free-amino-acids in crops grown in solution culture. Iodine also seems to increase salt tolerance in plants by facilitating a lower chlorine uptake.
Hydroponic nutrient supplements come in a range of forms ready for use in even the smallest systems.
36
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
Other beneficial elements that may play a role in plant growth and development include: silver (Ag), cerium (Ce), chromium (Cr), lanthanum (La), rubidium (Rb), tin (Sn), serium (Sr), vanadium (V) and tungsten (W). It is likely there are other elements whose quantities in plant tissue are so minute it is hard to quantify their role or presence, but these will lead to some exciting discoveries in plant nutrition in years to come. Organic nutrient supplements
While individual beneficial elements can be added to nutrient products in fairly precise quantities via the use of fertilizer salts, they can also be supplemented with organic additives and mineral products. Organic concentrates derived from natural materials such as seaweed, fish waste, compost and vermicast, mineral clay and earth extracts contain a wide spectrum of elements including levels of macronutrients, micronutrients and beneficial trace minerals. Organic supplements may not be as precise as using fertilizer salts of beneficial elements; however, good quality products are likely to contain a wide range of beneficial elements and potentially other growth promoting compounds such as humic/fulvic acids amongst others. Seaweed, for example, contains a wide range of minerals, some of which are known to be beneficial for plant growth and disease resistance. However, many
Leguminous plants such as peas benefit from the addition of cobalt to the nutrient solution.
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
37
Nutrients: Beyond Macros and Micros of boosting beneficial microbe levels in the rootzone and provide a wide range of beneficial elements. Natural mineral, clay or earth extract products have been available for boosting the menu of elements for hydroponic plants for many years; these are a good way of safely incorporating rarer elements into nutrient solutions although they should be considered a slow release form of supplement. MY References P Tlustos et al. “The role of titanium in biomass production and its influence on essential contents in field grown crops.” Plant and Soil Enviro, no. 1 (2005): 50, 19-25. EAH Pilon-Smits et al. “Physiological functions of beneficial elements.” Current Opinion in Plant Biology (2009): 12:267-274. Silica can assist with reducing the incidence and severity of powdery mildew in crops such as cucumbers and roses.
decades ago scientists also found that naturally occurring cytokinins in seaweed could provide a growth stimulator effect. The level of naturally occurring cytokinins and the growth effects are of course largely dependant on the species and source of seaweed and obtaining a stable extract for use in hydroponics. However, extracts of certain species of seaweed have been shown to improve root and shoot growth and improve stress resistance in some crops by increasing the natural production of antioxidants in the plant. Compost and vermicast-based extracts may also have the added advantage
38
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
E Diatloff et al. “Rare earth elements and plant growth II. Responses of corn and mungbean to low concentrations of lanthanum in dilute, continuously flowing nutrient solutions.” Journal of Plant Nutrition (1995): 18(10) 1977-1989. C M Steveni et al. “Effect of seaweed concentrate on hydroponically grown spring barley.” Journal of Applied Phycology no. 4 (1992): 173-180. What macros and micros are your plants missing? Check it out on maximumyield.com
Kitchen Composting If you’re a composter then you know that sometimes it feels like a chore to take your kitchen scraps out to the compost bin. No one wants to run outside every time they eat an apple or chop some onions. Well you don’t have to anymore if you get a compost crock. Compost crocks will blend in on your kitchen countertop. They look more like cookie jars than a container to store your disposables in. Peel a carrot or a cucumber, toss in the peels. Making coffee? Toss in the grinds and the filter too. Are you a fan of watermelon? The rinds can go right in your compost crock where they will wait until you have a free moment to dump them into your outside compost bin. If storing stuff on your counter that you’re used to putting in the trash doesn’t sounds like a great idea to you, don’t worry. Kitchen compost crocks come with replaceable carbon filters. They fit neatly into the lid of the crock and eliminate odours. No one will ever know that it’s filled with your kitchen waste. Compost crocks come in different colours and are even made from different materials. It will be easy to find one that will look good in your kitchen. There are stainless steel models and also ceramic ones. Now just because you have a compost crock doesn’t mean that you can let the contents sit for weeks on end. Be sure to empty your crock at least once a week. Compost crocks are easy to empty and clean.You can use a hose from the garden to give it a quick rinse over your compost bin; or, you can bring it back inside with you and wash it out in the sink. Getting a dishwasher safe compost crock makes it even easier to clean. Stop feeling guilty about throwing away your kitchen scraps. With a compost crock in your kitchen you’re on your way to making the most nutrient-rich, good-for-yourplants-compost that you’ve ever made. And you’ll owe it all to your compost crock. MY
Widely available, compost crocks can be found in a variety of materials and colours. Selection ranges from trendy, stainless steel to traditional ceramic to uber, eco-friendly bamboo.
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
39
by Erik Biksa
next generation LEDs
Enter the Quad Band The last time we discussed LED (light emitting diode) technology for plant growth, we looked at dual band (red/ blue) light spectrums in the 0.5 to one watt diode range. The overall output of the panels ranged from 45 to 90 watts. LED technology for plant growth is being developed at an accelerated rate, and studies show LEDs are a viable technology for providing artificial light energy to fuel the photosynthetic response. However, first generation LEDs had some limitations; the dual band spectrum provided only red and blue light wavelengths. While these bands are where most of the photosynthetic response occurs, additional activity occurs in other spectrums of the visible light bandwidth.
42
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Imagine this: blue and red wavelengths of light are like macronutrients, while other bandwidths are more like micronutrients. Micronutrients are just as important as macronutrients, the difference being they are used in much smaller quantities. It’s about supplying the correct and exact ratios of each. HPS and MH lighting produce huge quantities of spectra output that the plant uses very little of, making them less efficient although effective because they are full spectrum. Furthermore, the exact spectral output of the diodes— measured in nanometres (nm)—has been fine tuned in next generation LED lighting so that the output occurs where the most light energy intensive reactions occur. In order to
“Plants will naturally grow shorter and tighter under blue light so growers can sacrifice some intensity for more light coverage per LED fixture.” provide a complete, although not very intense full spectrum light source, with earlier, first generation LED grow lights, the LEDs were supplemented with full spectrum CFL or T5 fluorescents to meet the needs of photosynthesis on all the necessary wavelengths. The result using first generation LED lighting was a source of light for plant growth that used minimal electricity and delivered the required wavelengths of light to sustain healthy plant growth. Different types of plants also seemed to require different wavelengths of light at different times. The earlier LEDs were capable of producing healthy growth for rooting cuttings, young plants, seedlings and vegetative growth. The growth was exceptionally healthy and “hard” and supported relatively rapid development. The first generation LED units contributed to an exceptionally cool growing environment, which allowed for the use of supplemental CO2 enrichment to be applied very easily and cost effectively, further accelerating growth rates, plant health and yield potential. In our early test model, we
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
43
Next Generation LEDs
Given how little of the LED’s output is in bandwidths that are measured in lumens, this reading suggests that this LED lighting system is incredibly intense (+7000 lumens).
were able to maintain CO2 levels of between 1200 and 2800 ppm in the growing environment by the use of fermentation in a sealed grow tent. Noticeably faster growth rates occurred, and the by-product of the fermentation, beer, was an added bonus. Not only did this set-up require less energy, it was economical and quiet, an important consideration for urban growers. The earlier LEDs delivered good results relative to the amount of electricity they consumed, although HPS and MH High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps seemed to win in terms of yield in the bloom phase, although with a lot more noise, heat and at least triple the electrical consumption when factoring all of the peripheral equipment required to manage the heat levels.
44
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
To be fair, if the earlier dual band lower wattage systems went watt-towatt with HIDs, they were capable of surpassing yields and crop quality in many types of plants. One drawback was that certain types of plants that had a definite “finish” in their lifecycle sometimes took prolonged periods of time to ripen; this was attributed to limitations created by the dual band spectrum, although supplemental full spectrum fluorescent light alongside the LED panels helped improve this issue. Due to their relatively lower intensity, and therefore limited ability to deliver high levels of light energy, it was recommended that those interested in LEDs select auto-flowering plant varieties that mature under longer photoperiods and finish relatively shorter in stature, for example, less than 45 centimetres tall. This way, the plants were able to receive significant light levels from top to bottom, with more consistent quality in all harvested fruits and flowers.
“Powerful deep red wavelengths supplied by far-red LED diodes stimulate lots of flower and fruit development.” So here we are today, with the next generation of LED crop lights available. The future is looking very bright and cool indeed. New developments and refinements from leading LED manufacturers include grow lights that use one-third of the power on lighting alone, run very cool relative to their light output and are capable of competing with 1K (1000 watt) HPS lamps in terms of growth rates, yields and cropping time. The unit featured here produces light in the following ranges: 455-475 nm (blue), 620-630 nm (red), 660 nm (far red) and bright white (full spectrum, 2700K); hence it is a quad-band LED crop light. There was never any question as to whether LEDs were effective for vegetative growth. It now appears that LEDs are ready to give crops everything they needs for high yields and vigorous production in bloom: intense light levels in balanced spectral ratios and excessive heat eliminated. All of this with about half the power consumption in lighting alone, and significantly reduced costs in cooling equipment required and the relatively high level of electricity required operating energy intensive appliances such as ACs, chillers and industrial fans.
Sweet and innocent looking It’s hard to believe but this simple looking LED crop light fixture keeps up with 1000 watt HPS lighting, using about a third of the power.
These units contain more diodes compared to first generation LEDs with higher wattages. The diodes are approximately two watts each, although the power they are driven to is dependent on the individual spectral outputs engineered into each of the different LED chips on the lighting board. These cutting edge LED chips are driven at much higher frequencies. The difference is significant; now the chips can be driven at hundreds of milliamps instead of tens of milliamps. This fuels the process at which electrical current is passed through the chip and energy, called electro luminescence, is released. In laymen’s terms: bigger LED chip + more milliamps = very bright light. While more milliamps are being passed through the individual LED chips, the overall amount of power consumed is still relatively low to the intensity of the light produced, making the next generation of LED crop lighting technologies extremely efficient.
Quad band LED spectral output (327 Watts) When compared against the known photosynthetic response curve, quad band LEDs maximize the areas of highest photosynthetic activity in their output.
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
45
Next Generation LEDs
1A-HPS VS quad band for photosynthesis Looking at this chart, we can see that quad band LEDs appear to be better tailored to the known photosynthetic response curve VS HPS lighting.
HPS lamp spectral output (1000 watts) HPS lamps produce a lot of yellow and orange in their spectrum, falling short in the red and far red wavelengths relative to the overall output.
Now with all of this output, surely there must be a lot more heat? The answer is no. Even at more than 10X the light energy output versus the earlier 45 watt dual band, smaller wattage diode panels, these higher wattage LED systems run incredibly cool relative to their light output; retaining all of the benefits from the first generation of LEDs while delivering a broader and more intense source of light for bigger yields and faster finishes. It is true that in North America, you can expect to pay near three times more for a high-output quad band LED system over a standard or a cost effective digital 1000 watt HPS/MH ballast, bulb, high quality reflector and cords. While that might 46
Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
1000 points of light More diodes means more possibilities in terms of blending different spectrums and creating a more even source of intense light.
stop some people in their tracks, take the time to consider the following. The 1000 watt HPS will draw about three times more power to produce the same light intensities in the bloom 610 to 680 nm range. In fact, the LED will produce a higher quality of “red” light in the bloom phase because the diodes/ chips allow for light wavelengths to be tailored very exactingly. Little can be done to enhance the spectrum of HPS lamps, although the horticultural HPS
“With high-output quad band LEDs available, a growing renaissance is not far off.” lamps are superior to standard lamps. Now if you live somewhere where electricity is expensive, or want to run multiple lamps, the savings actually pays for the difference within a short time frame. The chart on the next page does not factor in the replacement costs of HID lamps (MH and HPS). Consider that every six months to maintain optimal light levels, the bulbs will require replacement. With LEDs they will require no replacement for over 50,000 to100,000 hours. To save you from doing the math that means they will run for at least 10 years before needing replacement using a 12 hour lighting cycle. In my opinion, it will take some time before growers are able to confirm these findings. However, it is clear Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
47
Next Generation LEDs Broadside LED lighting: LEDs work great at any angle, so they can broadside larger plants with intense light or provide side lighting in HID lit gardens.
Specialized LED lighting Although the bloom model LED is suitable for vegetative growth, the more specialized veg model is available, providing more blue light and greater lighting coverage for the vegetative growth cycle.
Some practical ways to increase the plant’s metabolic rates and transpiration of water through the leaves (for both grow and bloom phases):
Increased air circulation (be careful not to keep fans too close to plants) Slightly lowered humidity levels (for example 40-50% RH versus 50-65%) Applications of bio-stimulant plant additives that enhance the plants metabolic rate of activity. These formulations often include full spectrum B-vitamins, co-factors, humates, fulvates and L-amino acids Additions of fulvic acid with base nutrients Faster draining growing mediums; for example with additions of perlite or drainage layers
that tremendous cost savings are offered in terms of lamp replacements and more importantly the cost of electricity. When considering an LED lighting system to replace your HID lamps, be advised that not all LED crop lighting systems perform the same. In fact, there are worlds of difference between the LED lighting systems produced by different manufacturers. With HID and fluorescent lighting technologies, there is a level of standardization due to the widespread use and manufacturing of the technology. With LEDs, the possibilities when factoring in the various wattages, quantities, types and ratios of diodes/chips coupled with the different drivers to light them make the different possibilities with LED lighting systems virtually limitless. This means that the prospective LED growers need to choose their LED lighting system carefully to avoid disappointments. With a lot of LED technologies, the old adage, “you get what you pay for,” certainly rings true, although you can’t choose on higher prices alone to discern which one is going to work best for you.
Kilowatts used (1kW=1000 watts)
Cost per kWh
Hours per light cycle
Cost per day
Cost per 100 days
Cost per 300 days
Cost per 400 days
Cost per 600 days
1 (1000 watt HPS)*
$0.20
12
$2.40
$240.00
$720.00
$960.00
$1,440.00
0.327 (LED)* $0.20 12 $0.78 $78.48 $235.44 $313.92 $470.88 * Each light source covers a light loving garden area of approximately 1.2 by 1.2 metres or 1.2 by 1.5 metres.
48
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Looks can be deceiving When not powered, the individual diodes appear rather tame; however, when powered on, they are blinding.
All lit up Here we can see that different diodes are giving off different light wavelengths; they are installed in exacting patterns and ratios for optimal plant lighting.
Also remember that comparing LEDs with lumens is almost futile, because lumens are typically measured in the 555 nm range (yellow/green light), something that LED lighting systems are specifically engineered to have lower outputs of to increase their efficiency. Plants only use yellow/green light in very small quantities while the majority of the photosynthetic activity is on the blue and red ends of the spectrum. Do some research, check out what kinds of reviews everyday growers are giving the LED system you have in mind. In doing so keep in mind, that LEDs vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer and someone who simply states that LEDs in general terms are either “good” or “bad” hasn’t really told you anything at all. Which LED system they are referring to is most important. MY
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
49
Homegrown Goodness
with a Garden Greenhouse or Grow Tent
temperature (some crops don’t grow outside of specific The concept of indoor gardening has been around since the temperature ranges). Building your own garden greenhouse Roman times. This is because one of the Roman emperors, named Tiberius, liked to eat a cucumber-like fruit everyday. The is a good solution to some of the gardening problems faced fruit was seasonal and was not available the whole year. A garden when trying to grow produce or flowers out of season, like greenhouse made it possible to harvest this fruit for the emperor. light and temperature. New grow tents are an excellent A garden greenhouse is a structure made of glass or plastic that alternative to a garden greenhouse. These slick units work well is used to grow and maintain seasonal plants. They allow sunlight and offer an easy-to-assemble greenhouse environment for you to enter the space and bring in to grow in. the heat and light that are needed Here are some tips that “Grow tents are an excellent alternative to you can use if you want to in growing plants or crops. Two reasons why people build a garden greenhouse and offer an easy- have a garden greenhouse or grow tent: garden greenhouses are (i) to to-assemble greenhouse environment.” Know your alternatives. grow seasonal plants and earn There are different kinds money, and (ii) to grow seasonal of greenhouses that you can choose from according to your plants for personal consumption. One of the factors that you budget and what you need. There are also many different sizes should consider if you want to maintain a garden greenhouse that you can choose from for your growing needs. There are is the variety of the plants that you can grow. Every plant has large garden greenhouses that are mostly used in growing different characteristics. And if you want to have a healthy seasonal crops or flowers to be sold later, and there are miniharvest, then you really have to study the plants that you greenhouses for growing plants for personal use. choose to grow. Make sure that you have all the material needed to construct Growing plants, whether indoors or out, is a product of different environmental factors. These may include the your garden greenhouse, or you can purchase a greenhouse kit or grow tent from any indoor garden supply store. right amount of light, adequate water supply and the right
50
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Decide what you want to grow in your garden greenhouse. Here is how to maintain your indoor plants: • Control the temperature in the space. With a garden greenhouse, make sure you have the right number of air ducts. In the case of grow tents, many are thermally protected reflecting the majority of radiant heat for superior insulation and some also include adjustable fans and ducting attachments making them extremely versatile. • Water your plants adequately. • Root out unnecessary plants and grasses that are growing in your garden greenhouse. They are sucking the nutrients from your plants. • Use sticks or canes on plants that need support. • Maintain the right amount of light. • Clean both the interior and exterior of your garden greenhouse or grow tent regularly. • Examine your plants for any pests as they will need to be taken care of immediately to avoid an unhealthy crop So if you want to enjoy your favorite fruits and vegetables year round, run, don’t walk, to the nearest greenhouse supply or indoor gardening retail store. Find out what greenhouse or grow tent is best for you and get growing your own food and enjoy continuous, fresh harvests all year long! MY
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
51
YOU TELL US...
The entire Greenstar staff in Langley, B.C. consists of a strong group of socially conscious, benevolent people.
Simon Hart, the “Organic Mechanic” at Greenstar, shares his insight on the differences between one, two and three part nutrient solutions and gives us a sneak peek at Greenstar’s “green” and premium line of products.
“Greenstar is part of a growing mosaic of small carbon sinks throughout our country and around the world.” Simon Hart 52
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Maximum Yield (MY): Greenstar caters to the outdoor and indoor gardener, plus the commercial grower. What different products do you have that fulfill the needs of each type of grower?
Simon Hart: Though modifications can provide different results for different clients, all horticulturalists can benefit from the use of organic materials in their prescribed fertilizer regime. We provide retail packaging and commercial sizes in an effort to find the right fit for our diverse client base. Greenstar searches the market for those products that provide the results our clients require, while pushing the boundaries of modern science and innovation to find solutions for the future of gardening. MY: What does the Greenstar premium line of garden products entail?
Simon: If you need it we carry it. Our wholesale line-up provides solutions for all our diverse clients and our logistics means you get it the next day in most parts of Canada. Our focus is on eco options and technology that compliments industry standards. A great example of our focus on green options is our ever expanding Earth Safe™ line of products. MY: There’s been a lot of debate over nutrients, and whether it’s best to use one-part solutions or two and three part solutions. How does the new Grotek product Solo Tek out perform two and three part nutrient solutions?
Simon: There are different reasons for different formulas; a one part formula can provide a solid option for those gardeners using mediums that have the ability to hold nutrients in suspension, known as cation exchange capacity (CEC). Solotek is a suspension design to supply the required nutrients in balanced ratios for soil and soilless growers. Three part formulas are also beneficial, especially when used in a true water system with low CEC, where adjusting the ratio of different parts can have immediate impact on the plants. No matter what type of growing situation you have, Greenstar has the nutrient options to give you successful results.
The Grotek Feed Dial, winner of the 2009 most innovative advertisement award from the P.G.T.A., is easy to use and available in English, French and Spanish.
very seriously. Greenstar also provides staff members with varied experience to our clients to conduct seminars on-site at their retail shops and also works with garden clubs and other organizations within the community to ensure the newest ideas are part of the oldest of hobbies. MY
MY: How does Greenstar (and affiliated brands) contribute to a carbon neutral planet?
Simon: Greenstar is committed to providing solutions for healthier plants and soils by helping everyone from backyard gardeners to commercial berry growers. Through this Greenstar is part of a growing mosaic of small carbon sinks throughout our country and around the world. There is no solution more straightforward than growing more plants to fix carbon, and building better soils, which in turn capture more carbon than the plants themselves. Horticulture is the original green industry. MY: What steps is Greenstar taking to improve communication and education for growers?
Simon: Greenstar is proud to be forward-thinking industry leaders. Our goal is to help our clients gain confidence in their gardening abilities. Whether that means answering questions on our toll free hotline, or providing information sheets and articles on products or concepts, we take this job Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
53
by Therese Cressman, TipNut.com
Growing Guide:
Lucky
How would you like a thriving green plant in that dim and colourless office of yours or how about adding a touch of modernity to your home decor? There’s a popular indoor plant that even the most novice of green thumbs can make flourish, and it’s believed to bring good luck too! I was introduced to lucky bamboo by a family member and although it’s been a very popular houseplant for a few years now, this plant was totally new to me, so of course I had to investigate. Here’s what I’ve learned about growing and caring for this elegant plant.
What is Lucky Bamboo?
Guess what? It’s not bamboo! Lucky bamboo is a member of the lily family (Dracaena sanderiana) and grows in rainforests in parts of Asia. It has become such a popular houseplant that you should have no trouble finding it in local department, grocery and hardware stores, and of course, garden nurseries and indoor garden retail shops. If you want a large, luxurious or shaped arrangement, you can order them through a local florist and even online. Lucky bamboo is a favoured indoor plant because it grows easily and is easily cared for. No need for potting soil, these plants are happy to grow in water or hydroponically. If you have a Water Tip: You can use tap water instead of distilled but it’s important to let the water sit uncovered for at least 24 hours before allowing the stalks to sit in it. This will help remove the chlorine, fluoride and other minerals from the water, which can cause the plant to suffer. Container Tip: Clear glass containers are popular because you can see the stones or marbles and the fresh water. However, direct light encourages algae growth in water. If you choose a
54
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
windowless office, this is one plant you should try. It thrives in both natural and artificial light.
How to Choose a Good Plant
This plant comes in the form of a stalk. When determining which one is healthy and good to purchase, here are a few tips: • • • • •
•
The water and the plant should smell fresh. If there’s a funky odour, don’t buy it. Look for a firm stem and healthy white roots; black or brown spots on the tips are not good. Choose a stalk with leaves that are bright green. You may notice wax on the cut end of the stalk; this is to prevent fungus from getting into the stalk and helps the plant thrive. If you want a plant that’s curly (some believe the luck is stronger), your best bet is to buy it already curled since it’s time consuming to train the plant to grow that way. These plants can get quite expensive the more elaborate the growth so you may opt to grow your own curled lucky bamboo. This can be done, but you’ll need to be patient since it’s very time consuming. Keep in mind that the height of the stalk you buy is as
clear container, be diligent with changing water regularly. If you want to change the water less, choose a solid coloured container. The disadvantage of this is that you won’t be able to see the rocks or monitor the water quality and amount as easily.
Soil Tip: You can grow lucky bamboo in soil, but you need a good draining mixture to help it stay healthy. Use a mix of sand, peat moss and soil (equal ratio) and keep the soil moist rather than sopping wet. Plant the stalk at least five centimetres deep. Make sure to have a few drainage holes in the pot as well as shards of pottery or rocks underneath the soil to ensure good drainage. Prevent root rot by allowing the top centimetre of the soil to dry out between watering.
large as the stalk will get. The shoots that develop off the plant (sides) will grow taller, but not the stalk.
How to Plant Lucky Bamboo • •
• • •
Take the stalk and rinse the stem and roots. Look for any signs of decay and snip those off. Pinch off any yellow leaves. Fill the container you wish to grow the plant in with rocks or marbles (or a mixture of both) at least five centimetres deep. The container can be anything from a tall glass, a dainty vase or a decorative jar. Place the stalk in the container and settle it into the rocks for support. Add room temperature distilled water about 2.5 centimetres deep. Do not place the plant in direct sunlight, direct heat or chill. You can plant several stalks together in one container if you wish.
How to Care for Lucky Bamboo Planted Lucky Bamboo with Stones The plant needs to have fresh, clean water on a regular basis to prevent bacteria growth. Change the water weekly, or bi-weekly. Keep an eye on the water; if it gets murky or cloudy or starts to smell, you know it’s definitely time for a change. When changing the water, inspect the roots of the plant and snip any that are starting to decay. Wash the container and the rocks well. Maintain the same level of water each time you fill
the container; the water line is where the roots will form. Give your lucky bamboo a treat by occasionally misting it with distilled water. This will help the leaves from getting too dry and will simulate its natural habitat. Keep the plant out of direct sunlight, direct heat and cool drafts. You can trim the plant to keep it neat and from getting top heavy, but don’t cut the stalk. When doing any trimming or cutting of the plant, make sure to use sterile scissors. You can wipe them clean with rubbing alcohol and once dry, use to snip. Trim shoot growth to about 2.5 centimetres from the main stalk. You can occasionally feed the plant with a mild fertilizer (every other month or so).
How to Propagate
This plant propagates very easily, simply take a cutting that has at least one leaf node and place in a cup of distilled water. New roots should appear
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
55
Growing Guide: Lucky Bamboo after a few weeks. While waiting, make sure to replace the water frequently to keep it clean. Once the roots have appeared and the cutting looks healthy, place it in the container with the other stalks or plant it on its own using the instructions above. If you want the main plant to grow another shoot where you cut it, spray the cut daily with water. If you want to prevent growth, apply a bit of melted paraffin wax to seal the cut.
Cutting the Stalk
• • • • • • • •
One Stalk: Simple Life Two Stalks: Love; Double Luck Three Stalks: Happiness; Good Luck; Longevity Four Stalks: Death (avoid). The word four sounds nearly the same as the word death in Chinese, that’s why it’s avoided. Five Stalks: Wealth; Health; Creativeness; Excitement Six Stalks: Health; Happiness; Harmony Seven Stalks: Health Eight Stalks: Growth; Wealth; Prosperity; Abundance; Prospering Business Nine Stalks: Good Fortune; Most Lucky Ten Stalks: Perfection; Complete Twenty-one Stalks: Powerful Blessings
In some cases, it may be necessary to cut the top healthy part of the plant from the sick or rotting bit at the bottom of the stalk.You can try rooting the top healthy stalk by the method above. Roots may appear after some time (no guarantee).
• • •
How to Make Lucky Bamboo Curl
Troubleshooting Tips
This plant grows straight up. Getting it to curl is a test of patience and some skill. When you buy a plant with a curl, it’s been trained to do so by expert growers. The plant will naturally grow toward the light, so the trick is to expose the plant to light from one direction only (curling will only happen with new growth). If you’d like to give it a shot, here’s a common method:
•
Curling Lucky Bamboo • Keep the plant in the container you have been growing it in. • Select a box that is large enough to cover the plant and give it some room for growth. • Cut out the bottom and one side of the box. • Place the box over the plant; this will cover the plant in darkness with the exception of the one side you cut out. • Position the opening of the box to face the light. After some time the plant will start growing towards the light (forming a bend). • Once you notice a bend, rotate the box a few centimetres. The plant will adjust and grow with a deeper bend. • Continue until the desired curl has been achieved.
•
It will take about a year to achieve one curl, sometimes longer (that’s why these plants with a curl can be so expensive).
Why is it Considered Lucky?
Lucky bamboo is associated with the practice of Feng Shui and because the plant is so hardy, it symbolizes good health. It’s considered luckiest when received as a gift. A curling plant is also believed to hold great luck.
•
•
• •
Leaves Turning Yellow: Remove leaves immediately before it spreads to the rest of the plant; too much light, move the plant; if you are using tap water, change to distilled; too much fertilizer, stop feeding for awhile. Leaf Edges are Brown: The air is too dry; occasionally mist the plant with distilled water; water is not filtered enough; too much fertilizer, stop feeding for awhile. Stalk Turning Yellow: Too much fertilizer, stop feeding for awhile; remove stalk from container if growing with other stalks and let it grow on it’s own for awhile, return if stalk regains health. This is to prevent affecting the other stalks in case the stalk is dying. Stalks Mushy or Brown: The stalk is rotting, remove from container immediately and change container water if holding other stalks (prevents spreading to other stalks); you can try saving the top of the stalk by cutting it off and rooting. Algae Water: Too much light or fertilizer, move plant and stop feeding for awhile. Plant is Thin and Spindly: Not enough light, move the plant to a brighter location. Careful: This plant needs to be kept out of reach of children and pets—it is toxic when consumed.
Meanings for the Number of Stalks Feng Shui Lucky Bamboo Lucky bamboo grows in single stalks. Some believe that arranging a certain amount of stalks together in a container holds special meaning and levels of luck. I’ve come across many lists, some suggesting different things for each amount but they generally follow this guide: 56
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
MY
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
57
Jack Van Camp
Ventilation Benefits
& How-To
Our planet is dynamic with low pressure and high pressure systems colliding and creating wind. The wind can dry or moisten an environment, which in turn can open or close the stomata on the surface of leaves, slowing plant growth. If the humidity is too low the plant’s growth will slow down. If the humidity is too high bacteria and fungi can flourish. In an indoor grow room fans are an absolute must. Besides lighting they are the most important consideration when setting up your grow room. Fans emulate our planet’s dynamic pressure systems keeping the temperature and humidity at a constant level in the grow room. Carbon dioxide is just as important as any other element presented to a plant. Even if nitrogen, hydrogen and carbon are present and plentiful at the root level, insufficient air flow
58
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
will result in a missing in the plant’s construction material. A fan will keep the plant breathing, metabolizing and growing at an optimum rate. There are many different types of fans on the market today. Options include small computer fans, squirrel cage fans and top-of-the-line vortex fans that will all do different jobs in different situations. In situations with high intensity discharge light (more than 400 watts burning) a small fan under 250 or 300 CFM (cubic feet per minute) will not do the job. In most cases a vortex fan is the best choice, simply because of the volume of air these fans can push. The blades in these fans are configured like jet engines rather than propeller blades. They are manufactured to drag air from the basement to the rooftop in houses and commercial buildings. When purchas-
Ventilation Benefits and How-To ing a fan it is a good idea to put your money toward a good strong fan that is even a little more CFM than what you need, in case you are dragging air a long way or through something like a filter or air-cooled shades.
“Fans emulate our planet’s dynamic pressure systems keeping the temperature and humidity at a constant level in the grow room.” A general rule of thumb is if you have 400 watts of light you should have at least 400 CFM per bulb and if you have 600 to 1000 watts you should have 600 CFM per bulb. Another way to calculate volume of air exchange in a room is mathematically. Knowing the length, width and height of the room, you simply multiply these three numbers to find the proper fan that will exchange your air in one minute. For example, a three by three by 2.5 metre room is 22 cubic metres so your fan must be at least 800 CFM in order to achieve the one minute exchange. Very small areas can use smaller fans, but a small area can get heat build up very quickly and will still need good steady air flow. In cases where heat build up is a problem (even in large rooms) an intake fan pushing the same volume of air as the outtake fan can be installed down low in the opposing wall to help cool the air faster and make the air tumble through the garden. An oscillating fan blowing gently across the leaves in tandem with intake and outtake fans will keep the plants fed well with carbon dioxide and will make the plants stems stronger at the cellular level. If heat or cold is a problem all fans can be hooked up to dimmer switches or heating and cooling thermostats to keep the room at the proper temperature parameters. All fans run on a curve and there is a point at which the fan runs most efficient. Every piece of equipment placed in front or behind the fan has a negative effect on the performance of the fan. Equipment like louver or butterfly dampers will impede the progression of air to a degree. The ducting and specific type of ducting will also affect air flow. Straight, smooth galvanized ducting will let air flow better than plastic ducting with ribs. The ribs create small baffles along its length and static pressure will build up in the duct work. Length of pipe is another important consideration. The shortest and most straightforward span of pipe or ducting should be used for the most efficient air flow. According to heating and cooling duct work contractors, every 45 degree bend adds three metres to the length of duct and a 90 degree bend is something that will start to work against the fan; the air will actually find its way back to the fan and leak out into the room. A fan should always be set up level. Hang the fan straight up and down vertically or perfectly horizontal. If you hang the
60
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
fan off kilter the bearings will rub together unevenly and over time the fan will start to make unbearable sounds and in the worst case, will stop completely. By sealing all connections and air leaks with silicone or metalized ducting tape you will ensure complete air flow with no air escaping back into your room. All these components in front or behind the fan should be taken into consideration when you are envisioning your room. Air flow and air movement are very important in the garden. When you are shopping for a fan you are going to get what you pay for. Purchasing a fan too small or of inferior quality spells trouble. Don’t be afraid to spend the money on a good fan and you won’t spend more money trying two or three time with lesser fans. It’s something like buying a $700 fishing rod and putting a $3 reel on it. Having a good quality, proper sized fan should be one the strongest links in the chain. Getting started: • Decide where you are going to place the fan in your room. High up in a corner is best for expelling hot air. • Get the proper fan size to change the air in your room a couple times a minute. • A 10x10x8 room is 800 cubic feet. An 800 CFM fan is necessary here, at a minimum. • Make sure the fan is level horizontally or vertically. • Make sure the length of your ducting is the most straightforward and the shortest span possible. • Purchase a fan that is more powerful than you need in case you add carbon filters or air cooled shades. • The intake fan should match the outtake fan. • Seal all connections with silicone or metalized duct tape. • Use an oscillating fan for mixing air and creating a gentle breeze across the plants leaves. • Spend the money on a good quality brand name fan once. MY
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
61
ASK
erik
Continued from page 12
in peripheral equipment such as exhaust and intake fans or air-conditioning are necessities when it comes to high yield HID lit gardens. With LEDs you spend more on the lights, and spend less on other items, because you don’t need to exhaust or cool the environment nearly as much, also simplifying CO2 supplementation, which can help boost growth rates and yields. Even if using HIDs for flowering to ensure big harvests, lower wattage LEDs are still great and provide lots of benefits for cuttings, motherplants and vegetative growth to shorter plants, for example, less than 45 centimetres tall. Much is known about the quality of HIDs from various manufacturers, as it has become a rather standardized industry. With LEDs, manufacturers range from the good to the bad to the ugly. Check around to see which types and from which manufacturers are working for growers in real world situations, and on what types of plants. For good quality LEDs be prepared to spend some money. So in short, the answer is, it depends on how you want to garden, and what you are looking to get out of it. Great question; one that will be continued to be debated especially as higher wattage and fuller spectrum LEDs continue to emerge. Cheers, Erik Biksa
62
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
MY
CHECK YOUR growing I.Q.
by Erik Biksa
Q
1. Why is it important to keep the root zone at optimal temperatures during warmer and hot growing conditions? a) To prevent root pathogens from infecting the crop. b) To help in achieving maximum yields. c) To promote healthy aerobic microbial growth. d) all of the above 2. What measures can be taken to help keep the roots at optimal temperatures? a) In re-circulating systems, a cooling soil can be placed in the reservoir, or an inline chiller may be installed. b) Organic based soilless mediums and potting soils can be used in large containers or raised beds. c) Air-conditioning can be incorporated into the growing environment to keep ambient temperatures down. d) For re-circulating systems, the reservoir can be kept outside the grow room or insulated from the growing environment 3.Why is increased aeration a good idea for recirculating systems during warmer and hot periods? 4. Why are smaller profile lamp reflectors more advantageous during warmer growing conditions?
ANSWERS: Mar/Apr 2010 quiz
5. Is variety selection an important factor when dealing with high growing temperatures? a) Yes, some varieties will actually produce better in tougher, hot growing environments. b) No, all the different strains a plant species prefer similar conditions. 6. Why do spidermites become especially problematic in warmer growing conditions? a) Their alcohol consumption increases. b) They are able to reproduce faster; lifecycles are shortened. c) They are more temperamental when sunburned. d) none of the above
A
1) a, b, c 2) a, b 3) d 4) a, b, c 5) plant and microbial derived sources: the molecules are more familiar to the plant due to evolution and environment 6) b answers to this quiz will be printed in the July/August 2010 issue of Maximum Yield. Maximum Yield Canada  |  May / June 2010
63
MAX-MART
66
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
67
MAXIMUMdistributors YIELD ALBERTA Double AA Garden Supplies Ltd. Bay 9 2820 Centre Avenue Calgary, AB T2A 7P5 403-273-9188
Fusion 5 Organic Gardens Inc. PO Box 5821, 120B 1 Street, SW High River, AB T1V 1P3 866-652-2594 Hydro-Lite 12249 Fort Road Edmonton, AB T5B 4H7 780-477-7860 Niloc Wholesale Inc. Box 82008 Yellowbird RPO Edmonton, AB T6J 7E6 780-885-4769 Quick Grow 1-1204 Edmonton Trail Road NE Calgary, AB T2E 3K5 877-426-4769 Smart Grow 2456 - 23 Avenue, NE Calgary, AB T2E 8J4 403-236-9999 Twins Greenhouse 13 - 2235 30th Avenue, NE Calgary, AB T2C 7C7 403-273-2881 BRITISH COLUMBIA A+ Gardening Supplies 1450 Venables Street Vancouver, BC V5L 2G5 604-876-4769 Advanced Garden Supplies 7979 Aspen Road Vernon, BC V1B 3M9 250-545-9545 Advanced Wholesale Superstore 406 - 1952 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6C2 604-945-0174 AJs Pets & Things 3219 - 31st Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 2H2 250-549-3222 A.R.I. Research 120 - 4111 Hastings Street Burnaby, BC V5C 6Y7 604 433 6067 Art Knapp 2855 Wentworth Road Courtenay, BC V9N 6B7 250-334-3024 Aurora Lighting 750 3rd Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3C5 250-564-9888 Backwoods Hydroponic & Garden 10590 Carlson Road Prince George, BC V2K 5E5 250-963-9541 BC Hydroponics 3 - 20092-93A Avenue Langley, BC V1M 3Y4 604-888-5716 Better Than Nature Enderby 1900 George Street Enderby, BC 250-838-5502 Better Than Nature Kelowna 725B Evans Court Kelowna, BC V1X 6G4 250-868-8978
BN Garden Supply 4493 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC V5R 2N3 604-431-2977
Indoor Jungle 2624 Quadra Street Victoria, BC V8T 4E4 250-388-5611
Buckerfields 587 Alberni Highway Parksville, BC V9P 1J9 250-248-3243
Interior Gardener’s Supply 221 - 1 McDermid Road, Box 1257 100 Mile House, BC V0K 2E0 250-395-3399
Canadian Garden Supply 1730 Highway 3 Castlegar, BC V1N 4W1 250-304-2911
Jon’s Plant Factory 3925 East Hastings Burnaby, BC V5C 2H8 604-294-3000
Chilliwack Indoor Garden Centre Ltd. 311 - 44500 South Sumas Road Chilliwack, BC V9R 5M3 604-824-2944
Just-N-Tyme Greenhouse and Hydroponics Supply 1094 McKenzie Avenue Courteney, BC V9N 3C5 250-703-0476
Coastal Growers Supply 103 - 12824 Anvil Way Surrey, BC V3W 8E7 604-599-1778
Kamloops Sunshine Gardens Greenhouse Superstore 5 - 1744 Kelly Douglas Road Kamloops, BC V2C 5S4 877-372-2270
Cowichan Hydroponic Supplies 4 - 2955 Jacob Road Duncan, BC V9L 6W4 250-746-0244 Double AA Garden Supplies Ltd. 2908 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC V5N 4C9 604-876-8837 Duncan Plants & Ponics 6512 Bell McKinnon Road Duncan, BC V9L 6C1 250-746-5591 Excel Air Systems 200 - 20170 Stewart Crescent Maple Ridge, BC V2X 0T4 604-728-0757 Fat Eddie’s Systems 108 - 18760 96th Avenue Surrey, BC 604-888-2419 Garden Effects 200-2288 #5 Road Richmond BC V6X 2T1 604-214-6620 Garden King Supplies 7533 135 Street, Unit 109 Surrey, BC V3W OM8 604-598-1912 Garibaldi Nurseryland & Florist 38917 Progress Way, Squamish Industrial Park Squamish, BC V0N 3G0 604-892-3892 Good Guys Gardening Center 250 McKenzie Avenue, South Williams Lake, BC V2G 1C6 250-392-2069 Green & Clean Energy Co. Ltd. 2875 Cudlip Road Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R 2W0 250-732-7224 Green Earth Garden Supplies Unit 5, 19300, Langley Bypass Langley, BC V3S 6K2 604-532-7106 GreenStar Plant Products Inc. 9430 198 Street Langley, BC V1M 3C8 604-882-7699 Growing Solutions Box 650, 1150 Bowlby Road Errington, BC V0R 1V0 250-248-1101
Better Than Nature Penticton 101 - 78 Industrial Avenue, West Penticton, BC V2A 6M2 250-770-8978
Happy Acres Greens & Backroad Hydroponics Equipment 2058 Cambie-Solsqua Road Sicamous, BC V0E 2V0 250-836-3878
Better Than Nature Vernon 3506 25th Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 1P4 250-260-4466
Hygro Gardening Supplies Inc. 1791 Tamarac Street Campbell River, BC V9W 5Y7 250-286-0424
70
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Kootenay Bubble Refinery PO Box 81 Slocan Park, BC V0G 2E0 250-226-7753 Kootenay Grower’s Supply Nelson 721-G Front Street Nelson, BC V1L 4B8 888-422-8333 Long Lake Nursery Hydroponic Supply 4900 Island Highway, North Nanaimo, BC 250-758-5012 Mr. Fertilizer 9 Burnside Road, West Victoria, BC V9A 1B2 250-381-4644 Mylo’s 3837 Squilax Anglemont Hwy Scotch Creek BC V0E 1M0 250-955-0525 Natural Choice Garden Centre, The 5500 48th Avenue, SE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1X2 250-832-7151 Nico’s Nurseryland 830 - 28th Street, NE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 2S7 250-804-2004 Northern Lights Greenspace 3 - 2706 45th Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 3N4 250-558-4757 Nutty Zone 5 & 6 - 33201 London Avenue Mission, BC V2V 4P9 604-814-2223 Oasis 12 - 1771 Cooper Road Kelowna, BC V1Y 7T1 250-763-4769 Omega Garden Inc. 1695 Peligren Place Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 2S3 250-752-1301; 888 976 6342 Pacific NW Garden Supply 109 - 20110 Lougheed Highway Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P7 Pacific NW Garden Supply 107 Nicol Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 4T1 250-754-5292 Pacific NW Garden Supply 2137 East Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V5L 1V2 604-254-4765 Pacific NW Garden Supply Unit 14- 104 Silica Street Nelson, BC V1L 4M1 250-354-4767
Pacific NW Garden Supply Unit C1 - 1810 Kyle Court Kelowna, BC V1Z 3Z4 250-769-4791
Vancouver Garden Supply 4894 Fraser Street Vancouver, BC V5V 4H5 604-879-8167
Plant Manager Gardening 12 Industrial Drive, Richmond County Industrial Park Lennox Passage, Cape Breton, NS B0E 1V0 902-345-2112
Pacific NW Garden Supply 15374-103A Avenue Surrey V3R 9V8 604-588-4769; 800-443-4769
Warehouse Garden Supplies & Hydroponic 109 - 8173 128 Street Surrey, BC V3W 4G1 604-543-3177
S&L Worx Hydroponics 135 Main Street, Unit 14 Dartmouth, NS B2X 1R6 902-434-GROW (4769)
Pacific NW Garden Supply 1139B Industrial Road 3 Cranbrook, BC V1C 5E3 250-489-4761
West Coast Gardens Equipment and Supplies 113 - 805 Notre Dame Kamloops, BC V2C 5N8 250-851-2992
Steve’s Hydroponic Headquarters 131 Sackville Drive Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2R3 902-865-7764
Pacific Rim Indoor Garden & Lighting 170- 12111 Bridgeport Road Richmond, BC V6V 1J4 604-232-4468 PG2 1798 Nicholson Street Prince George, BC V2N 1V6 250-612-4769; 1-888-817-4769 Planting Plus Greenhouse Supplies and Hardware 22394 Dewdney Truck Road Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3J2 604-466-5949 Progressive Growth 111 - 1790 Island Highway Victoria, BC V9B 1H5 250-391-9519 Progressive Growth 41 - 1925 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1 800-405-4769 Room 2 Grow 901 Laval Crescent Kamloops, BC V2C 5P4 250-372-3663 S.A. Ecoline Products Ltd. 5671 Auto Road, SE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4S1 250-833-4769 Skytek Indoor Solutions 833 4th Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3H5 1-800-975-9835 Solar Greenhouse and Hydroponic Supply 4752 Imperial Street Burnaby, BC V5J 1C2 604-438-7244
MANITOBA All Grow Distributors 410 Madison Street Winnipeg, MB R3J 1J1 204-231-1694 Better Than Nature Winnipeg 2B - 2 Donald Street Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K5 204-453-3032 Gro Pro International Hydroponics 101-904 Porthee Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3G 0P4 204-956-1389 Kleen Gro Hydroponics 224 Osborne Street South Winnipeg, MB R3L 1Z3 204-475-7096 My Two Sons 2 - 2055 McPhillips Street Winnipeg, MB R2Y 3C6 204-339-3489 Nature’s Nutrition 1819 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3J 0G4 204-889-2979 Northern Lights Hydroponics 129 Regent Avenue East Winnipeg, MB R2C 0C2 204-415-5106 Ready Set Grow! 375 Henderson Highway Winnipeg, MB R3C 2H2 204-668-GROW
Spruce Capital Feeds 1694 Quinn Street Prince George, BC V2N 1X3 250-564-6010
NEW BRUNSWICK Atlantic Hydroponics & Greenhouses Inc. 42 Brandon Street Moncton, NB E1C 7E8 506-858-0158
Sun Beam Central 3444 River Road Chemainus, BC V0R 1K4 250-246-1379
Craft N’ Grow 60 Micmac Road Eel Ground, NB E1V 4B1 506-624-9317
Sundogz Garden Supply & Hydroponics 30 - 1365 Old Alberni Highway Parksville, BC V9P 2B8 250-954-2046
Jardins Notik Gardens 798 Gray Road St-Charles NB E4W 4N9 506-876-9100
Sunwest Garden Supply 2035 Unit B Louie Drive Westbank, BC V4T 1Y2 250-768-1636 Trees Company Nursery & Garden Supplies G9 C17 RR1, 7030 Powell Road Winlaw, BC V0G 2J0 250-226-7334 Tridon Hydroponics 12 - 1708 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC V9S 1G9 250-755-1900
Scott’s Nursery Ltd. 2192 Route 102 Highway Lincoln, NB E3B 8N1 506-458-9208 21st Century Gardening 20 Bayside Drive St. John, NB E2J 1A2 506-657-9982 Ultimate Hydroponics PO Box 1191 Hampton, NB E5N 8H2 506-639-5948
Triple Tree Nursery 20503 Lougheed Highway Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P9 604-465-9313
NOVA SCOTIA Den Haan’s Garden World 12688 Highway 1, Brickton Annapolis County, NS B0S 1M0 902-825-4722
Valley Indoor Geenhouse Supplies 103 - 44195 Yale Road West Chilliwack, BC V2R 4H2 877-702-1169
Greenfield Grow & Brew 69 Wilson Mountain Road Murray Siding, NS B6L 4N7 902-897-6568
Sweetleaf Smoke Shop and Hydroponics 3132 Isleville Street Halifax, NS B3K 3Y2 902-454-6646 Woodland Farm Nursery 3544 Highway 1, Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0 902-532-7617 Woodin Nickel Hydroponics 3393 Central West, Highway 4 Pictou County, NS BOK 1H0 902-695-7640 ONTARIO Agrogreen Canada Inc. 1938 Hwy #20, RR#1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 866-650-1136 AKA The Indoor Gardener 207 Exeter Road, Unit D London, ON N6L 1A4 519-652-4224 AKA The Indoor Gardener 3014 Highway 29 Brockville, ON K6V 5T4 613-342-2700 All Grow Hydroponic 391 Marwood Drive, Unit 14 Oshawa, ON 866-606-4723 All Seasons 1000 Dundas Street East Mississauga, ON L4Y 2B8 905-848-2619 Best of Hydroponics 360 Richmond Street London, ON N6A 3C3 519-858-1533 Bluewater Hydroponics 1173 Michener Road, Unit 12 Sarnia, ON N7S 5G5 519-337-7475 BMA Hydroponics 404A Maitland Drive, Unit 2 Belleville, ON K8N 4Z5 613-967-9888 Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 4373 Steeles Avenue West North York, ON M3N 1V7 416-663-2999 Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 1677 Cyrville Road, Meadowbrooke Plaza Gloucester, ON K1B 3L7 613-842-8999 Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 1659 Victoria Street, North, Unit 6 Kitchener, ON N2B 3E6 888-670-0611 Canadian Hydrogardens Ltd. 1330 Sandhill Drive Ancaster, ON L9G 4V5 905 648 1801 D&M Gardens 2961 Main Street Blezard Valley, ON P0M 1E0 705-897-3727 Diatomite Canada 1938 Hwy #20, RR#1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 866-650-1136
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
71
MAXIMUMdistributors YIELD Envirotex P.O. Box 21069 Paris, ON N3L 4A5 519-442-1237
J & C Hydroponics 343 Elgin Street, Unit A Cambridge, ON M1R 7H9 519-622-9969
Garden Depot 605 Justus Drive Kingston,ON Canada K7M 4H5 613-384-8882
Jungle Hydroponics 2215 Gerrard Street East Toronto, ON M4E 2C8 416-699-0861
Green And Clean 761 Barrydowne Road Sudbury, ON P3A 3T6 800-246-5503 Green Kingdom Hemp 1103 Cassells Street North Bay, ON P1B 4B3 705-494-7169 Green Thumb Hydroponics 3075 Ridgeway Drive, 25 Mississauga, ON L5L 5M6 Grow It All Hydroponics Inc. 165 Geary Avenue, Unit 3B Toronto, ON M6H 2B8 416-588-9595 Grower’s Choice Hydroponics 1621 McEwen Drive 14 Whitby, ON L1N 9A5 905-725-GROW Happy Hydroponics 68 Princess Street Hamilton, ON L8L 3K9 905-545-8434 Home Hydroponics 289 Rutherford Road, South 22 Brampton, ON L6W 3R9 905-874-GROW Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 26 Meteor Drive Toronto, ON M9W 1A4 416-242-4769 Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 521 Dunlop Street West Barrie, ON L4N 9W4 705-721-8715 Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 5386 Greenlane Road Beamsville, ON L0R 1B3 905-563-6121 Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 79 Woolwich Street South Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 519-648-2374 Hydro Culture Emporium Inc. 150 Robertson Rd Unit 22 Nepean, ON K2H 9S1 613-715-9472 Hydrogarden 1122 Paul Street Cornwall, ON K6H 6H5 613-360-6996 Hydrotech 2436 Kingston Road Toronto, ON M1N 1V2 416-267-4769 In-Home Gardens 279 Caborne St. Brantford, ON N3T 2H3 519-754-9090 Indoor Gardens Canada 2952 Thompson Road Smithville, ON L0R 2A0 905-957-6969 Indoor Harvest 3040 New Street Burlington, ON L7R 1M5 289-337-9169
72
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
Markham Hydroponics 95 Royal Crest Court 18 Markham, ON L3R 9X5 905-305-0698 Nature’s Elements Box 119 500 Mill Street Neustadt, ON N0G 2M0 519-799-5323 Northern Hydroponics 236 Simpson Street Thunder Bay, ON P7C 3H4 807-623-3666 Northern Lights Green Supply 1938 Highway 20 (at 406), RR 1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 905-892-3743 Northern Lights Hydroponics 1185 Tecumsch Road Windsor, ON N8W 1B5 519-254-4015 Ontario Growers Supply 1540 Fanshawe Park Road West London, ON N6H 5L8 519-641-3992 Ontario Hydroponics 103015 Grey Road 18 Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6 519-372-1144 Ozone Environmental Technologies 361 Rowntree Dairy Road Unit 4 Woodridge, ON L4L 8H1 905-264-6618 Paradise Gardens Hydroponics 2158 Chiefswood Road Oshweken, ON N0A 1M0 519-445-2275 Peterborough Hydroponic Center 347 Pido Road, Unit 32 Peterborough, ON K9J 6X7 705-745-6868 Planetary Pride 372 Queen Street East Sault Ste Marie, ON P6A 1Y7 1-888-215-8970 Pro Grow Indoor Garden Supplies 1710 Bishop St. Unit 2 Cambridge, ON N1T 1T2 519-624-7692 Second Nature Hydroponics 4 - 2133 Royal Windsor Drive S e c o n d Mississauga, ON L5J 1K5 NATURE HYDROPONICS 905-403-4769 Supply For You 3615 Weston Road, Unit 6 North York, ON M9L 1V8 416-741-8062
QUEBEC Amazonia Hydroponique 394 Boulvard Arthur-sauve St. Eustache, QC J7R 2J5 450-623-2790 B&S Electrique Inc. 2240 Pitt Street Montreal, QC H4E 4H1 514-931-3817 Benoit Dupuis Extincteurs Inc. 2503 Victoria Street Ste-Julienne, QC J0K 2T0 450-831-4240 Biofloral 675 Montee, St. Francois Laval, QC H7C 2S8 877-38-HYDRO Boutique Grunge 364 rue Sherbrooke Magog, QC J1X 2S1 819-847-4141 Boutique Echologik 829, cote d’Abraham Quebec, QC G1R 1A4 418-648-8288 Boutique Echologik 790 St - Jean Quebec, QC G1R 1P9 418-648-2828 Brite Lite Hydroponics 940 Bergar, Laval, QC H7L 4Z8 450-669-3803 Centre Jardin Denis Brodeur 15 Nord C.P. 658 Waterloo, QC J0E 2N0 Chanvre du Nord Inc. 38 DeMartigny est St-Jérome, QC J7Z 1V4 866-565-5305 Comptoir Richelieu Inc. 350, du Collège Sorel-Tracy, QC J3P 6T7 800-363-9466 Culture Uni Vert 36 rue de Martigny E Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 1V4 www.cultureunivert.com Distribution De la Plante 5498 Hochelaga Suite 910 Montreal, QC H1N 3L7 514-255-1111 échologik 798 St Jean Québec, QC G1R 1P9 418-648-2828; 418-648-8288 Espace Culture Boutique 17 boul. Ste-Rose Est Laval, QC H7V 3K3 450-622-2710 Ferme Florale Inc. (Botanix) 2190 Blvd. Laurier (route 116) St. Bruno de Montarville, QC J3V 4P6 450-653-6383
Sweet Hydroponic Gardens 776 Bruce Street Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z8 613-433-9600
Fernand Corbeil Produits Horticoles - Horticultural Products 17 boul. Ste-Rose Est Laval, QC H7L 3K3 450-622-2710
Toronto Hemp Company 665 Yonge Street Toronto ON M4Y 1Z9 416-920-1980
Fleuriste Savard Inc. 1833 boul. Louis-Frechette Nicolet, QC J3T 1M4 819-293-5933
Vantage Hydroponics 1 Adelaide Street North London, ON N6B 3P8 519-451-4769
Fred Lamontagne Inc. 356 Chemin du Sommet Est, Rimouski, QC G5L 7B5 418-723-5746
Yield of Dreams Hydroponics 559 Steven Court 12 Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z3 877-778-7960
Gerard Bourbeau & Fils Inc. 8285, 1 re Avenue Charlesbourg, QC G1G 5E6 418-623-5401
Horticulture Piégo 228 Pierre Bertrand Sud Vanier, QC G1M 2C4 418-527-2006 Hydroculture Guy Dionne 8473 - 19th Avenue Montreal, QC H1Z 4J2 514-722-9496 Hydroculture Guy Dionne 1990 Cyrill-Duquet Local 150 Québec, QC G1N 4K8 418-681-4643 Hydro Expert 12752 Industriel Montreal, QC H1A 3V2 514-624-3091 Hydro Plus 149 avenue Principale A Rouyn Noranda, QC J9X 4E3 819-762-4367 Hydro Rive-sud 4721 Boulvard de la rive sud Levis, QC G6W 1H5 418-835-0082 Hydro Sciences 4800 de la Cote-Vertu Blvd. Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1J9 514-331-9090 Hydro Times 1533 Boulevard Cure Labelle Laval, QC H7V 2W4 450-688-4848 Hydro-Tonyque 761 Avenue Gilles Villeneuve Berthierville, QC J0K 1AO 450-836-8088 Hydrobec 2145 Lavoisier Suite 4 Ste-Foy, QC G1N 4B2 418-687-1119 Hydromax Gatineau 3-1695 Atmec (porte 6) Gatineau, QC J8P 7G7 819-663-7470 Hydromax Laval 295 Boulevard Curé Labelle Laval, QC H7L 2Z9 450-628-8380 Hydromax Mont-Laurier 388 Rue Hebert Mont-Laurier, QC J9L 2X2 888-609-4476 Hydromax Montreal 9300 Lajeunesse Montreal, QC H2M 1S4 514-381-0111 Hydromax St-Henri 3522 Notre-Dame Montréal, QC H4C 1P4 514-481-3939 Hydromax Terrebonne 1674 Chemin Gascon Terrebonne, QC J6X 4H9 450-492-7447 Hydromax Trois-Rivières 6157 rue Corbeil Trois-Rivières Ouest, QC G8Z 4P8 819-372-0500 Hydromax Val-David 895 route 117 nord Val-David QC J0T 2N0 888-320-0129 Hydroponique 2000 84 Boul. Curé Labelle Ste-Therese, QC J7E 2X5 450-971-0726 Hydroponique Plus Inc. 405 - 18 Avenue Lachine, QC H8S 3R1 514-634-3677 Hydrosphere 2000 2400 rue Canadian, Suite 104 Drummondville, QC J2C 7W3 819-478-9791
Hydrotek 12300 Rue de l’avenir St. Janvier, QC J7J 2K4 nternational Hydroponique 5478 Hochelaga St Montreal, QC H1N 3L7 514-255-2525 Jardinages Gilles Robert Inc. 574 St-Hubert Granby, QC J0H 1Y5 450-375-3441 Les Grands Jardins Lavel 2900, Boul. Cure-Lavelle Chomedey, Laval, QC H7P 5S8 250-729-2687 Les Entreprises Fernand Pigeon Inc. 174 Beaudoin Nord Durham-Sud, QC J0H 2C0 819-858-2777 Les Serres Binette Inc 2568 Boul. Mercurre Drummondville, QC J2A 1H2 819-478-7195 MegaWatt Hydroculture 636 Route 364 Morin Heights, QC J0R 1H0 450-226-2515 Méristème Hydroponique 871 Dufferin Granby, QC J2G 9H8 450-991-1514 Momentum 11289 London Avenue Montreal, QC H1H 4J3 888-327-4595
Qué-Pousse - Mont. Tremblant 462 Montée Kavanagh Mont-Tremblant, QC J8E 2P2 819-429-6145 Qué-Pousse - Point-Claire 1860D Sources Blvd Pointe-Claire, QC H9R 5B1 514-426-5057 Qué-Pousse - Sherbrooke 4394 Bourque Rt. 112 Rock Forest, QC J1N 1S3 819-563-0353 Qué-Pousse - St-Constant 6264 Route 132 Ste-Catherine, QC J0L 1E0 450-635-4881 Qué-Pousse - St-Jerome 709A 14e Avenue, Sud Saint-Antoine, QC J7Z 4B8 450-436-3803 Rap Hydroponique 326 Rue Vachon Trois-Rivières QC G8T 8Y2 819-376-5959 Rap Hydroponique 5700, rue Martineau Local 7 Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 8B1 450-768-5188 Sherbrooke Hydroponique 3545 King Est, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 5J4 819-829-9299
Naturexpert Inc. 828 Chemin du Sixième Rang Gatineau QC J8R 3A4
St-Jean Hydroponique 747 rue St-Jacques St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, QC J3B 2M9 450-346-9633
Pablo Jardinage Drummondville 2080 Joseph St-Cyr Drummondville, QC J2C 8V6 819-475-2525
Summum Bio Teck 2100 Ontario Est Montreal, QC H2K 1V5 866-460-2226
Pablo Jardinage Intérieur 2 Des Ormeaux Suite 500 Trois-Rivières, QC G8W 1S6 819-693-6000 Pablo Jardinage Shawinigan 5023 Boulevard Royal Shawinigan QC J9N 6T8 819-731-9766 Pépinière Eco-Verdure 965 Boul. Sauvé St-Eustache, QC J7R 4K3 450-472-6474 Plant-O-Maxx 3169 Blais, Boisbriand, QC, J7H 1H2 514-968-7799 Plant-T-Plantes 3439 boulevard Fiset Sorel-Tracy, QC J3P 5J3 450-780-0008 Point De Vue 880 chemin St-Féréol Les Cèdres, QC J7T 1N3 450-452-2878 / 1-877-510-2991 Pousse Magique 515 rue Lanaudiere Repentigny, QC J6A 7N1 450-582-6662 P.P.M. Hydroponique 504 Rue du Parc St. Eustache, QC J7R 5B2 450-491-2444 Qué-Pousse - Laval 940 Bergar Laval, QC H7L 4Z8 450-667-3809 Qué-Pousse - Montreal 2215 Walkley Montreal, QC H4B 2J9 514-489-3803
Un Monde Sans Terre 565 Beausejour Alma, QC G8B 5V3 418-480-3274 Univert 4 Saisons 2100 Ontario Est Montréal, QC H2K 1V5 514-527-2226 Val d’Or Hydroculture 1261 3e Avenue Val d’Or, QC J9P 1V4 Vinexpert De L’Est 6384 Beaubien est Montreal, QC H1M 3G8 514-354-8020 XXXtractor Inc. 1228 St. Marc Montreal, QC H3H 2E5 514-931-4944 www.xxxtractor.com SASKATCHEWAN B&B Hydroponics and Indoor Gardening 1404 Cornwall Street Regina, SK S4R 2H7 306-522-4769 Busy Bee Upholstery Box 811, 134 5th Avenue East Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0 306-648-3659 Waterboy Supply 401 Dewdney Avenue East Regina, SK S4N 4G3 306-757-6242 YUKON, NUNAVUT and NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Porter Creek Indoor Garden Centre 1307 Centennial Street Whitehorse, YT Y1A 3Z1 867-667-2123
Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
MY 73
DO YOU know?
1
Silica in cucumbers reduces the incidence and severity of powdery mildew and other fungi.
The newest generation of LED lights will run for at least 50,000 to 100,000 hours, or the equivalent of 10 years before needing to be replaced.
3
74
4
6
8
Plant materials go through several stages of decay. These plant materials accumulate over time, and with heat and pressure they eventually form bands or layers in the soil each with a different composition of humic acids. Maximum Yield Canada | May / June 2010
100 per cent natural and biodegradable coco peat is a great media alternative. Learn how coco can transform your indoor garden.
Summer strawberry bonanza Tantalize your taste buds with colourful, delicious, nutrient-rich strawberries that can be raised from seeds. Alfagrog Anyone? Propagate difficult plants in your homemade bog garden, featuring porous alfagrog media.
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) produce a higher quality of “red” light in the bloom phase because the diodes/ chips allow for light wavelengths to be tailored.
The blades in vortex fans are configured like jet engines and manufactured to drag air long distances through filters and air-cooled shades.
9
Organic hydroponics with coco
Anise seeds are harvested for medicinal purposes and can be used on their own or pressed for the anise seed oil.
Hydroponic garlic grown in selenium-enriched nutrient solution has been shown to have potent anti-cancer properties.
7
2
There is no recognized chemical structure for humic acid or fulvic acid. The main distinction between the two is their pH properties and solubility in water.
Lucky bamboo is not actually a bamboo. It is a member of the lily family (Dracaena sanderiana).
5
COMING UP IN July - August 2010
Healing plants Add an Aloe Vera plant to your collection and enjoy the healing benefits of this hydro-lover. Plus: Tips and advice for beginners, latest hydro news from Canada and the world and the best new products from leading manufacturers.
www.maximumyield.com Maximum Yield Canada (July/August) will be available July 1 for FREE at selected indoor gardening retail stores across Canada and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available at maximumyield.com/subscriptions.php
May/June 2010 MAXIMUM YIELD CANADA
CANADA May - June 2010
FREE
EX
CLU
PROJECTS & TIPS
15+ Smart Buys for Explosive Growth Power Plan: Nutrient Solutions that SMASH records!
SIV
E
Yields: Big, BIgger, BEST - Secrets Revealed!
Our Growing
Future Performance Enhancing Solutions for outer space and Planet Earth!
maximumyield.com
Indoor gardenING expo montreal
SAN FRancisco
long beach
June 5-6
july 24-25
october 16-17
Quebec, Canada
California, USA
california, usa
indoorgardeningexpo.com