Maximum Yield Australia/New Zealand May June 2011

AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND May-June 2011

FREE

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th

ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

PlantPropagation: discovering Rooting hormones

NOVEL

small scale hydroponic methods

www.maximumyield.com

succulent

Edible Shoots

2011

Indoor gardenING expo SAN FRancisco

California, USA July 16-17

long beach

california, usa october 22-23

indoorgardeningexpo.com

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Maximum Yield |  May/June 2011

CONTENTS may / June 2011

FEATURES 14

14

Succulent, Edible Shoots

20

Plant Propagation: Discovering Rooting Hormones

26

Novel Small Scale Hydroponic Methods

32 36

Conductivity in Hydroponics

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

by Matt LeBannister

by Philip McIntosh

Chelated Micronutrients

by Donald Lester

DEPARTMENTS 26

4

From the Editor

4

Letters to the Editor

6

MaximumYield.com

8

Simon Says

10

MAX Facts

12

Product Spotlight

44

Retail Directory

46

Coming up in July/Aug

46

Do You Know?

26

32 Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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FROM THE editor

jessica raymond

Welcome to our 8th Anniversary of Maximum Yield Australia! It is incredible to see the growth of the industry over the last eight years, plus the advancement of products and technologies and the explosive popularity of growing healthy food at home. From rooftop gardens and hobby greenhouses to countertop grow boxes, retail shops have the products and the knowledge to help you reach your perfect grow.

Maximum Yield will continue to be your #1 resource for growing. This issue we take a look at small scale hydroponic

methods, conductivity education, the benefits of chelated micronutrients and much more. New product profiles and company spotlights on Kessil Lighting and Australian retailer Simply Hydroponics round out this winter issue. Be sure to check out www.maximumyield.com for back issues and gardening references.

letters to the editor

Jessica Raymond, Editor editor@maximumyield.com

Studious Hydroponic Enthusiast

Recipe for Success

I am interested in any and all literature that you have on hydroponics and getting started in hydroponics.

Your magazine is a great source of information. I appreciate the diversification of articles. New to this world, I realize nutrients are a major part of your industry.

I am focused on aquaponics and bioponics.

I do not believe that fish poop is the end to the needs of the plants, and neither are worm casting or compost teas. I would appreciate articles—if archived I would appreciate direction to articles—on studies of nutrient deficiencies with these systems and what should be monitored and supplemented, plus suggested amounts. Some of us are not chemists so maybe a baby-step kind of approach would be ideal to bring us up to speed. I glaze over trying to read and comprehend some of the articles out there.Thanks again for all of the information that you provide.

Thank You Leah Larsen

Maximum Yield magazines are a wealth of knowledge on all things hydroponics, indoor gardening and organics. I encourage you to pick up the latest issue of Maximum Yield at your local indoor gardening shop for free (a distributor listing is available at the back of every magazine).

All of our publications are available for free online at www.maximumyield.com, including 12+ years of articles related to modern gardening topics. I also invite you to follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/Max_Yield) and on Facebook (Facebook.com/ MaximumYield) for the latest tips and advice.

Trichoderma Schmichoderma What is the effect of Trichoderma fungi on weeds? I also want to know how to spell the names of these weeds.

Sara Qadomi

Trichoderma fungi are known to infect and live in a symbiotic relationship with many types of plants, including crop plants and weed species. Trichoderma are most famous for their dual benefits to crops: solubilizing soil nutrients for the plant and producing enzymes to attack soil pathogens. However, Trichoderma is also known to produce some substances toxic to weed hosts. Nodeweed (Synedrella nodiflora) and Alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) are known to naturally harbour Trichoderma fungi, and the weed Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is known to be susceptible to Trichoderma toxins, specifically oxalic acid. Isolating biopesticide materials from Trichoderma fungi is a relatively new field of study. For more information on Trichoderma, visit the author archive on maximumyield.com or refer to the July/August 2010 edition of Maximum Yield.

Maximum Yield Contributor: Donald Lester 4

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Frank Feiller

MaximumYield.com is a great source for information on nutrients and deficiencies, fertilizers, additives and supplements. Our website features hundreds of articles for beginners and expert growers alike. If your questions aren’t answered, or you require more specific information, I recommend you drop Simon Hart, our resident expert, an email at Simon@maximumyield.com Maximum Yield reserves the right to edit for brevity.

We want to hear from you!

Write us at: Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 or Email us at: editor@maximumyield.com

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Coming up on the Web Upcoming Events

Maximum Yield is thrilled to once again be hosting the 8th Annual San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo July 16 to 17, 2011. This world-class event will be held at the Fort Mason Center offering easy access, a superb location and the perfect venue for our expo. We hope to see you there.

Visit www.indoorgardeningexpo.com today for full details.

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

VOLUME 9 – NUMBER 1 MAY/JUNE 2011 PRINTED IN AUSTRALIA Maximum Yield is published bi-monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

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

Publication Agreement Number 40739092 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson EDITOR - Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com

Plant Steering

The principles of crop steering—a useful technique employed by many commercial greenhouse growers that balances the vegetative growing phase with the generative phase—is examined.

Hybrid Hydroponics

Indoor growers in Europe have devised a system that produces fat plants in small spaces. This hybrid hydro set-up could be the ideal system for you.

LEDs – Making Your Investment Worthwhile

Spend your grow light dollars wisely with these tips that serve to help you navigate the LED maze with ease.

Connect to MaximumYield.com instantly from your Smartphone with our Quick Response (QR) Code, found on the cover of every issue of Maximum Yield. Now you can access the best products, the most in-depth articles and information and the latest news, at high speeds. Simply download the QR Code Reader software compatible with your Smartphone, scan the QR Code and your phone’s browser will automatically launch, redirecting you to www.maximumyield.com. It’s that simple!

Tell us what you think at editor@maximumyield.com. We’d love to hear from you.

contributors

Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.

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

Matt LeBannister developed a

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.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Philip McIntosh is a science and

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.

ADVERTISING SALES 250.729.2677 Linda Jesson - linda@maximumyield.com Lisa Lambersek - lisa@maximumyield.com Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Christina Indseth - christina@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com Daniel Peters - daniel@maximumyield.com Tina Skujins - tina@maximumyield.com Mike Linden - mike@maximumyield.com Jennifer Duong - jennifer@maximumyield.com ACCOUNTING - Lee Anne Veres leeanne@maximumyield.com AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Dome Garden Supply Futchatec Growth Technology Holland Forge House N’ Garden Hydrogarden Hydraspher UK DISTRIBUTION Growth Technology Hydrogarden Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Nutriculture UK CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Quality Wholesale USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS General Hydroponics Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply R&M Supply Tradewinds

Donald Lester is the plant

products manager at JH Biotech, Inc., a California based agricultural technology company with 27 OMRI certified products. Donald has a master’s degree in agronomy with an emphasis in entomology. He is an agricultural scientist with over 10 years of research experience and 50 scientific publications to his credit.

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

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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SIMON says

Hey Simon, I have a very simple question that has me and many other growers confused.

I grow in a general purpose peat-based growing medium with vermiculite and perlite in buckets and I feed from the top. My question relates to pH. I have heard that peat-based grow mediums are soilless and therefore should be watered/fed at 5.8 to 6.1 pH. I have also heard that these mediums should be treated like soil and watered/fed at 6.4 to 6.8 pH. Other people have said that they water/feed at 6.1 to 6.2 pH and certain fertilizer companies instruct watering/feeding at 6.3 pH. I’ve been looking on different forums on the Internet, and it seems to be an area that really confuses a lot of people. I’ve noticed that the medium I use has a pH of anywhere between 5.3 to 5.8, so with this in mind, what should the pH of my water be? What runoff pH should I be looking for? What pH should I be watering/ feeding with using peat-based products?

Jon

The use of sphagnum peat moss is prevalent in both professional and hobby gardens alike. This type of peat has some very good characteristics but there is no perfect media. After being harvested and dried pure peat has a low pH, somewhere between 3.8 to 4.9 depending on the source bog and material.

A lot of peat suppliers can, and do, ship straight peat but most of what they ship out are blended products.

The product you are referring to specifically puts a variety of ingredients into the compressed bales and loose bags to amend the peat. To adjust the pH, most producers use dolomite lime to buffer the peat medium to somewhere between 5.5 to 6.0 (although individual bags vary). This buffering can last up to three months depending on the environmental conditions and irrigation methods. Remember that the peat will have a much higher buffering capacity than the water, which can be easily adjusted. This means to adjust pH of the peat with irrigation water would be exceptionally difficult.

Your fertilizer solution is best buffered at 5.5 to 6.5 as a general rule.

There could be a pH outside that range that works well for your crop, so experiment when possible.To assess a medium’s pH without an analytical soil analysis you can monitor the leachate, which drains from the bottom of your containers. If you find the leachate pH is lower than your water supply you can try mixing calcium into the top layer of the soil.You can also attempt to follow a more complicated biochemical process if you know the composition of the fertilizer you are using. Ammonium nitrogen (NH4) will result in a drop in the medium’s pH while nitrate nitrogen (NO3) can raise the medium’s pH due to interactions in the rhizosphere.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

If you intend to reuse your peat be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove residual nutrients before checking the pH. If the pH has drifted below 5.5 be sure to add more dolomite to ensure that you start with a higher buffering capacity. Bacterial-based organic supplements such as worm casting and compost should have a higher initial pH and can be excellent amendments to a peat base. Using coir can also be useful to moderate the low pH of peat by blending in material with a higher pH. Be cautious because this will also affect the overall structure and moisture release curve of your medium.

Do you have a question for Simon?

Send it to simon@maximumyield.com with the words “Simon Says” in the subject line, and your answer will be printed in an upcoming edition.

Maximum Maximum Yield YieldAustralia | November/December Australia | September/October Maximum Yield | May/June 2010 2011

9

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world

Infrared Sheds Light on Beneficial Microbes Infrared spectroscopy can quickly spot beneficial fungi on roots in soil. This type of spectroscopy has become established practice for quick and reliable analysis of grain and forage quality, as well as for other agricultural uses.

The ability to quickly analyze field soils for these beneficial fungi, called Mycorrhizae, would allow scientists to judge which crop rotations or other farming practices increase Mycorrhizal fungi. This is important nationwide to improve crop yields, and especially critical in semi-arid areas.

The test could simplify, speed up and make more objective measurements of Mycorrhizae in root samples compared to the standard method of visual scoring through a microscope. Scientists plan to study the spectral properties of other crop-fungal species to see whether there are universal spectral signatures for this important group of organisms.

(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

First GM Legal Battle in Oz One of the biggest legal battles in Australian GM history is brewing in Western Australia, following organic farmer Steve Marsh’s loss of his organic certification because of GM contamination. For the first time in Australia, an organic farmer has lost their organic status because of contamination by GM canola. Kojonup farmer, Steve Marsh, confirmed in January that his oat and wheat crops have been downgraded to conventional crops because 70 per cent of his property has been contaminated with Monsanto’s Roundup Ready Canola.

Considering that organic wheat sells for $500 to $800 a tonne more than conventional wheat and GM seeds can remain viable for a number of years, Mr. Marsh is facing massive financial losses. He has confirmed he will take legal action. In response, Monsanto has announced that it will bankroll its GM farmer’s legal defence.

(Source: http://suggest.getup.org.au)

Hydroponic Tomatoes a Year-round Job The Ross Tomatoes greenhouse at Yarrawonga, Victoria houses 8,500 hydroponic tomato and capsicum plants in its 3,100 square metres. Owners Peter and Annie Ross grow Conchita cherry truss tomatoes and Zealand and Westland truss tomatoes; yellow, red and orange capsicums; and popular heirloom tomatoes.

(Source: www.bordermail.com.au)

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Eat Your Roof If you’re a hard core food gardener, somewhat inclined towards the extreme side of the scale, you won’t want to leave any space unused. So, if you’ve run out of places to grow food, try the roof. At Rainbow Valley Farm in New Zealand, permaculturist Joe Polaischer has planted herbs, grasses, food plants, succulents and flowers on his roof. The roof goes back into the hill the house is built against and this means the free range chickens, ducks and guinea fowl can get up there to forage and build their nests in the long grass. Joe reports that as well as supplying food, his green roof keeps the house cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

(Source: www.warmearth.com.au)

Renee’s Seed Donations Make a Difference Every year, Renee’s Garden donates seeds to a wide variety of organizations and educational programs worldwide that strive to improve social, economic and health conditions, and promote sustainable organic gardening. We also encourage retailers to donate unsold Renee’s Garden seeds to local non-profit organizations at the end of the season. Some of the fine non-profit organizations that received seed donations include: The Gimbie Adventist Hospital Garden in West Wollega, Ethiopia; Flying Doctors of America (for project in Haiti); Highway of Heroes in Young’s Point, Ontario (Canada); Correo Nacional Health Center in Marcala, La Paz (Honduras); and many more. We are pleased to share their successful outcomes.

(Source: www.reneesgarden.com)

Vending Machine Grows 20,000 Heads of Lettuce a Year Without Sunlight The Chef’s Farm, a Japanese lettuce-growing vending machine, doesn’t require sunlight and can churn out 60 heads of lettuce a day, or over 20,000 a year. The Chef’s Farm was developed by Dentsu and uses 40 watt fluorescent lighting housed in chrome that can be stored conveniently in any restaurant. It can grow other kinds of veggies as well.

Rainbow Valley Farm, Matakana, New Zealand

(Source: www.treehugger.com)

Aussie Schools Adopt Organic Farmers Thanks to a variety of programs and enthusiastic teachers and parents, organic veggie patches are becoming as common in schoolyards as hopscotch grids. The Organic Schools Gardens Program, run by organic certifying body the Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA)—has over 600 primary schools enrolled. BFA links schools with organic farms through an initiative called Adopt-a-Farmer. Adopted farmers will visit their school as well as host school excursions and education days on their organic farms.

(Source: www.warmearth.com.au)

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this issue’s hottest items. Ask for them at your local indoor gardening store.

Introducing the New HydroStar E-Ballast by Greenstar Plant Products HydroStar by Greenstar Plant Products is a line of value-priced import items that allow growers to get the highest quality at a low price. We are incredibly excited to introduce our first HydroStar product to the market: the HydroStar Electronic Ballast. This non-dimming, 120/240 volt, CUL-approved ballast will run halide or sodium lamps and is programmed for a “soft-start”.This ballast features silent fan-less operation, the highest quality components and a three year exchange warranty. For more information or to order, visit your local indoor gardening shop.

House & Garden Algen Extract Algen Extract is a concentrated solution of Norwegian sea kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum). Micronutrients, microbiology and macronutrients are all present in Algen Extract. It is designed for use with sprouts that have rooted well. It ensures better leaf colour and stimulates the formation of root hair, leading to increased uptake of various trace elements. Great as a foliar spray and for root applications. It can also be used as a leaf wash in case of chemical pest control and dusting. Algen Extract is available from indoor gardening shops across Australia and New Zealand.

Kessil Lighting Unveils H350 Spectral Halo LED Grow Light

New From Root Pouch - Hydro/Culture Fabric Pots

Kessil’s highly anticipated H350 Spectral Halo LED grow light features 2.5 times the light output of Kessil’s celebrated H150 grow light and incorporates the latest Dense Matrix LED™ platform for added intensity and a wider spread. Its 90 watt platform produces an extremely bright, penetrating stream of light to reach deep into the canopy of the plant. Kessil’s new vapour cooling thermal management system is able to draw heat away from the LED core quickly, maintaining the light’s efficiency and long lifetime.

H350 is also available in new deep purple and magenta. For more information visit your local indoor gardening shop.

Root Pouch’s new Hydro/Culture Fabric Pots were designed with one thing in mind, to create better roots in a sustainable and environmentally sound product. Made from the same porous, breathable fabric Root Pouch is known for, but in a lighter density fabric of only 90 grams per square metre, designed specifically for hydroponic applications. Root Pouch Hydro/Culture Pots allow for nutrients and air to freely pass through to nurture the root system and create dense and fibrous root structures. Perfect for flood trays, flood and drain, re-circulating, ebb and flow, drip systems, SWC and DWV. Available in hydro shops near you.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

EcoPlus® Commercial Grade Water Chillers Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the new Commercial Grade Water Chillers from EcoPlus®. Available in 0.5, one or 1.5 HP, these chillers are energy efficient and provide optimum performance. Suitable for use with reservoirs, hydroponic systems or aquariums, the EcoPlus® Commercial Grade Chillers may be plumbed with hard PVC pipe or flexible tubing. They feature remote temperature control, a power cord and temperature memory in the event of a power failure.

These chillers are friendly to those with a “set it and forget it” mentality. Visit your local hydro shop for more information.

House & Garden Starter Packs Just released in Australia, House & Garden Starter Packs are all you need to get growing. Our Starter Packs consist of all your favourite H&G additives in a handy 500 millilitre size plus a one litre A&B nutrient of your choice depending on your substrate. H&G Starter Packs come with two sachets of Shooting Powder and 250 millilitres of Roots Excelurator plus an easy-to-use feed chart. If you want top quality nutrients and additives all in one handy pack, it has to be House & Garden. Available from leading hydroponic retailers in Australia and New Zealand.

Continues on page 39

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Succulent, EDIBLE SHOOTS

A salad of fresh mixed edible shoots is possible within seven days of sowing seeds with these fast growing species.

Whether you’re looking for an antioxidant-rich shoot, a succulent, nutty shoot to add to salads, something with a touch of sweetness or a versatile garnish, these four varieties of edible shoots can be grown easily in hydroponics.

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

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Maximum Yield |  May/June 2011

Edible shoot species can all be grown together on shallow trays to save space indoors.

Many of us are well familiar with the trend in microgreens, which has swept worldwide through fine dining restaurants, farmer’s markets, produce stores and the health food industry.

These tiny packages of nutrients, antioxidants and chlorophyll are perfect miniatures of their adult parents and most have subtle and delicate flavours to match. However, within the vast array of microgreen species there is a group referred to as the ‘edible shoots.’ Comprising the most well known of all microgreen—wheatgrass, this category also contains pea shoots or tendrils, mung beans and lentils, corn and sunflower shoots or ‘greens.’ These edible ‘shoots’ are typically larger and taller than most of the other microgreens and some, such as pea and corn shoots may be cooked in stir-fries, soups and other dishes.

While most of these edible shoots can be purchased prepackaged and ready to eat, there are some major advantages to growing these yourself and harvesting just before use. Edible shoots contain many vitamins, including vitamin C or ascorbic acid, the levels of which are known to decline the longer the greens are stored after harvest. What is even more interesting is that these shoots have much higher concentrations of vitamin C and health promoting phytochemicals when grown in the light, compared to sprouts, which are typically grown in the dark. So, indoor gardeners with a sunny window or grow lamp can take advantage of even the tiniest of spaces to produce healthy fresh shoots year round.

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Succulent, edible shoots

Grown together on a moisture retentive mat, edible shoots need only a small space and some light to give a rewarding and succulent crop.

Growing Edible Shoots Hydroponic methods provide a huge advantage when it comes to microgreens and shoot production. The old ‘dirt filled tray’ method of growing baby greens and shoots doesn’t provide the cleanliness, quality or grit free product that hydroponic methods can. Use of hydroponic nutrients can give many shoots such as wheatgrass, which is grown for a longer time, a real boost in mineral content—a bonus in any type of health food. Hygiene also needs to be considered; strict guidelines are used in the commercial production of microgreens, sprouts and shoots and these should be followed by anyone growing these at home. Cooled, boiled water can be used for soaking seeds and germination trays should be cleaned with bleach between crops.

If mould or bacterial diseases continually appear, the seed may need to be surface sterilized before sowing with a 10 per cent bleach solution and rinsed well with water. Growth of certain

Untreated seed should always be used for microgreens and edible shoot production.

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Cleanliness is important; white healthy roots free from fungal and bacterial infection will produce the best shoot crops.

moulds on germinating seeds can pose a health risk, so any shoots with fungal development should not be harvested or eaten.

Since edible shoots are tender young seedlings they need a growing media that will hold sufficient moisture and oxygen around the seed without waterlogging or drying out frequently.

This substrate also needs to be sterile, as many pathogens like to attack young plants in vulnerable stages of development. Grit or particle free is also another requirement – sunflower seeds in particular, when sown at high densities, tend to throw up media particles, which can stick to the seedlings and contaminate the final product. These days there are some great grow pads

Wheatgrass rapidly develops a thick and dense root mat and benefits from the early addition of hydroponic nutrients.

and mats specifically designed for microgreen and shoot production, which are a real bonus to small indoor gardeners and commercial growers alike.

Light is also essential for shoot production—or at least for green shoot production. Pea and corn shoots can be grown as the traditional ‘green’ type or the blanched ‘yellow or golden’ type. Green shoots are grown in full light, while the yellow or blanched product is grown in darkness. Obviously the green

Grain for hydroponic wheatgrass production can be sown at very high densities (several grains deep) to make the most of limited space.

shoots contain chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis in plants, which is consumed as a health supplement. However, blanching shoots by growing them in darkness not only gives an interesting and contrasting colour; it also provides a milder flavour and softer texture. Light for shoot production doesn’t need to be intense; young seedlings need much less light than mature plants which means these greens can be grown near a window or under small lamps.

Photoperiod is not important, so continual low-level light is often used to help speed growth. There may be some benefit to using either natural light or full spectrum lamps for microgreens and shoots as it is not yet known how different wavelengths of light might influence the bio-active compounds and health promoting phytochemicals that these tiny plants contain.

Wheatgrass Wheatgrass shoots are an old favourite and still growing in popularity as a health promoting juice. Wheatgrass shoots are grown for longer than other shoots and for this reason they benefit from additions of dilute, well-balanced hydroponic nutrient as food reserves in the wheat grain are exhausted long Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Succulent, edible shoots

Harvested sunflower shoots can be stored in bags in the refrigerator until required.

before the wheatgrass is harvested. Dilute nutrient (EC .4 to .5 mS cm-1) can be applied daily, once germination has occurred.

Selection of one of the many nutrient products that contains minerals beneficial to human health (selenium and chromium) can also help boost the nutrient content of wheatgrass. Full spectrum lamps or reasonably strong natural light also help boost vitamin and chlorophyll content in densely grown wheatgrass.

All these factors mean that homegrown wheatgrass consumed immediately after harvest and grown with consideration for what influences levels of vitamins, minerals and phyto active compounds in the shoots, should be superior to a bottled or packaged product.

Sunflowers Sunflower shoots are becoming increasingly popular as a salad green and are easily grown indoors. The advantage of sunflower shoots is not only are they quick to germinate, but they also produce a succulent, slightly nutty flavoured shoot. Furthermore, the cotyledon or first seedling leaves of the sunflower are large and thick compared to many other microgreens species. Given that the cotyledons have been shown to contain the highest levels of bioactive compounds, large seedling leaves are a benefit for those interested in the health benefits of microgreens.

Sunflower shoots are high in chlorophyll, and as germination occurs, seed fats are converted to essential fatty acids and carbohydrates, proteins are converted to amino acids and vitamin levels increase significantly.

Sunflower seeds grown for ‘greens’ need to have the hull (the hard outer seed coat) intact. As with all microgreens, the seeds need to be clean and untreated with any fungicides or germination compounds. Seeds should be washed several times in clean water, and then soaked for 24 hours. After draining, the seeds can be spread over a moisture retentive, sterile media in shallow trays. For shoot production, where the tiny plants are only grown for six to seven days the seed can be layered 18

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Popcorn shoots have a surprising sweet and fresh corn flavour.

thickly—two to three seeds deep is fine, so as to make the most use of space and light. Ideally sunflower shoots should develop an elongated, white stem and using a high seeding density helps ensure this. Ideal temperatures for sunflower germination are 24 to 28°C, which are usually obtainable indoors in a warm position, or on a heated seed pad underneath the germinating tray will speed growth in winter. Sunflower shoots are harvested as soon as the cotyledons or seedling leaves have fully expanded, but before the first true leaves can be seen developing as these have a more bitter flavour.

The shoots are cut at the base, and any seed husks still attached to the top of the plant are brushed off at harvest.

Corn Shoots Corn shoots have a surprising flavour and sweetness—like a mild sweetcorn kernel with a hint of candy aftertaste. The most popular type of corn shoot is grown from popcorn, although sweetcorn can also be used. Corn shoots can have a slight degree of toughness and are best grown rapidly at warm temperatures and light, which is not too intense to keep the shoot tall and succulent. Seed is prepared in a similar way to sunflowers, by washing and rinsing, then soaking for 24 hours before sowing onto sterile seedling mats. Corn needs warmth—25 to 32°C for rapid germination as cool temperatures will slow growth and can cause the seed to rot. Seed density can be high as the shoots

Decorative young pea shoots and tendrils have long been used as a garnish and additions to fresh salads.

will push upwards and grow well even if sown two to three kernels deep. Shoots are best harvested fairly young before they develop any toughness; usually this is only four to six days post germination.Yellow corn shoots are grown in total darkness and harvested when around 10 centimetres—these are sweeter and tenderer than green shoots.

Pea Shoots and Tendrils Pea shoots have long been used as a garnish, addition to salads and in various cooked dishes, and these are one of the most popular of the hydroponic shoots. Pea tendrils are the thin, stringy, feathered green part, which the plant uses to attach itself to climbing frames. These days, peas for microgreen production have been bred, which produce tendrils on young pea seedlings, giving a highly attractive shoot with the flavour of mild freshly podded peas. As with all microgreen seed, peas for shoot production need to be untreated as any fungicide or other chemicals can be carried over to the harvestable portion of the seedling. Pea shoots are typically harvested at around 10 centimetres in height and can be stored in plastic bags under refrigeration. Growing at a high density in a single layer on microgreen pads or mats will give tall straight pea shoots with a white blanched stem and bright green leaves.

Hydroponic shoots are one of the most quick and versatile crops indoor growers can produce. They need only a small space, a kitchen tray, seedling mat and some dilute nutrient to grow one of the healthiest fresh crops possible. From salads, stir-fries, sandwich fillings and juices, edible shoots are worth giving a try. MY Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Plant

Propagation Discovering Rooting Hormones

by Matt LeBannister

Understanding how rooting hormones work, what forms they come in and how to properly apply them to cuttings is essential for rooting success. Read on to learn the benefits of liquid, gel and powder rooting hormones, including a natural weeping willow remedy.

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Maximum Yield |  May/June 2011

When your plant exhibits a favourable characteristic, you want to replicate that strain’s trait in successive generations. For instance, a chilli pepper strain may be super flavourful or a tomato strain might provide a large yield. In order to ensure exact genetic copies of these super performing strains are reproduced in future plants, gardeners usually rely on cloning where cuttings are taken from a healthy mother plant.

When taking cuttings there are certain measures you can take to ensure successful rooting. Gardeners have the option of using humidity domes and root zone heating mats to speed up the rooting process of cuttings; another successful practice involves using rooting hormones. These hormones, known as auxins, are naturally available in the plant and are entirely necessary for cuttings to root successfully.

When homemade or commercial rooting hormones are applied to the site of the cutting, the auxin levels are boosted. This process leads to an improvement in the speed at which cuttings root and a general increase in the overall survival rate of the cuttings.

Rooting hormones play a crucial role in the lifecycle of every plant that has been cloned via a mother plant cutting. It is important when using any product to truly understand how it can benefit your garden.

When a cutting is taken the plant must change in order to survive. The plant must stop producing green stem cells at the source of the cut and begin producing undifferentiated cells, which will eventually turn into root Cutting ready for liquid rooting hormone. cells. Once cuttings have been placed into the growing medium their undifferentiated cells will form calluses at the source of the cut. The use of rooting hormones will quicken the development of the undifferentiated plant cells and hasten the formation of the calluses on the cuttings.

This allows the root cells to appear sooner and results in healthy, vigorous root growth.

There is some controversy as to whether it is beneficial to the cutting to be dipped in rooting hormone prior to The bottom 2.5 centimetres of a cutting should be submerged in planting. This stems from the liquid rooting hormone for five to 20 seconds. fact that plant cuttings produce these rooting hormones, or auxins, on their own and essentially can Liquid root easily without the outside influence The liquid versions of rooting hormones of commercial rooting hormones. There are usually diluted in water before is also a concern that adding too much application. The dilution rate can vary rooting compound to a cutting can depending on the concentration of each actually slow down the rooting process product, so follow the directions on or even halt it entirely. This means that the labels carefully. If the hormones get the rooting hormones need to be applied mixed too strongly in the water, then the in correct doses always in regard to the cuttings dipped in the compound will specific strength and form of the hormone. probably have difficulty rooting. Once the Commercial rooting hormones are rooting hormone is mixed at the correct available as a liquid, gel or powder. Each rate, the bottom 2.5 centimetres of the type has its own instructions, but there are cutting should be submerged for five to general rules one can follow to ensure the 20 seconds then placed directly into the hormone is applied correctly. growing medium. If cuttings are exposed

to air too long before planting, air may be sucked into the stem, which blocks the transport of vital liquids in the plant and will kill your cuttings as a result.

Gel Applying the gel form of commercial rooting hormones involves no diluting of the product ahead of time, for they are ready to dip. To avoid contamination of the main supply of rooting hormone it is best to put a small amount, enough for the number of cuttings you need, in a separate container. Dip the bottom 2.5 centimetres of the cutting into the gel and make sure it covers the area evenly. The great thing about using a gel version of the rooting hormone is that once it has been applied to the cutting it seals the wound from the air.

Many of the commercial gel rooting hormones—available at your local gardening shop— also contain fungicides. This will help prevent damping off fungi that will rot the stems of young cuttings and kill them in 24 hours.

Powder The last type of rooting hormone is powder and it is probably the hardest to work with.This is because it can be hard to get just the right amount of the granular to stay on the end of the cutting once dipped. Powder versions of rooting hormones are also difficult to work with because it is very easy to over apply and stunt the root growth. The best way to

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21

Plant Propagation

A plant displaying healthy white roots, thanks to the use of a rooting hormone, is ready to be transplanted.

ensure that the grains actually stick evenly to the cutting is to first dip the cutting 2.5 centimetres into water then into the powdered hormone. Like the previous forms of rooting hormone, it is best to only put enough of any compound in a separate container. This will keep your powdered rooting hormone fresh and free of contaminants.Here is a great natural approach for those gardeners out there who prefer to do things themselves.

“The weeping willow tree contains an aspirin-like compound that when mixed with water can promote root growth 10 to 20 per cent more than just with plain water.�

An easy to use, homemade rooting hormone can be derived from the weeping willow tree. The weeping willow tree contains an aspirin-like compound that when mixed with water can promote root growth 10 to 20 per cent more than just with plain water.

To make your own weeping willow water rooting hormone first collect 2.5 centimetre thick branches from a weeping willow tree. Cut up the branches into inch long pieces and soak them in water for 24 hours.

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Cuttings dipped in powdered rooting hormones should be evenly covered on the bottom 2.5 centimetres of the cutting.

Once soaked, drain the willow water into a separate container to strain out all the chunks of weeping willow branches. The resulting brew is somewhat of a weak strength liquid rooting hormone.

The cuttings then need to be soaked in this solution for 24 hours before being planted. Cuttings need to be soaked for a long time for the weaker willow water solution to be absorbed. The benefit of using the weaker willow water solution is that there is little risk of over saturation, which ensures the cuttings root quickly and their roots grow healthy and fast.

For cuttings to successfully root, certain expectations need to be met. Light, temperature and humidity all factor in the successful rooting of any cutting. What really allows plants to be cloned through the cutting process is rooting hormones. Natural hormones in the plant, as well as the rooting hormones that are commercially available, cause green stems cell to become undifferentiated cells. The plant then forms a callus at which time the formation of root cells begin. The commercial rooting hormone compounds simply quicken the process and give the cutting a certain edge when developing roots if properly applied.

They can give the opposite effect and hinder root growth when over applied.

Weigh the pros and cons or simply put the method to the test by growing cuttings with and without rooting hormones side-by-side and measure the results yourself.

For this is truly the only way to really know whether a product works for you. MY

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Novel

Small Scale Hydroponics Methods

by Philip McIntosh Resourceful graduate students on a budget duplicate commercial hydroponic set-ups on a small scale, saving money and space.

There are many resources available to growers for learning about and keeping up with new developments in hydroponics.

Books, magazines, websites and social networking sites are all places where people find out about new techniques and equipment and learn how to get started and solve problems.

Most hydroponic growers installing a growing system choose to implement a version of a well known technology by either building a system according to established principles or by purchasing outright a complete turnkey operation from a commercial supplier. For several reasons, researchers at universities often take a different approach.

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Budgetary constraints are a limiting factor. Grant money is a precious commodity so project leaders are usually careful with their spending. Purchasing an expensive commercial system to support a research program is seldom a first choice. Space is another concern, with most laboratories being crowded full of equipment, instruments and limited bench space. Plants grown for research purposes often must be axenic, meaning they have to be free of contamination with other organisms such as bacteria and fungi. Commercial and hobby systems are not designed to meet this requirement.

Scientists and graduate students tend to be a resourceful bunch though, and can often come up with creative and ingenious ways of doing things using scavenged or repurposed equipment, or by using materials that are available for relatively low cost.

Workers who use the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana have developed many techniques for growing this diminutive and seemingly unremarkable species. Hydroponics is the method of choice in some Arabidopsis labs, and many of the methods can be easily duplicated for little cost. Such methods are suitable for growing other small herbs, for trying out ideas on a small scale before making a major investment or when space is limited.

A few of the more interesting methods developed in labs are outlined below. Consult the references for more detailed information.

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Novel small scale hydroponics Methods

the nutrient medium during germination and the roots grow down through the grid into a semi-solid or aqueous nutrient medium. After the plants are about a week old, the entire support grid is transferred to a flask for further plant growth.The number of seeds on a grid can be varied to provide an optimum density, and the grids can easily be transferred to some other vessels besides flasks to continue their lifecycle.

Grid support methods are particularly useful for cleanly separating the root portion of plants from the shoots. It would be useful for small herbs when only the shoots are to be harvested, but would not be appropriate for the harvesting of whole plants with roots intact.

Centrifuge Tube Method. Most university labs engaged in molecular biology research maintain a stock of plastic centrifuge tubes. Enterprising researchers have adapted these small tubes to construct simple yet efficient hydroponics systems. In one such system, the conical-shaped bottoms of 48 gram centrifuge tubes are cut from full tubes and stuffed with rockwool. These tubes are then simply placed in holes cut into the top of a plastic tub, with the taper of the cut tube preventing the tubes from sliding all the way through.

Seeds can then be sown directly on the top of the wetted rockwool.The only other equipment required is a bubbler (powered by an aquarium pump) placed in the reservoir tub to aerate the nutrient solution.

The tubes, raised above the top of the tank lid, are easily handled and can be easily wrapped with foil or some other opaque material to prevent algal growth once the plants have achieved sufficient size.

Tub and PVC Test Plug Method. A method devised by researchers employs polyethylene tubs as nutrient solution reservoirs, covered with 0.25 centimetre thick acrylic plastic.

Thirty five holes are cut in the acrylic tops to hold removable 3.8 centimetre PVC test plugs (also called test caps). A 1.3 centimetre hole is drilled in each plug to hold a three centimetre long cylinder of rockwool. The acrylic tops and the plugs must be painted with vinyl or epoxy paint to make them completely opaque.

“Enterprising researchers have adapted [centrifuge] tubes to construct simple yet efficient hydroponics systems.”

A Little Background on Arabidopsis So, what is this plant Arabidopsis thaliana and why do so many scientists grow it? Arabidopsis thaliana (mouse-ear cress or thale cress) is a widely distributed weed in the family Brassicaceae (the mustards) that is of no commercial value. It does, however, have characteristics that make it an ideal organism for genetic and molecular studies.

These characteristics include: • •

• • • • • •

A short lifecycle, which proceeds from germination to seed in about six weeks Small genome consisting of about 157 million base pairs on five chromosomes (compare this to the size of the three billion base pair human genome) The complete Arabidopsis genome has been sequenced and studied in great detail The plant is small, takes up little space and is easy to grow It produces many seeds A wide variety of well-characterized mutants exist There is a strong suite of molecular biology techniques available for Arabidopsis Young plants are translucent, making them ideal for study using light microscopy

Although the plant is easily cultured in soil, vermiculite, perlite, on agar and in many other ways, hydroponics is often used because of the precise control and cleanliness of the method or when there is a need to produce clean, undamaged roots for study.

Methods from Arabidopsis Labs Grid Support Method. Some Arabidopsis methods employ a metal grid as a seed support.The grid suspends the seeds above 28

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Novel small scale hydroponic methods

“The methods described here use parts readily found in a lab or that can be easily purchased from local stores.”

The rockwool cylinders are placed in the plugs so that when installed in the tops, they contact the nutrient solution with ⅔ of the cylinder above the fluid level. Seeds are placed on top of the rockwool either before or after wetting.The researchers have observed better root development without constant aeration in the reservoir and run an air bubbler in the solution for five minutes every half hour.

Plastic Box and Sponge Method. In a method that is a bit more intricate than the ones previously described, workers at Harvard University have adapted small opaque plastic boxes as reservoirs. One centimetre holes are cut into the box lids, and 0.5 centimetre wide strips cut from an ordinary kitchen sponge are used as plant supports.

For some reason, these researchers choose to germinate the seeds in soil and transfer the seedling to the hydroponic units when they are two to three weeks old. After removing plants from the soil with forceps and washing them with water, a sponge strip is wrapped around each stem at the base of the shoot.The sponge is inserted into a hole in the box lid where it keeps the plant in place with roots suspended in a nutrient solution. Continuous aeration is provided through an air stone connected to a small aquarium pump.The boxes are then placed in suitable growing conditions to complete plant development.

Cucumbers in Trash Cans Although not developed in an Arabidopsis lab, the trash can method of growing a single cucumber plant certainly qualifies as novel so it is included here. It doesn’t get much simpler than this.The only materials required are a plastic trash container (136 to 159 litres) with lid; hydroponic fertilizer; forestry tube (3.8 centimetres in diameter by 20 centimetres long); growing medium to fill the forestry tube (may contain at least two of the following: peat, perlite, vermiculite, coir); electric drill with ¼ inch bit; 1.5 inch hole saw; and cucumber seeds.

A “forestry tube” is a small cone-shaped vessel used to supply tree seedlings for planting and if one is not available, some other kind of plastic tube can be made to work.The authors claim no aeration is required and suggest not adding more nutrient solution as the level in the container recedes. A trellis is recommended to support the cucumber vine, so it would be practical to place the system near a wall.

Unfortunately, the trashcan method is patented! According to the original source: This hydroponic method is protected by U.S. Patents 5,385,589 and 5,533,299. This method may be used freely in Hawaii for hobby and educational purposes. In addition, commercial farmers are free to grow crops with this technology in Hawaii. However, permission must be granted from the author for the commercial manufacturing and sale of hydroponic systems utilizing this technology and for selling or licensing this technology within the state of Hawaii, plus these and any commercial uses beyond the state of Hawaii.

So, if you are in Hawaii, give it a go. Everyone else—ask permission!

The methods described here use parts readily found in a lab or that can be easily purchased from local stores. Hopefully, they will provide inspiration for other ingenious small systems built using on-hand or readily available materials without having to resort to specialized equipment. MY

References • Anonymous; Arabidopsis thaliana page. <http:// oregonstate.edu/dept/nursery-weeds/weedspeciespage/ arabidopsis/Arabidopsis_thaliana_page.html> (Accessed July 14, 2010) • Anonymous; Arabidopsis thaliana, Use as a model organism <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabidopsis_thaliana#Use_ as_a_model_organism> (Accessed July 14, 2010) • Gibeaut, David M., Hulett, John, Cramer, Grant R., and Seeman, Jeffrey R.; Cramer, Maximal biomass of Arabidopsis thaliana using a simple, low maintenance hydroponic method and favorable environmental conditions <http://www.ag.unr.edu/cramer/hydroponic. html> (Accessed July 12, 2010) • Hétu, Marie-F., Tremblay, Linda J., and Lefebvre.

Daniel D.; High root biomass production in anchored Arabidopsis plants grown in axenic sucrose supplemented liquid culture; BioTechniques 39:345-349 (September 2005) • Huttner, D, and Bar-Zvi, D.; An improved, simple, hydroponic method for growing Arabidopsis thaliana; Plant Molecular Biology Reporter 21: 59–63, March 2003 • Kratky, B.A.; Growing hydroponic cucumbers in a plastic trash container; Cooperative Extension Service, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawai’i at Manoa, Jan. 2003, HG-44 • Zwieniecka, A., Gorska, A., and Lazor, J.; A method for hydroponic culture of Arabidopsis thaliana; <http:// zatoichi.huh.harvard.edu/~zwieniecki/methods/ Hydroponics/hydroponics.html> (accessed July 15, 2010)

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Conductivity in

Hydroponics 32

Maximum Yield | May/June | | May/June March/April 2011 2011 2011

Electrical Conductivity (EC) is a parameter that gets ignored quite often among growers who tend to use Parts Per Million (PPM) more than they do EC. In fact, EC is the true measure of electrical conductivity whereas PPM is the quantity of what’s being measured. EC meters can’t actually read PPM. Get a jump start on further understanding conductivity...

Conductivity is the total soluble salts contained within a liquid solution. Pure water has a conductivity measurement of zero because it does not contain salts.

By adding soluble elements to the water, electricity is able to move through the solution giving it a conductivity rating.

So why is conductivity important? Using hydroponics as an example, different crops grow well at different nutrient strengths (Electrical Conductivity - EC or CF). Controlling this nutrient strength is all important in providing the best conditions for your crop. Without proper measurement your crop could fail from root burn brought on by too high a nutrient level, or death by natural causes from not receiving the vital elements they need to grow.

To the right is a list of crops with the ideal EC value the crop is grown at in a hydroponic system for optimum performance. Although there are ideal EC values for each plant type, this does not mean that a range of plants, all technically requiring different strength nutrients, cannot be grown in a home situation together. The grower simply lists the range of EC values and picks an average value.

For most home systems this value is between 1.2 EC and 2.0 EC depending on the requirements of the predominant crop types being grown. MY Article contributed by Bluelab Corporation Limited

CROP

ec value

CROP

ec value

African violet

1.0 - 1.2

Lavender

1.0 - 1.4

Asparagus

1.4 - 1.8

Leek

1.6 - 2.0

Avocado PEar

1.8 - 2.6

Lettuce - Fancy

0.3 - 0.8

Balm

1.0 - 1.4

Lettuce - Iceberg

0.6 - 1.4

banana

1.8 - 1.4

MElons

1.0 - 2.2

basil

1.0 - 1.4

Mint

1.0 - 1.4

beans

1.8 - 2.5

Mustard/Cress

1.2 - 2.4

beetroot

1.4 - 2.2

Onion

1.8 - 2.2

blueberry

1.8 - 2.0

Parsley

0.8 - 1.8

borage

1.0 - 1.4

Passion Fruit

1.6 - 2.4

broccoli

1.4 - 2.4

Pea

1.4 - 1.8

brussel sprout

1.8 - 2.4

Pumpkin

1.4 - 2.4

cabbage

1.4 - 1.8

Radish

1.2 - 2.2

capsicum

2.0 - 2.7

rhubarb

1.6 - 2.0

carrot

1.4 - 2.2

Roses

1.8 - 2.6

cauliflower

1.4 - 2.4

Sage

1.0 - 1.6

celery

1.5 - 2.4

Spinach

1.8 - 3.5

chives

1.2 - 2.2

Silver Beet

1.8 - 2.4

cucumber

1.6 - 2.4

Squash

1.8 - 2.4

dwarf roses

1.6 - 2.6

Strawberry

1.8 - 2.5

egg plant

1.8 - 2.2

Thyme

1.2 - 1.6

endive

0.8 - 1.5

tomato

2.2 - 2.8

fennel

1.0 - 1.4

turnip, parsnip

1.8 - 2.4

kohlrabi

1.8 - 2.2

watercress

0.4 - 1.8

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

33

YOU TELL US

Briang Chiang

Brian Chiang, managing director for Kessil Lighting, defines the term “Dense Matrix” and discusses the advantages of LEDs for indoor gardens.

Maximum Yield (MY): Many growers are sceptical of light emitting diodes (LEDs) for indoor gardens, saying they aren’t powerful enough to grow a crop from seedling/cutting to harvest. What is your rebuttal?

Brian Chiang: Kessil was the first company to introduce Dense Matrix LED™ technology to the indoor growing industry. Using this technology, we are able to easily focus light by manipulating the surrounding optics. This creates an intense, penetrating light that is powerful enough to grow plants effectively from seeding to fruiting, as we have proven in our lab studies.

We just came out with a new light that is so powerful it uses an advanced vapour cooling system to help manage the resulting heat. This light has far exceeded our expectations from our experiments and we’re excited for everyone to try it.

MY: What studies have you done to prove the effectiveness of LEDs? Brian: We’ve done many studies over the years with various crops, everything from leafy (basil) to rooting (potato) plants.

Tomatoes, in particular, need a lot of light, so they were the most obvious in demonstrating the effectiveness of our lights.

We’ve tested different spectrum combinations during different stages of growth, in conjunction with traditional lighting (spectrum tuning) and as standalone light sources. That’s the beauty of LEDs—there are ways to use them.

MY: What are the advantages of LEDs in various indoor growing environments?

Brian: Besides the usual answers—long lasting, energy saving, environmentally friendly—the biggest advantage of LEDs is their ability to specify spectrums. Light is a critical factor in plant growth, since it is what plants convert to energy. Because plants don’t need all wavelengths of light, using broadband light sources can be wasteful and inefficient. Moreover, broadband sources have set spectrums that aren’t necessarily optimized for plant growth. In contrast, each individual LED chip produces only one wavelength, allowing spectrums to be created that aid plant development. In addition, growers can monitor the low heat emission from LEDs much easier than other broadband sources that often need complex circulation systems.

MY: What makes LEDs an environmentally friendly lighting alternative?

Brian: LEDs are toxin free, energy-efficient and long lasting. By converting most of the electricity used into light, LEDs use less energy to produce light than other light sources. Because their lifetime is so long, there is less waste from replacement bulbs and the like. Overall, LEDs have a much smaller carbon footprint than other forms of lighting.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

MY: What are the differences between the various lights you offer and when are they used?

Brian: Kessil offers a variety of spectrums in our grow lights (H150, H350, H150W) depending on what the grower needs, from general purpose units to supplemental lights. Our Deep Purple formula uses extra blue wavelengths to provide an extra boost for the vegetative stage. The Purple spectrum is similar without the added blue emphasis of the Deep Purple, and is designed to carry plants through vegetation to flowering. However, growers also have the option of the Magenta spectrum, which can also bring a plant through vegetation, but uses more red wavelengths to enhance flowering and fruiting.

We also carry spectrum correcting lights in all Red and all Blue for growers who want to add an extra boost to their HID lights, or for growers who want to create their own spectrum formula. Supplement a metal halide with the Red unit during flowering or a high pressure sodium with the Blue unit for stronger vegetation. These colours are also available in our wide angle unit, the H150W, for users who need a wider spread.

Our newest spectrum offerings are for aquarium lighting (A150W), including Sky Blue (10,000 K), Ocean Blue (15,000 K) and Deep Ocean Blue (20,000 K). These all provide the highly sought after shimmer effect of a metal halide without the excess heat and power consumption.

MY: What is a Dense Matrix LED™?

Brian: The Dense Matrix LED™ that Kessil applies in our products is an advanced platform that densely packs many LED chips together. For example, H150 uses a dense matrix platform that carries 21 LED chips in an area smaller than a dime. With special thermal management, Kessil is able to design a product that can operate at high currents and put out more light that

can be effectively focused into intense beams, while still running at a temperature much cooler than other grow lights.

Through this patented platform, we have easily conquered the two biggest challenges in designing LED fixtures, beam control and heat management, to produce a grow light that not only penetrates plants deeply, but also runs cool at higher efficiency with a longer lifetime.

MY: Where can Australian growers buy Kessil Lighting and learn more about your company and products?

Brian: We’re currently in discussion with possible distributors in Australia—but until then, several of the stores that carry our products also have online stores that ship worldwide. We’ve heard back from many people abroad who have done this.

MY: What’s the story behind Kessil Comics?

Brian: Growing with LEDs is a relatively new concept and there are a lot of misconceptions on what LEDs can and cannot do. Doing this comic is a fun, simple way to educate people about LEDs and pass on our message. Through these likeable, relatable characters, we try to translate complex concepts for people to understand and enjoy.

MY: What can Australian growers expect from Kessil in the future?

Brian: We’ve been expanding our worldwide presence, from the US to Canada, to the UK, and Asia, so Australia is definitely a market we’re interested in. To gear up for our Australian debut, we’ve not only been talking with different distributors, we’re also evaluating the power supplies used for our lights so that it can match the standard cords used in Australia. With a strong representative in Australia to help us distribute our products, we hope to reach out to and serve the growers in this market. In addition, through this partnership with Maximum Yield, participating in their promotions and contributing to this magazine, we will be able to have a greater presence not only in Australia, but around the world. MY Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Chelated

Micronutrients

by Donald Lester

Agricultural scientist Donald Lester details the benefits of highly efficient chelated micronutrients—that aid in enhanced plant growth and greater yields—and defines the various types to help you choose the very best option for your indoor garden.

Plants need the essential nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium—the N-P-K on fertilizer labels—in large amounts, so these are referred to as macronutrients. Plants also need essential micronutrients (also known as trace minerals) such as calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron and manganese. Micronutrients come in many different forms that affect their solubility (i.e., dissolvability) in water and their uptake and usage by plants.

Micronutrients commonly react with other chemicals and get “tied up” or precipitate in the soil. Once this happens the micronutrients are insoluble in water and will not be absorbed or used by the plant, at least not until micro-organisms or weather breaks them down into a usable form. So, you could literally add a lot of one micronutrient to the soil but the plant will use only a small amount. A good example of this phenomenon can be seen with the soft mineral gypsum. Every year growers apply gypsum to their fields by the ton, but since it is not very soluble in water only a very small amount of calcium is available to the plant.

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Nutrient

Crop

Foliar

Soil

Citation

Photo by Dennis Tasa

Zinc (ZnSO4) annual crops 1 12 Lingle & Holmberg (1956) It takes a long time for soil PO ) beans, tomatoes 1 20 Wittwer, et al. (1957) Phosphorus (H microbes and weather to break 3 4 grain sorghum 1 25 Withee & Carlson (1959) Iron (FeSO4) down these compounds so that plants can use them. Foliar grain sorghum 1 100 Krantz (1962) Magnesium (MgSO4) applications do not suffer from Magnesium (MgSO4) celery 1 50 to 100 Johnson, et al.(1957, 1961) this phenomenon (table one).

Table 1. Relative amounts of nutrient needed for comparable effect in the plant, by method of application.

Fertilizer manufacturers produce several different forms of micronutrients such as salts, “Amino acids are building blocks in oxides and chelates. The chelated micronutrients are becoming popular because of their high efficiency. Knowing a bit about the cell machinery. Everything is used, various types of chelated micronutrients can help you choose the nothing is lost.” one that is right for you.

Gypsum, a soft mineral composed of calcium sulphate dihydrate, is only mildly water soluble, so only small amount of calcium becomes available to plants.

What is a chelate?

Chelation is a term that describes an encapsulation process. A mineral, like calcium for example, reacts with another material to form a protective shell around the desired mineral or metal (in this case calcium).The word chelate derives from the Greek word “chel”, meaning a crab’s claw, and refers to the pincer-like manner in which the mineral is bound. Some chelating chemicals are shaped like a letter ‘C’ and surround the mineral with just one molecule.This type of binding is called a “complex”.When two molecules of the same material surround a mineral it is known as a chelate. It is important to note that some minerals, like boron or molybdenum, have only one chemical bond and are thus limited to forming only a complex. Strictly speaking, boron and molybdenum cannot be chelated minerals but they are often presented and sold in the market as chelated minerals.

Chelates need a “glue” to hold the protective shell in place. Some chelates use sodium for this purpose, but adding sodium can be detrimental to plants. In general the amino acid chelates use organic acids like citric acid.There is an important distinction to be made

here about the use of the word organic. In chemistry the term organic means the material contains carbon. In the organic foods world the term organic refers to foods produced without pesticides, synthetic substances, sewage products and other restrictions.

Chelates are molecules with a neutral charge, which is very important. Micronutrients normally have an electrical charge on them. For example, calcium and magnesium are both +2 charge.

Soil is generally negative in charge, especially clay soils. This means that calcium and magnesium will likely react with the soil and be insoluble and not available for plants to use. Moreover, since they are the same charge, calcium and magnesium compete with each other for entry into the plant. Pores on the leaves of plants (also known as stomates) are negatively charged, so positively charged molecules trying to penetrate the plant get tied up at the stomate entrance thus slowing absorption. But the interaction with chelates is very different. The neutral charge of chelated minerals allows them to enter the stomates unimpeded. Research into nutrient uptake has shown that some materials applied to leaves do not enter the tissues but instead remain stuck to the leaf surface like house paint. Subsequent chemical analysis of these tissues would show similar nutrient levels as those tissues that had nutrient penetration. In light of this oversight researchers now apply nutrients to the leaves and then analyze the fruits to measure the amount of nutrient movement inside the plant.

There are several types of chelates. One of the most common forms is Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid (EDTA), which has been on the market for years. EDTA is a large synthetic molecule that binds very tightly to minerals and resists chemical interactions—desirable characteristics for chelates used in the soil.

But this strong bonding characteristic can be a negative attribute once EDTA is in the plant. EDTA binds tightly. In fact, when people have heavy metal poisoning EDTA is injected into their bloodstream to chelate the metals and filter them out. Obviously patients do not want EDTA releasing heavy metals back into their body prematurely. In addition, EDTA can solve one plant nutrient deficiency and at the same time cause another. EDTA has something of a separation anxiety, it must always hold on to Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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chelated micronutrients

“Some materials applied to leaves do not enter the tissues but instead remain stuck to the leaf surface like house paint.”

A hold on things The word chelate derives from the Greek word “chel”, meaning a crab’s claw, and refers to the pincer-like manner in which one mineral is bound by another.

something. For example, iron EDTA will cure iron deficiency in plants, but in order for the EDTA to release the iron it must hold onto something else. Often EDTA will take up manganese in order to release the iron, thus causing a manganese deficiency.

Furthermore, EDTA is known to take calcium from cell walls in both plants and people. For this reason people put on EDTA are often instructed to take calcium supplements as well. Plants losing calcium in this manner (primarily from their cell walls) visually manifest the loss as wilting.

Another category of chelate is the amino acid chelates. There are 20 amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Amino acids are moderately strong chelating agents.

Once inside the plant the mineral is released and the left over amino acids that formed the protective shell are used by the plant as a source of water soluble nitrogen. After all, amino acids are building blocks in cell machinery. Everything is used, nothing is lost. Conversely, EDTA is a synthetic molecule, and plants do not naturally use EDTA. It’s sort of like trans fat; the human body doesn’t know what to do with it. Amino acid chelates are generally systemic in the plant meaning they move and travel to where they are needed. They can do this because amino acids are recognized by the plant as building blocks and are used in nearly every tissue in the plant. Amino acid chelates are available as liquids or powders and generally available for use in organic food production.

Glycine chelates (also known as glycinates) are a subset of amino acid chelates. Glycine is the smallest amino acid and it is often used as a chelating agent. Since glycine is small it makes a small final product that passes through leaf pores (stomates) Good things in small packages Glycine chelates (also known as glycinates) are a subset of amino acid chelates. Since glycine is small it makes a small final product that passes through leaf pores (stomates) more easily than other larger molecules, thus enhancing plant uptake.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

more easily than other larger molecules, thus enhancing plant uptake. And don’t forget, glycine chelates have glycine which is an amino acid. When the glycine is separated from the mineral in the plant, the plant uses the glycine. Glycine chelates are sometimes used in wine production because they supply not only the desired nutrients, but the glycine also supplies Yeast Available Nitrogen (YAN). This means that the yeast can break down the glycine and use the nitrogen in the formation of its cell walls.

Because chelates enter the plant easily they are extremely useful for quickly correcting nutrient deficiencies. As a rule chelates are very safe for the plant. The amino acid chelates (glycine chelates included) require large amounts of product to be applied in order to be toxic to plants. But care must be taken to avoid phytotoxicity or burning of plant tissues with EDTA.

Using amino acid chelated micronutrients Amino acid chelates are especially suitable for greenhouse and hydroponics systems because they are usually certified organic, readily available for uptake by plants by both roots and foliage and generally are not phytotoxic. For example, in aquaponic systems where fish are integrated into the hydroponics system it is important that nothing synthetic enter the tissues or meat of the fish. Therefore, the use of organic materials is an obvious choice, and the amino acid chelates can be applied directly to the foliage or to the nutrient solution for immediate correction of nutrient deficiencies. When shopping for chelated minerals look for the characteristics listed below. MY

Shopping for Chelated Micronutrients Desirable Characteristics • Formulation is safe for plants • Does not promote other deficiencies • Readily available to the plant • No sodium • Organic certification Undesirable Characteristics • Formulation is prone to burning • Needs ion replacement to release micronutrient • Slow uptake • Contains sodium • Not organically certified organically certified

PRODUCT

Continues from page 13

spotlight

House & Garden Shooting Powder Shooting Powder is a sparkling bud expander that gives visible results. It can be combined with all base nutrients, is packed in a handy sachet, is simple to use and has been extensively tested in House & Garden’s research and development centre. Try it once and you will come back for more. This flowering booster significantly increases fruit weight. It actually creates a new layer of top of the existing fruit. Output increases of over 20 per cent can be reached this way. Shooting Powder is available from hydro shops in Australia and New Zealand.

Greenstar Welcomes Another Great Product to Our Lineup Greenstar Plant Products is proud to now distribute a long-standing industry staple, Wilt Pruf®. A natural pine oil emulsion, Wilt Pruf® protects valuable shrubs and ornamentals when under water stress by reducing moisture loss through foliage. Wilt Pruf® is the safe way to reduce moisture loss from windburn, winter kill, drought or transplant shock. Greenstar is pleased to carry Wilt Pruf in a 950 millilitre ready-to-use (RTU) and a 3.8 litre concentrate. For more information visit your favourite indoor gardening shop.

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

41

TALKING SHOP

AT A GLANCE Company: Simply Hydroponics Owners: Ric, Paul and Stef Sorrentino Location: 5/411-413 Old Geelong Road,Hoppers Crossing, Victoria Phone: (03) 9360 9344 E-mail: stef@simplyhydroponics.com.au Web: www.simplyhydroponics.com.au Motto: “We give expert advice and offer quality products so you can achieve maximum yields.”

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Co

-o

w

r ne

Ri

cw

ith

M

ar

k

Our business should really be called “two bros and a sis” instead of Simply Hydroponics, because we are a family owned business comprised of—not surprising—two brothers and a sister: Ric, Paul and Stef. When you walk in to our store, a friendly and familiar face greets you each time. Also as a family business we can stay open for longer trading hours should the need arise.

We are open seven days a week every day of the year so you are never stuck during an emergency.

Ric is the founder of Simply Hydroponics and his roots in the industry began some 20 years when he built custom hydroponic systems in his garage. Before opening Simply Hydroponics in Hoppers Crossing, Ric was a fitter and turner.

As a young 26-year-old father of two young children, Ric had a desire to offer his children more than he could offer them as a humble fitter and turner.

Ric had a vision to build his own hydroponic business with a service that was not offered at the time—custom built hydroponic systems. Within 12 months the business grew to a point where the garage just wasn’t big enough anymore. That’s when Ric opened the first Simply Hydroponics store in Hoppers Crossing. With his shrewd business sense and strong work ethic, Ric has managed o in to build a successful business that has spanned 18 years. He has nt e r or a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field and is fS te S passionate about the hydroponic world.

Paul has a sales background that spans 20 years selling goods from major retail outlets. He decided his talent was being wasted and it was time to pour all his energy and potential into his own business.

Paul has a dynamic and energetic personality. He’s honest and personable, which the customers appreciate. Paul enjoys this industry, and his enthusiasm shows when he talks to customers—customers who come back time and time again asking for him.

Stef has a corporate background in finance and administration.

Having worked for major corporations, Stef was fed up with the bureaucratic rigidness and needed something less controlling and more fun. Having come to a crossroads around the same time, Paul and Stef decided to pool their resources and launch the second Simply Hydroponic shop—which is based in Epping—three years ago.

We have six people working the two stores and everyone has extensive knowledge in this industry. Mark—our long-term employee—knows this industry inside out and our customers enjoy the rapport they have with him.

as this gives us valuable information and knowledge that we can pass on to others.

We’re aiming to open two more stores this year so keep checking our website www.simplyhydroponics.com.au for updates.

“We want our customers to be successful with their hobby farms so we strive to give them the best advice, best products and best direction.”

We carry a huge range of equipment and products, from the better known brands to the less known. Some of the products in our range are:

As we are customer focused, our objective is to meet the needs of every single customer that walks through our doors. We want our customers to be successful with their hobby farms so we strive to give them the best advice, best products and best direction so they can achieve the highest possible yields and high quality end product.

In order to meet our objectives we are constantly seeking better products to offer our customers, as well as researching the most current product information. We also strive to offer the best prices so we can pass these savings on to our customers. We search for new products all the time and test these products for effectiveness and performance so we can see the results and recommend only the best to our customers. We also value customer feedback and enjoy listening to our customer’s gardening experiences

a. Canna because of their universal recognition and popularity b. House & Garden because of their great products, especially our personal favourite, Shooting Powder c. Rapid Nutrients because of their excellent mineral composition, which plants seem to thrive on d. Flairform’s Pythoff because it’s a great nutrient conditioner e. Cyco’s Dr Repair because our customer’s love how it magically restores a distressed plant back to health within 48 hours f. Nutrifield because our customer request it g. GE, Solarmax, Powerplant, Son-T and GrowLush Globes because of their reliability and warranty We have two warehouses fully stocked so you never have to wait for products or equipment as we usually have everything that’s required to satisfy everyone’s growing needs. Come and visit us at either of the two locations. We are really friendly and love to see new faces. MY Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

43

RETAIL

directory

AUSTRALIA ACT

South Pacific Hydroponics #2 - 84 - 86 Wollongong St., Fyshwick ACT 2609 South Pacific Hydroponics 70 Oatley Court , Belconnen ACT 2617

(02) 6239 2598 (02) 6251 0600

NEW SOUTH WALES ABC Aquaculture 54 Wahroonga Road, Kanwal NSW 2259 (61) 2 4393 3131 ASE Hydroponics Factory 10/45 Leighton Pl., Hornsby NSW 2077 (02) 9477 3710 Ballina Hydro 3 Ray O’Niell Crescent, Ballina NSW 2478 (02) 6686 7321 Brunswick Hydro & Aquarium Supplies 19 Booyun Street, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483 (02) 6685 1552 Criscete Hydroponics and Organics Unit 2/15 Kam Close, Morisset, NSW 2264 (02) 4973 5779 Dr. Van Der Bloom’s Hydroponics Supplies 5/5 Forge Drive, Coff’s Harbour, NSW 2450 (02) 6651 9992 Dubbo Hydro & Tobacconist 42c Victoria Street, Dubbo West NSW 2830 (02) 6885 1616 Ezi Grow Hydro 177 Mt Druit Road, Mt Druitt NSW 2770 (02) 9832 1610 Ezi Grow Hydro 1B/340 Windsor Street, Richmond NSW 2753 (02) 4588 5826 Ezi Grow Hydro 56 Fish Parade, Bathurst NSW 2795 (02) 9832 1610 Ezi Grow Hydro - Head Office 18 Part Street, Eglinton NSW 2795 (02) 6337 1485 Favgro Hydroponics Growers 107 Glenella Road, Batehaven NSW 2536 (02) 4472 7165 Felanza - Hydroponics 140 Princess Highway, Arncliffe, NSW 2205 (02) 9556 1494 General Hydroponics 7/14 Sunnyholt Road, Blacktown NSW 9676 (02) 9676 8682 Grow Australia Factory 1/5 Sefton Road, Thronleigh NSW 2120 (02) 9473 5000 Grow Your Own Unit 6/34 Alliance Ave, Morisset NSW 2264 (02) 4973 5179 Happy Grow Hydro 15/The Crescent Street, Penrith NSW 2750 (02) 4732 2870 Hobby Grow 6/46 Through Street South Grafton NSW 2460 (04) 2283 8069 Home Harvest 423 Princess Highway, Rockdale NSW 2216 (02) 9567 8841 Hyalite Moorebank 6/376 Newsbridge Road, Moorebank NSW 2170 (02) 9824 3400 Hyalite Villawood 2/21 Birmingham Avenue, Villawood NSW 2163 (02) 9723 7199 Hydro Masta 100 Station Road, Seven Hills, Sydney NSW 2147 (02) 8812 2845 Hydro Masta Pty Ltd 76 Beecroft Road, Epping NSW 2121 (02) 9869 3011 Hydro Net 2/14 Aific Street, Long Jetty NSW 2261 (02) 4334 6955 Hydro Place 1/68 Nelson Street, Wallsend NSW 2287 (02) 4965 6595 Hydro Shop and Reptile Supplies 2/390 The Esplanade, Warners Bay NSW 2282 (02) 4958 1489 Hydro Shop Pty Ltd Unit 1/5-7 Channel Road, Mayfield West NSW 2304 (02) 4960 0707 Hydro Supplies 57 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 (02) 9326 0307 Hydro Wise B/385 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty NSW 2261 (02) 4333 5700 Hydroponics Grow All Year 14 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (02) 6921 5911 Hygrow Horticulture (Greenlite) 252 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 (02) 9369 3928 Indoor Sun Shop 745 Victoria Road, Top Ryde NSW 2112 (02) 9808 6511 Indoor Sun Shop Unit 2/109 Junction Road, Moorebank NSW 2170 (02) 9822 4700 International Fans PO Box 120, St. Mary’s NSW 2760 (02) 9833 7500 Kyper’s Tools and Hydroponics Stuart & Tincogan Sts, Mullumbimby NSW 2482 (02) 6684 4928 Lismore Hydro 1/106 Canway Street, Lismore NSW 2480 (02) 6621 3311

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

Lismore Hydroponics rear of 28 Casino St., South Lismore, NSW 2480 Northern Nursery Supplies Pty Ltd 14-16 Nance Road, Kempsey NSW 2440 Nowra Hydro 68 Bridge Road, Nowra NSW 2541 Nutriflo Hydroponic Systems 19/5 Daintree Place, Gosford West NSW 2250 Parkview Plants 250 Princess Highway, Nowra South NSW 2541 Port Pumps and Irrigation 20 Uralla Road, Pt Macquarie NSW 2444 Quik Grow 510a Great Western Hwy., Pendle Hill NSW 2145 Quick Grow 823 King Georges Road, S. Hurstville NSW 2221 Quik Grow Pty Ltd 490 Parramatta Road, Petersham NSW 2049 Simple Grow Hassall Street & Windem, Wetherill Pk NSW 2164 Tweed Coast Hydroponics 2/58 Machinery Dr., Tweeds Head South NSW 2486 Uncle Wal’s Gardenland 31 Crescent Avenue, Taree NSW 2430 Home Grown Aquaponics 13/8a-8b Hartley Drive, Thornton NSW 2322 Westside Lighting & Electrical (Ezi Range) PO Box 274, Mascot NSW 1400 Wollongong Hydroponic Center 318 Crown Street, Wollongong NSW 2500 NORTHERN TERRITORY Katherine Hydroponics Centre 17 Rundle Street, Katherine NT 0850 QUEENSLAND A Happy Medium Hydroponics Unit2/10 Central Court, Browns Plains QLD 4118 Allgrow Hydro 13 - 58 Bullock Head St., Sumner Park QLD 4074 Aquatic Oasis Unit 2/33 Smith Street, Capalaba QLD 4157 Billabong Hydroponics Lot 1, Billabong Court, Childers QLD 4660 D-Bay Hydroponics Shop 5/404 Deception Bay Road, Deception Bay QLD 4508 E.T. Grow Home Unit 1/4 Windmill Street, Southport QLD 4215 Eye Lighting Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 306, Carole Park QLD 4300 Green Power Hydroponics 2/80 Beerburrum Road, Caboolture QLD 4510 Grow Hydro 22 Mining Street, Bundamba QLD 4304 Hyalite Varsity 5/11 John Duncan Crt.,Varsity Lakes QLD 4227 Hydroponic Roots & Shoots Lot 3 Herberton Road, Atherton QLD 4883 Hydroponics & Garden Supplies 93 Cook St., Portsmith QLD 4870 Hydroponics Today PO Box 785, Stanthorpe QLD 4380 Indoor Solutions Unit 2 / 79 Oxford Tce., Taringa QLD 4068 J&K Hydroponics 10 Wacol Station Road, Wacol, Brisbane QLD, 4076 KY Garden 3/31 Argyle PDE, Darra Brisbane QLD 4076 Nerang Hydroponic Centre 27 Lawrence Drive, Nerang QLD 4211 North Queensland Hydro Supplies Shop 2B/20-22 Fleming St., Townsville QLD 4810 Northern Hydroponics 383 Mulgrave Road, Cairns QLD 4870 Pioneer Hydroponics 194 Doyles Road, Pleystowe QLD 4741 SA Hydroponics Shed 3, 1191 Anzac Avenue, Kallangar QLD 4503 Simply Hydroponics Gold Coast 42 Lawrence Drive, Nerang QLD 4211

(02) 6621 3311 (02) 6563 1599 (02) 4423 3224 (02) 4323 1599 (02) 4423 0599 (02) 6581 1272 (02) 9636 7023 (02) 9546 8642 (02) 9568 2900 (02) 9604 0469 (07) 5524 8588 (02) 6550 0221 (02) 4028 6388 1 800 661 475 (02) 4225 8773

(08) 8972 1730

(07) 3809 3322 (07) 3376 7222 (07) 3245 7777 (07) 4126 3551 (07) 3204 8324 (07) 5591 6501 (07) 3335 3556 (07) 5428 1133 (07) 3816 3206 (07) 5593 7385 (07) 4091 3217 (07) 4035 5422 (07) 4683 3133

(07) 3271 6210 (07) 3375 9098 (07) 5527 4155 (07) 4728 3957 (07) 4054 5884 (07) 4959 2016 (07) 3285 1355 (07) 5596 2250

Sunstate Hydroponics 1137 Ipswitch Road, Moorooka QLD 4105 Sunstate Hydroponics 67 Aerodrome Road, Maroochydore QLD 4558 The Hydroponic Warehouse Shop 3/73 PIckering Street, Enoggera QLD 4051 Tumbling Waters Hydroponics 2 Clarkes Track, Malanda QLD 4885 Walsh’s Seeds Garden Centre 881 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350 SOUTH AUSTRALIA Amazon Aquariums & Gardening Unit 5, 16 Research Road, Pooraka SA 5095 Ascot Park 753 Marion Road, Ascot Park SA 5043 Barry’s Hardware Saints & Main North Rd., Salisbury Plains SA 5109 Bolzon Home & Garden 103 Tolley Road, St Agnes SA 5097 Chocablock Discount Variety Store 15-17/1220 Grand Junction, Hope Valley SA 5090 Complete Hydroponics 1581 Main North Road Salisbury East SA 5109 Country Hydro 434 Saddleback Road, Whyalla SA 5600 D & W Dependable Hardware 45B Kettering Road, Elizabeth South SA 5112 Festive Hydro 2 Kreig Street, Evanston Park SA 5116 Fulham Gardener Nursery 597 Tapleys Hill Road, Fulham SA 5024 Futchatec Distribution 4 Symonds St. Royal Park, 5014 Glandore Hydroponics 644 - 646 South Road, Glandore SA 5037 Greener then Green 52 - 54 Cliff Avenue, Port Noarlunga South SA 51 Greenhouse Superstore Lonsdale 35 to 37 Aldenhoven Road SA 5160 Greenhouse Superstore Royal Park 4 Symonds St. Royal Park SA 5014 Ground-Up Service Nursery 3 Copinger Road, Pt. Pirie SA 5540 Harvest Time Hydroponics Shop 3/146-148, Findon Road, Findon SA 5023 Hindmarsh Hydroponics 39a Manton Street, Hindmarsh SA 5095 Highland Hydro 14/1042 Grand Junction Road, Holden Hill SA 5088 Hong Kong Hydro 13 Research Road, Pooraka SA 5095 Hydro Heaven Kane Motors-Hunt Road, Mount Barker SA 5251 Hydro Sales & Service 1 Salisbury Crescent, Colonel Light SA 5041 Hydro Technics 321 South Road, Croydon SA 5008 Hydro Warehouse 181 Seacombe Road, South Brighton SA 5048 Hydro World 40 Folland Avenue, Northfield SA 5085 Koko’s Hydro Warehouse Unit 2/2 McGowan Street, Pooraka SA 5095 Larg’s Bay Garden Supply 239 Victoria Road, Largs Bay SA 5016 Martins Road Hydro # 5- 353 Martins Road, Parafield Gardens SA 5107 Mitre 10 Drive In 152 Hanson Road, Mansfield Park SA 5012 New Age Hydroponics 135-137 Sir Donald Bradman Dr., Hilton SA 5033 Owen Agencies 17-19 Railway Terrace, Owen SA 5460 Professional Hydro 4/522 Grange Road, Fulham Gardens SA 5024 Professional Hydro Shop 5/645 Lower North East Road SA 5075 Professional Hydroponics 113 Maurice Road, Murray Bridge SA

(07) 3848 5288 (07) 5479 1011 (07) 3354 1588 (07) 4096 6443 (07) 4636 1077

(08) 8359 1800 (08) 8357 4700 (08) 8281 4066 (08) 8265 0665 (08) 8396 3133 (08) 8258 4022 (08) 8645 3105 (08) 8287 6399 (08) 8523 5100 (08) 8235 2004 (08) 8447-1122 (08) 8371 5777 (08) 8386 2596 (08) 8382 0100 (08) 8447 5899 (08) 8264 9455 (08) 8244 0222 (08) 8346 9461 (08) 8395 4455 (08) 8260 2000 (08) 8391 1880 (08) 8272 2000 (08) 8241 5022 (08) 8377 1200 (08) 8262 8323 (08) 8260 5463 (08) 8242 3788 (08) 8283 4011 (08) 8445 1813 (08) 8351 9100 (08) 8528 6008 (08) 8353 0133 (08) 8365 5172 (08) 8532 3441

Seaton Hydroponics 129 Tapleys Hill Road Seaton SA 5023 Soladome Aquaculture & Hydro 44 Chapel St., Norwood SA 5067 South Coast Hydroponics 6/25 Gulfview Road, Christies Beach SA 5165 State Hydroponics 174 Semaphore Road, Exeter SA 5019 Tea Tree Gully Hydro 32 Famechon Cresent, Modbury North SA 5092 Two Wells Hardware 86 Old Port Wakefield Road, Two Wells SA 5501 Urban Grow Solutions 1/111 Main Sth Rd, O’Halloran Hill, S.A 5189 West Garden Centre Peachey Road, Elizabeth West SA 5113

(08)82682636 (08) 8362 8042 (08) 8384 2380 (08) 8341 5991 (08) 8264 9455 (08) 8520 2287 (08) 8322 0040 (08) 8255 1355

TASMANIA

Advanced Hydroponics 26 Mulgrave Street, South Launceston Tas 7249 Ezy Grow 625 East Derwent Highway, Lindisfarne Tas 7015 Garden World 717 West Tamar Highway, Legana Tas 7277 Green Acres Hydroponics Unit 1 46-48 Bingalong Rd, Mornington, TAS 7018 Growers Choice 225 Main Road, Derwent Park Tas 7009 Hydroponics Systems 131 Main Rd, Moonah, TAS 7009 Hydroponic World 322 Bass Highway, Sulphur Creek Tas 7316 Organic Garden Supplies Tas 17 Don Road, Devonport Tas 7310 Tas Hydroponic Supplies 99 Lampton Avenue, Derwent Park Tas 7009 The Hydroponic Company 69 Charles Street, Moonah Tas 7009 The Hydroponics Company 289 Hobart Road, Kings Medow Tas 7428

(03) 6344 5588 (03) 6243 9490 (03) 6330 1177 (03) 6245 1066 (03) 6273 6088 (03) 6278 3457 (03) 6435 4411 (03) 6424 7815 (03) 6272 2202 (03) 6273 1411 (03) 6340 2222

VICTORIA

Albury Hydroponics 62 Thomas Mitchell Drive, Springvale Vic 3171 All Seasons Hydroponics 3 Springvale Road, Springvale Vic 3171 Banksia Greenhouse and Outdoor Garden 530 Burwood Highway, Wantirna Vic 3152 Barb’s Hydro and Nursery 15 Wallace Avenue, Interverloch Vic 3196 Bayside Hydroponics Factory 2/8 Rutherford Road, Seaford Vic 3196 Belgrave Hydroponics 5/ 60-68 Colby Drive, Belgrave Heights Vic 3160 Brew ‘N’ Grow 4 - 479 Nepean Highway, Edithvale Vic 3199 Casey Hydro 12 The Arcade Street, Cranbourne Vic 3977 Casey Hydro 78 Spring Square, Hallam Vic 3803 Chronic Hydroponics 31 Anderson Street, Templestowe Vic 3106 Complete Garden Supplies 580 Ballarat Road, Sunshine Vic 3020 Discount Hydroponics 752 Waverley Road, Chadstone Vic 3148 Echuca Hydroponic Nursery & Supplies 23 Ogilvie Avenue, Echuca Vic 3564 Echuca Pump Shop 128 Ogilvie Avenue, Echuca Vic 3564 Excel Distributors Pty Ltd 2/41 Quinn Street, Preston Vic 3072 F.L.O.W. Plants and Environments 66B Chapel Street, Windsor Vic 3181 Gardensmart 810-834 Springvale Road, Keysborough Vic 3173 Global Hydroponics 10 Knight Avenue, Sunshine Vic 3020 Greenleaf Hydroponics 9a Church Street, Traralgon Vic 3844

(03) 9540 8000 (03) 9540 8000 (03) 9801 8070 (03) 5674 2584 (03) 9775 0495 (03) 9754 3712 (03) 9783 3006 (03) 5996 3697 (03) 9796 3776 (03) 9646 8133 (03) 9311 9776 (03) 9568 1860 (03) 5480 2036 (03) 5480 7080 (03) 9495 0083 (03) 9510 6832 (03) 9769 1411 (03) 9356 9400 (03) 5176 0898

Greenleaf Hydroponics Factory 7, Industrial Park Drive, Lilydale Vic 3140 GreenLite - Ringwood 291 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood Vic 3134 Grow 4 XS Rear 24 Simms Road, Greensborough Vic 3088 Holland Forge Pty Ltd. 5 Hi-tech Place, Rowville Vic 3178 Hydroware 59a Lara Way, Campbellfield, Vic, 3061 Hyalite Airport West Unit 4/504-506 Fullarton Road, Airport West 3042 Hyalite Bayswater 4/19 Jersey Road, Bayswater Vic 3153 Hyalite Global 10 Knight Avenue, Sunshine North Vic 3020 Hyalite Westend 3 Third Avenue, Sunshine Vic 3020 Indoor Garden Company 29 Glasgow Street, Collingwood Vic 3066 Impact Distribution PO Box 2188, Salisbury Downs 5108 JB Lighting 492 - 500 Neerim Road, Murrumbeena Vic 3163 Just Hydroponics Deer Park Unit 11 29-39 Westwood Drive, Deer Park, VIC 3023 Just Hydroponics Geelong Unit 7 36-38 Saunders street, North Geelong, VIC 3215 Latrove Valley Home Brew Supplies PO Box 802, Morwell Vic 3804 Living Jungle 345 Sommerville Road, Footscray West Vic 3012 Melton Hydroponic Supplies 18/10 Norton Drive, Melton Vic 3194 Midtown Hydroponics Factory 1, 821B Howitt St., Wendouree Vic 3355 One Stop Sprinklers 1 Burwood Highway, Wantirna Vic 3152 Pam’s Home Brew & Hydroponics 61 McArthur Street, Sale Vic 3850 Palms & Plants 175 Salisbury Highway, Salisbury S.A. 5108 Shepparton Hydroponics 87A Archer Street, Shepparton Vic 3630 Simply Hydroponics 5/ 411-413 Old Geelong Rd., Hoppers Cros. 3029 Simply Hydroponics 8, 59-61 Miller St., Epping 3076 Sunlite Hydroponics 1/104 Shannon Avenue, Geelong West Vic 3281 Sunray Hydro 157 Tenth Street, Mildura Vic 3500 Supply Net International P/L PO Box 171, Highbury Vic 5089 The Hydroponic Connection 397 Dorset Road, Boronia Vic 3155 Waterworks Hydroponics Unit 1, 5 Brand Drive, Thomastown Vic 3074 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Accent Hydroponics Unit 2/141 Russell Street, Morley WA 6062 Aqua Post Unit 2B 7 Yampi Way, Willetton WA 6155 Aquaponics Lot 12 Warton Road, Canning Vale WA 6155 Bunbury Alternate Growing Supplies 8/13 Worcestor Bend, Davenport, WA 6230 Creative Hydroponics 1/95 Dixon Road, Rockingham WA 6168 Great Southern Hydroponics Shop 1, 21 Hennessy Road, Bunbury WA 6230 Greenfingers World of Hydroponics Albany Hwy & Kelvin Rd.,Maddington WA 6109 Greenfingers World of Hydroponics Unit C 14-16 Elliot Street, Midvale WA 6056 Greenlite Hydroponics 4/91 Wanneroo Road, Tuart Hill WA 6060

(03) 9739 7311 (03) 9870 8566 (03) 9435 6425 (03) 9764 1372 (03) 9357 8805 (03) 9331 5452 (03) 9720 1946 (03) 9356 9400 (03) 9311 3510 (03) 9416 1699 (08) 8250-1515 (03) 9569 4399 (03) 8390 0861 (03) 5278 6478 (03) 5133 9140 (03) 9314 0055 (03) 9746 9256 (03) 5339 1300 (03) 9800 2177 (03) 5143 1143 (08) 8285 7575 (03) 5831 6433 (03) 9360 9344 (03) 9408 4677 (03) 5222 6730 (03) 5023 6422 (88) 264-3600 (03) 9761 0662 (03) 9465 1455

(08) 9375 9355 (08) 9354 2888 1800 640 222 (08) 9725 7020 (08) 9528 1310 (08) 9721 8322 (08) 9452 0546 (08) 9274 8388 (08) 9345 5321

Growsmart Hydroponics 47768 South Coast Highway, Albany WA 6330 Hydro Nation 41A Rockingham Road, Hamilton Hill WA 6163 Hydroponic Solutions 1/1928 Beach Road, Malaga WA 6090 Hydroponic Warehouse Unit 7/627 Wanneroo Road, Wanneroo WA 6065 Hydroponica 317 Guildford Road, Maylands WA 6051 Isabella’s Hydroponics 66 Jambanis Road, Wanneroo WA 6065 Johnson’s Nursery Garden Centre 30 Blencowe Road, Geralton WA 6530 Neerabup Organic & Hydroponic Supplies Unit 1, 21 Warman St. Neerabup WA 6031 One Stop Hydroponics 947 Beaufort Street, Inglewood WA 6052 Perth Hydroponic Centre Shop 4, 171-175 Abernathy Road, Belmont WA 6104 Reptile and Grow Store Unit 7 - 117-119 Dixon Road, Rockingham WA 6168 Southwest Hydroponics Lot 29, Pinjarra Road, Mandurah WA 6210 The Grow Room 1/1451 Albany Highway, Cannington WA 6107 Bloem PO Box 1816, Subiaco WA 6008 The Watershed Water Systems 150 Russell Street, Morley WA 6062 The Watershed Water Systems 2874 Albany Highway, Kelmscott WA 6111 The Watershed Water Systems 1/146 Great Eastern Highway, Midland WA 6210 Water Garden Warehouse 14 Drake Street, Osborne Park WA 6017

(08) 9841 3220 (08) 9336 7368 (08) 9248 1901 (08) 9206 0188 (08) 9371 5757 (08) 9306 3028 (08) 9921 6016 (08) 9404 7155 (08) 9471 7000 (08) 9478 1211 (08) 9527 2245 (08) 9534 8544 (08) 9356 7044 (08) 9217 4400 (08) 9473 1473 (08) 9495 1495 (08) 9274 3232 (08) 9443 7993

NEW ZEALAND

Easy Grow New Lynn 3018 Gt North Rd New Lynn, Auckland Easy Grow Manukau 15/69 Wiri Station Road, Manukau, Auckland Guru Gardener 14 Molesworth St., New Plymouth Otaki Hydroponics 1083 S.H. 1 South Otaki House of Hydro 221 Waiwhetu Rd., Lower Hutt Wellington Pet and Garden 10 Fitzgerald Ave., Christchurch Grow and Brew 14a Flexman Place, Silverdale Auckland Green Day Hydroponics Cnr of Maunganui Rd & Tawa St., Mt Maunganui Switched on Gardener Number 189 (Lower) Dent Street, Whangarei Switched on Gardener Unit 159 Central Park Drive, Henderson Switched on Gardener Unit 1/60 Ti Rakau Drive, Pakuranga Switched on Gardener Number 1c Sunshine Ave, Hamilton Switched on Gardener Number 513 Heretaunga Street West, Hastings Switched on Gardener Number 62 Kaiwharawhara Road, Wellington Switched on Gardener Unit 7/67 View Road, Glenfield Switched on Gardener Number 1 Rata Street, New Lynn Switched on Gardener Number 57 Cavendish Drive, Manukau Switched on Gardener Number 427 Cameron Road, Tauranga Switched on Gardener Number 1060 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt Switched on Gardener Number 3 Pascoe Street, Nelson Switched on Gardener Number 9 Buckley Road, Linwood Switched on Gardener Number 143 Tuam Street, Christchurch CBD Switched on Gardener Number 313 King Edward Street, Dunedin

09 827 0883 09 263 7560 06 758 6661 06 364 2206

03 377 2507 09 426 2095 07 575 4090 (09)438 0223 (09) 837 1210 (09) 576 0296 (07) 850 8351 (06) 876 7885 (04) 472 5265 (09) 443 0106 (09) 826 4444 (09) 263 4336 (07) 579 9840 (04) 526 3913 (03) 546 4769 (03) 381 0937 (03) 374 5682 (03) 456 1980

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

45

COMING UP IN

july - Aug 2011

Fungi and the Ecosystem Within our ecosystem, certain types of fungi called Mycorrhiza assist the natural processes of life and decay.

Learn about the various types of Mycorrhiza, their growth processes and how they operate.

Humidity, Vapour Pressure Deficit and the Transpiration Stream With a strong focus on lighting, nutrients and maybe a dose of CO2, humidity in the grow room is often overlooked resulting in growth disorders and disease. Get to know what humidity looks like in the grow room.

DO YOU

know?

1

Arabidopsis thaliana (mouse-ear cress or thale cress) is an ideal organism for genetic and molecular studies due to its short lifecycle, small genome, small size and translucency, among other traits.

2

The soft mineral gypsum—composed of calcium sulphate dehydrate—is not very soluble in water so when it is applied, only a small amount of calcium is available to the plant.

3

Blanching green shoots by growing them in darkness gives an interesting and contrasting colour and provides a milder flavour and softer texture to the shoots.

4

There is concern that adding too much rooting compound to a cutting can actually slow down the rooting process or even halt it entirely.

5

Plants grown for research purposes often must be axenic, meaning they have to be free of contamination with other organisms such as bacteria and fungi.

6

EC is the true measure of electrical conductivity whereas PPM is the quantity of what’s being measured.

7

One of the most common forms of chelates is Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid (EDTA).

Advanced Aeroponics Learn how you can conserve fresh water and provide your plants with just the right amount of water and nutrients they need to grow with compressed air aeroponic systems.

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Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

8

In chemistry the term organic means the material contains carbon. In the organic foods world the term organic refers to foods produced without pesticides, synthetic substances, sewage products and other restrictions.

Maximum Yield | May/June 2011

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Maximum Yield Australia | November/December | May/June 2011 2010