USA Aug 2011 by Maximum Yield

USA

FREE

Hot W eather Cloning

The secrets to cloning revealed

Plasma Lamp Technology

positive reviews from the industry and independent researchers www.maximumyield.com

2011

Indoor gardenING expo

long beach | california, usa october 22-23

NEW: Follow us on Twitter

indoorgardeningexpo.com

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

FEATURES

CONTENTS August 2011

Digging in the Dirt

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes: Growing for Flavor and Yields

The Root Whisperer

NPK Basics

International Edibles: Indoor Thai Garden

by Lee McCall

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

by Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr.

by Grubbycup

by Matt LeBannister

102

Hot Weather Cloning

118

Think Locally, Act Neighborly

130

Vitamin P: Plasma Lamp Technology

147

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

by Casey Jones Fraser

by OmOrganics

by Philip McIntosh

by Dr. Benjamin Grimes

147 92 DEPARTMENTS 10 12 14 20 22

From the Editor

MAX Facts

78 100 114 128 140

Product Spotlight

158 You Tell Us

Letters to the Editor MaximumYield.com Simon Says

Green Thumb Gardening Beginner’s Corner Growing for Health Avant-Gardening Tips & Tricks

170 173 178 179 180

Talking Shop Max Mart Coming up in September Do You Know? Distributors

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

FROM THE editor

jessica raymond

Aquaponics, Budgets, Cloning, Dirt, Edible Thai garden, Food for thought, Grafting… Explore the ABCs of indoor gardening as this issue’s writers motivate you to discover all the ways to help your garden grow. Nutrition is one of the most popular topics requested by MY readers so this issue instructs on how to manage iron deficiencies and how to know if you’re using the best nutrient mix for your crops. For those fuzzy on the details of NPK, our newest contributor Grubbycup examines fertilizer selection and usage.

If nutrition is the topic most requested by our readers, then lighting is definitely the second. Over the years we have published many articles on lighting to keep you informed of the advancements in technology and efficiency. Long-time MY contributor Philip McIntosh explores the advantages of plasma grow lights—an indoor lighting alternative that is gaining great popularity. Matt LeBannister helps you cultivate a homegrown flavor-infused Thai garden. Once you learn how to grow the basics,

you’ll want to continue to experiment with internationallyinspired crops. That’s just a small sampling of the articles presented in this issue from A to Z. Get ready to discover, examine, explore and experiment in your garden. MY

Jessica Raymond, editor

contributors Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.

Casey Jones Fraser owns Garden

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50

Grubbycup has been an avid indoor gardener for over 20 years. His articles were first published in the United Kingdom, and since then his gardening advice has been published in French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Czechoslovakian and German. He is also considered one of the world’s leading authorities on crochet hydroponics.

Hans Kersbergen is one of the

Philip McIntosh is a science and

Dr. Benjamin Grimes Ph.D (hc) is a

Matt LeBannister developed a

Dr. Mike Nichols is a retired

Michael Bloch is the owner and editor of GreenLivingTips.com, an online resource powered by renewable energy. The site offers a wide variety of earth friendly tips, green guides, advice and environment-related news to help consumers and businesses reduce costs, consumption and environmental impact.

Lee McCall is an alumnus of Johnson &

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.

horticulture enthusiast. He regularly applies his extensive skills in engineering and science by installing his control systems for indoor gardens and greenhouses throughout Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Benjamin is devoted to the research and development of sustainable and alternative agriculture solutions.

editor@maximumyield.com

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Grove Organics, in Northern Kentucky/ Greater Cincinnati. He has a degree in communications and electronic media. He believes that indoor gardeners can achieve the highest quality crops and maximum yields when proper science is applied. Since 1998, Casey has been testing various nutrients and supplements in search of outstanding harvests. owners of BAC or Biological Activated Cocktail. Before joining the team in 2003, Hans had his own hydroponic shop for six years. His “How to Grow” seminars run in conjunction with BAC’s products as examples. After five successful years, BAC is expanding and will include their products in Holland, Spain, Germany, Portugal, UK and, in the future, U.S.A. green thumb as a child, having been born into a family of experienced gardeners. During his career, he has managed a hydroponic retail store and represented leading companies at the Indoor Gardening Expos. Matt has been writing articles for Maximum Yield since 2007. His articles are published around the world. Wales University. His extensive culinary background helped him gain experience in and knowledge of fine dining and food production, which developed into a career in the hydroponics and year-round gardening industry. Lee and his business partner use their Denver-based businesses to educate the public on sustainable gardening and high quality produce.

years of experience growing plants hydroponically. He is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Georgia, Athens and has authored eight books and written articles for magazines that deal with hydroponic issues. He currently has his own consulting company, Grosystems, Inc. Dr. Jones currently lives in Anderson, SC, USA. technology writer with a bachelor’s degree in botany and chemistry and a master’s degree in biological science. During his graduate research he used hydroponic techniques to grow axenic plants. He lives in Colorado Springs, CO. where he teaches mathematics at Challenger Middle School.

university lecturer and an honorary research associate in the College of Sciences at Massey University, New Zealand. He speaks extensively at conferences for international organizations such as the United Nations, and also writes and consults on a range of intensive horticultural topics.

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

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

LETTERS TO the editor

Paul Hadler, store manager for Garden Supply Guys.

Sustainable Support Garden Supply Guys’ new store recently opened its doors in April 2011. We proudly offer Maximum Yield in our store, and our customers love it. We usually run out of your magazine within the first week of getting it in. I especially enjoyed The Great Organic Hydroponic Debate article in the June issue. We wanted to send you a picture of our store with Maximum Yield in it. In the photo is our store manager Paul Hadler. Thanks, Robert Tait, web administrator Garden Supply Guys (www.GardenSupplyGuys.com)

Loving Out Loud I love your mag. Jose Garza Love your magazine and online info. Sharon Calabrese I would love a subscription to your wonderful magazine. I get it whenever I can but the store runs out fast and I miss issues. I love how up-to-date it keeps me with new products. Cody Eurich Maximum Yield has compiled one of the most extensive sources for technical information I have seen. Bob Wheeler, products manager Aquatic Habitats Inc. Apopka, FL I love your magazine. I read it all the time. Ricardo Your article on light sources, amount of time and heat was very informative. Julie Brothers Westchester County, NY

Thanks. We love you too! Keeping growing and keep reading Maximum Yield. We appreciate all your comments. 12

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Ask and You Shall Receive I am looking for information on hydroponically-grown fodder (animal feed). We have horses and chickens and both can be fed with this fodder. The systems being sold are very expensive but look really simple; although in building my own system I found it to be more complicated than I first thought. Barley is used primarily but one can include flax, wheat and other seeds. The growing cycle is only six to seven days from seed to harvest and one pound of seed produces seven pounds of feed. This makes the system cost-effective and could cut feed cost in half; not to mention the lush green quality of the feed. Some of the feed we buy (dry grass and hay) can last up to one year and fresh is better! I can’t find any hydroponic parts’ manufacturers catering to this market and the information is hard to come by. Other horse and cattle owners I’ve talked to are very interested in this information; the cost of feed is going up with gas prices, and the higher it goes the better this system looks and there’s no question it’s better for the horses. Any input would be appreciated. Thank you, Sonny Hinkle

Sonny, you’ll be thrilled to learn that the world-renowned hydroponic consultant and book author (not to mention esteemed Maximum Yield contributor) Dr. Lynette Morgan agreed this topic would be worthy for the pages of Maximum Yield and of interest to our readers. Look for her article Fantasic Fresh Fodder in the September issue of Maximum Yield USA, available online and in hydroponic retail shops around the world. We want to hear from you! Write us at: Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339 Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 or e-mail us at: editor@maximumyield.com

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Coming up on the Web Got Questions? Get Answers. Maximum Yield’s resident expert Simon Hart is available and ready to answer your modern gardening questions. E-mail simon@maximumyield.com or fill out the Simon Says question form on maximumyield.com

Upcoming Events

See, Learn, Discover and Grow at the 2011 Long Beach Indoor Gardening Expo The Long Beach Convention Center and Maximum Yield are proud to be hosting the 2nd Annual Indoor Gardening Expo, October 23, 2011. See live demonstrations, learn at our information sessions, discover new techniques and delight in the uniquely diversified products that will help your garden grow. Visit www.indoorgardenexpo.com for full event details.

Latest News Which city in Europe was deemed the green capital? Which restaurant in New York City features a fresh rooftop farm? What type of fish is perfect for aquaponics? Learn the answers to these questions and more on maximumyield.com under Latest News. Connect to MaximumYield.com instantly from your Smartphone with our Quick Response (QR) Code, found on the cover of every issue of Maximum Yield. Now you can access the best products, the most in-depth articles and information, and the latest news at high speeds. Simply download the QR Code Reader software compatible with your Smartphone, scan the QR Code and your phone’s browser will automatically launch, redirecting you to www.maximumyield.com. It’s that simple!

Connect with Maximum Yield

www.maximumyield.com www.facebook.com/MaximumYield www.indoorgardeningexpo.com twitter.com/max_yield

Tell us what you think at editor@maximumyield.com. We’d love to hear from you. 14

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

VOLUME 12 – NUMBER 5 August 2011 Maximum Yield is published monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. If undeliverable please return to the address above. The views expressed by columnists are a personal opinion and do not necessarily reflect those of Maximum Yield or the Editor. Publication Agreement Number 40739092 Printed In Canada.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson 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 Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Christina Indseth - christina@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com Tina Skujins - tina@maximumyield.com Mike Linden - mike@maximumyield.com Jennifer Duong - jennifer@maximumyield.com Alice Joe - alice@maximumyield.com ACCOUNTING - Tracy Greeno accounting@maximumyield.com USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS General Hydroponics Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply R&M Supply Tradewinds CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. MegaWatt Quality Wholesale UK DISTRIBUTION Growth Technology Future Harvest Development Europe Nutriculture UK AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION House N Garden Futchatec Growth Technology Hydraspher

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

SIMON says

Hey, I was wondering if organics, such as guanos, can be used for hydroponics, and is guano enough for a full schedule for the veg and bloom stages?

The awkward partnership of organics and hydroponics intersects once again! There is a lot of debate about using organics in hydroponics. While it is feasible in theory, it is very difficult to make it function in the real world. In the successes I have seen myself, they are generally based on compost-amended soilless mixes; if they are water systems, the crops are low nutrient requiring plants such as lettuce and some herbs. Most of the problems associated with organics and hydroponics are related to the level of soluble nutrients. Nitrogen and calcium availability would be two of the biggest problems. Organic products, unless digested through enzymatic action, fermentation or chemical extraction are generally only partially soluble, if at all. Powdered guanos would be mostly insoluble, although they could be suspended in solution if agitated. However, just because something is suspended doesn’t mean that plants will be able to access it. In most cases the best way to digest organic material is through microbial action. In hydroponics systems there would be very low levels of microbial action and it’s unlikely that you could get enough activity to break down the guanos into usable forms.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

There are a range of guanos available in the market. Most are from bats and birds and they all have various nutritional ranges due to the variety of food sources consumed by the animals. Guanos can be a great way to get a high power organic option into your garden and nutritionally you are right that guanos could be a very strong nutrient foundation. Outdoors, in true soils, where guanos can break down over a season in the presence of vast amounts and diversity of microbes, it’s possible they could provide a stand alone nutrient for your garden. Indoors, guanos will require a bit more preparation in order to give the results you want. If you are keen to use guanos, the best idea would be to choose a soilless mix with a high level of biological activity. Add as many microbes as possible with inputs like worm castings, weekly doses of an aerated compost tea and microbial stimulants like kelp and humic acid. Mix the guanos into your potting mix prior to planting and let the microbes feed themselves and in turn your medium and plants. The organic material would break down over a few months and provide a natural slow release nutrient supply for your plants. To fill the gaps and ensure the best

crop possible I would consider having a fermented liquid organic ready, just in case the release curve doesn’t keep up with your plants. Keep thinking organically and as always I recommend experimenting; every situation is different and you won’t know unless you try. MY Do you have a question for Simon? Send it to simon@maximumyield.com with the words “Simon Says” in the subject line, and your answer will be printed in an upcoming edition.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Safe Salad Mixes Outbreaks of foodborne illness have been associated with bagged salad greens. Mechanical cutting of lettuce leaves into large pieces or shredding of leaves into narrow strips, like those in taco filling, breaks lettuce cells. The broken cells exude carbohydrates, which the microbe can use as a source of energy. But injured cells can also leak natural compounds such as antimicrobials that are problematic for the pathogen. A study with romaine lettuce showed that E. coli, when exposed in lab tests to the contents of broken lettuce leaf cells, can adapt quickly. Using an approach known as microarray-based whole genome transcriptional profiling, researchers determined that the pathogen uses its genetic arsenal to protect itself against not only the antimicrobial compounds, but also against oxidative stress, osmotic stress, damage to its DNA and other threats to its ability to survive and multiply. (Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

Canada’s First School-based Market Garden Students of Bendale Business and Technical Institute in Scarborough, Ontario have been growing red and yellow chard and other crops for their landscaping and gardening class in what is believed to be Canada’s first school-based market garden. Culinary art students transform the crops into meals for the teacher’s cafeteria and the student cafeteria. Excess produce is also bundled and sold at a community farm market. Almost 1,800 pounds of food has been harvested thus far. (Source: www.thestar.com)

That Roof is Alive! New York State’s 36,000 farms can supply perhaps 40 per cent of local food needs, so unless all New York residents become victory gardeners overnight, we will continue to depend on food imported from thousands of miles away. Building owners motivated to lower HVAC costs, speed building approvals and lower construction costs are turning to green roofs. Bob Fireman, president of Sky Vegetables, has a vision to have rooftop greenhouses raising vegetables 12 months of the year in communities from the Bronx to Boston, from the Bay Area to Detroit. Fifty workers would build the hydroponic farm—20 full-time staffers and 10 part-timers would manage it once it is operational. Fireman estimates the one acre garden can produce 300 to 400 tons of produce a year. Fireman wants to supply local schools and hospitals with “greens and beans that you can’t get fresh 12 months of the year.” The balance will go to food banks and farmers markets. (Source: www.huffingtonpost.com)

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

NYC Restaurant Features Hydroponic Rooftop Farm Chef John Mooney and his partner Mick O’Sullivan, owners of the New York City West Village restaurant Bell, Book and Candle, grow 70 varieties of herbs, vegetables and fruits hydroponically on their rooftop. They grow nearly two-thirds the vegetables for the restaurant using 60 vertical tower hydro systems. (Source: www.huffingtonpost.com)

Stockholm, Sweden: The European Green Capital

Going Green - China Show Us How More than 5,000 visitors attended the Eco Design Fair in Shanghai this past spring. Visitors were presented with a glance of Shanghai’s most creative products and designs in the realm of environmentally-friendly consumer goods available in China. The day began with a critical mass bike ride, organized by GoodtoShanghai, with over 300 bikers riding from Xu Jia Hui Park to the Eco Design Fair. Chinese companies took center stage at the spring 2011 event with a variety of environmentally-minded products. Seminars focusing on how to create sustainable businesses, lessons in urban farming and even hydroponics, were all available for the public to learn about simple ways to help the environment.

Stockholm, Sweden has been deemed the green capital of Europe by the European Commission, receiving the award of the same name in 2010. This award promotes sustainable mobility and land use, modern waste management, eco-innovation and other green technologies. By 2014, the city will become home to its first vertical farm, an immense urban greenhouse in the form of a geodesic dome designed by the Plantagon Company. The glass sphere frees up the land mass needed for raising crops by maximizing square footage with its spiraling levels. Greenhouse plants are grown in a nutrient rich solution using hydroponics. In addition to its vertical farm solution, Stockholm is redefining urban planning to maximize an eco-friendly balance of life to address the crucial areas of population growth, water conservation, renewable energy and rising food costs. The city has also begun taking steps toward adding new sources of renewable energy to power their commercial needs. (Source: www.theurbn.com)

(Sources: www.ecofriendlypack.com, www.theurbn.com)

Rabbit Battery Farms Could Return to UK The intensive rabbit battery farms, which would be the first for rabbits in the country in 15 years, have been proposed at sites from Nottinghamshire to Cornwall. Previous farms closed down, undercut by foreign rabbit farms with lower welfare standards. What has changed is the ability to produce lower cost feed via a hydroponic pond in which barley grass would be grown, providing 60 per cent of the rabbits’ diet. (Source: www.guardian.co.uk)

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Vertical Garden to Tower Over Chelsea Flower Show A 30 foot tall food garden (skyfarm) was constructed for the 2011 Chelsea Flower Show in London. One wall of the steel-frame structure is entirely plants, the other entirely solar photovoltaic panels. The panels power the water pumps that push water from a borehole round the hydroponic growing system. Inside the tower, along with the stairs are greenhouse areas for propagation, and a compost chute. Everything in the garden is edible, even the trees: the vertically trimmed lime trees have flowers that can make an herbal tea, while the mulberry trees give a crunchy berry. The garden illustrates the hundreds of edible plants in the world, including many unusual varieties like Stevia rebaudiana, a sweet-tasting sugar substitute. (Source: www.guardian.co.uk)

Future Green City Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates BrightFarm Systems and Kiss + Cathcart Architects are currently developing the first prototype GreenMarket system (hydroponic food production facility) to be built at Masdar City in Abu Dhabi. The GreenMarket utilizes BrightFarm Systems pioneering rooftop and facade mounted, sustainable greenhouse designs to integrate hydroponic food production into civic buildings. Abu Dhabi has certainly put itself on the map for representing the future in eco-city development. Masdar City is a high-density and pedestrian-friendly development where current and future renewable energy and clean technologies are showcased, marketed, researched, developed, tested and implemented. (Source: www.theurbn.com)

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Solace Through Hydroponic Gardening The Fountain House, a working community for people with mental illness in New York City, has developed a program for its members to grow their own food using a unique hydroponic growing system. Lee Mandell of Boswyck Farms set up the hydroponic garden and oversees the operation, which has proved both therapeutic and healthy for residents. (Source: www.huffingtonpost.com)

The Perfect Aquaponic Fish Aquaponics projects are cropping up all over the place, from Utah and Seattle in the United States, to Dalston, London and Annanside, Scotland. These projects utilize many different plants and fish although in recent times there seems to be a leader emerging from the pack of contenders. This fish is the tilapia.

Nuts About Hydro The Greenearth Project in Savusavu, Fiji has constructed an ingenious hydroponic growing system of bamboo and coconuts. The system uses coconut husks (coir) as a growing media, and worm castings and humus tea as fertilizer. (Source: www.fijilettuce.com)

Tilapia Facts: • A cichlid fish found widely in freshwater around the world • The third most important species in fish farming behind salmonids and carp • They grow quickly, breed easily and are exceptionally hardy • Referred to as “aquatic chicken” • The US now consumes a whopping 475 million pounds of tilapia in 2010, four times the amount 10 years ago It is certainly a worthwhile fish for a wide variety of aquaponics projects, from large scale agriculture to small scale home-based systems; whether tilapia and chips will ever replace cod and chips, however, remains questionable. (Source: http://hydroponicsguide.co.uk) MY

Clean 15 Just as Toxic as Dirty Dozen The cleanest produce from a consumer perspective—the Clean 15—are at least as toxic as the Dirty Dozen. The cleanest crop from a producer’s standpoint is actually spinach, with only 0.4 pounds of pesticide used per acre in California. Spinach is fifth on the Dirty Dozen list. Conversely, the crops with most intensive pesticide use are sweet potatoes and mushrooms, with 110.3 pounds per acre and 106.1 pounds per acre, respectively. The average pesticide use intensity for the lists is quite similar: 26.2 pounds per acre for the Clean 15 and 29.8 pounds per acre for the Dirty Dozen. (Source: www.treehugger.com) Photo by Greg Hume

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Ask for them at your local indoor gardening store.

YOUR GUIDE TO THIS MONTH’S HOTTEST ITEMS

Compost Gets a Makeover With Sunleaves Introducing the AT120 Light Series From Apache Tech Apache Tech has developed a light that meets all your needs. The AT120 series of lights uses the most efficient LED chips on the market that produce 120 lumens per watt. The AT120 array produces more useable PAR than most 600 watt HID lamps, while consuming approximately 80 per cent less energy. The wavelengths were scientifically chosen to optimize plant growth and production. The Apache Tech LED chips are rated to work for at least 50,000 hours (>five years). Visit your local indoor gardening shop for more information.

Kitchen waste gets a shiny, eye-catching receptacle with the Sunleaves Stainless Steel Compost Can. The can stands 11 inches tall with a seven inch diameter, and has a 1.16 gallon capacity. The exterior also has an attractive satin finish. The lid includes a double layer replaceable carbon filter (one round filter for the top of the lid and one square filter for the bottom of the lid) to keep odors at bay. Contact your local indoor/outdoor gardening shop for more information on the Sunleaves Stainless Steel Compost Can.

Sola Cool Solar Powered Cooling Kit for the Xtrasun 6” Let your reflector shoulder some of the workload with the Sola Cool Solar Powered Fan. The easy-to-install Sola Cool kit works with Hydrofarm’s Xtrasun six reflector (XT6AC), and consists of a solar panel array (56 mini solar panels) and a silent operating fan. The unit easily mounts inside the reflector using four magnetic nuts, which positions the fan in the center of one of the flanges. When your bulb turns on, the fan springs to life and propels a cooling breeze through your reflector. For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retailer near you.

HypoTek Digital Ballasts Designed by growers for growers, HypoTek Digital Ballasts are a Northern California favorite. Heat-dispersing fins cover the entire outside of these ballasts helping to eliminate trapped heat. Rubber feet help prevent vibration, reducing noise. All models run both MH and HPS lamps, are compatible with ‘Type S’ reflectors and include a built-in surge protector. The 1,000 and 600 watt models have internal cooling fans and are resin-coated to prevent RF interference. The 1,000, 600 and 400 watt models are dimmable, featuring the Super Bright option for 10 per cent more lumens. For more information talk to your local hydroponics retailer.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Xtrasun 49” Parabolic HV Reflector The Xtrasun 49 inch Parabolic HV Reflector delivers all the light down to the plants, with wide and even light distribution. They are lightweight and come with easy-to-assemble slide panels, no tools are needed. These units feature a built-in socket and 15 foot cord set. The 49 inch Xtrasun will accept sodium or halide bulbs and the bulbs can be used horizontally or vertically for maximum light delivery. For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retailer near you.

Bloom FX Bud Enhancer Bloom FX Bud Enhancer is a bloom booster designed to give you larger, fuller and denser flowers. It stimulates explosive growth and promotes heavier blooms. A little goes a long way and it’s only needed from weeks nine through 11 of a common 12 week growing cycle. It is one of the most affordable bloom boosters on the market. The more you buy, the more you save and it comes in sizes up to 55 gallons. Bloom FX can be used in soil, coco and hydroponic systems. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information.

Optic Foliar Mega Watts Optic Foliar Mega Watts is a highly concentrated revolutionary lightaccelerating spray. Mega Watts is able to trigger photosynthetic cycles and exponentially increase the amount of light energy being used and processed by the plant, directly resulting in increased growth rates. Unlike traditional sprays, Mega Watts is highly concentrated and can be sprayed on plants even with the lights on and without the need to adjust the spray’s pH. Mega Watts will not cause any burning to the leaves of the plant. Visit your favorite indoor gardening shop for more information. 32

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

All Liquid Kelp Products are not the Same – Enter Kelp+

Portable Air Conditioner New From Hydrofarm

Kelp+ is a liquid product formulated differently with unique ingredients for enhanced plant performance. It is derived from Ascophyllum Nodosum sea kelp, harvested sustainably from the pristine waters of Northwest Iceland. Most liquid kelp products are formulated using harsh chemical solvents, but Kelp+ is extracted using physical means via a unique rhizobond infusion technology. No heat is required to extract the goodies contained inside. In addition, Kelp+ is fortified with sea minerals and the biodynamic preparations BD500-508…that’s the +! For complete information contact a biodynamic-friendly retailer near you.

This ETL-listed 14,000 BTU per hour cooling capacity portable unit will keep your growing area cool. It is energy efficient and can be easily moved to provide cooling where you need it most. It operates using a three speed control panel. It uses side-to-side air distribution to improve cooling performance and offers double pipe airflow for superior energy efficiency. It includes a remote control, a built-in condensation tray, an extendable double-exhaust hose and more. Visit an authorized Hydrofarm retailer near you for more information.

Introducing BD Thunder BD Thunder is a new idea in the concept of plant food. Not only does it supply maximum mineral and biological diversity, but it works on an energetic level. Some growers report using as little as one per cent by volume with measureable results. BD Thunder is a genuine biodynamic humus. All of the microbes contained are certified organic from the same biodynamic farm that has been in the same family for 350 years. Use it to create compost starter or to enhance results in soil or hydroponics. For complete information contact a biodynamic-friendly retailer near you.

HydroponiX pH Up and Down

Bake Bags Turkey Bags

Pure water is neutral and has a pH of 7. Who cares? Plants do. The pH of soil or a hydroponic solution greatly affects the amount of nutrients that a plant can absorb through its root system. Each nutrient element has a different optimal range for absorption. The range of 5.5 to 6.5 optimizes the various nutrient element absorption levels. HydroponiX pH Up and Down are in the mid/high range of potency. Help your plants get the most out of their nutrients by using HydroponiX pH Up and Down. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information.

Bake Bags are excellent for cooking and storing meat and poultry, and they also work as extra large garden bags, great for storing and transporting produce, herbs and fertilizer. These bags are larger than the competitor’s bags, waterproof and designed to be cooked or frozen, which makes them super durable. The thick nylon material creates a barrier between the contents of the bag and the outside air, keeping moisture in (or out) and reducing odors. Available in sets of three, 10 or 25, Bake Bags include plastic ties. Order them today from your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

GrowoniX Introduces Their New XL Scrubber

Guru Instigator Line of Lighting

The XL Scrubber is a high-capacity, high-flow water and sediment filter that also acts as a de-chlorinator. The XL Scrubber comes with an optional pressure release button and is constructed with a durable steel bracket. A pair of two inch stainless steel, liquidfilled pressure gauges monitor the condition of the filters, informing you when it’s time for a replacement. The XL Scrubber can also be ordered with an optional ultraviolet sterilizer to remove 99 per cent of all microorganisms. More information can be found at your local hydroponics shop.

Sometimes a light is never used for flowering. For this very reason, we designed Guru Instigator grow lights. Available in 120 and 300 watt models, the Guru Instigator line of lighting is engineered to maximize vegetative growth. The Instigator starts the fight and replaces energyintensive metal halide grow lights. The basic idea behind having specific vegetative lighting is to produce far more output in the blue spectrum, where vegetative plants get most of their food. Check out a hydro shop near you more information.

Root Faster and Bigger With Clear Rez™ and Rooting Compound™ EZ-CLONE Enterprises, Inc. has released two products that promote rapid root growth and maintain a clean aeroponic system. Clear Rez™ is a safe, non-toxic solution that increases plants’ oxygen intake while preventing the formation of scale mineral deposits. Rooting Compound™ is ideal for fresh cuttings and bolsters rapid root growth. With a perfect blend of the essential hormone indole butyric acid and vitamin B1, the gel is everything your cuttings need to establish prolific root growth. Order Clear Rez and Rooting Compound from your favorite indoor gardening shop today.

Size Does Matter Celebrate the newest member of the TurboKlone family, the T24 Turbo Mini. The Turbo Mini has all the perks you love from TurboKlone—lower temperature, greater oxygen and functional design. The Turbo Mini is a 24 site, high performance cloner that offers proven TurboKool technology, all in a cute-asa-button body that won’t break the bank. Bred with form and functionality, the Turbo Mini is a must for anyone who doesn’t want to sacrifice performance for size. The Turbo Mini is available now. Get yours today at your local indoor gardening shop.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Ideal-AirTM 180 Pint Dehumidifier Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the 180 Pint Dehumidifier from Ideal-AirTM. If too much moisture in your grow area is an issue, Ideal-AirTM has you covered. This portable dehumidifier offers an automatic restart allowing the unit to be used with humidity controllers. The easy-to-use digital display provides clear temperature and humidity readings. The removable washable filter provides hassle-free cleaning and maintenance. A powder coated metal casing and heavy-duty compressor ensure durability and long life. A one speed fan motor and built-in defrost system are included. Visit your local indoor gardening shop for more information.

Sticky Traps

Concentrate – It’s a No Brainer

Protect your plants from annoying pests with non-poisonous Sticky Traps from DL Wholesale. Available in two models, these Sticky Traps are weatherproof and extremely versatile. Lay them flat or fold them sticky side out and hang them with the included twist ties. The yellow trap is designed for aphids, whiteflies and mosquitoes; the blue trap works great for thrips and leafminers as well as gnats, fruitflies, leafhoppers and froghoppers. Order them today from your favorite indoor gardening shop.

Zero Tolerance Pesticide safely eliminates spider mites and other pests. The newly available concentrate is available in convenient pint-size bottles that make 2.5 gallons of ready-touse product. Plus fewer plastic containers will be heading to landfills. Gardeners like it because it fully evaporates, leaving no sticky residue. Made of essential plant oils, it even smells good. All Zero Tolerance products are approved for edible plants, 100 per cent vegan and safe to use around family and pets. Visit an indoor gardening shop for more information about how to develop your Zero Tolerance policy for pests.

Guru 120W Finisher The Guru 120 watt Finisher is built for flowering and vegetative growth in small spaces—a spare cabinet, closet or cupboard that can be transformed into a mini plant heaven. It covers approximately eight square feet at 50 watts per square foot of comparable HPS lighting. The Guru 120 watt Finisher is the Guru 300 watt Finisher’s younger brother. If you have a small space to fill with happy, high yielding plants, give them some love with the Guru 120 watt Finisher. Check out your favorite hydro shop for more information. Continued on page 42

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Continued from page 38

Introducing VersaGrow - the Perfect Balance of Performance and Simplicity Hydrotek’s VersaGrow system offers the perfect balance of performance and simplicity at a very competitive price. Regardless of the growth method (pots, cube or aero) or media chosen, our new VersaGrow systems are the ideal tool to obtain fast, rich and flavorful harvests. VersaGrow systems are very affordable and made of sturdy and resistant ABS plastic. They are easy to use and maintain, and they save space with their compact design. The VersaGrow is really the most effective system on the market. For more information visit a hydroponics shop near you.

HydroponiX Flushing Solution Flushing Solution is designed to flush away fertilizer salts and residues that accumulate in a plant’s stems, leaves and flowers. It can also be helpful when your PPMs get a little out of control and you need to do a quick flush so your plants don’t go on nutrient lock down. Use our Flushing Solution in the last week before you harvest for cleaner and better tasting crops. For more information, visit an indoor gardening shop near you.

The Complete Wheatgrass Kit Takes Wheatgrass Juicing to an Entirely New Level When wheatgrass is grown with our biodynamic micronutrient Earth Tonic, the result is energetic and mineral-rich wheatgrass. Not only is the juice more nutrient dense, but yields are up to 60 per cent higher. The juice is also sweeter and pleasant in taste and will keep longer without spoiling. It is said that one ounce of wheatgrass juice is the equivalent of 2.5 pounds of vegetables. Wheatgrass contains a complete range of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and nutrients that your body requires. For complete information contact a biodynamic-friendly retailer near you.

Presenting Just Right Xtra Custom Blends Just Right Xtra is made from all organic ingredients and contains coir, humus, worm castings, diatomaceous earth, subcultures M and B, sulfate of potash, bone char and rare earth mix. Just Right Xtra was designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of plants by ensuring a healthy biodiversity in its microbiology. The new custom blends offer a choice of mixes in fine-tuned proportions. By adjusting the recipe, the custom mixes can be specifically adjusted to meet a particular cultivar’s needs. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information. Continued on page 162

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

t r i D e h t n Digging i by Lee McCall

Get outside and soak up some D while playing in your hydroponic, raised bed, in-ground or container garden. While you’re at it, take advantage of longtime MY contributor Lee McCall’s recommended products, technologies and practices for success. Those familiar with the Colorado region I reside in know that we experience the majority of the weather patterns nature can offer in a single year—and occasionally all in a single day! Spring and summer always seem to start late and finish early here. Winters may drag on through the spring months, bringing precipitation of all forms, including snow, right up until the beginning of June. Although this can be discouraging, it does help to green things up before the dry, blazing hot summers scorch the landscape to almost drought-like conditions. Overall,

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

the prime outdoor growing season is fairly short here, so growers have to be sharp to ensure that short window of time is taken full advantage of before the first snow hits, usually sometime around Halloween. At a mile above sea level, the intense sunlight—more than 300 days a year on average—can really encourage rapid plant growth in conjunction with the proper nutrition regimen, a healthy rhizosphere and routine pest-preventative maintenance. Container, raised bed, in-ground and hydroponic techniques may all be

implemented in an outdoor garden with great success. Outdoor gardening obviously differs from indoor gardening with regard to the relative balance of certain environmental factors. The benefit of free sunlight cannot be overstated for outdoor gardeners, as proper lighting is a major expense that indoor gardeners must bear in order to produce healthy crops. Alternatively, carbon dioxide enrichment is not possible for outdoor growers—excluding greenhouse operators—and this enrichment serves to increase the overall quality and fresh weight of indoor harvests. For

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Digging in the Dirt

the average residential grower larger plants may be more easily produced outdoors given the space restrictions that are present in indoor residential grow rooms, so yields may be significantly higher outdoors. Bugs, on the other hand, are definitely easier to control indoors, since the grower exercises full control over the environment. While filtering incoming air will prevent molds and bugs from infecting sterile crop spaces indoors, outdoor pest control may be regarded more as an annoying but expected part of the hobby, rather than something that is completely controllable. I have always had to invest more in pest control in outdoor gardens as opposed to indoor ones. While natural controls such as predator bugs, foliar sprays and

insecticidal barriers like diatomaceous earth can help to control the pests and diseases that are constantly attacking outdoor crops, larger pests such as moles, rabbits, deer and squirrels will have to be

metals, chlorine, chloramines and contaminants. Carbon, sediment or reverse osmosis purification systems can help to provide a high-quality water source for all the plants in the garden. A quality growing medium and nutritional package will also help to keep growth progressive and consistent. Outdoors, I prefer a growing medium that has dominant moisture-holding capabilities—a rich organic soil heavy in castings, composted forest humus, coconut coir and perlite-grade diatomite will provide this and encourage lush microbial colonization as well. I choose not to add any more perlite than the amount that comes premixed in most organic potting soils and planting mixes, as it tends to increase drainage and encourage drought.

“ rich organic soil heavy in castings, composted forest humus, coconut coir and perlite-grade diatomite will...encourage lush microbial colonization.” physically restricted through the use of perimeter fencing or other deterrents. The best recommendation I can provide for outdoor gardeners is to first implement a clean water source, free of heavy

Rich organic soil is ideal for raised bed and in-ground gardens.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Digging in the Dirt

The type of rich organic soil I have described above is ideal for raised bed and in-ground planting. Go lighter on waterings if you are not used to incorporating such a heavy moisture-loving mix though, so as not to drown the roots slowly to death. Thorough watering is ideal, but make sure the plants are drying out, or consuming their water weight, between feedings. Aeration containers, whether fabric-based or injection molded, are also highly recommended for their root pruning properties and

r gardens should be “I believe all outdoo ganic and natural or h it w d te en m le pp su d to synthetic fertilizers as oppose ils and eradicate ones, which deplete so microbial colonies.” naturally-occuring

the increased dissipation of heat from the root zone caused from sun scald or high temperatures they can provide. Dose (top dress) raised beds and container gardens once a month with a premium organic granular (dry) fertilizer to ensure the optimal health and vigor of your garden. Specialty

Top dressing conta iner gardens once a month with a pre dry organic granu lar fertilizer will en mium sure optimal healt h and vigor.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Digging in the Dirt

blends are available from a wide variety of manufacturers that can provide plants with an immense but safely time-released amount of primary and secondary nutrients, trace elements and bacterial and fungal inoculants. I believe all outdoor gardens should be supplemented with these fertilizers as opposed to synthetic ones, which deplete soils and eradicate naturallyoccurring microbial colonies. These organic and natural fertilizer packages are relatively inexpensive—approximately $10 for a box or bag—and they will increase the vitality of the soil each time they are applied. This means that a raised bed or garden patch that has been treated this way season after season will actually increase in microbiological diversity. As the plot, bed or container naturally self-composts over time, nutrients should become more readily available and the soil’s water retention properties will be enhanced. Many people are also not aware that tilling their beds, plots or containers is a misguided practice. Until recently I was also an offender, until several experts educated me on the reasoning behind the principle. Never till the

“start seeds ind oors under grow lights so that th e weeks of early vegetative grow th establishmen t are already done when the weathe r finally allows o utdoor planting .”

soil! This disrupts the microbial colonization of the beneficial fungi and bacteria that are responsible for the bio-availability of nutrients to your plants. When growing hydroponically outdoors I find myself obsessing over root zone temperatures more than I probably should, although this is a critical aspect of hydroponic gardening—indoors or out—that always tends to give me problems if I neglect it. Water chillers are great examples of innovations that implement technological advancements in order to overcome natural environmental conditions. Heat may no longer debilitate your plants if they are able to maintain cooler root zones from the application of a chilled nutrient solution with high oxygen concentrations. Despite temperatures of 95°F and upwards, certain varietals will definitely tolerate even extreme heat waves so long as the roots are bathed with a chilled and oxygenated nutrient solution. Outdoors, insulate the nutrient reservoir as fully as possible to avoid temperature fluctuations and negative pathogen growth. Some growers will actually bury their holding tank partially or even completely in the ground, which insulates the solution and protects it from light. Drip systems—which allow 52

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

automated hands-free watering over a soilless or hydroponic grow medium using a submersible pump and timer—are easy to implement in most patio or outdoor gardening plots, and plastic tubing and drip emitters are available from most local hydroponic and indoor gardening supply outlets. Re-circulating and drain-to-waste systems may also be utilized. For water conservation purposes, I recommend soil, soilless or coco-based growing mediums that retain higher levels of moisture. With the growing season in mind, always prepare in advance to have a better chance of success. If possible, start seeds indoors under grow lights so that the weeks of early vegetative growth establishment are already done when the weather finally allows outdoor planting. Use shade cloth if necessary when hardening off transplants started inside so as not to instantly overdose the fragile starts with intense sunlight and too big a change—this is a great way to provide sown seeds a healthy start without overstressing them.You can also use coconut coir chips or croutons as a top dressing to create a decorative, eco-friendly landscaping effect on raised flower beds or garden plots. Large-grade diatomite adds a decorative appeal that decreases insect populations and adds beneficial silicates to the soil as well. As the weather gets warmer and vegetation reappears, we’re back once again to the joy of digging in the dirt in the backyard garden. Promote self-sustainable gardening practices whenever possible—and enjoy the fruits of your labor, compliments of the sun. MY

t waves so long as the will tolerate extreme hea Certain plant varieties nutrient solution. ated gen oxy a chilled and roots are bathed with

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Indoor Tomatoes: Growing for Flavor and Yields

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

Fresh, succulent, aromatic and flavorful— hydroponic tomatoes are one of the most popular choices for new and experienced growers alike. Nothing compares to a wellgrown, vine-ripe tomato, unless it’s one specifically grown for high flavor.Tomatoes are one crop that we can manipulate fairly easily to influence factors such as brix

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

(sugars), acidity, water content, color, shelf life, aroma and yields. In fact, experimenting with tomato plants season after season can become addictive when striving for that perfect fruit. Indoor growers have a major advantage when it comes to producing fresh tomatoes, as the seasons passing by outside just don’t matter to us; we are not

restricted to waiting impatiently for the first warmth of spring to sow seeds, or for summer heat and light to get those juicy fruits ripening. Indoors, we can supply optimum light, heat and day-length for crop after crop of tomatoes with no regard for the seasons—and freshly harvested fruit midwinter is a great reward for all our work.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes

Hydroponic tomatoes Tomatoes are the largest hydroponic crop grown commercially and possibly the most popular vegetable among smaller-scale producers as well. Part of this popularity is due to the versatility of the fruit: made into soups, preserves, sauces or relish, eaten dried, bottled or fresh—there are endless uses. Modern greenhouse technology means that tomatoes are also available year round, although fruit flavor can suffer somewhat during the cool winter months. Another reason for the success of tomatoes as a hydroponic crop was the development of commercial hybrid varieties, which gave not only massive increases in yields from tomato production but also resistance to certain diseases—such as Fusarium root rot—which in the past often limited tomato production to a short-season crop. While most large-scale commercial hydro“It’s the genetic diversity of tomatoes that makes them such a fascinating crop for indoor growers.”

ponic tomato production utilizes modern F1 hybrids, smaller scale growers can focus on other types such as the old heirloom varieties, which offer a huge selection in terms of color, shape, size and flavor. It’s the genetic diversity of tomatoes that makes them such a fascinating crop for indoor growers. Modern beefsteak hybrids offer very high yields of perfectly formed fruit with long shelf lives that are generally very easy to grow.While the older 56

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tomatoes are versatile and come in a wide range of colors, sizes and shapes.

heirlooms offer a wider selection of color, flavor and fruit type, they may be more challenging to grow and yield less fruit. Cultivar selection is a vital part of indoor tomato production and should be given careful consideration—many growers choose to test a few different types of tomatoes is to determine which is going to be the best performer in their particular system.

Indoor tomatoes

Light levels for tomatoes depend on both the stage of plant development and the density of the plants. Under good light conditions commercial crops are grown at a density of 2.5 plants per 10 square feet, although final density is somewhat dependent on the cultivar, as both indeterminate and determinate—or bush/dwarf—tomatoes are often grown indoors. Since one of the most common problems with tomatoes grown under artificial light is plant elongation or stretching, it’s a good idea to select cultivars that are compact or dwarfing and generative in habit, so that more of the plant’s energy can be put into fruit production and less into growing huge leaves and long stems. Hydroponic tomatoes can

Tomatoes have similar requirements to most other indoor hydroponic crops: they are warm-season, high-light plants that grow well alongside capsicum, chilies, melons, beans and other heat lovers.The optimum temperatures for tomato plants are in the 64 to 79ºF range, with nights cooler than days and a humidity reading of 70 to 80 per cent. The optimum day length for flowering tomato plants is around 16 to 18 hours for maxiHeirlooms are often reputed to all have great flavor, but this is not always the case, mum yields and testing and tasting are the only way to find that perfect tomato variety. best fruit quality.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes

Roma or low acid tomatoes offer a slightly different flavor profile to normal beefsteak fruit.

Choosing the right variety, such as hybrids and heirlooms, can make a difference to the final flavor outcome.

be roughly divided into two groups: the determinate or bush types and the indeterminate or vine types.Typically it’s the indeterminate types that are grown commercially in greenhouses, with plants that can be cropped for as long as “Any condition that puts some stress on the plant—such as a slight moisture deficit—can improve the flavor of tomatoes.”

18 months; however, within limited indoor garden spaces many growers have had good success with determinate types grown as short term crops, as this prevents many of the problems encountered with vines hitting the roof before any fruit are ready for harvest. Determinate and dwarf tomato types still need some form of support, such as staking or tying up, but are generally very productive. The characteristics to look for with tomato varieties have mostly to do with disease resistance; using cultivars with 58

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

multiple disease resistance—even when being grown in a highly protected indoor garden—is essential. New cultivars are resistant to most common tomato problems, including Fusarium root rot, late blight, tobacco mosaic virus,Verticillium, leaf mold, powdery mildew and many others, so it pays to check out the resistance characteristics of any hybrid cultivar before selecting which one to grow.

Tomato systems Tomato plants are typically very tolerant of growing systems and can thrive in media as diverse as solution culture, aeroponics, coco fiber, perlite, rockwool, sand, LECA, various grow rocks, sawdust, peat, bark and many others. NFT is suitable for tomato plants as well, although the root systems can become quite large on mature plants and may clog up the flow in channels. Generally, growing media that holds a lot of moisture between irrigations—such as coco fiber or peat—give a more vegetative plant, while more freely draining media such as coarse perlite and grow rocks tend to favor more generative growth, provided the system is well managed and irrigation

Older types of tomatoes such as `tigerella’ can provide well flavored fruit, but it pays to experiment to determine which are the best.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes

controlled to prevent overwatering. Effective nutrient formulations for tomatoes don’t need to be too complex: a good quality vegetative or grow formulation for the plant up until the time of first fruit set, followed by a higher-potassium fruiting formulation during the fruit development stage is generally all that is required. For crops carrying a heavy fruit load, the solution may also need a potassium booster to maintain high fruit quality. With indoor gardens, tomatoes do need a little extra care and attention when it comes to training and pollination.Tomatoes are self fertile, but they require some pollination assistance for good fruit set—gently tapping the back of the stem behind an open flower truss will cause pollen to be released. Plants generally have heavy trusses of developing fruit, which will need some form of support, although a few of the dwarf cherry tomato types can get away without any.

Flavor and yields Tomatoes are highly tolerant of salinity levels and it’s this fact that allows us to manipulate the flavor and dry matter content of the fruit.When tomato plants are grown at a high EC it creates an osmotic adjustment within the plant, which in turn restricts the amount of water that accumulates in the fruit.The fruit ends up with a higher percentage of dry matter, higher soluble solids and sugar levels and a lower moisture content, all of which are associated with large improvements in flavor and also in the volatiles or aromatics released by the fruit tissue. Unfortunately, using very high EC levels to get fantastic-tasting tomatoes also reduces the fresh weight or yield of the crop “Plentiful watering of tomato plants may result in high yields.”

somewhat, so the tradeoff in terms of yields and flavor quality has to be considered. High EC levels also predispose some cultivars to a higher occurrence of blossom end rot (black areas on the base of the fruit), although this is more common under hot growing conditions. Maintaining just the right EC level to push flavor quality while not stressing the plant too much is a skill many growers soon learn to achieve.While there are many EC programs recommended for tomatoes, the use of high EC to develop greater flavor profiles is highly dependent on factors such as the cultivar, growing conditions and growing medium. Modern F1 hybrid cultivars can handle much higher EC in the root zone without any growth problems compared to the older heirloom types, which are not bred for the same degree of stress resistance. An example of using a high EC regime on beefsteak hybrid types would be to start the seedlings at an EC of 2.5 and at the time of first fruit set bring this up to an EC of 60

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Yellow skinned fruit and sweet cherry tomatoes are good options for those seeking a flavor hit.

Tomatoes are versatile and come in a wide range of colors, sizes and shapes.

5.5 to 6.5 over a period of two to three weeks, finally maintaining an EC of 6.5 in the root zone (in other words, measuring the EC in the solution leachate, as that will determine what the EC is in the root zone). For an heirloom or non-hybrid tomato type the EC might only be increased to 4.0 to 4.5, but it should provide an equally good increase in fruit solids and sugar levels. How much of a flavor increase can be achieved with EC control is dependent on the cultivar, but researchers have found an increase in brix of 10 to 40 per cent is possible—a sugar level increase sufficient for us to easily taste the difference. Using a high EC to increase sugars in tomato fruit often also has the added bonus of increasing the volatiles or distinctive aromatic compounds in the fruit as well, and since smell is a big part of taste this can add significantly to the improved flavor profile. Firmness and shelf life—usually associated with a higher percentage of dry matter (less water) in the fruit— are also increased with higher EC levels.

What else influences tomato flavor? Irrigation control Along with EC control, the moisture level in the root zone can also affect the compositional quality of tomato fruit. Any condition that puts some stress on the plant—such as a slight moisture deficit—can improve the flavor of tomatoes. Plentiful watering of tomato plants may result in high yields, but it does this by forcing a lot of extra water into the fruit, thus lowering the percentage of dry mater and soluble solids (sugars) in the fruits—and a watery tomato is not considered to be very good quality. If you allow the root zone or growing medium to dry down slightly between irrigations the plant will restrict water Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes

influx into the fruit, giving better flavor quality in much the same way that a high EC will. However, it’s not a good idea to combine a very high EC treatment with insufficient irrigation for flavor improvement, as the combined effect can result in significant growth reductions and an increase in blossom end rot. Choosing one or the other methods is the best option, and with hydroponics— particularly if a solution culture such as NFT is being used—EC levels provide a higher degree of applied plant stress for flavor improvement.

door gardens as well.Tomato plants that are not receiving sufficient light soon develop thin leaves and a long, thin-stretched plant habit with long internodes, while those with sufficient light remain more compact, with darker, thicker foliage.

CO2 enrichment

CO2 enrichment to levels of 800 to 1,200 ppm are widely used in winter greenhouse production not only to speed up growth and increase yields but also to allow plants to produce more assimilate for importation Fully ripe and ready to eat, nothing beats a good tasting hydroponic tomato.

Genetics and light We know that genetics plays a major role in tomato fruit quality—some varieties naturally produce more sugars, acids and volatiles in the flesh than others—and that growing conditions such as moisture content and EC can improve flavor. However, other factors can also play a role. Light is a

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

main determinant of sugar levels in tomato fruit, as photosynthesis produces the sugars that are imported into the fruit. High-light conditions in summer are known to give better flavor profiles in greenhouse and field tomato crops and maintaining sufficient lighting is an important factor for in-

“Cool growing conditions (below 68ºF) restrict both sugar levels and aromatics in fruit.” into the fruit. CO2 enrichment is highly beneficial for tomato crops and even more so in indoor gardens, where levels can be

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Tantalizing Indoor Tomatoes

tightly controlled in the smaller confined space.

Temperature Warmth is essential for maximizing tomato fruit flavor; however, too much heat (temperatures above 82ºF) can speed up the rate of respiration and result in a loss in sugars available for importation into the fruit. Cool growing conditions (below 68ºF) also restrict both sugar levels and aromatics in fruit.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

In beefsteak varieties four to six fruit per truss is a good number to maintain, with higher numbers of smaller fruited types. There are so many options when it comes to manipulating the growth, yields and flavor of indoor hydroponic tomato plants. As long as the basics of tomato physiology are understood, there are almost unlimited posCommercial tomato production may focus on high yields, sibilities for amazing but indoor growers can produce great tasting fruit with a few simple techniques. crops from limited spaces. Concentrating on flavor Leaf to fruit ratio profiles is a good place to start as it’s possible Pruning excess fruitlets from tomato plants to grow fruit with a taste you just can’t get can help with ensuring good fruit size and from commercial growers, and the results a high level of flavor as the available photofrom using techniques such as high EC can assimilate is then shared between less fruit. also be thoroughly rewarding. MY

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

The Root Whisperer by Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr.

Hydroponic enthusiast and scientist Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. conducted research to determine which factors contribute to optimal essential element absorption, and which factors (and plant qualities) may actually be detrimental to the process. What did he conclude? Read on to discover.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

the root whisperer

“Functional roots require two things—oxygen and a continuous supply of carbohydrates—which are needed to generate the energy required for water and ion absorption to take place.”

oots perform two essential functions—they anchor the plant in the rooting medium and are the means by which water and essential nutrient elements enter the plant. Some may not fully appreciate the anchoring aspect until their field or garden plants dislodge or trees are blown over in high winds, illustrating the importance of sufficient root penetration into the rooting medium. Since the means by which water and essential nutrients enter the plant is a biological function, those factors that correlate with biological activity apply, such as pH, temperature, energy and oxygen supply. Roots will function under a fairly wide pH range—5.5 to 7.0—while root function is at its optimum when the root temperature is within 68 to 86°F, or within the same range as that experienced by the aerial portion of the plant. Plants will wilt if the root temperature differs too much from that existing around the aerial portions. Functional roots require two things—oxygen and a continuous supply of carbohydrates—which are needed to generate the energy required for water and ion absorption to take place. With a large or enlarging root system, significant quantities of carbohydrates are needed and the likelihood of an anaerobic condition developing increases, because carbohydrates that form in plant leaves by photosynthesis must be divided between those needed for vegetative growth, including the formation of flowers and fruit, and those required by the roots. 68

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

the root whisperer

The balance between root and vegetative plant growth has been the subject of many investigations, although no definitive understanding of the relationship has yet been reached. The unanswered questions are, first: “who is in the driver’s seat for growth—the roots or the vegetative portion of the plant?” And second: “where do the photosynthetically-generated carbohydrates go first?” Root death is not an uncommon occurrence in some growing systems and it was the factor that doomed the nutrient film technique (NFT) for the growing of long-term crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. Once the NFT trough was filled with roots, the flow of nutrient solution down the trough was impeded and there was insufficient oxygen within the root mass to sustain root function. As portions of the root system began to die due to oxygen starvation, plant growth and fruit formation slowed or stopped

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

and with increasing oxygen starvation the plants died. The size of the root mass is not a significant factor in a plant’s ability to absorb water and essential nutrients— what is important is that the roots are functional. The only exception would be when the rooting environment is minimal in terms of water and elemental availability, making a large root soil contact surface necessary in order for the plant to meet all its water and elemental needs. In mineral soils as well as for some types of soilless mixes, contact between ions in solution and plant roots is governed by three physical processes—mass flow, diffusion and root interception. Those elements dissolved in the soil solution will move as water moves within the rooting medium, bringing them into contact with plant roots. Ion absorption from the solution surrounding the root creates a concentration gradient that results

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

the root whisperer

“Root hair development occurs in a moist (not wet) rooting environment, particularly when the essential plant nutrient element supply is low.“

in the movement of ions some distance from the root, moving by diffusion into the area where the absorption occurred. The plant also plays a role as its roots grow into the rooting medium, increasing the contact surface between plant roots and the rooting medium. Maintaining constant conditions within the rooting medium will allow plant roots to seek out that portion having a desirable balance between water and oxygen supply. If there are constant changes in the rooting environment then root development and function will be adversely affected, which will be reflected in periodic wilting under conditions of high atmospheric demand, coupled with nutrient element insufficiencies that will slow vegetative growth and lower product yield and quality. Root absorption of essential elemental ions is a complex process that is not yet entirely understood. For an element to be absorbed by the roots it must exist in ionic form, as plant roots are not generally able to absorb molecules. For ion absorption to occur energy is required, which is obtained by root respiration, which in turn requires a supply of carbohydrates and the presence of oxygen. Ion absorption will not occur under anaerobic conditions around the root. Since water and ion absorption occur at the same time, some scientists believe that a portion of the ions in solution are carried into the root with the incoming water, bypassing the mechanisms previously thought to be required for ion absorption to occur. Water is pulled into the plant root by pressure generated by the transpiration of water from leaf surfaces, but ion absorption can occur even when water is not being absorbed. It is the area immediately behind the growing root tip where most of the water and ion absorption occurs. As the root matures, absorption activity declines. For hydroponic growing, where the entire root mass is exposed to 72

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

a nutrient solution, root maturity will not be as much of a factor in water and ion absorption. Root hair development occurs in a moist (not wet) rooting environment, particularly when the essential plant nutrient element supply is low. Root hair development does not occur in adequately fertilized soils, soilless media or hydroponic growing systems.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

the root whisperer

When both nitrogen and phosphorus are in abundant supply in the rooting medium, root hairs will not develop. A unique zone can exist around the root known as the rhizosphere, a thin cylindrical zone immediately around the root serving as the interface between the root surface and the surrounding rooting medium. Rhizosphere development requires a stable rooting environment that is not provided by most hydroponic growing systems, where a nutrient solution is delivered periodically to the rooting medium. For some woody plants, like trees, there is no radial redistribution of absorbed essential elements— or of water either, at least to some degree—so that all the roots must be functioning equally for normal growth to occur. At the entrance to a bank there was a large raised bed with a young pin oak tree planted in its center, providing beautiful fall color. The area around the tree was covered with mulch. Wanting to add flowering plant color appropriate for each season of the year, the bank manager contracted a local garden club to select and set appropriate plants in the bed around the pin oak tree.

“For trees and most woody plants, what are known as feeder roots grow up toward the soil surface, not down, the feeder roots forming from lateral roots extending from the base of the plant .“

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

the root whisperer

Over the next several years, everyone admired the beautiful array of flowering plants with the changing seasons, but no one paid attention to the pin oak tree—which stopped growing and then, several years later, died during the winter. Why? For trees and most woody plants, what are known as feeder roots grow up toward the soil surface, not down, the feeder roots forming from lateral roots extending from the base of the plant. The constant disturbance of the soil surface around the pin oak kept the feeder roots from functioning—roots that were essential for the tree to sustain growth. Another factor that probably had an effect was the rooting medium used for the flowering plants, which brought in fertilizer elements (NPK) not needed by the tree and possibly contributed to its death. A similar root-affecting situation existed at a field crop research station that I frequently visited during the growing season. There were groves of pecan trees scattered about the station grounds. In one area, four large pecan trees provided shade for the workers, who parked their trucks and field equipment under them during lunch and rest breaks. The general appearance of the pecan trees was not affected by this practice, but none of these pecan trees ever produced nuts.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

“For most plants it has been demonstrated that just one actively functioning root is capable of supplying most, if not all, of its essential nutrient elements.“

For most plants it has been demonstrated that just one actively functioning root is capable of supplying most, if not all, of its essential nutrient elements. I have also conducted research to determine what effect rooting vessel size and shape can have on tomato plant growth and fruit yield. I found that a tomato plant will grow well and produce fruit when rooted in a one quart beverage bottle, with perlite being the rooting medium and the nutrient solution being introduced into the bottom of the bottle. Root size is not a significant factor in essential element absorption if there is an adequate supply of carbohydrates and oxygen available for the functioning roots. However, root mass can be a factor—depending on plant water demands—when the plant leaf area is large and the atmospheric demand high. In general, there is no consistent positive correlation between root mass and plant growth and product yield. In fact, a large root mass may actually be detrimental to plant growth and product yield due to the amount of carbohydrates and oxygen necessary to sustain the function of such large roots. MY

Green Thumb gardening

How Healthy Are Your Nutrients? by Susan Slobac

Small choices that make a big difference. Did you know that a product labeled as all natural does not necessarily mean it is certified organic? Learn what makes a product 100 per cent organic and how to spot the best nutrient mixes for your plants. Revitalize your plants with organic and natural sourced fertilizers. Slow release fertilizers work well too as they continue to work and slowly break down. Over time soil fertility is re-established, and the need for supplements will decline. Steve Solomon’s Formula (NPK 1:1.5:1) Measure by volume: • four parts seed meal (canola, alfalfa or soy) or fishmeal • one part dolomite lime • one part rock phosphate or ½ part bone meal • one part kelp meal Blend well, but mix again before application. Work in lightly under young transplants, or side dress along existing plants. Apply around the drip line of plants and work in gently so as not to damage the roots. Granulated fertilizer takes three to four weeks to break down before roots can access it.

Seed meals = nitrogen source (N) for healthy leafy greens Rock phosphate = phosphorus (P) for fruits and flowers Kelp meal = potassium (potash) (K) for roots and overall good health Lime counteracts soil acidity and adds calcium and magnesium

Tips to remember: • Try to avoid nitrate-based fertilizers, which are synthetic, as they often contain a high salt index that can cause root burning and dehydration. • Organic and natural fertilizers are derived from a plant, animal or mineral source, not those containing certified organic materials. Organic fertilizers won’t dry or burn your medium; instead they will rehabilitate soil quality and improve the general health of your garden. • Natural fertilizers should contain ingredients some as bone meal, kelp meal and alfalfa meal. Natural fertilizers break down in the soil slowly, which is beneficial to plants. Avoid natural fertilizers with peat moss, which is harvested from swiftly disappearing bog habitats. • When buying fertilizers, look for those with a seal from the Organic Materials Review Institute, which means they can be used on certified organic farms. • Fertilize with compost tea. • Plant food should consist of nitrogen, phosphates and potash.

Without proper food, your plants won’t thrive and flourish. Just like humans need food, plants grown indoors do too. (Source: www.articlesbase.com)

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics by Grubbycup

Understanding some of the basic concepts associated with fertilizers and plant nutrition can help gardeners make informed choices in selecting and using appropriate nutrients for their gardens.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics

“While all three elements are used by plants for most of their lives, the proportions required by plants can change based on the developmental stage they are in. “

hree elements that plants require in comparatively large quantities are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These elements are referred to as macronutrients and are commonly included in fertilizers. The NPK numbers listed on a container of plant food are an indication of how much nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are in the fertilizer, a calculation based on percentage weight. The first of the three numbers indicates the percentage of nitrogen. Ammonium nitrate (NH4)(NO3) has an NPK rating of 33-0-0, which means that 33 per cent of the weight of the fertilizer is nitrogen and 66 per cent of the weight of the fertilizer is something else. The second number is the amount of phosphorus by weight if the phosphorus was expressed as phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5)—even if the phosphorus is in another form. So phosphate rock with a NPK rating of 0-30-0 indicates that it contains enough phosphorous to create enough phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) to equal 30 per cent of the total weight. The third number is potassium content by weight if the potassium was expressed as potassium oxide (K2O). An NPK rating of 0-0-60 for potassium chloride denotes a potassium content equal to 60 per cent potassium oxide. While it is technically correct that the P and K portions of the NPK rating aren’t precisely the actual elemental amounts found in a fertilizer, the amount of skew in each of the numbers remains consistent. Because of this, the numbers 82

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics

can logically be treated as being actual values for the purpose of comparing NPK values against each other. In other words, the NPK values can be treated as a trustworthy relative indication of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium levels when comparing fertilizers. NPK ratings are proportions, so a fertilizer with an NPK rating of 2-1-2 has the same proportion as a fertilizer made from the same ingredients at 4-2-4. The difference would only be in the percentage of fillers or in the concentrations of the elements involved. While all three elements are used by plants for most of their lives, the proportions required by plants can change based on the developmental stage they are in. An increase in nitrogen, for example, promotes leaf and structure growth, which is important for strong early development, while higher phosphorous levels promote vigorous flowering and fruiting. Nitrogen (N) Nitrogen is important for the proper development of chlorophyll (the green in leaves), large healthy foliage, root absorption and normal plant growth. A nitrogen deficiency can lead to retarded growth, with light green or yellow leaves. In land plants, nitrogen deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency, while an overabundance of nitrogen can cause accelerated growth at the expense of structural strength. Too much available nitrogen can also inhibit flowering in some plants.

“Nitrogen is important for the proper development of chlorophyll (the green in leaves), large healthy foliage, root absorption and normal plant growth. “ 84

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics

Nitrogen gas (N2) is the most common element in our atmosphere. Since plants are unable to absorb nitrogen directly from the air, the nitrogen gas must be converted into ammonium (NH4) or nitrate (NO3) to be available to plants. Nitrogen from the air becomes fixed in the form of ammonia (NH3) by certain microorganisms. Bacteria such as Rhizobium live in the roots of legumes—things like beans, clover, peas and peanuts. Because of this symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, legumes are often used in crop rotations to restore nitrogen to depleted soil. Organic nitrogen is locked in organic material and is unavailable to plants until decomposition, when it becomes a natural source of ammonia (NH3), and ammonium (NH4). The waste products of animals also contain nitrogen in the form of urea (NH2)2(CO), which is converted to ammonia (NH3) by bacteria using the enzyme ureasec. Regardless of the source, if ammonia is exposed to acidic conditions—with pH levels less than seven—it picks up another hydrogen (H) atom and converts it to ammonium (NH4). A manmade source of ammonium (NH4) is created from nitrogen gas (N2) by applying heat, pressure and an iron catalyst. Ammonium sulfate (NH4)2(SO4) and ammonium nitrate (NH4)(NO3) are other manufactured forms of nitrogen used for fertilizer. Trees and shrubs are able to absorb nitrogen from ammonium, but grasses and vegetables respond better to nitrogen that has been further processed by bacteria into nitrate (NO3). Nitrifying (with an ‘i’) bacteria convert the ammonium to nitrites, then nitrafying (with an ‘a’) bacteria such as Nitrobacter convert the nitrites (NO2) to nitrates (NO3). Nitrates are in a state that can be absorbed by the plant but they are also soluble in water, so excess amounts are easily washed away and can

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics

contribute to agricultural pollution issues. Ideally, plants should be exposed to nitrates at a rate that corresponds to what they actually use. Too little and the plant underperforms—too much and the excess can go to waste or cause environmental damage. Common forms of nitrogen that are used as fertilizers are: • Potassium nitrate (KNO 3), sodium nitrate (NaNO 3) and ammonium nitrate (NH 4)(NO 3), all fertilizers that supply immediately available nitrates. • Ammonium sulfate (NH4)2(SO4) and ammonium nitrate (NH4)(NO3), manmade fertilizers that supply ammonium for plant use and for bacteria to convert to nitrate. • Urea (NH2)2(CO), which converts quickly to ammonium and then gradually converts to nitrate. • Organic nitrogen (from proteins and amino acids), which is not immediately available to plants and must be broken down by bacteria first into ammonium and then nitrate.The distribution of nitrogen is spread out over a period of time. Phosphorus (P) Phosphorus is required for photosynthesis, blooming and root development. Phosphorus deficiencies are rare in plants and usually

manifest as a generalized underperformance. Phosphorus is mined as rock phosphate and subjected to an electric furnace or treated with an acid to create orthophosphoric acid, which can be used by plants—water is sometimes removed from the acid to manufacture superphosphoric acid. Phosphorous can be obtained naturally from organic composts or bone meal. Potassium (K) Potassium is important for photosynthesis and disease resistance. A potassium deficiency often results in curled leaf tips, yellowing veins and, occasionally, blue or purple blemishes.These symptoms often first appear in older leaves and continue to work up through to the newer leaves if not corrected. Potassium is also known as potash. Common forms of potassium that are used for fertilizer include: • Potassium chloride (KCl).The chlorine separates easily, leaving potassium available for plants. • Potassium sulfate (K3SO4) • Potassium nitrate (KNO3) To compare fertilizers, read the labels for the NPK rating and the listed ingredients:. Example Fertilizer #1: NPK 8-5-5 Nitrogen sources are 0.3 per cent ammoniacal nitrogen, 6.8 per cent water-insoluble nitrogen and 0.9 per cent other water-soluble nitrogen. Since most of the nitrogen listed is water insoluble, it will be released in small amounts over a long period.The phosphorous source listed is five per cent phosphate and the potassium source is five per cent soluble potash, both of which are immediately available to the plant.When applied, this fertilizer will release nitrogen over a long time period, but not much right away. Example Fertilizer #2: NPK 8-4-4 Even though this fertilizer has the same N value as fertilizer number one, it will behave slightly different. The nitrogen sources are 1.52 per cent nitrate nitrogen, which is immediately available for use, but it won’t last long.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

NPK Basics

“hydroponic gardens may or may not require a supplement depending on the trace elements present in the water used. “ It also contains 2.96 per cent ammoniacal nitrogen—some can be used as is, but most will be converted to nitrates by bacteria. There is also 2.92 per cent urea nitrogen—which is not immediately available for use, but must be converted by bacteria to ammonium and ultimately nitrates for use—and 0.6 per cent water-insoluble nitrogen. This fertilizer can be used to immediately introduce nitrogen to the soil and then continue to release it over time. Since it has little water-insoluble nitrogen, it would have to be reapplied more frequently at smaller doses than fertilizer number one.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Example Fertilizer #3: NPK 12-10-5 Nitrogen sources are 5.5 per cent ammoniacal nitrogen and 6.5 per cent urea nitrogen, both of which will convert quickly to ammonium and then into nitrates. Phosphorous is furnished by 10 per cent available phosphate and the potassium by five per cent soluble potash. Since the potassium in this example is low in comparison to the nitrogen and phosphorous, during fruiting it may be advantageous to add a potash supplement. While nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are the most important nutrients plants require, they aren’t the only ones. Plants also need small amounts of calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), magnesium (Mg) and silicon (Si). In many environments these can be taken from the existing soil, but if these elements are not present deficiencies can manifest—deficiencies that are much more common in hydroponic gardening, since it does not use soil. Hydroponic fertilizers use additives to furnish these elements to the nutrient solution. Plants also require trace amounts of boron (B), chlorine (Cl), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), selenium (Se) and sodium (Na). While elemental deficiencies of this nature in plants grown in soil are very rare since small amounts of these elements are common in soil, hydroponic gardens may or may not require a supplement depending on the trace elements present in the water used. The NPK rating is a reliable indicator of the proportions of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium contained in fertilizers and the listed ingredients should declare the type of nitrogen used. Considering these factors can help you to make an informed decision about choosing a fertilizer that best meets your garden’s needs. MY

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

International Edibles: Indoor Thai Garden

by Matt LeBannister

International Edibles: Indoor Thai Garden by Matt LeBannister

Break out the wok and soy sauce—oh yeah, and all the gear you need to grow indoors— and cultivate a homegrown flavor-infused Thai garden.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Gardening indoors is a rewarding experience with unique benefits. When working indoors you can garden all year long, you can raise plants that could not handle your local outdoor climate and you can choose to grow things that are not readily available in your particular region. And if you enjoy cooking foreign cuisine, it is relatively easy to find the seeds to grow exotic heirloom strains in your own home—there are now many companies dedicated to saving and selling different heirloom seeds online, making them available to the average gardener for the first time. This article will focus on some plants that are common ingredients in Thai cuisine—such as Thai chili peppers, Asian greens, bunching onion, lemongrass and several more—that can all be grown easily at home, allowing you to use fresh ingredients to prepare exciting international cuisine all year round. Lemongrass Lemongrass is a great example of a common Thai ingredient that can be grown easily in your indoor garden. This tall perennial grass is known for its lemon/citrus flavor and the entire stalk is used in teas, soups, curries, stir-fries and many other Thai dishes. Lemongrass is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be dried or frozen for use later. Lemongrass is a light-loving plant that can be grown at home on a sunny windowsill or under

“This flavorful plant can be grown in a variety of media including soil and soilless mixes.”

appropriate indoor grow lights like high-efficiency T5 fluorescents. This flavorful plant can be grown in a variety of media including soil and soilless mixes, as well as in media designed for hydroponics such as expanded clay and rockwool. Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

International edibles: Indoor Thai Garden

“After four weeks of vegetative growth, in order to essentially trick the plant into flowering, you’ll have to change the photoperiod.”

Thai chili peppers Thai chili peppers—which add the heat to most spicy Thai dishes—are another common ingredient in Thai cuisine. Thai chili peppers are small plants that produce tiny hot peppers and they can be grown indoors from seed or cuttings. During the vegetative stage of growth these plants require 18 hours of uninterrupted light, followed by six hours of uninterrupted darkness—they require lots of light to thrive, and do best under an array of T5 fluorescent bulbs or under HID bulbs. After four weeks of vegetative growth, in order to essentially trick the plant into flowering, you’ll have to change the photoperiod: Thai chili peppers need 12 hours of uninterrupted light followed by 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness to flower. The hardest part of flowering Thai chili peppers indoors is pollinating the flowers. The

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

best method for success is to hand pollinate the flowers, using a paintbrush twice a day to spread the pollen from flower to flower. Once the flower has been pollinated the chili peppers will begin to set on the plant, and in four to six weeks after pollination the fruit will be ready for consumption. Some people prefer to allow the chilies to turn red before they are picked, while others prefer to use them green, when they are slightly hotter. Asian greens There are many different Asian greens that are commonly used in Thai cuisine. Chinese cabbage, red mustard, mizuna, bok choy, edible chrysanthemum and tatsoi are just a few examples of Asian greens that can be grown indoors, and each type brings its own unique flavor to the Thai culinary experience. Eaten raw or used in stir-fries, soups or any number of exotic dishes, these nutritious greens are excellent sources of calcium and vitamin A. For Asian greens to thrive in your indoor garden they need a cool environment of 70°F and medium levels of light that can be provided by T5 fluorescents, for example. HIDs can be used, but should be hung far away enough from the top of the plants so they won’t burn. The pH levels should be around 6.0 to 6.5 in soil or soilless mix and between 5.8 and 6.4 in hydroponics. Plants can be harvested either a few leaves at a time or the whole plant at once. Thai basil Thai basil is very common in Thai cuisine and is a flavorful herb that can also be grown easily at home, although it’s quite different from the basil most people are used to. The leaves are small and narrow and the flowers can be pink or purple, while the stems can also have purple in them. Thai basil is unique

“Thai basil is unique in its flavor—often compared to that of licorice or anise.”

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

International edibles: Indoor Thai Garden

in its flavor—often compared to that of licorice or anise—and is used in many Thai dishes such as stir-fries and noodles. Growing Thai basil indoors is relatively easy, as it can be grown in any medium and does really well in hydroponics. Thai basil thrives with lots of light and can produce huge

leaves under T5 fluorescents or HIDs, but if simplicity is your style, Thai basil can also do very well in a sunny windowsill. It will thrive with 18 hours of uninterrupted light followed by six hours of uninterrupted darkness, and does best with a pH between 6.1 and 6.5 in soil and soilless mixes and between 5.8 and 6.4 in hydroponics. Plants should be fed nutrients designed for the vegetative stage; for organic gardeners, try using kelp extract or fish elusion extract for complete plant nutrition. Thai basil can be used fresh a few leaves at a time or harvested whole and dried. A day or “Thai basil thrives with lots of light two before harvest, try flushing out the growand can produce huge leaves under T5 ing medium with straight pH-balanced water or with a hydroponic clearing solution, as this will fluorescents or HIDs.” help preserve the amazing flavor of the plants by flushing out any built-up salts.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Bunching onions Bunching onions are a common ingredient in Thai and other Asian cuisines, and are used in stir-fries, fried rice, noodle dishes, soups and more. These versatile onions can be grown at home easily and are better suited to be grown in soil or soilless mixes than in hydroponics, since they require at least eight inches of depth to grow. Bunching onions also like having plenty of light and do well underneath T5 fluorescents, HIDs or even on a sunny windowsill. Bunching onions are also entirely edible. Some growers prefer to harvest just the young, tender blades, while others prefer waiting until the blades are more mature, when the eight to 10 inch high onions can be used for their lower white flesh as well. Pink egg tomatoes Pink egg tomatoes are a unique and acquired taste often found in Thai dishes. Tomatoes, like chili peppers, originate from the Americas and were brought back by early explorers.

Pink egg tomatoes are similar to grape tomatoes in size and shape, but tend to be white, peach or pale pink in color.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

International edibles: Indoor Thai Garden

Soon these tastes spread around the globe, influencing international cuisine and changing it forever. Pink egg tomatoes are similar to grape tomatoes in size and shape, but tend to be white, peach or pale pink in color, while their flavor really is more of an acquired taste, as they are quite acidic and not particularly flavorful. Pink egg tomatoes prefer full sunlight outdoors and do best under HID bulbs indoors. Plants started from seeds or cuttings will require 18 hours of uninterrupted light followed by six hours of uninterrupted darkness, which will keep them in the vegetative phase and promote dense foliage. After four to six weeks of this the plants will be mature enough to begin flowering, which can be accomplished by changing the photoperiod to 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness. At this time you should also switch from a nitrogen-heavy vegetative nutrient solution to a phosphorous-rich flowering nutrient solution. For plants to be efficiently

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

pollinated indoors one must do it by hand— by dabbing each flower with a paint brush twice daily you can ensure that most flowers will be pollinated and produce fruit. Six to eight weeks into the flowering stage you can begin to pick your tomatoes, and the plant should continue to produce fruit for a couple of months. Gardening indoors offers a variety of benefits, like being able to grow the ingredients you’ll need to cook dishes from all over the world.Thai dishes are rich with the bold tastes and nutrition provided by such unique ingredients as bunching onions, lemongrass, Thai chilies and Thai basil, and using herbs and vegetables straight from the garden will give your dishes a blast of freshness and flavor.Thai food is just the beginning, too— there’s a whole world of exotic produce just waiting to be discovered! MY Sources: www.basilgardening.com www.motherearthnews.com

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Beginner’s Corner

by Hans Kersbergen Room Temperature The growth and bloom periods of plants are determined by time (12 or 18 hours), and also the color of lights used (blue = grow period, red = bloom period). Plants will also react to the temperature of the room. The ideal temperature during the growth period is 75°F. This means summer temperatures during the day and in the evening will be warm. In this way, the plants will produce growth hormones, and when autumn starts, the daytime temperature will still be warm with the night time temperatures much cooler. When you keep the temperature in the bloom period 82°F when the lights are on and 68°F when the lights are off, it is a sign for the plants to produce bloom hormones. Humidity Humidity is one of the most important properties to control in the grow room. In the growth period, you must keep the humidity around the plant about 85 per cent to avoid over-evaporation of cuttings. Focus your efforts on helping the substrate produce strong roots, which will be going in search of water, an action you want to see during the growth period. The only item you must be aware of is curling leaves, an indication that the leaves have a cooling problem. This can be a direct result of lack of water circulation through the plant via the roots (root pressure) or the humidity in the room may be 100

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

too low. As your plants grow, they produce more leaves, which signals an increase in evaporation. During this time you must be aware of the grow room’s humidity. A higher humidity causes the roots to work harder at bringing water to the leaves. If leaves start to curl, they need cool water via the substrate. Fans and Air Socks It is very important to create the same temperature and humidity in the grow room every day. How do you do this? Place a ventilator in every corner so that air is blowing in a circle; this circulation will produce a cyclone. The only disadvantage to this is the eye of the cyclone will be at a higher temperature and humidity than the rest of the room. To control this, simply place your filter in the middle of the room to take away the air. The plants also need fresh outside air, as it contains CO2. Allowing your plants to continue to grow in the evening will provide an additional benefit of 25 per cent more CO2 thanks to assistance from the plants and trees outside. This air must be brought into the room evenly using an air sock (placed between the filter and the reflectors). When the inlet air is too warm (above 64°F) you must put the air sock below the plants. This air sock is also preventative against all kinds of spores and mites and it muffles a noisy inlet.

“Humidity is one of the most important properties to control in the grow room. In the growth period, you must keep the humidity around the plant about 85 per cent to avoid over-evaporation of cuttings.“

Water Temperature and Tank Your nutrient solution must be mixed in a reservoir that is dark in color, as light will influence your water’s pH. Using a cover on the top of your tank will help keep light away. A circulation pump in the tank will help keep the nutrients dissolved in the water. An oxygen pump will provide improved root pressure. Another beneficial tool is a heating element in the tank, assisting with maintaining an ideal water temperature for the plant.The ideal temperature for the plant is 72°F—room temperature of 75°F minus the evaporation of the plant—this is around two or three degrees).When the water quality is very poor use a filter or bring down the hardness of the water with a pH nitrogen minus (acid eats lime). Don’t use the water too long (two or three days) because it will get warmer (lose oxygen) but also the pH of the water will rise. EC and Flush When salts build up in your substrate, it takes water away from the roots, causing them to have to fight for hydration. A domino effect then occurs, as the roots cannot get water quickly enough to the leaves and they start to curl. If this continues for a long period of time, the leaves will burn. Salt buildup is the result of improper nutrient ratios or a concentration of bad salts (chloride, sodium). Many growers flush their system when they start to see leaf curl, which they blame on too much nutrient.The best way to counteract leaf curl is to check the water levels in the substrate. If it is too dry, you can lower the EC in the water tank. But don’t forget to keep feeding. By neglecting your nutrient schedule, other problems will arise. Flushing can also create Pythium (root rot) and long, stretching plants. Watering Watering of the plants depends on your climate; this includes the humidity, temperature, EC and air movements (in and out).When you follow a feeding schedule exactly you will see you plants evaporate at just the right amount. MY Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

101

Hot Weather

Cloning by Casey Jones Fraser

The secrets to getting successful results from your cloning machine are revealed. 102

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

hot weather cloning

t’s 95°F outside and I’m inside with a cold. This seems like a good time to take cuttings, since I’m too tired to work in my garden outside. As children, we all looked forward to carefree summer vacations and sunny days at the pool—now, as I try to keep my post-nasal drip from hitting the keyboard, I think of the hard work involved with a summertime indoor garden. Every summer I hear about over-heated grow rooms and cuttings that lack roots. While I can’t turn down the heat outside, I can offer a few tips for your cloning woes. Cloning machines are all the rage for hydro enthusiasts and in the long run they pay for themselves, since you no longer need propagation trays, domes or a growing medium. In the summer, however, I always hear complaints about slow performance—or even no performance—from formerly successful cloners. The key to running a successful cloning machine is microorganisms. A cloning machine with the water temperature below 72°F is ideal for beneficial microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilus and Bacillus pumilus; you can ask for products containing these and other beneficial bacteria when shopping at your local hydroponics dealer.These beneficial bacteria will colonize in oxygen-rich cool water. As temperatures increase past 72ºF, however, the water rapidly loses oxygen molecules.Water that is lacking in oxygen is called anaerobic and the types of bacteria that thrive under these conditions will ruin your cuttings—anaerobic bacteria can cause disease and rot, while aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria promote healthy root systems and a clean cloning machine.

“The key to running a successful cloning machine is microorganisms.”

104

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

You might also consider running a chiller on your cloning machine, which acts like an air conditioner for the water. Unfortunately, chillers can often cost more than the cloning machine itself, and you’ll lose two cloning sites due to the inlet and outlet tubing running to and from the chiller.

“My favorite sterilizing additive contains hypochlorous acid, a naturally-occurring ingredient that will knock out any microorganisms in your cloning machine or hydro reservoir.”

So how do you keep your reservoir temperature at a cool 70°F without a chiller? I keep mine on a concrete floor—the concrete slab is much cooler than room temperature. Although the cuttings are exposed to air temperatures in the mid to upper 70s, the roots and stems remain in the low 70s or even upper 60s. Another option is to select one small room in your house just for cloning. I once cleaned out my bedroom closet and bought a window-unit air conditioner, which I used to keep the room at a cool 70°F—great for my sleep and my cuttings. I settled on the one-cold-room option because the lights in the flowering section of my garden had begun to overheat the vegetative area of the garden. But what about those large scale set-ups that can never get below 80°F in the summertime? There is still hope—even if

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

105

hot weather cloning

your cloning machine is running at temperatures of 73 to 83°F, you can still get successful results from your machine. As I mentioned earlier, temperatures in this range will promote bad bacteria, so you’ll have to cut out the bacteria altogether.

There are at least five different sterilizing products from five different manufacturers available in the hydroponics industry, using ingredients from micro-chloramines to canola oil. I usually avoid these products because I buy beneficial bacteria and beneficial fungi and I wouldn’t want to add bacteria and bacteria killer to the same reservoir. But we are dealing with serious heat issues here and the high temperatures alone will kill off all of your good bacteria and promote bad bacteria, so when you are forced to deal with high temperatures you should just buy a product that will sterilize the water—don’t even bother adding the beneficial bacteria. My favorite sterilizing additive contains hypochlorous acid, a naturally occurring ingredient that will knock out any microorganisms in your cloning machine or hydro reservoir. Another tip for cloning machines: use the stickiest gel you can find. I have about three cloning gels that are all tied for first

“Plugs can be round or square, inert or inoculated, green or brown, and you can set any of them into a standard seedling tray. “

106

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

107

hot weather cloning

place, but I use the stickiest of the three for my cloner because the jet streams of water will quickly rinse off thinner gels. What about growers who clone plants using starter plugs? This is also a common method of starting new plants from cuttings. Plugs can be round or square, inert or inoculated, green or brown, and you can set any of them into a standard seedling tray. Because most of

“If your room is at 75ºF already a heat mat could create a 95ºF cloning environment, which isn’t a cloning environment at all—it’s a clone killing zone!”

these plugs offer the perfect air-towater ratio, there is still oxygen present at higher temperatures. I like to keep my propagation trays at about 76°F for optimum results and I also add beneficial bacteria and fungi to the plugs, which discourage bad microorganisms while encouraging a larger root mass. New products featuring beneficial bacteria and beneficial fungi are all over the hydroponics

108

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

109

hot weather cloning

“cloning machines need 72°F water to promote beneficial microorganisms, but they will still function at slightly higher temperatures if you use a sterilizing product. “ market today, so which one should you buy? I have used several brands and while I find that all of them offer some benefits, from my test results it would appear that the products containing the widest variety of beneficial microorganisms perform the best. One step beyond bottled products are custom compost teas, expertly brewed by you or your local hydroponics retailer. While teas like this offer the greatest benefits compared to powdered or bottled inoculants they do have a short shelf life, so use them as soon as you get them to your garden. Now I shouldn’t have to mention this, but it comes up every summer. TURN OFF YOUR SEEDLING HEAT MAT! Just because that heat mat speeds up your cuttings in winter and spring doesn’t mean you should use it during hot weather. These heat mats will increase temperatures by 10 to 20 degrees, so if your room is at 75ºF already a heat mat could create a 95ºF cloning environment, which isn’t a cloning environment at all—it’s a clone killing zone! Remember, it’s not about warmer or cooler; it’s about the correct temperature. To sum it all up, cloning machines need 72°F water to promote beneficial microorganisms, but they will still function at slightly higher temperatures if you use a sterilizing product. Starter plugs require temperatures in the mid 70s, and the most diverse blend of beneficial bacteria and fungi will result in the best possible root mass. So crank up the AC, pour yourself some lemonade and get cracking with cuttings. Happy gardening! MY

110

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

111

112

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

113

GROWING FOR HEALTH

Iron Nutrition in Plants

by Guy Sela

The best nutrient for the job is rarely the easiest for your plants to find. Iron deficiency is a limiting factor of plant growth. Iron is present at high quantities in soils, but its availability to plants is usually very low, and therefore iron deficiency is a common problem. Plants can uptake iron in its oxidized forms such as Fe2+ (ferrous form) and Fe3+ (ferric form), but although most of the iron on the earth crust is in the form of Fe3+, the Fe2+ form is physiologically more significant for plants. This form is relatively soluble, but is readily oxidized to Fe3+, which then precipitates. Fe3+ is insoluble in neutral and high pH, making iron unavailable to plants in alkaline and in calcareous soils. Furthermore, in these types of soil, iron readily combines with phosphates, carbonates, calcium, magnesium and hydroxide ions.

114

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

Managing iron deficiencies

When iron deficiency is identified, it can be treated by applying a foliar spray of iron, but the best course of action is of course prevention.Therefore, the grower should identify the real cause of the deficiency and treat it, in order to prevent the problem from occurring in the future. Often iron deficiency does not indicate insufficient iron supply. It may also be related to various conditions that may affect iron availability. For example: carbonate levels in the soil, salinity, soil moisture, low temperature, concentration of other elements (e.g., competitive microelements, phosphorus, calcium) etc.

Iron uptake

Plants use various iron uptake mechanisms. One of these is the chelation mechanismâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the plant releases compounds

called siderophores that bind iron and enhance its solubility. This mechanism also involves bacteria. Another mechanism involves the release of protons (H+) and reductants by the plant roots, to lower pH levels in root zone. The result is increased iron solubility. In this respect, choice of the form of nitrogen fertilizer is significant. Ammonium nitrogen increases proton release by roots, thus lowering pH and facilitating iron uptake. Nitrate nitrogen enhances the release of hydroxide ions that increase pH in the root zone and counteract efficient iron uptake. New roots and root hairs are more active in iron uptake, therefore, it is imperative to maintain a healthy active root system. Any factor interfering with root development interferes with iron uptake.

Iron fertilizers

Iron can be applied as ferrous sulfate or in a chelated form.

Ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) contains about 20 per cent

iron. This fertilizer is inexpensive and is mainly used for foliar spraying. Applied to soil, it is often ineffective, especially in pH above 7.0, because its iron quickly transforms to Fe3+ and precipitates as one of the iron oxides.

Iron chelates

Chelates are compounds that stabilize metal ions (in this case iron) and protect them from oxidation and precipitation. Iron chelates consist of three components: • Fe3+ ions Acomplex, such as EDTA, DTPA, EDDHA, amino acids, humic-fulvic acids, citrate. • Sodium (Na+) or ammonium (NH4+) ions Different chelates hold iron ions in different strengths at different pH levels. They also defer in their susceptibility to iron replacement by competitive ions. For example, at high concentrations, calcium or magnesium ions may replace the chelated metal ion. Fe-EDTA - This iron chelate is stable at pH below 6.0. Above pH of 6.5, nearly 50 per cent of the iron is unavailable. Therefore this chelate is ineffective in alkaline soils. This chelate also has high affinity to calcium, so it is advised not to use it in calcium-rich soils or water. Note that EDTA is a very stable chelate of micro-elements, other than iron, even in high pH levels. Fe-DTPA - this iron chelate is stable in pH levels of up to 7.0, and is not as susceptible to iron replacement by calcium. Fe-EDDHA - this chelate is stable at pH levels as high as 11.0, but it is also the most expensive iron chelate available. MY

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

115

116

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

117

Think Locally Act Neighborly

Open your eyes to the negative realities of a global food system and start supporting local food producers today; or better, yet, become a local food producer. We’re talking about local businesses, including local food producers, and neighborly means helping out your neighbors, as well as your neighborhood...and dangit, help yourself out too while you’re at it. Who knew going local could be so beneficial?

The Good Supporting local food growers and processors, is a good thing all around. It supports local farmers who (lucky for us) make up one of the highest concentrations of sustainable growers in the country. It sustains our local economy by cycling money within our community instead of channeling it to suppliers across the country or overseas. It minimizes the consumption of fossil fuels from transporting food. 118

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Think Locally and Act Neighborly

It allows sustainable farming to be financially viable (the biggest obstacle any farmer faces today). It increases harvest diversity and a wider, seasonal selection for you to choose from. It does wonders for a healthy food supply and environment (untainted food, fresh water, fertile soil, biodiversity, untainted oceans, the list goes on). It creates incentive for more farms to transition to sustainable and organic methods.

have anything we want at any time of the year. Berries in the winter? Butternut squash in the summer? You got it. In the United States, more food is imported than exported.

The Ugly

Conglomeration

Long distances, more middlemen, more fossil fuels

All this in addition to the aesthetic of human, face-to-face interactions!

A few agricultural businesses are booming, with 60 companies controlling the majority of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food supply, and eight food conglomerates controlling the 38 largest organic businesses. With an international market and fewer food suppliers, the food transport network has turned into a type of FedEx model, with fresh produce traveling an average of 1,500 to 2,500 miles to reach your plate.

The Bad

Government subsidies

Some of these qualities of our current global food supply may seem good, but...

The U.S. government continues its current farm subsidies program, which not only allocates money to a few select crops, but notoriously fosters conglomeration and benefits farms the most when assistance is needed the least.

Anything, all the time With global food trade, we can now

120

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

When you look at how the bad manifests itself, you can see just how unsustainable (and downright unattractive) our food system is.

When your food travels an average of 1,500 to 2,500 miles and seven to 14 days from farm to plate, that means more steps and more middlemen between the grower and you, leaving U.S.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

121

Think Locally and Act Neighborly

farmers with an average of 7¢ to 20¢ for every dollar paid for their final product. Rural communities are now the most impoverished sector in the U.S. Not to mention the enormous quantities of fossil fuels used to package, refrigerate and transport the distance. A Global SocialVenture study found that for every million we spend annually on locally-produced food, we preventover 10 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

Survival of the biggest Vertically integrated agribusinesses also contribute to the economic decline of rural communities. Large food companies have financial reserves to set commodity prices below market value, and smaller, conscientious farmers are continually put out of business. This trend is effectively transforming the agricultural

122

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

landscape to large, regionally-managed farm corporations. Instead of cycling money within a self-sufficient community, money is drained off to distant suppliers. We no longer operate as a neighborhood community; instead we “sell to a remote, complex food chain of which [farmers] are a tiny part— and are paid accordingly.” (Halweil, Eat Here) These effects apply to farms in less developed countries as well, as shown in a recent NY Times story showing the struggles of family farms in Central America against well-endowed food conglomerates.

Lower quality and environmental damage Logistically, it’s impossible for so few agribusinesses to farm ecologically. Fostering healthy soil and minimizing environmental damage requires thoughtful, integrated methods. (Spraying pesticides by airplane and GMO seeds don’t cut it). The number of farmers is shrinking and the acres of land for which they are responsible are growing. When the only goal is maximum output, conventional farming (including chemical pesticides, genetically-engineered seeds, animal antibiotics and mono-cropping) proves to be the only feasible option. The amount of toxic runoff into our groundwater and oceans as well as the animal waste produced from overcrowded factory farms is staggering.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

123

Think Locally and Act Neighborly

Shrinking self-reliance With global food trade, food processors can buy from wherever is cheapest. Foreign growers are often less expensive than in the States, so processors turn to international sources. Even the U.S. is increasingly dependent on foreign food suppliers, despite our prolific land and resources. As the world is supplied by fewer food companies, fewer types of crops are grown.Varieties are chosen for durability and universal appeal. Fifty years ago, regions had distinct food varieties and flavors reflecting each unique terrain and culture.Today, agribusiness encourages countries to produce fewer, standard global cash crops that can be sold in bulk for export to fewer processors and packers. “The combination of cheap food from overseas and the consolidation of domestic production compromises [each country’s] ability to feed itself.” (Wilkins,“Think Globally, Eat Locally”, NY Times).

Compromised food security The global food system’s dysfunction is obvious when you look at countries that have historically sustained themselves are now dependent on others. Many, including the recently departed Secretary of Health & Human Services, have wondered why terrorists haven’t attacked our food system.

124

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

125

Think Locally and Act Neighborly

Not a thought that normally comes to mind, but it brings to light the vulnerability of our current supply network. The FDA will only inspect 100,000 of the five million containers of U.S. food imported.

Self-defeating agricultural policy The U.S. government has awarded $130 billion in farm subsidies since 1995, with 70 per cent to the top 10 per cent largest producers. Over half the industry, predominately small- and medium-sized farms, receive nothing. Ironically, farm income has had a 40 per cent increase in the past two years and yet, during that time, government contributions to the largest growers have doubled. Keith Collins, chief economist for the Agriculture Department, confirmed that subsidies are not necessarily correlated with the natural ebb and flow of supply. Amazingly, recipient farms do not even need to be currently growing one of the qualifying export crops (cotton, rice, soybeans, corn, wheat, sunflowers, canola, barley, peanuts, flax, oats) or have lost money from a declining market. So, a farm may not have even harvested that year, or they may have not even felt the effects of a market decrease, but as long as the price declined at some point during that year, they can collect $300,000 or more. Again, our current system encourages large agribusinesses to produce (or at least historically produce) an overabundance of single cash crops for export, while ensuring the decline of locally-focused, smaller producers and their biodiverse harvests.

Organics turned ugly A common misconception about organics is that it all comes from local producers. In reality, consolidation and buy-outs are becoming more common as with conventional agriculture. Again, big businesses eager to capture a piece of the booming market are buying smaller companies as well as familyowned farms. And, the same negative effects from conglomeration unfortunately apply. Also, when organic farms are too large—like conventional farms—it’s simply impossible to provide the same care to the soil, water runoff and healthy ecosystems. Large farms typically adopt the less stringent USDA organic labeling, and many practice mono-cropping (which degrades soil fertility) or neglect more conscientious runoff and waste treatment (which increases toxins leaching into waterways). Obviously, organic agribusinesses have less of an environmental impact than conventional, but supporting local, organic farms is by far the healthiest for you, the soil and our fresh water supply. 126

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

What can you do? The easiest way to address these issues is with your buying dollars. Support local growers and locally-owned and sourced food companies. You know it’s all good! 1. Learn what’s in season 2. Buy locally-produced foods Buy direct from farmers. Or, support restaurants and stores that buy direct from farmers. Many now publicize where they purchase their produce and meats. If yours don’t, just ask. 3. Support small, family farmers 4. Preserve local food heritage 5. Grow your own food in your backyard or a community garden. 6. Learn more Organics, sustainability, local communities and economies are all intrinsically related. 7. Support organizations making change MY Reprinted with permission from OmOrganics, www.omorganics.org

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

127

Avant-Gardening

Heritage and Heirloom Food for Thought by Michael Bloch Taste the difference of your fruits and vegetables with heritage and heirloom seeds. Have you noticed how tomatoes don’t taste the same as they used to? Have you experienced strawberries that seem to be just insipid bags of water? As we get older, our taste buds certainly do get less sensitive, but there is a more insidious reason for fruit and vegetables not tasting anywhere near as good as they once did. They’ve been engineered not to. Taste appears to be the least important factor to the companies that produce the seeds for most of the world’s food. Even the fruit and vegetables we grow in our home veggie gardens don’t stack up against what we remember as the seeds come from the same stock as mass agriculture. But by using heirloom and heritage seeds, you can return to the delightful tastes of yesteryear.

Extinct fruits and vegetables In the USA, only five per cent of the apple varieties that existed 200 years ago still remain. We are basically driving many of our food resources to extinction on purpose. Market control, aesthetics and shelf life reign over diversity and taste these days. Hybrid varieties are developed by companies for pest resistance, fast growth and uniformity, and then marketed to such a degree that traditional varieties lose popularity and disappear. They are also bred for easy machine harvesting, long distance transport and refrigeration. The seeds you buy at your nursery, even the fruit and vegetables you purchase from organic farms, may be these hybrid varieties. Another disturbing issue is just a handful of 128

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

companies control the majority of the world’s seed production and as a result, farmers and home gardeners are basically held ransom.

Less seed diversity threatens food security Without genetic diversity being maintained, food production is at risk of epidemics and infestations. For example, over 70 per cent of the corn acreage grown in the U.S.A. was planted with just six varieties of corn back in the early 1970s. When a new strain of southern leaf blight fungus emerged in 1970-71, many corn fields across the country were wiped out. An estimated 250 million bushels of corn were lost to the blight in Illinois alone.

Heirloom and heritage varieties If you grow fruits and vegetables at home, there is something you can do to get away from the major players and grow the truly tasty vegetables of yesteryear—after all, isn’t that one of the reasons we establish home gardens in the first place? Consider cultivating heirloom and heritage varieties. Heirlooms are open-pollinated plant varieties. If the seeds are saved, they will produce the same variety. Hybrids are the result of a cross between various varieties. Seeds from hybrids often do not sprout and if they do, the resulting plant can experience problems as they begin to revert to the traits of the parent plant used in hybridization. Heirloom and heritage varieties are usually considered those that are at least 50 years old, although some vintage varieties have a traceable history dating back hundreds or thousands of years. Heirloom varieties do have good disease resistance and the yields are often higher than hybrids. Heirloom varieties also tend to produce over a longer period each season, so there are fewer problems of waste if you don’t have people to give away surplus to. By growing heirloom and heritage varieties, not only will you have tastier produce, you’ll be playing an important role in maintaining genetic biodiversity. I really wish I had known about heirloom and vintage seeds when we had our last vegetable garden; while the produce we grew was nice to have, it still didn’t taste anything like the veggies my dad grew in the ‘70s. I look forward to establishing my next garden growing nothing but heirloom varieties. MY Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

129

Vitamin P:

Plasma Lamp Technology by Philip McIntosh

As if you didn’t have enough choices for grow room lighting. Plasma lamps are getting positive reviews from the industry and independent researchers. Read on for a description of plasma, and the advantages of this popular technology. > >

130

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Plasma

Before asking the question ‘what is a plasma lamp?’ it seems useful to first ask—‘what is a plasma?’ According to WolframAlpha (the computational knowledge engine at www.wolframalpha.com) a plasma is “a fourth state of matter distinct from solid or liquid or gas and present in stars or fusion reactors; a gas becomes a plasma when it is heated until the atoms lose all their electrons, leaving a highly electrified collection of nuclei and free electrons.” That’s exotic stuff.

The modern plasma lamp is a descendant of the electrode-less lamps first demonstrated by Nikola Tesla in the late 1800s. The temperature of a plasma found inside a star or fusion reactor can reach millions of degrees Fahrenheit, and obviously that kind of temperature could not be maintained in any feasible grow light. The basic structure of the plasma is the same in both, though; it’s just at a lower pressure in the grow light, so the temperature is a lot more manageable.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

131

Vitamin P: Plasma Lamp Technology

Plasma lamps are available for use in a variety of applications— such as building, parking lot and street illumination, as well as specialty and horticultural lighting—and there are several companies currently active in the marketing of these products.

An ample heat sink is provided to carry heat away from the back of the fixture so that the temperature in front of the light is actually quite low. Principle of operation

The modern plasma lamp is a descendant of the electrode-less lamps first demonstrated by Nikola Tesla in the late 1800s. Electrode-less lamps are excited by electrical energy introduced from outside the lamp enclosure, unlike more familiar lamps in which power is passed directly to an electrode mounted inside a bulb. Although the exact construction of a plasma light varies from one manufacturer to another, the principle of operation is the same. There are three basic components: first, the emitter, which includes the bulb and its internal components; second, a radio frequency (RF) source; and third, a power supply and control circuitry. A functional grow light also includes a reflector, UV shielding, RF shielding (to prevent interference with computing and communication equipment) and a heat sink. A plasma bulb contains either a proprietary gas mixture and a metal halide or an inert gas mixture and a dab of sulfur. In one popular bulb variety, an RF electric field is set up around and focused toward the bulb through a dielectric (non-conducting) waveguide. The energy of the electric field ionizes the gas, creating a plasma. The plasma in turn vaporizes the metal halide (or sulfur), which glows with a bright white light. Spectral analysis of the emitted light shows that it compares favorably to natural sunlight over the range of visible wavelengths, although the spectrum of the lamp will differ depending on manufacturer models and dimming. Since plasmas have a reputation for existing at rather high temperatures, one might think that a plasma lamp would get very hot—maybe even hotter than a high intensity discharge (HID) lamp. This is not the case, however: an ample heat sink is provided to carry heat away from the back of the fixture so that the temperature in front of the light is actually quite low. 132

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

133

Vitamin P: Plasma Lamp Technology

When first examining a plasma lamp you might be surprised by how small the bulb is.

While the UV output of sulfur plasma fixtures is quite low, metal halide plasma lights do generate a certain amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In one fixture, a transparent shield in front of the bulb absorbs the harmful short wavelength UV-C rays, blocks most of the UV-B rays and lets the UV-A ones pass through.

Advantages of plasma lights

Plasma lights have characteristics that set them apart from other sources of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). When first examining a plasma lamp you might be surprised by how small the bulb is—a plasma bulb is tiny compared to a typical HID lamp or fluorescent tube. A plasma bulb is actually closer in size to a light emitting diode (LED) than any standard type of lamp, its small size providing excellent luminous efficiency.

Some important features of plasma lamps include:

• Long bulb life—expected be up to six years, with little change in output intensity or spectral characteristics. • Plasma lights use up to 50 per cent less energy than other light sources, drawing only a few amps per unit. • Low heat output means lamps can be placed close to plants. • No orientation constraints. Lights can be mounted in any direction, with no reduction in bulb life expectancy. Plasma lamps should be mounted according to manufacturer’s specifications, however, since some drivers do mandate specific mounting limitations. • Plasma lamps are dimmable and can be operated from 20 to 100 per cent of full output. • Lamp power supplies can easily be controlled remotely. • Fast turn-on and restart time.

134

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

The temperature of a plasma found inside a star or fusion reactor can reach millions of degrees Fahrenheit.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

135

Vitamin P: Plasma Lamp Technology

What about cost? Plasma lights are significantly more expensive up front than comparable HID lights—a single unit runs about $1,400, compared to several hundred dollars for an HID system. However, considering the savings in bulb replacement and electricity consumption, the total cost of ownership over a period of years is competitive for plasma lighting.

Considering the savings in bulb replacement and electricity consumption, the total cost of ownership over a period of years is competitive for plasma lighting. Plant response to plasma lighting

Cucumber plants grown for 13 days using a quality brand name of plasma AS-spectrum lamps achieved a dry weight 2.3 times greater than plants grown under fluorescent tubes.

Published data on plant growth under plasma lamps has shown promising results so far. In a paper published in The Journal of Experimental Botany, researchers reported that cucumber plants grown for 13 days using a quality brand name of plasma ASspectrum lamps achieved a dry weight 2.3 times greater than plants grown under fluorescent tubes (FT), and 1.6 times greater than plants grown under high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps. The AS-spectrum plants were also four to five times taller than the FT and HPS-grown plants. This was a relatively short experiment, however, and it did not provide data for a full life cycle and fruiting of the cucumbers. Additional research in 2010 showed that cucumber fruit of “standard size” were produced in 10 fewer days than is normally achieved in commercial cultivation. Research conducted by the TNO Horticulture Field Lab (an independent research organization in the Netherlands) tested several lamps in 2010—including plasma lamps—and obtained variable results, but did note excellent fruit quality of one of the plasma brand of lights. In 2011, researchers at Colorado State University grew basil, snapdragon, tomato and zinnia using either HPS or plasma lights. The lamp heights were adjusted so that all plants received similar levels of PAR, with a supplemental light period of 18 hours per day in addition to natural light in a greenhouse. Snapdragon and tomato showed slightly greater dry weights under plasma, while basil and zinnia showed slightly less. In general, though, there was little difference between treatments.

A grower’s perspective

Sean Coker of Beneficial Biologics in Arcata, California has been conducting experiments comparing the results obtained with plasma, metal halide (MH) and HPS lamps. He has grown a variety of plants, including basil, tomatoes, squash, various spices and several varieties of flowers. In his research, Coker positioned plasma lights as close as eight inches from the plants with no detrimental heat effects, and he reports that light spread and penetration into the canopy has 136

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

137

Vitamin P: Plasma Lamp Technology

Plants have evolved under a full spectrum. It’s what they not only desire but need to reach their fullest potential.

Could the era of the red and blue bulb be ending? Probably not yet, since it takes time for a new technology to be proven and become established, although the cost of plasma lights will no doubt come down as the market grows and more manufacturers get in the game. Coker sums it up this way, “Plants have evolved under a full spectrum. It’s what they not only desire but need to reach their fullest potential.Yes, one can take an isolated portion of the spectrum, like blue or red, power up the lights and make them work, but a much lower-power full spectrum can work just as well.” MY

been good. In discussing one plasma model he says, “The lamp is compact, but the built-in hood is designed to spread the light across a four by four area quite evenly. In our store we have three units in operation for people to see. Two of the plasma units are used to produce high-quality basil that we sell to a local Italian restaurant for making pesto. The rate of growth under these lights is superb. Another light is used for a full four by four table of tomatoes. The plants grow fast, have copious flowers and set fruit in about three weeks.” In talking to Sean it is clear that he is sold on plasma lights. “We’re amazed at the performance of the lights. Everyone who comes in the store is amazed as well. Everyone who has bought a light has come back for more, and that’s the best marketing of all.”

References

Anonymous, (2010), “Photosynthetically active radiation tests cucumber plants, week one to 11”, Greenport Campus/TNO Horticulture Field Lab, <http:// www.plasma-i.com/plasma-par-test.htm> accessed June 6, 2011 Baars, A. (2010) “Cucumber growth under the new standard horti-mix plasma bulb shows excellent results”, <http://www.plasma-i.com/cucumbers.htm> accessed June 6, 2011 Hogewoning et al., (2010) “An artificial solar spectrum substantially alters plant development compared with usual climate room irradiance spectra”, Journal of Experimental Botany, March 4, 2010, <http://jxb.oxfordjournals.org/ content/early/2010/03/04/jxb.erq005.full> accessed June 5, 2011 Luxim Corporation, <http://www.luxim.com> accessed June 3, 2011 Newman, S. (2011), “Light emitting plasma diode lights for growing plants in greenhouses”, CSU Extension Greenhouse Advisor, <http://ghadvisor. blogspot.com/2011/03/plasma-emitting-diode-lights-for.html> accessed June 7, 2011 Plasma International, GmbH <http://www.plsmi-i.com> accessed June 3, 2011

138

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

139

TIPS & TRICKS A How to Guide to Grafting by Dr. Mike Nichols

A strong start makes success more likely and productivity greater.

Grafting is an important technique used to control plant vigor for fruit trees. It provides a means to establish specific varieties (clones) of the majority of fruit trees that don’t breed true from seed and cannot easily form roots from cuttings. Grafting also plays a role in vegetable production, particularly (but not solely) in controlled environment agriculture. Obviously, it is necessary to sow two sets of seeds, namely the rootstock and scion varieties. Experience has suggested that the rootstock should be sown several days before the scion, because not only is germination a little more erratic, the seed also takes a little longer to germinate. The ideal size for grafting is when the stems of both scion and rootstock are 1.5 millimeters in diameter. Almost certainly this will mean some need for grading the

140

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

rootstock seedlings after emergence, to ensure that all the rootstocks in a tray are the same diameter. Growing the seedlings in plug trays makes it possible to grade,

“In terms of productivity, it appears that grafting will not only increase yield but also the more vigorous root systems might also increase water efficiency and nutrient absorption.” but this must be done at least two days prior to grafting, to give the plants time to get over the check. If the rootstock is germinated at 77°F, it takes about 17 days to reach the 1.5 millimeter diameter. The growth of the scion can be controlled with temperature, to ensure that that the

scion and rootstock are at the correct size at the same time. It is essential that the grafting area is hygienic and all equipment is clean. Knives should be disinfected regularly to avoid the possible spread of viruses. The first stage of grafting is to remove the heads of the rootstock and throw away the heads to ensure that they do not get mixed up with the scion. The cut is made at a 45 degree angle one inch above the pot. Too low and there is the risk of scion rooting; too high and the graft might become too heavy and fall over. The grafting clips are then attached to the rootstock. The scion is prepared by cutting the seedling heads to a length of a ½ inch. Again, a 45 degree angle cut is made.

This provides the maximum possible surface area for the rootstock and scion fusion. The scion is then inserted into the grafting clip until the cut surfaces of the rootstock and scion cut make full contact. The grafted seedlings must remain in the high humidity environment (mist propagation) for at least four days to ensure the scion remains turgid and the graft takes. Then, over several days the humidity should be slowly reduced to glasshouse levels. Normally, full ventilation should be possible after day seven. It is not necessary to remove the grafting clips; they fall off naturally. In fact, removing them by hand could damage the plants.

Rootstocks vary in their vegetative/ generative characteristics, and it is really a question of selecting the appropriate rootstock for your scion/production system/planting date. Where vigor is desirable then a highly vegetative rootstock should be selected, but if growing a crop into the winter, a generative rootstock might be favored. One of the advantages of a vegetative rootstock is that it introduces the opportunity to grow two or more main stems to a single root system, with a consequential reduction in propagation costs. This might almost negate the additional cost of producing grafted seedlings. The bonus, then, would be a potentially more productive plant that would resist soilborne pathogens and grow better during cool conditions.

Advantages to grafting: • improved productivity due to resistance to disease • grafted plants (via the rootstock) are more tolerant to poor water quality (salinity) • grafted plants can tolerate low temperatures The take-home lesson from this is that grafting has the potential to markedly increase productivity, but there is probably a need to match the rootstock to the scion for best results. In terms of productivity, it appears that grafting will not only increase yield but also the more vigorous root systems might also increase water efficiency and n utrient absorption. MY

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

141

142

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

143

144

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

145

146

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget by Dr. Benjamin Grimes

Hydroponics How difficult is hydroponics? A basic hydroponic system is as easy to take care of as a goldfish tank. Like any system, the larger and more complex it is, the more difficult it is to set up and maintain. Hydroponic systems have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of hydroponics are: • less space used • shorter growing time • conserves water • easy to control pests, weeds and diseases • higher yields

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

147

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

Good News for Beginners So how difficult is a hydroponic garden to set up? The real answer depends on the gardener’s experience, the size of the system, and ultimately, production goals. Thankfully there is a wealth of resources available for the beginner, and though the learning curve may be steep, it is far from formidable. There seems to be no end to hydroponic system designs, and each manufacturer claims their design is the best. The reality is that the best hydroponic system is the one that works for you.

“Make use of what you have before buying more than you need.” -Grandma Living through the depression changed the way an entire generation approached life. Creativity and backyard engineering took the place of disposable income. The modern world has forgotten much of what it learned just 80 years ago, but new generations of gardeners have found new and ingenious ways to feed our world.

148

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

“Thankfully there is a wealth of resources available for the beginner, and though the learning curve may be steep, it is far from formidable.”

Bathtubs They’re in almost every home and thousands are being thrown into landfills every year. The bathtub is one of the largest planters that can be obtained for free. It requires cheap, off-the-shelf parts, and claw-foot tubs are really neat looking. One of the greatest advantages of using a bathtub comes from its depth. A bathtub filled with perlite is an ideal environment for growing hydroponic carrots, potatoes and other tuberous vegetables. The tub drains directly to either a reservoir or sump where nutrients can be recirculated, and input can be as simple as a hose or pipe with holes drilled near each plant. The most expensive part of this system is the water pump; a lot of lift is needed, but rate of flow can be minimal.

Billboards The advertisements that litter the sides of highways everywhere are printed on heavy plastic tarp. These are black

“For the beginner, pre-mixed chemical nutrients require the least amount of work and are the most forgiving.”

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

149

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

“The bathtub is one of the largest planters that can be obtained for free, requires cheap off the shelf parts and claw-foot tubs are really neat looking.”

on one side and white on the other. While there are various sizes, the most common seem to be about 20 feet tall and 60 feet long. Wood, straw bales or even trenches dug into the ground can all be used to give shape to your garden. Once your layout is constructed pull the plastic (face down) over the form and fill with water. This system is durable, can be recirculated by a single pump and can easily be adapted for use with aeroponic and fogponic systems.

Pumps Cheap electric pumps can wear fast and cost a small fortune, both initially and over time due to the cost of electricity. An alternative to electric pumps is air. Air compressors are common, many are self regulated and a single large reservoir only needs to be changed once per day (or continuously by wind) to keep your water aerated and flowing. Air-powered pumps are easy to construct using parts from your local onestop-shop hydroponic store or hardware store and are usually quite inexpensive.

150

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Venturi pumps are common and use a pressure differential to move water. These pumps also mix air with water, adding aeration. Percolation pumps are somewhat less common. They consist of nothing more than a compressed air line mounted to the base of a submerged pipe. Water flows into the submerged pipe and the air forces it up and out the top of the pipe. Both venturi and percolation pumps require a high volume of air at low to mid pressure to achieve lift. Float pumps are the least common and require very little air volume, but require high pressure to work. Float pumps work like a snorkel with a ball on the top; as water flows into a reservoir that is being aerated it slowly fills until it reaches the top. At the top a float ball plugs the input and the air pressure builds until the water in the reservoir is pushed out through a tube that goes to the top of the system. As soon as the water escapes to a level that depressurizes the reservoir, the float ball falls open and the process begins again.

Maximum Yield USAâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;August 2011

151

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

“Many gardeners, as their experience increases, move from chemical to organic nutrients, and at the peak of their experience begin to mix nutrients for themselves.”

Vented hoods and drafts High intensity discharge (HID) lighting has been the gold standard for indoor gardeners for over half a century. Recent developments in electronics have led to a new revolution in electronic (or digital) ballasts. But like their predecessors, HID lighting produces a lot of heat. Heat management is always a concern of indoor gardeners, and the time as well as energy spent managing heat should not be taken lightly. The British thermal unit (BTU) is the measure of energy that is required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. BTUs are commonly used to size and select air conditioners and heat pumps for indoor gardens. What is often not known, however, is what size of cooling unit is needed. Common HID lights come in 400, 600, 1,000 and now 1,500 watt models. Each light produces a substantial amount of BTUs. The heating capacities of the bulbs are 1,365; 2,047; 3,412; and 5,118 BTUs respectively. To offer a bit of a comparison on how much heat you can expect, assuming a bare bulb in a sealed room, one 1,500 watt bulb will produce the same amount of heat as a Milkhouse heater (fan and coil) set on high. That’s a lot of heat! A garden containing four of those bulbs would require an AC or heat pump rated to at least 21,000 BTUs and use about 6.2 kilowatts (kW). This means that just turning on your lights for one hour will use 37.2 kW and 12 hours would use about 446.4 kW; that’s 13,392 kW per month at $0.04/kWh = $535.68! And you still haven’t even plugged in a fan. 152

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

153

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

So how do you save a small fortune in electricity? Vented hoods provide the reflection needed to maximize light reaching plants, and move the heated air from the lights out of the garden area. While there are several methods for venting, the most energy efficient is commonly called atmosphere-to-atmosphere; this is where the ducting for the hoods takes in air from outside the garden and disperses it outside the garden.

“A hydroponic garden doesn’t need to be pretty to be functional, and the supplies to build a basic garden may already be within an arm’s reach.”

154

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Draft Indoor gardeners spend hundreds of dollars per fan to purchase high intensity air movers. These fans create high pressure differentials that force air through ducts. A more cost effective method of moving air through your hoods, that has been used for thousands of years, is augmented with inexpensive induction fans, Creating a draft can use very little energy to move a lot of heat away from HID lights. A draft is nothing more than air naturally moving upward along a temperature differential. A common example of a draft being used is the chimney of a wood stove or fireplace; hot air rises within the chimney away from the colder air in the surrounding room. The

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

155

Outdoor Hydroponics on a Budget

principal of the draft can be harnessed for cooling HID lights. Ducting must enter from atmosphere near the ground and exhaust as high as possible after passing through reflective hoods. In this situation, the higher the better really is true for helping your draft move heat, but a personal minimum that I follow is: inlet rise equals exhaust rise. Augmenting the draft is necessary for almost every system, especially when there is insufficient rise to create a strong cooling draft. The use of induction fans is the least expensive and the quietest option for augmenting a natural draft. These fans are often rated for six inch ducting at 250 cubic feet per minute (CFM) or eight inch ducting at 500 CFM. Either option usually costs less than $40.

The benefits Depending on the individual ducting setup, a basic draft venting system can easily remove 50 per cent of the heat produced by

HID lighting. Using the example from earlier, 50 per cent translates to the removal of about 10,500 BTUs at a savings of about three kW per hour of operation: 1,080 kW/month (over one megawatt) and no need to buy fans that cost hundreds of dollars each. The next step to saving hundreds of dollars in electricity involves the use of staggered crop lighting, a topic covered in detail in the June 2010 issue of Maximum Yield.

Nutrients For the beginner, pre-mixed chemical nutrients require the least amount of work and are the most forgiving. Organic nutrients on the other hand offer a more complete nutrient base for plants, but are certainly not for the inexperienced. Many gardeners, as their experience increases, move from chemical to organic nutrients, and at the peak of their experience begin to mix nutrients for themselves. Mixing organic nutrients requires knowledge of beneficial fungus, micro-organisms, and dissolvable salts.

In Summary A hydroponic garden doesn’t need to be pretty to be functional, and the supplies to build a basic garden may already be within an arm’s reach. Ingenuity can be the difference between a small fortune and nearly nothing being spent on your hydroponic project. MY 156

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

157

YOU TELL US

Maximum Yield talks to Kent Southard, president and CEO of Carolina North, MFG, about Rope Rachet applications, safety features and superior excellence.

Maximum Yield (MY): What indoor gardening applications can the Rope Ratchet be used for? Kent Southard: Rope Ratchet® Light Hangers have a wide variety of uses for both the indoor and outdoor gardening enthusiast that include hanging lights, filters, fans and other equipment that requires raising and lowering. Basically the Rope Ratchet is a well made, easy-to-use, selflocking ratchet system that can be used to secure almost any item that needs to be tied down, secured, hoisted or that requires raising and lowering.use, feature-rich advancements, all for a price that doesn’t break the bank. MY: What various product designs do you have available and how do they uniquely benefit gardeners? Kent: We have a full line of Rope Ratchet products that may be used by the gardener for the purposes of tying down, securing and hoisting a multitude of items. Our standard line features ⅛, 3/16, ¼, ⅜ and ½ inch Rope Ratchets that have holding weights from 75 to 500 pounds. In our Light Hanger Ratchet line we have ¼ and ⅛ inch models with our biggest seller being the ⅛ inch size.The working load of the ⅛ inch model is 75 pounds. which is strong enough for even the largest lights.The ¼ inch size has a 150 pound working load for heavier items. Both of our Light Hanger Ratchets come with a carabineer hook for added security. If there are even heavier

158

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

items that require hoisting we have, as noted, Rope Ratchet models with 250 and 500 pound working loads.

well as ours, or last as long.Why skimp on a hoisting product that is responsible for securing a very expensive piece of equipment? None of the other makes are as strong as the Rope Ratchet brand hangers.We also use a carabineer hook for added security on our Light Hanger models. In addition, every Rope Ratchet automatically locks in place as you raise the item and has a secure, easy-to-use release lever to assist in the lowering of the item.We also use only solid braided polyester or polypropylene rope that is tough, strong and lasts long. MY: What design elements have been used to ensure superior excellence and ease-of-use? Kent: As noted, we use tough glass-filled nylon plus internal metal wheels and levers. For ease-of-use, the rope can easily be fed through the ratchet, which makes adjustments much easier. Plus it’s easier to change the rope length and the selflocking mechanism ensures easy hoisting.

MY: What safety features have been manufactured into the Rope Ratchet design? Kent: First, every Rope Ratchet is made of tough, quality parts. Our housings are all made of heavy duty #6 – 33 per cent glass-filled nylon while the internal parts— the wheel and lever—are metal. Some models on the market today use all plastic parts, which obviously won’t hold up as

MY: What multifunctional purposes does the Rope Ratchet serve in addition to gardening applications? Kent: The Rope Ratchet has been on the market for over 15 years. Its original design function was for tiedowns in the hardware, sports, outdoor, transportation and automotive markets. It is such a handy, well designed, time saving product that we have expanded into other

markets and uses.The Rope Ratchet Light Hanger was a natural next step for us.We also manufacture the Hang ‘Em High Hoist, which can be used for hoisting heavier items up to 250 pounds.We have a wide variety of ratchet products that solve a multitude of problems gardeners face on a daily basis both inside and outside and for transporting products. MY: What instructions can you recommend to growers to ensure safety and ease-of-use? Kent: First, always make sure you are using a patented Rope Ratchet® branded item.There are other inferior Rope Ratchet knock-offs that don’t use metal components or glass filled-nylon housings. Those units do not have the working load limits or ease-of-use that a Rope Ratchet brand does.When using the Rope Ratchet we recommend that you check the unit and rope before hoisting anything and ensure you do not exceed the working load limit of each ratchet. We put a great deal of effort in the design and manufacture of every Rope Ratchet product to ensure long, safe, satisfactory service. MY For more information please contact us at: Carolina North Mfg. 500 Indeneer Drive, Suite 9, Kernersville, NC 27284 Phone: 1-336-992-0082 Web: www.roperatchet.com Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

159

160

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

161

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Continued from 42

Quantum Growth Harnesses Nature’s Energy The Quantum Growth Series of products contain naturally-occurring microorganisms that help break down, hold and transport nutrients and water to the root zone, converting the nutrients 10 times faster than the plant can. Quantum Growth is the only biological, shelf stable liquid product on the market today that contains photosynthetic bacteria and other vegetative cultures with over 200 billon per gallon. There is no NPK, GMOs, growth inhibitors or two-part mixes, just pure beneficial bacteria for your garden. Quantum can be used in hydroponics or soil gardens. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information.

New Humboldt Superior Electronics Humboldt Superior Electronics (HSE) is a complete 600 watt, plug-andplay electronic lighting system that includes a non-remote Philips electronic ballast, HPS bulb and reflector. The HSE ballast runs on 240 volts but is engineered specifically to power a Philips Master GreenPower 400 volt electronic bulb. This bulb was specifically designed for horticulture and maximum PAR light. Additionally, the reflector’s octagonal design and depth ensure optimum crop uniformity and light penetration. Ensure your favorite plants are grown with equipment that optimizes efficiency, PAR spectrum and high micromole readings. Ask for it today from your Humboldt County Lights authorized retailer.

GrowoniX Unleashes Their New GXBP Booster Pump Commercial size water filtration just got affordable. The new GXBP booster pumps will double the pure water output for the GX600, GX100 and XLP models. Each GX booster pump features a low-pressure cutoff switch that turns off the motor in case of incoming water supply failure. The GXBP is available in an elegant patented chassis that mounts right to the GX600 or the GX1000. The pump chassis includes a vibration-dampening, non-marking wheel and a convenient carrying handle. More information can be found at your local hydroponics shop.

Sunleaves Worm Farm is a Fertilizer Factory for Gardeners The Sunleaves four-layer Worm Farm turns kitchen waste into rich, all-natural fertilizer that’s great for any garden. Red wiggler worms will eagerly devour gardener’s unwanted food scraps and other wastes. The bottom of the farm also houses a collection tray for worm tea. This unit, when used properly, is virtually odorless and can be used indoors all year or outdoors so long as the temperature remains between 50° and 85°F. Contact your local indoor/ outdoor gardening shop for more information.

162

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

163

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Introducing Black Magic Odor Barrier Bags by Gro Gro Gadgets Black Magic Odor Barrier Bags are custom-engineered to protect your crops from damaging light exposure. The thick material is puncture-resistant and retains moisture for short or long term storage. Black Magic Odor Barrier Bags are made from the highest quality food grade materials and manufactured at a medical grade facility in the USA. Black Magic Odor Barrier Bags are available in large (16 by 22 inches) and medium (10 by 18 inches). Black Magic Odor Barrier Bags are now available at hydroponic shops across the country.

Introducing the New Ecogrowwall The Ecogrowwall vertical system is more flexible, allowing growers to maximize space at an affordable price. The Ecogrowwall can be used alone or in combination with others and can also be combined back-to-back so it can adapt easily to any room size. We offer a wide range of parts (hooks, push cocks, crosses, water lines, water distribution systems, compression fittings and more) allowing you plenty of versatility for assembly. The Ecogrowwall gutter has a lip that prevents light from directly reaching the rockwool, which prevents the formation of algae in the lower walls. For more information contact your favorite indoor gardening store.

164

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

165

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Guru 300W Finisher The Guru 300 watt Finisher LED grow light is engineered to replace a 1,000 watt HPS, using six different wavelengths of LEDs. The only thing you will miss when switching over is your electricity bill. It covers 20 square feet of dense growing space and eliminates the need for ballasts and hoods. It will save you big—approximately $500 a year—and will last about seven years. Designed completely to maximize yields, the Guru 300 watt Finisher will leave your plants healthy and your harvest ripe. Check out your favorite hydro shop for more information.

New Sunleaves Tools Arrive Just in Time for Summer Sunleaves is proud to announce several new items that will help gardeners with their outdoor gardening this summer. Check out the all-in-one Sunleaves Digital four-way Soil Meter, great for testing pH levels, sunlight intensity, moisture levels and temperature. Sunleaves Steel Stakes and all-natural Bamboo Stakes are great for gardeners looking for more support for their plants. Both are extremely durable and handy for holding up vines and other top-heavy plants, or for marking off areas of the garden. Contact your local indoor/outdoor gardening shop for more information.

166

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

167

PRODUCT spotlight

Your guide to this month’s hottest items.

Lightspeed Flip 8 - Another Hydrotek Exclusive Heading up our newly revamped line of ballasts and controllers, the New Lightspeed Flip 8 lighting controller gives you cost savings and allows you to run eight lights from four ballasts, plus it works with ballasts plugged into any voltage. These units are heavy duty and built to last. Flip 8 can be used with any 120 volt timer but also comes with an optional 240 volt timer outlet. Made in Canada. For more information visit a hydroponics shop near you.

Protect Your Hydroponic Plants From Fungal Diseases With Actinovate Organic Fungicide Actinovate Organic Fungicide contains a high concentration of a patented beneficial microorganism (Streptomyces lydicus) in a 100 per cent watersoluble powder. When mixed with water, Actinovate protects hydroponic plants from fungal diseases caused by pathogens. Actinovate can also be used as a spray for leaf and foliar diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, black spot, Botrytis, Alternaria and others. Actinovate is OMRI Listed for use in organic gardens and made in the USA by Natural Industries. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information. MY

168

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

169

TALKING TALKINGSHOP SHOP

Bar

A North Valley Success Story by M.L. Hawk

AT A GLANCE Company: Bare Roots Hydro and Organic Gardening Owner: Bob and Gennifer Endy Location: 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, California, USA Phone: 1-530-244-2215 E-mail: info@barerootshydroponics.com web: barerootshydroponics.com

170 170 Maximum MaximumYield YieldUSA | August USA | August2011 2011

The owners of Bare Roots Hydro and Organic Gardening—Bob and Gennifer Endy—overcome a major business challenge and now their only problem is keeping up with the growth. Located in the tip of the NorthernValley of Bob knew early on that if he didn’t stock California, past one of the largest agriculthe best products, and plenty of them, tural basins in the customers would find world, is Bare other stores to get Roots Hydro what they needed. and Organic “We bought a small Gardening store with a small doing what it inventory. If we does best, helpwanted to survive we ing growers had to turn it into a succeed. one-stop shop.” “Our phiIn addition to losophy has a massive invenalways been tory, Bob stocks that the cushis employee base (From right to left) Co-Owners Bob Endy and Gennifer tomer has to with knowledgeable Endy, manager Travis Barber and employees Shaun Applehans, Mason Vasquez and Matthew Hawk make be successful,” workers who colup the Bare Roots’ Dream Team. says Bob Endy, lectively have years of who co-owns experience in growing Bare Roots with his wife Gennifer.“Our busiall kinds of plants.Whether it be a newbie ness does not depend on one sale. It depends with a bug problem or an experienced on the continued patronage of the people grower looking for advice on setting up a we help.” 10 light, air-cooled, sealed CO2-powered It is this business philosophy that allowed indoor grow, the employees at Bare Roots Bare Roots to become a dominant force in are right there to help. the market.Walking through the doors, cus“It’s a relaxed atmosphere,” says Bob.“There tomers are welcomed by a clean, open layout is no pressure to sell.There is no need to be displaying the largest selection of products aggressive.The employees are there to help within a 100 mile radius. the customer succeed in growing—bottom

re Roots line. Sometimes that involves not selling “We owe a lot to our distributors for workthem a product as much as it does selling ing closely with us to get the store back in the them one.” positive,” says Bob. Bare Roots existed for a few years before The first step upon taking over the store Bob decided to purchase it, and the store was to expand. Shortly after investing in a suffered from bigger location, neglect.With the the store sold a six store’s customer light set-up and base rapidly Bob and Gennifer dwindling and knew they were debts owed to heading in the many of the right direction. major and minor “The move was suppliers in North good for us,” says America risBob.“It just kept ing, the previous getting busier.” owner decided Shortly after that he was stretched initial expantoo thin to run sion, Bare Roots the store. In came landed a signature Bob, who owned a karate dojo next door, account with Canna Nutrients, allowing the and Gennifer. store to become the exclusive distributor of “My wife started working as a manager for the product line throughout the Northern Bare Roots after becoming pregnant with Valley.This gave the store the ability to stock our son, Mason,” says Bob. some of the best nutrients in the biz with After managing a House & Garden restaurant, Genand Canna as the nifer says she was feature attraclooking for a job tion, a distincin a low-stress ention not many vironment.“Bob stores in the state happened to speak or country can with the owner claim. of Bare Roots the Today, Bare next day and he Roots can’t said he was lookseem to stop One of the main facets to focus on while running any ing for a manager growing. In business is inventory. Bare Roots believes in maintaining a large inventory, including the largest selection of to run the store.” just four years, pest control products within a 100-mile radius. That was the store has November 2006. expanded from Seven months later, July 2007 and the day a small store that barely had enough room to of Bob’s daughter’s 11th birthday, Bob and move pallets of soil, to the store it is now. Gennifer purchased the store.They assumed In February 2009, the store made its most the store’s debt with the agreement that they recent move to its current location. Quickly, would pay the previous owner for the busithe store gobbled up the adjoining nail salon ness after they settled their newly acquired for floor space and then an insurance building debt with its distributors. next store for back stock.

“It’s a relaxed atmosphere,” says Bob. “There is no pressure to sell. There is no need to be aggressive. The employees are there to help the customer succeed in growing—bottom line. Sometimes that involves not selling them a product as much as it does selling them one.”

With a full soil yard, a large and inviting store and several buildings for back stock, Bare Roots no longer struggles to bring in customers and new product. In fact, its biggest challenge is just keeping up with the rapid expansion of its customer base. It’s one of those problems you like to have, says Bob. Manager William Travis Barber is in charge of maintaining personal relationships with customers and distributors as well as keeping up with the rapid expansion. He makes sure to keep the store full with the highest quality products from Sunlight Supply, Hydrofarm, Earth Juice, General Hydroponics and many others. William also makes sure that every customer that walks into Bare Roots leaves totally prepared to tackle whatever growing issues he or she may have.“I try to be detail-oriented in helping customers overcome their problems,” says William.“It helps to be thorough.You can never ask too many questions, or talk too long.” Bob says there is a plan to open another store someday, but it will have to wait. “Right now we are on a huge upswing. Until it plateaus a little the store still needs attention.” Bob believes the future of his business and the horticultural industry is limitless.The industry is ever expanding as distributors constantly create better ways of doing what humans have done for ages—grow plants. “In the next few years,” Bob says, “I see my business and the industry expanding as gardening becomes more mainstream and is used more and more as a way to sustainably produce your own food.As long as our major suppliers continue to stay proactive in creating newer, more-efficient products, the horticultural landscape will continue to grow.” MY Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

171

172

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

MAX-MART

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

173

MAX-MART

GRowco indoor Garden supply

174

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

LLC

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

www.hydrogardendelight.com

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

175

MAX-MART

Come Grow With Us on Facebook!

176

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

177

COMING UP IN september

Fantastic Fresh Fodder

Humans aren’t the only living beings that can benefit from food grown with hydroponics. Learn the various benefits of fresh, hydroponically-grown fodder for livestock and pets, and how to grow some at home.

Heirloom Tomatoes

Grow-at-home the very best heritage and heirloom strains of tomatoes with these expert tips.

Basic Plant Genetics

Learn the basics of Mendelian genetics and greatly improve your own seed-making efforts dramatically.

Innovative instrumentation, ballasts and blazers, cloners, trimmers, grow tents and more.

www.maximumyield.com Maximum Yield USA September will be available September 1 for FREE at selected indoor gardening retail stores across the country and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available at maximumyield.com/subscriptions.php

178

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

DO YOU

know? 5

For every million we spend annually on locally-produced food, we prevent over 10 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

the soil disrupts the microbial colonization 6 Tilling of the beneficial fungi and bacteria that are responsible for the bio-availability of nutrients to your plants.

In mineral soils as well as for some types of soilless mixes, contact between ions in solution and plant roots is governed by three physical processes—mass flow, diffusion and root interception.

Plasma lights all feature three basic components: the emitter, a radio frequency source and a power supply and control circuitry. A functional grow light also includes a reflector, UV shielding, RF shielding and a heat sink.

Fresh produce travels an average of 1,500 to 2,500 miles to reach your plate and seven to 14 days from farm to plate.

When both nitrogen and phosphorus are in abundant supply in the rooting medium, root hairs will not develop.

Root size is not a significant factor in essential element absorption if there is an adequate supply of carbohydrates and oxygen available for the functioning roots.

For every million we spend annually on locallyproduced food, we prevent over 10 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

Typically indeterminate types of tomatoes are grown commercially in greenhouses.

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

179

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

ALABAMA

Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Road, Hammondville, AL 35989 256-635-0802

ALASKA

Brown’s Electrical Supply 365 Industrial Way, Anchorage, AK 99501 907-272-2259 Far North Garden Supply 2834 Boniface Parkway Anchorage, AK 99504 907-333-3141 Southside Garden Supply AK 12870 Old Seward Highway, Unit 114, Anchorage, AK 99515 907-339-9997 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733 Northern Lights Greenhouse & Garden Supply Suite 105-9737 Mud Bay Road Ketchikan, Alaska 9901 907-225-GROW (4769) Anuway Hydroponics Suite #1 2711 W Walnut Rogers AK 72756 USA 479 631 0099 Peninsula Garden Supply AK 44224 Sterling Highway, Suite 4, Soldotna, AK 99669 907-420-0401 Far North Garden Supply 300 Centaur Street, Wasilla, AK 99654 907-376-7586

ARIZONA

Sea of Green Flagstaff 204-C E. Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-SOGF(7643) The Hydro Closet 5826 West Olive Avenue #106 Glendale, Arizona 85302 602-361-2049 Homegrown Hydroponics 2525 West Glendale Ave Phoenix AZ 85051 602-368-4005 Sea of Green West 2340 W. Bell Road, Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 85023 602-504-8842 ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane, Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137 Homegrown Hydroponics 601 East Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Sea of Green Hydroponics 1301 E. University Dr. Tempe AZ, 85281 800-266-4136 Gonzo Grow 10297 W Van Buren Street, Tolleson, AZ 85353 623-780-GROW Natural Pools & Gardens 2143 North Country Suite C, Tucson, AZ 85716 520-323-2627 Sea of Green Hydroponics 402 North 4th Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85705 520-622-6344

ARKANSAS

Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Highway 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955 Growfresh Organics & More 2600 S Zero St, Suite C Fort Smith, AR 72901 479.648.8885 Fermentables 3915 Crutcher Street, N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261

180

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

CALIFORNIA

Greenleaf Hydroponics 1839 W Lincoln Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92801 714-254-0005 Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Drive, Suite L, Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Road, #7 Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090 American Hydroponics 286 South G Street, Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Humboldt Hydroponics 601 I Street, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-3377 Let it Grow 160 Westwood Center, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-8733 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 639 6th St. Arcata, CA 95521 707-826-9998 Sweet Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 1041 E. Grand Ave. Arroyo Grande,CA 93420 (805) 473-0004 Hole In The Wall Hydroponics 282 Broadway Ave. Atwater, CA 95301 209-358-3944 Auburn Organic 4035 Grass Valley Highway, Auburn, CA 95602 530-823-8900 High Street Hydro 180 Cleveland Avenue, Auburn, CA 95603 530-885-5888 Quail Mountain Ranch 230 Palm Ave Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-2390 Tell 2 Friends Indoor Gardening 62 Sutherland Drive, Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-8171 Stop N Grow 5455 Rosedale Hwy Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 859-1988 Green Leaf Hydroponics 3903 Patton Way #103 Bakersfield CA 93308 661-245-2616 Kern Hydroponics 2408 Brundage Lane, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-323-7333 The Hydro Shop 3980 Saco Road Bakersfield, CA 661-399-3336 Better Grow Hydro Los Angeles 5554 Bandini Boulevard, Bell, CA 91106 323-510-2700; 877 640 GROW Super Starts PO Box 732, Bellmont, CA 94002 650-346-8009 Berkeley Indoor Garden 844 University Avenue Berkeley, CA 94710 510-549-2918 Berkeley’s Secret Garden 921 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94710 510-486-0117 Hydroponic Connection, The 2816 San Pablo Ave Berkeley, CA 94702 510 704-9376 Brentwood Hydroponics & Organics 560 Valdry Ct #85 Brentwood, CA 94513 925-634-6704

Advanced Garden Supply 3113 Alhambra Drive, Unit F, Cameron Park, CA 95682, 530-676-2100 Precision Hydroponics 132 Kennedy Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008 408-866-8176 Elite Horticulture Supply 22330 Sherman Way, C13, Canoga Park, CA 91303 818-347-5172 Hydro International 7935 Alabama Avenue Canoga Park, CA 91304 Advanced Hydroponics 17808 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country, CA 91351 Myron L Company 2450 Impala Drive, Carlsband, CA 9210-7226 760-438-2021 661-299-1603 San Diego Hydroponics North County Coastal 6352 Corte Del Abeto #J Carlsbad CA, 92011 760-420-8934 NorCal Creations PO Box 28, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 Garden Connection, The 2145 Park Avenue, Unit 2 Chico, CA 95928 530-342-7762 Hydro King 2540 South Whitman Place, Chico, CA 959282 530-893-GROW (4769) Grow4Less garden Supply & Hydroponics 320 Trousdale Dr., Suite L Chula Visa CA 91910 619-425-GROW Citrus Heights Hydrogarden 8043 Greenback Lane Citrus Heights, CA 95610 916-728-4769 Conrad Hydroponics Inc. 14915 Unit E, Olympic Drive, Clearlake, CA 95422 707-994 3264 Under The Sun 12638 Foothill Boulevard, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423 707-998-GROW (4769) Gro More Garden Supply 2937 Larkin Avenue, Clovis, CA 93021 559-348-1055 G & G Organics and Hydroponics 901 W. Victoria Street Unit D, Compton, CA 90220 310-632-0122 Concord Indoor Garden 2771 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Avenue, Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth Street, #211, Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 A+ Hydroponics & Organics 1604 Babcock Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949-642-7776 The Hydro Source 671 E. Edna Place Covina, CA 91723 877 HYDRO 82; 626-915-3128 Let it Grow 1228 2nd Street, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-9086 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1070 Highway 101, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-1200 Seaside Hydrogarden 1070 Highway 101 North, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-465-3520 Pacific Coast Hydroponics 4147 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230 310-313-1354

Dr. Greenthumbs Hydroponic Garden Supplies 566 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Danville, CA 94526 925-314-9376 Constantly Growing - Davis 123 D Street Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774 Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Drive, Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710 Harvest Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way Suite B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 Victory Garden Supply 1900 N Lincoln St #100 Dixon CA 95620 707 678 5800 Watch It Grow Hydro 9453 Firestone Blvd. Downey, CA 90241 562-861-1982 Garden Warehouse 6355 Scarlet Court, #2, Dublin, CA 94568 925-556-3319 Grow A Lot Hydroponics, San Diego 1591 N. Cuyamaca Street, El Cajon, CA 93612 619-749-6777 El Centro Hydro & Brew Supply Inc. 591 main Street, Suite N-2 El Centro, CA 92243 760-235-4985 Indoor Garden Solution Inc. 12424 Exline Street, El Monte CA 91732, 626-453-0443 Go Green Hydroponics 15721 Ventura Boulevard, Encino, CA 91436 818-990-1198 A Fertile World (Eureka) 65th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-0200 Humboldt Nutrients 65th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 888-420-7770 Humboldt Electronics 2547 California Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-9408 Humboldt Hydroponics 1302 Union Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-4304 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 60 West 4th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 Everthing Green Hydroponics, Inc. 1201 Oliver Rd. Fairfield, CA 94534 707-432-0774 Constantly Growing 4343 Hazel Avenue, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043 Tulare County Growers Supply 435 W. Noble Avenue, Unit A, Farmersville, CA 93223 559-732-8247 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - North 6241 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018 831-335-9990 Eel River Hydroponics & Soil Supply 164 Dinsmore Drive, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-726-0395 The Shop 6542 Front Street, Forestville, CA 95436 707-887-2280 Dirt Cheap Hydroponics 17975 H Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-964-4211 Hydrogarden Mendocino County 1240 North Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-962-9252 A Fertile World (Fortuna) 610 7th Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-0700

Western Auto 1156 Main Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-1189 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 357 Main Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-5550 Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41469 Albrae Street, Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 Roots Grow Supply 1330 North Hulbert, #101 Fresno, CA 93728 559-840-0122 Tower Garden Supply & Organic Nursery 403 W. Olive Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728 559-495-1140 Valley Hydroponics 207 E. Sierra Ave. Fresno, CA 93710 559-449-0426 Grow Wurks Hydroponics 765 S. State College Boulevard. Suite J Fullerton, CA 92831 714-253-Grow (4769) SB Hydro 1109 W. 190th Street, Unit #F, Gardena, CA 90248 310-538-5788 Golden Gecko Garden Center, The 4665 Marshall Road, Garden Valley, CA 95633 530-333-2394 Probiotic Solutions 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, CA 95441 707-354-4342 South Valley Hydroponics 320 Kishimura Drive, #3 Gilroy, CA 95020 1-866-848-GROW Zen Hydroponics 1801 Victory Blvd. Glendale, CA 91201 877 ZEN Grow 818 806 4500 Stop N Grow 340 Pine Avenue, Goleta, CA 93003 805-685-3000 All Seasons Hydroponics 17614 Chatsworth Street, Granada Hills, CA 91344 818-368-4388 AG Natural 403 Idaho Maryland Road, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-274 0990 Grass Valley Hydrogarden 12506 Loma Rica Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-477-2996 Vital Landscaping Inc. 12817 Loma Rica Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-273-3187 West Coast Growers Hydroponics 13481 Colifax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 95945 888-924-4769 M.G.S. 22540 D Foothill Boulevard, Hayward, CA 94541 510-582-0900 Thrive Hydroponics 70 A West North Street, Healdsburg, CA 95446 707-433-4068 Bear Valley Hydroponics & Homebrewing 17455 Bear Valley RD. Hesperia CA 92345 760 949 3400 Emerald Garden 13325 South Highway 101, Hopland, CA 95482 707-744-8300 Surf City Hydroponics 7319 Warner Street, Suite B Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-847-7900 Dutch Garden Supplies Park Circle Suite 12 Irvine CA 92614 949-748-8777

West Coast Hydroponics, Inc. 27665 Forbes Road, Unit 10 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-348-2424 La Habra Hydroponics 1301 S Beach Blvd, Suite O. La Habra, CA 90631 562-947-8383 Grass Roots Hydroponics 31875 Corydon, Suite 130 Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 951-245-2390 South County Hydroponics 22511 Aspan Street, Suite E Lake Forest, CA 92630 949-837-8252 Clover Hydroponics & Garden Supply 43 Soda Bay Road, Lakeport, CA 95453 707-263-4000 San Diego Hydroponics East County 11649 Riverside Drive, Suite 141, Lakeside, CA 92040 619-562-3276 Total Hydroponics Center Inc 4820 Paramount Blvd Lakewood, CA 90712 562-984-GROW (4769) Weather Top Nursery 44901 Harmon Drive, Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-6385 CNG Garden Supplies 22 Ricknbacker Circle, Livermore, CA 94551 925-454-9376 DL Wholesale 6764 Preston Ave. Suite D Livermore CA 94551 510 550 0018 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 6485 Brisa Street, Livermore, CA 94550 888-570-4678 (Southern CA) Garden Depot, The 203 Commerce Street, Suite 101 Lodi, CA 95240 209-339-9950 Valley Rock Landscape Supply 2222 N H Street Lompoc CA 93436 P: 805 736 0841 805 735 5921 Green Coast Hydroponics 2405 Mira Mar Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-627-5636 Grow Light Express 5318 East Second Street suite 164, Long Beach, CA 90803 888-318-GROW Long Beach Hydroponics & Organics 1772 Clark Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-498-9525 Atwater Hydroponics 3350 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039 323-663-8881 Green Door Hydro and Solar 830 Traction Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90013 212-625-1323 Hardman Hydroponics 3511 Youree Dr., Shreveport Los Angeles 71105 318-865-0317 Hollywood Hydroponics and Organics 5109 1/2 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027-6105 323-662-1908 Hydroasis 2643 S. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90232 888-355-4769 LAX Hydro 10912 S. La Cienaga Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90304 310-337-6995 Nirvana Hydroponics 340 South San Pedro Los Angeles, CA 90013 310-795-2914 Sunland Hydroponics 4136 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90065 323-254-2800

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

181

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Green Giant Hydroponics 7183 Hwy 49 Unit B Lotus CA 95651 530 622 4465 California Green Hydroponics 16491 Road 26, Suite 101 Madera, California 93638 559-674-1400 Deep Roots Garden Center & Flower Shop 207 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Telephone: 310-376-0567 B & S Gardening Supplies 590 Commerce Court, Manteca, CA 95336 209-239-8648 Monterey Bay Horticulture Supply 218 Reindollar Avenue Suite 7A, Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba Street, Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1580 Nursery Way McKinleyville, CA 95519 707-839-9998 Thunders Hydroponic Center 1729 Yosemite Boulevard, Medesco, CA 95354 Mendocino Garden Shop PO Box 1301, 44720 Maint Street (at Hwy. 1), Mendocino, CA 95460 707-937-3459 Grow Zone 718 Willow Rd. Menlo Park CA 94025 650-326-4769 Hooked Up Hydroponics 1004 W. 15th St. Suite B & C, Merced, Ca 95340 209-723-1300 Merced Hydroponics 1809 East 21st Street, Merced, CA 95340 209-726-4769 The Urban Farmer Store 653 E. Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-380-3840 Mission Viejo Hydroponics 24002 Via Fabricante Suite 502 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-380-1894 Coca’s Central Valley Hydroponics 116 West Orangeburg Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350 209-567-0590 Growers Choice Hydroponics 1100 Carver Road, Modesto, CA 95350 209-522-2727 Year Round Garden Supply 11000 Carver Rd. #20 Modesto, CA 95350 Tel: 209 522 2727 Green Light Hydroponics 2615 Honolula Ave. Montrose, CA 91020 818-640-2623 Grodan Inc. Moorpark, CA 93021 541-646-8245 Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 850 Shasta Avenue, Suite B Morro Bay, CA 93442 805-772-5869 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - Mtn. View 569 East Evelyn Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070 Redwood Garden Supply 55 Myers Avenue, Myers Flat, CA 95554 707-943-1515 Endless Green Hydroponics 25 Enterprise Court, Suite 3 Napa, CA 94558 707-254-0200 Conejo Hydroponics 3481 Old Conejo Road #106 Newbury Park, CA 91320 805-480-9596 Stop N Grow 640 S. Frontage Road, Nipomo, CA 93444 805-619-5125

182

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Valley Garden Solutions Inc. 15650 Nordhoff Avenue, Suite 104, North Hills, CA 91345 818-336-0041 Foothill Hydroponics 10705 Burbank Boulevard, N. Hollywood, CA 91601 818-760-0688 One Stop Hydroponics 12822 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606 818-980-5855 Lumatek Digital Ballasts 33 Commercial Boulevard, Suite B Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4273 Marin Hydroponics 55 Frosty Ln Novato, CA 94949 (415) 233-4104 Marin Hydroponics 1219 Grant Avenue, Novato, CA 94945 415-897-2197 Roots Grow Supply 40091 Enterprise Dr. Oakhurst CA 93644 559 683 6622 3rd Street Hydroponics 636 3rd Street Oakland, CA 94607 510-452-5521 Bloom Hydro 1602 53rd Ave. Oakland CA 94601 707 980 0456 Medicine Man Farms 1602 53rd Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Plant-N-Grow 1602 53rd Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084 Cultivate Ontario 2000 Grove Ave #a110 Ontario, CA 91761 909-781-6142 Flairform 1751 S Pointe Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761 213-596-8820 GreenCoast Ontario Unit 102-103 1920 South Rochester Avenue Ontario, CA 1 (909) 605-5777 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 1950 C South Grove Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761 888-888-3319 Palm Tree Hydroponics 2235 E 4th St,Suite G Ontario, CA 91764 909-941-9017 RH Distribution 1751 S. Pointe Avenue Ontario, CA 91761 888-545-8112 Green Coast Hydroponics 496 Meats Avenue Orange, CA 92865 714-974-4769 Natural Pest Controls 8320 B Hazel Avenue, Orangevale, CA 95662 916-726-0855 Advanced Soil & Garden Supply 350 Oro Dam Boulevard, Oroville, CA 95965 530-533-2747 Igrow Hydro 2280 Veatch Street, Oroville, CA 95965 530-534-4476 Orville Organic Gardens 5250 Olive Hwy Ste 1 Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9950

US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086 Pacifica Hydroponics 90 Eureka Square Pacifica, CA 94044 (650) 355-5100 America’s Best Hydroponics & Gardening Center 641 W. Palmdale Blvd. Unit D Palmdale, CA 93551 661-266-3906 Hydroponics Unlimited 641 W. Palmdale Blvd. “D” Palmdale, CA 93550 661-266-3906 Palm Springs Hydroponics 4651 Ramon Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-ROOT DNA Hydroponics Inc 19345 North Indian Canyon Drive, North Palm Springs, Suite 2-F CA 92258 760-671-5872 New Leaf Hydro 34150 123rd Street, Parablossom, CA 93553 661-944-2226 Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO Better Grow Hydro Pasadena 1271 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasedena, CA 91106 626 737 6612 Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 3850 Ramada Drive, Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333 Foothills Hydrogarden 3133 Penryn Road, Penryn, CA 95663 916-270-2413 Funny Farms Hydroponics 963 Transport Way, #12 Petaluma, CA 94954 707-775-3111 House of Hydro 224 Weller Street, #B, Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-4769 JNJ Hydroponics 4774 Phelan Rd. Suite 2 Phelan CA 92371 760 868 0002 Turbo Grow 1889 San Pablo Avenue, Pinole, CA 94564 510-724-1291 Hillside Hydro & Garden 4570 Pleasant Valley Road Placerville CA 95662 530-644-1401 Best Yield Garden Supply 3503 West Temple Avenue, Unit A, Pomona, CA 91768 909-839-0505 Emerald Garden 8249 Archibald Avenue, Ranch Cucamanga, CA 91730 909-466-3796 GreenLeaf Hydroponics 2212 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach, CA 90278 310-374-2585 Shadow Valley Aquatics 75 Kimick Way, Red Bluff, CA 96080 530-526-0479 Bare Roots Hydroponics 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, CA 96002 530-244-2215 Dazey’s Supply 3082 Redwood Drive, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002 Humboldt Hydroponics 2010 Tunnel Road, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-1402 Redway Feed Garden and Pet Supply 290 Briceland Road, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-2765

Sylvandale Gardens 1151 Evergreen Road, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3606 Humboldt Hydroponics 2174 Pine Street, Redding, CA 96001 530-241-7454 Hydro King 105 Hartnell Avenue, Suite C and D, Redding, CA 96002 888-822-8941 Orsa Organix 111 Willow Street, Redwood City, CA 94063 650-369-1269 Mendocino Greenhouse & Garden Supply 960 East School Way, Redwood Valley, CA 95470 707-485-0668 EZ Green Hydroponics 7017 Reseda Boulevard, Reseda, CA 91335 818-776-9076 Hydro Hills Hydroponics 19320 Vanowen St. Reseda CA 91335 Box Of Rain Inc. Po Box 302, Rexford, CA 59930 406-755-7245 Hi-Tech Gardening 5327 Jacuzzi Street, #282, Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-4710 The Urban Farmer Store 2121 San Joaquin Street, Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-1604 Discount Hydroponics 4745 Hiers Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505 877-476-9487 All Ways Hydro 2220 Eastridge Ave. Suite C Riverside CA 92507 888-HYDRO98 Calwest Hydroponics 11620 Sterling Avenue, Suite A Riverside, CA 92503 800-301-9009 Hydro Depot 5665 Redwood Drive, #B, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-584-2384 Igrow Hydro 9000 Atkinson Street, Roseville, CA 95678 916-773-4476 Green Acres Hydroponics 1215 Striker Avenue, Suite 180, Sacramento, CA 95834 916-419-4394 Greenfire Sacramento 3230 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95821 916-485-8023 Green Thumb Hydroponics 35 Quinta Court, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95823 916-689-6464 KY Wholesale 8671 Elder creek Rd. #600 Sacramento, CA 95828 916 383 3366 Mystic Gardens 8484 Florin Road, #110, Sacramento, CA 95828 916-381-2464 Sac Hydroponics 9529 Folson Boulevard, Suite C Sacramento, CA 95827 916-369-7968 Skywide Import & Export Ltd. 5900 Lemon Hill Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95824 916-383-2369 Tradewinds Wholesale Garden Supplies 1235 Striker Avenue #180, Sacramento, CA 95834 888-557-8896 Green Joint Ventures 61 Tarp Circle, Salinas, CA 93901 831-998-8628 Reforestation Technologies International 1341 Daton Street, Units G&I Salinas, CA 93901 831-424-1494; 800-RTI-GROW

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 1900 Bendixsen Street , Bldg. 1, Samoa, CA 95564 800-683-1114 (Northern CA) Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. Street, Suite D, San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919 Garden Shed, The 1136 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 650-508-8600 Pure Food Gardening/Microclone 830 H Bransten Rd. San Carlos,CA 94070-3338 Green Gopher Garden Supply 679 Redwood Avenue, Suite A, Sand City, CA 93955 831-899-0203 Modern Gardens 26620 Valley Center Dr. Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-513-4733 Best Coast Growers 4417 Glacier Avenue Suite C, San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Avenue, San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358 Green Lady Hydroponics 4879 Newport Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107 619-222-5011 Home Brews & Gardens 3176 Thorn St San Diego, CA 92104 619 630 2739 Indoor Garden Depot 1848 Commercial St. San Diego CA 92113 619-255-3552 Innovative Growing Solutions (IGS) 5060 Santa Fe St. Ste.D San Diego, CA 92109 858-578-4477 Mighty Garden Supply 4780 Mission Gorge Pl. #A-1, San Diego, CA 92120 619-287-3238 Miramar Hydroponics & Organics 8952 Empire Street San Diego CA 92126 858-549-8649 Oracle Garden Supply 5755 Oberlin Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92121 858-558-6006 Pacific Beach Hydroponics 1852 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109 858-274-2559 San Diego Hydroponics Beach Cities 4122 Napier Street, San Diego, CA 92110 619-276-0657 Wai Kula Hydrogardens 5297 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA 92110 619-299-7299 Direct Hydroponics Wholesale 1034 W. Arrow Hwy#D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 Liquid Gardens 1034 West Arrow Hwy.#D San Dimas, CA 91773 888-924-9376 Extreme Hydroponics 11479 San Fernando Road C, San Fernando, CA 91340 818-898-0915 Grow Your Own 3401 Traval Street, San Francisco, CA 94116 415-731-2115 Hydroponic Connection Warehouse, The 1995 Evans Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94124 415-824-9376 Nor Cal Hydroponics 4837 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118 415-933-8262 Plant It Earth 2279 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94114 415-626-5082

Urban Gardens Unlimited UrbanGardens 704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 415-421-4769 San Francisco Hydro 123 Tenth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 The Urban Farmer Store 2833 Vicente Street, San Francisco, CA 94116 415-661-2204 US Garden 417 Agostinio Rd San Gabriel Ca 91776 626 285-5009 Inland Empire Hydrogarden 1301-C South State Street, San Jancinto, CA 92853 Hahn’s Lighting 260 E. VA Suite 1, San Jose, CA 95112 408-295-1755 Plant Life 32 Race Street, San Jose, CA 95126 408-283-9191 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - San Jose 1185 South Bascom Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128 408-292-4040 D&S Garden Supplies 17-130 Doolittle Drive San Leandro, CA 94577 510-430-8589 Hydrogarden Delight 13762 Doolittle Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577 510-903-1808 Central Coast Hydrogarden 1951 Santa Barbara Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-544-GROW Healthy Harvest Hydroponics and Organics 2958 S. Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.596.0430 San Diego Hydroponics North 802 N. Twin Oaks Valley Road #108 San Marcos, CA 92069 760-510-1444 H20 Gardening 355 West 7th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731 310-514-1416 Marin Hydroponics 721 Francisco Blvd East San Rafael, CA 94901 415-482-8802 Pacific Garden Supply 128 H Carlos Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903 San Rafael Hydroponics 1417 Fourth Sreet San Rafael, CA 94901 415 455 9655 Green Coast Hydroponics 3560 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 805-898-9922 Nutes Int’l 204 N Quarantina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 805-687-6699 Planet Earth Hydroponics 102 East Haley St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805 899 0033 Santa Clarita Valley Hydroponics 25835 Railroad Ave. #26 Santa Clarita CA 91350 661 255 3700 661 255 3701 California Hydroponics 310 Coral Street, Suite C Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-423-4769 Hydro-Logic Purification Systems 370 Encinal St, Suite 150, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 888 H2O LOGIC Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - West Side 815 Almar Avenue, Unit K, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-9000 Full Sun Supply 3535 Industrial Drive, Unit B-3 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 877-FULL-SUN advanced hydroponics and gardening

704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

183

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Gonzo Grow 2550 Guerneville Road,Suite C, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 707-546-1800 Gottagrow Garden Supply 769 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-544-7782 Green Logic Garden Supply 860 Piner Road, #38, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-843-3156 Organic Bountea 1919 Dennis Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 800-798-0765 Pro Gardening Systems 3715 Santa Rosa Avenue #2, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-585-8633 Sun-In Hydroponics 1257A Cleveland Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 707-578-5747 Sweet Leaf Hydroponics 1611 Sebastobol Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-575-GROW (4237) Santee Hydroponics 7949 Mission Gorge Road, Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Gardening Unlimited 60 Old El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-457-1236 Pro Gardening Systems 765 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-7252 Better Choice Hydroponics 610 S. Washington Street, Senora, CA 95370 209 533 2400 Go Big Hydroponics 4501 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-789-3341 Bloom Brothers Garden Supply, Inc. 3293 Industry Dr. Signal Hill, CA 90755 562 494-0060 We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 Abundant Hydroponics LLC 1611 Shop Street, #1-A, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-54 HYDRO Advanced Garden Supply 2660 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Building C, Unit 9, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-4769 Farm Hydroponics, The 1950 Lake Tahoe Boulevard #3, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-3276 Valley Hydro and Organics 19230 Sonoma Hwy. Sonoma CA 95476 707 396 8734 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - East Side 4000 Cordelia Lane Soquel, CA 95073 831-475-9900 Orange County Hydroponics 12797 Beach Boulevard, Stanton, CA 90680 714-893-9493 HomeGrown Indoor Garden Supply 681 A Grider Way, Stockton, CA 95210 209-477-4447 Golden Harvest Hydroponics & Garden Supply 8626 Lower Sacramento Road #48, Stockton, CA 95210 209-951-3550 M&M Garden Supply 2509 West Lane, Suite B Stockton, CA 95205 209-939-0664 Pacific Ave Indoor Garden Supply 4633 pacific Ave Stockton , CA 95207 209-955-0945 City Farm Hydroponics 8903 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Sun Valley, CA 91352 818-767-2076

184

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Sunland Hydroponics 8300 Foothill Boulevard, Sunland, CA 91040 818-352-5300 Anthony’s Garden & Lighting Supply 30 Ridge Road, Suites 8 & 9 Sutter Creek, CA 95685 209-267-5416 Tahoe Garden Supply 645 Westlake Boulevard, Suite 2, PO Box 487 Tahoe City, CA 96145 530-581-3200 The Otherside Hydroponics 19425 Ventura Blvd Tarzana CA 91356 818 881 hydro (4937) Hydroponics 4 Less 41669 Winchester Avenue, Temecula, CA 92590 800-A1-HYDRO Inland Empire Hydrogarden 28822 Old Town Front St. #206 Temecula, CA 92590 886-74-HYDRO 805 Hydroponics & Organics 1785 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-494-1785 Art of Hydro 2636 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-230-2227 Green Thumb Lighting & Garden 1647 W. Sepulveda Boulevard, Unit 5, Torrance, CA 90501 888-326-GROW Los Angeles Hydroponics and Organics 3007-3009 W. Artesia Blvd. Torrance, CA 90504 310-323-4937 Anything Grows 10607 W. River Street, Building 3 Suite C, Truckee, CA 96161 530-582-0479 Hooked Up Hydroponics 339 S. Golden State Boulevard, Turlock, CA 95380 209-668-1300 Emerald Garden 307 East Perkins Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-463-2510 HydroPacific - Hydroponics & Garden Supplies 351 C Hastings Av., Ukiah, CA 95482 707-467-0400 Northcoast Hydrogardens 3450 North State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7214 Atlantis Garden Supply 2851 A Whipple Road, Union City, CA 94587 510-487-8007 Evergreen Hydroponics 923 N. Central Avenue, Suite B, Upland, CA 91786 909-946-7100 TNC Supply 9490 Main Street, P.O. Box 763 Upper Lake, CA 95485 707-275-9565 Everything Green 448 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 707-647-0774 Hydroponics Market 15816 Arminta St Van Nuys, CA 91406 818-305-6261 886-72-HYDRO Stop N Grow 4160 Market Street, Unit 11 Ventura, CA 93003 805-639-9489 BWGS-CA 7530 W. Sunnyview Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 888-316-1306 The Green Shop 66420 Mooney Boulevard, Suite 1 Visalia, CA 93277 559-688-4200 Kaweah Grower Supply 1106 1/2 N. Ben Maddox Way, Visalia, CA 93293 559-625-4937 Greentrees Hydroponics Inc. 2581 Pioneer Avenue, Unit D Vista, CA 92081 760-598-7551

Home Life Hydroponics and Organics 1745 East Vista Way, Vista, CA 92084 760-643-2150 Specialty Garden Center 1970 East Vista Way, Suite 10, Vista, CA 92084 760-758-4769 Monterey Bay Hydroponics and Organics 81 Hangar Way, #1, Watsonville, CA 95076 831-761-9999 California Hydro Garden 1043 South Glendora Avenue, Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874 Hydronation 2491 Boatman Drive, Suite B West Sacramento, CA 95691 916-372-4444 Flower Hut Nursery 603 4th Street Wheatland, CA 95692 530-633-4526 Green Coast Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard Whittier, CA 90601 562-699-4201 GreenWay Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90601 Lazy Gardeners Hydroponics ‘N’ More 14626 East Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90605 562-945-0909 Garden Spout, The 260 Margie Dr Willits, CA 95490 707-456-0196 Sparetime Supply 208 E. San Francisco Avenue, Willits, CA 95490-4006 Hydromagic Supply 40 N. East St. Suite F Woodland,CA 95776 530-661-0117 Urban Gardens 22516 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-876-0222 Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 Garden Highway Garden Supply 598 Garden Highway #22 Yuba City, CA 95991 530-755-2877 Southern Humbolt Garden Supplies 34919 Yucaipa Boulevard, Yucaipa, CA 92399 909-797-6888 707-459-6791 Yucca Valley Hydroponics 56825 Twentynine Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 760 369 0300

COLORADO

South Park Hydroponics 42 E Buckskin Rd. Alma CO 80420 719 836 1533 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 3550 B Odessa Way, Aurora, CO 80011 866-877-4188 (Northeast) Nick’s Garden Center 2001 S. Chambers, Aurora, CO 80014 303-696-6657 Family Hydroponics-Boulder 2125 32nd Street Boulder, co 80301 303-996-6100 Polar Ray 5171 Eldorado Springs Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 303 494 5773 Way To Grow 6395 Gunpark Drive, Boulder, CO 80301 303-473-4769 Deep Roots Garden Supply 1790 Airport Road, Unit 1 Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-1440

Mile High Hydroponics 37 Strong St. Brighton, CO 80601 303 637 0069 Brighton Hydroponics 839so.Kuner rd., Brighton Colorado 80601 303-655-1427 ACME Hydroponics 300 Nickel St Suite 3 Broomfield, CO 80020 720.524.7306 Colorado Grow 3400 Industrial Lane, Unit 10A Broomfield, CO 80020 (303) 465-GROW (4769) Hydrofarm CO 400 Burbank St Broomfield, CO 80020 800-634-9990 J&D Organic Growing Solutions 217 1/2 Clayton Street Brush, CO 80723 970-310-5408 BIG BloomZ 1011 Caprice Drive, Castle Rock, CO 80109 303-688-0599 Indoor Garden Warehouse 8100 S Akron St., Suite 322, Centennial, CO 80112 720-496-2110 Garden Tech 737 Garden of the Gods Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-278-9777 Greenhouse Tech 917 East Fillmore, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-634-0637 Hydro Grow Supply 644 Peterson Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719-596-2600 Purple Mountain Hydroponics LLC 1530 S Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-635-5859 Room To Grow LLC 422 South 8th Street Colorado Springs CO 80905 719 633 8682 Roots and Rocks Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 1014 S. 21st Street Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-634-1024 High Tech Garden Supply 5275 Quebec St. Commerce City, CO 80022 720-222-0772 Roll-N-Green Farms Horticultural Supply 25797 Conifer Rd #A-8 Conifer, Co 80433 303-838-5520 Global Organics & Hydroponics 11 N Broadway Cortez CO 81321 970 564 8100 Your Grow Bud 6801 South Emporia St. Suite 106 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 Tel: 303-790-2211 BWGS-CO 11685 E. 55th Avenue Denver, CO 80239 888-316-1306 Chlorophyll 3801 Mariposa St. Denver CO 80211 303-433-1155 Denver Hydroponic & Organic Center 6810 North Broadway, Unit D Denver, CO 80221 303-650-0091 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 7100 N. Broadway, Suite 3D Denver, CO 80221 303-428-5020 The Grow Outlet 4272 Lowell Boulevard Denver, CO 80211 303-586-5543 Way To Grow 301 East 57th Ave. Denver, CO 80216 303-296-7900 All Seasons Gardening 434 Turner Drive, Suite 2B Durango, CO 81303 (970) 385-4769

Blue Sky Hydroponics 1301 Florida Road Unit C Durango, CO 81301 970-375-1238 Grow Store South, The 5050 S. Federal Boulevard, #37, Englewood, CO 80110 303-738-0202 Alpenglow Garden Supply 2712 South College Ave Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-266-8888 Bath Nursery & Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-484-5022 Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769 Hydro Shack, The 220 Main Street, Suite E Frisco, CO 80443 970-668-0359 GWS Hydroponics 7025 Highway 82 Building 4B, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-384-2040 Hydro Planet 711 Washington Avenue, Golden, CO 80401 303-279-6090 Rocky Mountain Hydroponics and Organics 15985 S. Golden Road Golden, CO 80401 720-475-1725 Desert Bloom Hydroponics 445 Pitkin Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-245-6427 Primo Gardens 1600 North Ave. Suite B Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-1209 Greeley Nutrients 700 11th Street Unit 101 Greeley CO 80631 970 673 8302 GroWize 3225 S. Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80227 303-986-2706 Grow Store, The 8644 W. Colfax Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80215 888-510-0350 Ever Green Hydroponics Inc. 1131 Francis Street, Suite A, Longmont, CO 80501 303-682-6435 Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 Victory Hydro Gardening 1387 E. South Boulder Rd. Louisville, CO, 80027 Tel: 303-664-9376 Lyons Indoor Gardening 138 Main Street, Lyons, CO 80540 720-530-3828 Head Start Hydroponics & Organic Gardening Emporium 34500 US Highway 6, Unit B-9, North Edwards, CO 81632 970-569-313 Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 7777 W. 38th Avenue, A120A, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-954-9897

CONNECTICUT

Harvest Moon Hydroponics 775 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT 06118 860-568-4067 LiquidSun® CT 10C South Main Street, East Windsor, CT 06088 860-254-5757 Organix Hydroponics 749 Saybrook Road, (Tradewinds Plaza) Middletown, CT 06457 860-343-1923

Delaware

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

FLORIDA

Urban Sunshine 1420 E. Altamonte Dr Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 407-830-4769 Best Hydro 4920 Lena Road, Bradenton, FL 34211 941-756-1928 Palm Coast Hydroponics 4490 N Hwy US1 Ste. 108 Bunnell FL 32110 386 246 4119 East Coast Hydroponics & Organics 461 Forrest Avenue, Suite 105 Coca, FL 32922 321-243-6800 GreenTouch Hydroponics Inc. 5011 S State Road 7, Suite 104 Davie, FL 33314 954-316-8815 Absolute Hydroponic Garden Center Inc 1607 Old Daytona Steet Deland, FL 32724 386-734-0696 Organic Grow Hut 2 780 Deltona Blvd. #107 Deltona, Florida 32725 1-888-574-grow 386-259-5777 Gold Coast Hydroponics 1539 SW 21st Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 1-800-780-7371 Biofloral 6250 NW 27th Way, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 877 735 6725 Green Thumb Hydroponics Supplies 13482 North Cleveland Avenue, Fort Meyers, FL 33903 239-997-4769 Gardener’s Edge Gainesville 5000 NW 34th Street, Suite 13, Gainesville, FL 32605 352-375-2769 Florida Garden Supplies 2692 W 79 Street, Hialeah, FL 33016 1-800-931-5215 Hydro Terra Corp. 924 North Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020 954-920-0889 Simply Hydroponics & Organics (North) 3642 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34448 352-628-2655 Hydroponics International Inc. 7029-10 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32220 904-693-6554 Grower’s Choice & Hydroponics 11855 North Main Street, Jackonsonville, FL 32218 904-683-4517 Urban Organics & Hydroponics 5325 Fairmont Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-398-8012 Simply Hydroponics & Organics 7949 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33773 727-531-5355 GrowSmart Indoor Garden Centers 14587 Southern Boulevard, Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-429-3527 Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – West 14703 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561 296 8555 Atlantic Hydroponics 430 Count Street, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-1535 High Tech Garden Supply 2975 West New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-0853 Advanced Hydro Gardens 4960 NW 165 Street, Suite B-4, Miami, FL 33014 866-97-HYDRO

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

185

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Blossoms Experience, The 7207 NW 54th Street, Miami, FL 33166 866-452-4769 Florida Garden Supplies 9545 Sunset Drive, Miami, FL 33173 800-931-5215 Future Farms Inc., The 14291 SW 120th Street, Suite 105 Miami, FL 33186 305-382-2757 Gold Coast Hydroponics 4241 SW 71st Avenue, Miami, FL 33155 1-800-780-6805 Growing Garden Inc., The 12811 SW 42nd Street, Miami, FL 33175 305-559-0309 VitaOrganix 7921 NW 67th St Miami, FL 33166 786 845 8633 3D Hydroponics and Organics 7139 US Highway #19, New Port Richey, FL 34652 727-847-3491 Florida Garden Supplies 8442 Tradeport Drive, Unit 200, Orlando, FL 32827 Urban Sunshine 6100 Hanging Moss Rd ste 50 Orlando, FL 32807 407-647-4769 Urban Sunshine 6142 S. Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32809 407-859-7728 Green Winters Inc. 147 Tomoka Avenue, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 386-235-8730 800-931-5215 The Healthy Harvest Ste. 126 21113 Johnson St. Pembroke Pines, FL. 33029 Tel: 954-538-1511 Eden Garden Supply 5044 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32505 850-439-1299 Healthy Gardens and Supply of Florida, Inc. 196 East Nine Mile Road, Suite F, Pensacola, FL 32534 850-912-4545 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 455 S. Andrews Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 877-649-3567 (Southeast) Hydroponic Depot II 2395 S Tamiami Trail #19 Port Charlotte FL 33952 941 255 3999t EZ Grow Green 604 S.W. Bayshore Blvd. Port St. Lucie, Fl 34983 772-807-7755 Esposito Garden Center 2743 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-386-2114 Evershine Hydroponics 1519 Capital Circle NE Unit #35 Tallahassee FL 32308 850-765-0040 Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8877 North 56th Street Tampa, FL 33617 813-514-9376 Harvest Time Hydroponics 14414 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613 813-264-7101 Hydroponics of Tampa 120 W. Bougain Villea, Tampa, FL 33612 813-333-6828 Stoney Hydro @ Schiro’s Barn n Garden Supplies 7812 Causeway Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902 Worm’s Way Florida 4412 North 56th Street, Tampa, FL 33610 800-283-9676; 813-621-1792 Monkey Hydroponics 940 West Oakland Ave. Unit A1 407 574 8495

186

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Winter Garden FL 34787 13054 W Colonial Drive Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-GROW(4769) Cultivating Eden Hydroponic Supplies 946 18th Avenue SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962 772-564-8880 Florida Garden Supplies 8020 Belvedere Road,Unit 4, West Palm Beach,FL 33411 800-931-5215 Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – East 968 North Congress Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 33409 561 296 6161

GEORGIA

Atlantis Hydroponics 1422 Woodmont Lane, #4, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-367-0052 Flora Hydroponics Inc. 2475 Jefferson Road, Suite 600 Athens, GA 30607 866-404-0551 Atlantis Hydroponics 2561 West Point Avenue, College Park, GA 30337 678-510-0032 Alpha Hydroponics and Garden Supply Inc. 3904 N Druid Hills Rd. Suite 247 Decatur GA 30033 404 590 4769 Savannah Hydroponics & Organics 4107 Eighth Street, Suite C Garden City, GA 31408 912-349-4030 Atlantis Hydroponics 5182-B Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross, GA 30071 770.558.1346

HAWAII

Eco-Island Supply 810 Haiku Road, #394 Haiku, HI 96708 808-575-9171 Aqua Plant Hawaii / Kahala Hydroponics 4224 Wailae, Suite 1A, Honolulu, HI 96816 808-735-8665 Green Hands of Aloha 1713 Mary Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 808-847-4263 Ohana Greenhouse & Garden Supply 300 Hukilike Street, #2M, Kahalui, HI 96732 808-871-6393 Aiyah’s Garden 3-3122 Kuhio Hwy. unit B-2 Lihue, Hi. 96766 808 245 2627 Pahoa Feed & Fertilizer 15-2754 Old Government Road, Pahoa, HI 96778 808-965-9955

IDAHO

Boise Hydroponics 614 North Orchard Street, Boise, ID 83706 208-344-3053 Greenthumb Greenhouses 5895 Ensign Avenue, Boise, ID 83714

ILLINOIS

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

Fertile Ground 463 West MacArthur Drive, Cottage Hills, IL 62018 618-259-5500 Hydrocork 20647 Renwick Road, Crest Hill, IL 60435 815-838-0100 Goldman’s Grow Shop 910 Greenwood Road, Glenview, IL 60025 847-657-7250 Grow Masters 4641 Old Grand Ave. Gurnee, Il. 60031 (224) 399-9877 Big Grow Hydroponics 9225 Trinity Drive, Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 847-854-4450 Grow Big Hydroponics 7817 B North 2nd Street, Manchesney Park, IL 61115 815-637-4769 Gardinside 618 S. Rt. 59 suite 104 Naperville, IL 60540 630-276-9885 Green Fields 8137 N. Milwaukee, Niles, IL 60714 847-965-5056 Autumn Bloom Alternative Indoor Gardening 1020 Derby Street Pekin, Illinois 61554 309-642-6943 Prairie House Garden Center 15151 South Harlem Avenue, Orland, IL 60462 708-687-3131 Brew and Grow 3224 South Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61109 815-874-5700 Brew and Grow 359 W. Irving Park Road Unit E, Roselle, IL 60172 630-894-4885 Brew and Grow 2379 Bode Road, Schaumburg, IL 60440 630-771-0555 Organic Garden Center 9223 Skokie Blvd. Skokie, IL 60077 (847) 675-2722 Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 3427 Old Chatman Road, Springfield, IL 62704 217-341-0821 Water Works Indoor Gardening 1900 South Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62703 217-553-6929 Midwest Hydroganics 949 W Irving Park Rd. Streamwood IL 60107 630 483 1600

INDIANA

BWGS-IN 7854 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 800-316-1306 Sunleaves Garden Products 7854 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 888-464-9676 Worm’s Way Indiana 7850 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 800-598-8158 Worm’s Way Mail Order 7850 North State Road 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 800-274-9676 Frogs Lilly Pad, The 706 Citation Road, Carmel, IN 46032 317-846-4610 Hops & Harvest 4616 E. DuPont Road, Suite Q, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 260-918-3035 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 1336 East Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 4620 317-780-8070

Inc.

Magic Bulb Garden Center 6229 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-202-2852 Five Point Gardens 56555 Oak Road, South Bend, IN 46619 574-287-9232

Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 12130 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852 240-551-4625 Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901

KANSAS

MASSACHUSETTS

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

KENTUCKY

Garden Grove Organics 29 East 7th Street, Covington, (Cincinnati Metro), KY 41011 859-360-1843 Worm’s Way Kentucky 1360 Donaldson Hwy. Suite A, Erlanger, KY 41018 800-669-2088 Grow Shop, The of Lexington 2320 Palumbo Drive, Suite 130, Lexington, KY 40509 859-268-0779 Louisville Hydroponics 3471 Taylor Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40215 502-366-4000 New Earth Garden Center 9810 Taylorsville Road, Louisville, KY 40299 800-462-5953

LOUISIANA

Geaux Hydroponics! 2126 O’Neal Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225-751-4769 Laughing Buddha Nursery 4516 Clearview Parkway, Metairie, LA 70006 504-887-4336 Urban Organics 285 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70117 504-352-4709 Ourcrazydeals Hydroponics 201 Angus Drive, Yungsville, LA 70592 337-303-6146

MAINE

LiquidSun of Maine 51West Gray Rd. Gray, ME 04039 207-657-8033 Natures Palate Indoor Garden Store 1321 Mercer Rd ( rte2) Mercer, Maine 04957 877-587-4150 207-587-4150 Evergreen Garden Center 301 Forest Avenue Portland, ME 04101 207-761-2800 High Tech Garden Supply Maine178 Rand Rd. Portland, ME 04102 Phone 207-899-4387 Green Thumb Indoor Gardening 19 Stage Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 207-938-5909 Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Road, Toposhan, ME 04086 207-373-0990 Greenlife Garden Supply 611 US Rt. 1 York, ME 03909 207-363-0844

MARYLAND

East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd Street, Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-9236 Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Road, Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018

Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Road, Unit 4, Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966 GYOstuff – Grow Your Own 2400 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140 617-945-1654 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 29 Washington Street, Route 1 Foxboro, MA 02035 800-660-6977 LiquidSun® MA 8 Lynwood Avenue, Holyoke, MA 01040 413-539-6875 Green Path Garden Supply 276 West Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532 508-393-4181 High Tech Garden Supply 560 Boston Turnpike (Rt.9) Shrewsbury, MA 01545 508-845-4477 New England Hydroponics 15 D College Hwy. (Rt. 10), Southampton, MA 01073 888-529-9025 Worm’s Way Massachusetts 121 Worc-Providence Turnpike, Sutton, MA 01590 800-284-9676

MICHIGAN

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 611 Main st. Norway, Michigan 49870 (906)563-1518 Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 6540 Allen Road, Allen Park, MI 48101 313-383-1766 Gro Blue Indoor Gardening Supplies 270 W. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-913-2750 Grow Show, The 4095 Stone School Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (734)-677-0009 (734)-677-0509 HotHydro® 5245 Jackson Road, Suite F Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-761-5040; 877-893-0716 Homelight Gardens 3471 S. Huron Road, Bay City, MI 48706 989-922-0088 J&L Growco 206 S. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 231-796-1528 Greenway Gardens 916 W 13th St Cadillac, Mi,49601 231-775-7075 Cultivation Station 3 Inc. 46912 Gratiot, Chesterfield, MI 48051 586-949-7453 H2O Grow Supply 3364 Arent Ct Coloma, MI 49038 269-468-3890 Van Hydro 7480 N State, Davison, MI 48423 810-653-8267 Hydro Giant 14455 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI Cultivation Station – Eastern Market, The 2518 Market Street, Detroit, MI 48207 313-394-0441 Hydro Giant 21651 W. 8 Mile Rd. Detroit, MI (8Mile & Lahser) 313-387-7700 313-216-8888

Hydro Heaven 73647 W 8th Mile Road, Detroit, MI 48235 313-861-0333; 877-823-2076 Ultra Lo Hydro ultralohydro.com 937-252-8224 Urban Gardening Center, The 2520 22nd Street, Detroit, MI 48216 313-898-0200 Superior Growers Supply 4870 Dawn Avenue, East Lansing, MI 48823 517-332-2663 Sunnyside Hydroponics 24930 Gratiot Avenue, Eastpoint, MI 48021 586-777-2528 Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 799 S. Wisconsin Avenue Gaylord, MI 49735 989 731 8800 Growco Garden Supply 1042 Michigan Street, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 877-939-6900 Home Grown Hydroponix 5333 Plainfield Suite C, Grand Rapids Michigan 49525, 616-361-2924 Horizen Hydroponics 1614 Leonard Street, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 866-791-1664 Hydro Grow Room 15201 N Holly Rd Unit B Holly MI, 48430 248-369-8333 Flower Factory, The 2223 East Highland Road Highland, MI 48356 248-714-9292 Hydro Vision 2858 E Highland rd Highland, MI 48356 Holland Hydroponic Outlet 587-40 East 8th Street Holland, MI 49423 616-298-7395 Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 9091 W. Lake City Road Houghton Lake, MI 48629 989-422-2800 Hydro Vision 1247 e Grand River Howell, MI 48843 Green Forest Indoor Garden Supply, LLC. 2555 N. State(M-66) Rd. Ionia, MI 48846 616-523-6111 Horizen Hydroponics 4646 W. Main Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-567-3333 Kalamazoo Indoor Garden 450 W. Maple, Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-344-2550 HTG Supply-Lansing Michigan 2815 East Grand River Ave.Lansing, MI 48912 (517) 580-0555 Superior Growers Supply 19582 Middlebelt Road, Livonia, MI 48152 248-473-0450 Northern Lights Hydroponic and Garden Supply 29090 Campbell rd. Madison Heights, MI 48071 248-439-6269 BIg Creek Hydroponics 555 Old Little Lake Road, Marquette, MI 49855 906-249-5297 Growing Consultant 2260 Apple Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49442 231-773-5600 Sunshine Supply Co. 5800 East Pickard Street, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-775-3700 Flo-N-Grow. 214 N. 2nd Street, Niles, MI 49120 269-683-1877

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

187

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Super Grow 288 W. MONTCALM PONTIAC, MI 48342 248-24SUPER (78737) Green Earth Hydroponics 8127 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002 269-342-4190 Hydroponics Highway Inc. 2708 14th Ave. Port Huron MI, 48060 810-982-4769 Green Thumb Hydroponics and Organic Indoor Supply 8460 Algoma Suite G Rockford MI 49341 USA 616 884 5500 Home Grown Hydroponics 8075 Gratiot Road, Unit C, Saginaw MI 48609 989-781-1930 Hydro Giant 19363 Eureka Rd, Southgate, MI 734.281.8888 Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 23529 Little Mack Avenue, St. Clair, MI 48080 586-775-9485 High Tech Garden Supply 7889 Telegraph Road. Taylor, MI 48180 313-908-7554 Hydro Grow, The 8210 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI 48180 313-633-0641 Grow Store, The 90 N U.S. Highway 31 South , Traverse City, MI 49685-7923 231-421-5191 Wild Child 7740 M 72 East, Traverse City, MI 49690 866-711-GROW Hydro Vision 1910 West rd Trenton, MI 48183 Hydroharrys.com 24500 Dequindre, Warren, MI 48091 800-461-8819 Indoor Garden Superstore 2570 Dixie Highway, Waterford Twp., MI 48328 248-673-2200; 877 22 HYDRO Light Green Water 3661 Highland Road, Waterford, MI 48329 248-681-0001 Hydrospot 34236 Michigan Avenue, Wayne, MI 48184 734-722-1285 Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 3218 W. Houghton Avenue West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-8800 G.C. II Whitehall, MI 49461 231-893-2400 G.C. II 1006 E. Colby St. Suite A Whitehall, MI 49417 231-893-2400 AAA Hydroponics LLC 22 50th Street Wyoming, MI 49504 616-249-8338 Cultivation Station – Grand Rapids, The 4907 S. Division Ave., Wyoming, MI 49548 616-855-4440 Stealth Hydro 15 E. Cross Street, Ypsilanti, MI 48198 866-998-1916

MINNESOTA Duluth Hydroponics 26 W 1st Street Duluth, MN 55802 218-341-7253

188

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Indoor Gardening 10 NE 3rd Street, Faribault, MN 55021 507-209-1546 Brew and Grow 8302 Highway 65 NE., Minneapolis, MN 55432 763-780-8191 Interior Gardens 115 -1620 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 800-498-4178; 612-870-9077 Midwest Hydroponics 5825 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park,MN 55416 888-449-2739 Eden Indoor Organic Gardens 831 Highway 75 North Moorhead, MN 56560 218-477-EDEN (3336) American Garden Supply 601-6th Avenue, North, Princeton, MN 55371 763-631-0543Q Still-H2O Inc. 14375 North 60th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-2822 Eco Garden Supply 800 Transfer Door 25 in rear St. Paul, MN 55114 651-647-1896

Butteopia 127 Main Street, Butte, Montana 59701 1-406-782-8476 Big Sky Garden Supply 528 West Idaho, Kallispell, MT 59901 406-755-1465 Box of Rain Indoor Garden Center 860 N. Meridian Road B-19, Kalispell, MT 59901 406-755-RAIN (7246) Cornucopia Grow Your Own 127 Stoner Creek Road Lakeside, MT 59922 406-709-1076 Dr. Green Thumbs 1106 West Park, Livingston, MO 59047 406-222-7440 Bizzy Beez LLP 5875 Highway 93 S, Whitefish, MT 59937 406-863-9937

NEBRASKA

Indoor Garden Shop LLC 1310 Bienville Boulevard, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228-875-3725

Patio-Ponics 3255 Cornhusker Highway, Suite 4 Lincoln, NE 68504 402-466-9218 Advanced Hydro-Ponics 10711 Mockingbird Drive, Omaha, NE 68127 (108th and L-Q) 402-991-6630 Paradigm Gardens 8949 J Street, Suite 5, Omaha, NE 68127 402-339-4949

MISSOURI

NEVADA

MISSISSIPPI

Let It Grow - Girardeau 879 S. Kings Highway, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 573-803-0628 Heartland Hydrogardens 705 Vandiver Drive, Suite G HYDROGARDENS Columbia, MO 65202 573-474-4769 Green Circle Hydroponics 12 East Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-421-1840 Grow Your Own Hydroponics 3617 Saint John Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-241-2122 Let It Grow - Springfield 2519 E. Kearney Street, Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-GROW U-Grow 1724 North, 13th Street, St. Louis, MO 63106 314-452-6368 Worm’s Way Missouri 1225 North Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132 800-285-9676 Green Thumb Organics 249 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376 636-397-4769 (GROW)

MONTANA Heightened Harvests 2018 Main Street #4, Billings, MT 59105 406-252-4311 Magic City Organic & Hydroponic Supply 812 Central Billings, MT 59102 (406)-245-LEAF(5323) One World – Life Products 906 Broadwater Billings MT 59101 406 839 9969 Heightened Harvests 3103 Harrison Avenue, Suite B Butte, MT 59701 Alpengrow Nursery Supplies 238 Highway 93 S., Eureka, MT 59917 406-882-4496

Carson Valley Hydroponics 2520 Empire Ranch Road, Carson City, NV 89701 775-884-4769 Lorraine Ink 290 Spear Court, Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-7757 Hydro Store, The 1014 W. Sunset Road, Henderson, NV 89014 702-434-7365 AAA Indoor Organic Garden SuperCenter 2101 S. Decatur Boulevard, #21, Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-450-4769 Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 3111 South Valley View, (on Desert Inn West of Valley View) Suite V103 Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-257-4769 Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 7850 Dean Martin Dr. Suite 506 Las Vegas,NV 89139 702-247-4769 All American Hydroponics 2675 East Patrick Lane, Unit 8, Las Vegas, NV 89120 702-894-9888 Best Hydroponic Supply 6818 W Cheyenne, Las Vegas, NV 89108 702-750-9300 Hydro Store, The 7145 W. Ann Road, Las Vegas, NV 89130 702-434-9376 Nevada Hydroponics 4700 B Maryland, Suite 1, Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-798-2852 Anything Grows 190 West Moana Lane, Reno, NV 89509 775-828-1460 Everything Green Hydroponics P.O Box 34869 Reno, Nevada 89533

NEW HAMPSHIRE Hydro World 17 White Birch Lane, Lincoln, NH 03251 603-745-3030

NEW JERSEY

Garden State Hydroponics 511 Avenel Street, Avenel, NJ 07001 888-300-8711 Bergen County Hydroponics 70 Essex Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-2001 Green Touch 2 Hydroponics Inc. 888 Route 33, Unit 1, Hamilton, NJ 08619 HYDROP ONICS 609-570-8829 East Coast Horticultural Supply 1652 Hurffville Road, Swewell, NJ 08080 856-228-5290 77HYDRO 37 Fairfield Place, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 877-774-9376 Claraqua 4 Redwood Court, West Windsor, NJ 08550

greentouch2

NEW MEXICO

AHL Year Round Garden Supply 1051 San Mateo Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 505-255-3677 AHL Year Round Garden Supply 9421 Coors Blvd. NW Suite K, Albuquerque, NM 87114 505-899-0592 All Seasons Gardening 3600 Osuna Road, Suite 406 Alburquerque, NM 87109 505-508-4292 Common Shaman 1319 San Mateo N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-255-6463 All Seasons Gardening 1228 Parkway, Suite E Sante Fe, NM 87507 505-438-GROW Santa Fe Hydroponics 821 W. San Mateo Road, Suite 4, Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-467-8454

NEW YORK

Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 19 Front Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-2005; 800-850-4769 The Grape Vine 4020 Hempstead Turnpike Bethpage,NY,11714 516-731-1100 Bronx Hydro & Garden 39 Bruckner Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10454 718-993-3787 Bklyn Hydro & Garden 316 McGuiness Blvd Brooklyn NY 11222 718-383-0095 Brooklyn Farms 51Hicks Street St. Brooklyn, NY 11231 347-725-3491 Indoor Outdoor Gardener 8223 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-836-2402 Hydroponics of Buffalo 1497 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216 716-838-3545 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 340 West at 59, Central Nyack, NY 10960 California Hydroponics 27 Corporate Circle, East Syracuse, NY 13057 315-432-9387 Upstate Hydroponics 2026 Lake Rd unit B Elmira, NY 14903 607 483 9199 FutureGarden Inc. 59 Central Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-420-0884 East Coast Hydroponics 14649 Horace Harding Exp, Flushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880

INC.

Healthy Harvest Organics and Hydro 163 Broadway, Fort Edwart, NY 12828 518-480-4698 Greentree Nursery 308 Elmira Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-3666 Hudson Valley Hydroponics 217 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3633 Sunlight Solutions Hydroponics 2045 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Suite 13, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 888-GROWBOX The Grow Room 8 Bridge Street, Nyack, NY 10960 800-449-9630 Revolution Hydroponics 309 West State St. Olean NY 14760 716.373.Grow (4769) Mor Gro Hydroponics 5680 State Route 104 E Oswego , NY 13126 315-877-8725 Environmental Gardens 8 John Walsh Boulevard, Suite 310 Peekskills, NY 10566 800-254-0507; 914-736-6676 Harvest Moon Hydroponics Henrietta Townline Plaza, 3047 West Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623 716-865-7353 Hydro Garden Center 1069B Lyell Avenue, Rochester, NY 14606 1-800-277-1322 Sunset Hydroponics & Home Brewing 1590 West Ridge Road, Rochester, NY 14615 866-395-9204 KG Garden Supply 1327 Floyd Avenue, Rome, NY 13440 1-877-KG-HYDRO LiquidSun of New York 1702 Fiero ave Rotterdam, NY 12150 518-952-4654 Hydroponics Shops of America 2606 Erie Boulevard, Syracuse, NY 13224 315-251-2516 Green Zone Hydroponics 2148 Niagara Falls Blvd. Tonawanda, NY. 14150 716-693-9663 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 147 Fourth Street, Troy, NY 10960

NORTH CAROLINA

Fifth Season Gardening Company 21 B Westside Dr. Asheville NC 28806 828-225-5007 Fifth Season Gardening Company 45 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801 828-253-4112 Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 South Greensboro Street, Carrboro, NC 27510 919-932-7600 Be Well Hydroponics & Urban Gardening 4732 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-344-8010 BWGS-NC 4045 Perimeter West Drive,Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28214 800-316-1306 High Tech Garden Supply 2712 B Freedom Drive Charlotte, NC 28208 704-697-0911 Flow & Grow Hydroponics & Organic Garden Center 4521 Cumberland Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 910-423-FLOW (3569)

Fifth Season Gardening Company 1616 D-3 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27408 336-271-3373 Good Harvest Garden Center 629 Oakridge Farm Hwy. Mooresville NC 28115 704-658-9136 Fifth Season Gardening Company 5619-A Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606 919-852-4747 New Age Gardens 2236A US Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-299-9989 All Season Hydroponics 890 South Kerr Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28410 Progressive Gardens 6005 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-395-1156

OHIO

Akron Garden Center 434 W Wilbeth Road, Akron, OH 44314 330-724-2700 Summit Hydroponics 1030 Kenmore Boulevard Akron, OH 44314-2114 330-753-5222 Campbells Indoor Gardening Supplies 1721 Greenville Road Bristolville, OH 44402 330-889-0049 Magic Home Gardens 209 Cemetery Road, Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-837-2440 Dayton Hydroponics 4920 Provident Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45246 513-942-7111 Eastside Hydroponics 550 Ohio Pike Cincinnati, OH 45255 513-528-GROW Kissed by the Sun Hydroponic 10740 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 513-769-0159 Cleveland Garden Center Inc. 727 East 185th Street, Cleveland, OH 44119 216-481-7868 Grow Wizard, The 5700 Denison Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102 216-961-2500 Herb-N-Garden Center 14901 Puritas Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44135 216-252-2001 Garden Indoors of Ohio 4720 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 800-833-6868 Magic Home Garden 4538 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 614-263-2440 Garden Connections 3341 Centerpoint Dr. Grove City OH 43123 614 871 0707 Advanced Hydrorganics Indoor Garden Center 5204 Darrow Road, Hudson, OH 44236 234-380-1287 Sweet Greens 5540 Brecksville Road Independence, OH 44131 800-421-7084 Hydro Gardens and Lights 1144 N Memorial Drive Lancaster, OH 43130 705-65 Hydro Carefree Garden Center 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 CropKing 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 The Grow Shop 165 Davids St. Marion OH 43302 740 223 7467

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

189

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Urban Gardens 671 E. Center Street Marion, OH 43302 740-375-2800 Top Garden Products 8600 East Avenue Suite C. Mentor, OH 44060 440-290-8773 Indoor Gardens 1222 Hill Road, North, Pickerington, OH 43147 614-866-6065 Trinity Hydro Organics 465 Woodman Drive Riverside, OH 45431 937-252-GROW Toledo Hydroponics Ltd. 855 S. Holland-Sylvania Road, Suite 2 Toledo, OH 43615 1-877-893-0716 Greenleaf Hydroponics 1805 Elm Road, Warren, OH 44483 330-372-1039 Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, West Carrolton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 Harvest Moon 9215 Market Street, Youngstown (North Lima), OH 44452 800-776-8399 Indoor Garden Worx 906 Blue Avenue, Zanesville, OH 43701 866-900-9679

OKLAHOMA

Tulsa County Hydro-Organics 1928 W. Albany, Broken Arrow, OK 74012 918-259-HYDRO AAAAHA! Hydroponics Unlimited P.O. Box 74, Oakhurst, OK 74050 Organics OKC Garden Supply 3620 N Pennsylvania Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-528-GROW The OKC Urban Gardener 3711 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-521-9300 Urban Garden 3141 E. 15th Street, Tulsa, OK 74104 918-289-0018

OREGON

Aqua Serene 465 Applegate Way, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-7600 Astoria Indoor Garden Supply 1343 Duane St. Unit C Astoria OR 97103 503 468 0606 Rogue Silicates Inc. POB 21, Azalea, OR 97410 541-837-8590 B.I.G.S. 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 401, Bend, OR 97702 541-385-5222 Herb N’ Jungle Hydroponics 930 SE Textron Drive, Bend, OR 97702 541-382-4010 Northern Light and Garden Beaverton 9290 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-297-7331 Westcoast Organic and Hydroponic Supply 12410 SE 282nd Avenue, Unit C Boring, OR 97009 503-766-4106 The Good Earth Organics 30088 Redwood Highway, Cave Junction, OR 97523 541-592-4496 Anthony’s Garden & Light Supply 93779 B Troy Lane, Coos Bay, OR 97420 541-266-8822 Corvallis Hydroponics & Organics 5490 SW Philomath Boulevard, Corvallis, OR 97333 541-738-2820

190

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Aqua Serene 2836 W. 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97402 541-302-9073 Aurora Innovations PO Box 22041, Eugene, OR 97402 866-376-8578 SunInside Gardening Co. 665 Conger, Unit F, Eugene, OR 97402 541-686-9966 Advanced Indoor Gardens 17831 se 82nd drive Gladstone, OR 97027 503 305 6341 Northern Light and Garden Grants Pass 1203 Rogue River Highway, Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-1700 Paradise Supply LLC 560 NE. “F” Street, Unit C, Grand Pass, OR 97526 541-955-7293 Vital Organix 932-B SE “M” Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-226-9283 Oregon Rainforest Co. 19949 E. Burnside Street, Gresham, OR 97233503-465-9909 In & Out Gardens 93484 Hwy 99 South Junctin City OR 97448 541-234-2342 Basin Indoor Gardening 1221 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-273-2023 Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 1845 S W Hwy. 101 Ste. 3 Lincoln OR 97367 USA 541 994 7070 H2organic LCC 620 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503-434-6107 Green Thumb Hydrogarden and Organic Supply 2021 West Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 541-779-8600 Growing Crazy (Hooked On Hydroponics) 817 W. 2nd Street, Medford, OR 97501 In & Out Gardens 1574 Skypark Drive Medford, OR 97501 541-858-3333 Ladybug Indoor Gardens 3960 W. Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 541-618-4459 Advanced Organics & Garden Supply 290- B Merlin Avenue Merlin, Oregon 97532 541-659-1466 Indoor Garden Depot 15828 SE McGloughlin Boulevard, Milwaukie, OR 97267 503-786-2445 H2organic LCC 620 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503-434-6107 Wizard’s Garden, LLC 621 Spruce Street, Unit C, Myrtle Point, OR 97458 541-572-2333 Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 454 S.W. Coast Hwy Newport OR 97365 USA P: 541-265-8252 Gorilla Garden Supply 1810 Virginia Avenue, Garden Supplies North Bend, OR 97459 541-756-5005 American Agriculture 9220 Southeast Stark Street, Portland, OR 97216 800-433-6805 Bloom Garden Supply 518 NE 20th Ave. Portland, OR 97232 (971)255-1336 Everybody’s Garden Center 2701 SE 14th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202 800-669-5483

Garden Spout, The 4532 South East 63rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97206 503-788-4769 Homegrown Garden Supply 7112 NE Gilsan Street, Portland, OR 97213 877-EZ2-GROW Island Flowers & Indoor Garden Center 909 N. Tomahawk Island Drive, Suite 103, Portland, OR 97217 503-546-3185 Lights Distributing 9843 SW 55th Avenue, Portland, OR 97219 Rain or Shine 13126 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230 503-255-1981 Roots Garden Supply 5426 North Gay Avenue, Portland, OR 97217 503-285-4768 Urban Flora 2865 South East, Portland, OR 97214 503-236-3344 BIGS Warehouse 2606 SW 4th Street, Unit B Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-8886 Indoor Garden Supply 536 SW 6th Street (rear alley), Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-7750 DC Hydroponics & Organics 7275 Green Siding Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-679-3700 Roseburg Hydroponics 853 SE Stephens Street, Roseburg, OR 97470 541-229-1420 Indoor Garden Center 1697 SE 25th Street, Salem, OR 97302 503-566-7888 Northern Light and Garden Salem 1915 Lancester Drive, Salem, OR 97305 503-364-4769 Cascade Horticulture 39570 Pioneer Boulevard, Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-8242 Moonshine Park Farm 135 South East 62nd, Unit F South Beach, OR 97366 541-444-2298 J-N-B Hydro 2 Go 155 West Central Avenue, Sutherlin, OR 97479 541-459-9211 Samurai Greenhouse Supply 32067 Old Hwy. 34 Tanget, OR 97389 541-928-3431 Grow America Garden Supply LLC 11511 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, OR 97223 503-841-6868

PENNSYLVANIA

Pocono Hydroponic Solutions 25 Route 611 Bartonsville, PA 18321 Tel: 570-730-4544 Green Solutions Hydroponics 1700 Orange Street Berwick, PA 18603 570-752-1530 Garden Indoors of Pennsylvania 208 Route 13, Bristol, PA 19007 800-227-4567 422 GROW 1775 North Main Street Extension Butler, PA 16001-1327 724-561-3777 High Tech Garden Supply 20232 Route 19, Unit 6, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-473-1113 Easton Hydroponcis 437 N. Hampton St. Easton, PA 18042 484-373-3232 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 830 Route 119, Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-1118

All Good Hydroponics & Gardening 6729 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223 803-708-4819 All Season Hydroponics 6729 Two North Road, 10B Columbia, SC 29223 803-708-4819 All Season Hydroponics 1350 Hwy. 501 Business, Store 3&4 Conway, SC 29526 843-347-9266 Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830 Greenspirit Hydrogardens 3600 Unite 1 Hwy.17 S. North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 843-361-7777

Buds to Blooms Garden and Supply Co., LLC 509 Orchard Avenue Kennett Square, PA 19348 484-860-8056 Flairform POB 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 215-395-6353 RH Distribution POB 1417 Lansdale, PA 19446 888-545-8112 Hydro Ponics of Harrisburg 310 South 10th Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043 877-684-3808 Always Green Garden Supply 4400 Old William Penn Hwy Ste. 106 Monroeville PA 15146 412 646 1243 New Stanton Hydro 150 Post Ave. New Stanton, PA. 15672 724-635-0297 Full Bloom Hydroponics 84 South 24th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 888-872-3602 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 2008 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-232-7030 Healthy Gardens and Supply 1012 Lincoln Avenue, Prospect Park, PA 19076 866-32-HYDRO Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 9 North Main St. Washington, PA 15301 724-222-0200 Western Pennsylvania Innovative Gardening 1177 Pittsburgh Road, Suite 103 Valencia, PA 16059 724 - 903 - 0800 Organic Garden Center 800 Washington Blvd. Williamsport, PA 17701 570-322-3120 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 450 Grim Lane, York,PA 17406 877-779-7111(Northeast) PA Hydroponics & Home Gardening Supply 20 Quaker Church Road, York Springs, PA 17372 717-528-4175

SOUTH CAROLINA GreenSpirit Hydrogarden 1864 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-1GRO; 247 Garden Supply 535 D Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229 803-788-4445

TEXAS

UTAH

SOUTH DAKOTA

Green Earth Products Inc. 5700 Highway 79 S.,Unit 1, Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-1307

TENNESSEE

RHODE ISLAND

Oakworld Garden Center 39 West Street, Barrington, RI 02806 401-245-5705 Solar Seed Hydroponics, Inc. 2406 Putman Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814 401-710-9010 Organically Grown 768 Atwood Ave Cranston, RI 02920 401-944-0549 Hydro-Earth 1243 Mineral Springs Avenue, North Providence, RI 02904 401-305-5520 Mother Nature Hydroponics 1268 Post Rd. Warwick RI 02888 401 780 0600 LiquidSun® RI 1179 Central Avenue, Pawtucket, MA 02861 401-722-2724 Good To Grow 34 Nooseneck Hill Road West Greenwich, RI 02817 401-392-3100 Growin’ Crazy 93 Kingston Road Wyoming, Rhode Island 02898 401-284-0810

Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643 Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Drive, Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Highway, Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318 Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Road, Suite 104, Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005 All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188 Worm’s Way Tennessee 901 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37072 800-397-4153

Organic Garden & Feed 3801 N Interstate Hwy 35,Suite126, Denton Texas 76207 940-381-9890 Earth Organics 1360 Lee Trevino Drive,Suite 105 El Paso, TX 79936 915-591-9500 Airline Hydroponics P.O. Box 980904, Trader’s Village #363, Houston, TX 77098 713-942-0484 Botani Garden 15120 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX 77083 281-575-1999 Houston Discount Hydroponics 9384 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77063 713-464-9406 Hydroponic Nation 9700 Almeda Genoa Road, Suite 108, Houston, TX 77075 281-501-9636 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Houston) 7730 A Park Place Boulevard, Houston, TX 77087 713-641-4769 Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply 6125 West Sam Houston Parkway, North Suite 206 Houston, TX 77041 713-856-8425 Texas Growers Supply 5990 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E. #602, Humble, TX 77396 281-441-3739 Field of Dreams Indoor Growing Supplies 5302 Slide Road Unit B,Lubbock, TX 79414 806-793-2901 Hydro Mart 3841 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-6114 Sol Organics & Hydroponics 1634 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210-366-9082 GreenMaker Nursery 3030 Northwest Loop, Stephenville, TX 76401 254-965-7273 Innergrow Hydroponics 24451 Interstate Highway 20, Wills Point, TX 75169 866-475-4769

Abundant Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 3101 Avenue E East, Marshall, TX 76011 817-649-0100 Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 4360 S.Congress Avenue, #310, Austin, TX 78745 512-444-2100 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Central Austin) 5126 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78756 512-459-4769 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (South Austin) 2125-A Goodrich Avenue, Austin, TX 78704 512-440-4769 Happy Harvest Hydroponics & Organic 1500 C rescent Drive, Suite 202 Carrollton, TX 75006 972-466-1300 GroGreen Hydroponics 4015 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-370-9984 Jolly Green Hydroponics (Greenhouse Horticultural Supplies) 13628 Neutron Road, Dallas, TX 75244 (866) WE-JOLLY; 469-341-5555 Lone Star Hydroponics and Organics 1302 Motor Circle, Dallas, TX 75207 214-634-9376 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Dallas) 3400 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-744-4769

Wasatch Hydroponics 4050 South Howick, Suite 11E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107 801-716-4133 Salt Lake Plant & Hydro 60 West 3300 S. #6 South Salt Lake, UT 84115 801-488-3200

VERMONT Greenthumb - Vermont 394 Route 15, Jericho, VT 05465 802-899-4323 Peak Hydroponic Garden Supplies 20 School Street, Plainfield, VT 05667 802-454-8000 LiquidSun® VT 1 Bellows Falls Road, (Route 5 North) Putney, VT 05158 802-387-1100 Green Thumb Gardening P.O. Box 235, Route 15, Underhill, VT 5489 800-564-9376

VIRGINIA Fifth Season Gardening Company 900 Preston Ave. Charlottesville VA 22903 434-293-2332 Clean & Green Technologies 196 Corning Drive, Christiansburg, VA 24073 866-694-1628

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

191

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

I Love Hydroponics 612 N. Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Lucky Roots 612 North Sheppard St. Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Blue Ridge Hydroponics & Home Brewing Company The Williamson Road Plaza, 5327 D Williamson Road Roanoke, VA 24012 540-265-2483 Inside-Out Garden Supply 6517 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22150 703-451-3259 I Love Hydroponics 368 Newtown Road, #105, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-490-5425 Hydroponics & Growlights 13400 Occoquan Road, Woodbridge, VA 22191 703-490-0700

West VIRGINIA Panhandle Hydroculture 800 East Moler Ave. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-240-7587

WASHINGTON Island Horticulture Supply 8608 S March Point Rd. Anacortes WA 98221 360 293 0000 Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 6121 172nd Street NE #A, Arlington, WA 98223 (360) 474-1900 Belfair Garden & Lighting 24090 NE State Route 3 #F Belfair,WA 98528 360-275-2130 Green Gardens Distributing 12738 Bel-Red Road, Bellevue, WA 98005 425-454-5731 Northern Lights Gardening 4159 Hannegan Road, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-715-8585 Liquid Sunshine Hydroponics 5087 Lincoln Road, Blaine, WA 98230 Kitsap Garden & Lighting 2130 6th Street, Bremerton, WA 98312 360-377-1277 M & R Lighting Unit C 22914 Highway 410, Buckley, WA 98390 253-891-4190 Indoor Tropics 5930 Sunburst Lane #B Cashmere, WA 98815 509-470-7782 Garden Smart 500 Bond Drive, Castlerock, WA 98611 360-274-7960 Grow Center, The 615 South Fir DeerPark WA 99006 509-276-GROW Healthy Grow Indoor Garden Supplies 10 SE Everett Mall Way Suite B Everett WA 98208 425-374-2227 Indoor Garden Depot 1401 S. 324th Street, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-874-1112

192

Maximum Yield USA | August 2011

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

North West Hydro Supply 1355Pacific Pl Unit 117 Ferndale WA 98248-7824 360-778-3254 Good 2 Gro 3507 W Clearwater Ave. Kennewick WA 99336 509 737 1313 Indoor Garden & Lighting 714 South Central Avenue, Kent, WA 98032 253-373-9060 Kent Garden Supplies Ltd. 18817 East Valley Highway, Kent, WA 98032 425-251-9299 Grogro Hydro 12403 NE. 124th Street, Kirkland, WA 98034 888-7-GROGRO 425-820-6200 KP Indoor Garden Store 8912 Key Peninsula HWY N Lakebay, WA 98349 253-884-SURE (7873) InDoor Gardening 1158 Commerce Longview WA, 98632 360-353-3851 Indoor Garden & Lighting 20505 Highway 99,, Lynnwood, WA 98036 425-673-2755 Go-N-Green Hydroponics 1241 State Ave Suite #102 Marysville, WA 98270 (360)386-8230 Green Acres Indoor Garden & Lighting 514 State Ave Suite #102 Marysville, WA 98270 360-658-GROW (4769) Island Hydroponic & Supplies 1515 5th Street #B, Marysville, WA 98271 425-299-5855 Mike’s Indoor Garden Supply 1204 East Wheeler Road, Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509)766-5856 M & R Lighting 17238 Memorial Drive, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-848-1080 Northern Lights Gardening 1524 Riverside Dr #2 Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-982-2217 Indoor Garden & Lighting 8606 Preston Fall City Rd. SE Preston WA 98050 425 222 9661 Linda’s Gardening & Hydroponics 11522 Canyon Road East, Puyallup, WA 98373 253-531-9641 Renton Indoor Garden Center 207 Sunset Blvd. N, Building A, Renton, WA 98055 425-917-9000 Eco Enterprises 1240 NE 175th Street, #B Shoreline, WA 98155 800-426-6937 Aqua Serene 3839 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-GROW (4769) Grogro Hydro 12316 32nd AVE NE #103 Seattle, WA 98125 Hydro-Tech 2121 Aurora Avenue, North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-2202

Sodo Hydro 1727 1st Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98134 206-682-9377 888-90HYDRO (904-9376) Northwest Horticulture Supply 161 Hooker Road, #1, Sequim, WA 98057 360-582-0702 509 Grow 2718 N Division Spokane, WA 99207 509-327-GROW(4769) Grow Center, The 2808 W Sprague Spokane WA 99202 509-456-GROW River City Hydroponics 1514 East Francis Avenue, Spokane, WA 99208 509-464-0246 Spokane Organic and Hydroponic Supply 4823 East Sprague Avenue E., Spokane Valley, WA 99212 509-534-4055 Green Tree Hydroponics and Garden 12316 Pacific Ave South Tacoma, WA 98444 253-536-1791 Indoor Garden & Lighting 3839 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406 253-761-7478 Solar Shop 306 West 4th Street, Tonasket, WA 98855 509-486-4508 Indoor Garden Depot 6400 NE Highway 99, Suite H, Vancouver, WA 98665 360-993-7779 National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 4525 NW Fruit Valley Road, Vancouver, WA 98660 888-478-6544 (Northwest) National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 5408 NE 88th Street, Building A, Vancouver, WA 98665 888-478-6544 VM Indoor Garden Supply 2903 NE 109th Ave Ste. D Vancouver, WA 98682 P: (360) 256-2933 Indoor Garden Supply LLC 1250 Atlantic Ave, Woodland, WA 98674 360-841-8055

WISCONSIN Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 1104 West Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton, WI 54914 920-574-3258 Grow BIG Hydroponics 954 S. Westland, Appleton, WI 54914 920-749-4769 Brew and Grow 285 N. Janacek Road, Brookfield, WI 53045 262-789-0555 Garden Supply Guys 752 Memorial Drive - Suite A Green Bay, WI 54303 920-857-9493 Brew and Grow 3317 Agriculture Drive, Madison, WI 53716 608-226-8910 Paradigm Gardens 4539 Helgesen Drive, Madison, WI 53718 608-241-3800

PUERTO RICO Tecno-Hydro Ave Campo Rico GJ17, PO Box 1450 Carolina, PR 00982 787-752-8252

Maximum Yield USA | July 2011

193

194

Maximum Yield USA | July 2011