Maximum Yield USA November 2012

USA

FREE

The Battl e

is on!

Conquering Pathogens & Pests, Problems

Are You Prepared?

maximumyield.com

LONG BEACH

CALIFORNIA NOVEMBER 3-4, 2012

NEW sunlight supply FP (Ilona)

NEW humboldt nation distribution FP (ashley)

NEW hydrofarm FP (ilona)

NEW sunlight supply FP (Ilona)

CONTENTS

74

November 2012

FEATURES 50

Aphid 100

50 Pest ID and Control

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

66 Of Molds and Mildews

by Philip McIntosh

74 Exotic Contaminants

by Jennifer Casey

80 How to Keep Your Plants Healthy

by Frank Rauscher

90 Getting to Know Compatibility Agents

by Donald Lester

100 Gardening for Geeks

by Grubbycup

66

DEPARTMENTS 114 Homegrown Groceries

12

From the Editor

146

Growing for Health

14

MaximumYield.com

160

Tips and Tricks

16

Letters to the Editor

180

Talking Shop

22

Ask the Experts

182

Do You Know?

24

MAX Facts

183

36

Product Spotlight

Mastering the Art of Hydroponics (STEM)

10 Facts On...

178

You Tell Us

by Matt LeBannister

110

148 That Natural Air Additive

112

Avant-Gardening

184

Max Mart

122

Green Thumb Gardening

187

Distributors

138

Beginner's Corner

202

Coming up in December

by Eric Hopper

124 How Well are you Prepared?

by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr.

132 Can Mineral Nutrition Affect

Plant Disease?

by Guy Sela 140 With a Little Help From Your (Many) Friends

by Glen Babcock

154 The Aquaponics Balancing Act

By William DeBoer

176 How to Use Companion Plants for Pest Control

10

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW foxfarm FP (ashley)

FROM THE EDITOR | Jessica Raymond This month’s issue explores the hundreds of insect pests, including those annoying thrips and mites, and thousands of different plant diseases that can invade and attack your garden. Don’t freak out; wage war. Step one: Know thy enemy. Once you know what’s wreaking havoc in your garden, you’ll be better able to determine the source and reason for its presence and, hopefully, eventually eradicate the problem without harming your prized plants. This month’s featured experts identify every pest and pathogen known to gardeners—from molds to mildews, exotic water contaminants to hydroponic- and soil-specific culprits—and offer battle plans so you can take back control.

When the fight is over, you will need to assess the damage and rebuild your troop's health. One way to do Jessica Raymond, editor that is to create and maintain populations of beneficial microbes in your garden (Matt LeBannister, page 140). editor@maximumyield.com Also, don’t overlook root health. Roots are often forgotten during a health assessment because they’re hidden from view, but they’re keeping your crops on top thriving.

Achieving healthy crops is a respectable goal, but if you could boost nutrition, growth and yields in the process, why wouldn’t you? Enter CO2. According to Glen Babcock (page148), “CO2-enriched plants generally have more extensive and active root systems, which allow them to more thoroughly explore larger volumes of soil in search of the things they need.” This naturally leads to that boost you desire.

Articles on battling bad guys and keeping crops healthy and happy cover just a portion of the education and information we packed into this fat issue. You’ll just have to read on to discover all the goodies inside.

Note: James Kostrava’s bio was missed from the September issue of Maximum Yield USA. Author of “Easy at it Neems” (Maximum Yield USA, September 2012), James is the CEO and founder of Organibliss, LLC, a natural products biotechnology company in Michigan.

For more than 30 years, he held senior level positions at the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce, Foundation for Economic Education, Mackinac Center for Public Policy, Oakland University Foundation and Construction Association of Michigan.

VOLUME 13 – NUMBER 8 November 2012 Maximum Yield is published monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

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

Publication Agreement Number 40739092 Printed In Canada

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson editorial editor@maximumyield.com Editor-in-chief Jessica Raymond Assistant Editor Jessica Skelton ADVERTISING SALES Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Emily Rodgers - emily@maximumyield.com Kelsey Hepples - kelsey@maximumyield.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION ads@maximumyield.com Art Director Alice Joe Graphic Designers Liz Johnston Jennifer Everts Dionne Hurd ACCOUNTING Tracy Greeno - accounting@maximumyield.com Tara Campbell - tara@maximumyield.com

USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations • BWGS • General Hydroponics Humbolt Wholesale • Hydrofarm • Hydro International National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply • Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply • R&M Supply • Tradewinds CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group • Biofloral • Eddis Wholesale • Greenstar Plant Products Inc. • MegaWatt • Quality Wholesale UK DISTRIBUTION Direct Garden Supplies • Growth Technology • Future Harvest Development Europe • Hydrogarden Nutriculture UK • Dutch Pro • Maxigrow

Share this issue and your love of growing with others! Direct your friends to maximumyield.com for their free digital subscription.

12

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Dome Garden Supply • House N Garden • Futchatec • Growth Technology • Hydraspher

NEW sunlight supply FP (Ilona)

contributors Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.

Donald Lester is the plant

Glen Babcock is the owner of

Jennifer Casey loves her two dogs, her husband, the amazing garden he grows and living in the country—in that order. Crafting, reading and cooking from the garden are her favorite ways to spend her time.

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50 years of experience growing plants hydroponically. He is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Georgia, Athens and has authored eight books and written articles for magazines that deal with hydroponic issues.

He currently has his own consulting company, Grosystems, Inc. Dr. Jones currently lives in Anderson, SC, USA.

Grubbycup has been an avid indoor gardener for over 20 years.

His articles were first published in the United Kingdom, and since then his gardening advice has been published in French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Czechoslovakian and German.

He is also considered one of the world’s leading authorities on crochet hydroponics.

Philip McIntosh is a science and

Eric Hopper has over 10 years of

Guy Sela is an agronomist and a

Bill DeBoer is a laboratory scientist

Frank Rauscher is a certified

Matt LeBannister developed a

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

products manager at JH Biotech, Inc., a California based agricultural technology company with 27 OMRIcertified 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.

experience in the hydroponic industry as both a retail store manager and owner. He continuously seeks new methods and products that could help maximize garden performance. Eric resides in Michigan where he and his family strive for a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle.

technology writer with a bachelor’s degree in botany and chemistry and a master’s degree in biological science.

During his graduate research, he used hydroponic techniques to grow axenic plants. He lives in Colorado Springs, CO., where he teaches mathematics at Challenger Middle School.

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

horticulturist and consultant for the garden industry. He’s a contributing author to several publications and was writer and editor of the Green Pages.

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

Garden City Fungi and the founder of ExHale Homegrown CO2. Glen has been involved in Agriculture his entire life. Glen graduated from the University of Montana with a degree in Forestry and has been a mycologist for over 23 years. His research has been published in scientific journals worldwide.

chemical engineer for his innovative software company, Smart Fertilizer (smart-fertilizer.com), which provides fertilizer management solutions.

Applying his background in water treatment, he has lead a variety of projects on reverse osmosis, water disinfection and water purification, and providing high-quality water for irrigation. green thumb as a child, having been born into a family of experienced gardeners. During his career, he has managed a hydroponic retail store and represented leading companies at the Indoor Gardening Expos. Matt has been writing articles for Maximum Yield since 2007. His articles are published around the world.

COMING UP ON THE WEB

Final Stop of the 2012 "Grow Like a Pro" Tour Combines Indoor Gardening and Hydrolife Expo This world-class event will be a combination Indoor Gardening and Hydrolife Expo featuring leading experts from the hydro, snow, surf, skate and bike industries. Held at the beautiful Long Beach Convention Center for the third year running, this expo provides the ideal location with the perfect mix of O culture and climate. Visit A PR! E indoorgardeningexpo.com K R I L TOU for complete event details and to start planning your vacation.

W GRO

14

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

We’re happy to announce we have special group flight rates with WestJet to our trade shows. Visit us online at indoorgardeningexpo.com to receive the promo code.

Got Questions? Get Answers.

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

Free Digital Subscription to Maximum Yield Now you can receive Maximum Yield free to your inbox every month.

Subscribe to the digital edition of Maximum Yield by simply filling out the form at maximumyield.com/digital-subscription

Connect with US maximumyield.com facebook.com/MaximumYield indoorgardeningexpo.com twitter.com/max_yield

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Long Roots Long Gone—Thanks Maximum Yield

I would like to send you my most sincere thanks for getting me the thorough explanation of my long roots. I had, unfortunately, gotten a bit pessimistic about the possibility of anyone actually being interested in helping me. It is very refreshing to get help from someone/some entity (Maximum Yield) that is interested in my success (and sanity in this case)! These long roots have been driving me crazy! As far as I am concerned (and from reading the readers’ comments, I'm quite sure I speak for many), MY magazine is a top-shelf publication fueling education and leading to the success of many; but, I'm guessing you already know this. I feel better expressing my appreciation.

Many, many thanks, Jeff S.

Maximum Yield in Vegas Town

Josh and I went to Vegas last month and we took Maximum Yield to read on the plane. Here's Josh in front of the slots at the airport reading up on hydro. We are traveling fools around here and we love your magazine!

Monica Rakowski KP Indoor Garden Store Lakebay, WA

A Little Confused

I was so pleased to see [your magazine] was a free subscription, but when I went to print off the form to get the magazine mailed to my home, there was a charge.

Also, I think it would be wonderful if your photos had some sort of figure heading ... I was often unsure of what I was looking at.

I am really exited about finding this magazine! … [Before finding it,] I felt constantly frustrated when searching for a hard-copy of an indoor gardening magazine.

Thank you so much for your time, Stephanie Nicholson Hello Stephanie, Maximum Yield is available for free at indoor gardening and hydroponic shops, as well as on our website. We also offer free digital subscriptions at maximumyield.com/digital-subscription.

We charge for hard-copy subscriptions because it costs us to ship them.

Thank you for your feedback on adding captions. Sometimes the images are placed strictly as design details. Other times, images are placed to supplement the article. In the latter case, we try to always include captions.

I hope I have answered all your questions. If not, don’t hesitate to contact me.

via Facebook

Facebook Fans Read and Respond

Did You Know? “Nobody knows for sure how the earliest soilless hydroponics systems worked, but the first hydroponics medium was almost certainly sand (with the possible inclusion of small-sized gravel).”

Ebb flow Daniel Spencer I think the first hydro was some sort of device that floated in a pool a.k.a. the hanging gardens of Babylon Louie Dixon

Did You Know? “A recent arrival on the recycled media scene is expanded glass. Glass is harvested from refuse collection sites and processed into a light, porous medium similar in appearance to lava rock.”

That guy’s doing a good job Abesterdam Anguiano

Josh Rakowski We want to hear from you!

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

16

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Using it right now! And it comes in post-consumer recycled paper bags that can be composted.

Anthony Rodriguez Now that's green!

Jack Fritz

NEW tnou FP (ilona)

NEW sipco FP (linda)

NEW sipco FP (linda)

ASK THE EXPERTS

I have started a motherplant grow chamber and I have an oscillating fan as an intake and a small exhaust fan. It is a little cold; is there anything else I need in my set-up?

Great Gardener Stephen Keen

Hi Great Gardener, If you’re using a small intake fan for cooling your mother chamber and it’s a little cold in there, try putting your intake and exhaust fans on a timer or thermostat (which are available at pretty much any hydroponic or indoor gardening store). That way they will only come on when cooling is actually needed instead of running all the time. As the days get warmer, you’re likely to see an increase in your cooling needs, so the thermostat is really the better option—otherwise, you’ll constantly be adjusting the timer to compensate for outdoor

temperatures. In fact, depending on the climate where you live and the wattage in your mother chamber (wattage = heat), you might find that additional cooling is needed.

Happy Gardening!

Stephen Keen

As a new grower, I am receiving conflicting opinions about manicuring. Basically, I’m not sure which shade leaves to take off. My plants are outdoors and about 2 to 3 ft. tall. Also, I’m not sure whether to let them get bushy or tall.

John Chambers Hi John, There are many different opinions surrounding this issue.

I do not like trimming any Matt LeBannister healthy leaves even if it means more light gets to the lower leaves. Generally speaking, the young top leaves will actually photosynthesize more efficiently than the older lower leaves (even if they are bigger). I tend to remove the older lower leaves that are shaded as a way to make the plant more efficient. Some people will trim the bottom quarter of the plant before

flowering for this reason. I would only remove leaves that are damaged or are older and shaded.

Bushy or tall is really the preference of the grower. If you trim the top and allow the plant to become bushy, there will be more, smaller fruit produced. Tall plants will produce less, but larger, fruit. In the end, either method should leave you with roughly the same yield.

I would recommend doing your own experiment this year and letting some of your plants bush out and others grow tall. This way, come harvest time, you can judge for yourself which option you prefer.

Sincerely, Matt LeBannister

Do you have a question for our experts?

22

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Send it to editor@maximumyield.com or fill out the form on maximumyield.com and your question could be printed in an upcoming issue.

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Absorbing the 99.7% Scientists at Natcore Tech have created the “blackest” solar cell. With an average reflectance of only 0.3%, these black silicon wafers absorb more light, meaning more of the sun’s energy is converted into energy.

This breakthrough makes industry standards like anti-reflective coatings obsolete. The black solar also outperforms standard cells on cloudy days, has a higher energy output and a lower cost.

(Source: treehugger.com)

MAXFACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Crop Improvements Need new Tech to Happen Researchers at Purdue University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service argue that scientists could take greater strides toward crop improvement if there were wider adoption of advanced techniques. Today’s technology could allow scientists to match physiological and genetic characteristics of plants with the soil characteristics that promote or inhibit their growth. Making those connections could reduce the time necessary to improve plants that are coping with changing environmental and climatic conditions.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

Researchers Use Oxygenated Phosphine Fumigation to Control Insect Pests A fumigant called phosphine is more effective at controlling insects when it’s combined with oxygen, according to findings by a USDA scientist. The oxygen-phosphine combination could be an environmentally friendly alternative to methyl bromide for combating pests on harvested fruits and vegetables.

(Source: ars.usda.gov)

24

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW cycoflower FP

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Improving Air Quality With No-till Cropping Studies by the USDA scientists show some no-till management systems can lower atmospheric levels of PM10—soil particles and other material 10 microns or less in diameter that degrade air quality—that are eroded from crop fields via the wind.

(Source: ars.usda.gov)

Lion of a Chance to Support Schools Food Lion is inviting customers to help raise funds for the school of their choice by participating in the MVP Classroom Rewards program.

When customers shop with their MVP Cards, a portion of their grocery bills spent only on qualified store brand products is automatically credited to the shoppers’ local school of choice. Donations up to $2,500 will be distributed three times per year to schools.

“Food Lion is committed to supporting the local communities that we serve,” said Maria Quant-Young, Food Lion community relations supervisor. “Last year, we donated more than $820,000 to schools through the Classroom Rewards program. We look forward to surpassing this amount during the 2012–2013 school year.”

To enroll, visit Food Lion’s website at foodlion.com (Source: freshplaza.com)

Top 25 Transit-friendly U.S. Cities Walk Score recently released its list of 25 U.S. cities ranked by how transitfriendly they are; that is, by how accessible transit actually is to citizens.

Walk Score doesn’t just pull its finding out of thin air; it uses some pretty sophisticated algorithms that take into account service frequency, type of transit, distance and a score-normalizing calculation.

The top five cities on the list are New York, San Francisco, Boston, Washington DC and Philadelphia.

(Source: treehugger.com)

26

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

High-performance Organic Corn In conditions of drought, organic corn yields were 31% higher than non-organic. According to Rodale Institute’s long-running side-by-side trials of organic and non-organic farming, it comes down to the differences in soil managed through chemical fertilizers versus those managed organically. Organic farmers use compost and manure to replenish nitrogen, as well as grow legume cover crops that trap nitrogen from the air and deliver it to the roots of plants. Then there’s the benefit of crop residues left in the field. As a result of these differences, organically managed soils trap more carbon in the soil—and all of that carbon allows these soils to hold in water and nutrients better in drought conditions.

(Source: treehugger.com)

Out-of-this-world Hydroponic Meal Planning NASA is already cooking up a menu for astronauts on a planned mission to the red planet in the 2030s and, lucky for those aboard the spaceship, the cuisine will include more than just Tang and freeze-dried ice cream.

According to Maya Cooper, a senior research scientist at Lockheed Martin, the planning is happening so early because NASA’s current space food doesn’t last long enough. The new program is currently looking at three main menu options, including one that would allow the astronauts to grow their own fresh fruits and vegetables in hydroponic gardens. Other options are to send prepackaged food (which was done in the past) or to use a combination of prepackaged goods with food grown hydroponically on the shuttle.

(Source: npr.org)

28

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Linking Vitamin C and Twin Seedlings Biochemists at the University of California, Riverside recently found that increasing the level of dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR)— a naturally occurring enzyme that recycles vitamin C in plants and animals—in plants increases the level of the vitamin, resulting in the production of twin and triplet seedlings in a single seed.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

NEW sunlight supply FP (Ilona)

NEW tnou FP (ilona)

NEW tnou FP (ilona)

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Commonly Used Pesticide Turns Honeybees Into Picky Eaters Biologists at UC San Diego have discovered that a small dose of a commonly used crop pesticide, imidacloprid, turns honeybees into picky eaters and affects their ability to recruit their nestmates to otherwise good sources of food.

Since 2006, beekeepers in North America and Europe have lost about one-third of their managed bee colonies each year due to colony collapse disorder. While the exact cause is unknown, researchers believe pesticides have contributed to this decline.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

Tapping the Sewers for Geothermal Energy When people use hot water to wash clothes, take a shower or run the dishwasher, all of that heat energy ends up in sewers. It gets pretty hot down there. In fact, the Minnesota-based company Hidden Fuels has found enough thermal energy at one location under the town of Brainerd, Minnesota to heat 229 homes.

Brainerd isn’t heating homes with that energy just yet, but the town is planning to soon heat the police station and local high school using energy drawn from the sewer. This will save the city an estimated $18,000 per year for the high school alone.

(Source: inhabitat.com)

Straight From the Roof to the Supermarket Urban rooftop gardens are nothing new, but now there are plans for these gardens to go corporate. In March, BrightFarms—which develops greenhouses near supermarkets to shorten the food-supply chain—announced it would create a sprawling hydroponic greenhouse on a roof in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The greenhouse would occupy up to 100,000 sq. ft., making it the nation’s largest operation, and would sell its produce to the A&P supermarket chain.

(Source: nytimes.com)

32

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

MAX FACTS

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

This Cell Keeps on Going Harvard researchers have created a novel hydrogen fuel cell. The solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) converts hydrogen into electricity, and it can also store electrochemical energy like a battery. This allows the fuel cell to produce power for a short time after it has run out of hydrogen.

(Source: inhabitat.com)

State University Opens Greenhouse Complex N.C. State University’s Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) has begun operations at three new greenhouses. The approximately 10,000 sq. ft. of additional space will be used for plant trials, as well as fostering relationships with business and campus partners that can rent space for individual or collaborative research projects.

N.C. State wants to expand the greenhouse complex to include a headhouse, which would serve as the center of operations with support facilities like labs, offices, restrooms and storage space, but detailed plans are not yet in place.

(Source: freshplaza.com)

34

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT YOUR GUIDE TO THIS MONTH’S

HOTTEST ITEMS Ask for them at your local indoor gardening store Introducing Andromeda Strain Andromeda Strain is a truly unique biological inoculant. Unlike other microbiological products on the market today, Andromeda Strain will perform well in the aqueous, high-mineral environment of hydroponic systems. Andromeda Strain has been used and tested extensively in commercial greenhouse applications and it reduces or eliminates root diseases and greatly increases nutrient absorption. Andromeda Strain is organic-based and can be used in hydroponics, soil or soilless media. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

LVC1 Grozone Low-voltage Relay AC Controller

Danner Mfg., Inc. Releases Air-coolable Reflector Kit Danner Manufacturing’s Air-coolable Reflector represents the ultimate in professional hydroponic lighting systems. It is designed specifically for high-pressure-sodium and metal-halide hydroponic lighting systems and offers a highly reflective pattern that concentrates light onto the grow tables. The reflector employs an air-cooling design that draws air past the bulb to achieve rapid heat dispersion that prolongs bulb life.

Features include: socket that accepts high-pressure-sodium or metalhalide bulbs, 6-in. flanges for easy connection to duct work, easy slide in, tempered glass, reflector made of high-quality patterned aluminum, 15-in. power cord and a five-year limited warranty. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Stop using high-amperage switchers to control your air conditioning (A/C); use the low-cost, easy-to-use LVC1 instead!

The Grozone ETLlisted LVC1 is the module you need to convert any of your 120 V output into a low-voltage control relay—also called dry contact. Simply hook up the LVC1 screw terminals to the A/C low voltage (24 V) control terminals—where the remote thermostat is normally connected—and you’re set.

Only small gauge wires are necessary, since the 120 or 240 V power lines will be connected directly to the electrical box. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Root Pouch Introduces Boxer Brown, the Most Durable Pot Available Root Pouch’s most rugged line is designed to be used season after season. Our Boxer Brown pot is perfect for the great outdoors and hydroponic growing systems, and is available with and without handles. The brown fabric is made of recycled water bottles. All seams and stitching are reinforced and done with an industrial-strength stitch to deliver a stronger, sturdier bag. In tests, the bag has been reused and washed 20 times. When a kangaroo fights with another kangaroo, it is often considered boxing, which is where the name Boxer Brown originated. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

36

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

37

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Ideal Air 30-pint Dehumidifier

Smart Grow Pro Gardener

If too much moisture in your grow area is an issue, Ideal-Air has you covered. The 30-pint dehumidifer from Ideal-AirTM offers an easy-to-use digital display panel with humidity readings, 1.3 gal. reservoir and a removable, washable filter. The built-in defrost system is designed for operation down to 45°F. A versatile machine, this dehumidifier has an automatic shut-off when the reservoir tank is full or it can be plumbed for permanent drainage. It also offers automatic restart in the event of a power failure. Designed with a heavy-duty compressor and two-speed fan motor, the Ideal-Air 30-pint Dehumidifier offers flexibility in user applications. Perfect for Sun Hut® and Grow Lab® grow tents. Visit your favorite indoor gardening shop to learn more.

Nutrifield’s Smart Grow Pro Gardener system allows for various growing styles—satellite, flood-and-drain, deep-water-culture and top feed. Adjustable to meet your plants' needs, the system can be rotated to three different heights to increase storage of water, improve air flow and drainage. The distance to the light source can also be changed as your plants grow. The unique grate allows rapid drainage, holds all types of media and is excellent for deep-waterculture because the roots can grow through it. The pot’s flat surfaces promote excellent connection to plumbing fittings, ensuring no leaks and ease in maintenance. Sturdy, ribbed construction protects against breakage, and a squat design allows for optimal root growth. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

38

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW global pacific nutrients FP (hayley)

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

LUMii 6 and 8 in. AC Reflectors now Available For those that need efficient air-cooling, the LUMii 6-in. and LUMii 8-in. reflectors have integrated air-cool fittings for maximum air movement. The internal surface is made from highly reflective hammertone aluminum. These LUMii reflectors come completely sealed and feature a hinged lens frame.

They also include a tempered glass lens, aerodynamic built-in socket and a 15-ft. lamp cord. For the most bang for your buck, choose LUMii! Visit an authorized Hydrofarm indoor gardening retailer near you to learn more.

Introducing oxyCERTS Replacement Cloner Inserts OxyCERTS replacement cloner inserts are made in the United States from non-toxic material to fit most popular brand machines. OxyCERTS are lab and grower tested. The unique stem relief hole makes them easy on your cuttings, and the price makes them easy on your wallet. Mold- and bacteria-resistant material holds less water compared to neoprene. The softest of all inserts is now available in five colors, including gray, lilac, sea breeze, blue and rose. For more information, visit an indoor gardening shop near you.

40

Maximum Yield USA  |  November 2012

NEW supercloset FP (Kelsey)

P/U eco labs spread (kelsey)

P/U eco labs spread (kelsey)

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Growstone Super Soil Aerator: a Horticultural, Scientific and Environmental Triple Win Growstone Super Soil Aerator is a breakthrough horticultural product made from 100% recycled glass. A high-performance alternative to perlite, Growstones are 100% American made and chemical free. Growstone Super Soil Aerator holds the perfect balance between air and water content at field capacity. It's highly porous, helping oxygen flow to roots and delivering 70% more aeration than perlite. Ideal for growing a wide variety of plants, this lightweight soil aerator leads to consistent plant development and yields. It’s also guaranteed not to float to the top of mixes and wash away when irrigated, and keeps consistent physical integrity over time after multiple usages. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Forever Flowering Introduces Their New Shade Cloth Forever Flowering has introduced the latest in shade screens.

Traditional shade cloths are black or dark green. Studies have proven that dark colors, like black and green, generate more heat. Our shades have been specifically designed with white reflective material to create the optimal shade of your choice.

Lowering the transpiration rates of plants has just gotten easier. During the day, the screen’s open structure provides solar reflection and cooling, reducing greenhouse and plant temperature. At night, it helps reduce radiated heat loss from the plants. We have seen up to 30% more growth under these shades over the traditional style. They come in 30%, 40%, 50% and 60% transparency. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening or specialty greenhouse retail shop.

44

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

The Supreme Hydroponics 7,600gph Recirculating Water Pump by Danner Mfg., Inc. Danner Mfg., Inc. introduces their new Supreme Hydroponics 7,600-gph Recirculating Water Pump. The new 7,600-gph Hydrive pump is ideal for hydroponic use because it is designed for in-line and submersible operation. It is also oil-free, which means there are no seals to wear out. The pump also has an energy-efficient directional impeller, 12.5 psi continuous duty operation, barbed fittings, a rotating connector to make installation easier and a 20-ft. power cord. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

EnviroGro 26 W Dayspot Grow Light Kit now Available The EnviroGro 26 W Dayspot Grow Light Kit is the perfect solution for bigger, better blooms and healthy plant growth.

With this kit, you can add full-spectrum light anywhere in your home. You can bring your favorite bonsai indoors, spotlight a treasured terrarium or orchid, or even grow an herb garden right in your kitchen. The EnviroGro 26 W Dayspot Grow Light Kit includes a full-spectrum 26-W CFL bulb, a decorative black fixture with an on/off switch, an easy clamp arm and a 6-ft. power cord. For more information, visit an authorized Hydrofarm indoor gardening retailer near you.

46

Maximum Yield USA  |  November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Introducing Titaness Light Shop’s A3V The A3V is the most advanced reflector ever produced to house any 600-W lamp (MH/ HPS/dual arc). It can also be used with a 400-W lamp. It is not only the appearance, the highest-quality and most reflective surface that make our reflectors different; it’s the way they perform. The most important factor of an indoor growroom is the light, and being able to place your light source as close as 10 in. from the canopy (closer than any other reflector on the market), which intensifies the amount of energy the plants absorb. The closer you can get your light source to the top of your garden, the more you will ultimately yield. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information.

Wheatgrass in a Box Wheatgrass in a Box is a complete turnkey kit for growing the most vibrant nutritious wheatgrass in the world. Renowned for its therapeutic properties, wheatgrass juice contains high amounts of chlorophyll and a complete range of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, enzymes and nutrients that your body requires. It is estimated that 1 oz. of wheatgrass juice is the equivalent of 2.5 lb. of vegetables. The Wheatgrass in a Box kit contains premium, organic wheatberries, enough materials for two weeks of juicing and comes with our amazing fertilizer Earth Tonic and our special Wheatgrass Soil Mix, which contains rock dust and our biodynamic humus, Earth Recharge. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Continued on page 162

48

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PEST ID

& Control

d i h p A

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

When many of us dream of our ideal hydroponic garden, the thought of plagues and pestilence don’t usually spoil the idyllic image. So, discovering a pest outbreak in carefully reared plants can come as a nasty shock...

50

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW arborjet FP (ilona)

pest Id and Control

While it’s easy to understand how disease outbreaks inadvertently fire up if fungal spores are brought in through ventilation and travel undetected in the air, insect pests are another matter, right? After all, how hard can it be to screen out living critters, even if some of them are rather small and camouflaged? Unfortunately, plant pests are highly developed to travel from crop to crop, even if those crops are protected by an enclosed structure. What can be even more alarming is once a pest has invaded the comfort of a warm, secure indoor garden, they are usually free to wreak havoc without being pursued or annihilated by any of the natural predators that are present in outdoor environments. Also, since indoor plants are protected from cold winters, heavy rain, frost and snow, insects can happily exist all year-round with little check on population growth.

Since pests can quickly breed and cause significant damage in an indoor garden, growers need to be highly vigilant—both with prevention of infestations and with regular monitoring. The first step in this process is to know what you are looking for; however, plant pests are highly diverse in appearance, size, the damage they cause and the conditions that favor their population explosion.

Woolly aphids are often mistaken for other insect pests.

52

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

pest Id and Control

Pest myths

First, let’s unravel some myths about pest attacks in hydroponic gardens: Myth 1: Insect pests will only attack sick, weak

plants. This might be the case with certain opportunistic diseases but not with insect pests. In fact, insects love lush, plentiful and healthy growth because it provides them with a nutritious source of plant material or sap to feed on. Healthy plants are also guaranteed to provide food for the next generation of bugs.

Myth 2: Indoor or enclosed gardens never get insect pests as they can’t get into the growing area. Having procedures and barriers, such as double-door entrances and insect mesh over vents can certainly help prevent many insect invasions but they do not guarantee an outbreak won’t occur sooner or later. Many insect pests can be transported on clothing, on equipment and materials, on plant material brought in, in growing media and even in water. So exclusion, while helpful, is not always successful.

54

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Myth 3: Pesticides are harmful, toxic chemicals that

aren’t used in hydroponics. While some pesticides are indeed fairly potent chemicals that we want to avoid in our own food production, there are an increasing number of safer options. Technically still pesticides because they kill pests, they belong to less-toxic and non-toxic classes of compounds.

Pesticide use with a wide range of chemical classes is common in commercial hydroponics and many crops could simply not be grown economically without them; however, we are free to pick and choose the best options for pest control in our own gardens and take advantage of new technologies.

Myth 4: Household soap and oil sprays are safe and

effective on insect pests. While careful application of these can smother some insect pests, prolonged and excessive use of soaps can destroy some plants. Certain plants are more resistant to soap and oil sprays than others; however, sensitive plants can become badly damaged under some circumstances.

pest Id and Control

Pest identification

While there is a huge range of pests that infest hydroponic crops, indoor gardens tend to have a few common culprits. These include whiteflies, aphids, mites, thrips, fungus gnat larvae, scales, mealy bugs and caterpillars.

Many of the pests that typically infest common houseplants are also those that hydroponic growers battle, so bringing a new potted houseplant into the indoor garden can be a source of many new infestations.

Some pests thrive because of the environment—for example, thrips and mites favor a lower humidity and dry air—while others are not fussy and will take advantage of any succulent plant to make home.

For correct pest identification, growers are advised to use a magnifying glass to see some of the smallest invaders. Mites are usually too small to be seen without magnification; however, their damage can be severe and is often mistaken for a plant disease or nutrient deficiency since the pests are so hard to detect. Mites appear as tiny red or brown dots on the undersides of the leaves and they create fine webbing in the leaf axils. They also strip the epidermis of the foliage over time, giving a silvery or bronze appearance. Thrips are another in the tiny invader class. They are often very difficult to see without magnification, particularly because they move fast and zap

Mite damage on a hydroponic pepper fruit.

56

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

pest Id and Control

undercover when the foliage is inspected.

Thrips are small, black, elongated insects that can be winged or wingless, and they are most common in hot dry conditions. Thrip damage looks like small silvery flecks on the plant surface that can eventually give a bleached appearance. They also cause distortion of new growth, as they inject toxic saliva into plant sap.

“Some of the most effective Technologies for pest control are actually some of nature’s oldest.”

Of the slightly larger insects that can be seen on close inspection, aphids and whiteflies are the most common. Aphids are softbodied insects that come in a range of colors from green through black. There are a number of different species. Typically, aphids are found feeding in the top growing points of a plant and often right in the buds. In peppers, aphid feeding can cause distortion, twisting and deformity of the new leaves, which is caused by the toxins they inject when feeding. This is usually mistaken for a plant virus or disease. Whiteflies are a notorious and serious pest of hydroponic crops.

The adults are small, white flying pests, but it is the juvenile or scale stages of the whitefly life cycle that can suck a crop dry. These juveniles produce masses of honeydew that sticks to all surfaces and grows a black mold (also called sooty mold), which contaminates leaves, fruit and growing surfaces.

While many growers regularly monitor the upper parts of their plants for insects, they often forget there are some pests that inhabit the root zone. Wet areas and algae attract fungus gnats. Often, growers assume these small black flies are harmless; however, fungus gnats lay eggs in the surface of exposed damp growing media and the resulting larvae attack plant roots, causing damage and

58

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW sunmaster venture lighting FP (kelsey)

pest Id and Control

allowing the entry of pathogens like pythium into the tissue. Fungus gnat larvae look like small whitish worms in the growing media or attached to the roots. Root mealy bugs can also infest the root zone. These pests appear as waxy whitish deposits on the roots and in the growing media. Hydroponic crops are also susceptible to nematodes, microscopic eelworms that typically infect crops through water supplies or organic growing mediums. A nematode infestation can be hard to identify, although some species cause obvious root knots to develop on the root system.

New issues with pests: super resistant bugs

Insect pests common in hydroponics are continuously evolving along with the technologies we use to control them. In fact, there are now super bugs: pests that have developed resistance to many of the spray controls that, in the past, were highly effective. Having a genetically resistant super bug population in a hydroponic garden is a grower’s worst nightmare, particularly if the insects become resistant to more than one product.

The first indication that there is a problem with super bug populations is when a triedand-true insect control spray, which is used on a regular basis, becomes less effective to the point where the insects are no longer controlled at all. This is due to the fact the insects who initially had some resistance to the pesticide survived and bred, passing on their resistant genes to the next generation.

The entire population then quickly developed resistance to the overused control option due to the pests’ fast breeding rate.

The way to prevent this occurring in pest populations is to use a number of different control options and to rotate the use of different spray classes so the pests don’t have the opportunity to develop long-term genetic resistance.

New control technologies

Some of the most effective technologies for pest control are actually some of nature’s oldest. The botanical compound neem oil,

60

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW humboldt nutrients FP (ashley)

pest Id and Control

Feeding damage caused by thrips on hydroponic tomato fruit.

derived from the Indian neem tree, has been used for insect control for centuries; however, only recently have extracts and formulations that dissolve easily into water become available for small growers. As well as having other modes of action, neem is an insect growth regulator, so it is a longer-term approach to breaking the insect life cycle. Although it is safe and non-toxic (being essentially a plant extract), hydroponic growers need to be careful with application of some neem products. Many of them are oil-based (or, emulsifiable concentrates) and should always be tested on a small area over a 48-hour period before spraying all plants. On the other hand, the active ingredient in neem—azadiractin—can also be found in some non oil-based sprays.

Another option is to control insect pests with insect diseases in a process known as biological control. Products containing spores of certain fungal pathogens that target only certain insect pests are available. A good example is Bacillus thuringiensis, a fungus that targets caterpillars and is widely used in commercial horticulture.

Others on the market include Verticillium lecanii, a common soil fungus used to control several different insect species, and Beauveria bassiana for aphid and thrips control. This technology is still evolving, so we are likely to see a larger range of products that work under a wider range of environmental conditions in the future.

62

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW greenstar FP (ilona)

pest Id and Control

One of the control options that has much appeal to indoor gardeners is the use of beneficial insects. These natural predators and parasites can be purchased and released into the garden to control certain pests. For

“there are now super bugs: pests that have developed resistance to many of the spray controls that, in the past, were highly effective.”

64

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

example, ladybugs (Hippodamia convergens), lacewings (Chrysoperia carnea) and preying mantes (Tenodera aridifolia sinensis) are general predators that eat a range of pests; Encarsia formosa eats greenhouse whiteflies; and Hypoaspis miles controls fungus gnats and spring tails. While beneficial bugs don’t always establish and survive after release, it is worth trying to develop a diverse ecosystem of these insects in a hydroponic garden, as this could put a serious dent in pest populations.

Controlling insect pests in a hydroponic garden can take multiple approaches, from exclusion, hygiene, and careful inspection and monitoring practices to quick and proactive control options. Growers need to experiment and try a range of different products and control methods in order to establish which approach is going to work best for them in the long-term battle against the invaders.

OF MOLDs AND

MILDEWs

by Philip McIntosh

Ah, fungi and their relatives fungal protists. Wonderful organisms aren’t not? From a strictly biological point of view, they are indeed fascinating. From an economic perspective, they are a nightmare.

66

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW vermicrop FP (ashley)

of molds and mildews Few things strike more fear into the hearts of farmers than the appearance of fuzzy or powdery growth on their plants.

Hydroponic growers face the additional horror of finding roots engulfed by an unspeakably gross slime or rot away before their eyes. Ah, fungi and their relatives fungal protists… what a fascinating nightmare.

Molds and mildews are fungi What are commonly called molds and mildews are usually members of kingdom Fungi. Fungi are eukaryotic (contain a nucleus), heterotrophic (obtain food from their environment), absorbers (they release enzymes into their environment to break down organic matter that they then reabsorb) that never contain chlorophyll (this separates them cleanly from all plants and plant-like organisms) and reproduce either sexually or asexually by budding or by the production of spores. (A note on spores: spores are not like seeds. Seeds contain a complete multicellular plant embryo, while a spore is a single cell that is specially designed for dispersal and survival. Some spores die relatively rapidly if conditions are right, but other spores are more survivable and can remain dormant for quite some time until conditions are right for germination.) This puts them in alliance with other eukaryotic organisms, such as plants and animals. Although the disease symptoms fungi exhibit can be similar to those that accompany bacterial infections, fungi are nothing like bacteria (since they are eukaryotes, fungi

possess a much greater complexity of cellular organization and structure than bacteria).

Fungi are a diverse lot. They range from single-celled yeasts like Saccharomyces cerevisiae—used in bread and beer making—to the colorful and majestic mushrooms like Amanita muscaria, which rapidly appear after a good rain.

However, mycologists do not always agree on exactly how they should be classified. Like plants, fungi have historically been classified on the appearance of their reproductive structures; however, not all fungi produce clearly observable reproductive structures. To make it even more difficult, some fungi produce different kinds of reproductive structures depending on the environment, or whether or not they are able to undergo sexual—as opposed to asexual—reproduction.

Molds

What we generally refer to as molds are fungal colonies that begin as white fuzzy growth on some substrate, such as a piece of fruit or other bit of decaying organic material.

However, the term mold is rather a catch-all, as it simply

Rust, pictured here, is a plant disease caused by fungi.

68

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Although the disease symptoms fungi exhibit can be similar to those that accompany bacterial infections, fungi are nothing like bacteria."

describes a fungal colony that is either producing no spores at all or eventually produces spores by asexual means only. Asexual spores are generated by the standard eukaryotic cell division process called mitosis. With the exception of variations produced by random mutation, all mold spores are genetically alike. This is not a good strategy for adapting to new environments, but it is an excellent shortterm survival strategy. Mold spores are produced by the millions and float about easily in the slighted movement of air, which is one reason why molds can be hard to get rid of.

Spores tend to arise near the center of the colony before radiating outward to cover the expanding mycelium. The mycelium is composed of a mass of fungal cells called hyphae, which are extending thread-like tubular cells. Mold spores are often quite colorful. Brown,

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

69

of molds and mildews

black, green, blue, yellow, purple and shades of orange and red are commonly seen, and they provide an initial clue as to the species. Fortunately for growers, most molds are saprophytes that gain their nutrients from already dead organic matter. However, some molds are decidedly plant parasites, either by nature or by opportunity. Plant diseases caused by fungi include rusts, smuts and various forms of rot.

Mildews

Mildew... now there is an interesting term. It means different things at different times. Mildew is sometimes the name given to a foul-smelling and seemingly non-obvious fungus growing in a damp place where it is not supposed to. On the other hand, some fungal species have been given specific names, such as powdery mildew or downy mildew.

Powdery mildew is usually a member of the fungal order Erysiphales, and the ones of specific interest to hydroponic growers belong to the genera Podosphaera and Erysiphe.

Powdery mildews appear as white powdery spots, usually on the older lower leaves first, but can spread to cover the entire plant if unchecked. The causative agents prefer moderate to high humidity and warm temperatures. The severity of the disease depends on many factors, including the variety of the host plant, the age and condition of the plant, and the weather conditions during the growing season.

Powdery mildews are a bit fussy, however, and a particular species will only infect a few types of plants.

Protecting against and treating fungal infections There are thousands of different plant diseases caused by fungi, including rusts, smuts, blights, damping off disease and rots. Fungal infections are particularly troublesome because fungal cells are in many ways similar to those of other eukaryotes (such as plants), which makes it difficult to find chemicals that will attack fungus, yet be harmless to plants and people. There are some treatments available for particular fungal diseases, although these treatments might be only partially effective.

70

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Fortunately, most plants of commerce are available in disease-resistant varieties. However, just because a plant is resistant to fungal infection, does not mean it is completely immune. Overcrowding, poor air circulation and unnecessarily high humidity will doom even the hardiest of varieties. And, even with the best of practices, sometimes fungal pathogens still appear. Like bacteria and viruses, fungi can find their way into a host plant through cuts or breaks in the plant epidermis (hence why it’s important to treat plants gently). Also, some fungi produce special penetrating hyphae that are capable of forcing their way into plant tissues or growing in through stomata—powdery mildew is one example.

Heirloom cultivars also pose a problem for they require nothing short of close inspection and rigid adherence to procedures for proper environmental conditions.

Treatment options for fungal diseases include pruning diseased leaves and stems or the complete destruction of diseased plants—better to intentionally destroy half a crop than to lose all of it to an unchecked infection. Diseased plants should be disposed of properly and not used in compost for future application. Anti-fungal treatment options that might be acceptable to organic and natural growers include compounds of copper and sulfur, or hydrogen peroxide. Other methods that are based on plant oils—for example, neem oil, bicarbonates and lipopeptides (a combination of a fatty molecule and a protein fragment)—are under investigation. Some say they work and other say they don’t. If pruning, removal or organic-chemical methods fail, commercial fungicides do work; although, not everyone will consider this approach acceptable.

With respect to the powdery and downy mildews, avoid overhead watering and application of nitrogen fertilizer late in the

Mold spores are produced by the millions and float about easily in the slighted movement of air, which is one reason why molds can be hard to get rid of."

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

71

of molds and mildews

Powdery mildews

appear as white powdery spots, usually on the older lower leaves first, but can spread to cover the entire plant if unchecked. " growing cycle. Mildews thrive on healthy turgid tissues such as those encouraged by application of nitrogen. A grower can also take proactive steps to protect a crop from attack by molds and mildews. Good air circulation, elimination of overcrowding, appropriate watering practices and vigilance are the key to consistently healthy and disease-free plants.

72

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Powdery mildew.

One of the most dreaded afflictions of plants in a hydroponics operation is pythium rot. Although pythium does appear to be rather fungus-like, it is actually a fungal protist. Close attention to hygiene, a solid program of system maintenance and cleaning, and the use of an ultraviolet sterilization lamp in recirculating nutrient systems can help prevent the appearance of pythium. Also, maintaining an adequate oxygen supply and a temperature between 68 and 72°F in the root zone makes it difficult for pythium to gain a foothold.

Exotic Contaminants

by Jennifer Casey

Water is water, right? Wrong.

There is a lot more in your water than just hydrogen and oxygen; in fact, there could be some nasty exotic contaminants floating around.

74

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Exotic Contaminants Ferrous iron. Arsenic. Boron.

No, this isn’t a list of possible names for Gwyneth Paltrow’s next baby, but a few of the exotic contaminants that could be lurking in your water. The same water you drink and give to your plants! Along with these baddies are ferric iron, iron bacteria, arsenic #3, arsenic #5, and even endocrine disruptors (EDCs) and pharmaceuticals, and personal care products (PPCPs)! The truth is understanding what’s actually in your water is of vital importance to your plants, your health and your wallet.

The most common of these—iron—leads us to… Michigan! Michigan is in the iron belt, which is part of the reason Detroit is the heart of the auto industry. A high level of iron in the soil is great for mining and metal manufacturing but it’s not so great for the water. Since the average gardener probably doesn’t have a graduate degree in chemistry, it’ll be helpful to drop a bit of science here before discussing the best way to rid your water of iron.

Iron exists in two states in water called ferric and ferrous. Ferric means the iron has been oxidized, frequently by iron bacteria, while ferrous iron (also called dissolved iron) is not oxidized. Orange gunk in a RO system’s prefilters indicates the presence of ferric iron, as do rust stains in your sinks, toilet and bathtub. Orange gunk can also indicate the presence of iron bacteria, which creates a slimy orange substance and can be tough to get rid of. Iron removal is tricky, as even 0.33 ppm can be bad for your plants and can prematurely foul RO membranes. Typically, removal requires a special media filter.

A high level of iron in the soil is great for mining and metal manufacturing but it’s not so great for the water.”

76

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

new avion FP (hayley)

Exotic Contaminants laws require municipalities to ensure less than 10 ppb (parts Methyl tert-butyl ether, also known as methyl tertiary butyl per billion) in the water they provide, but private wells can ether and MTBE, is an organic compound with the mocontain this dangerous contaminant. lecular formula (CH3)3COCH3. MTBE is a gasoline additive A water test with an independent lab can determine the that prevents engine knocking and helps decrease engine safety of the water. emissions. Leaking underground storage tanks are usually Of increasing concern, and frequently in the news as of the cause of groundwater contamination, late, are EDCs and PPCPs. While some of these chemicals and the substance causes an unpleascan be naturally occurring, most of them enter our ant odor and taste in water. Once water through industrial practices in agriculture introduced, it spreads throughand from us. When we take prescription medicaout groundwater easily due tions that are not fully absorbed or broken down its solubility, and removal It’s important for by our bodies, these chemicals enter the hydroon a municipal level can gardeners to be aware logic cycle through our waste water and are be very costly. The U.S. often hard for water treatment plants to get Environmental Protection of potential boron rid of. In the case of agriculture and livestock, Agency classifies MTBE contamination, as even pesticides and medications given to livestock as a human carcinogen in very low levels can be enter the environment directly through runoff high doses, and its use is and drainage. This water trickles into rivers and banned in California and toxic to plants." streams and joins the hydrologic cycle as well.

New York. The good news?

EDCs interrupt endocrine activity in animals and MTBE can be removed with a humans, which can disrupt growth and reproductive simple activated, coconut-derived activity. Many of us are aware of Bisphenol A (BPA) in carbon filter. plastic and make efforts to avoid drinking and eating food Although best known as an odorless, packaged in plastic containing BPA. This concern is due tasteless poison popular with murdering schemers throughto the endocrine-disrupting effect of BPA and is why many out the annals of history, arsenic can also be found in your companies have switched to BPA-free plastic. Unfortunately, drinking water. This contaminant can be naturally occurthe water we drink can contain these insidious contamiring, but is also a by-product of environmental pollution and nants. Reverse osmosis can remove many of these contamihas been linked to organ cancers, headaches, nausea and a nants but must be utilized as point-of-use (household) filtrahost of other health issues. There tion due to the expense of using RO on a municipal level. are two forms: arsenic 3 and One of the most difficult contaminants to remove is an arsenic 5. Arsenic 3 is diffielement called boron. Although levels in drinking water cult to remove and must be are not regulated by the federal government, some states oxidized and converted to do have allowable levels. While most is naturally occurring, arsenic 5, at which point some boron contamination is a result of human activity. it can be removed by Boron can cause rashes, dizziness, vomiting and a whole host RO filtration. Arsenic of health problems with prolonged exposure. It’s important compliance for gardeners to be aware of potential boron contamination, as even very low levels can be toxic to plants. Boron removal is difficult and complex, involving a specialty resin and other custom equipment, and is best facilitated by a professional.

These are just a few of the contaminants you might find in your tap water. While it’s important to know what’s out there, it is far more useful to know what is in your water. Taking the time and investing a bit of money in a professional water test from a certified lab can save you from endless guesswork and save you from spending money on the wrong solutions. If you use city water, researching water through your local municipality is a great start. Recognizing that municipalities expect consumers to use a point-of-use or wholehouse filters will also help. After all, getting a water test and the right filter will not only save you money; it will save your health and your plants.

78

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

How to Keep Your

PLANTS Healthy

by Frank Rauscher

We all want to keep our plants healthy. However, when we see leaves that don’t look quite right, many of us overlook some of the more common potential sources of the troubles: problems in the soil or roots…

80

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

How to Keep your plants Healthy The well-being of the invisible part of your crop—the roots—is crucial to overall plant health. In fact, problems in the root system can often be the cause of yield reduction or plant loss in indoor gardens. In hydroponic systems, a disease in one plant’s root system can quickly spread throughout the entire crop, as all the plants share the same recycling nutrient solution. In this case, daily vigilance is key to keeping new issues in check. In fact, anytime you can visibly inspect your crop’s roots in any system, your chances of getting things on the right track again are much better (this is something you can take into consideration when you first select the type of system you intend to employ).

So, what’s going on in the roots? These fibrous tissues that feed water, nutrients and in the root system oxygen into the can often be the cause of plant are made yield reduction mostly of cellulose, hemior plant loss in indoor cellulose and gardens." lignin. They are also responsible for providing physical stability for the plant. Too often, the oxygen part of these functions is overlooked and that’s where trouble can begin quickly.

Like us, plants will suffer and die much quicker without air than without water. Having the right balance in your system, regardless if it’s hydroponic or soil, is vital.

Healthy roots should be continually growing—as the older roots die off, new ones take their place. A healthy root system will have lots of new, white furry-looking strings everywhere. As they mature, they grow in size, as well as often

problems

82

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW california grow films FP (ilona)

How to Keep your plants Healthy modify their color and lose a lot of the furriness that is key the nutrient solution? Are there too many plants competing to nutrient uptake. This is why the life-death cycle within for the air supply? the roots is so important; some amount of root death is Of course, the techniques required to supply adequate oxyappropriate and is part of the regeneration process. Don’t gen to the roots vary depending on the type of system. Methconfuse a normal amount of death with a sign of disease. ods include having a dependable and adequate air pump, However, if you are making a habit making sure your trays are sloped for of observing these things routinely, good drainage, making sure your soil you will be able to recognize when pot has adequate drain holes and not something is off. As such, don’t make watering too often. There are also too many changes too often; you’ll chemical oxygenators that you can buy never get used to what things should to help supply this precious element to plants will suffer and die look like. the nutrient solution.

The temperature of the root system Feeding is the next thing to consider. much quicker without air can certainly have a major impact on Too much of most nutrients can actuthan without water. its health—the yield will suffer even ally be toxic to plants. So, carefully Having the right balance in if there are no other visible effects. read the label of the fertilizer you use Also, when the temperature fluctuates and avoid combining different nutriyour system, regardless too much, it can bring on the likelients unless they indicate this is acceptif it’s hydroponic hood of disease. If the roots are in a able. For example, adding a fertilizer or soil, is vital." liquid solution, try to keep it around with nitrogen in it to one that already 70°F. This concept also applies to has a healthy dose of nitrogen can roots in soil, but usually the only way overstimulate or kill plants. If you want to control soil temperature is by controlling the to increase the level of a nutrient to your ambient air temperature crop, try doing it more gradually. On the other in the growroom. hand, remember that forgetting Oxygen, as mentioned earlier, is a major player in the to fertilize your plants is going to health of the plant’s roots. In soil, lack of oxygen stifles result in loss of yield, if not beneficial bacteria and promotes harmful varieties. When a loss of entire plants. soil or nutrient solution becomes anaerobic (lacking suffiThe microbial life within cient oxygen), root disease or rot starts quickly and the root your root environment is system shuts down. When this happens, water is not taken key to helping your up by the plant and the plant can look like it’s drying out. plants make the So, ask yourself: Is there decomposing organic material in best use of the

Like us,

84

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

How to Keep your plants Healthy nutrients you give them. These bacteria and fungi convert the nutrients you supply into a form that the plants can absorb and uptake. Without them, the whole process stops. These healthy beneficial microbes not only help feed your plant, but fight off insects and bacterial, fungal the damaging pathogens. and viral infections, and each So, obviously of these problems can be there are quite reduced substantially when a number of daily inspections and immediate issues important in keeping follow-up is practiced." your plants' root systems healthy, but are there other areas that you can influence or control to give you healthier plants? Yes! Catch pests early. Pests include insects and bacterial, fungal and viral infections, and each of these problems can be reduced substantially when daily inspections and immediate follow-up is practiced. Have and use a good magnifying glass so you can really see what’s going on, and be sure to check out the water reservoir and nutrient solution. In other words, visit and enjoy your plants frequently, and you’ll be rewarded in many ways.

Outdoor gardens, though they are exposed to a lot of different outdoor pests, get a little help from nature. The rain and wind get rid of a large percentage of pest populations, and beneficial insects are typically present to control the leftover unwanted pests. Indoor hydroponic gardens, though not generally exposed to all these pests, do have the disadvantage of having so many plants grouped

Pests include

86

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW Zyme Alive FP (hayley)

How to Keep your plants Healthy together in one area. This really increases the chance for insects or disease to spread more rapidly. So, prevention is imperative. Don’t let the problems get a good start to begin with. Cleanliness and organization will help you prevent all kinds of pests. Here are some tips on things you can do:

Growing indoors • Don’t bring your houseplants into the growroom to share the grow light. This increases the chance for a shared infection.

• Don’t go into your indoor growroom after working in your outdoor garden, as this increases the chance of introducing pests. Do it the other way around.

• Keep your indoor gardening tools separate and clean.

• Keep the humidity at the low end, say 40 to 60%, and avoid letting the ambient air temperature get too high. Try to keep it below 80°. Good ventilation will help with both of these issues.

• After your crops are harvested, thoroughly clean the equipment. Tent walls, pots and other equipment in the growroom can harbor a multitude of pests. Mild dish soap will remove most of the pests. And don’t forget to disinfect. Isopropyl alcohol kills only a small spectrum of disease; use 10% diluted bleach before rinsing.

Outdoor and indoor considerations

• Wash your hands between dealing with different crops, especially if you noticed any type of pest or disease.

• Remove dead leaves (pests thrive in decaying material).

• Always clean a tool immediately after dealing with a plant you suspect is infected with disease or insects.

• Remove and dispose of sick plants immediately.

• Don’t overwater! Plants need oxygen as much as moisture. For success, you’ll need to find a balance for your watering practices. Always water deeply, but never too often.

• Don’t visit your gardens directly after coming from a plant nursery. You never know what pests you might have come into contact with.

Keeping your plants healthy is the best way to maximize your yield and avoid heartbreaking catastrophes. Lots of little things are what it takes to succeed. This work is not complicated, and it can sure be relaxing and satisfying.

88

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

ARTICLE

GETTING TO KNOW

Compatibility

Agents

BY DONALD LESTER

When Donald Lester mentions compatibility agents, his family immediately thinks of unscrupulous dating services. So, he decided to write this article in order to clear up the misconception—not only for his relatives, but for anyone else who might be confused.

90

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW sunlight supply FP (Ilona)

getting to know compatibility agents In a previous article, I discussed the importance of avoiding chemical incompatibilities, especially when mixing pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals in your nutrient solution tanks. All sorts of undesirable things can happen—everything from common and costly precipitation (settling out of products due to a chemical reaction) to rare explosions and even fires. Even if there are no outward signs of serious problems, an incompatibility can weaken the mixture and greatly reduce the desired effect.

Typically, growers are urged to take small amounts of the products they want to combine, mix them in a small glass jar and look for the telltale signs of incompatibility: precipitation, cloudiness in the solution or heating up of the mixture.

(It is important to use a glass jar because metal containers can react with many kinds of chemicals.) Some people avoid this simple test and “cook book” their mixtures at full scale, but this is the kind of scenario that leads to the most serious and most expensive incompatibility problems.

Often, the term compatibility agent is used to refer to an additive that can facilitate a

Adding water conditioner changes the solution's pH to dissolve powder.

92

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

High pH water doesn't dissolve powder.

successful mixture. In this article, I will discuss some of the more common compatibility agents and how they can help you avoid the problems of chemical incompatibility and the subsequent undesired results. Keep in mind, however, compatibility agents do have a legitimate place in greenhouse and hydroponics tank mixes, but they are not a fix for bad mixing decisions. They are also not a magic additive to make impossible mixtures work. For the most part, the old saying “you cannot un-fry an egg” best describes what you can do once a chemical incompatibility happens; it’s not pretty.

In regulatory terms, compatibility agents are referred to as adjuvants. Adjuvants are defined in the horticultural world as any material added to a pesticide—including insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and even some fertilizers—to enhance its effects.

Some pesticide manufacturers add adjuvants to their formula during the manufacturing process. These adjuvants are referred to as “formulation adjuvants,” whereas adjuvants added by the applicator are called “spray adjuvants.” The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not regulate adjuvants. Likewise, most states do not regulate them either; although, adjuvants are regulated as pesticides in California.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

93

getting to know compatibility agents

There are several types of adjuvants: spreaders (wetting agents), stickers (deposition agents), buffering and conditioning agents (pH reducers, water conditioners), drift control agents (foaming agents), defoaming agents, thickening agents and UV absorbents. It is important to note that not all With no wetting agent, spray beads up. Notice of these additives can be The wetting agent spreads out water drops the amount of white, unsprayed areas. combined into one tank to form a film for better spray coverage. mix and no one product Spreaders (wetting agents) and stickers can perform the function of all adjuvants. It is easy (deposition agents) to get lost in the terms, so I will discuss the simiIn chemistry, a wetting agent is any substance added larities and differences between the different kinds to a liquid to lower its surface tension—the force of adjuvants below (however, since foaming and that allows insects to stand on water—and thus indefoaming agents are not often used indoors, I will crease its ability to spread across or penetrate into a not cover these additives). solid. In other words, spreaders allow a water droplet

94

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

“stickers, as the

name implies, make a spray solution stick to the leaf surface in order to reduce the amount that washes off during irrigation or rain. "

to spread into a film over a surface. As a college student, I witnessed a demonstration of this phenomenon: the addition of a wetting agent to a pond broke the water’s surface tension and mosquitoes literally sunk and drowned right before my eyes.

Typically, spreaders are specialized detergents or soaps. As such, never add a household detergent or soap to a spray mixture; always go by the pesticide label recommendations. There are conventional and organic versions of wetting agents. The most popular organic wetting agents are yucca-based products, which are natural, biodegradable and leave no toxic residues.

Stickers, as the name implies, make a spray solution stick to the leaf surface in order to reduce the amount that washes off during irrigation or rain.

Foliar-applied nutrients and pesticides need to stick to a plant’s surface and enter into the plant to do their work. But some plants, like grasses, have a small surface area, so droplets of spray have a hard time sticking to the leaves. Also, the size of the droplet produced by the sprayer might be too large. Smaller droplets adhere better to leaf surfaces and improve coverage, but there is more chance for spray drift with smaller droplet size. Compounding the problem is the fact that some plants have an extra waxy layer or excessive hairiness on the leaves that repels water-based sprays. This is where spreaders and stickers, which are often used together in tank mixes, come in. Be aware that applying too much spreader can cause the drops to roll off the leaves

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

95

getting to know compatibility agents

(the opposite of what you want), so always follow the pesticide label and use recommended dosages. Also, just as spreaders and stickers increase the absorption of materials into plants, spreaders and stickers can also increase the absorption of pesticides into the skin! So, when using a spreader or sticker and pesticide together, be extra careful to cover up and protect your skin to minimize exposure.

Buffering and conditioning agents (pH reducers, water conditioners) When mixing chemicals with water, it is always important to know the pH and hardness of the water before adding anything to the tank.

Most pesticides are acidic in nature (pH 5.5 to 7.0). Pesticides exposed to high alkaline water (above pH 7.0) degrade quickly and lose effectiveness, or even break down completely.

Often in hydroponics systems, the pH of the tank solution tends to climb into the basic (alkaline) range over time, so growers add a pH reducer material to offset that reaction before the addition of a pesticide. This will adjust the pH to the desired range, but it might not hold it there. A pH buffer will hold the pH in the desired range, and some pesticide manufacturers add buffers to help stabilize their products in a narrow range.

Also, hard water usually has high levels of calcium and magnesium that react with pesticides.

Always check the pesticide label for recommendations for hard water conditions.

“Typically, growers

are urged to take small amounts of the products they want to combine, mix them in a small glass jar and look for the tell-tale signs of incompatibility: precipitation, cloudiness in the solution or heating up of the mixture."

96

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

getting to know compatibility agents

Thickeners A plant will absorb pesticides and nutrients through the leaves as long as the solution stays wet. If it dries, the spray will remain on the leaves until rain, dew or irrigation wets it again.

This stop-and-start absorption action can lead to the spray being absorbed too slowly to be effective. Thickeners increase the viscosity (or, thickness) of the spray solution to slow evaporation (volatilization) and keep the solution on plant surfaces for a longer period of time to increase absorption.

“In chemistry,

New robomatic HPV emily

a wetting agent is any substance added to a liquid to lower its surface tension— the force that allows insects to stand on water— and thus increase its ability to spread across or penetrate into a solid."

UV absorbents Ultraviolet light is damaging to many pesticides.

Just as we use sunscreen to protect our skin from the damaging rays of the sun, pesticide manufacturers add special absorbents to protect the integrity of their product.

Now that you know the difference between a sticker and a water conditioner, you can be more confident in selecting the right spray compatibility agents for use in your indoor tank mixes.

Plus, you can increase the effectiveness of your spray applications and save yourself an afternoon of cleaning out unwanted precipitation sediment from the bottom of your tank.

98

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Some gardeners are very artistic in their approach to gardening, in that they are content to estimate and remember which years had good harvests and what plants were the most productive. Others, however, like to nerd out and use a more scientific method‌

100

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW inda gro FP (ilona)

Gardening for geeks

On the scientific side, there are empirical ways to show how productive a garden was. The first and simplest bit of data to collect is simply what was grown. That’s because it’s helpful to know which varieties you’ve tried and which ones you like best when sitting down and making wish lists with seed catalogs. (For example, I like the flavors of black krim and big rainbow tomatoes more than I do early girls, which is handy to know when I’m picking out seeds to plant next year.)

When looking for new varieties to try, you can try those similar to known favorites or you can intentionally try something completely different from what you have in the past.

A somewhat more labor-intensive record that should be made is how much was harvested in pounds. Note that plants with smaller harvests, such as saffron or lavender, might be easier to measure in smaller units like ounces.

To make the math easier to follow, the numbers used in the following examples are hypothetical. Let’s say two black krim tomato plants yielded 10 lb. of tomatoes, or three big rainbow tomato plants yielded 9 lb. of tomatoes. If individual plants aren’t tracked, calculating how much each plant averaged is simple: just divide the amount harvested by the number of plants. If two black krims produced 10 lb., the average

102

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

from each plant is 5 lb. (10 lb. ÷ two plants). Using this same calculation, each big rainbow plant produced on average 3 lb. This information can be used when selecting how many of which variety to plant for the next season. If the goal is to have 30 lb. of tomatoes for the season evenly split between the two, the math would suggest planting three black krims and five big rainbow:

30 ÷ two varieties = 15 lb./variety 15 lb. ÷ 5 lb./black krim = three plants 15 lb. ÷ 3 lb./big rainbow = five plants

As your data

I recommend planting a couple more of each as a safety net since extra harvest tends to be a smaller issue than not having of days in each life stage, enough. As your data set increases over the set increases over the with the days spent in seasons, your estimates should improve as, seasons, your estimates summer-growth variable over time, the good years and bad years will should improve as, dependent on the gardener tend to cancel each other out. and the number of days in Outdoor gardeners can easily compare over time, the good years and the fall stage varying with growing seasons, spring and fall plantbad years will tend to cancel the cultivar. To account for ings, spring and fall harvests, and harvests each other out." these differences in season year to year. Indoors, the seasons are a length, a time factor can be bit more arbitrary. Summer and fall are included into calculations created with lighting timers and other to compare them.

To do this, environmental controls. A growing season simply take the planting date and subtract can be as short as a few weeks, or extended to several the harvest date to find the number of days between. months. Indoor gardeners tend to refer to the number

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

103

Gardening for geeks For example, if our black krim tomato plants were started May 23, 2012 and harvested September 9, 2012, the season would gardeners tend to refer to be 110 days (nine the number of days in each days in May, 30 in life stage, with the days spent June, 31 in July, 31 in August, and in summer-growth variable nine in Septemdependent on the gardener ber). Then, the and the number of days in the average yield of 5 fall stage varying lb. per plant could be divided by the with the cultivar."

110 days it took to grow them to show an average daily production rate of 0.045 lb. per day (5 lb. ÷ 110 days = 0.045 lb./day). If the big

Indoor

104

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

rainbow finished in 60 days, then the 3 lb. yield per plant would be divided by 60 to show a rate of 0.05 lb. per day. Since the black krim produced 0.045 lb. per day and the big rainbow produced 0.05 lb. per day, the big rainbow is a better producer—a fact that might not be apparent before calculations. Even though the amount harvested per big rainbow plant is less, it took less time until harvest and the next set could be stared sooner.

Individual plants with high production rates are particularly good candidates for saving seed. Although production should not be the only factor in selecting parent plants (preference and quality should also be taken in to account), quantity is often considered a desirable trait.

Once the base rate of production is calculated, it can be used in conjunction with other pieces of data for a variety of useful purposes: nutrients, growing media and other expenses can be taken into account. For example, if nutrient A comes in a 1 gal. bottle and is applied at a rate of 1 fl. oz. per gallon, then there are 128 gal. treatments in the bottle. So, if that bottle costs $20, then each treated gallon costs just under 16¢ (128/$20.00).

If nutrient B comes in a 4 gal. jug, and is applied at 8 fl. oz.

Gardening for geeks per gallon, then there are 64 treatments in a bottle. If the jug costs $40, then each treatment costs 62.5¢. When deciding which of these to use in the future, it will come down to whether nutrient B is worth an additional 46.5¢ per treated gallon. To find out for sure, test a few plants using each nutrient. Record the nutrient expenses used to grow both sets and calculate the differences production should not be in production rates at harvest.

In order to be worthwhile, the only factor in selecting the more expensive nutrient parent plants (preference and While should produce enough to quality should also be taken in only the cover the additional expense. most avid of gardening geeks will calculate to account), quantity is often The same can be calculated every plant in the garden, this type of inforfor electricity and lighting considered a desirable trait." mation can be valuable when comparing costs. Each additional 1,000 successes and determining the value of a W light adds 1 kWh in electrichange in the garden. By comparing procal expense, not to mention duction rates before and after, improvement can the cost of the equipment and bulb be compared to cost and future plans fine-tuned accordreplacements. If a change in gardening techingly. The benefits of homegrown vegetables include peace niques is shown to improve, only then consider keepof mind and knowledge of the conditions that the food was ing the change instead of returning to previous methods. grown under, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be grown Improvements to the garden should result in documentable with a nod to efficiency and expense concerns as well. improvements in production or quality to be cost-effective.

Although

106

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW all state garden spread (ashley)

NEW all state garden spread (ashley)

10 facts On… bugs

by Philip mcintosh

People often refer to germs as bugs, but they aren't Bugs are insects— ok, and maybe arachnids.

1 2 3 4

It is estimated that insects outweigh humans on Earth by a factor of about 300.

For every one of us, there are around 200 million insects.

There are roughly a million different described insect species.

Entomologists (scientists who study insects) are pretty sure the true number of species is actually double what we currently know.

As such, insects could account for somewhere between 10 and 50% of all the species on Earth.

5 6

Arachnids—which include mites, ticks, chiggers, spiders and scorpions—are not as diverse as the insects, but there are still hundreds of thousands of species.

7

Of all the arachnids out there, only mites (specifically, spider mites) are a threat to farmers’ crops since all other arachnids are predators.

8 9 10 110

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

There are a dozen or so common insect pests in greenhouses, but there are usually also beneficial insects or arachnids available to counteract each one using integrated pest management (IPM).

Even though they can be very small, insects can be seen and identified (eventually).

Insects can damage plants by feeding on them, but an even greater worry is their ability to transmit and spread diseases throughout a crop. Once a virus is introduced, there is really no effective treatment for that.

Green Feat AVANT-GARDENING

Passion THE

FLOWER:

A PERFECT TROPICAL VINE FOR GROWING INDOORS

by Heather Rhoades

What better way to create the feeling of an indoor jungle than introducing the perfect tropical vine. Both exotic looking and easy to care for, the Passion flower is one of the most interesting flowering vines around…

The Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) is a beautiful tropical-looking vine, although it is not native to tropical regions. Also known as the Maypop because it pops out of the ground in May, this vine is actually native to the southeastern United States., where it can be seen growing along roadsides, open fields and in some wooded areas. The Passion flower was named by early missionaries in the early 1500s who believed parts of the plant symbolized the crucifixion of Christ. For instance, the flower’s five petals and five petal-like sepals were said to represent the 10 apostles who remained faithful to Jesus throughout the Passion.

The Passion flower creates a beautiful tropical setting and is easily grown indoors. This tropical-like vine prefers indoor temperatures that remain between 55 to 65°F, but will tolerate slightly cooler conditions during winter months.

Potted plants can also be placed outside in a warm sheltered spot during the summer if desired. However, while it enjoys a lot of light, avoid any direct sun. Keep the passion 112

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

flower vine watered regularly while the plant is actively growing and be sure to provide it with adequate drainage. Once fall gets closer, you can allow the Passion flower to dry out some—but not completely—between watering intervals. This plant also appreciates good ventilation when grown indoors.

Passion flower plants generally begin blooming in July and continue until frost if outside, and longer if inside.

The plant has unique and beautiful purplish-blue flowers.

There are numerous species of Passiflora in other colors as well, such as yellow, and all species produce edible fruits with a diameter of 0.5 to 6 in. These fruits also vary with shape (round to oblong) and color (yellow to purple) depending on the species. The vines can also grow up to 15 ft. in a season, so be sure to provide a trellis or other suitable support system for this vine.

If you’re looking for something different to add an exotic presence to your home, look no further. The Passion flower is certainly a good choice. It’s relatively carefree, quite exquisite in appearance and filled with a rich history.

"Passion flower plants generally begin blooming in July and continue until frost if outside, and longer if inside."

Article reprinted from Gardening Know How (gardeningknowhow.com)

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

113

Homegrown

GROCERIES: AN ARGUMENT FOR INDOOR FOOD PRODUCTION

by Eric Hopper

There are a few reasons why growing one’s own food is becoming more of a necessity; however, not many have embraced the practice. Still, a new willingness to try self-reliant methods, a strengthened communal knowledge and advancements in technology are all redefining indoor food production.

114

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

M+M Worldwide FP (ashley)

homegrown groceries For most hobbyist indoor horticulturalists, producing food in their indoor garden is little more than a novelty. They do it more for the love of their hobby than the practicality of producing food indoors. Generally speaking, it is less expensive to purchase food products at a grocery store than produce the equivalent product in an indoor garden.

However, combine recent advancements in technology with the potential 40% increase in the cost of food over the next 10 years, and the practicality of home indoor food production is becoming a viable alternative. The

116

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

advantages of home food production go beyond just financial incentives. Producing one’s own food adds a heightened sense of security because it gives the food consumer control over every variable in the production of his or her food. With genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on the rise and the ever-expanding questionable practices among our food producers, growing your own food becomes a decision based on one’s morals as much as one’s finances.

Increaserin food costs

One thing that consumers are noticing when they visit their local grocery store or farmers’ market is the increased cost of quality produce. This phenomenon has multiple contributing factors, all of which affect the cost of food for consumers.

Combine

recent advancements in technology with the potential 40% increase in the cost of food over the next 10 years, and the practicality of home indoor food production is becoming a viable alternative."

Weather

Since the vast majority of food products are still grown outdoors, weather directly affects the production of food and, therefore, supply and cost. There are also a variety of foods that can only be produced seasonally and need to be shipped in during the off-season, which increases cost.

Floods, droughts, shortened growing seasons and disrupted pollination processes all affect crop productivity and the cost for consumers.

Production costs

As our fuel, energy and labor costs continue to rise, so does the overall cost of food production. Many foods travel fairly long distances before reaching the end consumer. The longer the distance traveled, the more it costs to ship the product. This results in an increase in the price of food that is directly related to the increase in fuel costs, and this increased cost is passed on to the end consumer. This is why— if you are not going to grow your own food—you should, at the very least, try to purchase locally grown food to reduce the cost of shipping.

Supply and demand

Besides weather and production costs (both of which affect supply), one of the largest contributing factors to the increase in food costs is the increase in demand. Developing nations with booming populations have a hunger for particular foods. This increase in demand pushes up the price of food worldwide, especially when the supply of the particular product has not increased.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

117

homegrown groceries

Economic inflation/depreciation

As a nation’s currency value inflates or depreciates, the cost of food is relatively affected. An increase in the cost of food occurs when a nation’s average income does not increase at the same rate as the inflation of the currency.

Questionable food production practices The rising cost of food is the most prevalent reason consumers are looking into alternative sources of food; however, it isn’t the only one.

Personal ethics and higher moral standards are other reasons consumers are looking elsewhere for their food products.

A few different issues regarding the production of the food we consume have come into the spotlight. Some of the conventional methods being used by agriculturalists are linked to the pollution of soils, water ways and livestock. There is also a growing concern regarding the safety and stability of the GMO products

118

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Floods, droughts, shortened

growing seasons and disrupted pollination processes all affect crop productivity and the cost for consumers."

that are already in our food industry. While the farmers and government officials sort out the mess, we consumers are left in a state of suspended isolation, not knowing for certain if the foods we eat are 100% safe or even 100% food.

As an alternative, a consumer might choose to produce as much of their own food as possible. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with enough outdoor space for a flourishing vegetable garden. Most people, however, do have a window or small space they could dedicate to an indoor garden. Indeed, consumers are turning toward hydroponic and other automated growing systems, which have the potential to maximize efficiency in their indoor space.

Technological advancements

Plants are intricate beings whose cultivation requires a multifaceted approach. Lighting, ventilation, atmospheric control, hydroponic systems and nutrient chemistry are all contributing factors to the success of an indoor garden, and each one is a science in its own right. In the last 10 years, all of these factors have undergone major technological advancements that, individually, can boost the efficiency of an indoor garden. Collectively, these advancements are giving an increased justification to indoor home food production.

Lighting

There have been many recent advancement in the efficiency of lighting. For HID lighting, digital ballasts combined with specifically designed HID bulbs have boosted light output while heightening energy efficiency. In some cases, energy efficiency has increased by up to 15%. Other new lighting technologies like LEDs, induction fluorescents and plasma fixtures, are providing even more energy-efficient options to the consumer. Some of these new technologies are able to increase efficiency up to 40% compared to standard lighting fixtures. Each lighting technology advancement that reduces energy consumption brings the overall cost of production down and the practicality of home food production up.

We consumers

are left in a state of suspended isolation, not knowing for certain if the foods we eat are 100% safe or even 100% food."

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

119

homegrown groceries

Ventilation and atmospheric control

There has been much advancement in ventilation and atmospheric control that directly affects the cost of production in an indoor garden. Air- and water-cooled reflectors, high-efficiency fans and mini-split high-efficiency air conditioning units have all played a role in reducing energy consumption in an indoor garden. Automated atmospheric controllers offer an even more efficient option for the indoor horticulturalist. There has also been an increase in knowledge surrounding plant physiology, specifically in regard to supplementing CO2. State-of-the-art ventilation and atmospheric equipment, teamed with the advanced knowledge of CO2 supplementation, has streamlined this particular aspect of indoor horticulture and significantly increased efficiency and reduced the cost of production.

Hydroponic systems

Advancements in existing hydroponic systems, combined with innovative, newly developed systems, have played a large role in increasing production within an indoor garden. Aeroponic, aquaponic, fog-type and undercurrent systems have all been recently introduced to the home hydroponic gardener and all have the potential to boost indoor food production. High-performance hydroponic systems reduce water waste, lower energy consumption and maximize nutrient uptake. All of this equates to faster growth and larger yields while maintaining energy efficiency.

120

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Nutrient chemistry

Just as our technological advancements in the equipment used to grow the plants have played a role in increasing efficiency, so has our knowledge and innovative methods in regard to nutrient chemistry. Our understanding of plant physiology is in a constant state of evolution and, as we gain more knowledge of chemical compounds and how they affect plant functions, our nutrient regiments become more beneficial. Thirty years ago, we thought N-P-K was all that was necessary for plant growth. Now we have discovered over 15 essential elements, multiple beneficial elements and an array of enzymes, hormones, vitamins and amino acids that all affect the growth of plants. As our nutrient regiments become more fine-tuned for particular crops and their specific stages of growth, we increase the effectiveness of our feeding programs and reduce cost of production.

Personal ethics and higher

moral standards are other reasons consumers are looking elsewhere for their food products."

Increased information

Another pivotal factor pertaining to the practicality of indoor food production is the access to information. Just a few years ago, it was very difficult for growers to find information on lighting, ventilation, DIY hydroponic equipment, etc. Now, the increasing number of indoor horticultural reference books and magazines, along with the Internet, makes information readily accessible for everyone. Growers can share their own trials and tribulations with each other and in a collaborative effort, increase their knowledge in home food production. This increase in accessible information plays as vital a role in maximizing efficiency in an indoor garden as the technological advancements in gardening equipment.

So, whether your decision is based on financial reasons or a feeling of moral obligation, producing some or all of your own food at home is becoming a realistic option for many people. Our technologies in indoor horticulture are advancing as fast as the plants that are being grown, and as efficiency increases, the cost to produce food decreases. Even city folk are turning to indoor home gardens to, at the very least, supplement some of the produce they would normally purchase—even planting an herb garden in the kitchen window is an admirable step toward self-sufficiency. Our knowledge and willingness to share it increases an attitude of self-reliance that undermines the potential dangers inherent in our current conventional food production methods.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

121

Green thumb gardening

101:

by Susan Eitel

Hydroponic Gardeners’ Best Friends

As we make our gardens more pleasing to ourselves, we are also making them more appetizing to a stream of hungry pests. So, what is a gardener to do?

In a word: ladybugs.

There is nothing quite as exhilarating as tending a garden. You get to witness your physical, financial and emotional investment flourish beyond expectation. However, as we make our gardens more pleasing to ourselves, we in turn make them more appetizing to a seemingly endless parade of pests. Insects see our hard work as their free lunch. Who can blame them?

A healthy garden is nature’s dinner bell. Still, there is nothing quite as deflating as witnessing you investment become withered and brown, decimated by those dream-sucking insects.

What is a gardener to do? Well, not all insects are created equal in the garden, and ladybugs are the answer to that question.

A ladybug is not a bug at all. It is a beetle, which is why you will sometimes encounter the names lady beetle and ladybird beetle. Another term that you

122

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

will hear them called is beneficial insect. A beneficial insect describes any number of different bugs or beetles that feed upon other insects. Beneficials feast only upon the pest insects that do much of the harm to our gardens while leaving the plants untouched for the gardener. In other words, when nature gave us lemons in the form of pests, she also gave us lemonade in the form of ladybugs.

Larvae look like spiny alligators. They feed on pests until pupation.

A rising interest in organic gardening, as well as increasing pressures to ban chemical controls, is leading more gardeners away from using pesticides as the lone remedy for insect damage. Ladybugs are a general predator and will eat pretty much any soft-bodied prey that crosses their path—spider mites, thrips, white flies, mealy bugs, scale and the eggs of all these predators are common sources of food. They especially like aphids and can consume thousands of these pests per week. It is because of these attributes that breeding ladybugs in indoor and outdoor gardens has become quite popular.

It’s worthwhile to learn a bit about the ladybug in order to better understand its role in pest management. There are over 500 different types of ladybugs, but the variety used for indoor gardens is the Hippodamia convergens.

There are four stages of metamorphosis for this beetle: egg, larva, pupa and adult. Female adults can each lay up to 1,000 white or yellow eggs in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Eggs hatch within four days and start eating immediately. Larvae are black and orange like their adult versions, although they resemble spiny alligators at this stage. The larvae stay on the plant, feeding on pests until pupation. Three to 12 days after they pupate, an adult emerges to start the cycle all over again. Knowing and recognizing these stages is necessary if you hope to use beneficials to their best advantage.

Native to North America, the majority of garden beetles are from insectaries (or, bug laboratories). Ladybugs harvested from the wild can carry parasites or disease and should be avoided, so check with your supplier to make sure any beneficial insect you purchase is indigenous to your area and government approved.

Ladybugs can be an inexpensive form of pest control.

Prices vary between suppliers, but in many cases, beneficial insects can be less expensive than pesticides in both commercial and non-commercial applications. A thousand beetles would be enough to effectively treat an area of approximately 550 sq. ft.

Indoor breeding of beneficial insects requires a constant food source both before and after their natural prey has been exhausted. Beneficial insect food is available to provide your ladybugs with that year-round supply. The food—generally a powdered pollen, nectar and protein mixture that is combined with water at the time of application—is capable of sustaining beetles at a healthy vigor until their natural prey becomes available. The powder inexpensive and it is easily stored due to a long shelf-life.

Without question ladybugs can be an asset to the gardener and the garden. Like most tools, however, improper use can offer poor results. Always remember: there are

A thousand beetles is enough to treat 550 sq. ft.

no silver-bullets. Gardening relies as much on good science as it does good craftsmanship. It is the complexities of natural systems that make gardens possible and pest management challenging, but we can’t have one without the other.

Susan Eitel has a degree in landscape horticulture from Humber College in Toronto. She has worked in the hydroponics industry for more than 25 years, which has proved invaluable over the years.

Susan has always been interested in beneficial insects and integrated pest management. She currently lives in the Niagara area with her beloved husband and dog.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

123

HOW WELL

you

are

by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr.

Selecting disease- and insect-resistant plants is a primary example of passive procedures for maintaining a garden free of disease organisms and insect infestations.

However, sometimes passive is not an option; you have to be prepared for what might come…

PREPARED?

G N I L L O R T N O C D N A G N I Y F I T S T IDEN C E S N I D N A S M S I N A G R O E S A E S I D

124

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

how well are you prepared?

AN

TIN

E

In most cropping systems, disease organisms and insects are always present, waiting for those conditions favoring their multiplication that can lead to plant invasion. One of the major means of preventing an infestation is to control those conditions favoring multiplication and establishing a barrier that will prevent invasion.

For those growing in enclosed environments, the first priority is to effectively sterilize the enclosure and then maintain that sterile integrity by keeping disease organisms and insects out. Screening and sanitizing entrances is a means for keeping disease organisms and insects out of a growing chamber. Also, since clothing and shoes can be a means of carrying disease organisms and insects from place to place and into an enclosed chamber, they too need to be kept clean or be sterilized. Equally important is to establish and maintain those conditions within the enclosure that will prevent insect and disease growth just in case either does enter. Also, be prepared to combat an infestation if it occurs by being aware of what diseases and insects are in the area and associated with the plant species you’re growing. As such, periodically scouting the growing crop (possibly by someone who does this as a profession, such as a trained and experienced plant pathologist or entomologist) is essential.

If infestations do occur, there are two important requirements needed to effectively control them. First is proper identification of the invader (this might require prompt professional assistance as even the most experienced grower can easily make mistakes). Second, as mentioned above, is being prepared to quickly and effectively deal with the invasion.

For disease control, keeping the plant healthy—including maintaining nutrient elements at sufficient levels—is an effective means of control. For example, if plants become too high in nitrogen (N) or have succulent

QU AR

"One of the major means of preventing an infestation is to control those conditions favoring multiplication and establishing a barrier that will prevent invasion."

126

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

RA

NT

IN

E

how well are you prepared? foliage are easily susceptible to disease and insect invasion.

Also, high silicon (Si) content in plant foliage has been found to reduce the ability of hypha to penetrate plant cells (for those growing plants hydroponically, including a soluble source of silicon in the applied nutrient solution formulation is essential in order to utilize this capability).

"For disease control, keeping the plant healthy—including maintaining nutrient elements at sufficient levels—is an effective means of control."

Keep in mind, however, that a nutrient solution is an ideal matrix for disease organisms—the species and numbers of which depending on temperature, degree of aeration, and biological and elemental content. For example, those who choose to use nutrient solution formulations containing biological substances are more likely to have root disease infestations than nutrient solutions without added biologicals, as some of these substances can be a potential food source for fungi and bacteria. As such, recovered nutrient solution requires filtering to remove suspended organic materials, and then sterilization before being recirculated. Sterilization can be by heating, ultraviolet radiation exposure, or treatment with ozone (O3).

The method of disease control is determined by the type of organism (whether a virus, fungus or bacteria). Viruses are best controlled by the use of resistant plants or by control of the delivery vector, which is frequently an insect. For the control of fungi and bacteria, most growers prefer the use of non-chemical means. There are a number of effective natural foliage-applied products whose effectiveness are determined by method, frequency of application and plant leaf characteristics. However, not all diseases can be effectively controlled using such biological materials; therefore, some plants require the use of foliar-applied inorganic chemicals or fogging the surrounding environment with a control chemical.

Then there are some diseases that suddenly “appear” when the

128

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

R A U Q

N A

I T

I

ushio fp

E N

how well are you prepared?

AR QU

R A QU

AN

TIN

N A AR

E N TI

E plant reaches a certain growth stage. Plants seem more venerable to attack when under stress, be it due to improper nutrition, low or high light radiation conditions, moisture stress or fruit setting. For example: powdery mildew can materialize on cucumber leaves when the plants began to set fruit. This same disease sometimes appears when the plants are magnesium (Mg) deficient.

For insect control, the use of predator insects—referred to by some as beneficials—can be an effective control procedure. This method requires the predator to be in place prior to invasion with an adequate food supply in order to survive in sufficient numbers to be effective. However, not all insects have a corresponding predator. In this case, chemical or biological control procedures applied at the most venerable stage of their life cycle is effective.

There might be times when the cost and effectiveness of a control treatment might not be justified. It all depends on the extent of damage to the plant in terms of appearance and reduced product yield in comparison to the cost for the chemical, the equipment required for application, and the time and salary paid to the applicator.

For those with concerns regarding ecological balance, some diseases and insects can be a factor in the unbalancing of an ecosystem since they create a condition more damaging to the plant and its surrounding environment if left untreated.

Also, some control treatments are based on the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) system of pest control, which defines what cultural, chemical and non-chemical procedures are acceptable within the Best Management Practice (BMP) concepts. IMP programs have been implemented for application to a number of cropping systems, both in the field and greenhouse, by setting action thresholds, monitoring and identifying pests, preventing pests from becoming a threat and evaluating the proper control method for both effectiveness and risk.

130

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

T N RA

E

Can Mineral Nutrition

Plant Disease?

by Guy Sela

The use of chemicals on plants raises environmental and food safety concerns, as well as creates economical consequences. The good ne ws is that, when it comes to plant disease, there are more natural and proactive measures able to be taken. One of these is keeping up on mineral nutrition.

132

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Hannah Instruments (Kelsey)

can mineral nutrition affect plant disease?

Plant diseases are a major limiting factor in agricultural production. Most growers use high amounts of chemicals to control plant diseases, but they are unaware that mineral nutrition has an important role in disease control. Essential plant nutrients influence the health of plants and their susceptibility to disease.

In other words, plants suffering a nutrient stress will be more susceptible to diseases, while adequate crop nutrition makes plants more tolerant of or resistant to disease. (Note that the resistance of plants to diseases is mainly related to genetics, but the ability of the plant to express its genetic resistance to a particular disease is affected by mineral nutrition.)

Some nutrients have a greater impact on plant diseases than others. However, it should be noted that a particular nutrient could have opposite impacts on different diseases and in different environments—for example, the same nutrient might decrease the incidence of one disease, but increase the incidence of others. Soil pH, nitrogen forms and the availability of nutrients also play a major role in disease management. Nutrient manipulation can be achieved directly by applying adequate fertilizers, or indirectly through the use of different cultural practices, such as liming for pH adjustment, irrigation, organic amendments, tillage, etc.

How can mineral nutrition prevent plant disease?

Basically, all diseases have a cycle of three to five parts, and any disease can be prevented or suppressed if that cycle is interrupted. Mineral nutrition can affect two primary

"the resistance of plants to diseases is mainly related to genetics, but the ability of the plant to express its genetic resistance to a particular disease is affected by mineral nutrition."

One Dip & Your an Expert in Cloning with Olivia’s Cloning Solution and Cloning Gel.

www.OliviasSolutions.com

134

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW platinium FP (ashley)

can mineral nutrition affect plant disease? resistance mechanisms: first, the formation of mechanical barriers (e.g., thickness of cell walls), and secondly, the synthesis of natural defence compounds (e.g., antioxidants, phytoalexins and flavonoids).

Different pathogens have different infection mechanisms.

Fungi penetrate surface cells (the epidermis) by passing between or through the cells. The cell walls present a physical resistance to the fungus and stronger cell walls can prevent the infection. Certain nutrients, like calcium, play a major role in the ability of the plant to develop stronger cell walls and tissues. Mineral nutrition also affects the production of antifungal compounds in plants. However, when some nutrients are below a certain level, plants release compounds that contain higher amounts of sugars and amino acids, thus stimulating the establishment of the fungus.

Bacteria invade the plant tissue through wounds, sucking insects and through the stomata. Then they spread within the intercellular spaces, releasing enzymes that dissolve the plant tissue. The ability of bacteria to spread within the plant tissues depends on the strength of the internal cells, which is greatly affected by mineral nutrition. Calcium is known in its ability to inhibit such enzymes.

Another mechanism in which bacteria spread within the plant is in the xylem (the vessels that transport water in the plant). The bacteria forms slime within the vessels, which blocks them and results in stems and leaves wilting and dying. Certain plant nutrients suppress the ability of bacteria to form this slime.

Viruses are transmitted to plants by sucking insects and fungi. It was found that silicon—although not a plant nutrient—inhibits the feeding ability of some sucking pests like aphids, thus reducing viral infection.

Cultural practices and soil condition Many plant diseases are categorized as high-pH diseases or low-pH diseases, highammonium or high-nitrate types, high- or low-moisture varietals, etc. Thus, cultural conditions that influence the form of nitrogen also affect

soil pH and, therefore, disease development. For example, verticillium wilt of vegetables, phymatotrichum root rot of cotton and thielaviopsis root rot of tobacco are all associated with alkaline soils. Another example, scab is reduced in lower soil pH. Sulfur and ammonium are used to decrease soil pH and reduce scab, while calcium, potassium and nitrate might increase scab.

"The ability of bacteria to

spread within the plant tissues depends on the strength of the internal cells, which is greatly affected by mineral nutrition."

Same nutrient, different effect Different oxidation forms of the same nutrient often have opposing effects on plant disease. This is true mainly for nitrogen, sulfur, manganese and iron. For example, nitrate and ammonium nitrogen forms have different metabolic pathways. Therefore, they have different effects on plant disease.

Additional examples EXCESS NITROGEN Adequate nitrogen levels are necessary for disease resistance. However, excess nitrogen could promote favorable conditions to plant disease. Reasons for this include: • Excess nitrogen promotes thinner and weaker cell walls.

• Increased plant density creates high humidity and low light conditions.

• Excess nitrogen delays maturity of plant tissues and, therefore, increases the risk of disease infection and development.

• An unbalanced sodium–potassium ratio affects both yield and disease resistance.

POTASSIUM AND POTASSIUM-CALCIUM RATIO Potassium is an important nutrient in plant disease prevention, as it is involved in many cellular processes that influence disease severity. It was also found effective in the prevention of bacteria, fungi and nematodes. However, excess potassium and a high potassium–calcium ratio might result in calcium deficiency and reduced resistance to diseases.

Mineral nutrition and cultural practices that affect it play an important role in the prevention of plant disease and in the resistance of plants to diseases. Although diseases cannot be totally eliminated by any particular nutrient (growers must also use proper fertilizer programs based on soil tests, plant analysis and disease monitoring), balanced plant nutrition can help growers minimize chemical use, increase productivity and reduce the severity of disease.

136

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW Canadian Xpress FP (ashley)

beginner's corner

STRONG PLANTS PUMP IRON Facts About Iron Nutrition in Plants

by David Kessler

Iron is required for photosynthesis and respiration, as well as the production of enzymes. That’s why all growers should be able to spot iron deficiency—a common, but potentially destructive, ailment—in plants quickly. Here, David Kessler shows us how...

I have been growing for decades and at a certain point, I gained the ability to diagnose nutrient deficiencies with a quick glance. Iron deficiency is quite easy to recognize and is fairly common, making it a problem any gardener should be able to diagnose. A sign that a plant might be suffering from an iron deficiency is interveinal chlorosis—or, yellowing of young leaves in between the veins. This is often accompanied by necrotic spotting (dead brown spots on the affected leaves). Iron is an immobile element within plants, meaning the signs of iron deficiency will first appear at the top of the plant or on the newest, youngest growth. Iron deficiency often occurs when the pH of the growing medium or hydroponic solution is above 7.0 and thereby alkaline.

138

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Iron is never used by itself as a component of fertilizers due 5.5, any form of iron (including iron sulfate) will suffice for supplying iron to the plant. As the pH climbs to to its reactive nature. The least expensive way to correct iron greater than 6.0, less than half of the iron from FeEDTA deficiency is with the compound iron sulfate, but this is also is available to your plants. If the pH of the least effective method of deliverthe media or fertilizer solution continues ing iron to plants. Instead, iron is to increase to levels above 7.0, only the most commonly used in a chelated iron from the chelate FeEDDHA remains form. Chelation is a natural process completely available. that prevents nutrients from interacting and precipitating out of a soluWhen choosing an iron supplement, tion (thus becoming unavailable for make sure to check the manufacturer’s lathe plants to use). There are three bel of the fertilizer you use for the source IS QUITE EASY TO different chelates that are generally of iron. Consider your pH range and make RECOGNIZE AND IS FAIRLY used in horticulture: EDTA, DTPA sure it will provide the necessary iron and EDDHA. The most widely used in your particular growing conditions.

COMMON, MAKING IT A chelate is EDTA because it is the least I always recommend that soil and soilPROBLEM ANY GARDENER expensive—not because it is the best. less growers use a fertilizer with the iron chelate FeDTPA because it will provide When it comes to iron suppleSHOULD BE ABLE TO the necessary iron that the plants require mentation, the choice of iron DIAGNOSE." when the pH of the irrigation solution is chelate used is very important. The set to the ideal 6.3 to 6.6 range. three common forms (FeEDTA, FeDTPA and FeEDDHA) differ in their David Kessler heads research and development at Atlantis ability to remain available as the pH of the media Hydroponics and writes for their popular blog. David has over two or hydroponic solution increases. Research has demdecades of experience and multiple degrees from the State University onstrated significant differences in the ability of iron of New York. He’s also an accredited judge for the American Orchid compounds and chelates supplying the necessary iron Society and travels the world judging orchid events. Follow his blog at atlantishydroponics.wordpress.com at elevated pH levels. In between the pH range of 4.0 to

IRON

DEFICIENCY

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

139

With�a�Little�Help From�Your�(Many)�Friends�

Beneficial�Microbe�Populations 3 to 3.5 pages Creating in�the�Indoor�Garden and Maintaining Beneficial Millions�of�beneficial�microbes� Microbe Populations in live�in�and�around�your�plants the Indoorroots�and�root�zone�Even� Garden Matt though�you�can ' t�see� them,�these�little�guys� LeBannister 4-Sep-12 Yes can�make�or�break� your�garden .

1,373 words

by�Matt�LeBanister

140

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

"Beneficial microbes exist in nature, but they will not be present in adequate numbers in your indoor garden unless you help introduce and maintain sufficient populations."

There are so many factors to keep track of when gardening indoors. We must make sure the lights are the proper strength, color and distance from the foliage; the leaves are healthy, green and free of harmful insects; and the nutrient solution being fed to the plants is pH balanced, not too strong or too weak, and designed for their specific stage of growth. It is no wonder that we tend to focus on the things we can see, generally the part of the plant above ground, when gardening indoors. We can’t help but occasionally neglect the vital part of the plant that is below the surface: the roots and the root zone.

Down there is a whole world of microbes, many of which have a symbiotic relationship with your plants. This symbiotic relationship is important to maintain in order for your plants to be healthy and strong, especially if you are using organic nutrients and trying to go pesticide free. These beneficial bacteria and fungi break down nutrients, aerate soil and fend off disease. They can make the difference between an OK harvest and a stellar one. Beneficial microbes exist in nature, but they will not be present in adequate numbers in your indoor garden unless you help introduce and maintain sufficient populations. (Think of this process in comparison to baking bread: you could leave the dough out in the open and hope the right type of yeast will land on your dough, or you could introduce bread yeast to the equation and be certain of the outcome.)

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

141

with a little help from your (many) friends

Beneficial bacteria and protozoa

which live on or partially within plant roots and share their sap with the plants; and ecto-mycorrhizae, which live entirely outside the roots of the plant they share their symbiotic relationship with.

There are numerous advantages to gardening with beneficial fungi. Mycorrhizae protect plants from harmful bacteria, fungi and pathogens by producing antibiotics. In fact, penicillin was derived from common bread mold. Beneficial fungi also create pathways in the soil and soilless medium that brings water and nutrients to the plants. Beneficial fungi works in conjunction with beneficial bacteria to break down organic matter and turn it to plant-available nutrients. Also, like beneficial bacteria, mycorrhizae help convert nonsoluble phosphates that are present in the soil into a more plant available form.

Beneficial bacteria and protozoa are very important to your plants overall health, especially when gardening using organic methods in soil or soilless potting mixes. One benefit is the beneficial bacteria eat exudates, simple sugars, carbons and carbohydrates that the plant excretes through its roots (these sugars can also be added to the soil in the form of carbo/ sugary supplements, molasses or humic acid in order to increase available food for these bacteria).

The beneficial bacteria are then eaten by beneficial protozoa, single-cell organisms that then excrete plantavailable nutrients.

Beneficial bacteria also help break down organic matter.

This is extremely important when gardening using organic nutrients since most organic nutrients need to be diThere are a few things that should be gested by bacteria and fungi before avoided if your want to keep the populathe nutrients can become availtions of beneficial microbes healthy able to the plants. If the plants beneficial bacteria and strong. are slow-growing houseplants,

to your soil and then there is no rush; but if Chemical fertilizers will not provide soilless mixes can you are gardening indoors to any nourishment to the microbes. harvest, then time is money. greatly accelerate Chemical fertilizers are made up The longer it takes before you of salts, and salts pull the water plants’ ability to can harvest, the more you have out of the microbes, either killing to spend on electricity, replaceabsorb and convert them or causing them to go into a ment light bulbs, nutrients, dormant state. nutrients into what etc. Adding beneficial bacteria they need to grow." to your soil and soilless mixes can Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) should not be greatly accelerate plants’ ability to used in conjunction with beneficial miabsorb and convert nutrients into what crobes. Hydrogen peroxide is used for various they need to grow. purposes in gardening. H2O2 adds oxygen to water, Beneficial bacteria can also help condition lower algae levels and can help suppress diseases and aerate soil, and allow for better drainwithin plants. It helps sterilize water and growing age. Another benefit of beneficial bactemedium to kill harmful microbes, but it will also ria is their ability to covert non-soluble kill the good biology. phosphates (calcium phosphate) into a type plants can use. Some beneficial Pesticides get sprayed onto leaves to kill bacteria also have the ability to break harmful insects, but they also kill beneficial down toxins (oil-based chemicals, microbes that are present on the leaves. If the pesticides, etc.) present in the soil pesticides are washed into the medium, they or soilless mix, turning it into will kill any beneficial microbes in the soil or plant food, air and water. soilless potting mix.

Adding

Beneficial fungi Beneficial fungi, or mycorrhizae, are fungi that have a symbiotic relationship with plants. There are two classifications of mycorrhizae: endo-mycorrhizae, 142

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Things to avoid

Fungicides will destroy harmful bacteria, as well as any beneficial fungi.

Over-tilling and compaction can decimate beneficial microbe populations since microbes need air to survive.

with a little help from your (many) friends

Cultivate beneficial microbes using actively aerated compost tea (AACT) The difference between compost tea and AACT is that with AACT both the nutrient and microbe populations have been extracted. Creating your own AACT and adding billions of beneficial microbes to your garden can be an easy process once understood. Ideally, you would first make some compost tea using homemade compost that has been fermenting for at least a year. Take your compost and wrap it in cheesecloth or a stocking to filter out large bits from the mix. The microbe-rich compost must then soak in chlorine-free water for three to 14 days in a relatively warm space. During this time, you must aerate the compost tea with an aquarium air pump and air stone. By aerating the water, you will kill off the harmful bacteria while promoting the oxygen-loving beneficial microbe populations.

While the solution aerates and soaks, you must also add other ingredients—such as store-bought sugary supplements or molasses, kelp meal or extract, worm castings, humic acid, guano and other organic nutrients—that will help feed and boost the populations of the good biology.

After soaking and aerating, the AACT is ready to be used.

It should be applied every one to two weeks onto growing medium and foliar sprayed onto leaves to keep beneficial microbe levels high where it is needed most (the leaves and root zone).

If you don’t have year-old compost just lying around— most of us who are raising fast-growing plants indoors don’t—there is another way to cultivate beneficial microbes using AACT. Take the ingredients you would add to a basic compost tea, such as bird or bat guano, kelp, fish emulsion, worm castings, coffee grinds, etc., and follow the process.

To make sure the beneficial microbes make it into the mix, add some topsoil into your compost tea. Dig down 2 to 4 in. below the surface of the soil. This layer of soil will have many beneficial microbes, which will then multiply as the AACT is made. Keep in mind that the concentrations of different compost teas vary, so you might have to dilute and adjust over time.

Now that there are beneficial microbes present in your soil or soilless medium, it is up to you to maintain their populations. The best way to accomplish this is to top-dress your plants with compost, mulch and feed them organic nutri-

"By aerating the water, you will kill off the harmful bacteria while promoting the oxygen-loving beneficial microbe populations." ents. Every so often, adding molasses or a store-bought sugary supplement will boost beneficial microbe populations.

And, of course, watering and foliar feeding your plants with your AACT will ensure there are always sufficient levels of beneficial microbes present to break down organics, prevent disease, and aerate and condition soil. With the help of billions of microscopic friends, your plants can reach their potential and stay healthy and strong.

144

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

growing for health

To some of us, our gardens are an extension of our families; they’re our children who we love and nurture in order to help them thrive and reach their potentials. However, one method of enhancing plant growth that is often overlooked by gardeners is foliar feeding. This involves spraying the leaves of plants with certain diluted nutrients and biostimulants, which the plants then absorb through their leaves and distribute throughout their vital systems.

Using foliar sprays to supplement your feeding regimen will improve growth of leaves and flowers, increase

the number of sites, and boost the plants resistance to disease and insect infestations.

One of the best foliar applied nutrients is kelp and seaweed extract. Seaweed and kelp are harvested directly from the ocean or from the beach where it has washed up on shore. Seaweed and kelp extracts are potent fertilizers and biostimulants as they are rich in nitrogen, potash, a variety of trace elements, vitamins, amino acids and plant growth hormones. Kelp and seaweed extracts are also comUsing foliar sprays pletely biodegradable to supplement your feeding and easily assimilatregimen will improve growth ed by plants. They facilitate nutrient of leaves and flowers, uptake and help increase the number of plants deal with sites and boost the plants stresses created by

resistance to disease and insect infestations."

146

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

transplanting and insect infestations. Kelp and seaweed extracts also contain natural antibiotic properties that can aid in suppressing harmful bacteria and fungi.

Another fantastic foliar spray is pine tree oil or pine tree extract, which is 100% water soluble and 100% biodegradable. Although it is high in nitrogen, pine tree oil is safe to use and will not burn your leaves.

This means it can be applied frequently without harmful repercussions; in fact, regular foliar application will promote vegetative growth, increase yields and allow the plants to withstand temperature fluctuations. It will increase your plant’s resistance to disease and help suppress powdery mildew and mite infestations. Pine tree oil and pine tree extract, which is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, contains powerful disinfectant properties.

There is also evidence that pine tree oil can increase your yield.

Another great nutrient that can be applied to plants via a foliar spray is fulvic acid. It is a byproduct of humic acid that is extracted from well-decom-

posed, organic material. Often referred to as gold due to its golden color, fulvic acid increases the number flower sites, catalyzes enzyme reactions and strengthens the plant’s immunity and resistance to disease and pests. It also chelates nutrients and vitamins, increasing the plant’s ability to efficiently absorb them and help correct deficiencies.

Fulvic acid is also beneficial to a human diet as it boosts the immune system and aids in the absorption of vitamins and minerals from our food.

Fulvic acid is also beneficial to a human diet as it boosts the immune system and aids in the absorption of vitamins and minerals from our food."

There are many different nutrients and supplements that can be applied to plants as foliar spray. Each has the unique ability to stimulate vegetative plant growth; enhance the plants ability to absorb nutrients, vitamins and minerals; increase the plant’s yield and improve plants ability to resist disease and pests. For more information and to find out which product is best for you, visit your local knowledgeable hydroponic or greenhouse supplier.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

147

148

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

CO2 Enrichment for Indoor Gardening

"Lack of air movement causes CO2 that would be used by plants to become unavailable due to its distance from the leaf (usually down low in the growing area)."

150

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Let us first look at some basics. Photosynthesis is the process by which plant leaves make carbohydrates.

Specifically, sunlight, CO2 and water are converted into carbohydrates and oxygen (O2) by the action of chlorophyll in the plant’s chloroplasts.

When plants are able to maximize the process of photosynthesis, the result is larger plants with larger yields. However, plants growing indoors under artificial light often lack enough CO2 to efficiently photosynthesize. Plants can quickly use up the available CO2 and convert it to O2. When O2 levels rise too high, stomata on the leaf's surface close and plant growth virtually stops. Growing areas that have limited or no air circulation can be affected even more. Lack of air movement causes CO2 that would be used by plants to become unavailable due to its distance from the leaf (usually down low in the growing area). Moving air helps solve this problem.

Adequate levels of light, water and nutrients are needed for good plant growth. Therefore, it might seem logical to assume the growth-promoting effects of indoor CO2 enrichment would be reduced when these essential resources are present in less-than-adequate amounts. In many instances, however, the percentage of growth enhancement provided by indoor CO2 enrichment is even greater when these important natural resources are present in sub-optimal quantities. When they are in such short supply that plants cannot survive under ambient CO2 concentrations, elevated levels of CO2 often enable such vegetation to grow and successfully reproduce where they would otherwise die. One of the reasons that plants are able to respond to indoor CO2 enrichment in the face of significant shortages of light, water and nutrients is that CO2-enriched plants generally have more extensive and active root systems, which allows them to more thoroughly explore larger volumes of soil in search of the things they need.

Ambient CO2 levels (percentage of CO2 in the air with any enrichment) typically hover around 400 parts per million (ppm). Indoor plants can quickly convert this CO2 through photosynthesis and deplete available CO2.

When CO2 levels fall to around 150 ppm, the rate of plant growth quickly declines. Enriching the air in the indoor growing area to around 1,200 to 1,500 ppm can have a dramatic effect on plant growth. Growth rates typically increase by up to 30%. Stems and branches grow faster, and the cells of those areas are more densely packed. Stems can carry more weight without bending or breaking. CO2-enriched plants also have more flowering sites due to the increased branching effect.

CO2 enrichment also affects the way a plant can tolerate high temperatures. At the highest air temperatures encountered by plants, CO2 enrichment can often mean the difference between living and dying. It typically enables plants to maintain positive

NEW progress earth FP (ilona)

CO2 Enrichment for Indoor Gardening

carbon exchange rates in situations where plants growing under ambient CO2 levels would normally exhibit negative rates that ultimately lead to their demise. This is because CO 2 enrichment affects transpiration by causing the stomata to partially close, which slows down the loss of water vapor into the air. As such, foliage on CO 2enriched plants is much thicker and slower to wilt than plants grown without CO2.

There are many alternatives to traditional CO2 production. The composting of organic matter results CO2, so many large-scale greenhouses have composting rooms adjacent to the growing greenhouse (the CO2 is pumped from one room into the other with circulation fans). One drawback, however, is that composting so close to your growing area can attract potential crop-damaging insects.

The process from beer making—that is, using sugar, water and yeast—has also been used. Not a bad deal if you like to brew beer. The yeast eats the sugar and releases alcohol and CO2 as by-products. If you are not into brewing beer, you can simply mix brewer’s yeast and sugar with water.

Keep in mind, though, it is important to have the temperature of the water right—water that is too hot will kill the yeast and water that is too cold will not activate the yeast.

The process is simple and inexpensive, but it does have some drawbacks. Mainly, it can present an odor problem and it is somewhat time-consuming as you have to remix the brew every four to five days.

Dry ice, which is frozen CO2, releases gaseous CO2 when exposed to the atmosphere. Dry ice has no liquid stage, which makes it easy to work with and has little clean-up.

However, dry ice can be expensive for long-term use and it is difficult to store. Using insulated containers can slow the melting process, but it cannot be stopped.

152

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

"Ambient CO2 levels (percentage of CO2 in the air with any enrichment) typically hover around 400 parts per million (ppm)."

Mycelial-based CO2 production is a relatively new way to introduce CO2. Mushrooms are more like humans in that they exhale CO2, and a non-fruiting strain of mycelium has been discovered that continues to produce CO2 for at least half a year (above-ambient CO2 levels can still be detected up to 16 months later). There is no maintenance or set-up with this option, and the low cost makes mycelial-based CO2 a good option.

As a grower, you know the time and energy you spend working your indoor garden is tremendous.

Adding CO2 is not only a good idea, it's necessary to have the most efficient growing area possible. Natural CO2 production, in particular, is a good choice. The ease of use and the reduced effect on the environment make the described options the green choice. They are also easy on your budget and your plants will love you for it.

NEW dutchmaster FP (emily)

154

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

How can you ensure plants have the right balance of nutrients in your aquaponics system? When growing plants hydroponically, providing essential elements—such as nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium—is relatively simple; just follow the recommendations of a given fertilizer formulation based on the water volume of your reservoir. With aquaponics, however, the addition of fish adds a big problem. Most synthetic plant fertilizers are no longer a safe way to deliver nutrients to the plants as these salt compounds can be toxic to the fish.

Instead, the grower relies on the essential elements found in the mineral premix in fish food, as well as the nitrogenous compounds found in fish waste. While this union of aquaculture to hydroponics is a natural fit, it is not without problems.

This article will discuss these problems by explaining nutrient monitoring and the synergistic and divert requirements, and how to maximize this give and take between what is right for aquaculture and what is right for hydroponics.

I have often viewed aquaponics as more of an art than hard-core science. While it is true there are a myriad of measureable parameters, there is a certain obscurity when it comes to maintaining optimal nutrient concentrations.

Could you measure all essential macro- and micronutrients?

Yes, all pertinent elemental concentrations can be quantified and recorded using a sophisticated spectrophotometer.

Is this practical for the everyday grower? No; this machine,

Most synthetic

plant fertilizers are no longer a safe way to deliver nutrients to the plants as these salt compounds can be toxic to the fish."

coupled with all the needed reagents, can cost a couple thousand dollars. Finding simple aquarium titration kits is much more economical albeit they have a reduced degree of accuracy and precision.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

155

The Aquaponics Balancing Act

You can buffer the water naturally by allowing an accumulation of phosphates from fish food and nitrates from fish waste."

Measuring temperature, pH, alkalinity (initially and before any pH adjustments) and levels of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate are a minimum requirement. Other growers might also assess hardness, electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids, coupled with various other elemental tests. It is important to note that most aquarium kits record total ammonia nitrogen (TAN).

In water, the TAN exists in equilibrium between unionized ammonia (NH3) and an ionized ammonium ion (NH4+)—the former is considered most toxic. Any grower can easily use a table to calculate the ratio of NH3/NH4+ given temperature and pH. Also, if you are interested in calculating the total nitrogen content of the system, you must calculate the percentage of nitrogen, nitrite and nitrate in TAN. One of the most integral water-quality parameters that affect the availability of nutrients to the plants, as well as the health of fish, is pH. The ideal range of pH for the nitrifying bacteria (Nitrosomonas spp. and Nitrobacter spp.) is slightly alkaline (7.0 to 9.0), whereas the ideal pH for micronutrient availability is slightly acidic (5.5 to 6.5). While the lower pH will not eliminate the colonizing bacteria, it can impact the efficiency of detoxifying ammonia to nitrite to nitrate. Therefore, stabilization of pH is paramount in managing the health of plants and fish alike. To do this, however, we must evaluate another water component parameter: alkalinity.

Alkalinity is commonly referred to as the buffering capacity or the ability of a solution to neutralize an acid.

High alkalinity infers the solution can have a relatively large amount of acid or base added without sudden swings in pH. Fish and plants do not respond favora156

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

The Aquaponics Balancing Act

bly to dramatic changes in pH. You can buffer the water naturally by allowing an accumulation of phosphates from fish food and nitrates from fish waste. Still, depending on your water source (reverse osmosis, deionized), it might be appropriate to add a buffering agent—a compound like potassium phosphate could have a dual purpose in that it also provides two macronutrients: potassium and phosphorus.

Personally, I do not like dabbling with excessive chemical supplementation. I find a certain wisdom in personal restraint because the lethal dose for a particular compound might or might not be published for a given fish species. Even if the compound(s) are not at a lethal dose, chronic exposure can depress health, which reduces growth.

Try to effectively deliver all essential elements through fish feed.

Also, to avoid nutrient deficiencies, I recommend targeting those micronutrients that can be locked up at a high pH or are limiting within a given fish food.

If you try for only one these, make sure you target iron. While the requirement for iron is low, the importance in plant growth and function is vast (look for interveinal chlorosis or yellowing of the immature leaf with green veins as indica- tions of iron deficiency). If nutrient deficiencies still exist, however, foliar supplementation is one way to go (refer to the University of Florida’s extension publication HS1163 for more information). In fact, iron is arguably one micronutrient that an aquaponics grower needs to supplement. Supplementing your water with a chelated form of

this element is effective as chelated iron (synthetic or organic) is readily absorbed directly by the plant. Potassium and calcium deficiencies can also arise, but are easily corrected by supplementing with calcium chloride (CaCl2) or KH2POH4. Supplementation can also be combined with pH adjustment when using calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and/ or potassium hydroxide (KOH).

In conclusion, aquaponics is truly a balancing act in which growers are always searching for that ideal middle ground between hydroponics and aquaculture.

Sometimes “trial and error” provides the best way of determining what is right for a particular system with its specific plant and fish species.

While I have described aquaponics as an “art,” every grower should be diligent in his/ her scientific methodology and always adhere to general principles and err on the side of caution when adding chemicals that could potentially harm the fish or the end consumer (that is, people). As such, always measure certain water-quality parameters (temperature, pH, alkalinity, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, etc.). Also, always try to deliver nutrients through the fish feed. Just feed your fish to apparent satiation and then weight out and add additional food for your plants. If deficiencies still occur, check water quality and increase the amount of excess food. If that does not correct the deficiencies (especially iron), only then consider individual supplementation.

Sometimes “trial

and error” provides the best way of determining what is right for a particular system with its specific plant and fish species."

158

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW emerald triangle FP (emily)

Tips and Tricks

Let Me Clarify :

e h t d n a n o g r Ja r e n e d r a G r o o Ind by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr. Gardening, like other disciplines, has its own jargon. However, when people do not know or understand these new terms, things can get a little lost in translation...

160

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

In organic-based plant science, there are two frequently used words—food and nutrient—that can be confusing if not clearly defined and understood.

The term food came into common use in the 1950s when it identified a chemical fertilizer (a substance that contains one or several of the essential plant elements).

Today, it is not uncommon for agronomic and horticultural literature to identify an NPK fertilizer as plant food.

This word combination is generally accepted and commonly used and understood; indeed, Merriam Webster has a definition of food related to plants: “inorganic substances absorbed by plants in gaseous form or in water solution.” However, according to this definition, the terms food and plant food do not relate to organic-based fertilizers since. Organic substances used as fertilizer should therefore be identified by name rather than simply as a food or plant food.

The word nutrient is vague in its meaning and usage.

A dictionary definition doesn’t even help as it is not specific (it is defined in Merriam Webster as “a nutritive substance or ingredient”).

For plant nutrition application, nutrient is understood as being one of the 13 essential plant mineral elements. These are divided into two classifications: the six macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur) found at percent concentrations in plant dry matter and the seven micronutrients (boron, chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum and zinc) found in dry matter at levels less than one hundredth of a percent. For designating one of the 13 plant essential mineral elements, the term plant nutrient element is frequently used (e.g., phosphorus is an essential plant nutrient element) as the simpler term nutrient element does not give the proper identification of being associated with plants.

Unfortunately, the terminology used in both scientific and technical plant journals has been sloppy in their identification of the essential plant mineral elements, referring to them as either essential nutrients, plant

nutrients or simply nutrients. For those engaged in the plant sciences, most generally understand what these terms mean, but for someone not so engaged, the word nutrient could mean a wide range of substances that are nutritive.

In regards to organic-based plant science, the word nutrient is used as an all-inclusive term that incorporates organic compounds containing combined and bonded carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Therefore, one might ask, “What is the difference between a plant nutrient element and an organic substance identified as a nutrient?� This question is difficult to answer since the criteria for establishing essentiality of the plant nutrient elements have been already established, while the criteria for everything else have not. Therefore, as with the words food or plant food, the word nutrient should be confined to the identification of an essential plant nutrient element. For organic substances suggesting plant nutritive values, on the other hand, use only the name that substance and do not identify it as a nutrient.

For those

engaged in the plant sciences, most generally understand what these terms mean, but for someone not so engaged, the word nutrient could mean a wide range of substances that are nutritive."

OD NU TR E NT O F I

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

161

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Continued from page 48

Lucius Maximus Digital Ballast Lucius Digital ballasts are the most technologically advanced ballasts in the market. They are energy-saving ballasts with a durable design, and there are no fans or moving parts attached to them. They work both on HPS and MH lamps. These ballasts help lamps in providing higher lumen output, and they require a low start-up current. Lucius ballasts also have a silent operation and very low-maintenance costs. Finally, these ballasts come with a dimming control, and are available in 400 W, 600 W and 1,000 W. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Introducing Mega Roots Sun System T5 HO Croplight 44 and 48 Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is excited to announce the arrival of the Sun System® T5 HO CroplightTM 44 and 48 Fluorescent Fixtures. The Sun System® CroplightsTM are affordable, energy-efficient T5 high-output horticultural light fixtures. With a low profile and lightweight commercial design, the T5 HO Croplights can be easily handled. This flexible fluorescent fixture can be operated vertically or horizontally to fit all of your gardening needs. Not only is the Sun System T5 Croplight reliable, but it includes durable Stucchi sockets for a long life. American made at our Woodland, WA facility. Visit your nearest indoor gardening shop to learn more.

162

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

A beautiful garden starts with the roots. Root development is essential for proper nutrient absorption. Mega Roots is an affordable root stimulant that will perform as well as, if not better than, other root stimulants on the market. Mega Roots contains key ingredients that stimulate cell division and root formation and development. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

NEW dr earth FP (Ilona)

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

HT2 Digital Humidity and Temperature Controller With Photocell and Display This new Grozone product will evolve with your plants’ needs. The ETL-listed HT2 is a low-cost plug-in humidity/temperature controller with a detachable digital sensor that can be positioned up to 25 ft. from the controller for precise temperature and humidity sensing in your garden. Whether you want to cool, heat, humidify or dehumidify your growroom, this specialty controller offers five operating modes to control different types of equipment according to plants’ growing stages or to the season of the year. The bar graph display shows accurate temperature and humidity readings at the sensor remote location. Different day and night set points are available to optimize your crop yield and plant quality. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Bush Doctor Flowers Kiss: Foliar Plant Food

Introducing Mykos

Survival of the fittest is a way of life in the rainforest. Layer upon layer of giant plants lift their foliage to the sky to capture sunlight, water and nutrients. Bush Doctor® Flowers Kiss™ spray-on foliar plant food is designed to be easily absorbed through stomata on the plants’ leaves like soft rain, providing organic nutrition from the top down.

Flowers Kiss supplements micronutrients that alleviate stress in the transitional period between vegetative growth and flowering. Isn’t it great that your plants don’t have to fight to survive? Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Xtreme Gardening’s Mykos is the mycorrhizal inoculant of choice for serious gardeners. Our single species inoculant reduces intra-species competition as it allows a mycorrhizal association to occur on plant roots much quicker than it normally would with many species competing for the same resources. This is unlike products that boast ecto-mycorrhizae, which normally form associations only with hardwoods. It also advertises spore counts as opposed to propagule counts on its product packaging, as propagules are not as viable as spores and won't create the healthy relationship that your plants need.

Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Root Pouch can Handle Anything Root Pouch’s smaller-sized containers are now available with handles. The black and grey 1-, 2- and 3-gal.containers come with the choice of handles or no handles. Root Pouch offers the option to have handles in the 1- through 100-gal. pots. The handles make the containers easier to move and carry. Our fabric containers allow water and air to flow through its walls, nourishing the root structure of the plant.

It also does not allow the plants’ roots to circle. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

164

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW Myron L FP

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Try SNS Single-use Pouches Now it is even easier to take advantage of the most popular natural plant-care products from SNS with the introduction of the new, convenient, single-use pouches. SNS 203 Pesticide Concentrate attacks the fungus and algae that pests feed on, causing insects’ dehydration and death. SNS 209 Systemic Pest Control distributes rosemeric acid throughout plants’ cell walls, allowing plants to defend themselves against insects. Rosemary extracts in SNS 217C Mite Control disrupt spider mites’ cell structures and suppress their life cycles. SNS 311 Plant and Vegetable Wash safely removes wax, pesticide residues and dirt from plants and produce. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Introducing Megaton Megaton is the newest, most effective flower stimulant on the market today.

Megaton is a proprietary formula that contains a biochemical complex that mimics the flower-inducing characteristics of plants, and is used by commercial growers worldwide. Using Megaton during the fruiting and flowering stage will reduce internodal spacing and allow more energy to be applied to the development of fruits and flowers, resulting in more productive and dense flower sites. Megaton is an organically based product safe for use on fruits and vegetables. Megaton is now available from Blu Moon Nutrients. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop

Danner Mfg., Inc. Releases Supreme Hydroponics Submersible Cloning Pump Danner Manufacturing’s Supreme Hydroponics Submersible Cloning Pump is perfect for incorporating into a plant-cloning system. The micro-spray head provides nutrients to stimulate root growth in cuttings and seeds. The 155-gph pump provides everything necessary from a small to medium cloning system. Features include: 6-ft. power cord, maximum flow 155 gph, energy efficient, oil-free and comes with a one-year warranty.

Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Introducing Axiom, the Next in Harpin Technology Axiom Harpin Protein is a plant health promoter and growth stimulator. It activates a plant’s growth and defense genes with proven results to increase yields, improve plant health and extend shelf life of fresh-cut vegetables by five to seven days. Axiom’s technology was developed at Cornell University and has extensive multi-year positive trial results among a variety of plants and crops around the world. Axiom uses the next generation harpin alpha-beta proteins. Axiom has seen 10 to 30% yield increases in vegetable crops. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

166

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Compost Happens Everywhere Composting is a natural process that yields a nutrient-rich product your crops will love.

Everyone should have a compost pile. Progress Earth is offering the solution in the form of their new product, Compost Pile in a Box. Without proper mineral and biological diversity, it is not possible to create premium compost. That is why Compost Pile in a Box from Progress Earth contains Earth Tonic and Earth recharge, plus detailed instructions on how to use them to create the best compost of your life. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Root Pouch Chameleon Line, now With Handles By popular demand, Root Pouch now offers handles on their 5 to 65 gal. Chameleon container line. Root Pouch’s chameleon line uses the same award-winning technology and industrialstrength, reinforced stitching as their standard handles that have received such great reception. The camouflage style, perfected by military forces around the world, allows the containers to blend into their surrounding environments.

Sometimes you just want to blend in.

For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

50 lb. CO2 Tank now Available

Introducing the Sun System White Wing Reflector for Feliz CFLs Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is excited to announce the arrival of White WingTM, the latest addition to the Sun System® reflector line. The bright white powder-coated finish provides excellent reflectivity and durability.

The White Wing accommodates FelizTM self-ballasted compact fluorescent 125-, 200-, 250- and 300-W lamps. The heavy-duty socket assembly supports the weight of high-wattage CFL lamps. With a sturdy steel construction, the White Wing is designed to last.

Comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Hydrofarm’s heavy-duty aluminum 50 lb. tank is designed to hold carbon dioxide gas and is great for use with a CO2 regulator and valve. The aluminum tank is roughly half the weight of standard steel tanks while still producing reliable results. It features standard tank fittings that easily attach to supplemental CO2 systems and fittings. These tanks do not rust. They are manufactured in accordance with U.S. DOT 3AL and TC 3ALM requirements. Every cylinder is inspected and tested by a DOT- and TC-authorized independent inspection agency. Visit your authorized Hydrofarm hydroponics shop to learn more.

168

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW lambert peat moss FP (ashley)

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Cyco ProKits now Available in Mini Versions The Cyco Mini ProKit is the perfect introduction to the Cyco line. The Bloom and Growth Mini ProKits include all the additives necessary to complement the basic Cyco Bloom A and B or Cyco Growth A and B nutrients. Both Mini ProKits contain 1 qt. each of Cyco Silica, Cyco Zyme, Cyco B1 Boost and Cyco Uptake. In addition, the Bloom Mini ProKit features 1 qt. of Cyco Swell and Cyco Potash Plus, while the Growth Mini ProKit includes 1 qt. of Cyco Dr. Repair and 3.38 oz. of Cyco XL. The application chart employs a color-coded feeding schedule, making this one of the most userfriendly systems available. Visit your nearest indoor gardening shop for more information.

Forever Flowering Introduces the Breathable Wall

SCO2 Grozone CO2 Controller: “The Simple One” Series

Greenhouse and indoor growers now have the ability to move high volumes of air without transferring light. The Breathable Wall has only a 5% air restriction on any size fan. It comes in a variety of sizes and can be adjoined to create passive walls in greenhouses or single units for exhaust fans and intakes. Indoor growers can install the Breathable Wall at any intake or exhaust point. Plus, it can be used to create separate light zones without adding more cooling systems.

Adapter plates for ducting are also now available. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening or specialty greenhouse retail shop.

This ETL-listed CO2 controller, designed and made

by Canadian-based company Grozone Control, offers accurate readings and control of CO2 levels in your indoor garden. The SCO2 is the simplest CO2 controller on the market. Simply start by setting the desired minimum and maximum CO2 concentrations in your room and then choose from six convenient operating modes. The SCO2 will manage your CO2 equipment accurately thanks to its infrared sensor that can be calibrated at any time in fresh air to maintain its precision longer. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

NF Regulator The Nutrifield Plant Growth Regulator comes with two parts. Part A stops upward height growth by blocking the action of gibberellic acid. This helps create a more uniform canopy height and thickness, resulting in even light penetration. The slowing of top growth increases lateral branching in order to fill the spaces, allowing the plant to maximize its flowering sites.

Part B aids in the developmental cycle, leading to increased flowering and harvest weight. It also helps in high-density and uniform flower formation, and improves fruit setting to deliver a quality outcome. Focusing the plant on flowering shortens the harvest cycle. Part B also prevents premature fruit drop and increases the plant’s ability to resist collapse, drought, cold and alkaline-media conditions. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

170

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

NEW lees wholesale FP

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Introducing Calcarb Calcium is critical to the health of you plants. It contributes to the strength of cell membranes and the regulation of nutrient use. Calcium is known to play a major role in the quality of many crops, including peppers, tomatoes and watermelon. It is also able to reduce the effects of heat stress in plants. Calcarb foliar spray allows the user to reduce and even eliminate the use of CO2 tanks and burners, and works great in outdoor environments where the atmosphere cannot be contained. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Hydro-Logic Stealth-RO Low-pressure/ Cold-water/High-flow Reverse Osmosis Membrane

Introducing Titaness Light Shop’s G2V The G2V is the most advanced reflector ever produced to house any 1,000-W lamp. The G2V has a hinged lid for convenient lamp replacement. The exterior of our reflectors are manufactured with lightweight, clear anodized aluminum, giving our reflectors more reflective surface and a stunning appearance. The G2V has a dual-wall construction that incorporates the most advanced airflow technology, which gave us the ability to increase the reflective surface area by eliminating the duct holes that are normally through the reflective surface. The G2V can be as close as 10 in. from the canopy of your garden. For more information, visit an indoor gardening shop near you.

Hydro-Logic is excited to introduce the revolutionary new reverse osmosis low-pressure/cold-water/high-flow membrane for your Stealth-RO. Combat the negative effects of cold or low-pressure source water or get up to double your current flow rates with standard pressure and temperature. When flow rates of purified water decrease or when incoming pressure is below 60 psi, these membranes produce more pure water compared to the standard Stealth-RO membranes.

When water temperature and incoming pressure are higher, you can expect dramatically increased flow rates. The only trade-off is slightly lower PPM rejection rates of 93 to 96% rather than the typical 98 to 99% with the standard StealthRO membranes. Try one today and be amazed at the difference. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Bush Doctor Boomerang: The Comeback Formula Even Mother Nature needs a little help sometimes. Bush Doctor® Boomerang™ lends a hand when the stresses of temperature fluctuations, unintentional neglect and mineral salt buildup knock your beauties down for the count. Boomerang’s microbialbased formula helps heal damaged root tissue while encouraging new root growth and internodal vegetative growth. It contains soluble organic nutrition that is immediately available for amazingly fast recovery of stressed plants. Boomerang can also be used as a vegetative supplement. Bush Doctor Boomerang is the comeback formula that gives your plants a fighting chance. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

172

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Introducing Fast-acting Super Plant Wash From Herb Doctor Herb Doctor’s Super Plant Wash provides urgent care for sick or damaged plants. Herb Doctor hydrates plants with micro-clustered water and activated potassium hydrate for fast absorption. It improves a plant’s vigor and bolsters the plant’s natural defenses.

Herb Doctor washes away residues left by infestations and products. Herb Doctor is a foliar-fed formula that can also be used to treat yellowing clones and for fast relief of potassium deficiency. Simply spray the nutrient-starved plant with Herb Doctor and watch it recover to a healthy shade of green. Herb Doctor is fantastic during the blooming phase.

For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Seaweed Working Hard for Your Crops in Alg•A•Mic Alg•A•Mic™ from Biobizz® is a revitalizing product made from a high-grade, organic seaweed concentrate extracted through cold pressing rather than chemical solvents. It contains a high amount of trace elements and micronutrients, catering to the whole spectrum of plants' needs and resulting in exuberant green foliage. Seaweeds have been harvested for food, fertilizer and medicine for thousands of years.

History books record that the Chinese used seaweeds for medicinal purposes as early 3,000 B.C. Alg•A•Mic is not a fertilizer; it is the organic alternative and can be used along with the regular nutrition. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Light up Your Garden With a Sunleaves Simple Two-way Ballast Gardeners looking for an affordable ballast to light up their indoor garden will love the Sunleaves Simple Two-way Ballast. These magnetic 120/240-V two-way ballasts work with HPS and MH lamps and are now available in a new 400-W version in addition to the original 1,000-W version. Both ballasts include an American-made Aerovox capacitor, 120-V power cord and two-year warranty. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Feel the Rush With Cyco Cyco Suga Rush contains potassium, which is essential for the translocation of sugars, allowing your plants to build additional carbohydrate reserves. Suga Rush consists of several different sources of simple and complex carbohydrates, improving aroma and flavor in food crops. This product provides ample phosphorus and potassium to boost photosynthesis, strengthen root systems, help plants grow rapidly and withstand stress. Visit your nearest indoor gardening shop for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

173

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Black Holes Hydro Has Options After a barrage of requests for us to offer an option on the industry’s most innovative dripper, Black Holes Hydro is now proud to offer our 6-in. dripper in a ¼-in. barb. The 6-in. dripper can be used with rockwool and an array of containers and media. The ¼-in. dripper offers all the same benefits as our original design, with the ability for the user to utilize tubing with a smaller diameter.

More often, suppliers are offering a wide selection of drip-system components; our products offer a unique approach to automated feeding. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Method Seven’s Fission+ Lens Debuts in The Operator Method Seven (M7), the company that developed perfect color-balanced optics for working under HPS lights, introduces the Fission+, a new polycarbonate lens designed in collaboration with Carl Zeiss.

The Fission+ lens debuts in The Operator, a full-wrap frame— designed and manufactured in Italy—offering great comfort, style and peripheral coverage. The Operator is as comfortable in the growroom as it is on the street, in the skate park or on a mountain bike trail thanks to M7’s Silver Reflective Coating. The Operator complements the current glass’ Rendition technology that is the mainstay of M7. Visit your local hydroponics shop to learn more.

Smart Grow Lamps 400-W Elite Open Reflector Imagine a grow light that uses half the energy, 20% of the heat and doesn’t need to be replaced for 10 years.

Introducing the Elite Open Reflector by Smart Grow Lamps, which feature a high-purity polished aluminum reflector (95%) and provide a huge and powerful light thumbprint. The 400-W lamp has the same lumen output of an 850-W HPS and burns at 200°F versus 900 to 1,800°F. Expect lower venting expenses and less nutrient and H2O depletion due to evaporation. Choose from two full-spectrum induction lamps. Smart Grow Lamps feature a simple all-in-one ballast/lamp unit. Comes with a 120-V standard plug. Simply plug and grow. For more information, visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Terra Nova Takes on the Evil Three Terra Nova Research & Development’s new product, Trifecta™ is a triple winner, controlling all of the evil three of the garden—spider mites, powdery mildew and fungus gnats. Terra Nova Research & Development wanted a minimum risk, multi-purpose product that would control the profit-robbing threesome. It’s a powerful blend of natural pyrethrum and clarified neem oil that kills all insect stages: egg, larval and adult. In addition, it prevents and controls powdery mildew. One of this product’s unique features is the flushing action it has on spider mites, chasing them out from their webs and into direct contact with more spray residue. Mites can run, but not hide, from Trifecta. Visit your local hydroponics shop for more information.

174

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

MYH ydro life.c om

MY Lifestyle. MY Magazine. MYHydrolife.com

in every issue: > Hydroponics and organics > Sound and style > Surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding > Gear, clothing and gadgets > Food and festivals > People and places > Reviews and recommendations > More

Read the

October/November edtion of

online now!

connect with us!

How to Use

s t n a l P n Companio For l o r t n o C t Better P e s

176

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

toiled and, You’ve struggled, you’ve d with your at last, you are satisfie be better. But garden. It just couldn’t w you’ve got to what’s this? Pests! No destructive bugs prevent the invasion of the best in your garden. Here’s e you can kind of gardening advic try growing find for that purpose: companion plants.

Beans for corn

rn crops can be very A pest infestation on co dangerous for, the harmful to, and even rounding area. Growentire farm or the sur n or backyard will help ing beans in the garde ects that prey on and to attract beneficial ins mmon pests that help to eradicate the co worms, leaf beetles haunt cornfields. Army all not but sad memoand leaf hoppers will accompany growing ries when bean plants corns.

Sunflowers for corn und corn, it is rs or very useful to gardene Companion plants are that m the in es tural substanc farmers. They have na y the es, cas c ects. In specifi will repel or attract ins n eve d an nts rate of pla can increase the growth ly plants produce. Not on se the s improve the flavor to tem sys eco ced bring a balan that, but they help to nts pla ion an mp growing co the landscape. Overall, nts, hier and productive pla alt he ch will result in mu ction. and better crop produ ilof companion plants ava There are many kinds ’ll you m, the of you’ve heard able. If this is the first are ese Th d. fin by what you probably be surprised anion plants: mp co of some examples

es Tomatoes for cabbag leaves, producing the

bage Some moths feed on cab , cabbageworms. Worse by sed cau same problems t tha ce pa id rap a vae at such moths give birth to lar . ed nte ara gu ays alw is almost a full-blown infestation will ngside cabbage plants Growing tomatoes alo rticupa a it em nts mato pla help ward off moths. To e to om ths loa is ’t stand. It lar odor that moths can rden ga the m fro ay will stay aw them. As such, moths ewhere. and lay their lar vae els

roses Chives or garlic for autiful flow-

ir be Roses are grown for the oy these flowers and ers, but pests can destr r’s labor go to waste. make a quarter of a yea es will help repel Growing chives near ros d on rose flowers. the usual pests that fee

rs aro Just planting sunflowe yield. And if you’ve r you se rea said, will inc won’t for long. Your got aphid problems, you ants, will herd the friends, in the form of the sunflowers. It’s a aphids like cattle onto flowers themselves are curious thing. The sun s can only do a little so tough that the aphid damage at best.

mbers Nastur tiums for cucu beetles.

mber Cucumber attracts cucu insects, they have all sm are se Alought the le to cut right through strong jaws that are ab es. Nasturtiums, on the cucumbers themselv off cucumber beetles the other hand, drive hy development of and allow for the healt cucumber plants.

anion the many types of comp These are only a few of them of me So . for you to use plants that are available ying var in nd fou . Many can be are actually crop plants covdis to e tim lf rse ns. Give you types of vegetable garde ght surprise ion plants are. You mi er what these compan . MY inations you can create yourself with the comb

www.OrganicGardenA

rticles.com

same effect of Garlic is said to have the actually collects rlic repelling such pests. Ga gicide, and can fun al sulfur, which is a natur tion. ven pre e greatly increase diseas

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

177

YOU TELL US

Todd Brady, owner and founder of Rx Green Solutions, recently spoke with Maximum Yield about the company’s exciting new product, Axiom.

Find out how it works, what it does and who should use it…

Todd Brady

Maximum Yield (MY): What is Axiom?

Todd Brady: Axiom is a plant-health promoter and plant-growth stimulator that contains the active ingredient harpin protein, a hypersensitive elicitor able to trigger plant growth and a systemic acquired resistance (SAR)—a well-known plant-defense mechanism that provides resistance to a variety of viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens. Harpin proteins were originally commercialized under the brand Messenger®.

Axiom is the next and latest generation of harpin protein technology available.

MY: What are harpin alphabeta proteins?

Todd: The alphabeta represents the current generation of harpin proteins

present in Axiom. Harpin proteins are produced in nature by certain bacterial plant pathogens. Many of the plants that those pathogens attack have developed receptors on their seeds, roots and foliage. These receptors detect the presence of Axiom. This early-warning system causes plants to activate certain defense and growth responses. These vigorous responses help plants survive the stresses and other threats that diseases present.

Axiom utilizes a technology platform for the production of harpin proteins that are then formulated into a product that contains no actual pathogens.

MY: What role do they play in a garden?

Todd: The use of harpin proteins in the garden will generate a variety of plant benefits, including increased growth and health. For example, reduction in botrytis, reduction in nematode egg populations, frost protection, improved plant vigor and promotion of flower initiation, fruit set and size are some results.

"harpin proteins in the garden will generate a variety of plant benefits, including increased growth and health."

178

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

MY: How do they increase plant yields, improve plant health and extend the shelf life of food crops?

Todd: Axiom triggers plant growth and SAR response in the plant; therefore, a plant typically experiences increased root development and nutrient uptake when Axiom is applied, resulting in a stronger, healthier plant. This increased growth adds to crop yield, improved plant health and resistance to potential viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens. Plants also realize increased fruit quality.

MY: Who should be using Axiom? Is it useful in both indoor and outdoor gardens?

Todd: Everyone! Axiom will assist overall health components in annual and perennial flowers and plants, including specialty strains like orchids and roses. Fruit and vegetable crops have seen strong results in increased plant growth, plant health and reduction in plant diseases. Vegetable plants have been known to see yield increases of 10 to 30%.

MY: How is Axiom used? Is there a special technique for applying it a garden?

Todd: Axiom is easy to apply. The product is best applied through a foliar application every two to three weeks, depending on the plant. We recommend using a 2-g Axiom packet mixed with 1-gal. of water, which should then be applied immediately and can cover up to 1,000 sq. ft., depending on the size and type of plant. Even though you are encouraged to spray evenly, a full coverage of every part of the plant is not necessary.

MY: How do your company’s practices impact the environment? How does Axiom impact the environment?

Todd: Rx Green Solutions is focused on biological solutions, and all of our products are natural-based. Harpin proteins are naturally occurring; therefore Axiom fits in our environmental philosophy of working with natural solutions. Axiom is registered with the EPA and conforms to strict environmental guidelines.

MY: Is Axiom safe to be used around children and animals?

Todd: Yes, Axiom is safe to use around children and animals. Still, users should read the label prior to use and take the same precautions as with other products when applying Axiom.

"Our solutions work with natural systems that mimic Mother Nature, reducing the impact on the environment while promoting natural plant growth and health."

MY: Tell us a little about how your company started and who the people behind Axiom are.

Todd: Rx Green Solutions was founded on the thesis of bringing professional, high-quality products to urban agriculture farmers. We strive to develop quality products with respected research, and we are focused on delivering results. Axiom fits within our company’s mission. The science behind Axiom originally came from Cornell University and was written up in Science Magazine in 1992 as groundbreaking technology. Rx Green Solutions consults with various experts, including Dr. Zhongmin Wei, the scientist who led the discovery of harpin proteins.

MY: What is your company philosophy?

Todd: Rx Green Solutions integrates natural biological solutions into product designs derived from organic sources, providing a holistic nutrient approach. These green solutions provide safe and effective methods to address the nutrient needs of today’s gardener and urban farmer. Our solutions work with natural systems that mimic Mother Nature, reducing the impact on the environment while promoting natural plant growth and health.

MY: What’s in store for your company’s future?

Todd: Rx Green Solutions will continue to be a resultdriven company focused on developing and supporting our high-quality products. Rx Green Solutions product pipeline consists of a robust nutrient program that includes a two-part system, a patented micronutrient technology and a beneficial bacteria product coupled with patented technology proven to stimulate mycorrhizal fungi and other beneficial bacteria.

We hope to continue to deliver solutions that meet the needs of the next generation of urban farmers and gardeners.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

179

talking shop

AT A GLANCE Company: Hydro101 Owners: Gary Howard and Scott Kimball Locations: Suite 24 - 545 Hooksett Rd. Manchester, NH 03104 Phone: 1-603-782-8894 Email:

S-Kimball@comcast.net

Website: hydro101.com Motto: "Gardeners helping Gardeners."

180

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

When the wear and tear of road construction became too much for Scott Kimball, he started exploring other opportunities. Luckily, Gary Howard was also looking at prospects in the same area…

Before opening Hydro101, Scott Kimball worked at road construction. When the wear and tear on his back become too much, however, he started to explore other opportunities. In particular, Scott—who had always been an active gardener—wanted to turn a personal passion into a business. After seeing the success of Gary Howard, who owns and operates three urban garden centers in Maine, Scott realized he could accomplish all his goals by opening a hydroponics store. Luckily, Gary was looking to expand into the New Hampshire market. The two men hashed out a business plan on their annual October bird hunting trip in northern Maine, and once the ball started rolling, there was no going back.

They had planned to have the New Hampshire shop open by February 1, 2012. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to secure a location until late March. However, they worked feverishly to renovate the 3200 sq. ft. space and after three and a half long

weeks, the store was ready to be put together. Utilizing Gary’s experience with his Maine stores, the partners laid out the store in a clean, professional, customer-friendly manner.

And their planning paid off; they now receive daily compliments from their customers about how this is a “real” retail store, with its well-lit open aisles and working displays.

They filled Hydro101’s shelves with an extensive product line. “We can’t sell it if we don’t carry it,” Gary says, so they have a huge inventory, light packages, tents, controllers, pesticides, nutrients, ducting, fans, flood tables and more. Their main distributors are Hydrofarm and Sunlight Supply, as Gary has had a strong relationship with both for over seven years.

“I think the biggest thing that has amazed me is the length people have been willing to go to grow, and the price they’ve paid,” says Scott. “We offer great products at fair prices.

I have heard stories of other shops that have not followed these guide-

Scott Kimball and Kevin Platt

lines. People get angry when they see the products we offer at substantially lower prices than what they have paid in the past.”

Scott has also heard horror stories of customers taking four-hour round trips to get a couple quarts of specific nutrients. Now that Hydro101 has set up shop in central New Hampshire, however, that doesn’t have to happen. In order to reach their customer base and let them know about the shop, Hydro101 has advertised on major radio stations and in local publications. And as the indoor growing season approaches, the shop is about to amp up its efforts to reach even more people.

In combination with having a completely stocked store and offer-

ing the lowest prices in the tax-free state of New Hampshire, Scott believes the shop’s major strength is customer service. Hydro101 currently has three employees alongside Gary, who comes down to do training. Scott, with 13 years experience in the bartending industry, has exceptional customer service skills.

He also has a good understanding of the various products and methods of hydroponics, mostly gained from the boot camp Gary had him do in the Maine stores. Then there is Kevin Platt, who has been a grower and consultant on farms in California and Hawaii.

His knowledge has been a key factor in Hydro101’s early success. Last, but not least, is Matt Burpee. Dubbed the “part-time superstar” by Scott, Matt is great with customers and very knowledgeable about the shop’s vast array of products. They also “employ” Shelby, Scott’s yellow lab. Although she is not knowledgeable in hydroponics, her customer enthusiasm makes up for it.

Hydro101 also has a kind of helpline for customers. If the knowledgeable staff in Manchester can’t help, then a quick call to the Maine gurus

will produce an answer. “We like to look at our customers as fellow growers and genuinely want them to be successful,” explains Scott. “We earnestly encourage our customers to call with any questions. Any help we can give them is our pleasure.”

As far as how their company is unique, Scott feels that if offering customers fair prices with accurate helpful advice in a truly gorgeous store not only brought clients into Hydro101, but it kept them coming in. “I think the days of overcharging unsuspecting customers are over,” he says. “Today’s consumers are more price-conscious than ever. Volume is the key in today’s retail market. Just moving product for fair prices, that’s it.”

What sets Hydro101 apart is the fact there is a whole team of experts that provide the shop with a support system. In particular, Gary’s knowledge about business, the industry in general and the products the shop sells is simply invaluable. With Gary’s mentoring, Scott is certain this store will be as successful as its Maine counterparts and he truly looks forward to the outcome of this journey.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

181

DO YOU KNOW?

1.

Most synthetic plant fertilizers cannot be used in aquaponics because they contain salt compounds that can be toxic to the fish.

The stabilization of pH is paramount in managing both the health of plants and fish.

3.

2.

You can buffer the water naturally by allowing an accumulation of phosphates from fish food and nitrates from fish waste.

4.

5.

6.

Adjuvants, or compatibility agents, are any material added to a pesticide—including insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and even some fertilizers—to enhance its effects.

A wetting agent is any substance added to a liquid to lower its surface tension, thus increasing its ability to spread across or penetrate into a solid.

7.

Screening and sanitizing entrances is a means for keeping disease organisms and insects out of a growing chamber.

10.

182

Ultraviolet light is damaging to many pesticides.

8.

9.

In soil, lack of oxygen stifles beneficial bacteria and promotes harmful varieties. When a soil or nutrient solution becomes anaerobic (lacking sufficient oxygen), root disease or rot starts quickly and the root system shuts down.

Some pests thrive because of the environment—for example, thrips and mites favor a lower humidity and dry air—while others are not fussy and will take advantage of any succulent plant to make home.

Digital ballasts combined with specifically designed HID bulbs have boosted light output while heightening energy efficiency (by up to 15% in some cases).

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Mastering the Art of Hydroponics (STEM)

by Ryan M. Taylor

The Grower’s Battle Within

by Ryan M. Taylor

Many battles are fought when growing hydroponically, and psychological research points out that our greatest battle might be with our own cognitive limits…

When growing crops hydroponically, there are numerous metaphorical battles growers need to wage. Much of our attention is focused on trying to control environmental conditions in order to achieve an optimal balance suitable for plant growth. For example, the right humidity and temperature will help prevent the outbreak of diseases, viruses and molds; pests can be deterred from ruining a crop with proper management of conditions; and so on. However, a grower’s ultimate battle might be with himself or herself.

A great deal of 20th-century psychological research has focused on cataloging and understanding the cognitive flaws and limits of human reasoning. Our judgment and decision-making capacities suffer from several well-known biases and reliance on illogical heuristics.

No matter how smart you are, your short-term memory can only hold a limited amount of information to make judgments and decisions. Also, all humans are ultimately limited by bounded rationality, a concept that earned Herbert Simon a Nobel Prize. Simply put, our decisions tend to be merely satisfactory rather than optimal because we have limitations of time, cognition and information.

As mentioned in a previous article I wrote on how to become an expert hydroponic grower, we imperfect humans can train our brains to improve our intuitive reasoning skills

and plant-growing ability. Keeping detailed records and analyzing trends in the data allows you to better understand the dynamics of plant growth and to better identify when a problem might be arising (often technological and educational investments are necessary for such data recording and quantitative analysis). However, my experiences as an operations management consultant have shown me that this is a large time and mental investment for most hobbyist and small-scale growers. For many, it is too large.

This is why many people turn to automation for a variety of specific functions in hydroponics, such as light timers and cycle timers for irrigation. Integrated controllers and software programs are being developed to simultaneously control and monitor nearly all facets of growing. With contemporary technology, it is possible to operate a growroom from a computer or phone. Isn’t technology grand!

While few things are certain when it comes to the future, I would like to venture a few predictions. First, an increasing number of growers will discover the myriad benefits automation technology offers, which will primarily help them overcome their cognitive and time limitations. These benefits will allow growers to produce larger yields of higherquality crops with less effort.

Second, investments in automation controllers will rise as the quality of the controllers continue to increase and prices decrease.

Finally, the hydroponics industry as a whole will continue to gain global market share of agriculture as both small- and large-scale growers grow high-quality crops with the aid of automation to overcome our inherent cognitive flaws.

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

183

MAX-mART

184

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

GREEN BROS HYDROPONICS

Our product offering of over 4,000 different products include everything needed for indoor, hydroponic, organic and greenhouse gardening. We also carry a wide variety of products for the outdoor gardener.

14072 OSBORNE ST., PANORAMA CITY, CA 91402 (818) 891-0200 | WWW.GREENBROSHYDRO.COM

LLC

like us on

Facebook facebook.com/maximumyield

Phone: 510.903.1808 Fax: 510.764.1246 13762 Doolittle Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577

www.hydrogardendelight.com

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

185

MAX-mART

FREE

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION

TO MAXIMUM YIELD Get the online edition of

Maximum Yield

delivered free to your inbox

EVERY MONTH Visit maximumyield.com

for more information

186

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

maximumyield.com

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ALABAMA Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Rd., Hammondville, AL 35989 256-635-0802 ALASKA Far North Garden Supply 2834 Boniface Parkway, Anchorage, AK 99504 907-333-3141 Southside Garden Supply AK 12870 Old Seward Hwy., Unit 114, Anchorage, AK 99515 907-339-9997 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733 Sea of Green Flagstaff 204 East Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-7643 Homegrown Hydroponics 2401 East Baseline Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85234 480-633-2100 Ground Control Hydroponic & Garden Supplies 1392 Ocean Dr. Homer, AK 99603 907-235-1521 Northern Lights Greenhouse & Garden Supply Suite 105-9737 Mud Bay Rd., Ketchikan, AK 9901 907-225-GROW (4769) Mesa Hydroponics 1720 W. Southern Ave, Ste. C7 Mesa AZ 85202 480-969-4769 Alaska Jack’s Hydroponics and Garden Supply 1150 S. Colony Way, Ste.9, Palmer, AK 99645 907-746-4774 Peninsula Garden Supply AK 44224 Sterling Highway, Suite 4, Soldotna, AK 99669 907-420-0401 Alaska Jack's Hydroponics and Garden Supply 244 S Sylvan Way Unit 25 Wasilla AK 99654 907 373 4757 Far North Garden Supply 300 Centaur Street, Wasilla, AK 99654 907-376-7586 ARIZONA Casa Grande Hydroponics 205 N. Florence St., Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-836-4606 Sea of Green Flagstaff 204-C E. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-SOGF (7643) The Hydro Closet 5826 West Olive Ave. #106, Glendale, AZ 85302 02-361-2049 Homegrown Hydroponics 2525 West Glendale Ave Phoenix, AZ 85051 602-368-4005 Sea of Green West 2340 W. Bell Rd., Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 602-504-8842 Show Low Hydroponics 1400 E. Deuce of Clubs #2 Show Low, AZ 85901 928-537-4606 ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane, Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137

Homegrown Hydroponics 1845 East Broadway Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Sea of Green Hydroponics 1301 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ, 85281 800-266-4136 ____________________________

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

Tucson Hydroponics & Organics 4235 W. Ina Rd., Ste. 131 Tucson, AZ 85741 520-395-2052 ____________________________ ARKANSAS Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Hwy., 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Rd., Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955 Growfresh Organics & More 2900 Zero St., Ste 106, Fort Smith, AR 72901 479-648-8885 Fermentables 3915 Crutcher St., N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261 Anuway Hydroponics 2711 W. Walnut St., Rogers, Arkansas 72756 479-631-0099 CALIFORNIA Greenleaf Hydroponics 1839 W Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801 714-254-0005 Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Dr., Suite F, Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Rd., #7, Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090 A Fertile World 5565 W End Rd Arcata, CA 95521 707-825-0255 American Hydroponics 286 South G St., Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Let it Grow 160 Westwood Center, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-8733 ____________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 639 6th St., Arcata, CA 95521 707-826-9998 ____________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Sweet Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 1041 E. Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 805-473-0004 Auburn Organic 4035 Grass Valley Hwy., Auburn, CA 95602 530-823-8900 High Street Hydro 180 Cleveland Ave., Auburn, CA 95603 530-885-5888 Quail Mountain Ranch 230 Palm Ave., Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-2390 Tell 2 Friends Indoor Gardening 62 Sutherland Dr., Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-8171 Bakersfield Hydroponics Bakersfield , CA 661-808-4640 ____________________________

Stop N Grow 5455 Rosedale Hwy., Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-859-1988 ____________________________ Green Leaf Hydroponics 3903 Patton Way #103 Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-245-2616 Kern Hydroponics 2408 Brundage Lane, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-323-7333 ____________________________

The Hydro Shop 3980 Saco Rd., Bakersfield, CA 661-399-3336 ____________________________ Super Starts PO Box 732, Bellmont, CA 94002 650-346-8009 Berkeley Indoor Garden 844 University Ave., Berkeley, CA 94710 510-549-2918 Berkeley’s Secret Garden 921 University Ave., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510-486-0117 Hydroponic Connection, The 2816 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley, CA 94702 510-704-9376 Brentwood Hydroponics & Organics 560 Valdry Ct #85, Brentwood, CA 94513 925-634-6704 Good To Grow & Global Garden Supply 1350 Rollins Rd., Burlingame, CA, 94010 650-733-4420 Advanced Garden Supply 3113 Alhambra Dr., Unit F, Cameron Park, CA 95682 530-676-2100 Sky High Garden Supply 3081 Alhambra Dr. Suite 105 Cameron Park, CA 95682 530-676-4009 Precision Hydroponics 132 Kennedy Ave., Campbell, CA 95008 408-866-8176

Elite Horticulture Supply 22330 Sherman Way, C13, Canoga Park, CA 91303 818-347-5172 Hydro International 7935 Alabama Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91304 Advanced Hydroponics 17808 Sierra Hwy., Canyon Country, CA 91351 Myron L Company 2450 Impala Dr., Carlsband, CA 9210-7226 760-438-2021 661-299-1603 ____________________________

San Diego Hydroponics North County Coastal 6352 Corte Del Abeto #J Carlsbad CA, 92011 760-420-8934 ____________________________ The Greenhouse Garden Supply 7619 Fair Oak Blvd.

Carmichael, CA 95608 916-515-9130 NorCal Creations PO Box 28, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 Garden Connection, The 629 Entler Ave. #32 Chico, CA 95928 530-342-7762 Hydro King 2540 South Whitman Place, Chico, CA 959282 530-893-GROW (4769) Grow4Less garden Supply & Hydroponics 320 Trousdale Dr., Suite L Chula Visa, CA 91910 619-425-GROW Citrus Heights Hydrogarden 8043 Greenback Lane Citrus Heights, CA 95610 916-728-4769 Conrad Hydroponics Inc. 14915 Unit E, Olympic Dr., Clearlake, CA 95422 707-994 3264 Under The Sun 12638 Foothill Boulevard, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423 707-998-GROW (4769) G & G Organics and Hydroponics 901 W. Victoria Street Unit D, Compton, CA 90220 310-632-0122 Concord Indoor Garden 2771 Clayton Rd., Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Ave., Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 123 Grow 2175 Sampson Ave. #123, Corona, CA 92879 951-280-9232 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth St., #211, Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 The Hydro Spot 21785 Temescal Cyn Rd., Corona, CA 92883 A+ Hydroponics & Organics 1604 Babcock St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949-642-7776 The Hydro Source 671 E. Edna Place Covina, CA 91723 877 HYDRO 82; 626-915-3128

Let it Grow 1228 2nd St., Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-9086 ____________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1070 Highway 101, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-1200 ____________________________ Seaside Hydrogarden 1070 Hwy., 101 North, Crescent City, CA 95531; 707-4653520 Pacific Coast Hydroponics 4147 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230 310-313-1354 Dr. Greenthumbs Hydroponic Garden Supplies 566 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville, CA 94526 925-314-9376 Constantly Growing - Davis 123 D St., Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774 Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Dr., Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710 Harvest Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way Suite B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 Victory Garden Supply 1900 N Lincoln St., #100 Dixon, CA 95620 707 678 5800 Grow A Lot Hydroponics, San Diego 1591 N. Cuyamaca St., El Cajon, CA 93612 619-749-6777 Indoor Garden Solution Inc. 12424 Exline St., El Monte, CA 91732, 626-453-0443 Go Green Hydroponics 15721 Ventura Boulevard, Encino, CA 91436 818-990-1198 ____________________________

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

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

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 60 West 4th St., Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 ____________________________

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

187

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Constantly Growing 4343 Hazel Ave., Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043 Fallbrook Hydro 208 E Mission Rd., Ste B Fallbrook, CA 92028 760-728-4769 ____________________________

Tulare County Growers Supply 435 W. Noble Ave., Unit A, Farmersville, CA 93223 559-732-8247 ____________________________ Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - North 6241 Graham Hill Rd., Felton, CA 95018; 831-335-9000 ____________________________

Eel River Hydroponics & Soil Supply 164 Dinsmore Dr., Fortuna, CA 95540 707-726-0395 ____________________________ The Shop 6542 Front Str., Forestville, CA 95436 707-887-2280 Dirt Cheap Hydroponics 17975 H Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437; 707-964-4211 Hydrogarden Mendocino County 1240 North Main St., Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-962-9252 ____________________________

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

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 357 Main St., Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-5550 ____________________________ Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41469 Albrae St., Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 ____________________________ Gro More Garden Supply & Hydroponics Gro More Garden Supply 2686 Clovis Ave., Ste.109 Fresno, CA 93727 559-348-1055 ___________________________

Roots Grow Supply 1330 North Hulbert, #101 Fresno, CA 93728 559-840-0122 ____________________________

188

Tower Garden Supply & Organic Nursery 403 W. Olive Ave., Fresno, CA 93728 559-495-1140 Valley Hydroponics 207 E. Sierra Ave. Fresno, CA 93710; 559-449-0426 Grow Wurks Hydroponics 765 S. State College Boulevard. Suite J Fullerton, CA 92831 714-253-Grow (4769) SB Hydro 1109 W. 190th Street, Unit #F, Gardena, CA 90248 310-538-5788 Golden Gecko Garden Center, The 4665 Marshall Rd., Garden Valley, CA 95633 530-333-2394 Probiotic Solutions 20889 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, CA 95441 707-354-4342 South Valley Hydroponics 320 Kishimura Dr., #3 Gilroy, CA 95020 866-848-GROW ____________________________

Zen Hydroponics 1801 Victory Blvd.

Glendale, CA 91201 877 ZEN Grow; 818 806 4500 ____________________________

Stop N Grow 340 Pine Ave., Goleta, CA 93003 805-685-3000 ____________________________

All Seasons Hydroponics 17614 Chatsworth St., Granada Hills, CA 91344 818-368-4388 ____________________________ AG Natural 403 Idaho Maryland Rd., Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-274 0990 Grass Valley Hydrogarden 12506 Loma Rica Dr., Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-477-2996 ____________________________

Vital Landscaping Inc. 12817 Loma Rica Dr., Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-273-3187 ____________________________ West Coast Growers Hydroponics 13481 Colifax Hwy., Grass Valley, CA 95945 888-924-4769 Joy's Green Garden Supply 340-A Elm Ave, Greenfield, CA 93927 831-674-1416 M.G.S. 22540 D Foothill Boulevard, Hayward, CA 94541; 510-582-0900

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Thrive Hydroponics 70 A West North St., Healdsburg, CA 95446 707-433-4068 Bear Valley Hydroponics & Homebrewing 17455 Bear Valley Rd., Hesperia CA 92345 760 949 3400 Emerald Garden 13325 South Hwy. 101, Hopland, CA 95482 707-744-8300 Surf City Hydroponics 7319 Warner St., Suite B Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-847-7900 Dutch Garden Supplies Park Circle Suite 12 Irvine CA 92614 949-748-8777 West Coast Hydroponics, Inc. 27665 Forbes Road, Unit 10 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-348-2424 La Habra Hydroponics 1301 S Beach Blvd., Suite O. La Habra, CA 90631 562-947-8383 ____________________________

Grass Roots Hydroponics 31875 Corydon, Suite 130 Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 951-245-2390 ____________________________ South County Hydroponics 22511 Aspan St., Suite E Lake Forest, CA 92630 949-837-8252 Clover Hydroponics & Garden Supply 43 Soda Bay Rd., Lakeport, CA 95453 707-263-4000 ____________________________

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

Total Hydroponics Center Inc 4820 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712 562-984-GROW (4769) ____________________________ Weather Top Nursery 44901 Harmon Dr., Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-6385 ____________________________

CNG Garden Supplies 22 Ricknbacker Circle, Livermore, CA 94551 925-454-9376 ____________________________ DL Wholesale 6764 Preston Ave. Suite D Livermore CA 94551 510-550-0018

____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 6485 Brisa Street, Livermore, CA 94550 888-570-4678 (Southern CA) ____________________________ Garden Depot, The 203 Commerce Street, Suite 101 Lodi, CA 95240 209-339-9950 Valley Rock Landscape Supply 2222 N H Street; Lompoc CA 93436 805 736 0841; 805 735 5921 562 Hydro Shop 717 East Artesia Blvd.

Long Beach Ca,90805 562-726-1101 ____________________________

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

____________________________

Superior Hydroponic Supply 5651 Hollywood Blvd., 90028 Los Angeles,CA 323 465-grow (4769) ____________________________ Green Giant Hydroponics 7183 Hwy. 49 Unit B Lotus, CA 95651; 530-622-4465 Big Momma’s 11455 Clayton Creek Rd., Lower Lake, CA 95457 707-994-1788 California Green Hydroponics 16491 Rd., 26, Suite 101 Madera, California 93638 559-674-1400 grow 22333 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 101 Malibu, CA 90265; 310-456-2910 Deep Roots Garden Center & Flower Shop 207 N. Sepulveda Blvd.

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310-376-0567 B & S Gardening Supplies 592 Commerce Court, Manteca, CA 95336 209-239-8648 Monterey Bay Horticulture Supply 218 Reindollar Ave., Suite 7A, Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO

Long Beach Hydroponics & Organics 1772 Clark Ave., Long Beach, CA 90815 562-498-9525 ____________________________ Atwater Hydroponics 3350 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039; 323-6638881 Green Door Hydro and Solar 830 Traction Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90013 212-625-1323 Hardman Hydroponics 3511 Youree Dr., Shreveport Los Angeles 71105 318-865-0317 Hollywood Hydroponics and Organics 5109 1/2 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027-6105 323-662-1908 Hydroasis 2643 S. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90232 888-355-4769 LAX Hydro 10912 S. La Cienaga Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90304 310-337-6995 Nirvana Hydroponics 340 South San Pedro Los Angeles, CA 90013 310-795-2914 ____________________________

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

Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba St., Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 ____________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1580 Nursery Way McKinleyville, CA 95519 707-839-9998 ____________________________ Mendocino Garden Shop PO Box 1301, 44720 Maint St. (at Hwy. 1), Mendocino, CA 95460 707-937-3459 Hooked Up Hydroponics 1004 W. 15th St. Suite B & C, Merced, Ca 95340; 209-723-1300 INDOOR/OUTDOOR GARDEN SUPPLY 1501 W. Main St., Merced, CA 95340 209-580-4425 The Urban Farmer Store 653 E. Blithedale Ave., Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-380-3840 Mission Viejo Hydroponics 24002 Via Fabricante Suite 502 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-380-1894 Coca’s Central Valley Hydroponics 116 West Orangeburg Ave., Modesto, CA 95350 209-567-0590 Year Round Garden Supply 11000 Carver Rd. #20 Modesto, CA 95350 209 522 2727

____________________________

Green Light Hydroponics 2615 Honolula Ave. Montrose, CA 91020 818-640-2623 ____________________________ South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - Mtn. View 569 East Evelyn Ave., Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070 Redwood Garden Supply 55 Myers Ave., Myers Flat, CA 95554 707-943-1515 ____________________________

Endless Green Hydroponics 25 Enterprise Court, Suite 3 Napa, CA 94558 707-254-0200 ____________________________ Wyatt Supply 4407 Solano Ave., Napa, CA 94558; 707-251-3747 Conejo Hydroponics 3481 Old Conejo Rd., #106 Newbury Park, CA 91320 805-480-9596 Big Momma’s 2581 Stokes Ave., Nice, CA 95464 707-274-8369 ____________________________

Stop N Grow 640 S. Frontage Rd., Nipomo, CA 93444 805-619-5125 ____________________________ Valley Garden Solutions Inc. 15650 Nordhoff Ave., Suite 104, North Hills, CA 91345 818-336-0041 ____________________________

Foothill Hydroponics 10705 Burbank Boulevard, N. Hollywood, CA 91601 818-760-0688 ___________________________ One Stop Hydroponics 12822 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606 818-980-5855 Lumatek Digital Ballasts 33 Commercial Boulevard, Suite B Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4273 Marin Hydroponics 55 Frosty Ln Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4104 Marin Hydroponics 1219 Grant Ave., Novato, CA 94945 415-897-2197 Roots Grow Supply 40091 Enterprise Dr. Oakhurst CA 93644 559-683-6622 3rd Street Hydroponics 636 3rd St., Oakland, CA 94607 510-452-5521

Medicine Man Farms 1602 53rd Ave., Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Plant-N-Grow 1602 53rd Ave., Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Hwy., Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084 Cultivate Ontario 2000 Grove Ave. #a110 Ontario, CA 91761 909-781-6142 Flairform 1751 S Pointe Ave., Ontario, CA 91761 213-596-8820 GreenCoast Ontario Unit 102-103 1920 South Rochester Ave., Ontario, CA 909-605-5777 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 1950 C South Grove Ave., Ontario, CA 91761 888-888-3319 ____________________________ Palm Tree Hydroponics 2235 E 4th St, Suite G Ontario, CA 91764 909-941-9017 ____________________________

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

Green Coast Hydroponics 496 Meats Ave., Orange, CA 92865 714-974-4769 ____________________________ Natural Pest Controls 8320 B Hazel Ave., Orangevale, CA 95662 916-726-0855 Greenback Garden Supply 9341 Greenback Ln., Ste C Orangevale, CA 95662 530-391-4329 ____________________________

Advanced Soil & Garden Supply 350 Oro Dam Boulevard, Oroville, CA 95965 530-533-2747 ____________________________ Igrow Hydro 2280 Veatch St., Oroville, CA 95965 530-534-4476 Orville Organic Gardens 5250 Olive Hwy Ste 1 Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9950

US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Ave.,, Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086 Pacifica Hydroponics 90 Eureka Square Pacifica, CA 94044 650-355-5100 ____________________________

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

Hydroponics Unlimited 641 W. Palmdale Blvd. “D” Palmdale, CA 93550 661-266-3906 ____________________________ Palm Springs Hydroponics 4651 Ramon Rd., Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-ROOT ____________________________

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

Green Bros Hydroponics 14072 Osborne St., Panorama City, CA 91402 818-891-0200 ____________________________ Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona, CA 91766 909-620-7099 New Leaf Hydro 34150 123rd St., Parablossom, CA 93553 661-944-2226 Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO 365 Hydroponics 2062 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 626-345-9015 Garden All Year Inc. 3850 Ramada Dr.,Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805 434 2333 www.gardenallyear.com Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 3850 Ramada Dr., Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333 Foothills Hydrogarden 3133 Penryn Rd., Penryn, CA 95663 916-270-2413

____________________________

Funny Farms Hydroponics 963 Transport Way, #12 Petaluma, CA 94954 707-775-3111 ____________________________ House of Hydro 224 Weller St., #B, Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-4769 Wyatt Supply 1016 Lakeville St., Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-3747 JNJ Hydroponics 4774 Phelan Rd. Suite 2 Phelan, CA 92371 760-868-0002 Turbo Grow 1889 San Pablo Ave., Pinole, CA 94564 510-724-1291 Hillside Hydro & Garden 4570 Pleasant Valley Rd., Placerville CA 95662 530-644-1401 Best Yield Garden Supply 3503 West Temple Ave., Unit A, Pomona, CA 91768 909-839-0505 Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona, CA 91766 909-620-7099 Emerald Garden 8249 Archibald Ave., Ranch Cucamanga, CA 91730 909-466-3796 ____________________________

Orsa Organix 111 Willow St., Redwood City, CA 94063 650-369-1269 ____________________________

Mendocino Greenhouse & Garden Supply 960 East School Way, Redwood Valley, CA 95470 707-485-0668 ____________________________ EZ Green Hydroponics 7017 Reseda Boulevard, Reseda, CA 91335 818-776-9076 Hydro Hills Hydroponics 19320 Vanowen St., Reseda CA 91335 Box Of Rain Inc. Po Box 302, Rexford, CA 59930 406-755-7245 Hi-Tech Gardening 5327 Jacuzzi St., #282, Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-4710 The Urban Farmer Store 2121 San Joaquin St., Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-1604 ____________________________

Discount Hydroponics 4745 Hiers Ave., Riverside, CA 92505 877-476-9487 ____________________________ GreenLeaf Hydroponics 2212 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach, CA 90278 310-374-2585 ____________________________ Radiant Roots Gardening & Hydroponics 1394 S Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach, CA 90277 310-540-2005 Shadow Valley Aquatics 75 Kimick Way, Red Bluff, CA 96080 530-526-0479 Bear Roots Hydroponics 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, CA 96002 530-244-2215 Dazey’s Supply 3082 Redwood Dr., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002 Humboldt Hydroponics 2010 Tunnel Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-1402 Redway Feed Garden and Pet Supply 290 Briceland Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-2765 Sylvandale Gardens 1151 Evergreen Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3606 Hydro King 105 Hartnell Ave., Suite C and D, Redding, CA 96002 888-822-8941

All Ways Hydro 2220 Eastridge Ave. Suite C Riverside CA 92507 888-HYDRO98 ____________________________

Calwest Hydroponics 11620 Sterling Ave., Suite A Riverside, CA 92503 800-301-9009 ____________________________ Hydro Depot 5665 Redwood Dr., #B, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-584-2384 Igrow Hydro 9000 Atkinson St., Roseville, CA 95678 916-773-4476 Green Acres Hydroponics 1215 Striker Ave., Suite 180, Sacramento, CA 95834 916-419-4394 Greenfire Sacramento 3230 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95821 916-485-8023 Green Thumb Hydroponics 35 Quinta Court, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95823 916-689-6464

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

189

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ____________________________

KY Wholesale 8671 Elder Creek Rd. #600 Sacramento, CA 95828 916 383 3366 ____________________________ Mystic Gardens 8484 Florin Rd., #110, Sacramento, CA 95828 916-381-2464 Sac Hydroponics 9529 Folson Boulevard, Suite C Sacramento, CA 95827 916-369-7968 Skywide Import & Export Ltd. 5900 Lemon Hill Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824 916-383-2369 Tradewinds Wholesale Garden Supplies 1235 Striker Ave. #180, Sacramento, CA 95834 888-557-8896 Green Joint Ventures 61 Tarp Circle, Salinas, CA 93901 831-998-8628 ____________________________

Green Lady Hydroponics 4879 Newport Ave., San Diego, CA 92107 619-222-5011 Home Brews & Gardens 3176 Thorn St., San Diego, CA 92104 619-630-2739 ____________________________

Indoor Garden Depot 1848 Commercial St. San Diego CA 92113 619-255-3552 ____________________________ Innovative Growing Solutions (IGS) 5060 Santa Fe St. Ste.D San Diego, CA 92109 858-578-4477 ____________________________

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

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

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

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 1900 Bendixsen St. , Bldg. 1, Samoa, CA 95564 800-683-1114 (Northern CA) ____________________________ Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. Street, Suite D, San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919 Garden Shed, The 1136 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 650-508-8600 Pure Food Gardening/ Microclone 830 H Bransten Rd. San Carlos,CA 94070-3338 Green Gopher Garden Supply 679 Redwood Ave., Suite A, Sand City, CA 93955 831-899-0203 Modern Gardens 26620 Valley Center Dr. Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-513-4733 Best Coast Growers 4417 Glacier Ave. Suite C, San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Ave., San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358

190

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Plant It Earth 661 Divisadero San Francisco, CA 94117 415-626-5082 Plant It Earth Warehouse 1 Dorman Ave., San Francisco, CA 94124 415-970-2465 ____________________________

Grow Your Own 3401 Traval St., San Francisco, CA 94116 415-731-2115 ____________________________ Hydroponic Connection Warehouse, The 1995 Evans Ave., San Francisco, CA 94124 415-824-9376 Nor Cal Hydroponics 4837 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118 415-933-8262 Plant It Earth 2279 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94114 415-626-5082 ____________________________

Central Coast Hydrogarden 1951 Santa Barbara St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-544-GROW Healthy Harvest Hydroponics and Organics 2958 S. Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.596.0430 ____________________________

San Diego Hydroponics North 802 N. Twin Oaks Valley Road #108 San Marcos, CA 92069 760-510-1444 ____________________________ H20 Gardening 355 West 7th St., San Pedro, CA 90731 310-514-1416 Marin Hydroponics 721 Francisco Blvd East San Rafael, CA 94901 415-482-8802 Pacific Garden Supply 128 H Carlos Dr., San Rafael, CA 94903 San Rafael Hydroponics 1417 Fourth St. San Rafael, CA 94901 415 455 9655 ____________________________

UrbanGardens advanced hydroponics and gardening

704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Miramar Hydroponics & Organics 8952 Empire St., San Diego CA 92126 858-549-8649 ____________________________

Oracle Garden Supply 5755 Oberlin Dr., Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92121 858-558-6006 ____________________________ Pacific Beach Hydroponics 1852 Garnet Ave., San Diego, CA 92109 858-274-2559 ____________________________

San Diego Hydroponics Beach Cities 4122 Napier St., San Diego, CA 92110 619-276-0657 ____________________________ Wai Kula Hydrogardens 5297 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92110 619-299-7299 Direct Hydroponics Wholesale 1034 W. Arrow Hwy. #D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 Liquid Gardens 1034 West Arrow Hwy. #D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 Extreme Hydroponics 11479 San Fernando Road C, San Fernando, CA 91340 818-898-0915

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Urban Gardens Unlimited 704 Filbert St., San Francisco, CA 94133 415-421-4769 ____________________________ San Francisco Hydro 123 Tenth St., San Francisco, CA 94103 The Urban Farmer Store 2833 Vicente St., San Francisco, CA 94116 415-661-2204 US Garden 417 Agostinio Rd., San Gabriel Ca 91776 626 285-5009 Inland Empire Hydrogarden 1301-C South State St., San Jancinto, CA 92853 Hahn’s Lighting 260 E. VA Suite 1, San Jose, CA 95112 408-295-1755 Plant Life 32 Race St., San Jose, CA 95126 408-283-9191 Hydrofarm, Inc. 2249 South McDowell Extension Petaluma, CA 94954 800-634-9990 Hydrofarm Southwest 12991 Leffingwell Road Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 800-634-9990 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - San Jose 1185 South Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128 408-292-4040 D&S Garden Supplies 17-130 Doolittle Dr., San Leandro, CA 94577 510-430-8589 Hydrogarden Delight 13762 Doolittle Dr., San Leandro, CA 94577 510-903-1808

Green Coast Hydroponics 3560 State St., Santa Barbara, CA 93105 805-898-9922 ____________________________ Nutes Int’l 204 N Quarantina St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 805-687-6699 Planet Earth Hydroponics 102 East Haley St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805 899 0033 ___________________________

Urban Grow Systems 204 N Quarantine St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103 805-637-6699 ____________________________ Santa Clarita Valley Hydroponics 25835 Railroad Ave. #26 Santa Clarita CA 91350 661 255 3700 661 255 3701 California Hydroponics 310 Coral St., Suite C Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-423-4769 Hydro-Logic Purification Systems 370 Encinal St., Suite 150, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 888 H2O LOGIC Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - West Side 815 Almar Ave., Unit K, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-9000 Gottagrow Garden Supply 769 Wilson St., Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-544-7782

____________________________

Green Logic Garden Supply 860 Piner Road, #38, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-843-3156 ____________________________ Organic Bountea 1919 Dennis Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 800-798-0765 Wyatt Supply 747 Yolanda Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-578-3747 Next Generation Hydroponics 10658 Prospect Ave., Ste.A Santee, CA 92071 619-438 2415 ____________________________

Santa Rosa Hydroponics 4880 Sonoma Hwy Santa Rosa, CA 707-595-1340 Santa Rosa Hydroponics 4130 S Moorland Ave Santa Rosa, CA 707-584-9370 ____________________________ Santee Hydroponics 7949 Mission Gorge Rd., Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Gardening Unlimited 60 Old El Pueblo Rd., Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-457-1236 Pro Gardening Systems 765 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-7252 Better Choice Hydroponics 610 S. Washington St., Senora, CA 95370 209 533 2400 Go Big Hydroponics 4501 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-789-3341 Bloom Brothers Garden Supply, Inc. 3293 Industry Dr. Signal Hill, CA 90755 562 494-0060 ___________________________

We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 ___________________________ Abundant Hydroponics LLC 1611 Shop St., #1-A, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-54 HYDRO ____________________________

Advanced Garden Supply 2660 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Building C, Unit 9, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-4769 ____________________________

Farm Hydroponics, The 1950 Lake Tahoe Boulevard #3, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-3276 Valley Hydro and Organics 19230 Sonoma Hwy. Sonoma CA 95476 707-396-8734 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - East Side 4000 Cordelia Lane Soquel, CA 95073 831-475-9900 ____________________________

Orange County Hydroponics 12797 Beach Boulevard, Stanton, CA 90680 714-893-9493 ____________________________

HomeGrown Indoor Garden Supply 681 A Grider Way, Stockton, CA 95210 209-477-4447 ____________________________ Golden Harvest Hydroponics & Garden Supply 8626 Lower Sacramento Road #48, Stockton, CA 95210 209-951-3550 M&M Garden Supply 2509 West Lane, Suite B Stockton, CA 95205 209-939-0664 Pacific Ave Indoor Garden Supply 4633 pacific Ave Stockton, CA 95207 209-955-0945 City Farm Hydroponics 8903 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Sun Valley, CA 91352 818-767-2076 ____________________________

Sunland Hydroponics 8300 Foothill Boulevard, Sunland, CA 91040 818-352-5300 ____________________________ Anthony’s Garden & Lighting Supply 30 Ridge Road, Suites 8 & 9 Sutter Creek, CA 95685 209-267-5416 Tahoe Garden Supply 645 Westlake Boulevard, Suite 2, PO Box 487 Tahoe City, CA 96145 530-581-3200 The Otherside Hydroponics 19425 Ventura Blvd Tarzana CA 91356 818 881 hydro (4937) Hydroponics 4 Less 41669 Winchester Avenue, Temecula, CA 92590 800-A1-HYDRO Inland Empire Hydrogarden 28822 Old Town Front St. #206 Temecula, CA 92590 886-74-HYDRO

____________________________

805 Hydroponics & Organics 1785 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-494-1785 ____________________________

Art of Hydro 2636 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-230-2227 ____________________________ Green Thumb Lighting & Garden 1647 W. Sepulveda Boulevard, Unit 5, Torrance, CA 90501 888-326-GROW Los Angeles Hydroponics and Organics 3007-3009 W. Artesia Blvd.

Torrance, CA 90504 310-323-4937 Anything Grows 10607 W. River Street, Building 3 Suite C, Truckee, CA 96161 530-582-0479 Garden Depot Hydroponics 1460 Freitas Park Turlock, CA 95380 209-250-0101 Hooked Up Hydroponics 339 S. Golden State Boulevard, Turlock, CA 95380 209-668-1300 Emerald Garden 307 East Perkins Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-463-2510 ____________________________

HydroPacific - Hydroponics & Garden Supplies 351 C Hastings Av., Ukiah, CA 95482 707-467-0400 ____________________________ Northcoast Hydrogardens 3450 North State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7214 Wyatt Supply 2200 N. State St. Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7473 Atlantis Garden Supply 2851 A Whipple Road, Union City, CA 94587 510-487-8007 Evergreen Hydroponics 923 N. Central Avenue, Suite B, Upland, CA 91786 909-946-7100 TNC Supply 9490 Main Street, P.O. Box 763 Upper Lake, CA 95485 707-275-9565 Everything Green 1650 Lewis Brown Dr. Vallejo, CA 94589 707 647 0774 Sky High Garden Supply 3081 Alhambra Dr. Suite 105 Cameron Park CA 95682 530-676-4009 Hydroponics Market 15816 Arminta St Van Nuys, CA 91406 818-305-6261 886-72-HYDRO

____________________________

Stop N Grow 4160 Market Street, Unit 11 Ventura, CA 93003 805-639-9489 ____________________________

BWGS-CA 7530 W. Sunnyview Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 888-316-1306 ____________________________ The Green Shop 66420 Mooney Boulevard, Suite 1 Visalia, CA 93277 559-688-4200 Kaweah Grower Supply 1106 1/2 N. Ben Maddox Way, Visalia, CA 93293 559-625-4937 Greentrees Hydroponics Inc. 2581 Pioneer Avenue, Unit D Vista, CA 92081 760-598-7551 Home Life Hydroponics and Organics 1745 East Vista Way, Vista, CA 92084 760-643-2150 Specialty Garden Supply 7 Hangar Way Ste B Watsonville Ca 95075 831-768-0420 Evergreen Farm Feed and Garden 1131 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093 530-623-2884 California Hydro Garden 1043 South Glendora Avenue, Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874 Hydronation 2491 Boatman Drive, Suite B West Sacramento, CA 95691 916-372-4444 Flower Hut Nursery 603 4th Street Wheatland, CA 95692 530-633-4526 ____________________________

Sparetime Supply 208 E. San Francisco Avenue, Willits, CA 95490-4006 ____________________________

Hydromagic Supply 40 N. East St. Suite F Woodland,CA 95776 530-661-0117 ____________________________ Urban Gardens 22516 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-876-0222 ____________________________

Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 ____________________________ Garden Highway Garden Supply 598 Garden Highway #22 Yuba City, CA 95991 530-755-2877 Golden Valley Hydroponics 870 W. Onsott Rd. Ste F Yuba City, CA 95993 530-763-2151 Southern Humbolt Garden Supplies 34919 Yucaipa Boulevard, Yucaipa, CA 92399 909-797-6888; 707-459-6791 Yucca Valley Hydroponics 56825 Twentynine Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 760 369 0300 COLORADO South Park Hydroponics 42 E Buckskin Rd. Alma CO 80420 719 836 1533 ____________________________

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

Deep Roots Garden Supply 1790 Airport Road, Unit 1 Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-1440 Mile High Hydroponics 37 Strong St. Brighton, CO 80601 303-637-0069 Brighton Hydroponics 839so.Kuner rd., Brighton, CO 80601 303-655-1427 ___________________________

ACME Hydroponics 300 Nickel St Suite 3 Broomfield, CO 80020 720.524.7306 ___________________________ Colorado Grow 3400 Industrial Lane, Unit 10A Broomfield, CO 80020-1652 303-465-GROW (4769) Hydrofarm Mountain 400 Burbank St Broomfield, CO 80020 800-634-9990 J&D Organic Growing Solutions 217 1/2 Clayton Street Brush, CO 80723 970-310-5408 CT. Home Grown 45 South Canterbury Rd. Canterbury CT 06331 BIG BloomZ 1011 Caprice Drive, Castle Rock, CO 80109 303-688-0599 ___________________________

Indoor

The

Gardener

Indoor Gardener. The 3225 I-70 Business Loop Unit A10 Clifton, Colorado 81520 970-434-9999 ____________________________ Indoor Garden Warehouse 8100 S Akron St., Suite 322, Centennial, CO 80112 720-496-2110

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

Green Coast Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard Whittier, CA 90601 562-699-4201 ____________________________ GreenWay Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90601 Lazy Gardeners Hydroponics ‘N’ More 14626 East Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90605 562-945-0909 Garden Spout, The 260 Margie Dr Willits, CA 95490 707-456-0196 Green Acres 20946 Victory Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA91367

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

The Big Tomato Indoor Garden Supply 14440 E. 6th Ave. Aurora, CO 80011 (303) 364-4769 ___________________________ Family Hydroponics-Boulder 2125 32nd Street Boulder, co 80301 303-996-6100 Polar Ray 5171 Eldorado Springs Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 303 494 5773 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 2125 32 Street Boulder, CO 80301 303-996-6100

Garden Tech 737 Garden of the Gods Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-278-9777 Greenhouse Tech 917 East Fillmore, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-634-0637 Hydro Grow Supply 644 Peterson Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719-596-2600 Purple Mountain Hydroponics LLC 1530 S Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-635-5859 Room To Grow LLC 422 South 8th Street Colorado Springs CO 80905 719-633-8682 Roots and Rocks Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 1014 S. 21st Street Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-634-1024

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

191

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ____________________________

TS

C

N-BR Y-

EN

ROC K

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

ON

I F E R, C

O

Grofax 25797 Conifer Rd #a-8 Conifer, Co 80433 303-838-5520 ____________________________ Happy Grow Lucky 11873 Springs Rd. Conifer, CO 80433 1-303-838-8700 ____________________________

Roll-N-Green Farms Horticultural Supply 25797 Conifer Rd #A-8 Conifer, Co 80433 303-838-5520 ____________________________

Global Organics & Hydroponics 11 N Broadway Cortez CO 81321 970-564-8100 ____________________________

BWGS-CO 11685 E. 55th Avenue Denver, CO 80239 888-316-1306 ____________________________

Chlorophyll 3801 Mariposa St. Denver CO 80211 303-433-1155 ____________________________ Denver Hydroponic & Organic Center 6810 North Broadway, Unit D Denver, CO 80221 303-650-0091 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 1717 39th Ave Denver, CO 80205 800-58HYDRO The Grow Outlet 4272 Lowell Boulevard Denver, CO 80211 303-586-5543 Way To Grow 301 East 57th Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-296-7900 ____________________________

All Seasons Gardening 434 Turner Drive, Suite 2B Durango, CO 81303 (970) 385-4769 ____________________________

192

Blue Sky Hydroponics 1301 Florida Road Unit C Durango, CO 81301 970-375-1238 DHL Garden Supply 178 Bodo Dr.Unit B Durango, Co 81303 970-247-1090 Grow Store South, The 5050 S. Federal Boulevard, #37, Englewood, CO 80110 303-738-0202 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 439 Edwards Access Rd Unit B101 Edwards, CO 81632 970-926-2100 Alpenglow Garden Supply 2712 South College Ave Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-266-8888 Bath Nursery & Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-484-5022 Gold Coast Hydroponics West 8101 S.W. Frontage Road Suite 300 Fort Collins, Colorado 80528 970-232-3220 Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769 ____________________________

Hydro Shack, The 220 Main Street, Suite E Frisco, CO 80443 970-668-0359 ____________________________ GWS Hydroponics 7025 Highway 82 Building 4B, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-384-2040 Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 7800 Colorado 82 #203 Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 970-947-9551 Hydro Planet 711 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO 80401 303-279-6090 Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 15985 S. Golden Road Golden, CO 80401 720-475-1725 Desert Bloom Hydroponics 445 Pitkin Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-245-6427 970-668-0359 ____________________________

Primo Gardens 1600 North Ave. Suite B Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-1209 970-668-0359 ____________________________ Greeley Nutrients 700 11th Street Unit 101 Greeley CO 80631 970 673 8302 Your Grow Bud 6801 South Emporia St. Suite 106 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 Tel: 303-790-2211

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

GroWize 3225 S. Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80227 303-986-2706 Grow Store, The 8644 W. Colfax Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80215 888-510-0350 ____________________________

MileHydro 355 S. Harlan St. Lakewood CO 80226 303-935-4769 ____________________________ Ever Green Hydroponics Inc. 1131 Francis Street, Suite A, Longmont, CO 80501 303-682-6435 ____________________________

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

Victory Hydro Gardening 1387 E. South Boulder Rd. Louisville, CO, 80027 303-664-9376 ____________________________ Lyons Indoor Gardening 138 Main Street, Lyons, CO 80540 720-530-3828 Head Start Hydroponics & Organic Gardening Emporium 34500 US Highway 6, Unit B-9, North Edwards, CO 81632 970-569-313 Grow Depot 1434 W. 104th Ave. Northglenn, CO 80234 303-459-7878 Pueblo Hydroponicss and Organics - Downtown 113 W 4th St, Pueblo CO 81003 719 542 6798 Pueblo Hydroponics and Organics- South 2704 S Prarie Ave Suite C Pueblo CO 81005 719 564 2660 Pueblo Hydroponics and Organics 609 E Enterprise Dr Pueblo West CO 81007 709 647 0907 Salida Hydroponic Supply 1242 C Street Salida, CO 81201 719-539-4000 ____________________________

Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 7777 W. 38th Avenue, A120A, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-954-9897 ____________________________

CONNECTICUT ____________________________

CT Home Grown 45 South Canterbury Rd. Canterbury, CT 06331 860-546-6161 ____________________________

Grow Crazy 11 Berlin Rd. Unit 2 Cromwell CT 06416 203-660-8486 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 775 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT 06118 860-568-4067 LiquidSun® CT 10C South Main Street, East Windsor, CT 06088 860-254-5757 ____________________________

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

Good To Grow 335 Westport Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 203 956 5600 www.goodtogrowct.com ____________________________ Delaware Sunny Day Organics 1867 Coastal Hwy. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware MD 19917 302 703 2538 FLORIDA ____________________________

Urban Sunshine 1420 E. Altamonte Dr. Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 407-830-4769 ____________________________ Best Hydro 4920 Lena Road, Bradenton, FL 34211 941-756-1928 Palm Coast Hydroponics 4490 N Hwy US1 Ste. 108 Bunnell FL 32110 386 246 4119 ____________________________

East Coast Hydroponics & Organics 461 Forrest Avenue, Suite 105 Coca, FL 32922 321-243-6800 ____________________________

GreenTouch Hydroponics Inc. 5011 S State Road 7, Suite 104 Davie, FL 33314 954-316-8815 Absolute Hydroponic Garden Center Inc 1607 Old Daytona Steet Deland, FL 32724 386-734-0696 Organic Grow Hut 2 780 Deltona Blvd. #107 Deltona, Florida 32725 1-888-574-grow 386-259-5777

Gold Coast Hydroponics 1539 SW 21st Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 1-800-780-7371 ____________________________

Biofloral 6250 NW 27th Way, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 877 735 6725 ____________________________ Green Thumb Hydroponics Supplies 13482 North Cleveland Avenue, Fort Meyers, FL 33903 239-997-4769 Gardener’s Edge Gainesville 5000 NW 34th Street, Suite 13, Gainesville, FL 32605 352-375-2769 ____________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 2692 W 79 Street, Hialeah, FL 33016 1-800-931-5215 ____________________________ Hydro Terra Corp.

924 North Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020 954-920-0889 Simply Hydroponics & Organics (North) 3642 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34448 352-628-2655 Hydroponics International Inc. 7029-10 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32220 904-693-6554 ____________________________

Grower’s Choice & Hydroponics 11855 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32218 904-683-4517 ____________________________ Urban Organics & Hydroponics 5325 Fairmont Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-398-8012 Simply Hydroponics & Organics 7949 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33773 727-531-5355 GrowSmart Indoor Garden Centers 14587 Southern Boulevard, Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-429-3527 Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – West 14703 Southern Blvd.

Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561 296 8555 Atlantic Hydroponics 430 Count Street, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-1535 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 2975 West New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-0853 ____________________________

Advanced Hydro Gardens 4960 NW 165 Street, Suite B-4, Miami, FL 33014 866-97-HYDRO Blossoms Experience, The 7207 NW 54th Street, Miami, FL 33166 866-452-4769 ____________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 9545 Sunset Drive, Miami, FL 33173 800-931-5215 ____________________________ Future Farms Inc., The 14291 SW 120th Street, Suite 105 Miami, FL 33186 305-382-2757 Gold Coast Hydroponics 4241 SW 71st Avenue, Miami, FL 33155 1-800-780-6805 Growing Garden Inc., The 12811 SW 42nd Street, Miami, FL 33175 305-559-0309 VitaOrganix 7921 NW 67th St Miami, FL 33166 786 845 8633 3D Hydroponics and Organics 7139 US Highway #19, New Port Richey, FL 34652 727-847-3491 ____________________________

Florida Garden Supplies 8442 Tradeport Drive, Unit 200, Orlando, FL 32827 ____________________________

Urban Sunshine 6100 Hanging Moss Rd ste 50 Orlando, FL 32807 407-647-4769 ____________________________

Urban Sunshine 6142 S. Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32809 407-859-7728 ____________________________ Green Winters Inc. 147 Tomoka Avenue, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 386-235-8730 800-931-5215 The Healthy Harvest Ste. 126 21113 Johnson St. Pembroke Pines, FL. 33029 954-538-1511 Eden Garden Supply 5044 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32505 850-439-1299 Healthy Gardens and Supply of Florida, Inc. 196 East Nine Mile Road, Suite F, Pensacola, FL 32534 850-912-4545 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 455 S. Andrews Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 877-649-3567 (Southeast) ____________________________

Hydroponic Depot II 2395 S Tamiami Trail #19 Port Charlotte FL 33952 941 255 3999t

____________________________

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

EZ Grow Green 604 S.W. Bayshore Blvd.

Port St. Lucie, Fl 34983 772-807-7755

Florida Garden Supplies 8020 Belvedere Road,Unit 4, West Palm Beach,FL 33411 800-931-5215 ____________________________ Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – East 968 North Congress Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 33409 561 296 6161

IDAHO

GEORGIA ____________________________

Greenthumb Greenhouses 5895 Ensign Avenue, Boise, ID 83714

Urban Sunshine Organic & Hydroponic Gardening 2841 South Nove Rd., Ste. 5 South Daytona, FL 32119 386-236-9989 386-492-6978 Mr. Nice Guy Hydroponics 1800 NW. Federal Hwy., Stuart, FL 34994 772 934 6785 Esposito Garden Center 2743 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-386-2114 Evershine Hydroponics 1519 Capital Circle NE Unit #35 Tallahassee FL 32308 850-765-0040 Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8877 North 56th Street Tampa, FL 33617 813-514-9376 Harvest Time Hydroponics 14414 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613 813-264-7101 Hydroponics of Tampa 120 W. Bougain Villea, Tampa, FL 33612 813-333-6828 Stoney Hydro @ Schiro’s Barn n Garden Supplies 7812 Causeway Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902 ____________________________

Worm’s Way Florida 4412 North 56th Street, Tampa, FL 33610 800-283-9676; 813-621-1792 ____________________________

Monkey Hydroponics 940 West Oakland Ave. Unit A1 407-574-8495 ____________________________

Happy Planet Hydroponics 11433 U.S. HWY 441 Tavares FL, 32778 352-253-1001 ____________________________

365 Hydroponics 13054 W Colonial Drive Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-GROW(4769) ____________________________ Cultivating Eden Hydroponic Supplies 946 18th Avenue SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962 772-564-8880

Boise Hydroponics 614 North Orchard Street, Boise, ID 83706 208-344-3053 Four Seasons Garden Supply 6218 W Overland Rd Boise ID 83709 208-377-3030

ILLINOIS

Atlantis Hydroponics 1422 Woodmont Lane, #4, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-367-0052 ____________________________ Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 1239 Fowler St. NW Atlanta, GA 30318 Flora Hydroponics Inc. 2475 Jefferson Road, Suite 600 Athens, GA 30607 866-404-0551 Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 195 Paradise Blvd.

Athens, GA 30607 ____________________________

Alpha Hydroponics and Garden Supply Inc. 3904 N Druid Hills Rd. Suite 247 Decatur GA 30033 404 590 4769 Savannah Hydroponics & Organics 4107 Eighth Street, Suite C Garden City, GA 31408 912-349-4030 Atlantis Hydroponics 5182-B Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, GA 30071 770.558.1346 HAWAII Eco-Island Supply 810 Haiku Road, #394 Haiku, HI 96708 808-575-9171 Aqua Plant Hawaii / Kahala Hydroponics 4224 Wailae, Suite 1A, Honolulu, HI 96816 808-735-8665 Green Hands of Aloha 1713 Mary Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 808-847-4263 Ohana Greenhouse & Garden Supply 300 Hukilike Street, #2M, Kahalui, HI 96732 808-871-6393 Aiyah’s Garden 4558 kukui st. kapa’a, Hi. 96746 Aiyah’s Garden 3-3122 Kuhio Hwy. unit B-2 Lihue, Hi. 96766 808 245 2627

Gardinside 618 S. Rt. 59 suite 104 Naperville, IL 60540 630-276-9885 ____________________________ Green Fields 8137 N. Milwaukee, Niles, IL 60714 847-965-5056 ____________________________

Aerostar Global 824 South Kay Avenue, Addison, IL 60101 Brew and Grow 181 Crossroads Parkway, Bolingbrook, IL 60194 847-885-8282 Let it Grow - Carbondale West Main Street, Carbondale, IL 62908 573-450-5401 Versaponics.COM Box 166 West Main St. Carbondale, IL62901 573-450-5401 Alternative Garden Supply 615 Industrial Drive, Unit A Cary, IL 60013 800-444-2837 Brew and Grow 3625 N. Kedzi Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618 773-463-7430

Atlantis Hydroponics 2561 West Point Avenue, College Park, GA 30337 678-510-0032 ____________________________

____________________________

Fertile Ground 463 West MacArthur Drive, Cottage Hills, IL 62018 618-259-5500 Brew and Grow- Crystal Lake 176 W. Terra Cotta Ave. Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-301-4950 ____________________________

Midwest Hydroganics 20647 Renwick Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403 815-838-0100 ____________________________

Autumn Bloom Alternative Indoor Gardening 1020 Derby Street Pekin, Illinois 61554 309-642-6943 ____________________________ Grow Shop of Peoria 2621 N University Peoria, IL 61604 (309)-299-0953 wix.com/growshoppeoria/growshoppeoria GroUp Gardening 221 N. 5TH St. Pekin, IL 61554 309-349-4407 Aerogro 502 N Prospect suite 18 Bloomington, IL, 61704 Prairie House Garden Center 15151 South Harlem Avenue, Orland, IL 60462 708-687-3131 Brew and Grow 3224 South Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61109 815-874-5700 Brew and Grow 359 W. Irving Park Road Unit E, Roselle, IL 60172 630-894-4885 Organic Garden Center 9223 Skokie Blvd.

Skokie, IL 60077 847-675-2722 ____________________________

Inc.

Goldman’s Grow Shop 910 Greenwood Road, Glenview, IL 60025 847-657-7250 ____________________________

Grow Masters 4641 Old Grand Ave. Gurnee, Il. 60031 224-399-9877 ____________________________ Big Grow Hydroponics 9225 Trinity Drive, Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 847-854-4450 Grow Big Hydroponics 7817 B North 2nd Street, Manchesney Park, IL 61115 815-637-4769

Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 3427 Old Chatman Road, Springfield, IL 62704 217-341-0821 Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 2110 North Grand Ave Springfield , IL, 62702 217-341-0821 ____________________________ Kentuckiana Hydroponic Garden Supply 632 Eastern Blvd, Unit B Clarksville IN, 47129 812-725-8005 kentuckianahydro.com Water Works Indoor Gardening 1900 South Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62703 217-553-6929

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

193

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ____________________________

KANSAS Green Circle Hydroponics 6890 W. 105th Street, Overland Park, KS 66212 913-642-3888

Midwest Hydroganics 949 W Irving Park Rd. Streamwood IL 60107 630-483-1600 ____________________________

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

INDIANA ____________________________

BWGS-IN 1400 Hancel Pkwy., Mooresville, IN 46158 800-316-1306 ____________________________ Sunleaves Garden Products 7854 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 888-464-9676 ____________________________

Worm’s Way Indiana 7850 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 800-598-8158 ____________________________

Worm’s Way Mail Order 7850 North State Road 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 800-274-9676 ____________________________ Kentuckiana Hydroponic Garden Supply 632 Eastern BLVD, Unit B Clarksville, IN 47129 812-725-8005 www.kentuckianahydro.com Frogs Lilly Pad, The 706 Citation Road, Carmel, IN 46032 317-846-4610 Hops & Harvest 4616 E. DuPont Road, Suite Q, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 260-918-3035 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 1336 East Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-780-8020 Magic Bulb Garden Center 6229 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-202-2852 Maximum Grow Gardening 6117 E Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-359-GROW (4769) Next Generation Gardening & Hydroponics 6805 Madison Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-786-0066 nggandh.com ____________________________

Five Point Gardens 56555 Oak Road, South Bend, IN 46619 574-287-9232 ____________________________

194

Worm’s Way Kentucky 1360 Donaldson Hwy. Suite A, Erlanger, KY 41018 800-669-2088 ____________________________ Grow Shop, The of Lexington 2320 Palumbo Drive, Suite 130, Lexington, KY 40509 859-268-0779 Louisville Hydroponics 3471 Taylor Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40215 502-366-4000 New Earth Garden Center 9810 Taylorsville Road, Louisville, KY 40299 800-462-5953 The Wine-N-Vine Inc. 1524 East McGalliard RD. Muncie IN. 47303 765) 282-3300 Bluegrass Organic Grow Shop 125 Quinn Dr., Nicholasville, KY 40356 859 887 0677 LOUISIANA Geaux Hydroponics!

2126 O’Neal Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225-751-4769 Laughing Buddha Nursery 4516 Clearview Parkway, Metairie, LA 70006 504-887-4336 Urban Organics 285 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70117 504-352-4709 Ourcrazydeals Hydroponics 201 Angus Drive, Yungsville, LA 70592 337-303-6146 MAINE The Urban Garden Center 600 Wilson St. Brewer, ME 04412 207-989-2020 LiquidSun of Maine 51West Gray Rd. Gray, ME 04039 207-657-8033 Natures Palate Indoor Garden Store 1321 Mercer Rd ( rte2) Mercer, Maine 04957 877-587-4150 207-587-4150 ____________________________

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

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply Maine178 Rand Rd. Portland, ME 04102 Phone 207-899-4387 -------------------------------------------The Urban Garden Center 659 Warren Ave Portland, ME 04103 1-207-347-2350 Here We Grow 30 Parsons St. Presque Isle, ME 04769 207-SOY-BEAN (769-2326) Green Thumb Indoor Gardening 19 Stage Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 207-938-5909 New England Horticulture Supply 125 John Roberts Road Suite 1 South Portland, ME 04106 207-899-0510 newenglandhorticultersupply.com Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Road, Topsham, ME 04086 207-373-0990 Greenlife Garden Supply 611 US Rt. 1 York, ME 03909 207-363-0844 MARYLAND East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd Street, Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-9236 Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Road, Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 12130 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852 240-551-4625 Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901 MASSACHUSETTS Grow it Green 122 Pulaski Boulevard Bellingham MA 02019 508-883-GROW Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Road, Unit 4, Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966 GYOstuff – Grow Your Own 2400 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140 617-945-1654 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 29 Washington Street, Route 1 Foxboro, MA 02035 800-660-6977 Here We Grow 123 Russell St. (Rt. 9) Hadley, MA 01035 413-584-FARM (3276) LiquidSun® MA 8 Lynwood Avenue, Holyoke, MA 01040 413-539-6875

____________________________

INDOOR GARDEN CENTER

Rootdown Hydroponics Indoor Garden Center 236 Mystic Ave. Medford MA 01255 781-874-1693 ____________________________ Green Path Garden Supply 276 West Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532 508-393-4181 ____________________________

Evergreen Garden Center 216 Newbury St. Peabody MA 01960 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 560 Boston Turnpike (Rt.9) Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-845-4477 ____________________________

New England Hydroponics 15 D College Hwy. (Rt. 10), Southampton, MA 01073 888-529-9025 ___________________________

Worm’s Way Massachusetts 121 Worc-Providence Turnpike, Sutton, MA 01590 800-284-9676 ____________________________ MICHIGAN ___________________________

Flo-N-Grow Hydroponics Co. 214 North 2nd Street Niles, MI 49120 (269) 683-1877 www.FNGhydro.com ____________________________ Get Growing Urban Garden Centre 142 S. Main St Adrian MI 49221 U Can Grow Hydro 2247 W. Liberty Ann Arbor MI 48103 Hydro Vision 11820 Belleville Belleville, MI 48111 (734) 325-6210 Growers Outlet 7720 Clyde Park SW Byron Center, MI 49513 616-878-4444 A Plus Hydroponics of Michigan LLC 9750 Cherry Valley Ave SE Caledonia MI 49316 (616) 891-0706

Hydro Vision 5844 N. Shelton Rd. Canton, MI 48187 (734) 335-6818 Absolute Hydro & Grow Centre 2583 Union Lake Rd., Commerce Township, MI 48382 248-937-8664 HydroMaster 36345 Groesbeck Hwy Clinton Twp, MI 48035 586-792-0277 Granny Green Thumbs 103 W. Grand River Flowerville MI 48836 Hydro Grow Room 15201 N. Holly Road, Unit B Holly, MI 48442 248-369-8333 ____________________________

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 611 Main st.

Norway, Michigan 49870 (906)563-1518 ____________________________

Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 6540 Allen Road, Allen Park, MI 48101 313-383-1766 ____________________________ Gro Blue Indoor Gardening Supplies 270 W. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-913-2750 Grow Show, The 4095 Stone School Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734-677-0009; 734-677-0509 HotHydro® 5245 Jackson Road, Suite F Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-761-5040; 877-893-0716 Homelight Gardens 3471 S. Huron Road, Bay City, MI 48706 989-922-0088 J&L Growco 206 S. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 231-796-1528 Greenway Gardens 916 W 13th St Cadillac, Mi,49601 231-775-7075 Hydro Vision 303 W 14 Mile Rd. Clawson, MI 48017 248-435-2250 ___________________________

Cultivation Station 3 Inc. 46912 Gratiot, Chesterfield, MI 48051 586-949-7453 ___________________________ H2O Grow Supply 3364 Arent Ct Coloma, MI 49038 269-468-3890 Van Hydro 7480 N State, Davison, MI 48423 810-653-8267

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

Hydro Giant 14455 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI ____________________________

Cultivation Station – Eastern Market, The 2518 Market Street, Detroit, MI 48207 313-394-0441 ____________________________

Hydro Giant 21651 W. 8 Mile Rd. Detroit, MI (8Mile & Lahser) 313-387-7700 313-216-8888 ____________________________ Hydro Heaven 73647 W 8th Mile Road, Detroit, MI 48235 313-861-0333; 877-823-2076 ____________________________

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

Urban Gardening Center, The 2520 22nd Street, Detroit, MI 48216 313-898-0200 ____________________________

Superior Growers Supply 4870 Dawn Avenue, East Lansing, MI 48823 517-332-2663 ____________________________ Sunnyside Hydroponics 24930 Gratiot Avenue, Eastpoint, MI 48021 586-777-2528 Hydro Vision 495 Fenway Dr. Fenton, MI 810-714-1719 ___________________________

____________________________

Growco Garden Supply 1042 Michigan Street, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 877-939-6900 ____________________________ Home Grown Hydroponix 5333 Plainfield Suite C, Grand Rapids MI 49525, 616-361-2924 ____________________________

Horizen Hydroponics 1614 Leonard Street, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 866-791-1664 ____________________________

Hydroharrys- HP 24047 Dequindre Road Hazel Park, MI 48030 248-541-0099 ____________________________ Garden Doctor 2974 28th St. SW Grandville MI 49418 616-530-2500 ____________________________ Hydro Grow Room 15201 N Holly Rd Unit B Holly MI, 48430 248-369-8333 ____________________________

Flower Factory, The 2223 East Highland Road Highland, MI 48356 248-714-9292 ____________________________ Hydro Vision 2858 E Highland rd Highland, MI 48356 248-714-5556 Holland Hydroponic Outlet 587-40 East 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423 616-298-7395 HGR Garden Supply 15231 N. Holly Rd. Holly MI 48442 248 369 8333

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

Green Forest Indoor Garden Supply, LLC. 2555 N. State(M-66) Rd. Ionia, MI 48846 616-523-6111 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 1745 West Main St. Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-978-8697 ____________________________ Horizen Hydroponics 4646 W. Main Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-567-3333 Kalamazoo Indoor Garden 450 W. Maple, Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-344-2550 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 2815 East Grand River Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 (517) 580-0555 ____________________________ Hills Hydro 1290 S. Lapeer Rd., Lake Onion, MI 48360 248-693-5747 Horizen Hydroponics 5425 W. Saginaw Highway Lansing, MI 48917 517-323-ROOT ____________________________

Superior Growers Supply Inc. 3928 West Saginaw Highway Lansing, MI 48917 517-327-1900 ____________________________ Hills Hydro 700 Main St. Ste III Lapeer, MI 48446 810-245-8687 ____________________________

____________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 705 S., Loxley Houghton Lake, MI 48629 989-422-2800 ____________________________

OÊFÊÊÊGÊAÊRÊDÊEÊNÊÊÊCÊIÊTÊY

The Grow Shop of Garden City 28505 Ford Road Garden City, MI 48135 734-956-5400 ___________________________

____________________________

Hydro Vision 1247 e Grand River Howell, MI 48843 517-552-4965 ____________________________

Superior Growers Supply, Inc. 2731 East Grand River Howell, MI 48843 517-376-6843 ____________________________

Superior Growers Supply 292200 Seven Mile West Livonia, MI 48152 248-473-0450 ____________________________ Northern Lights Hydroponic and Garden Supply 29090 Campbell rd.

Madison Heights, MI 48071 248-439-6269 BIg Creek Hydroponics 555 Old Little Lake Road, Marquette, MI 49855 906-249-5297 Indoor Garden Center 236 Mystic Ave. Medford, MA 02155 781-874-1693 Stealth Hydro 14630 King Dr. Milan, MI 48160 734 961 4333

Big Blue Hydroponics 590 Ottawa St. Muskegon, MI 49441 231-571-9400 Growing Consultant 2260 Apple Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49442 231-773-5600 Green Lantern H2O 1383 E. Laketon Ave Muskegon, Mi 49442 greenlanternh2o@yahoo.com www.greenlanternh2o.com 231-722-0420 Sunshine Supply Co. 5800 East Pickard Street, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-775-3700 Flo-N-Grow.

214 N. 2nd Street, Niles, MI 49120 269-683-1877 HGR Garden Supply 200 E. Main St, Owosso MI 48867 989 472 4999 Super Grow 288 W. MONTCALM PONTIAC, MI 48342 248-24SUPER (78737) Green Earth Hydroponics 8127 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002 269-342-4190 Hydroponics Highway Inc. 2708 14th Ave. Port Huron MI, 48060 810-982-4769 Hydro Vision 66783 Gratiot Ave. Richmond, MI 48062 586-430-1956 Growers Edge 175 Marcell Dr Rockford MI 49341 Hills Hydro 896 S. Rochester Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 248-650-4937 Green Thumb Hydroponics and Organic Indoor Supply 8460 Algoma Suite G Rockford MI 49341 616 884 5500 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 28000 Groesbeck Highway Roseville, Michigan 48066 586-435-2335 ____________________________ Home Grown Hydroponics 4880 Gratiot Rd., Ste # 2 Saginaw MI 48638 989 781 1930 ____________________________

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

Hydro Giant 19363 Eureka Rd, Southgate, MI 734.281.8888 ___________________________ Hydro Vision 22180 Pontiac Trail South Lyon, MI 48178 248-435-2268

____________________________

Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 23529 Little Mack Avenue, St. Clair, MI 48080 586-775-9485 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 7889 Telegraph Road.

Taylor, MI 48180 313-908-7554 ____________________________ Hydro Grow, The 8210 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI 48180 313-633-0641 Great Lakes Green Horticultural Supply 757 S. U.S. Highway 131 Three Rivers, MI 49093 269-278-130 Grow Store, The 90 N U.S. Highway 31 South , Traverse City, MI 49685-7923 231-421-5191 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 720 South Garfield Ave. Traverse City, MI 49686 231-668-6913 ____________________________ Wild Child 7740 M 72 East Traverse City, MI 49690 866-711-GROW Hydro Vision 1910 West rd Trenton, MI 48183 734-301-3745 ____________________________

Hydroharrys – WL 1138 E. West Maple Road Walled Lake, MI 48390 248-896-0099 ____________________________ Beste's Indoor/Outdoor Garden Supply 21410 Schoenherr Warren, MI 48089 586 776-1794 Hydro King Indoor Garden Supply 32000 Van Dyke Ave Warren MI 48093 Indoor Garden Superstore 2570 Dixie Highway, Waterford Twp., MI 48328 248-673-2200; 877 22 HYDRO ___________________________

Light Green Water 3661 Highland Road, Waterford, MI 48329 248-681-0001 ___________________________ Bubonic Hydroponics 38540 Michigan Ave Wayne MI, 48184 734-331-2316

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

195

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ___________________________

Hydrospot 34236 Michigan Avenue, Wayne, MI 48184 734-722-1285 ___________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 3218 W. Houghton Avenue West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-8800 ____________________________ B&B Hydro Supply 28974 Warren Rd Westland MI 48185 G.C. II 1006 E. Colby St. Suite A Whitehall, MI 49417 231-893-2400 ___________________________

Indoor Eden 9281 East-M 36 Whitmore MI 48189 810-355-1465 ____________________________ AAA Hydroponics LLC 22 50th Street Wyoming, MI 49504 616-249-8338 Urban Garden Supply 4516 Pasadena Ave. Flint, MI 48504 810-733-0420 Urban Garden Supply 3410 S. Dort Hwy Flint, MI 48507 810-875-9580 ____________________________

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

Brew and Grow 8302 Highway 65 NE., Minneapolis, MN 55432 763-780-8191 Interior Gardens 115 -1620 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 800-498-4178; 612-870-9077 ____________________________

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

American Garden Supply 601-6th Avenue, North, Princeton, MN 55371 763-631-0543Q ____________________________ Still-H2O Inc. 14375 North 60th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-2822 Eco Garden Supply 800 Transfer Door 25 in rear St. Paul, MN 55114 651-647-1896 MISSISSIPPI Indoor Garden Shop LLC 1310 Bienville Boulevard, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228-875-3725 MISSOURI Versaponics LTD 879 South Kingshighway Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63703 573-450-5401 www.versaponics.com ____________________________

HYDROGARDENS Heartland Hydrogardens 705 Vandiver Drive, Suite G Columbia, MO 65202 573-474-4769 ____________________________ Grow Your Own Hydroponics 3617 Saint John Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-241-2122 ____________________________

Stealth Hydro 15 E. Cross Street, Ypsilanti, MI 48198 866-998-1916 ____________________________ MINNESOTA Duluth Hydroponics 26 W 1st Street Duluth, MN 55802 218-341-7253 The Interior Tomato, LLC 519 N. Central Ave. Duluth, MN 55087 218-260-5167 www.theinteriortomato.com ____________________________

Grower’s Edge 175 Marcell Drive Rockford, MI, 49341 ____________________________ Let It Grow - Springfield 2519 E. Kearney Street, Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-GROW U-Grow 1724 North, 13th Street, St. Louis, MO 63106 314-452-6368 ____________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

____________________________

____________________________

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

Paradigm Gardens 8949 J Street, Suite 5, Omaha, NE 68127 402-339-4949 ____________________________

MONTANA Heightened Harvests 3103 Harrison Ave. Butte, MT 59701 406-494-4222 Magic City Organic & Hydroponic Supply 812 Central Billings, MT 59102 406-245-LEAF(5323) One World – Life Products 906 Broadwater Billings MT 59101 406 839 9969 Heightened Harvests 3103 Harrison Avenue, Suite B Butte, MT 59701 Alpengrow Nursery Supplies 238 Highway 93 S., Eureka, MT 59917 406-882-4496 ____________________________

NEVADA

Butteopia 127 Main Street, Butte, Montana 59701 1-406-782-8476 ____________________________ Big Sky Garden Supply 528 West Idaho, Kallispell, MT 59901 406-755-1465 Box of Rain Indoor Garden Center 860 N. Meridian Road B-19, Kalispell, MT 59901 406-755-RAIN (7246) Cornucopia Grow Your Own 127 Stoner Creek Road Lakeside, MT 59922 406-709-1076 Dr. Green Thumbs 1106 West Park, Livingston, MO 59047 406-222-7440 Bizzy Beez LLP 5875 Highway 93 S, Whitefish, MT 59937 406-863-9937 NEBRASKA Bodhi Organic Garden Supply 1438 S1 St. Ste 6 Lincoln, NE 68502 402 438 6785 Patio-Ponics 3255 Cornhusker Highway, Suite 4 Lincoln, NE 68504 402-466-9218 ____________________________

Carson Valley Hydroponics 2520 Empire Ranch Road, Carson City, NV 89701 775-884-4769 Lorraine Ink 290 Spear Court, Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-7757 Hydro Store, The 1014 W. Sunset Road, Henderson, NV 89014 702-434-7365 AAA Indoor Organic Garden SuperCenter 2101 S. Decatur Boulevard, #21, Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-450-4769 ___________________________

Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 3111 South Valley View, (on Desert Inn West of Valley View) Suite V103 Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-257-4769 ____________________________ Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 7850 Dean Martin Dr. Suite 506 Las Vegas,NV 89139 702-247-4769 All American Hydroponics 2675 East Patrick Lane, Unit 8, Las Vegas, NV 89120 702-894-9888 Best Hydroponic Supply 6818 W Cheyenne, Las Vegas, NV 89108 702-750-9300 Grow Hydro Gardens 5870 s Decatur Suite 11 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702-997-7053 Local 866-568-4769 Toll Free GrowHydroGardens.com Hydro Store, The 7145 W. Ann Road, Las Vegas, NV 89130 702-434-9376 Nevada Hydroponics 4700 B Maryland, Suite 1, Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-798-2852 Anything Grows 190 West Moana Lane, Reno, NV 89509 775-828-1460 Everything Green Hydroponics Box 34869 Reno, Nevada 89533 The Hydro Store 121 Woodland Ave #160 Reno NV 89523 775 787 2760

The Beez Kneez Garden Supply 180 Emerald St., Keene, NH 03431 603-903-1488 info@thebeezkneezgardensupply.com www.thebeezkneezgardensupply.com ____________________________

Hydro101 545 Hooksett Rd. #24 Manchester, NH 03104 603-782-8894 ____________________________ Natural Roots Hydroponics 24 Crown St. Nashua NH 03060 603 204 5528 Four Seasons Horticulture Supply 2076 White Mountain Hwy. North Conway, NH 03860 603-733-5444 NEW JERSEY Garden State Hydroponics 511 Avenel Street, Avenel, NJ 07001 888-300-8711 Bergen County Hydroponics 70 Essex Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-2001 ____________________________

greentouch2 HYDROPONI C S

I NC .

Green Touch 2 Hydroponics Inc. 888 Route 33, Unit 1, Hamilton, NJ 08619 609-570-8829 ____________________________ East Coast Horticultural Supply 1652 Hurffville Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 856-228-5290 77HYDRO 37 Fairfield Place, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 877-774-9376 Claraqua 4 Redwood Court, West Windsor, NJ 08550 NEW MEXICO AHL Year Round Garden Supply 1051 San Mateo Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 505-255-3677 ___________________________

All Seasons Gardening 3600 Osuna Road, Suite 406 Alburquerque, NM 87109 505-508-4292 ____________________________ Common Shaman 1319 San Mateo N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-255-6463 ____________________________

NEW HAMPSHIRE Indoor Gardening 10 NE 3rd Street, Faribault, MN 55021 507-209-1546 ___________________________

196

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

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Advanced Hydro-Ponics 10711 Mockingbird Drive, Omaha, NE 68127 (108th and L-Q) 402-991-6630 ____________________________

Greenlife Garden Supply 885 Second Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-782 8259 www.greenlifegardensupply.com

All Seasons Gardening 1228 Parkway, Suite E Sante Fe, NM 87507 505-438-GROW ____________________________

Santa Fe Hydroponics 821 W. San Mateo Road, Suite 4, Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-467-8454 NEW YORK Organica: Garden Supply & Hydroponics 296 Delaware Ave., Albany, NY 12209 518-618-7666 The Grow Room 32-32 49th Street Astoria, NY 11103 718-218-GROW (4769) Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 19 Front Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-2005; 800-850-4769 The Grape Vine 4020 Hempstead Turnpike Bethpage,NY,11714 516-731-1100 Bronx Hydro & Garden 39 Bruckner Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10454 718-993-3787 Bklyn Hydro & Garden 316 McGuiness Blvd Brooklyn NY 11222 718-383-0095 Brooklyn Farms 51Hicks Street St. Brooklyn, NY 11231 347-725-3491 Indoor Outdoor Gardener 8223 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-836-2402 Hydroponics of Buffalo 1497 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216 716-838-3545 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 340 West at 59, Central Nyack, NY 10960 California Hydroponics 27 Corporate Circle, East Syracuse, NY 13057 315-432-9387 Upstate Hydroponics 2026 Lake Rd unit B Elmira, NY 14903 607-483-9199 ____________________________

FutureGarden Inc. 59 Central Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-420-0884 ____________________________ Sunflower Supplies, LLC 176-18 Central Ave Farmingdale, NY 11735 631-651-8281 East Coast Hydroponics 14649 Horace Harding Exp, Flushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880 Healthy Harvest Organics and Hydro 163 Broadway, Fort Edwart, NY 12828 518-480-4698 Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 10 Saratoga Ave S. Glen Falls, NY 12803 518-798-820 Greentree Garden Supply 606 Elmira Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850 607 272-3666 Mike’s Nursery and Grower Supplies 199 E. Fairmount Ave, Lakewood, NY 14750 716-763-1612

Hudson Valley Hydroponics 217 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3633 ____________________________

The Green Box 495 9th Avenue NY NY 10018 212 967 4777 thegreenboxhydro.com ____________________________ Sunlight Solutions Hydroponics 2045 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Suite 13, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 888-GROWBOX The Grow Room 8 Bridge Street, Nyack, NY 10960 800-449-9630 Revolution Hydroponics 309 West State St. Olean NY 14760 716.373.Grow (4769) Mor Gro Hydroponics 5680 State Route 104 E Oswego , NY 13126 315-877-8725 Environmental Gardens 8 John Walsh Boulevard, Suite 310 Peekskills, NY 10566 800-254-0507; 914-736-6676 Harvest Moon Hydroponics Henrietta Townline Plaza, 3047 West Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623 716-865-7353 Hydro Garden Center 1069B Lyell Avenue, Rochester, NY 14606 1-800-277-1322 Sunset Hydroponics & Home Brewing 1590 West Ridge Road, Rochester, NY 14615 866-395-9204 KG Garden Supply 4575 Commercial Drive New Hartford, NY 13413 877-KG-HYDRO

Fifth Season Gardening Company 21 B Westside Dr. Asheville NC 28806 828-225-5007 Fifth Season Gardening Company 45 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801 828-253-4112 Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 South Greensboro Street, Carrboro, NC 27510 919-932-7600 ___________________________

BWGS-NC 4045 Perimeter West Drive,Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28214 800-316-1306 ___________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 2712 B Freedom Drive Charlotte, NC 28208 704-697-0911 ___________________________ Flow & Grow Hydroponics & Organic Garden Center 4521 Cumberland Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 910-423-FLOW (3569) Fifth Season Gardening Company 1616 D-3 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27408 336-271-3373 Good Harvest Garden Center 629 Oakridge Farm Hwy. Mooresville NC 28115 704-658-9136 Fifth Season Gardening Company 5619-A Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606 919-852-4747 New Age Gardens 2236A US Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-299-9989 ____________________________

LiquidSun of New York 1702 Fiero ave Rotterdam, NY 12150 518-952-4654 Hydroponics Shops of America 2606 Erie Boulevard, Syracuse, NY 13224 315-251-2516 ____________________________

Green Zone Hydroponics 2148 Niagara Falls Blvd.

Tonawanda, NY. 14150 716-693-9663 ____________________________ Harvest Moon Hydroponics 147 Fourth Street, Troy, NY 10960 Follow The Sun 1185 B Yonkers Ave Yonkers, N.Y 10704 914-237-2760 NORTH CAROLINA Advanced Hydroponic Garden 55 Shiloh Road #6 Asheville, NC 28803 1 (828) 277-3488

Campbells Indoor Gardening Supplies 1721 Greenville Road Bristolville, OH 44402 330-889-0049 Magic Home Gardens 209 Cemetery Road, Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-837-2440 ___________________________

CincyPonics 3314 Harrison Ave. Cincinnati, Ohio 45211 513-661-3886 ___________________________ Dumont Seed Co. 619 30th ST. N.W. Canton, ohio 44709 330-492-0204 Dayton Hydroponics 4920 Provident Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45246 513-942-7111

OHIO Akron Garden Center 434 W Wilbeth Road, Akron, OH 44314 330-724-2700 Summit Hydroponics 1030 Kenmore Boulevard Akron, OH 44314-2114 330-753-5222 ____________________________

Purely Hydroponic, LLC 1507 Lear Industrial Pkwy.

Avon, OH 44011 866-787-5060 ____________________________

Hydro Gardens Wholesale 1144 N Memorial Drive Lancaster, OH 43130 855-210-5599 ____________________________ Carefree Garden Center 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 CropKing 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 USA Hydrogarden 7450 Industrial Pkwy, Ste. A Lorain, Ohio 44053 440-282-4880 The Grow Shop 165 Davids St. Marion OH 43302 740-223-7467 ____________________________

Eastside Hydroponics 834 Ohio Pike #318 Cincinnati, Ohio 45245 513-528-4769 Eastside Hydroponics 550 Ohio Pike #136 Cincinnati, OH 45255 513-528-GROW Kissed by the Sun Hydroponic 10740 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 513-769-0159 Cleveland Garden Center Inc. 727 East 185th Street, Cleveland, OH 44119 216-481-7868 Grow Wizard, The 5700 Denison Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102 216-961-2500 Herb-N-Garden Center 14901 Puritas Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44135 216-252-2001 Garden Indoors of Ohio 4720 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 800-833-6868

All Season Hydroponics 890 South Kerr Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28410 ____________________________ Progressive Gardens 6005 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-395-1156

____________________________

Magic Home Garden 4538 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 614-263-2440 Miami Valley Hydro 8220 N. Dixie Dr. Dayton OH 45414 937-280-4468 Gardening-Indoor 48977 Calcutta-Smiths Ferry Rd., East Liverpool OH 43920 330-932-1023 Garden Connections 3341 Centerpoint Dr. Grove City OH 43123 614 871 0707 Advanced Hydrorganics Indoor Garden Center 5204 Darrow Road, Hudson, OH 44236 234-380-1287 Sweet Greens 5540 Brecksville Road Independence, OH 44131 800-421-7084

Urban Gardens 671 E. Center Street Marion, OH 43302 740-375-2800 ____________________________ Top Garden Products 8600 East Avenue Suite C. Mentor, OH 44060 440-290-8773 Green Garden Indoor Garden Center 1664 North Main St. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-494-1234 Pet Finatics LLC 3150 Navarre Ave Suite A Oregon OH 43616 Indoor Gardens 1222 Hill Road, North, Pickerington, OH 43147 614-866-6065 ____________________________

Trinity Hydro Organics 465 Woodman Drive Riverside, OH 45431 937-252-GROW ____________________________ 4 Ever Green Grow Shop 5228 Detroit Rd. Sheffield, Ohio 44035 440-934-2664 Toledo Hydroponics Ltd. 855 S. Holland-Sylvania Road, Suite 2 Toledo, OH 43615 877-893-0716 ____________________________

Plant Lighting Hydroponics 2201-A Pinnacle Parkway Twinsburg, OH 44087 888-258-0670 ____________________________

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

197

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors Greenleaf Hydroponics 1805 Elm Road, Warren, OH 44483 330-372-1039 Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, West Carrolton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 Gardening-Indoor 9215 Market St. Youngstown (North Lima) OH 44452 330 758 0272 Harvest Moon 9215 Market Street, Youngstown (North Lima), OH 44452 800-776-8399 Indoor Garden Worx 906 Blue Avenue, Zanesville, OH 43701 866-900-9679 OKLAHOMA Tulsa County Hydro-Organics 1928 W. Albany, Broken Arrow, OK 74012 918-259-HYDRO AAAAHA! Hydroponics Unlimited P.O. Box 74, Oakhurst, OK 74050 Organics OKC Garden Supply 3620 N Pennsylvania Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-528-GROW The OKC Urban Gardener 3711 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-521-9300 Urban Garden 3141 E. 15th Street, Tulsa, OK 74104 918-289-0018 OREGON ____________________________

Aqua Serene 465 Applegate Way, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-7600 ____________________________

Astoria Indoor Garden Supply 1343 Duane St. Unit C Astoria OR 97103 503 468 0606 ____________________________ Rogue Silicates Inc. POB 21, Azalea, OR 97410 541-837-8590 B.I.G.S. 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 401, Bend, OR 97702 541-385-5222 Herb N’ Jungle Hydroponics 930 SE Textron Drive, Bend, OR 97702 541-382-4010 Northern Light and Garden Beaverton 9290 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-297-7331 Westcoast Organic and Hydroponic Supply 12410 SE 282nd Avenue, Unit C Boring, OR 97009 503-766-4106 The Good Earth Organics 30088 Redwood Highway, Cave Junction, OR 97523 541-592-4496

198

Anthony’s Garden & Light Supply 93779 B Troy Lane, Coos Bay, OR 97420 541-266-8822 Corvallis Hydroponics & Organics 5490 SW Philomath Boulevard, Corvallis, OR 97333 541-738-2820 ____________________________

Aqua Serene 2836 W. 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97402 541-302-9073 ____________________________

Aurora Innovations PO Box 22041, Eugene, OR 97402 866-376-8578 ____________________________ SunInside Gardening Co. 665 Conger, Unit F, Eugene, OR 97402 541-686-9966 Advanced Indoor Gardens 17831 se 82nd drive Gladstone, OR 97027 503 305 6341 Northern Light and Garden Grants Pass 1203 Rogue River Highway, Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-1700 Paradise Supply LLC 560 NE. “F” Street, Unit C, Grand Pass, OR 97526 541-955-7293 Vital Organix 932-B SE “M” Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-226-9283 ____________________________

Oregon Rainforest Co. 19949 E. Burnside Street, Gresham, OR 97233503-465-9909 ____________________________ Healthy Harvest 1635 SE Tualatin Valley Hwy., Hillsboro, OR 97123 503-640-0995 ____________________________

In & Out Gardens 93484 Hwy 99 South Junctin City OR 97448 541-234-2342 ____________________________ Basin Indoor Gardening 417 N. Spring St. Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-273-2023 Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 1845 S W Hwy. 101 Ste. 3 Lincoln OR 97367 USA 541 994 7070 H2organic LCC 620 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503-434-6107

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Green Thumb Hydrogarden and 6.2Everybody’s Garden Center 2701 SE 14th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202 800-669-5483 Garden Spout, The 4532 South East 63rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97206 503-788-4769 Homegrown Garden Supply 7112 NE Gilsan Street, Portland, OR 97213 877-EZ2-GROW Island Flowers & Indoor Garden Center 909 N. Tomahawk Island Drive, Suite 103, Portland, OR 97217 503-546-3185 Lights Distributing 9843 SW 55th Avenue, Portland, OR 97219 Rain or Shine 13126 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230 503-255-1981 Roots Garden Supply 5426 North Gay Avenue, Portland, OR 97217 503-285-4768 Urban Flora 2865 South East, Portland, OR 97214 503-236-3344 BIGS Warehouse 2606 SW 4th Street, Unit B Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-8886 Indoor Garden Supply 536 SW 6th Street (rear alley), Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-7750 DC Hydroponics & Organics 7275 Green Siding Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-679-3700 Roseburg Hydroponics 853 SE Stephens Street, Roseburg, OR 97470 541-229-1420 Indoor Garden Center 1697 SE 25th Street, Salem, OR 97302 503-566-7888 Northern Light and Garden Salem 1915 Lancester Drive, Salem, OR 97305 503-364-4769 Cascade Horticulture 39570 Pioneer Boulevard, Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-8242 Moonshine Park Farm 135 South East 62nd, Unit F South Beach, OR 97366 541-444-2298 J-N-B Hydro 2 Go 155 West Central Avenue, Sutherlin, OR 97479 541-459-9211 Samurai Greenhouse Supply 32067 Old Hwy. 34 Tanget, OR 97389 541-928-3431 Grow America Garden Supply LLC 11511 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, OR 97223 503-841-6868 Pharmer Hydroponics 11135 SW Industrial Way Bldg 10-4 Tualatin, OR 97062 503-486-5751 PENNSYLVANIA Pocono Hydroponic Solutions 25 Route 611 Bartonsville, PA 18321 570-730-4544

Green Solutions Hydroponics 1700 Orange Street Berwick, PA 18603 570-752-1530 Garden Indoors of Pennsylvania 208 Route 13, Bristol, PA 19007 800-227-4567 422 GROW 1775 North Main Street Extension Butler, PA 16001-1327 724-561-3777 ___________________________

Full Bloom Hydroponics 84 South 24th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 888-872-3602 Gardening-Indoor 20550 Rt. #19 Cranberry Twp. Pitsburgh PA 16066 724 591 8086 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 2008 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-232-7030 Healthy Gardens and Supply 1012 Lincoln Avenue, Prospect Park, PA 19076 866-32-HYDRO

High Tech Garden Supply 20232 Route 19, Unit 6, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-473-1113 ___________________________ New Moon Indoor Garden Supply 20550 Route 19 Perry Highway, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-591-8086 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 830 Route 119, Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-1118 Buds to Blooms Garden and Supply Co., LLC 509 Orchard Avenue Kennett Square, PA 19348 484-860-8056 ____________________________

Northeast Hydroponics & Homebrewing 221 Scranton Carbondale Hwy. Scranton PA 18508 570-209-7924

The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 ____________________________ Flairform PO 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 215-395-6353 ____________________________

RH Distribution PO 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 888-545-8112 ____________________________ Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A East 28th Div Hwy Lititz Pa 17543 717-626-7007 Hydro Ponics of Harrisburg 310 South 10th Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043 877-684-3808 Always Green Garden Supply 4400 Old William Penn Hwy Ste. 106 Monroeville PA 15146 412-646-1243 New Stanton Hydro 150 Post Ave. New Stanton, PA. 15672 724-635-0297 Hydrofarm East 270 Canal Road Fairless Hills, PA 19030 888-780-4567 The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A East 28th Div Hwy Lititz Pa 17543 717-626-7007

Full Time Garden Supply 1011 Ritner Highway Shippensburg PA.17257 717-477-0350 www.fulltimegardensupply.com Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 9 North Main St. Washington, PA 15301 724-222-0200 Western Pennsylvania Innovative Gardening 1177 Pittsburgh Road, Suite 103 Valencia, PA 16059 724-903-0800 Organic Garden Center 800 Washington Blvd.

Williamsport, PA 17701 570-322-3120 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 450 Grim Lane, York,PA 17406 877-779-7111(Northeast) ____________________________ PA Hydroponics & Home Gardening Supply 20 Quaker Church Road, York Springs, PA 17372 717-528-4175 RHODE ISLAND Oakworld Garden Center 39 West Street, Barrington, RI 02806 401-245-5705 Solar Seed Hydroponics, Inc. 2406 Putman Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814 401-710-9010 Organically Grown 768 Atwood Ave Cranston, RI 02920 401-944-0549 Hydro-Earth 1243 Mineral Springs Avenue, North Providence, RI 02904 401-305-5520 The Organic Grow Hut 375 Putnam Pike- Ste 13 Smithfield, RI 02828 401-349-4141 South County Hydroponics 51 Old Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879 401-783-1733 Mother Nature Hydroponics 1268 Post Rd. Warwick RI 02888 401-780-0600 LiquidSun® RI 1179 Central Avenue, Pawtucket, MA 02861 401-722-2724

____________________________

Good To Grow 34 Nooseneck Hill Road, West Greenwich, RI 02817 401-392-3100 ____________________________ Growin’ Crazy 93 Kingston Road Wyoming, Rhode Island 02898 401-284-0810 SOUTH CAROLINA GreenSpirit Hydrogarden 1864 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-1GRO Skyes the Limit 455 B Fleming Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 843-566-2121 www.skyesthelimitsc.com 247 Garden Supply 535 D Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229 803-788-4445 The Urban Garden Hydroponics 9557 Two Notch Rd. Ste. E Columbia, SC 29223 803-788-9313 Okatie Organics and Hydroponics 138 Short Cut Rd. Ridgeland SC 29936 ____________________________

All Season Hydroponics 1350 Hwy. 501 Business, Store 3&4 Conway, SC 29526 843-347-9266 ____________________________ Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830 ____________________________

Greenspirit Hydrogardens 3600 Unite 1 Hwy.17 S. North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 843-361-7777 ____________________________ SOUTH DAKOTA

Green Earth Products Inc. 5700 Highway 79 S.,Unit 1, Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-1307 ____________________________ TENNESSEE Innovative Hydroponic Supply Inc. 3286 North Park Blvd. Unit G Alcoa TN 37701 865 984 0280 Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643 Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Drive, Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Highway, Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318 Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Road, Suite 104, Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005 ____________________________ All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188 ____________________________

Worm’s Way Tennessee 901 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37072 800-397-4153 ____________________________ TEXAS Abundant Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 3101 Avenue E East, Arlington, TX 76011 817-649-0100 Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 4360 S.Congress Avenue, #310, Austin, TX 78745 512-444-2100 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Central Austin) 5126 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78756 512-459-4769 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (South Austin) 2125-A Goodrich Avenue, Austin, TX 78704 512-440-4769 Third Coast Horticulture Supplies 7010 Burnet Rd., Ste.A Austin, TX 78757 512 459 4353 Happy Harvest Hydroponics & Organic 1500 C rescent Drive, Suite 202 Carrollton, TX 75006 972-466-1300 GroGreen Hydroponics 4015 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-370-9984 Jolly Green Hydroponics (Greenhouse Horticultural Supplies) 13628 Neutron Road, Dallas, TX 75244 866-WE-JOLLY; 469-341-5555 Lone Star Hydroponics and Organics 1302 Motor Circle, Dallas, TX 75207 214-634-9376 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Dallas) 3400 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-744-4769 ____________________________

Organic Garden & Feed 3801 N Interstate Hwy 35,Suite126, Denton Texas 76207 940-381-9890 ____________________________

Earth Organics 1360 Lee Trevino Drive,Suite 105 El Paso, TX 79936 915-591-9500 Hydrofarm Central 950 Avenue S Grand Prairie, TX 75050-1133 800-634-9999 Airline Hydroponics P.O. Box 980904, Trader’s Village #363, Houston, TX 77098 713-942-0484 Botani Garden 15120 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX 77083 281-575-1999 Houston Discount Hydroponics 9384 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77063 713-464-9406 Hydroponic Nation 9001 Frey Road Houston TX 77034 713-943-1115 In-N-Out Garden Supply 11011 S Wilcrest Drive Ste K Houston, TX 77099 281-568-5265 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Houston) 7730 A Park Place Boulevard, Houston, TX 77087 713-641-4769 Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply 6125 West Sam Houston Parkway, North Suite 206 Houston, TX 77041 713-856-8425 Texas Growers Supply 5990 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E. #602, Humble, TX 77396 281-441-3739 Field of Dreams Indoor Growing Supplies 5302 Slide Road Unit B,Lubbock, TX 79414 806-793-2901 Hydro Mart 3841 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-6114 Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 5121 Crest Way Dr., Ste. 203 San Antonio, TX 78239 210-248-9309 www.bihydro.com ____________________________

Sol Organics & Hydroponics 1634 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210-366-9082 ____________________________

Innergrow Hydroponics 24451 Interstate Highway 20, Wills Point, TX 75169 866-475-4769 UTAH Wasatch Hydroponics 4050 South Howick, Suite 11E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107 801-716-4133 ____________________________

West VIRGINIA Panhandle Hydroculture 800 East Moler Ave. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-240-7587 Almost Heaven Hydroponics 3476 University Ave., Morgantown, WV 26505 304-598-5911 WASHINGTON ____________________________

Salt Lake Plant & Hydro 60 West 3300 S. #6 South Salt Lake, UT 84115 801-488-3200 ____________________________ VERMONT Greenthumb - Vermont 394 Route 15, Jericho, VT 05465 802-899-4323 Peak Hydroponic Garden Supplies 20 School Street, Plainfield, VT 05667 802-454-8000 LiquidSun® VT 1 Bellows Falls Road, (Route 5 North) Putney, VT 05158 802-387-1100 Green Thumb Gardening P.O. Box 235, Route 15, Underhill, VT 5489 800-564-9376 VIRGINIA Fifth Season Gardening Company 900 Preston Ave. Charlottesville VA 22903 434-293-2332 Clean & Green Technologies 196 Corning Drive, Christiansburg, VA 24073 866-694-1628 I Love Hydroponics 612 N. Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Lucky Roots 612 North Sheppard St. Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Blue Ridge Hydroponics & Home Brewing Company The Williamson Road Plaza, 5327 D Williamson Road Roanoke, VA 24012 540-265-2483

Island Horticulture Supply 8608 S March Point Rd. Anacortes WA 98221 360 293 0000 ____________________________ Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 6121 172nd Street NE #A, Arlington, WA 98223 360-474-1900 Belfair Garden & Lighting 24090 NE State Route 3 #F Belfair,WA 98528 360-275-2130 Green Gardens Distributing 12738 Bel-Red Road, Bellevue, WA 98005 425-454-5731 Northern Lights Gardening 4159 Hannegan Road, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-715-8585 Liquid Sunshine Hydroponics 5087 Lincoln Road, Blaine, WA 98230 Kitsap Garden & Lighting 2130 6th Street, Bremerton, WA 98312 360-377-1277 M & R Lighting Unit C 22914 Highway 410, Buckley, WA 98390 253-891-4190 Island Horticulture Supply 1500 Port Dr., Burlington, WA 98233 360 293 0000 www.islandhorticulture.com ____________________________

Inside-Out Garden Supply 6517 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22150 703-451-3259

Indoor Tropics 5930 Sunburst Lane #B Cashmere, WA 98815 509-470-7782 ___________________________

I Love Hydroponics 368 Newtown Road, #105, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-490-5425

Garden Smart 500 Bond Drive, Castlerock, WA 98611 360-274-7960

Hydroponics & Growlights 13400 Occoquan Road, Woodbridge, VA 22191 703-490-0700

Grow Center, The 615 South Fir DeerPark WA 99006 509-276-GROW

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

199

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors ____________________________

___________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Linda’s Gardening & Hydroponics 11522 Canyon Road East, Puyallup, WA 98373

Indoor Tropics 704 N. Wenas St. Ellensburg, WA 98926 509-933-4441 ___________________________ Healthy Grow Indoor Garden Supplies 10 SE Everett Mall Way Suite B Everett WA 98208 425-374-2227 ___________________________

253-531-9641 KP Indoor Garden Store 8912 Key Peninsula HWY N Lakebay, WA 98349 253-884-SURE (7873) ___________________________ InDoor Gardening

Renton Indoor Garden Center 207 Sunset Blvd. N, Building A, Renton, WA 98055 425-917-9000 Eco Enterprises 1240 NE 175th Street, #B

1158 Commerce

Shoreline, WA 98155

Longview WA, 98632

800-426-6937

360-353-3851

____________________________

Grow Center, The 2808 W Sprague Spokane WA 99202 509-456-GROW River City Hydroponics 1514 East Francis Avenue, Spokane, WA 99208 509-464-0246 Spokane Organic and Hydroponic Supply 4823 East Sprague Avenue E., Spokane Valley, WA 99212 509-534-4055 ___________________________

____________________________

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 5408 NE 88th Street, Building A, Vancouver, WA 98665 888-478-6544 Indoor Garden Supply LLC 1250 Atlantic Ave, Woodland, WA 98674 360-841-8055 WISCONSIN ____________________________

___________________________

Indoor Garden Depot 8630 Evergreen Way, Suite B Everett, WA 98208 425-347-0700 ___________________________

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 1104 West Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton, WI 54914 920-574-3258 ____________________________ Indoor Garden & Lighting 20505 Highway 99,, Lynnwood, WA 98036 425-673-2755

Indoor Garden Depot 1401 S. 324th Street, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-874-1112 ___________________________

____________________________ Go-N-Green Hydroponics 1241 State Ave Suite #102

Aqua Serene 3839 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-GROW (4769) ___________________________ Grogro Hydro 12316 32nd AVE NE #103

Marysville, WA 98270

Seattle, WA 98125

(360)386-8230

Hydro-Tech

Green Acres Indoor Garden &

2121 Aurora Avenue, North,

Lighting

Seattle, WA 98103

514 State Ave

206-547-2202

Suite #102

___________________________

Waterworks Hydroponics 5039 S. Washington Tacoma, WA 98409 253-301-4343 waterworkshydro@hotmail.com ___________________________ Garden City Hydroponics 14103 Pacific Ave., S. Tacoma WA 98444 253-301-3985 ___________________________

Marysville, WA 98270 North West Hydro Supply 1355 Pacific Pl, Ste. 101 Ferndale WA 98248 360 778 3254 ___________________________ Good 2 Gro 3507 W Clearwater Ave. Kennewick WA 99336 509-737-1313 Hefty Harvest Garden & Hydroponic Supply 2825 Marvin Road NE Ste M Lacey WA 98516 360-628-8964 ____________________________

360-658-GROW (4769) Island Hydroponic & Supplies 1515 5th Street #B, Marysville, WA 98271 425-299-5855

Seattle's Hydro Spot

Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 1204 East Wheeler Road,

917 NW 49th St. Seattle, WA 98107

Moses Lake, WA 98837 509-766-5856

206-784-2161 ___________________________

M & R Lighting

Kent Garden Supplies Ltd. 18817 East Valley Highway, Kent, WA 98032 425-251-9299 Grogro Hydro 12403 NE. 124th Street, Kirkland, WA 98034 888-7-GROGRO 425-820-6200

200

Solar Shop 306 West 4th Street, Tonasket, WA 98855 509-486-4508 ___________________________

17238 Memorial Drive, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-848-1080 Northern Lights Gardening

Indoor Garden & Lighting 714 South Central Avenue, Kent, WA 98032 253-373-9060 ____________________________

Indoor Garden & Lighting 3839 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406 253-761-7478 ___________________________

Sodo Hydro

1524 Riverside Dr #2

1727 1st Ave. South,

Mt. Vernon, WA 98273

Seattle, WA 98134

360-982-2217 ___________________________

206-682-9377 888-90HYDRO (904-9376) __________________________

Indoor Garden Depot 6400 NE Highway 99, Suite H, Vancouver, WA 98665 360-993-7779 ___________________________

Grow BIG Hydroponics 954 S. Westland, Appleton, WI 54914 920-749-4769 H2oGrow 1150 Madison rd Beloit WI 53511 608-289-1852 Brew and Grow 285 N. Janacek Road, Brookfield, WI 53045 262-789-0555 Garden Supply Guys 752 Memorial Drive - Suite A Green Bay, WI 54303 920-857-9493 Hydro Your Own 8501-75th Street, Unit C Kenosha, WI 53142 262 697 6112 Brew and Grow 3317 Agriculture Drive, Madison, WI 53716 608-226-8910 ____________________________

Paradigm Gardens 4501 Helgesen Drive, Madison, WI 53718 608-241-3800 ____________________________ Brew and Grow 2246 Bluemound Road Ste. B Waukesha, WI 53186 262-717-0666 PUERTO RICO ____________________________

Northwest Horticulture Supply 161 Hooker Road, #1, Sequim, WA 98057 360-582-0702 Indoor Garden & Lighting 8606 Preston Fall City Rd. SE Preston WA 98050 425-222-9661 ___________________________

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012

509 Grow 2718 N Division Spokane, WA 99207 509-327-GROW(4769)

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 4525 NW Fruit Valley Road, Vancouver, WA 98660 888-478-6544 (Northwest) ____________________________

Tecno-Hydro Ave Campo Rico GJ17, PO Box 1450 Carolina, PR 00982 787-752-8252 ____________________________

WiN big! groW big!

maXimum yiEld’s

4 Chances to WiN

every 2nd month for the entire year!

Enter now at maximumyield.com/winbig

1 WiN

2 WiN

Xtreme Prize Pack

Nutrifield Prize Pack

The Xtreme prize pack includes 1 qt.

(1 L) each of: Xtreme Veg, Xtreme Juice and Xtreme Boost. Xtreme Veg is an all-in-one root and grow stimulator made from organic matter and seaweed kelp. Xtreme Juice increases efficiency of mineral fertilizers. Xtreme Boost promotes enzyme production, improves resistant to disease and encourages fruit swelling. Visit xtremenutrients.com

The Nutrifield prize pack includes: Lucius Maximus digital ballast, NF Coco, NF Zyme and EP FM2 fans. The Lucius Maximus durable, energy-saving digital ballast works on HPS and MH lamps. NF Coco’s improved formula features amino acids, phyto nutrients, vitamins enzymes and more. NF Zyme’s unique formula will optimize root growth. EP FM2 centrifugal fans are built for highouput conditions. Visit nutrifield.us

3 WiN

4 WiN

Exhale homegrown co2 From urban agricultural

current culture h2o Prize Pack

ExHale® Homegrown CO2 is a revolution in indoor CO2 production. ExHale cultivates CO2 24 hours a day with no need to refill bottles or use expensive CO2 production units. ExHale is designed for a 4- by 4-ft. area and is guaranteed to produce CO2 for at least six months.

Maintenance free! No heat! No electricity! Just CO2. Visit exhaleco2bags.com

Current Culture H2O is giving away a UC Solo™ single module water culture system and Cultured Solutions™ premium plant nutrient sample pack. Includes a 13 gal. growth module, Heavy Harvest lid with convenient porthole, custom-molded heavy-duty net pot, drain valve kit, Eco Plus dual air pump, air hose, two medium round air stones and Growstones™. Visit cch2o.com

draw closes on december 15, 2012. For complete contest rules, go to maximumyield.com/winbig prizes might not be exactly as shown.

COMING UP IN December

THE ORGANICS/GLOBAL ISSUE

Even in this day and age of global communication, the word organic still gets people confused. What exactly is organic, how is it different from commercial products and how does it affect your plants? The next issue of Maximum Yield will help clear up some of this confusion. Learn about the misconceptions of organic pesticides, growing organics globally, homemade organic potting cubes and more. Some of the other articles rounding out this issue include: • Fungi and Composting • Below the Surface: Roots and Microorganisms • Harpin Proteins: Enhancing your Plant’s Natural Defense Systems • And more!

www.maximumyield.com Maximum Yield USA December will be available next month for free at select indoor gardening retail stores across the country and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available at maximumyield.com/subscriptions 202

Maximum Yield USA | November 2012