Maximum Yield Canada - Jan/Feb 2010

January / February 2010 MAXIMUM YIELD CANADA

CANADA January - February 2010

FREE

ROOTS

KEEP THEM IN TOP CONDITION

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CLIMATE CONTROLLERS

BIGGER YIELDS

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Do Plants Need Them?

maximumyield.com

Indoor Gardening Expo

Steps to Success!

montreal

2010 Quebec, Canada

June 5-6

contents January / February 2010

Features

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24

Keeping Roots in Tip-Top Condition

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Seven Steps to Bigger Yields

40

Buying and Applying Mycorrhizal Fungi

46

Feed Circuits

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Preventing and Reacting to Green Algae

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How to Care for Holiday Plants After the Festivities

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Do Plants Need Climate Controllers?

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Hydroponics Fights Hunger

62 65 68 70 74 74

You Tell Us

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

by Erik Biksa

by Donald Lester

by Andrew Taylor

by Matt LeBannister

by Glory Lennon

by Isabelle Lemay agr. and Mélissa Léveillé

by Charlotte Bradley

46 Departments 6 8 10 12 14 18 58

From the Editor MaximumYield.com Letters to the Editor Ask Erik MAX Facts Product Spotlight Talking Shop

Check Your Growing IQ Max Mart Distributors Do You Know?

Coming up Next Issue

54 Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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FROM the editor Welcome to the first issue of 2010! It may have been a White Christmas, but it looks like 2010 is going to be a green year! Green rooftops. Living walls. Skyfarms.

Sustainable designs. Montreal, Toronto, Langley,Vancouver from the east coast to the west, Canadians are joining forces to grow their way to a greener community, and healthier living. Max Facts (page 14) is your source for hydroponic news, green tips and environment trivia from Canada and the world all year long. What’s going on in your community?

How are you lessening your ecological footprint with plants?

Brag about it by sharing your stories with the Maximum Yield community (email editor@maximumyield.com).

We kick the year off with some great articles including seven steps to bigger yields, keeping roots in tip top condition, buying and applying mycorrhizal fungi and more.

Discover the interesting array of new products that are bound to make a difference in your grow room. We also feature what is going on in the industry with our monthly E-News (sign up at maximumyield.com/newsletter.php) and through our ever-expanding Facebook fan page (Facebook.com/MaximumYield), now featuring resident expert Erik Biksa as our page’s moderator. I invite you to check it out!

The 2010 Indoor Gardening Expo tour has been announced. First stop is the Canadian Expo in beautiful Montreal, Quebec at the Palais des congres – June 5-6, 2010 followed by the USA Expo in San Francisco – July 24-25, 2010. Make plans now to be at these “must-attend” events. More details for exhibiting and attending at www.indoorgardenexpo.com Wishes for a Great Growing Green New Year!

Jessica Raymond, Editor editor@maximumyield.com

contributors Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.

Andrew Taylor is the manager of

Flairform (www.flairform.com) – an Australian-based manufacturing company. As an analytical chemist with qualifications in plant function and nutrition, he has over 13 years experience in product research and development, and also writes extensively on hydroponic growing techniques.

Isabelle Lemay is in charge of the technical support, customer service and research and development at Nova Biomatique Inc. (www.igrowing. com), makers of the PLUG’N’GROW climate controllers. She is an agronomist and holds a master’s degree in soil and environment studies, with a specialization in greenhouse production.

Erik Biksa holds a diploma in

Matt LeBannister works at Homegrown Hydroponics, the manufacturer of the DNF line of premium nutrients and enhancement products. Matt manages the retail store at Homegrown’s head office in Toronto and as of late has been traveling the trade show circuit as their resident expert.

Mélissa Léveillé holds a license in communication, writing and multimedia. She is the newest member of the Nova Biomatique Inc. Team (www.igrowing.com), makers of the PLUG’N’GROW climate controllers. She is responsible for Nova Biomatique Inc.’s communications.

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.

Glory Lennon’s four acre lot

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. agriculture with majors in fertilizer sciences and crop production. Erik has amassed over 18 years of indoor gardening experience and intensive research. Since first appearing in Maximum Yield in 1999, the “Ask Erik” column and numerous articles have reached growers throughout the world.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

includes an arboretum, a thriving koy pond with water lilies, two greenhouses and an orchard. She writes a garden column for a local paper and contributes to several on-line gardening websites and now Maximum Yield. Visit www.helium.com, www. greenthumbarticles.com and www. myspace.com/glorygarden

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

on the web Speed Read 1. Controlled release fertilizers (CRF) have many advantages in supplementing plant nutrition programs: they’re safe, simple and sensible. Don Mulcahy tells it like it is in his article this month on maximumyield.com 2. Got bugs? Daniel Wilson unravels indoor gardening’s silent epidemic – the widespread use of organophosphates and other toxics as a means of controlling pest activity.

3. Hydroponic plants can enrich the lives of animals as well as humans. The Verticrop hydroponic system at Paignton Zoo in the UK proves that when space is limited, options for fresh produce still exist.

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

VOLUME 12 – NUMBER 5 January/February 2010 Maximum Yield is published bi-monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 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 SALES DIRECTOR - Lisa Lambersek EDITOR - Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES 250.729.2677 Linda Jesson - linda@maximumyield.com Lisa Lambersek - lisa@maximumyield.com Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Julie Madden - julie@maximumyield.com Gaby Morin - gaby@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com

WIN IT! Enter the Win Big…Grow Big giveaway to win 1 of 4 prizes. Score high-tech growing gear and proven products from Steady Gro, EZ Clone, Homegrown Hydroponics and Green Planet Wholesale during January and February.

Enter online at maximumyield.com/winbig by February 15.

BUY IT! With the lazy days of winter setting in, January’s featured products will put you back in the growing mood. Light up your grow room (LF Series Ballast “Flip Flop), increase control (Plug’N’Grow Calibration Kit) or sweeten up your crops (Humboldt Nutrients Honey).

Join us on Facebook Maximum Yield is excited to announce resident expert Erik Biksa, our new moderator, on Facebook. With a diploma in agriculture and 18+ years of hands-on indoor gardening experience and intensive research, Erik’s regular stream of content and insights on facebook.com/MaximumYield will keep you coming back daily.

Pentti Tikkanen - pentti@maximumyield.com Alice Joe - alice@maximumyield.com Wes Cargill - wes@maximumyield.com ACCOUNTING - Lee Anne Veres leeanne@maximumyield.com

CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Quality Wholesale USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS BWGS East BWGS West General Hydroponics Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply R&M Supply Tradewinds UK DISTRIBUTION Growth Technology Hydrogarden Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Nutriculture UK AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Futchatec Growth Technology Hydraspher

online extras Look for this symbol throughout the magazine to find more exclusive online features, and don’t forget to share your opinion by emailing editor@maximumyield.com

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

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

LETTERS to the editor Do I Have to Choose Just One?

Eager Reader

The latest issue of Maximum Yield Canada (Nov/Dec) was a page-turner. I loved the saffron article by Dr. Lynette Morgan; I even ordered some bulbs.

CO2 Stability and Longevity by Erik Biksa came at the best time for me because I recently purchased a generator and infrared CO2 controller. Of course the rest of the articles were also very informative but those were my favourites.

Hi there. I was just wondering when the new edition of the Best of Maximum Yield 2010 will be available.

Complimentary

Thanks Monica Foerster Online at Max imumYield.com

The 2009 Best of Maximum Yield and International Trade Directory is available now from local indoor gardening retailers. Grab a copy today or visit maximumyield.com for a fully downloadable version, available for free.

Ralph Wilson

Nutrient Nightmare Herbal Remedy Hello! I was thinking about starting some indoor growing. I honestly have no idea where to start. Can you provide tips for someone who has never done anything like this before? I’d like to grow veggies/herbs etc. How big of a space would I require?

Thanks in advance!

Kimberly Dubois Deschamps A four foot by four foot grow tent is perfect, and you won’t need to alter your room too much. Lighting and ventilation are the tricky part; T-5 fluorescent lights are good for entry level lighting, although don’t expect the production levels that you could get from HID or LED lighting. A 600 watt HPS is the standard for a grow tent of recommended size. Dealing with the heat it creates is the hard part.

Erik Biksa

Seadawg Salute Your coverage of S & L Worx Hydroponics in Dartmouth (Talking Shop – Nov/Dec) was spot on. But what is hard to capture is the friendly and respectful TALKING SHOP way that they treat people. As a newcomer to growing, they answered all of my questions thoroughly and honestly; what a great feeling. They have become my shop of choice and friends to boot. Kudos to Scott and Loretta.

With so many nutrients available on the market, it can be confusing for growers, beginner and otherwise, to weed through the selection. Because there is so much to cover, I think it would be beneficial to include as many articles on nutrients as possible in every issue of Maximum Yield; or perhaps you could put together a nutrient-only issue, which would cover the spectrum of nutrients available, how they perform, when and how to use them and how to separate the high from the low quality nutrients. Just a suggestion.

Thanks Jody Belham

Worth the Wait Thank you for all of the great information in your E-Newsletter. I was pleasantly surprised to find it in my mailbox and full of interesting tidbits. More contests and events, and especially more input from readers and growers like myself would make it truly worthwhile. I would love to see product reviews, real-life photos, industry reports and more grow tips in future editions. I’m read through the second issue twice now, and continue to come across worthwhile insights.

Amy Lee

AT A GLANCE

Company: S&L Worx Hydroponics

Owners: Loretta Josey & Scott Reteff

Maximum Yield reserves the right to edit for brevity.

Location: 135 Main Street, Dartmouth NS

Toll Free: 877-220-GROW (4769) Email: slworx@eastlink.ca

Motto: “A happy customer is a repeat customer.”

Owners of S&L Worx Hydroponics, Loretta Josey and Scott Reteff, decided on the store name because of the closeness they share and the constant committment to each other’s businesses.

Yours The Seadawg 10

It all started In a tIny communIty In nova scotIa called marInette, located on the coast of the North Atlantic. As a child, Loretta Josey always felt like she lived in the middle of nowhere; and truly she did as there was approximately nine miles between her house and the nearest store.

Loretta was surrounded by 360 degrees of the great outdoors, day in and day out.

Entertainment for her and her three brothers was limited merely by their imaginations with nature as the backdrop for all play time activities. Her main source of amusement consisted of the Josey family’s annual summer garden. The plot was huge and together with her mother Rose, an avid green thumb, the two worked side by side producing home grown fruits, vegetables, berries and herbs in every flavour that a tongue could taste. Loretta’s childhood home was forever filled with beautiful, colourful plants.

“We’re keeping our air pure,” Loretta’s mom would continually remind her.

Every summer, Loretta would watch as her parents transformed a large section of their yard into a sea of vegetables. Many hours were spent in the garden with them and that is where her passion for gardening blossomed. As she grew and eventually left home, her passion remained and she carried on the tradition of planting her own garden year after year.

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Maximum Yield Canada | November / December 2009

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

We want to hear from you!

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

ASK erik

Do you have a question for Erik? Forward it to editor@maximumyield.com with the words “Ask Erik” in the subject line, and your answer will be printed in an upcoming edition.

I am just a novice hydroponic hobbyist, but I spend a lot of time and money on equipment to bring the best performance to my growing plants. My modular, air-driven bucket system is okay. I was looking for something with a little better performance. Could you recommend a better system that takes up around the same amount of space?

Thanks Bob Edwards

If you are looking for a hydroponic system with the greatest potential for yield and growth rates, aeroponics is likely the best choice. It sounds like you have had your hands wet with hydroponics for a while, as typically aeroponics does not come recommended for beginners.

In aeroponic systems, a fine mist that has been infused with plant available nutrients and high levels of dissolved oxygen is intermittently sprayed on the roots. Careful monitoring of the nutrient solution and the types of nutrients you apply are critical. There is no growing medium to buffer the nutrients to the roots, lending to accelerated growth rates, but increasing the potential of mishap. Basically, it’s like driving a high performance car at top speeds.You can get to where you want to go fast, but mistakes can be disastrous.

There are a variety of aero systems to choose from. However, for the biggest yields possible in your floor area, consider vertical aeroponic gardening.You can make use of your available vertical height to increase the number of flowering sites you can effectively illuminate in your growing space. A simple way to do this is using a tiered “V” system. The next step is to have a true vertical garden, where planting sites are filled from the floor to the ceiling, encasing the light source(s) 360 degrees around.

The bucket system you describe is relatively forgiving and allows you to use a wide variety of nutrients, additives and beneficial microbial inoculants. In aero, you will want to run your solution a little thinner to prevent clogging of sprayers and to keep a high degree of hygiene in the root zone. An inline filter before the spray manifold is a must, along with regular maintenance and cleaning of sprayers/nozzles.

Cheers, Erik Biksa

Dear Erik, I am experiencing an overnutrition problem in my crop. Is there any other way to save my yield other than flushing the roots? There is very little water where I live, which is why an alternative method would be best.

Doug

Yes, inoculating the root system and growing with beneficial microbes while backing off on the fertilizer feeding rates will help to alleviate this condition.

It is never a good idea to withhold water from thirsty plants, as it will reduce yields. However, in some areas, good quality water is scarce and must be used efficiently.

If applying less water in hot conditions, it’s also a good idea to feed a little bit weaker. Remember that when water is removed from the soil solution by thirsty plants, a lot of nutrients and salts get left behind, increasing the concentration of nutrients and salts around the roots and in the growing medium. If left unchecked, this can lead to a lockout of nutrients, or even wilting in severe cases As long as the solution containing beneficial microbes such as pseudomonas, actinomyces and bacillus can come into direct contact with the roots and surrounding root zone, they can begin to colonize, helping to improve nutrient cycling at the roots by forming a symbiotic relationship with the plant and organic matter in the growing medium.

Microbial inoculants are available as powders; typically with bacterial and fungal inoculants being available in separate formulations, liquid suspensions, bioactive compost teas and even in kits that allow you to brew your own aerobic teas.

Additions of humates via fulvic and humic acid fractions will help to improve conditions in the root zone for balanced nutrient absorption, while providing an important food source for any microbial inoculants applied.

Cheers, Erik Biksa

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

MY

MAX facts

Hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world

Living Art a Breath of Fresh Air

Students Bring Gateway of Hope to Life

The Humber building at the University of Guelph near Toronto, Ontario uses a wall of plants as a living air purifier for the 170,000 square foot building. Developed by biological researchers from the university, the four story biofilter naturally generates fresh air, reducing the need for ventilation, and also for heating and cooling systems. Engineers estimate that up to 3.5 kilowatts per person can be saved during peak seasons.

The wall is self-cleaning; the thick jungle of ferns, ivy and other plants work together to emit microbes that break down harmful airborne contaminants.

Although the initial cost of the installation isn’t cheap ($1,200 per square metre), the long-term savings and intrinsic benefit of the biofilter far outweigh the start-up.

Kwantlen’s School of Horticulture students from Langley, British Columbia gathered under the green roof at the Salvation Army’s new ‘Gateway of Hope’ building as a service to their community. The students participated in all stages of installation of the 260 square metre roof, from preparation to placement of the plant material. The students also planted native species in the adjacent riparian zone to re-establish biodiversity and suppress invasive plants.

The students gained valuable, hands-on industry experience, and were exposed to leading edge green building technology. The green roof will extend the life of the roofing membrane, moderate storm-water runoff, increase the building’s energy efficiency and improve the rooftop view for residents.

(Source: www.inhabitat.com)

Hydroponic Veggies Hitting Local Grocers Many consumers may be seeing signs that read “hydroponic tomatoes” at their local grocers.

Ontario greenhouse vegetable growers grow their tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet peppers hydroponically in their greenhouses. To ensure optimal safety, producers, packers and marketers must receive a food safety third party annual audit.

Many producers are also participating in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.

This means that insects found throughout nature are placed in greenhouses to keep the bad pests out and the good in, minimizing pesticide use.

Consumers should be sure to look for the Foodland Ontario logo, along with the words “greenhouse,”“hothouse” or “hydroponic.” The product should be identified as Canadian or Ontario Product as well on the sticker located on the vegetable or packaging (News Canada).

(Source: www.kwantlen.ca/hort.html)

(Source: www.newscanada.com)

(Source: www.vanaqua.org)

Green Design - Sustainable Living Situated in downtown Vancouver, located inside Stanley Park is Aquaquest, a beautiful addition to the Vancouver Aquarium, conceived as an education center to teach the importance of eco-friendly living. The sustainably-designed complex includes a three metre by 15 metre living wall. Designed by a Vancouverbased landscape architecture firm, the wall is one of the first of its kind in North America. The wall is composed of over 7,000 native plant species, and is complemented by 23 square metres of green roof planters, trees and various groundcovers that help reduce soil erosion and incorporate Vancouver’s first rainwater harvesting and reuse system.

The LEED Gold certified building includes 15,800+ square metres of office space, a gallery and exhibition areas, as well as classrooms and supplementary spaces for the existing facilities.

Student’s SkyFarm Design Feeds Toronto Gordon Graff, a student in the Master of Architecture program at the University of Waterloo, is the great mind behind the vertically integrated SkyFarm set to be situated in downtown Toronto. The proposed building would only require about 1.32 hectares of land for the 58 story building and would have eight million square feet of growing space for crops, bringing in the same amount of produce as a 420 hectare farm. The 712 foot structure would bring in an estimated $23 million of revenue each year, feeding 35,000 residents each year.

Skyfarm’s plants would float on stacked trays of nutrient-rich water, growing hydroponically in a controlled environment. The Skyfarm will be a self-sustaining, low impact system, able to produce methane from its own waste, which could be burned to generate electricity. The Living Machine, a patented biological water-filtration system would recover waste water from sewage and redirect right on over to Skyfarm’s hydroponic system.

(Source: www.inhabitat.com)

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

MAX facts

Hydroponic news, tips and trivia from around the world

The Rooftop Garden Project, Montreal The Rooftop Garden Project based in Quebec makes widespread rooftop gardening a reality in Montreal and around the world. Utilizing soilless technologies, these urban gardens empower residents to produce their own food, green their neighbourhoods and build healthy communities. The gardens combine hydroponics, permaculture and organic gardening principles to develop ecologically sustainable, affordable and light-weight gardens to be used on rooftops, balconies, walls and other small urban spaces. The food is cultivated entirely by volunteers and community members, and goes directly to nourishing seniors and others living with a loss of autonomy.

The project’s main demonstration garden site, the Edible Campus Garden (Jardin du Roulant) is located at McGill University’s campus centre. Other gardens include the most recent UQAM garden; Villeray Collective Rooftop Garden; the Pénates Housing Cooperative garden in Quebec City; ITHQ garden for youth; and the Habitations le Boulevard garden in Montréal Nord, created for the senior citizens in the residence.

(Source: www.rooftopgardens.ca)

Grain and Food Shortage Product of Climate Change?

Researchers are raising fears about the impact of climate change on crops, specifically the consequences on food supply as modern seed companies reduce crop diversity.

A new study states climate change could result in severe shortages of two important grains – corn and soy. Food manufacturers could find it more difficult to source ingredients in the future, as researchers have suggested large-scale seed companies could squeeze out traditional plant breeding.

Although yields increase with temperatures up to 28°C for corn and 30°C for soybeans, there is a sharp decline in yield above these thresholds.

Corporate control of the seed industry and widespread use of a relatively small number of seed varieties could mean that traditionally bred varieties for drought and pest resistance could be lost, with devastating consequences for food supply.

Small-scale farmers need more protection in order to continue farming using traditional plant breeding methods.

(Source: www.foodnavigator.com)

Killer Spices Prove Effective as Eco-Pesticides After a decade of research led by Dr Murray Isman from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, scientists have discovered that common herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, clove and mint show promise as environmentally-friendly alternatives to conventional pesticides.

In organic agriculture, the essential oils contained in the herbs have a broad range of action against bugs; some kill them outright while others repel them.

Spice-based commercial products being used are already showing success in protecting organic strawberry, spinach and tomato crops against destructive aphids and mites, expanding the limited arsenal of organic growers to combat pests.

These killer spices do not require more limited approval from regulatory bodies, meaning they are readily available. An additional advantage is insects are less likely to evolve resistance and are safer for growers than pesticides.

Some downfalls of using the essential oils from herbs are they tend to evaporate quickly and degrade rapidly in sunlight. Also, they tend to be less potent than conventional (Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk) pesticides and thus must be applied in higher concentrations to achieve acceptable levels of control. Researchers are currently working on making these herb-inspired pesticides longerlasting and more potent.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Homegrown Hydroponics Celebrates 25 Years in Business Back in 1984, Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. started out as one of the front runners to pave the way for the hydroponics industry in Canada. Now 25 years later, we are still here and growing strong as one of the industry leaders. Join us this year in celebrating our 25 years as we continue to grow into the future.

As a vertically-integrated business specializing as a distributor, wholesaler, retailer and manufacturer of the nutrient line Dutch Nutrient Formula, we have surely crossed paths at some point over the years and would like to thank you for your business. If we have not, then please look us up on www.hydroponics.com so we can work together over the next 25 years!

MY

PRODUCT spotlight

Ask for these exciting new products at your favourite indoor gardening store.

X-ceL Pro(fessional) X-ceL is one of the oldest products from Bio Nova. Several changes have been made over the years to stay up-to-date with the newest developments in knowledge and bio-techniques.

A lot of insights have changed the last couple of years, as new possibilities to stimulate plants and boost yields became available.

Of course, we at Bio Nova followed these developments closely and are now pleased to introduce a new and very advanced version of our X-ceL. We can say with total conviction that this super booster is a high end, state-of-the-art product, which complies with the latest bio-technical developments.

The properties of this product are so unique, we want everybody to profit from these new and astonishing developments.

This product is now available at your local indoor gardening retail store.

Plug’N’Grow CO2 Sensor Calibration Kit Simple, fast and the most reliable CO2 sensor in the indoor gardening market! This calibration kit is essential for precision. NDIR CO2 sensors lose their calibration easily as time goes by or if submitted to a shock. This is why it’s recommended to regularly calibrate them for precise control without wasting the CO2 offered to the plants!

Why a calibration kit?

A calibration performed outdoors or with another reference is not precise and risks falsifying the sensor’s measurements even more.

The Plug’N’Grow calibration kit includes a 1000 ppm certified gas for precise CO2 concentration for the calibration.

Effective on any controller’s make and model. A kit includes at least 20 calibrations!

For more information, go to your nearest retail store.

Get Serious with Agroneem Plus

Agroneem Plus is a broad spectrum insecticide that controls over 200 insect species, as well as a large number of nematodes and other plant pathogens. It attacks insects at multiple growth stages, and it’s compatible with most fertilizers, fungicides and insecticides. Agroneem Plus is non-toxic to humans, harmless to beneficial insects and biodegradable. Ask for it now at your local grow shop.

Introducing Hydro-Fungicide from Homegrown Hydroponics This root zone therapy is a water-based biological contaminator. It kills 99.5 per cent of bacteria cells. Used weekly as preventative maintenance, Hydro-Fungicide will help to prevent fungus gnats, keep your reservoir sparkling and promote a healthy root zone. When problem areas occur, use daily until area reservoir is treated. For more information on Hydro-Fungicide visit an indoor gardening retail store near you.

A Truly Green Power Plant The Power Plant Professional is a soilless indoor gardening appliance that puts fresh herbs, fruit and flowers at gardeners’ fingertips all year long. This worry-free machine automatically dispenses nutrients via the handy Grow Sponges to practically any plant the user wants to grow; and thanks to its stylish design, it looks great at the same time. It just needs a sunny spot to sit in, or it can be used with the Power Plant Grow Lamp for added versatility. Unit includes the complete Power Plant system, nutrient solution and 12 Grow Sponges. The Power Plant Grow Lamp is available separately, as are replacement Grow Lamp Bulbs and Grow Sponges. All items are available together with the money-saving Power Plant Kit. Look for the Power Plant Professional at your local grow shop today.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

The First Reversible Carbon Filter - PROfilter Most can-type air filters utilize 50 per cent of the carbon available by only filtering through the top section of the carbon filter, leaving the bottom section unused.

PROfilter’s innovative design allows the user to reverse the filter, benefiting from the use of 100 per cent of the carbon available and effectively extending the unit’s life span.

We suggest reversing the filter every six months to ensure a total use of the carbon. To reverse the filter, all the user needs to do is take off the adapter and cap, which are both press-fitted to the filter and reverse it.

Manufactured by Atmosphere, the makers of the Vortex Powerfans, PROfilters are made with the finest TC940 virgin three millimetre grain-sized carbon. PROfilter effectively removes 99.5 per cent of odours. Rated for a continuous, worry-free operation and available in seven different sizes and CFM ratings, PROfilter can be used for commercial or residential applications.

For more information, don’t hesitate to contact your local indoor gardening retailer.

TopLoad from Green Planet Wholesale TopLoad is designed to regulate your desired plant’s height. This very unique formulation will also increase your overall yield and create more dense flowers. A must for gardeners using rotational style gardens.

Height Selective: Add one to two millilitres of TopLoad per one litre of nutrient solution every second feeding for a period of no more than two weeks once desired height has been established. Discontinue use after a maximum of two weeks of use and return to regular nutrient program.

Do not use for more than 14 days. It is recommended to flush your growing medium at least three times if planning to re-use. Derived from potassium sulphate, ammonium nitrate and mono potassium phosphate.

Available in one litre and four litres. For more information on TopLoad visit your nearest indoor gardening retailer.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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PRODUCT spotlight

Ask for these exciting new products at your favourite indoor gardening store.

House & Garden A and B Soil Nutrients Now Available in Canada Never before have nutrients and soil been so well attuned. The unique composition ensures that soil and nutrients are used to their full advantage. This gives the plant optimal strength during the growth and flowering periods.

House & Garden A and B Soil Base Nutrients are composed of liquid main and trace elements and contain no bulking agents like solid fertilizers. A and B Soil Nutrients are composed of the purest high-quality nutrients, including Eddha-Fe (iron). This way, you enable the plant to absorb the nutrients quickly and effectively.

If you want the best for your plants, House & Garden A and B Soil Nutrients are an excellent solution and a great basis for a successful growth. To learn more visit your local grow shop.

Stealth Grow LED: The future of LED Has Just Gotten Brighter Most growers are familiar with the many advantages that LEDs offer but few trust in the power of LED to deliver on those promises.

Stealth Grow LED was created for growers who are accustomed to the high yield and impeccable quality produced by 1000 watt HPS lights. They were not intended solely for the hobby operation but rather to fulfill the needs of more serious, commercial style growers.

Stealth Grow lights deliver unprecedented intensity compared with other LED products. It is lack of intensity that has left growers unsatisfied with results from LED and it is the intensity problem that Stealth Grow has solved!

Stealth Grow truly has a unique product.

Visit your local hydro shop to learn what makes their LEDs so effective. LED may be the future of indoor horticulture and Stealth Grow has every intention of remaining on the cutting edge.

Nutrilife’s H2O2 Now Available

Sure To Grow in Development of the Storm Hail Crouton STG is in late stage development of another revolutionary product to compliment the new Storm series. The Hail Crouton or mini cube, is designed to meet demand from growers who want to use STG in large bucket and net pot systems.

Our STG grow room trials have been very encouraging. Matt the grower has been all over this and believes this product could be a “game changer.” We have samples out to 10 growers who will field test for us and give us their feedback. If they see the same success we are seeing, expect this product to be available soon.

Ask your local retailer to stock the Storm Hail Crouton today.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Adding Nutrilife’s H2O2 is a great way for gardeners to oxygenate the nutrient solution in their reservoirs.

A plant’s health and vigour rely on the roots getting enough oxygen, because the roots of a plant need oxygen to convert carbohydrates into energy. H2O2 adds this important element to nutrient solution, effectively “powering up” preexisting feeding regimens. It can also be used to preserve fresh cut flowers and for cleaning reservoirs, drippers and dripper lines. Ask for Nutrilife’s H2O2 now at an indoor gardening store near you.

DNF Success in a Box has Everything Your Plants Need DNF Success in a Box is everything you need for a successful harvest! All you have to do is add water. Have you ever been unsure on which nutrients would be best to use together? DNF has made it easy by putting everything into one box for an affordable price.

Follow their easy to use feed chart and apply the nutrients in the box. Available now through retail distributors.

PRODUCT spotlight

Ask for these exciting new products at your favourite indoor gardening store.

GlowPanel 45® LED Grow Light Featuring all new electronics the GlowPanel 45® LED grow light is now 30 per cent more energy efficient than previous versions with no loss in light output! The new GlowPanel 45® LED grow light sips a miniscule 28 watts of power yet surpasses the performance of a 250 watt HPS. Suitable for all stages of plant growth. The balanced spectrum of the GlowPanel 45® promotes strong root development, rapid growth, tight internodes and bountiful yields. The GlowPanel 45® grows fruits, flowers, vegetables, herbs and more. The GlowPanel 45® runs cool to the touch and emits virtually no heat.

Simply plug it in and Glow Your Own®. From Sunshine Systems – now available at hydroponic retail stores.

GrowSpot Bloom Booster LED Grow Light The GrowSpot Bloom Booster LED grow light is a supplemental grow light specifically designed to enhance the flower/bloom cycle.

When used with HPS, CFL, metal halide, T5, LEDs or other grow lights, the GrowSpot Bloom Booster provides amazing flower power lighting for your crop. The GrowSpot Bloom Booster screws into a standard light socket and runs cool to the touch so they can be placed very near the plant canopy. Available in 15 watts and 110 or 220 volts. Glow Your Own®. From Sunshine Systems – now available at indoor gardening retail stores.

Microbe Poster and Manual – Qualitative Assessment of Micro-Organisms The Microbe Poster shows what microorganisms look like using a microscope in 32 colour photos - microbes typically found in soil, compost, worm castings and compost tea - bacteria, fungi, protozoa and nematodes. The Microbe Manual helps you evaluate growing materials qualitatively, and distinguish between the “good guys” and the “bad guys”. The 31-page manual has extremely detailed and scientific explanations of each photo on the poster, with labels to help clarify what you see in each photo and under your microscope. Please contact your nearest indoor gardening store and ask if they carry the Microbe Poster and Manual from Nature Technologies.

Stealth Hydro Mistic Clone System Now Available with STG Storm Clipper Clone Puck Stealth Hydro joins a growing number of hydroponics system manufacturers that are now including and recommending STG Storm series inserts as the media of choice for their systems.

“Systems manufacturers don’t have a horse in the race when it comes to the media they recommend; media by and large is not a revenue source for them. Their primary concern is that their customers use the best media available, to achieve the best results possible in their systems. Stealth saw better success with the Storm Clipper clone puck than with the neoprene puck they sold for years. It made their system better and they have generated more sales because of it,” says Cary Senders of Sure To Grow.

The Storm Clipper fits all clone systems and is the only puck that is designed to be taken from the clone system to the next stage of growth. For more information contact an indoor gardening store near you.

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Introducing Massive Bloom Stimulator from Green Planet Wholesale Massive is the world’s best flowering additive. A high performance organically-derived flowering cycle nutrient, enhanced with vitamin B plus all the necessary micro elements including the naturally occurring hormones. To increase flower size and taste, and for faster cell division and healthier, more colourful, larger crop yields.

• our flagship product • formulated to achieve the best flowering results for your plants • no other product for flowering will come close • many times copied but never duplicated Available in one litre, four litres, 10 litres and 24 litres. For more information on Massive visit your local grow shop today.

Field Guides I and II by Dr. Elaine Ingham, compiled by Dr. Carole Ann Rollins These reference books are for truly dedicated growers questing for scientific knowledge and answers about organic growing, the interface between synthetic and organic growing materials and parameters to follow when using compost tea in either system. Field Guide I is a 171-page compilation about current research on Actively Aerated Compost Tea (AACT) in Field Applications. Field Guide II is a 312-page compilation about current research on Actively Aerated Compost Tea (AACT) in Field Applications. Both guides are organized into chapters for easy reference about compost tea: mechanisms of impact, effects on diseases, ingredients, brewing techniques, brewers and applications. Ask your local hydro retailer to carry these indispensable Field Guides today.

Continued on page 64

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

23

Keeping Roots in Tip-Top Condition

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

"Roots age, just as old foliage will senesce on the upper parts of the plant, but there will always be sufficient new root growth to continue to support the plant for as long as required."

Root systems can vary in size and nature between different species.

What do healthy roots look like?

Just what a healthy root system should look like can be a little confusing. Many of us like to see very white, bright, thick roots with fluffy root hairs and a decent volume of roots within the system. Some growers are impressed by very long roots which grow down and out of the base of their containers. However, roots don’t have to be snowy white or very long to be healthy and often roots in certain types of hydroponic systems will have

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a different appearance. Temperature and stage of plant growth can also play a role in root appearance and some root death is part of the natural cycle of many plants that live longer. Tomato plants for example prefer to put large amounts of energy into growing young fruit and during this stage the roots may suffer some limited die back and change in appearance to that of a young vegetative plant. Roots age, just as old foliage will

Root system of a young garlic plant showing clean and healthy young roots.

senesce on the upper parts of the plant, but there will always be sufficient new root growth to continue to support the plant for as long as required. Darker coloured roots – cream, tan or brown - are more common in plants past the seedling stage and under warmer root zone temperatures. Darker root colour doesn’t mean the root system is unhealthy; in fact many plants develop well functioning brown roots as the plant ages. Root thickness is influenced by temperature, with thinner roots seen under warmer growing conditions, although this varies somewhat between species.

One interesting experiment that hydroponic growers or students can carry out is to grow plants like lettuce or tomatoes in a few different types of root environments to see how this influences root appearance in healthy plants. Roots which are continually submerged in a deep solution culture system appear very different to those in a light growing media such as coir or those in aeroponics, despite all systems giving similar yields and growth rates. Roots adapt to the conditions they are grown in to a certain extent and can thrive in a range of environments provided they have sufficient oxygen, moisture and nutrients. In systems where the roots are obtaining all their oxygen requirements from the nutrient solutions, such as dissolved oxygen, they tend to not have the proliferation of quite visible white fluffy root hairs that those grown in aeroponics or a light, very well aerated media do.

Basic Anatomy Young roots in most plants look very similar. A few millimetres back from the root tip, there are usually very fine, delicate root hairs. Further back from the root tip, the lateral roots develop, giving the root system a highly branched appearance. The tip of the root is always covered by a root cap. New cells originate in the root tip, with elongation growth creasing often only a few millimetres behind the tip. For this reason, keeping the root tips healthy and in optimal conditions is essential for root system function and continued development. The root cap consists of short lived cells which contain large starch grains (statoliths) which sink under the influence of gravity to whichever sides of the cells are lowermost. This is thought to be the gravity sensing mechanism that causes roots to grow downwards.

Root systems tend to consist of several different types of roots.

Those that grow downwards strongly and become thickened will develop into tap roots. However, the majority of roots remain thin and only grow downwards weakly or not at all and these are termed fibrous roots. Lateral roots grow out from other roots, usually several centimetres behind the root tip. While adventitious roots are quite different and can grow out from stems and even leaves; these are commonly seen in plants such as tomatoes and peppers.

The root cap cells have a rapid rate of turnover and as the older cells towards the outside of the cap age, they secrete `mucilage.’

The mucilage secretion coats the outside of the root tip with a thick slimy layer to which many of the old root cells stick.

In soil, where roots are free to spread over quite a large area, mucilage is never really a problem and is rapidly broken down by microbes. In hydroponics we sometimes see problems in species such as cucumbers which produce large amounts of root mucilage, increasing the organic loading in low volume systems and, in particular, in water culture systems. Mucilage is rapidly consumed by microbes, but it can also be an organic food source where there are high populations of pathogens in

Dense, healthy roots can form a thick mat at the base of hydroponic container systems.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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Keeping Roots in Tip-Top Condition

Root mats in NFT channels can become thick and dense.

the root zone. While there have been some studies into the effects of mucilage in hydroponic systems, much depends on other factors such as the level of oxygen around the roots, moisture, species, types of microbes present and the amount of mucilage produced.

What we should remember is that despite all the high tech equipment hydroponic growers can take advantage of, we are still running biological systems and there is a delicate balance to be kept between plants, microbes and the environment.

Optimum Root Conditions What do plant roots need to function well and support good plant growth? There are three basic requirements – oxygen, moisture and correct nutrient balance. If these are kept in balance, then most plants won’t succumb to attack by root disease pathogens.

Optimizing the root environment is the best method of keeping roots in tip top condition. Plants have the ability to absorb the oxygen they need for respiration, root function and nutrient uptake from both the air and that dissolved in water. However, the amount of oxygen that is typically dissolved in water or a nutrient solution is very low, only around 13 to 14 ppm at most, so it can

The root mat on the left was grown in an oxygen enriched nutrient flow. The root mat on the right maintained lower levels of dissolved oxygen.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Keeping Roots in Tip-Top Condition impede root development through a lack of energy production. A lack of calcium can cause the root tips to become jelly-like and boron deficiency can cause root splitting and hollow core in crops such as carrots, parsnips and beets.

Boron is also a known synergist in combination with IBA for new root formation on cuttings.

Additives such as silica can strengthen the root zone in many plant species and there is much evidence to suggest that maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial microbes in the root zone can assist root health. Fulvic and humic acids are also beneficial for root function and assist with mineral uptake and chelation of elements, making them more available for plant growth.

cial are benefi mic acids h u it h w d t n a is d ass "Fulvic nction an of for root fu ke and chelation ta p u mineral ." elements

Pathogen Attack Healthy roots should be intact – that is not mushy, breaking apart, rotten, decaying, smelling bad or withering away. Large amounts of broken root pieces flowing back to the reservoirs in NFT and similar systems are a warning sign (unless they are there due to harvesting or removal of mature plants). Other warning signs that things might be falling apart down below can be a little more difficult as these are quite similar to many other problems caused by pests, diseases, mineral deficiencies, physiological problems, viruses and poor environmental control.

However, symptoms such as yellowing or chlorosis (yellowing

NFT spinach plants in healthy condition (left). Those on right have been infected with root pathogens and are only just starting to show signs on the foliage.

be rapidly depleted unless replenished with solution aeration methods. Air contains significantly more oxygen, however, roots sitting in the air risk drying out unless kept moist by some method. In a media system, the pores within the media contain air which is replenished during riving may ch are not th the irrigation and draining cycles, "Plants whi epinasty (bending lour or develop leaf ss of leaf co however, the physical properties of root ), wilting, lo a ds ve ar ha nw w ay m do media determine how much pore flower drop ." d an ge lia fo m zone proble space and, therefore, air is available to the roots. The ideal pore space in a hydroponic media is between 20 to 45 per cent, depending on irrigation frequency and plant type. Light or granular media such as coir fibre, perlite, expanded clay and rockwool are usually very well aerated. Heavier media which holds a lot of moisture such as poor quality peat, compost or heavy soil, and any media which as become very compacted, often doesn’t contain sufficient aeration for maximum root growth.

Prevention of fluctuations in moisture within the root zone is also important for healthy roots; drying and over wetting are major causes of root death and pathogen attack and although many plants can regenerate roots after a period of desiccation, they are often severely weakened.

Nutrients are also vital. In hydroponics we don’t tend to see the type or frequency of mineral disorders in the root grown Signs of a severe root disease outbreak, wilted, stunted foliage calls for an crops, although they may develop. A lack of phosphorus can investigation of the root system.

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rapidly. Plants which are not thriving may develop leaf epinasty (bending downwards), wilting, loss of leaf colour or foliage and flower drop may have a root zone problem; this should certainly be investigated along with any other potential causes.

Large amounts of dead roots can be easily identified if a plant is removed from the hydroponic system – many roots will be disintegrating and whole root system may appear very sparse in advanced cases. Many of us are already fully aware of what ‘damping off ’ looks like on seedlings. The same pathogens such as pythium, rhizoctonia and phytophthora can result in root die back on more mature plants with similar symptoms.

Float or raft systems are great for observing root form and health without disturbing the plant.

between the veins) on the new foliage indicate a problem with iron uptake and although this might be caused by low temperatures or a lack of iron in the nutrient, it is more often than not caused by root death. Once roots begin to die back, or are weakened and not functioning well, iron is one of the first elements that the plant fails to take up and chlorosis develops

Strange Root Happenings Strange root happenings can often bamboozle a new grower and some plants are more prone to these than others. The most common is the little, thick root stubs that are often seen on the lower stems of tomatoes and peppers. These are adventitious roots and while they do sometimes indicate that less than ideal conditions have occurred in the root zone, they can be quite normal on many cultivars and not a cause for major concern. Seedlings of some species such as spinach may give the appearance that the roots are bursting up from the surface of the media instead of growing directly downwards; this to is a sign that conditions in the growing media are not ideal, perhaps over saturated, cold or too compacted.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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Keeping Roots in Tip-Top Condition

Colour, thickness and length of roots are influenced by a number of factors including temperature, oxygen levels and stage of growth.

Strange white waxy or flaky flecks attached to the roots or in the growing media can indicate the presence of root mealy bug – a nasty pest which can be common in house plants, ornamentals and longer term crops. Re-potting and drenching with pesticide is about the only way to control these root sucking critters, although many plants manage to survive infestations for considerable lengths of time.

A proliferation of very short, stunted roots with a small compacted root ball and root tips that don’t appear to want to grow down in the nutrient flow or growing media are a sign of phyto toxicity. This has been seen where phytotoxic plasticizers have inadvertently been used to make channels and growing containers. Luckily this was more common in the very early days of hydroponics and is not an issue for hydroponic gear manufactured now. However, use of plastic containers not originally designed for hydroponics can still cause these phytotoxicity symptoms in the root zone.

A healthy root system is essential for a healthy plant; however, learning to recognize signs of trouble in the nether regions of your plants takes some experience and observation. Keeping a keen eye on root health is worth the time and effort for a healthy hydroponic system.

MY

Healthy hydroponic roots (left); roots infected with pythium (right).

Interested in reading more of Dr. Lynette Morgan's articles? Visit www.maximumyield.com and search our author archive.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

by Erik Biksa

So you want to get bigger yields from your crop? Here are seven grow tips (in no particular order), that when adhered to, will help to ensure the healthiest and most vibrant crops possible in your growing environment.These growing secrets are the culmination of decades of growing experience from the author and countless other dedicated growers spanning the globe over. Follow them closely; they have worked for others and they can work for you.

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1

One: Keep it optimal.

“Hot and dry Technologically-advanced environments cause products are accessible severe stress to plants, to consumers making it so temperatures effortless to supply bright should never go above light to plants indoors 29°C at the tops with HID (High Intensity of the plants.”

Discharge) lighting. These crop lighting systems are available in various wattages for different levels of light output relative to the area needing illumination. Bigger wattage equals more light. However, it’s extremely important to consider the level of heat created by all of the lighting components.

The amount of heat produced by HID lighting systems is tremendous and must be properly managed to maintain optimal temperatures in the growing environment. Hot and dry environments will really stress your plants out, causing them to produce poorly. In the majority of indoor growing situations the plants will yield better and be of higher quality when the temperature does not reach above 29°C at the tops of the plants when the lights are on.

Temperatures above 32°C, in most situations, are a huge contributor to reductions in yield and overall crop quality in indoor gardens. The heat forces work at a high metabolic rate, meaning all the biological processes are accelerated. Couple this with high intensities of light, nutrients and air movement and you are working the plant at its upper limits. What tends to happen is that one factor, for example, CO2 for the leaves or oxygen for the roots, is lacking while other variables are driven at their maximum. This is like driving a high performance car at top speed while the engine is lacking oil; although everything else is working great, the car will grind to a halt and will possibly experience irreversible damage because one important component is lacking. The same goes for your crop. Do what is necessary to keep the optimal temperature, even if it means using less light intensity in the growing environment.

2

Two: You are what you overeat.

Growers have access to some pretty amazing crop feeding technologies. We all get excited about using them, although in our quest to give our plants the best, we can sometimes “kill them with kindness.” It’s important to keep a handle on the overall feeding strengths that we apply to our crops, and also the ratios of the different types of ingredients that are found in various products. Most of the time, the dilution rates on crop product labels are recommended for stand-alone applications, as the manufacturer cannot possibly account for everything and anything else you may be applying to your crops. For example, the levels of base nutrients, additives, biological inoculants, etc. all contribute to the overall feeding strengths, and how the plant will react. Furthermore, the quality of the growing environment itself will affect how suitable a feeding strength for the plants will be.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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Photo by: Dr. Lynnette Morgan

Seven Steps to Bigger Yields

Plant over fertilized, showing salt burn.

Measure Twice, Pour Once: Even when measuring organic nutrients, it’s critical to know exactly the right amount to add to reach the desired nutrient strength in the right phase of growth.

Over-fertilized plants produce poorly, are prone to insects and diseases and usually the taste and smell is less than desirable.

Besides watching your overall feed strengths, and applying nutrients in a “feed, feed, water” regimen on soilless mediums, flushing the growing medium every couple of weeks can help keep nutrients from building-up and causing problems.

3

Growers often discuss feeding strengths in terms of PPM (parts per million), while EC (electrical conductivity) is probably the best unit of measurement, as it is universal from one region to another. PPM is not universal, as different conversion factors are used by different measuring equipment manufacturers (PPMs are actually conversions from EC, the base measurement).

In most growing scenarios, it’s rare for there to be any need to feed over 2.0 EC. Follow a complete feeding program from a reputable manufacturer, as piecing together your own feeding program can be a real hit and miss affair. Even when following a manufacturer’s complete program, it still pays to monitor your feeding strengths using TDS/EC testers. Remember after mixing all of your nutrients into the water, you can always add more fresh water to dilute the nutrient solution to lower strengths if necessary.

It’s always a good idea to check, and double check EC and pH levels if you are unfamiliar with the values created by your nutrient solution when mixing and for the period following.

Three: The plant is boss.

If your plants aren’t ready for the next growing phase or increased feeding strengths, you should wait. Following recommendations is always a good idea, however, to do so blindly is not. Just because a chart says after three weeks that you should “flip” the plants into flower doesn’t mean that you should. Some strains will grow very little once flowering has started, so ask yourself if they will be at the right size for a healthy harvest at maturity.

Conversely, some strains and plant varieties grow leaps and bounds, upwards of +300 per cent, once flowering is initiated.

With these varieties, the wise grower can be sure they are flowering early enough, so that they will not out-grow the space available in the garden.

Determining the right size to flower can take a couple of trials to get right, especially if you are working with a plant variety that you are less familiar with, or perhaps a strain within a plant variety that you have not yet cultivated. Do some research, and ask around. Growers who have experience with a particular strain or variety may be willing to share some insights. Note that hydroponically-grown plants will usually develop at a faster rate than soil grown plants, although overall yields are often similar.

4

Four: Simplify.

In an effort to make ourselves better growers, we sometimes pull the mad scientist cap on a little too far. It’s a great idea to experiment from crop to crop, however, you need to be realistic about how many variables you experiment with to really determine the cause and effect of particular inputs and practices.

With nutrients, for example, if you are not following a complete program, or if you’re using a tiered grower level system, don’t add too many new products at once; especially if they are not on the manufacturer’s crop feed chart. To really see how a particular product performs, you need to run at least one cycle with that being the only variable changed.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Photo by: Dr. Lynnette Morgan

5 Plants at optimal temperature.

Same goes with the environment. If you are running experiments to find the optimal temperature for your strain in flowering, it’s not a good idea to switch from 1000 watt lights to 600 watt lights and turn around and say that one temperature is working better than another.

Set up your grow with a “fool-proof ” system, whether in terms of nutrient programs or an optimal growing environment. From there, consider changing one variable at a time per crop to really “dial-in” your growing environment accurately and precisely.

Otherwise, you can only guess at any changes you see in the plants, for better or worse.

“Although Five: Put some love into it. experimenting from Most of us get into growing crop to crop can be indoors because we have a fun, growers should passion for growing things, or be realistic about how we are especially fond of the many variables to plants that we are cultivating. experiment with.”

If taking care of your plants is not much more than an obligatory chore for you, don’t expect too much back from your plants in return; they will feel the same way about you!

Even growers who start out with a very strong passion can find themselves treating growing as a job after several years. It should never feel like a job. Perhaps it’s time to take a break from growing, or hire a reliable crop-sitter for your garden.You have to be in touch with your plants as often as possible. Plants are honest; they will ask for exactly what they want, and won’t hesitate to tell you what they don’t like. However, if you are not observing or “listening” to these signs because you are in a hurry to get in and out of the garden, you will overlook some very important “suggestions” from your plants, and your yields and crop quality will suffer. Basically, you will never be able to realize the full potential of your garden. After all, you only get out of it what you put into it, and that’s not just reserved to your gardens.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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Seven Steps to Bigger Yields

Photo by: Dr. Lynnette Morgan

6

Growing with HID (High Intensity Discharge) light.

Six: Use a high quality light reflector.

If you are growing with HID (High Intensity Discharge) lighting, use a high quality, engineered lamp reflector to ensure that your garden receives the maximum number of lumens, in an even and consistent spread. There is no sense in having one high-yielding plant directly under the reflector, while the surrounding plants produce poorly due to uneven light distribution.

“To ensure that you Poorly designed lamp reflectors are making the most may look good to the human eye, use of the lights although their performance in you have, look for re-directing light from the lamp reflectors that offer to the garden can be extremely a photometric chart poor. Hot spots can be created in that illustrate their the garden canopy when a reflector is performance.” not re-directing light evenly, for example over an area of three square feet or four square feet. Lesser quality reflectors may provide intense light directly beneath the lamp, although they do not do a good job of spreading the light intensity to reach the plants on the outside of the garden canopy.

There are some tremendous differences in the ability of one reflector over another to re-distribute the light intensity evenly, in a desirable lighting footprint for your garden. To ensure that you are making the most use of the lights you have, look for reflectors that offer a photometric chart that illustrating their performance. Use the right reflector for the right wattage lamp; sometimes mogul extensions may be required when working with lower wattage lamps, and finally, invest in a light meter; it will tell you exactly what intensities the plants are receiving, whether right under the reflector or towards the outside edges of the garden.

7 Juicy Roots, Naturally: These roots have been treated with beneficial fungal and bacterial inoculants; notice how thick they are relative to their age.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Seven: Add some life.

“Plants have Whether you garden evolved in an hydroponically, organically, in environment as diverse soil or soilless mediums, your as the earth itself, so they crop will benefit greatly from have learned to make introductions of bio-active and excellent use of all of the bio-available substances rather building blocks in nature than just providing flat-lined, provided to them.” synthetic NPK nutrients.

Plants have evolved in an environment as diverse as the earth itself, so they have learned to make excellent use of all of the building blocks in nature provided to them. Growers who add another dimension in crop nutrition through the application of bio-active nutrients and supplements are often rewarded with higher yields, noticeably higher crop quality and fewer problems such as insects and diseases.

Freshly brewed aerobic teas are an excellent source of nutrients and beneficial life for plants. If your system is not well suited for root applications of aerobically brewed nutrient teas, you can apply them as foliar sprays with some level of benefit. Also, there are some specialty inoculants available that are specifically

bacteria Bacillus bacteria

Fungi

Trichoderma fungi Pseudomonas bacteria

formulated for hydroponics growers, and contain super strains of bacteria such as Bacillus and Pseudomonas as well as beneficial fungi such as Trichoderma and Mycorrhizae. These are available as liquid concentrates or powdered formulations, and can be added to a variety of cropping programs. Most often they are applied to the roots, and when specially formulated, will not clog-up hydroponics growing systems. They are especially well suited to soil and soilless growing medium applications.

So, there you have it. Seven growing tips, that when followed and adhered to, can offer just about any grower in any growing situation a bigger yield, healthier plants and better crop quality.

Sure there are many more tips and tricks that all stack up to maximum yields, however, these are a great place to start.

Remember that it is never any one tweak or trick that makes your garden successful; it’s the culmination of all the little things you do to make your garden grow better.You will only get out of it what you put into it.

MY Visit maximumyield.com for articles from Erik Biksa dating back 10+ years.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

37

Buying and Applying

Mycorrhizal Fungi

by Donald Lester

There are many species of fungi, bacteria, viruses and protozoa commercially available for the biological control of insects, diseases and weeds. Some products offer mixtures of various organisms. This article will cover one particularly easy-touse type of fungi that helps control soil diseases and makes otherwise unavailable soil nutrients available to plants – this fungi is known as mycorrhizae.

Mycorrhizal fungi are a group of fungi that live on and within plant roots in a symbiotic or mutually beneficial relationship. The fungus attaches itself to the plant root and then grows out into the soil with very fine “roots” or mycelium.

These mycorrhizal root systems increase the absorbing area of plant roots 10 to 1,000 times thus greatly improving the ability of plants to utilize soil resources. In return the fungus receives finished product in the form of carbohydrates, proteins and sugars. Mycorrhizal fungi are able to absorb all of the 15 major macro and micro nutrients required for plant growth. Mycorrhizal fungi release powerful chemicals into the soil that dissolve hard to capture nutrients such as phosphorus. It does this so well that mycorrhizae do not perform well in phosphorus rich soils. This phenomenon is particularly important in plant nutrition and explains why non-mycorrhizal plants require

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Mycorrhizal on roots.

Mycorrhizal fungi close-up.

higher levels of fertility to maintain their health. Moreover, this extended root system is very important for water uptake and storage. In non-irrigated conditions, plants inoculated with mycorrhizae are under far less drought stress compared to untreated plants.

Over 95 per cent of crops not only respond positively to colonization by mycorrhizal fungi, but they may suffer in the absence of mycorrhizae (Kendra Baumgartner, USDA California). Mycorrhizal fungi in nature are lost due to soil disturbances such as mining, construction or erosion; strong acid or chemical treatments; pesticides, excessive heat, drought or flooding; and denial of oxygen or water by asphalt, concrete, soil compaction and roads. In indoor gardens mycorrhizae must be introduced into sterilized soils and maintained because of losses due to the use of strong sterilizers, waterlogged soils low in oxygen and excessive fertilization. Mycorrhizae work well within integrated pest management (IPM) programs and organic programs; are effective in resistance management; break down crop residue thus freeing up valuable nutrients for plants; and are non-burning and non-phytotoxic to plants.

There are two main types of mycorrhizae: ecto and endo.

Endomycorrhizal fungi, also known as AM (arbuscular mycorrhizae): This group of mycorrhizal fungi is important in non-woody plants, including many agricultural crops, grasses and turf. They are sometimes called vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM) due to specialized structures that the fungus creates. Although this type of mycorrhizae invades plant roots it does not harm the plant.

Ectomycorrhizal fungi: This group of mycorrhizal fungi grows between root cells and forms a sheath or mantle around plant roots, but it does not actually invade the plant cells. They are important to many woody perennials, bushes, shrubs and trees.

There is a great potential for the use of mycorrhizal fungi as inoculants especially in the production and protection of high-value greenhouse-grown crops or transplanted vegetable crops such as tomatoes and other bedding plants. If using mycorrhizae as a control rather than preventative it is best to treat infections early. If mycorrhizae are applied too late then the results will be disappointing. Mycorrhizae are not a miracle control, but with proper usage and realistic expectations you can have Mother Nature working for you.

Maximum Yield Canada  |  January / February 2010

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Buying and applying Mycorrhizal Fungi

“Many commercial potting mixes already contain mycorrhizal fungi incorporated into them.”

Below are some general guidelines for using mycorrhizae in various greenhouse and hydroponic environments. As with any product, strict adherence to the label instructions is necessary for optimum performance.

Aeroponics Aeroponic systems are a more highly aerated environment than traditional hydroponics and have proven to be an excellent system for growing mycorrhizae without a physical substrate.

This system allows the grower to actually see the fungi growing on root surfaces. Liquid formulations of mycorrhizae can be added to the nutrient solution and delivered through the misting system directly to the roots. Some filtering of the liquid before application may be required to prevent nozzle fouling.

Transplanting into Containers Apply granules or liquid formulations directly into the planting hole making sure that the root ball has good contact with the mycorrhizae. Some products come in convenient biodegradable teabags or sachets as they are known in Europe that can be dropped into the planting hole making application quick and easy. As the plants grow maintenance applications can be applied as soil drenches. Bulk granular formulations can be placed in a sock or similar material and soaked for several hours to release the organisms and activate them. This liquid can then be used as a soil drench for maintenance applications as the season progresses.

Mix with Growing Media Many commercial potting mixes already contain mycorrhizal fungi incorporated into them. However, bulk granules of mycorrhizae can be mixed in with the soil before transplanting or being applied to the soil surface after transplanting much like a granular fertilizer. Incorporation of mycorrhizal fungi is especially important in sterilized soils to regain a population of beneficial micro-organisms to out-compete pathogens. Bark, calcined clay, expanded clay and perlite provide good aeration.

Peat and vermiculite hold more water and allow air to penetrate better than sand. Mycorrhizae are aerobic, meaning they require oxygen. They can grow in anaerobic or reduced oxygen environments like rice, but their populations are greatly reduced in these environments. So it is best not to waterlog the media for too long.

Bare Root Bare root plants can be dipped into solutions containing mycorrhizal fungi that have been pre-activated. Mycorrhizal fungi are compatible with most common commercial rooting powders and water-absorbent gels. The teabag formulations can be soaked in water just like a regular teabag and the solution used for dipping. Granules can also be soaked in water for a few hours with the water being used as a base for a dipping solution as well.

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Teabag formulations of mycorrhizae can be dropped into a planting hole for quick and easy applications.

“The use of molasses and other sugars as a mycorrhizal food source can stimulate pathogen development.”

Starter Cubes There are basically four kinds of starter cubes: rockwool, oasis cubes, organo-cubes and peat pots. The most favoured types are rockwool, organo-cubes and oasis cubes as they retain water well and also hold enough air so that the medium does not stay too wet.

Preparing the starter cubes varies with the kind of starter cube you are using. Organo-Cubes come ready for use. The oasis and peat pot cubes should be pre-soaked with water that is adjusted to pH 6.0 - 6.5. The cubes need to be saturated and then allowed to drain. The cubes are now ready to use. Rockwool has a high pH and as a result must be treated differently. Rockwool cubes must be pre-soaked with water that is pH adjusted to 5.0.

This low pH acid solution will balance the overall pH to a level that plants require. The cubes should be soaked for about 24 hours and then drained. They are then ready for use.

Once the starter cubes are prepared you can plant the seed and apply mycorrhizal fungi. Gently cover the seed by packing some of the seed cube material from around the hole over the seed.

Sand Culture Mycorrhizae, especially Glomus sp., do very well in sand culture systems through which recycled nutrient solution is passed several times a day (Ojala and Jarrell 1980). Simply inoculate the nutrient reservoir with mycorrhizae according to the label. Be careful in the use of strong compost teas or other green manure materials as food sources for mycorrhizae because the low pH of these materials can adversely affect mycorrhizae growth. Similarly, the use of molasses and other sugars as a mycorrhizal food source can stimulate pathogen development.

Using humic acid as a carbon food source will help the mycorrhizae, and the soil-binding nature of humic acid will help build structure in the sand.

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Sawdust Bags Mycorrhizae can be incorporated into sawdust bags. The bag should be presoaked with nutrient solution 48 hours prior to setting the plants out in the bags.

Transplant as usual with mycorrhizae pre-mixed in the sawdust or with mycorrhizae placed in the immediate vicinity of the root zone.

Seeding Seeds can be put in direct contact with mycorrhizae at planting time. This ensures that the young roots are colonized early on for protection against water mould root rots like Pythium and Phytophthora.

However, be sure that the mycorrhizae are compatible with any fungicides that may be applied with the seed or used as a seed treatment.

Mycorrhizae need carbon as a food source. Humic acids are a concentrated organic matter and are often used to supplement mycorrhizae in soil systems.

Do not use dry dog food or other carbon sources not recommended by the manufacturer. Some growers try to supplement mycorrhizae populations with sugars and other materials that can promote pathogen development and lead to disastrous results.

Follow up applications to the surface of the medium every few months will help

44

High Quality Mycorrhizal Product

Low Quality Mycorrhizal Product

Liquid, granular, or teabag formulation

Refrigerated product

Mixture of ecto and endo types

Single species product

High CFU or spore count

Low CFU or spore count

Long shelf life - two years

Short shelf life

Reputable manufacturer

Questionable source

Active over wide temperature range

Active over narrow temperature range

Organic certification

Not organically certified

“Several species of mycorrhizae may be combined to give longer season control because where one species starts to lose effectiveness the other may extend the protection.” maintain a healthy population of these beneficial fungi. In fact, if the roots have between 40 to 80 per cent coverage with white mycorrhizae fungi then you have a healthy population protecting your plants.

Shopping for Mycorrhizal Fungi There are a lot of mycorrhizal products on the market today. Growers are often wary of new products that suddenly appear on the market as copy-cats of more well known products. The table above shows some features and

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

specifications to look for when buying mycorrhizae products.

First, look for stable formulations.

Over the years the packaging and use of beneficial micro-organisms has become easier to use and more convenient.

Many products now come as powders or liquids. One mycorrhizal product comes in a biodegradable “teabag” of powder and is often referred to as a teabag in the U.S., or a sachet in Europe. This powder contains spores and other fungal structures that need moisture to come out of dormancy. Dry formulations of mycorrhizae have a typical shelf life of 16-18 months although two years is not uncommon. Do not buy products that require refrigeration or special handling.

Refrigerated products may have been allowed to get warm and be reduced in effectiveness long before you receive them. Stable products come in liquid, granular or teabag formulations.

Second, look for combinations of mycorrhizae species in one product.

A mixture will often give protection against more pathogens than a single mycorrhizal species. Also, several species of mycorrhizae may be combined to give longer season control because where one species starts to lose effectiveness the other may extend the protection.

Moreover, products with a mixture of ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae are applicable to a wider range of crops than a product with only one or the other. Keep in mind that beets, broccoli and canola do not respond to mycorrhizae.

Third, look for a guaranteed analysis on the label. These numbers will give you

the number of spores or colony forming units (CFUs) in the product. The higher the number then the more fungal “seeds” you have to inoculate your plant roots.

Fourth, shelf life is important. It does you no good to have a large amount of spores at the time of manufacturing only to have nothing but water to apply when you are ready to use the product. A long shelf life ensures the product is live and active when you need it.

Fifth, do your homework and see how long the product has been on the market. Reputable companies have been selling the product for many years and have a track record.

Companies selling poor performing product will not be in the market for very long.

Sixth, look for products that operate over a wide range of temperatures. Mycorrhizal fungi, like any living organism, slow down or die in extreme temperatures. The temperature range in which the product is effective gives you an indication of how hardy the mycorrhizal strains are. Often manufacturers will mix mycorrhizae that have different points of inactivation due to high or low temperatures, again to extend protection time.

Lastly, make sure the mycorrhizal product is organically certified. This ensures that the product does not contain any harmful human pathogens, genetically modified organisms or synthetically produced ingredients.

Incorporating mycorrhizae into your indoor garden or growing operation is easy, safe and environmentally friendly.

Look for mycorrhizal fungi products in your gardening catalog, local nursery or garden center. By using mycorrhizae you will be promoting a more balanced population of soil micro-organisms and reducing your use of harsh, toxic chemicals. And you will save yourself costly and worrisome disposal problems associated with chemical alternatives. Now that you’ve learned a little about mycorrhizae perhaps you will feel more confident in buying and using mycorrhizal fungi in your indoor garden or protected cropping system.

MY A handy mycorrhizal product table is available on www.maximumyield.com

MY For updated information on humic registration visit maximumyield.com

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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Feed

Circuits Material Selection

Avoid corrosion problems associated with metal. Plastic components are generally cheaper, more flexible and readily available and last longer.

Pipes: Flexible plastic tubing (e.g. polypropylene) is usually appropriate for all situations and reduces the need for junctions.

Its cheapness provides the option of discarding it once it becomes internally contaminated.

Where junctions are required, push fit fittings (barbed) are common (figure one). These are quick and easy to install. At high pressures, however, they are prone to leaks and require securing with clamps.

Rigid plastic pipes, like PVC, can be preferable for the ‘primary’ circuit. However, the white variety is not opaque and inside walls are prone to algal growth. These generally require glued junctions, and although permanent, are resistant to leaks. Note: rigid plastics are relatively brittle and, therefore, inappropriate for high traffic areas. a:

b:

c:

d:

Figure 1: Feed circuits are simple to construct using flexible plastic tubing and push-fit fittings (tees, 180° and elbows).

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

by Andrew Taylor: Chemist of Flairform

“A well designed feed circuit will ensure all roots are fed and flushed, and not interrupted by blockages. Aim to make the feed circuit tidy and uncomplicated.To minimize the risk of leaks and blockages avoid junctions and restrictive feed outlets (e.g. drippers) and always use filters.”

Maximizing Flow Rate

Pipe diameter: Use large diameter pipes. Do not underestimate the degree to which small diameter pipes reduce flow rates, especially as the length of the pipe increases. Small diameter pipes are also more prone to blockages from salt buildup, dirt, algae, plant matter, etc.

Elbows (or tees): These also reduce flow rate (and increase the risk of blockages). In many situations, these can be avoided by using ‘flexible’ instead of ‘rigid’ pipes.

Equilibrating Outlet Flow Rates

To achieve equal flow rates from multiple outlets (often necessary for run-to-waste systems), use the following principles: 1. Use maximum diameter piping for the primary circuit.

2. Pipes joining the primary circuit to the feed outlets must be of equal length and diameter. However, using wider pipe will reduce the need for being consistent with this requirement.

Outlets (drippers, etc) must be of equal type/specification.

Ensure these components are maintained to avoid partial blockages (see following section).

3. If “pressure compensating” drippers are feasible, these will yield a preset flow rate (see “Feed Outlets”).

Feed Outlets (Drippers, Jets, etc.)

Choice of feed outlet is crucial for making sure all roots are adequately fed. The choice will depend upon system type, system volume and flow rate requirement.

1. Bare hose end: Blockages are least likely. This is the preferable

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47

a:

b:

Figure 2a: This pressure compensating dripper delivers exactly four litres per hour provided the delivery pressure is 100-400kPa. Figure 2b: This dripper can be dismantled for cleaning.

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

Feed Circuits

method for NFT, or any system where the outlet flow does not need to be sprayed (dispersed) or tightly regulated. Flow rate is adjustable via an in-line tap.

2. Flood and Drain: Specific valves are required for flood and drain systems.

3. Drippers (typically used for run-to-waste): + “Pressure compensating” drippers deliver a preset flow rate (figure two ‘a’). These are ideal for run-to-waste systems for obtaining a specific percentage run-off. + “Adjustable” drippers permit the flow rate to be adjusted.

However, because these are non pressure compensating, their output will vary with delivery pressure.

NOTE: Drippers are prone to blocking so make sure they can be dismantled for routine cleaning (figure two ‘b’).

d: a: Figure 3: Sprayers are available in many forms. a: Adjustable rate with 360° coverage; b: 'Water-ring' provides multiple outlets; c: Fixed flow rate sprayer with 90° coverage; d: Adjustable rate with 360° coverage and stake.

c:

b:

Feed Circuit Blockages

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

4. Sprayers/Jets: (Figure three) Use these when top-feeding to achieve an even distribution of nutrient over the surface of pots (figure four). However, note they are prone to blockages, and will increase evaporation losses and salt build-up.

The feed circuit, especially restrictive outlets (drippers), can become blocked with salt build-up, dirt, algae, root growth, medium, etc. To minimize this problem: • Employ a filter on inlet to the nutrient pump. Also, in recirculating systems install a filter in the return line (figure five).

• Position plants to avoid roots being drawn into drain outlets.

• Maintain nutrient pH below 6.5 to help prevent precipitation.

• Routinely disinfect the nutrient solution to prevent the buildup of algae/slimes.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

"Routine 'dumping' and 'flushing' will help prevent the build-up of solids (insoluble salts, algae, plant debris)."

b:

c: Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

a:

• Ensure nutrients are fully dissolved.

• Use stakes to secure outlets return above and away from medium line / drain and roots to prevent them from becoming blocked.

• Where drippers or sprayers are used, allocate at least two outlets per plant and inspect and clean regularly.

• Use a regular maintenance schedule. Routine 'dumping' and 'flushing' will help prevent the build-up of solids (insoluble salts, algae, plant debris). Over the long-term, Figure 5: Nutrient Reservoir it is sometimes useful to Placement of filters on the pump and return line (re-circulating perform a chemical flush to systems) will help prevent feed remove insoluble precipitates circuit blockages. (figure six).

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

Figure 4: Problems with top-feeding. a: Top fed nutrient moves mainly downwards causing roots off to the side to be unfed and unflushed. Also, if the medium's density is irregular, the nutrient will tend to 'channel' through zones of lower density. This is most evident with coarse media e.g. expanded clay. b: This problem can be reduced by delivering nutrient at multiple points via multiple outlets and/or sprayers, or by using a finer media e.g. perlite, rockwool, cocofibre (see figure c:).

Figure 6: During post harvest clean-up, an acid wash is effective for removing salt buildup from plumbing.

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

MY You will find all of by Andrew Taylor's articles online at www.maximumyield.com under our author archive

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

49

g n i t n e v Pre o t g n i t c a e R and

Green Algae

by Matt LeBannister

There are many problems gardeners face, beginner and advanced growers alike. Most advanced gardeners have faced the annoyance of algae growing in their reservoirs and rockwool cubes. There are over 6000 species of algae and they range in colour from brown, to green, red, etc. Green algae is the most common algae that will invade indoor-gardens, hydroponic gardens especially. Green algae will rob nutrients from plants and will clog pumps, sprayers and drippers of hydroponic systems.

Many insects and their larvae also feed on green algae and can lead to bigger problems and infestations. Beginners, when faced with the problem of preventing and reacting to algae problems, may feel lost and overwhelmed by the situation.

Prevention, such as cleaning equipment between crop rotations, is the best way to keep a garden safe from this grow room pest. Most types of algae need nutrients, light, and a moist environment. The easiest way to prevent algae from growing is to stop light from entering reservoirs, N.F.T. tunnels, grow cubes and any other surface that is moist and containing nutrients. The best way to block light out of reservoirs is to keep it covered by a lid. If a lid is not available lightproof plastic is a suitable solution. The best lightproof plastic is white on the outside to reflect light away and black on the inside to absorb any light rays that might get through.

This same process can be done to cover hydroponic tables to keep algae from growing on cubes and roots. The simplest way to do this is to stretch the black and white plastic tight across the hydroponic table before placing the rockwool cubes, mesh pots, or whichever growing medium your clones or seedlings will be transplanted into. Once the plastic is stretched over the medium, a small cut can be made so the plant can be transplanted will

minimal damage to the plastic. This way as little light as possible will reach the medium and root zone preventing any algae growth there.

To control the outbreak of green algae use hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This is added to reservoirs in hydroponic systems or added to nutrient solutions as part of a top watering routine.

Hydrogen peroxide will corrode algae to kill them, but this must be used every watering to be effective. When peroxide comes into contact with algae and other undesirables in the water, an oxygen molecule will break off and bond to the algae.

When there are no more algae left to bond to, the extra oxygen molecule will still break down and provide oxygen to the roots. After the oxygen molecule breaks off of the compound hydrogen peroxide (H2O2,) you are left with water (H2O).

One must take care when using hydrogen peroxide, because it is highly corrosive. Wear eye and hand protection when applying to be safe. Hydrogen peroxide can also damage young roots and should not be used on seedlings or clones.

There are many products known as algaecides that are available to combat algae infestations, but they are not recommended. These algaecides are dangerous to plants, because the active ingredients used to combat the algae can also destroy healthy roots and plant tissue. The potential benefits of algaecides are not worth the risks they pose to the healthy plants they are meant to protect.

Green algae infestations are a constant nuisance once they infiltrate growing mediums and hydroponic systems. By taking protective measures against algae gardeners can prevent the problem from ever starting.

MY

For more articles by Matt LeBannister visit maximumyield.com and search our authour archive.

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Maximum Yield Canada  |  January / February 2010

How to Care for

Holiday Plants

by Glory Lennon

after the Festivities

It happens every year. You get a lovely plant for the holidays and it looks really good at first but then you wonder how long until you’ll want to toss it into the compost heap. After all it’s not going to look this good ever again. Even now just a few days later it’s losing its initial lustre. The flowers are drooping and the leaves are wilted. Sooner than you like it’ll be all dried out, on its last legs – or should we say stems?

However, it need not be this way. Holiday plants are like any other kind of plant and can make it through the holidays quite nicely to live long productive lives if we care for them properly and treat them as you would any houseplant. Is it worth the trouble? That depends how enthusiastic you are. Here are a few tips to ensure these pretty plants stay fresh and vibrant long after the Christmas tree is taken down and the ornaments stowed away for another year.

Christmas cactus - Once this sturdy plant finishes blooming it needs nothing more than a spot out of drafts and away from heat vents.

Place it in indirect light and water lightly. To get it to bloom again for the following year place the plant in a cool spot with bright light during the day and darkness at night, much like a poinsettia, and keep the watering to a minimum.

Poinsettia - While many think this holiday classic is not worth the trouble of keeping it around after the blossoms drop, there are a few adventurous souls looking for a challenge during the dreary winter months. Placed in a bright but indirect light the Poinsettia can still look fine if kept moist and pruned back when it becomes too leggy and starts dropping leaves. It can even be planted outdoors in summer under a dappled shade and brought back in before temperatures drop too much. Give it the light and dark required and it should bloom again without a problem.

Rosemary Topiary - Well, here’s a lovely plant for the kitchen if you like the flavour and scent of Rosemary. Useful well after the holidays, the more you trim off the bushier the plant becomes and this one too can be planted outside in warm weather in an herb garden. If allowed it will even produce tiny lavender blue flowers and look even better. Make certain you bring it back in before temperatures get too cool unless you live in zone seven or warmer.

Norfolk Island Pine - Some folks like to use this pretty evergreen as their Christmas tree but it can live as a houseplant afterwards. It will stay small in pots within the house but it can get to 30 metres high if planted outdoors in tropical areas.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Amaryllis

Azalea - Though the prettiest and usually the most hardy of flowering shrubs Azaleas grown for the holiday season may not be well suited to planting outdoors in the coldest zones. But that is not saying you shouldn’t try. If at all possible buy Azaleas labelled hardy for your area. Otherwise plant it outdoors and bring it back in to winter over but don’t expect it to bloom during the holidays. It is likely, if cared for properly, to bloom when it’s supposed to, in spring.

Cyclamen - These plants are hardy to zone seven so can be planted in the garden but where it is colder they can be found for use as houseplants especially during the holidays. They are unusual in that the speckled heart-shaped foliage is as pretty as the slightly fragrant flowers. Simply cut off the flower stems after the blooming time and it’s a pretty little plant much like an African Violet.

Keeping those holiday plants looking nice after the festivities isn’t so hard.

It just takes a bit of care and you already do that with your other houseplants so what’s the big deal? None at all.

MY

Cyclamen

Azalea

English Ivy Topiary - You must have a brown arm not just a thumb if you can manage to kill an English Ivy. This requires a bit of water and can grow in shade so even lack of sun won’t hurt it. Trimmed off stray stems can be easily rooted in water to pot up and give away or to make another topiary.

Florist Mums - These can be lovely but not likely are these hardy enough to plant in your garden to come back as perennial mums do. But you can keep them outdoors for the summer neatly trimmed to encourage bushier growth and to keep it from developing flowers until you want them. Stop trimming it six to eight weeks before you want it to bloom, bring it indoors and it may flower quite nicely just in time for the holidays again.

Amaryllis - Just think spring blooming bulbs like the daffodil and these will be easy to deal with only in reverse time. After the blossoms drop, cut off the stem but keep the foliage in bright, indirect sunlight. This gives the bulb the energy to bloom again the next year. When the leaves dry up cut them off and store the bulb in a cool (10°C is ideal), dry place like a cellar or garage until you are ready for it to start growing.

Water it and place the potted bulb in a sunny spot and you’ll have it blooming for the holidays again within a few weeks.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce - Another very cold hardy evergreen which doubles as a Christmas tree but once the festivities are done it still looks great either in the home or placed out on the patio in a decorative pot. In spring it could be planted directly in the ground but don’t wonder if it stays the same size. It can take 30 years for it to reach two metres.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

53

Do Plants Need Climate Controllers?

Gardeners all have the same goal in mind; to obtain maximum yields in a short time frame. To succeed, it is necessary to understand your plant’s needs and to cultivate them in the ideal environment. This article serves to expand your knowledge on plant’s needs and climate controllers that ease gardener’s tasks.Plants are organisms that operate like a factory. For efficient production, specific processes must be adhered to. The grower must provide the primary elements needed to produce a quality finished product, and do so in the best environment possible.

Comparably, the growth of a plant depends on biochemical procedures such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration. A well balanced process counts on the primary part’s availability and the quality of the environment.

by Isabelle Lemay agr. and Mélissa Léveillé

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

RELATIVE HUMIDITY Affects the plant’s transpiration process, in which water evaporates by the stomata (a stoma [also stomate; plural stomata]: a pore, found on leaves and stem’s epidermis used for gas exchange). The drier the air, the greater the water loss; the higher the relative humidity level, the lesser the plant’s water exudation.

Transpiration is essential for minerals and water absorption from the roots; no absorption without transpiration.

Excessive transpiration (low air humidity) may cause withering (lack of water) and close stomata, photosynthesis is slowed down or stopped.

TEMPERATURE Influences many processes (e.g.: photosynthesis) and growth.

The ideal temperature for photosynthesis depends on many factors such as vegetal species, light intensity and CO2 concentration.

AIR CIRCULATION

Photosynthesis Photosynthesis is a bio-energetic process that occurs in plants which converts carbon dioxide into organic compounds using the energy from sunlight or a light source. As a result plants create carbohydrates, very energetic organic substance, and release oxygen (O2). Photosynthesis happens in the presence of light only.

Cellular respiration Once the carbohydrates are synthesized, this “fuel” must be transformed to supply the plant’s cell with enough energy to function normally; this is called cellular respiration. Opposite to photosynthesis, this reaction does not depend on light; instead it occurs in both the light and dark.

Glucose (C6H12O6) + Oxygen (O2) Carbon dioxide (CO2) + Water (H2O) Growth In addition to being crucial to cellular respiration, carbohydrates are also an essential element for the plants to create fat, oil and other organic molecules. The plant’s growth is a result of the net photosynthesis which goes as such: Net photosynthesis

=

Photosynthesis gains

Cellular respiration loss

Photorespiration* loss

*Photorespiration is a process that happens simultaneously with photosynthesis from which energy and oxygen are used by the plants and transformed into carbon dioxide. To grow, plants also need water, mineral elements absorbed from the roots as well as other resources necessary to photosynthesis.

Primary parts As mentioned previously, identical to a factory, the plant needs raw material to produce. Even if a factory develops and applies the best processes, it will not produce anything without the primary components. Plant’s supplies come mainly through the leaves and roots.

Not only the presence of those elements is important but their concentration and proportion must be considered. Unwanted effects might occur if unbalanced concentration of these elements is present.

Increases CO2 concentration towards leaf area.

Allows better light penetration.

Results in an increase of photosynthesis.

Strong wind may cause withering and stomata closing.

LIGHTING INTENSITY

Essential to photosynthesis.

Stimulates the opening of stomata, which increase transpiration and allows gas exchange necessary to photosynthesis.

Light intensity varies with plant’s species.

MEDIA CONDITIONS

Parameter with many sub-factors: Temperature Mineral element’s concentration (electrical conductivity) pH Air content (required for root’s oxygen absorption) Water availability

Environment Continuing with our example, a good factory manager will ensure a work environment favourable to production. He will closely study the equipment’s disposition, quality of the tools, lighting, climate and much more. In the same way, the gardener will consciously know that the garden’s environment will influence the photosynthesis process and cellular respiration, which have an important impact on his harvests.

Many environmental aspects influence the plant’s growth such as relative humidity, temperature, air movement as well as lighting and the growing media. Each of these factors might have different effects on plants; here are a few of them: Thoroughly understanding environmental effects on plants is not an easy task. Other than the ones discussed, we have to consider some interactions between some effects. This means the improvement of one factor will not necessarily augment the photosynthesis process until other conditions are favourable and complementary as well.

For optimal photosynthesis, we have to perfectly balance lighting, temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentration.

Please note that an augmentation in photosynthesis will also increases the plants other needs like water and nutrients!

A growing interest for indoor gardening Due to the complexity of the elements discussed, many choose indoor gardening to better control their garden’s environment. This way they can aim for faster growth and maximum yields with higher quality.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

55

Do Plants Need Climate Controllers?

might be recommended for beginners. They allow to gradually understand the climate conditions and to equip their garden sparely to avoid spending a large amount of money at once.

The number of specific controllers required will depend on how many aspects of your garden you want to manage.

Remember, a greater number of controllers in a garden equals a higher complexity. Noticeably, some actions might be complimentary while others will be contradictory. For example, using a blowing fan at the same time as a CO2 generator will allow the gas to reach the leaves. On the other end, venting the room with exterior air would evacuate the generated CO2.

For interrelated process, it is recommended to use integrated controllers. These controllers called “intelligent” can be programmed to take in consideration complementary actions or contradictory ones. They assure a better climate management and great energy savings.

The indoor gardening concept comes from greenhouse gardening which has created the term and idea of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). In both cases, the goal is to provide an artificial environment favourable to plants in order to obtain superior results with numerous high quality crops.

Indoor gardening seems to provide a better closed in artificial environment since gardening in greenhouses does not normally allow lighting control and is often not as well isolated as is a room. Remember that optimal results come from a precise control of the environment and the gardener’s close attention.

Why use climate controllers?

It is possible to control our indoor garden’s environmental conditions. However, a manual management of your garden might be difficult and plant’s precise requirements might not be reached. This is why there are climate controllers to automatically regulate your environment. These controllers, like all automatic control systems, work with control loops. They are composed of detection mechanisms (e.g. probe or sensor measuring temperature), a regulator (compares the measurement to the set point and send command signal) and an activator (interprets the command in action, for example, sending an electric current to the output activating equipment).

Different types of controllers There is a wide variety of climate controllers to fulfill many gardening needs. We can classify these controllers in two main categories - specific controllers (one function) and integrated (multiple function) controllers.

Specific controllers manage only one climate correction at a time. Thermostat, hygrostat and CO2 controllers are found in this category like lighting or irrigation timers. Specific controllers

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Controller’s quality Many factors are to be considered when it comes to quality and some are more important than others.

Sensor precision is a major detail to contemplate when purchasing a controller. Sensors can be mechanical, analog or digital.

Mechanical sensors are cheaper but do not provide great precision towards their reading and high range differential; they do not provide the kind of tightly controlled conditions required by plants for optimal growth.

Unfortunately, they are still in wide use by some horticultural controller manufacturers offering low cost products. They are easy to recognize as the setting(s) and knob(s) advance by increments making a distinct “click” noise.

Analog and digital sensors lie on electrical variations that are in direct relation with the measured parameter. When the controller’s programming and the electrical data is well interfaced, the controller will be noticeably precise.

The controller’s quality also depends on its other components. The precision level relies on the electrical technology’s quality used from the manufacturer. Offered functionalities are another factor to consider. For example, some controllers display the measured parameter’s value such as temperature, relative humidity and CO2. Other controllers are equipped with a photocell that detects light and allows different programs for lightness and darkness. It is essential to consider your needs in order to make the right choice when purchasing a controller.

MY For an easily-downloadable table on the environmental aspects that influence plant growth go to maximumyield.com

Hydroponics Fights Hunger

by Charlotte Bradley

Food shortages and food inaccessibility due to economic instability are problems common to countries around the world. Land unsuitable for traditional farming contributes to food shortages, as do urban conditions preventing self-sufficiency.

Hydroponics gardening and farming techniques are being used around the world to help fight hunger.

Hydroponics in Inhospitable Locations In areas of Pakistan, traditional farming methods are expensive and impractical. Water, a precious commodity in the arid landscape, is lost at an alarmingly high rate with traditional methods. Water evaporates into the air, drains through the soil and is taken up by weeds, making farming in the soil unaffordable for farmers. Inability to farm and no money with which to purchase fresh food leaves many in Pakistan hungry.

The government of Pakistan is beginning to see the value of hydroponics farming to help fight hunger. A test project overseen by a Dutch expert in hydroponics recently began in Islamabad. Five acres of land are producing tens of thousands of pounds of tomatoes a week. With such huge results on very little space, the possibility of hydroponics making an impact on the economic situation in Pakistan is real. Because hydroponics farms require infrastructure in the form of water and electricity, before the farms can become a reality, infrastructure around the country will need improvement.

Hydroponics Beats Disease In North Korea, potatoes are a staple crop. Producing tubers, or potatoes from which new potatoes are started, is a lengthy process fraught with failure. Potatoes are susceptible to a wide variety of diseases and producing disease-free starter stock presents a

challenge. To counter effects of potato diseases, a philanthropic organization “World Vision” has partnered with the North Korean government to start hydroponics potato seedling farms.

North Koreans suffer from hunger due to inhospitable growing conditions, lack of free trade, poor weather and poverty. The ability to grow more potatoes will help improve overall health conditions. World Vision is also experimenting with farming methods to grow cucumbers and other produce to help enhance the nutrient-deficient diet of North Koreans.

Hydroponics Helps Even within nations traditionally considered developed, poverty prevents thousands of individuals from consuming fresh produce and gaining necessary nutrients. In Penfield, New York on Freshwise Farms, a hydroponics greenhouse grows tons of produce each year for the local community. The farm is owned by Foodlink, a program devoted to fighting hunger in the region surrounding the farm. Profits from sales go to help fight hunger locally, while produce grown at the farm makes affordable fresh foods available to local residents.

Whether in far-flung desert locations in Asia or temperate climates of North America, hydroponics gardening can contribute to the greater heath of a population. Look for hydroponics to revolutionize agriculture around the world in years to come. MY Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

57

TALKING SHOP

Coastal Grower Supplies Ltd.

From left is Matt, Moto, Derek, Connie and Bill.

AT A GLANCE Company: Coastal Grower Supplies Ltd. Owners: Bill Faulkner and Derek Chevalier Location: 103 - 12824 Anvil Way, Surrey BC Phone: 604-599-1776 Email: growbig@telus.net

There was a time when Bill Faulkner and Derek Chevalier were strangers. They met in 1994 and bonded over a mutual love of gardening. Their friendship developed into a partnership under which they formed Coastal Grower Supplies Ltd. With complementary business styles and an equal desire to be the very best, their retail store in Surrey, B.C. grew from a small, two-man operation to a business thriving in the face of market challenges. This is their story.

Bill The year was 1982. I was walking the express route through the Calgary Stampede and came upon a booth for Bumper Crop, an organic gardening store. On display was a hydroponic system growing produce. I found this concept interesting and talked at length about it with the owners, the Duncan brothers. Having been blessed with the gift of gab, the three of us got along splendidly and they invited me to come by for an interview, a meeting that resulted in a job for me.

Working for Bumper Crop, I took in all the knowledge I could, and with my colleagues’ guidance, started building custom hydroponic gardens. We produced a line of liquid fertilizers and pH adjusters, which are still available today. I was very excited

Motto: “Grow big or go home.”

58

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

From grow tents and hydro systems to controllers and nutrients, Coastal has it all.

about the possibilities of hydroponics. A consultation with a local Italian restaurant had me install attractive herb gardens, which were on display for the customers to enjoy; they loved it. This positive response convinced me to further educate the mainstream market. I connected with a local greenhouse grower and installed hydrogardens for him complete with a feed schedule and lighting.

That same year, I met my wife – Connie. In 1985 we got married and shortly thereafter, had a baby. We moved to North Vancouver, British Columbia and opened up a second Bumper Crop. When our plans didn’t pan out, we uprooted our family and settled in Edmonton, Alberta, my wife’s hometown. The grandparents were happy to have their only grandchild close by and I opened up a Bumper Crop on Whitehead Avenue. This went very well, but the call of the ocean was hypnotic, and too tempting to ignore, and the Alberta winters too fierce to stay.

For the last time we moved back to Vancouver.

my focus, I got hired as a driver for Canadian Hydroponics, manufacturers of garden friendly products in Surrey, B.C. I was quickly promoted to sales and eventually I was managing 25 employees and manufacturing many products for the company.

My boss, Ian Peterson, taught me many things about the industry. I learned effective sales techniques, become efficient in manufacturing and developing new products and discovered the ins and outs of importing and exporting. Ian taught me what

Derek In 1990 I was training to be a mechanic; however, this career path did not offer the lifestyle I was looking for. Shifting

No longer struggling with minimal stock and a limited budget, Coastal Grower Supplies is ready for the majority of requests from customers.

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

59

TALKING SHOP As Bill says, “We don’t sell magic beans, we only sell what works.” Their newly renovated space is stacked to the ceiling with just that - products that work.

Longtime employee Matt Neall brings down a product from the rafters (left); Moto maintains his position where he greets the customers (centre).

to do and what no to do in running a business. The industry was still in its infancy at the time; few products were available on the market and even fewer stores were open to carry them. I worked for them for five years before they closed their doors.

Afterward, the thought of opening my own hydroponic shop crossed my mind. I already had the knowledge, products sourced and customers I could call upon.

Partners During an industry event in 1994, Bill and Derek crossed paths and connected. In 1995 they teamed up and starting talking business, and on March 29, Coastal Grower Supplies Limited opened its doors. Their areas of expertise were complementary.

Bill had the gift of gab and unmatched sales experience and Derek was skilled at sourcing products and coming up with new and innovative ideas.

Bill and Derek continue to listen to their customers and by doing so, have maintained a strong customer base that grows with them.

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

The start-up years were difficult, like any business; what made it easier was having only a handful of stores to compete with.

They had minimal stock and a limited budget. Luckily it didn’t take long for word of their existence to spread. We were finally on our way.

During the peak season, nine employees provided invaluable help, with the steady four available year round: Bill, Derek, Matt Neal and Connie Faulkner (Bill’s wife). It was a team effort, an efficient production line of sales, ordering, assembly, shipping and accounting.

It was a struggle marketing the business, bringing in customers and managing a business on a tight budget, but a few select qualities eased the effort: custom designed gardens, 40 years combined industry knowledge (between Derek and Bill) and unparalleled service. Customers’ trust was gained, and market share followed.

Coastal Grower Supplies has maintained its roots in Surrey as the customers know where to find them. They stay modern – a recent renovation has updated the look and expanded the space - and continually add to the product line-up, carrying only those products that have been field tested. They consider their many years in business and maintaining a solid customer base their greatest success.

“One has to be able to weather the good and bad times.

There have been a lot of ups and downs in this industry, and things are really starting to look up again. We see the future of the industry ever growing, with pesticide-free products, LED lighting and new and innovative products that will all contribute to reducing our carbon footprint and producing strong, healthy plants. From our gardens to yours – grow big or go home!” (Bill Faulkner and Derek Chevalier) MY

4 Chances to Win each issue for the entire year!

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Grow healthy plants in just three easy steps. Clone or seed in SteadyGRO plugs; transplant to SteadyGRO blocks; place on SteadyGRO slabs. These three easy steps with SteadyGRO allow you to grow healthy plants in an inert, sterile and algae free environment. This kit holds 24 plants. Visit www.steadyGRO.com

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DNF Success in a Box is everything you need for a successful harvest! All you have to do is add water. DNF has made it easy by putting everything into one box. Follow the easy-to-use feed chart and apply the nutrients in the box. Visit www.hydroponics.com

Hydro Fuel uses only the finest agricultural and pharmaceutical-grade raw ingredients so there are no impurities. It comes in a convenient twopart grow and bloom formulation, for a perfectly balanced solution every time. Hydro Fuel was specifically designed for fast-growing annuals and can be used in hydroponics, aeroponics and soilless mixes. Visit www.mygreenplanetwholesale.com

Draw closes on February 15, 2010. For complete contest rules, go to maximumyield.com/winbig Prizes may not be exactly as shown.

YOU TELL US Maximum Yield and Homegrown Hydroponics’ Bryan Whyte sit down to discuss nutrient mixes and hydroponic education.

MY: Tell me about the “Mix your Own” nutrients pack. Why leave it in the hands of the grower to create the perfect blend when you manufacture and market your own effective mixes?

Bryan Whyte

THE SIX PACK Homegrown’s mix-your-own nutrient package contains all the necessary items a plant needs, including potassium sulphate, calcium nitrate and trace elements.

62

Our mix your own nutrient pack, or “six-pack” as we have coined it, has been around since Homegrown Hydroponics got started 25 years ago. It contains all of the necessary items a plant would need (calcium nitrate, potassium sulphate, potassium nitrate, mono potassium phosphate, magnesium sulphate and trace elements). Online, and in store we suggest different mixing instructions of the various nutrients for specific vegetables and plants. The six-pack is also beneficial for growers experimenting with aquaponics or new forms of gardening. Due to licensing restrictions, many nutrient brands will not list all of the components of their blend if it is not required. The six-pack is the bare elements, so if someone is cautious

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

to mix their nutrients with fish or other animals for example, then they can be sure to only add the ingredients they deem necessary. For a first time gardener, we would highly suggest not using this method to mix your own nutrients. There are many growers out there, however, that have tried a variety of brands and haven’t quite found the one they are happy with for their specific variety of plants. So, although we firmly believe that we have developed the perfect blend of nutrient with Dutch Nutrient Formula and are confident it performs effectively each time, we open the opportunity for those willing to mix their own.

MY: Your website contains a multitude of education-based information, articles and links. What do you hope to accomplish by keeping the consumer learning and aware?

Although the readers of Maximum Yield are quite aware of the benefits hydroponics and year round indoor gardening offer, the general public is not as educated as we would hope about

hydroponics.com The Homegrown Hydroponics website, hydroponics.com, continues to develop as an extensive source of information, articles and other resources for growers and general public.

hydroponics. Try it yourself: ask your hair dresser, your child’s school teacher or any friends if they have tried hydroponics.

You would be surprised by how many have no idea what you are talking about.

Before we can hope to sell hydroponics products in every home, we first have to teach people what it really is. Fortunately for us, we own one of the number one web domains in the world to do this with www.hydroponics.com. With hydroponics being a cutting edge technology in the agriculture industry, the Internet is one of the first places people will go to begin research. We owe it to ourselves and the industry to provide the public with the basic steps to begin hydroponics. It is our hope that if we continually update our content and provide the best information possible, and suggest products, places to buy and efficient answers for specific questions, people will keep coming back as they grow from a beginner hydroponics gardener to the most advanced grower. One thing they can be confident in is that Homegrown has been around for 25 years and has the resources to teach the benefits of hydroponics.

quite a few e-mails and phone calls from customers, schools and organizations involved with hydroponics that have questions, are interested in doing business together or would generally like to make us aware of something happening in the hydroponics industry.

We stay connected with the global industry via trade shows and from face-toface contact with growers who frequent our 18 stores. Word-of-mouth keeps

us updated on product reviews, new companies and merchandise available, as well as industry events and news.

Finally, if we hear of a new product, we make sure to contact the manufacturer and try it out ourselves to ensure quality.

MY

MY: How does Homegrown Hydroponics plan on staying on the leading edge of technology in the hydroponics industry?

We use the web to do a large portion of our everyday research on what is happening in the industry. We also receive Maximum Yield Canada  |  January / February 2010

63

PRODUCT spotlight

Ask for these exciting new products at your favourite indoor gardening store.

Continued from page 23

House & Garden A and B Coco Nutrients Now Available in Canada

Premium Coconut Coir Alternative CocoNot Now Available

A and B Coco Nutrients require an extremely precise composition of the various minerals. This excellently balanced nutrient has created a substantial group of satisfied commercial gardeners, securing Coco A and B Nutrients an important position in your grow regime.

A and B Coco Base Nutrients are composed of liquid main and trace elements, contain no bulking agents like solid fertilizers and are composed of the purest high-quality nutrients, including EddhaFe (iron). This way, the plant absorbs the nutrients quickly and effectively.

If you want an excellent start for your plants, House & Garden A and B Coco Nutrients are an excellent solution. To learn more visit a hydroponic shop near you.

CocoNot is a natural and organic substitute for coconut coir, peat moss and other soilless mediums and conditioners. CocoNot is made by a special six step process to provide a perfect ratio of grinds and pith, providing the plant with an exact medium structure for optimal root growth and moisture capacity.

CocoNot has the least environmental impact compared to its substitutes.

• no salt means no initial rinsing or salt lock-out • better air-to-water ratio • higher porosity means roots can spread easier and breathe better • porous micro structure • pH buffered to 6.0-6.5, great for nutrient uptake • slightly charged with nutrients N-Mg-Ca CocoNot is now available in a two cubic foot bag and also available in a ready to use pre-filled CocoTek Basket. Visit your indoor gardening retailer to learn more.

TurboKlone™ Introduces the T144 Aeroponic Kloning System The mothership has arrived! Introducing T144 – the newest addition to TurboKlone’s fleet of high performance aeroponic kloners. With TurboKlone you’ll get propagation with an integrated cooling system that keeps temperatures low and helps roots grow super strong. TurboKlone boasts up to a 60 per cent increase in klone sites compared to other systems of similar size. All this without compromising space between sites! Join the revolution and experience how TurboKlone can help you grow better, stronger, and faster than ever before! We’re rooting for you! Available now at hydroponics retail stores.

MY

Do you want to be included in the product spotlight?

Contact the editor at 1-250-279-2677 or email editor@maximumyield.com

64

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

CHECK YOUR growing I.Q.

by Erik Biksa

Q

1. Which of the following are effective in chelating nutrients of absorption in crops? a) EDTA b) DTPA c) EDDHA d) protienates e) fulvic Acid 2. Ultra-tough question: Which amino acid is arguably the most effective chelate?

3. Which of the following are not B vitamins: a) thiamine b) hydrochloride c) cobalamin d) niacin

4. In which of the following product types is it most effective to have the smallest molecule size? a) fulvic acid b) phosphorous c) enzymes d) none of the above 5. In a soil/soilless media it would be best to: a) Flush with a large volume of water or leeching solution over a short duration during the final phase before harvest. b) Flush with smaller volumes of water or leeching solution over a longer duration during the final phase before harvest.

A

6. Based on your choice for the above answer, why?

ANSWERS: November/December 2009 quiz

1) b 2) pH 5.5 3) pH 6.5 4) Every medium requires special consideration to pH depending on it's inherent property of being inert or non-inert. Non-inert media (coir) will interact with the amount of available nutrient pH. Inert media (rockwool) does not interact at all. 5) a 6) b Answers to this quiz will be printed in the March/April 2010 issue of Maximum Yield.

Maximum Yield Canada  |  January / February 2010

65

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

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MAXIMUMdistributors YIELD ALBERTA Double AA Garden Supplies Ltd. Bay 9 2820 Centre Avenue Calgary, AB T2A 7P5 403-273-9188

Fusion 5 Organic Gardens Inc. PO Box 5821, 120B 1 Street, SW High River, AB T1V 1P3 866-652-2594 Hydro-Lite 12249 Fort Road Edmonton, AB T5B 4H7 780-477-7860 Niloc Wholesale Inc. Box 82008 Yellowbird RPO Edmonton, AB T6J 7E6 780-885-4769 Quick Grow 1-1204 Edmonton Trail Road NE Calgary, AB T2E 3K5 877-426-4769 Smart Grow 2456 - 23 Avenue, NE Calgary, AB T2E 8J4 403-236-9999

BN Garden Supply 4493 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC V5R 2N3 604-431-2977 Buckerfields 587 Alberni Highway Parksville, BC V9P 1J9 250-248-3243 California Hydroponics 9509 120th Street Delta, BC V4C 6S3 604-930-0565 Canadian Garden Supply 1730 Highway 3 Castlegar, BC V1N 4W1 250-304-2911 Chilliwack Indoor Garden Centre Ltd. 311 - 44500 South Sumas Road Chilliwack, BC V9R 5M3 604-824-2944 Coastal Growers Supply 103 - 12824 Anvil Way Surrey, BC V3W 8E7 604-599-1778

Twins Greenhouse 13 - 2235 30th Avenue, NE Calgary, AB T2C 7C7 403-273-2881

Cowichan Hydroponic Supplies 4 - 2955 Jacob Road Duncan, BC V9L 6W4 250-746-0244

BRITISH COLUMBIA A+ Gardening Supplies 1450 Venables Street Vancouver, BC V5L 2G5 604-876-4769

Double AA Garden Supplies Ltd. 2908 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC V5N 4C9 604-876-8837

Advanced Garden Supplies 7979 Aspen Road Vernon, BC V1B 3M9 250-545-9545 Advanced Wholesale Superstore 406 - 1952 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6C2 604-945-0174 AJs Pets & Things 3219 - 31st Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 2H2 250-549-3222 A.R.I. Research 120 - 4111 Hastings Street Burnaby, BC V5C 6Y7 604 433 6067 Art Knapp 2855 Wentworth Road Courtenay, BC V9N 6B7 250-334-3024 Aurora Lighting 750 3rd Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3C5 250-564-9888 Backwoods Hydroponic & Garden 10590 Carlson Road Prince George, BC V2K 5E5 250-963-9541 BC Hydroponics 3 - 20092-93A Avenue Langley, BC V1M 3Y4 604-888-5716

Duncan Plants & Ponics 6512 Bell McKinnon Road Duncan, BC V9L 6C1 250-746-5591 Excel Air Systems 200 - 20170 Stewart Crescent Maple Ridge, BC V2X 0T4 604-728-0757 Fat Eddie’s Systems 108 - 18760 96th Avenue Surrey, BC 604-888-2419 Frank’s Magic Crops, Inc. 480 Guelph Line Burlington, ON L7R 3M1 800-668-0980 Garden Effects 200-2288 #5 Road Richmond BC V6X 2T1 604-214-6620 Garden King Supplies 7533 135 Street, Unit 109 Surrey, BC V3W OM8 604-598-1912 Garibaldi Nurseryland & Florist 38917 Progress Way, Squamish Industrial Park Squamish, BC V0N 3G0 604-892-3892 Good Guys Gardening Center 250 McKenzie Avenue, South Williams Lake, BC V2G 1C6 250-392-2069

Better Than Nature Kelowna 725B Evans Court Kelowna, BC V1X 6G4 250-868-8978

Green & Clean Energy Co. Ltd. 2875 Cudlip Road Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R 2W0 250-732-7224

Better Than Nature Penticton 101 - 78 Industrial Avenue, West Penticton, BC V2A 6M2 250-770-8978

Green Earth Garden Supplies Unit 5, 19300, Langley Bypass Langley, BC V3S 6K2 604-532-7106

Better Than Nature Vernon 3506 25th Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 1P4 250-260-4466

GreenStar Plant Products Inc. 9430 198 Street Langley, BC V1M 3C8 604-882-7699

Blue Rose Garden Centre 1300 Fisher Road, RR 2, Cobble Hill, BC VOR 1L2 250-743-7757

Growing Solutions Box 650, 1150 Bowlby Road Errington, BC V0R 1V0 250-248-1101

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

Happy Acres Greens & Backroad Hydroponics Equipment 2058 Cambie-Solsqua Road Sicamous, BC V0E 2V0 250-836-3878 Hygro Gardening Supplies Inc. 1791 Tamarac Street Campbell River, BC V9W 5Y7 250-286-0424 Indoor Jungle 2624 Quadra Street Victoria, BC V8T 4E4 250-388-5611 Interior Gardener’s Supply 221 - 1 McDermid Road, Box 1257 100 Mile House, BC V0K 2E0 250-395-3399 Jon’s Plant Factory 3925 East Hastings Burnaby, BC V5C 2H8 604-294-3000 Just-N-Tyme Greenhouse and Hydroponics Supply 1094 McKenzie Avenue Courteney, BC V9N 3C5 250-703-0476 Kamloops Sunshine Gardens Greenhouse Superstore 5 - 1744 Kelly Douglas Road Kamloops, BC V2C 5S4 877-372-2270 Kootenay Bubble Refinery PO Box 81 Slocan Park, BC V0G 2E0 250-226-7753 Kootenay Grower’s Supply Creston 1134 Highway 21 Creston, BC V0B 1G6 866-468-4988 Kootenay Grower’s Supply Nelson 721-G Front Street Nelson, BC V1L 4B8 888-422-8333 Long Lake Nursery Hydroponic Supply 4900 Island Highway, North Nanaimo, BC 250-758-5012 Mr. Fertilizer 9 Burnside Road, West Victoria, BC V9A 1B2 250-381-4644 Mylo’s 3837 Squilax Anglemont Hwy Scotch Creek BC V0E 1M0 250-955-0525 Natural Choice Garden Centre, The 5500 48th Avenue, SE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1X2 250-832-7151 Nico’s Nurseryland 830 - 28th Street, NE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 2S7 250-804-2004 Northern Lights Greenspace 3 - 2706 45th Avenue Vernon, BC V1T 3N4 250-558-4757 Nutty Zone 5 & 6 - 33201 London Avenue Mission, BC V2V 4P9 604-814-2223 Oasis 12 - 1771 Cooper Road Kelowna, BC V1Y 7T1 250-763-4769 Omega Garden Inc. 1695 Peligren Place Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 2S3 250-752-1301; 888 976 6342 Pacific NW Garden Supply 109 - 20110 Lougheed Highway Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P7

Pacific NW Garden Supply 107 Nicol Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 4T1 250-754-5292

Sundogz Garden Supply & Hydroponics 30 - 1365 Old Alberni Highway Parksville, BC V9P 2B8 250-954-2046

Jardins Notik Gardens 798 Gray Road St-Charles NB E4W 4N9 506-876-9100

Pacific NW Garden Supply 2137 East Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V5L 1V2 604-254-4765

Sunwest Garden Supply 2035 Unit B Louie Drive Westbank, BC V4T 1Y2 250-768-1636

Scott’s Nursery Ltd. 2192 Route 102 Highway Lincoln, NB E3B 8N1 506-458-9208

Pacific NW Garden Supply Unit 14- 104 Silica Street Nelson, BC V1L 4M1 250-354-4767

Trees Company Nursery & Garden Supplies G9 C17 RR1, 7030 Powell Road Winlaw, BC V0G 2J0 250-226-7334

Pacific NW Garden Supply Unit C1 - 1810 Kyle Court Kelowna, BC V1Z 3Z4 250-769-4791

Tridon Hydroponics 12 - 1708 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC V9S 1G9 250-755-1900

Pacific NW Garden Supply 15374-103A Avenue Surrey V3R 9V8 604-588-4769; 800-443-4769

Triple Tree Nursery 20503 Lougheed Highway Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P9 604-465-9313

NOVA SCOTIA Den Haan’s Garden World 12688 Highway 1, Brickton Annapolis County, NS B0S 1M0 902-825-4722

Valley Indoor Geenhouse Supplies 103 - 44195 Yale Road West Chilliwack, BC V2R 4H2 877-702-1169

Greenfield Grow & Brew 69 Wilson Mountain Road Murray Siding, NS B6L 4N7 902-897-6568

Van City Garden Supplies 6542 Victoria Drive Vancouver, BC V5P 3X9 604-322-8558

Plant Manager Gardening 12 Industrial Drive, Richmond County Industrial Park Lennox Passage, Cape Breton, NS B0E 1V0 902-345-2112

Pacific NW Garden Supply 1139B Industrial Road 3 Cranbrook, BC V1C 5E3 250-489-4761 Pacific Rim Indoor Garden & Lighting 170- 12111 Bridgeport Road Richmond, BC V6V 1J4 604-232-4468 PG2 1798 Nicholson Street Prince George, BC V2N 1V6 250-612-4769; 1-888-817-4769 Planting Plus Greenhouse Supplies and Hardware 22394 Dewdney Truck Road Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3J2 604-466-5949 Progressive Growth 111 - 1790 Island Highway Victoria, BC V9B 1H5 250-391-9519 Progressive Growth 41 - 1925 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1 800-405-4769 Quick Grow Kelowna 1945 Kirshner Road Kelowna, BC V1Y 4N7 877-861-4343 Raw World Organics 1 - 1455 West 14th Avenue Vancouver, BC V6H 1R4 604-902-2740 Rocky Mountain Greenhouse Supply 1043 Industrial Road 2 Cranbrook, BC V1C 4C6 250-489-5770 Room 2 Grow 901 Laval Crescent Kamloops, BC V2C 5P4 250-372-3663 S.A. Ecoline Products Ltd. 5671 Auto Road, SE Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4S1 250-833-4769 Skytek Indoor Solutions 833 4th Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3H5 1-800-975-9835 Solar Greenhouse and Hydroponic Supply 4752 Imperial Street Burnaby, BC V5J 1C2 604-438-7244

Vancouver Garden Supply 4894 Fraser Street Vancouver, BC V5V 4H5 604-879-8167 Warehouse Garden Supplies & Hydroponic 109 - 8173 128 Street Surrey, BC V3W 4G1 604-543-3177 West Coast Gardens Equipment and Supplies 113 - 805 Notre Dame Kamloops, BC V2C 5N8 250-851-2992 MANITOBA All Grow Distributors 410 Madison Street Winnipeg, MB R3J 1J1 204-231-1694 Better Than Nature Winnipeg 2B - 2 Donald Street Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K5 204-453-3032 Gro Pro International Hydroponics 101-904 Porthee Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3G 0P4 204-956-1389 Kleen Gro Hydroponics 224 Osborne Street South Winnipeg, MB R3L 1Z3 204-475-7096 My Two Sons 2 - 2055 McPhillips Street Winnipeg, MB R2Y 3C6 204-339-3489 Nature’s Nutrition 1819 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3J 0G4 204-889-2979 Ready Set Grow!

375 Henderson Highway Winnipeg, MB R3C 2H2 204-668-GROW

Spruce Capital Feeds 1694 Quinn Street Prince George, BC V2N 1X3 250-564-6010

NEW BRUNSWICK Atlantic Hydroponics & Greenhouses Inc. 42 Brandon Street Moncton, NB E1C 7E8 506-858-0158

Sun Beam Central 3444 River Road Chemainus, BC V0R 1K4 250-246-1379

Craft N’ Grow 60 Micmac Road Eel Ground, NB E1V 4B1 506-624-9317

21st Century Gardening 20 Bayside Drive St. John, NB E2J 1A2 506-657-9982 Ultimate Hydroponics PO Box 1191 Hampton, NB E5N 8H2 506-639-5948

S&L Worx Hydroponics 135 Main Street, Unit 14 Dartmouth, NS B2X 1R6 902-434-GROW (4769) Steve’s Hydroponic Headquarters 131 Sackville Drive Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2R3 902-865-7764 Sweetleaf Smoke Shop and Hydroponics 3132 Isleville Street Halifax, NS B3K 3Y2 902-454-6646 Woodland Farm Nursery 3544 Highway 1, Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0 902-532-7617 Woodin Nickel Hydroponics 3393 Central West, Highway 4 Pictou County, NS BOK 1H0 902-695-7640 ONTARIO Agrogreen Canada Inc. 1938 Hwy #20, RR#1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 866-650-1136 AKA The Indoor Gardener 207 Exeter Road, Unit D London, ON N6L 1A4 519-652-4224 AKA The Indoor Gardener 3014 Highway 29 Brockville, ON K6V 5T4 613-342-2700 All Grow Hydroponic 391 Marwood Drive, Unit 14 Oshawa, ON 866-606-4723 All Seasons 1000 Dundas Street East Mississauga, ON L4Y 2B8 905-848-2619 Best of Hydroponics 360 Richmond Street London, ON N6A 3C3 519-858-1533 Bluewater Hydroponics 1173 Michener Road, Unit 12 Sarnia, ON N7S 5G5 519-337-7475 BMA Hydroponics 404A Maitland Drive, Unit 2 Belleville, ON K8N 4Z5 613-967-9888

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

71

MAXIMUMdistributors YIELD Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 4373 Steeles Avenue West North York, ON M3N 1V7 416-663-2999

Hydrogarden 1122 Paul Street Cornwall, ON K6H 6H5 613-360-6996

Supply For You 3615 Weston Road, Unit 6 North York, ON M9L 1V8 416-741-8062

Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 1677 Cyrville Road, Meadowbrooke Plaza Gloucester, ON K1B 3L7 613-842-8999

Hydrotech 2436 Kingston Road Toronto, ON M1N 1V2 416-267-4769

Sweet Hydroponic Gardens 776 Bruce Street Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z8 613-433-9600

Brite-Lite Indoor Garden Centre 1659 Victoria Street, North, Unit 6 Kitchener, ON N2B 3E6 888-670-0611

In-Home Gardens 279 Caborne St. Brantford, ON N3T 2H3 519-754-9090

Vantage Hydroponics 1 Adelaide Street North London, ON N6B 3P8 519-451-4769

Indoor Gardens Canada 2952 Thompson Road Smithville, ON L0R 2A0 905-957-6969

Yield of Dreams Hydroponics 559 Steven Court 12 Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z3 877-778-7960

Indoor Harvest 3040 New Street Burlington, ON L7R 1M5 289-337-9169

QUEBEC Aeroplante 66 Rang Prenier Chaloupe Est Notre-Dame-Des-Praires Joliette QC J6E 7Y8 450-752-8883

Canadian Hydrogardens Ltd. 1330 Sandhill Drive Ancaster, ON L9G 4V5 905 648 1801 D&M Gardens 2961 Main Street Blezard Valley, ON P0M 1E0 705-897-3727 Diatomite Canada 1938 Hwy #20, RR#1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 866-650-1136 Envirotex P.O. Box 21069 Paris, ON N3L 4A5 519-442-1237 Garden Depot 605 Justus Drive Kingston,ON Canada K7M 4H5 613-384-8882 Green And Clean 761 Barrydowne Road Sudbury, ON P3A 3T6 800-246-5503 Green Kingdom Hemp 1103 Cassells Street North Bay, ON P1B 4B3 705-494-7169 Green Thumb Hydroponics 3075 Ridgeway Drive, 25 Mississauga, ON L5L 5M6 Grow It All Hydroponics Inc. 165 Geary Avenue, Unit 3B Toronto, ON M6H 2B8 416-588-9595 Grower’s Choice Hydroponics 1621 McEwen Drive 14 Whitby, ON L1N 9A5 905-725-GROW Happy Hydroponics 68 Princess Street Hamilton, ON L8L 3K9 905-545-8434 Home Hydroponics 289 Rutherford Road, South 22 Brampton, ON L6W 3R9 905-874-GROW

J & C Hydroponics 343 Elgin Street, Unit A Cambridge, ON M1R 7H9 519-622-9969 Jungle Hydroponics 2215 Gerrard Street East Toronto, ON M4E 2C8 416-699-0861 Markham Hydroponics 95 Royal Crest Court 18 Markham, ON L3R 9X5 905-305-0698 Nature’s Elements Box 119 500 Mill Street Neustadt, ON N0G 2M0 519-799-5323 Northern Hydroponics 236 Simpson Street Thunder Bay, ON P7C 3H4 807-623-3666 Northern Lights Green Supply 1938 Highway 20 (at 406), RR 1 Fonthill, ON L0S 1E6 905-892-3743 Northern Lights Hydroponics 1185 Tecumsch Road Windsor, ON N8W 1B5 519-254-4015 Ontario Growers Supply 1540 Fanshawe Park Road West London, ON N6H 5L8 519-641-3992 Ontario Hydroponics 103015 Grey Road 18 Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6 519-372-1144

Amazonia Hydroponique 394 Boulvard Arthur-sauve St. Eustache, QC J7R 2J5 450-623-2790 B&S Electrique Inc. 2240 Pitt Street Montreal, QC H4E 4H1 514-931-3817 Benoit Dupuis Extincteurs Inc. 2503 Victoria Street Ste-Julienne, QC J0K 2T0 450-831-4240 Babylone Hydroponics 100 Duluth Avenue Montreal, QC H2W 1H1 514-284-6382 Biofloral 675 Montee, St. Francois Laval, QC H7C 2S8 877-38-HYDRO Boutique Grunge 364 rue Sherbrooke Magog, QC J1X 2S1 819-847-4141 Boutique L’Echologik 829, cote d’Abraham Quebec, QC G1R 1A4 418-648-8288 Boutique L’Echologik 790 St - Jean Quebec, QC G1R 1P9 418-648-2828 Brite Lite Hydroponics 940 Bergar, Laval, QC H7L 4Z8 450-669-3803

Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 26 Meteor Drive Toronto, ON M9W 1A4 416-242-4769

Ozone Environmental Technologies 361 Rowntree Dairy Road Unit 4 Woodridge, ON L4L 8H1 905-264-6618

Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 521 Dunlop Street West Barrie, ON L4N 9W4 705-721-8715

Paradise Gardens Hydroponics 2158 Chiefswood Road Oshweken, ON N0A 1M0 519-445-2275

Concept Hydroponique 1257 Boulevard St Antoine Rte., 158 Est St Jerome, QC J7Z 7M1 450-431-1488

Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 5386 Greenlane Road Beamsville, ON L0R 1B3 905-563-6121

Peterborough Hydroponic Center 347 Pido Road, Unit 32 Peterborough, ON K9J 6X7 705-745-6868

Distribution De la Plante 5498 Hochelaga Suite 910 Montreal, QC H1N 3L7 514-255-1111

Homegrown Hydroponics Inc. 79 Woolwich Street South Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 519-648-2374

Planetary Pride 372 Queen Street East Sault Ste Marie, ON P6A 1Y7 1-888-215-8970

Espace Culture Boutique 17 boul. Ste-Rose Est Laval, QC H7V 3K3 450-622-2710

Hydro Culture Emporium Inc. 150 Robertson Rd Unit 22 Nepean, ON K2H 9S1 613-715-9472

Second Nature Hydroponics 4 - 2133 Royal Windsor Drive Mississauga, ON L5J 1K5 S e c o n d 905-403-4769 NATURE HYDROPONICS

Ferme Florale Inc. (Botanix) 2190 Blvd. Laurier (route 116) St. Bruno de Montarville, QC J3V 4P6 450-653-6383

72

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

California Hydroponic 12300 Rue de la avenir St. Janvier, QC J7J 2K4 450-433-3336

Fernand Corbeil Produits Horticoles Horticultural Products 17 boul. Ste-Rose Est Laval, QC H7L 3K3 450-622-2710 Fleuriculture Hydroponique 3570 Boulevard Thibeau Trois Riviers, QC G8W 2H5 819-374-3666 Fleuriste Savard Inc. 1833 boul. Louis-Frechette Nicolet, QC J3T 1M4 819-293-5933 Fred’s Magic Garden PO Box 65022 Post Office Charlevoix Montreal, QC H3K 0K4 514-933-3753 G & L Electrique Inc. 13760 2 ième Avenue Saint-Georges, Bce, QC G5Y 5N1 418-228-3665 Gardins California 1689 Chemin Gascon Terrebonne, QC J6X 3Z6 450-492-7373 Gerard Bourbeau & Fils Inc. 8285, 1 re Avenue Charlesbourg, QC G1G 5E6 418-623-5401 Hydroculture Guy Dionne 8473 - 19th Avenue Montreal, QC H1Z 4J2 514-722-9496 Hydroculture Guy Dionne 1990 Cyrill-Duquet Local 150 Québec, QC G1N 4K8 418-681-4643 Hydro Expert 12752 Industriel Montreal, QC H1A 3V2 514-624-3091 Hydro Plus 149 avenue Principale A Rouyn Noranda, QC J9X 4E3 819-762-4367 Hydro Rive-sud 4721 Boulvard de la rive sud Levis, QC G6W 1H5 418-835-0082 Hydro Sciences 4800 de la Cote-Vertu Blvd.

Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1J9 514-331-9090 Hydro Times 1533 Boulevard Cure Labelle Laval, QC H7V 2W4 450-688-4848 Hydrobec 2145 Lavoisier Suite 4 Ste-Foy, QC G1N 4B2 418-687-1119 Hydromax Gatineau 3-1695 Atmec (porte 6) Gatineau, QC J8P 7G7 819-663-7470

Hydromax Terrebonne 1674 Chemin Gascon Terrebonne, QC J6X 4H9 450-492-7447

P.P.M. Hydroponique 504 Rue du Parc St. Eustache, QC J7R 5B2 450-491-2444

Hydromax Trois-Rivières 6157 rue Corbeil Trois-Rivières Ouest, QC G8Z 4P8 819-372-0500

Qué-Pousse - Laval 940 Bergar Laval, QC H7L 4Z8 450-667-3809

Hydroponique de l’estrie 2980, ch. Miletta Magog, QC J1X 5R9 819-843-8680

Qué-Pousse - Montreal 2215 Walkley Montreal, QC H4B 2J9 514-489-3803

Hydroponique du Millenaire 5700, rue Martineau, Local 7 Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 8B1 450-253-5260

Qué-Pousse - Mont. Tremblant 462 Montée Kavanagh Mont-Tremblant, QC J8E 2P2 819-429-6145

Hydroponique Plus Inc. 405 - 18 Avenue Lachine, QC H8S 3R1 514-634-3677

Qué-Pousse - Point-Claire 1860D Sources Blvd Pointe-Claire, QC H9R 5B1 514-426-5057

Hydrosphere 2400 rue Canadian, Suite 104 Drummondville, QC J2C 7W3 819-478-9791

Qué-Pousse - Sherbrooke 4394 Bourque Rt. 112 Rock Forest, QC J1N 1S3 819-563-0353

Hydrotek 12300 Rue de l’avenir St. Janvier, QC J7J 2K4

Qué-Pousse - St-Constant 6264 Route 132 Ste-Catherine, QC J0L 1E0 450-635-4881

International Hydroponique 5478 Hochelaga St Montreal, QC H1N 3L7 514-255-2525 La Cuve A Vin 6384 Beaubien est Montreal, QC H1M 3G8 514-354-8020 Les Grands Jardins Lavel 2900, Boul. Cure-Lavelle Chomedey, Laval, QC H7P 5S8 250-729-2687

Qué-Pousse - St-Jerome 709A 14e Avenue, Sud Saint-Antoine, QC J7Z 4B8 450-436-3803 Sherbrooke Hydroponique 3545 King Est, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 5J4 819-829-9299 Ultimate Controllers Inc. 76 rue d’Avila Laval, QC H7M 3Y6

Les Serres Binette Inc 2568 Boul. Mercurre Drummondville, QC J2A 1H2 1-800-231-7195

Un Monde Sans Terre 565 Beausejour Alma, QC G8B 5V3 418-480-3274

MegaWatt Hydroculture 636 Route 364 Morin Heights, QC J0R 1H0 450-226-2515

Val d’Or Hydroculture 1261 3e Avenue Val d’Or, QC J9P 1V4

Méristème Hydroponique 871 Dufferin Granby, QC J2G 9H8 450-991-1514

XXXtractor Inc. 1228 St. Marc Montreal, QC H3H 2E5 514-931-4944

Momentum 11289 London Avenue Montreal, QC H1H 4J3 888-327-4595

SASKATCHEWAN B&B Hydroponics and Indoor Gardening 1404 Cornwall Street Regina, SK S4R 2H7 306-522-4769

Plant-O-Maxx 3169 Blais, Boisbriand, QC, J7H 1H2 514-968-7799

Busy Bee Upholstery Box 811, 134 5th Avenue East Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0 306-648-3659

Pablo Jardinage Drummondville 2080 Joseph St-Cyr Drummondville, QC J2C 8V6 819-475-2525

Waterboy Supply 401 Dewdney Avenue East Regina, SK S4N 4G3 306-757-6242

Pablo Jardinage Intérieur 2 Des Ormeaux Suite 500 Trois-Rivières, QC G8W 1S6 819-693-6000

YUKON, NUNAVUT and NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Porter Creek Indoor Garden Centre 1307 Centennial Street Whitehorse, YT Y1A 3Z1 867-667-2123

Hydromax Laval 295 Boulevard Curé Labelle Laval, QC H7L 2Z9 450-628-8380

Plant-T-Plantes 3439 boulevard Fiset Sorel-Tracy, QC J3P 5J3 450-780-0008

Hydromax Mont-Laurier 388 Rue Hebert Mont-Laurier, QC J9L 2X2 888-609-4476

Point De Vue 880 chemin St-Féréol Les Cèdres, QC J7T 1N3 450-452-2878 / 1-877-510-2991

Hydromax Montreal 9300 Lajeunesse Montreal, QC H2M 1S4 514-381-0111

Pousse Magique 515 rue Lanaudiere Repentigny, QC J6A 7N1 450-582-6662

MY

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Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

73

COMING UP IN March - April 2010

DO YOU know?

1 The inside walls of white PVC plastic pipes (used in feed circuits) are prone to algal growth.

root systems can increase the absorbing area of 2 Mycorrhizal plant roots 10 to 1,000 times.

Unveiled.

Fewer problems.

Heavier harvests.

Pre-veg is the answer according to Erik Biksa. Erik recommends focusing your efforts on the freshly rooted cuttings. Learn how in the next issue of Maximum Yield Canada.

March/April issue available March 1 at indoor gardening retail stores and online at maximumyield.com Plus: Talking Shop – retail special; expert advice; latest news; your letters; little known facts; web exclusives; contests; beneficial microbes, hydroponic roses; edible shoots; and more!

www.maximumyield.com Maximum Yield is available for FREE at selected indoor gardening retail stores across Canada and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available by contacting editor@maximumyield.com or visiting maximumyield.com/subscriptions.php

74

Maximum Yield Canada | January / February 2010

brewed aerobic teas are not suited to all hydroponic 3 Freshly systems. However, they can be applied as a foliar spray with some level of benefit.

Christmas cactus will bloom again provided it is placed in 4 Aa cool spot with bright light during the day, and darkness at night. controllers for indoor gardens are automatic and 5 Climate work with control loops. They are composed of detection mechanisms, a regulator and an activator. are 6,000 species of algae ranging in colour from brown, 6 There to green and even red. ectomycorrhizal fungi grows between root cells and 7 Although forms a sheath around plant roots, it does not actually invade the plant cells. systems consist of several different types of roots, includ8 Root ing those that grow downwards and become thickened, and those that remain thin – termed fibrous roots.

Using a blowing fan at the same time as a CO generator will 9 allow gas to reach the leaves. Venting a room with exterior air 2

will evacuate the generated CO2.

January / February 2010 MAXIMUM YIELD CANADA

CANADA January - February 2010

FREE

ROOTS

KEEP THEM IN TOP CONDITION

?

CLIMATE CONTROLLERS

BIGGER YIELDS

7

Do Plants Need Them?

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Indoor Gardening Expo

Steps to Success!

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2010 Quebec, Canada

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