Maximum Yield USA June 2012

USA

FREE

The

Water

Issue

Pure Water - Why it’s necessary for happy and healthy plants reboot Your roots - 10 basic steps the smart new plan for growing indoors year-round www.maximumyield.com

2012

Indoor gardenIng expo GREAT LAKES

SAN FRANCISCO

LONG BEACH

June 2 - 3

July 21-22

nOVeMBeR 3-4

MICHIGAN

CALIFORNIA

CALIFORNIA indoorgardeningexpo.com

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Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

CONTENTS June 2012

FEATURES 60

44

Reverse Osmosis: How to Get the Most out of Your RO System

by Jennifer Casey

60

Tap Water and its Impact on Hydro Products

by Casey Jones Fraser

68

Nutrient Element Mixing to Formulate a Nutrient Solution

by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr.

76

Dissolved Oxygen—the Hidden Necessity

by Eric Hopper

82

Water

by Grubbycup

68

82 88

Water Worries: Water Quality Issues and How to Deal With Them

102

The Year-Round Greenhouse

by Eric Brandstad

DEPARTMENTS

110

Contain Yourself: Seven Reasons to Consider Container Gardening

12

From the Editor

134

Green Thumb Gardening

16

Letters to the Editor

144

Avant-Gardening

20

MaximumYield.com

172

10 Facts On...

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

by Heather Brautman

116

A Root Primer

124

Organoleptic Quality—Which Nutrients Contribute to Good Taste?

22

Ask the Experts

174

You Tell Us

26

MAX Facts

176

Talking Shop

Total Control: Choosing the Right Cooling System

34

Product Spotlight

180

Coming up in July

by Stephen Keen

122

Growing for Health

182

Max Mart

146

Hydroponic Leeks

130

Beginner’s Corner

185

Distributors

154

Irrigation Water Quality

132

Tips and Tricks

198

Do You Know?

164

Get Smart—Grow Hydro: 1, 2, 3

by Matt LeBannister

by Frank Rausher

136

10

by Dr. Mike Nichols

by Guy Sela

by Chad Garbet

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

Cover photography: Jim Jesson

FROM THE EDITOR | JESSICa RaymOND “Water is the driving force of all nature.”

– Leonardo da Vinci Fresh water is one of our most precious resources.This is even truer when you consider that just 2.5 per cent of the Earth’s water is fresh and, of that, 70 per cent “is locked up in the form of glacial ice, permafrost or permanent snow” (ec.gc.ca).Water is necessary for all life on Earth, including our plants’ lives. It’s no wonder growers spend much of their time stressing about it—“Did I use too much? Did I use too little? Is it pure?”

Not to mention, “What’s in my water and is it okay to feed to my plants? Why should I care about dissolved oxygen? How do I use a reverse osmosis filter?”These questions and more are answered by our hydro experts in this special Water Issue, which is overflowing with fresh facts and essential information on H20.

This June issue also coincides with our highly anticipated Great Lakes Indoor Gardening Expo—in fact, many of you will be reading this letter and flipping through the magazine as you walk

the show. I want to take this opportunity to welcome you to the expo. I encourage you to pick up a passport (new this year) and visit each of the exhibitors for your chance to win great gear.

For even more chances to win free products, make sure to enter our bi-monthly Win Big...Grow Big contest at maximumyield.com/winbig-growbig Jessica Raymond, editor editor@maximumyield.com Happy growing!

Countdown to San Francisco

Our world-class San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo is coming back to the City by the Bay for the ninth year in a row. The new, bigger-than-life venue—the Concourse— will accommodate our growing industry. We look forward to seeing you July 22, 2012.Visit indoorgardenexpo.com or flip to page 201 for full details.

CONTRIBUTORS Casey Jones Fraser owns Garden

Eric Hopper has over 10 years of

Frank Rauscher is a certified

Jennifer Casey loves her two dogs,

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50

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

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.

Matt LeBannister developed a

Dr. Mike Nichols is a retired

Heather Brautman’s hydroponics knowledge consisted of her favorite ride at Walt Disney World’s before she moved to California in October 2011.

Since becoming Hydrofarm’s staff writer in February 2012, she’s been enjoying learning about grow media—like coco coir and perlite—not paparazzi. She has a master’s degrees in technical writing as well as PR/communications.

Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Guy Sela is an agronomist and a

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

Applying his background in water treatment, he has lead a variety of projects on reverse osmosis, water disinfection and water purification, providing high quality water for irrigation.

Stephen Keen has been an indoor gardening hobbyist for nearly 10 years. His personal successes with his garden led him to want to bring new ideas, mainly water-cooling, to the mainstream, which led to the founding of Hydro Innovations.

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.

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Happy Customer

via Facebook

Love your magazine! Like the way you focus on technique rather than products.

Bub's Allotment Did you know: A successful indoor gardener can easily produce seven to 10 times more food than a traditionally farmed plot of the same size outdoors?

I would like to know more, thanks.

Dan G. Flores Check out Matt Geschke's "Learn to Garden and Change the World— Growing Systems for Beginners" from the April 2012 Seeing Green Issue.

Did you know: A sulfur-plasma bulb is rated for 60,000 hours with virtually no depreciation of photosynthetically active radiation?

Nope. Do tell more?

David Benjamin They are super spendy.

Justin Mcdonald

Hi Maximum Yield, I think the magazine is great for growers young and old. It provides very useful information for growers.

I suggest you have a shop review page. You could have some photos of the shop and even get the shop owner to do an interview on what they grow or if they grow anything organically or hydroponically. It’s just an idea.

Can’t wait until the next magazine comes out!

Regards, Mark Dawson Thanks for your feedback Mark. We’re glad you’re enjoying the magazine and finding the articles informative. Regarding your suggestion to review shops, have you checked out Talking Shop? This monthly feature spotlights retail shops from across the country. This issue’s spotlighted retail shop is Green Bros Hydroponics. Flip to page 176 to find out what sets them apart.

A Local Point of View

Check out Eric Hopper's article "Eco-friendly Horticultural Lighting— The Future is Here" from the April 2012 Seeing Green Issue for more information.

I appreciate that Maximum Yield encourages the support of local business with the Talking Shop feature. More often than not, these are family-owned and -operated shops and they need more consumer support than they can afford to entice with expensive advertising. You provide them with the opportunity to efficiently introduce themselves to the market. The “At a Glance” bar is quite effective as well, providing contact information and directing readers to web stores (if applicable).

Keep it up, Peter Cowan

Grow Like A Pro June 3

Subscribe to Win

Umm you actually lost me.

Ron Korson

When will you be in Michigan? I think it's getting close and want to be sure to be there. When and where?

Thank you, Laurie Bartreau

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You contacted us just in time.

The Great Lakes Indoor Gardening Expo is open to the general public in just three days—June 3, 2012. Admission is $10 and the doors open at noon.

If you are ever in doubt about upcoming events and expos, stay tuned to indoorgardenexpo.com, Facebook.com/MaximumYield and follow us on Twitter @Max_Yield.

NSORS

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012 NUTRIEN TS

77

Every month we give away a special issue of Maximum Yield to one lucky eNews subscriber. If you aren’t subscribed, you can’t participate. Get involved, share your thoughts and participate in discussions monthly and you could win.

Sign up today at maximumyield.com/enews so you can start winning!

Maximum Yield Team

We want to hear from you!

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

18

Come see us at the Great Lakes expo in booths

205-207-209-211 304-306-308-310

COmING UP ON THE WEB Upcoming EvEnts

DoUblE YoUr FUn—‘grow likE A pro’ Expo toUr Hitting novi AnD sAn FrAncisco The ‘Grow Like A Pro’ Indoor Gardening Expo is coming to Novi, Michigan June 3 followed by San Francisco, California July 22. You won’t want to miss these two world-class events. Head to indoorgardenexpo.com for complete event details.

got QUEstions? gEt AnswErs. Maximum Yield’s resident experts are available and ready to answer your modern gardening questions.

E-mail editor@maximumyield.com or fill out the "Ask the Experts" question form on maximumyield.com

FrEE DigitAl sUbscription to mAximUm YiElD Now you can receive Maximum Yield USA free to your inbox every month.

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

Connect 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 maximumyield.com. It’s that simple!

connEct witH mAximUm YiElD

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

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

20

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

VoLUME 13 – NUMBER 3 June 2012 Maximum Yield is published monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

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

Publication Agreement Number 40739092 Printed In Canada.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson EDIToRIAL Editor-in-Chief Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com Assistant Editor Jessica Skelton jskelton@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES Director of Sales Raymond Henderson raymond@maximumyield.com Account Executives Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Hayley Jesson - hayley@maximumyield.com Emily Rodgers - emily@maximumyield.com Phil Shakespeare - phil@maximumyield.com DESIGN & PRoDUCTIoN ads@maximumyield.com Art Director Alice Joe alice@maximumyield.com Graphic Designers Jennifer Duong - jennifer@maximumyield.com Liz Johnston - liz@maximumyield.com Denise Higginson - denise@maximumyield.com ACCoUNTING Tracy Greeno - accounting@maximumyield.com Tara Campbell - tara@maximumyield.com USA DISTRIBUTIoN Aurora Innovations • BWGS • General Hydroponics Humbolt Wholesale • Hydrofarm • Hydro International National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply • Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply • R&M Supply • Tradewinds CANADIAN DISTRIBUTIoN Brite-Lite Group • Biofloral • Eddis Wholesale • Greenstar Plant Products Inc. • MegaWatt • Quality Wholesale UK DISTRIBUTIoN Direct Garden Supplies • Growth Technology • Future Harvest Development Europe • Hydrogarden Nutriculture UK • Dutch Pro • Maxigrow AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTIoN Dome Garden Supply • House N Garden • Futchatec • Growth Technology • Hydraspher

aSK THE EXPERTS

What is the best way to control primary mold?

Roger I am not entirely sure what you are referring to as primary mold but I do know how to battle molds, mildews and fungi. The best solution, in my opinion, is sulfur. Sulfur kills molds and mildews on contact. Sulfur can be bought in powdered form that can be dusted on the plant leaves. I like to use a soft brush and dust the leaves gently, as if I am a detective dusting for prints. This is most effective if you only have a few plants.

For getting rid of mold on a large scale I recommend using a sulfur burner. A sulfur burner will vaporize sulfur pellets, filling your room with a sulfur mist. When doing this make sure your ventilation is off for 10 minutes or so. Also make sure there are no exposed flames such as a pilot light, because it can ignite the sulfur mist.

There are other methods that are less effective but will do the trick.You can spray the plants with a diluted ammonia and water solution at one part ammonia to 20 parts water. This is effective and relatively safe. Neem tree oil sprays and pine tree oil sprays Matt LeBannister can also help eliminate mold. There are also a wide range of copper-based fungicides available. They are highly effective but only practical on a small scale.

To help prevent a recurring mold problem try to lower humidity levels and temperature in your grow room. Also keep your grow room immaculately clean, ensuring to wash equipment in between crops.

All of these solutions should be available at any quality hydroponic retailer, and the staff should be able to walk you through whichever choice you make. I hope this helps.

Sincerely, Matt LeBannister

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

MaRch heats Up

This March was the warmest ever in the continental United States, according to a report released in late April by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Twenty-one American cities saw nighttime temperatures break daytime high temtem perature records and more than 15,000 individual heat records were shattered across the country.

The trend wasn’t a nation-wide phenomenon, however—Alaska recorded the coolest March in history.

(Source: pbs.org)

MAXFACTS FACTS HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

Rain Men

For the last 14 years the data gathered by official government agencies recording rain, snow and hail across all 50 states has been supplemented by precise measurements gathered by the 15,000 volunteer members of the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or CoCoRaHS. The citizen-scientists of the CoCoRaHS network submit their data from many areas that weather stations don't record and are often even able to give early warnings about severe weather.

Anyone can join the network—the only requirement is that each member must purchase a rain gauge, and record and submit their readings daily.

(Source: pbs.org)

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

30-stoRy Wood skyscRapeRs on the hoRizon?

A new study by author and architect Michael Green suggests builders might begin to consider laminated wood products as the primary building material for structures up to 30 stories high. The study points out that heavy timber actually performs better in fire than structural steel because a layer of insulating and fireproof char forms on the outside of it when it burns, protecting the structural integrity of the wood.

Wood is a completely renewable building material, Green notes in the study, adding that “wood is typically the best principal material available for building structures with respect to embodied energy use, carbon emissions and water usage.”

The author has chosen not to copyright or otherwise protect the ideas he sets forth in the study, instead making them available to the public under something called a Creative Commons licence.

(Source: treehugger.com)

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

‘FloWeRing sWitch’ discoveRed

Following a five-year study, a team of researchers led

by Associate Professor Yu Hao from the Department of Biological Sciences at the National University of Singapore has identified the specific protein that triggers the process of flowering in plants.

After scanning around three million samples using a process called yeast two-hybrid screening, the researchers were finally able to identify a molecule they called FTIP1.

Professor Yu and his team are currently working on new studies that indicate that a group of FTIP1-like proteins are involved in a whole range of other plant developmental processes.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

BRUssels spRoUts still aWFUl

Apparently it’s not their fault your kids hate Brussels sprouts—researchers say that an aversion to bitter tastes is a survival instinct, since most toxins taste bitter too. As your kids age they’ll lose olfactory sensitivity along with a percentage of their taste buds and they will probably learn to like some of the foods they hated as children.

An interesting corollary of this theory has it that the reason many especially ‘big-tasting’ wines in recent years have won awards is that most distinguished wine critics are getting older and are finding subtle flavors harder to taste with their diminished senses.

(Source: popsci.com)

hass avocados likely ikely to Boost nUtRient aBsoRption

Scientists working on a study have told the American Society for Nutrition that preliminary results indicate that carotenoids (specifically beta-carotene) in foods are better absorbed into the body when eaten in combination with one Hass avocado.

"Our initial findings show that a greater level of carotenoids from a novel high beta-carotene tomato variety are absorbed and converted to vitamin A when consumed with Hass avocados compared to no avocados," said Dr. Steven Schwartz, functional foods professor at Ohio State University. "Hass avocados seem to have a natural ability to boost the body’s absorption, conversion and delivery of more nutrients."

(Source: freshplaza.com)

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

the secRet liFe oF plants

A documentary featured on Canadian network CBC recently revealed that plants actively forage for food, call in allies to defend against enemies and appear to nurture their young.

"Smarty Plants"—which aired on CBC-TV's The Nature of Things—used stop-motion photography to speed up the movements of plants as they hunted for food, shared resources with younger plants and used chemical secretions to call in predators to attack harmful caterpillars.

“Plants aren't these pretty, inanimate objects that gardeners work with. They're these incredibly vital, responsive organisms…and it turns out they're way more active than we ever imagined," explained director Erna Buffie.

(Source: cbc.ca)

FUngal epideMics on the Rise

going gReen in chicago

An anaerobic digester—a giant mechanical version of a backyard compost pile—is the centerpiece of Chicago’s first vertical aquaponics farm, which also features a brewery and a bakery.

‘The Plant,’ which is housed in an old meatpacking plant in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood, is an example of innovative green food production, with the ambitious goal of being net-zero energy and net-zero waste by 2015.

The anaerobic digester, set to go online in 2013, will produce methane gas that will be used to power the entire operation.

(Source: popsci.com)

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

Fungal diseases have been increasing in severity and scale since the middle of the 20th century and now pose a serious danger to global food security, biodiversity and ecosystem health, according to a study published in the journal Nature.

Fungal infections presently destroy at least 125 million tonnes of the top five global food crops—rice, wheat, maize, potatoes and soybeans—annually and scientists estimate that more than 600 million people could be fed each year by halting the spread of these diseases.

The authors of the study calculate that up to 900 million tonnes of food could be spoiled if fungal epidemics were to hit all the top five food crops in the same year, which would cause a global famine that could leave over 4.2 billion people starving.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

2012 plant haRdiness Map MoRe accURate

Gardeners all across the United States have been changing the way they grow—and trying out new crops—as a result of the first new USDA Plant Hardiness Map to be released by the Department of Agriculture since 1990.

The map divides regions into different growing zones based on the average lowest temperature. Since the 1960s, growers have used it as a guide to indicate which plants will survive best in a given climate.

The 2012 map doesn’t contain any information that is really startling—although winters do seem to be getting warmer—but 22 years of advancements in satellite mapping and weather recording technology has made it a much more accurate tool than the 1990 version.

(Source: pbs.org)

yoUng aMeRicans caRe less

An academic analysis of surveys spanning more than 40 years reported by the Associated Press has found that today's young Americans are actually less interested in the environment and in conserving resources than their parents were.

The study reported that only about five per cent of young Americans of voting age faithfully recycle. The study also suggests that today’s young citizens are less civic-minded than earlier generations and spend less time in contact with nature.

(Source: treehugger.com)

holy giant RoBotical sUnFloWeRs, BatMan!

A Massachusetts company is marketing a solar-powered stand-alone heliostat in the shape of a giant sunflower that tracks the sun with an onboard computer, directing heat and light to shady areas of the home and garden.

The Sunflower Home Heliostat is three feet in diameter, with a mirror surface of 760 square inches—roughly the area of a 42 inches TV screen—and can be assembled with nothing but a Philips-head screwdriver.

The company is marketing the device to consumers in North and South America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand for just under US$400.

(Source: treehugger.com)

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

yOUR GUIDE TO THIS mONTH’S ONTH’S

HOTTEST ITEMS ask for them at your local indoor gardening store

apollo 15 digital cycle timer With photocell Apollo 15 Digital Cycle Timer from Titan Controls gives you the precision short cycle timing that you’ve been looking for. The ‘integrated’ photocell provides the gardener with the ability to dial in precise timing for both day and night schedules. This comes in handy when enriching your growing environment with CO2, or setting up your garden’s watering times. A bar graph countdown display shows you the time remaining on your pre-set program, as well as when your program is complete. The ETL listing provides you with the confidence you’re looking for in your hydro gear. Plants just grow better when gardening with the Gods! Visit an authorized Sunlight Supply retailer for more information.

design it yourself With sunleaves duraduct kits Sturdy, reliable Sunleaves DuraDuct Kits make it easy to create or augment a ventilation system. These kits combine strong, thick ducting with the hardware needed to install a set-up that directs air wherever gardeners want it to go. Available in four, six, eight, 10 and 12 inch diameters, each kit includes 25 feet of 4.8 millimeter-thick ducting and two metal duct clamps. Visit your favorite indoor gardening shop for more information.

introducing the new Recycle Booster pump From growoniX GrowoniX just released their new Recycle Booster Pump. Used in conjunction with their Recycle Flow Box, the Recycle Booster Pump allows any EX or GX Series water filter to run waste ratios as low as ¼ to one—that’s ¼ gallon drain to one gallon pure filtred water. The Recycle Booster Pump comes equipped with a low pressure cutoff switch to safeguard the pump against runnning dry—in case the feed water supply stops. The Recycle Booster Pump sports a 300 psi stainless steel liquid-filled pressure gauge to monitor the system output pressure. The pump can be controlled manually with a standard 120 volt timer, or with GrowoniX’s ESOK electric shutoff kit. The Recycle Booster Pump’s ouput pressure is completely adjustable from 70 psi to 175 psi—doubling, even trippling GPD output! For more information, visit your local hydroponics shop.

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

introducing premier tech horticulture growing Media Hydroponic growers already know that many options for base growing media are available. But to max out your yield, it’s what you add to the mix that can really make a crop pop. Consider Premier Tech Horticulture’s Pro-Mix Mycorrhizae, available in general purpose and high porosity (available in two sizes) peat-based options. Add beneficial mycorrhizal inoculum to your greenhouse, cuttings and low-light growing areas with Pro-Mix. If you continuously battle root disease, let Pro-Mix biofungicide go to work for you. This medium, compatible with ornamental plants, fruit crops and many vegetable plants, works to beat back root disease while enriching your garden. For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retail shop near you.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT ebb and Flow kits From dl Wholesale Made from super durable, high quality plastic that’s heavier and thicker than the competition’s, DL Wholesale’s new Ebb and Flow fittings are the superior choice for your reservoir and flood table irrigation set-ups. The Ebb and Flow fittings consist of three basic parts: the fill and drain fitting, the filter fitting and the extension fitting—these allow you to customcustomize based on your water level. These fittings are available in one inch, ¾ inch and ½ inch sizes, perfect for most standard hosing, and are threaded to ensure a secure hold. These fittings are sure to exceed all your needs. Visit your local indoor gardening store for more details.

Recycle FlowBox From growoniX GrowoniX just reduced water usage by 75 per cent with their new Recycle FlowBox. The Recycle FlowBox works in conjunction with their Recycle Booster Pump and injects the drain water from the RO filter back through the membrane for another pass of filtering. A trio of laboratory quality flow meters allows the user to keep a close eye on exactly how the system is performing. The stainless recycle needle valve allows the user to adjust exactly how much drain water will be recycled back through the membrane.

The stainless drain needle valve allows the user to adjust the system waste ratio to as low as ¼ to one— that’s ¼ gallon of drain to one gallon of pure filtered water. Flushing the membrane is now a simple half-turn of the drain needle valve. For more information visit your favorite indoor gardening store.

Mercury 2 Fan speed controller The Mercury 2 Fan Speed Controller from Titan Controls extends the life of your ventilation fans. It accomplishes this by incorporating the exclusive ‘fire-up’ feature that activates your fan at 100 per cent for two seconds, then ramps the power down to your designated fan speed.

This protects the fan motor and is much less stressful for your fan over the long haul. The ETL listing provides the confidence you’re looking for in your hydro gear. Innovative solutions for your gardening problems brought to you by Titan Controls. Visit an authorized Sunlight Supply retailer for more information.

new geopot options GeoPot brings a new color to the mix, now serving up their GeoPot in both black and tan. Now you can get your favorite sizes of GeoPots—with handles or the Velcro-seamed Transplanter—in either black or tan. Their signature geotextile breathable fabric container air prunes your plants roots as they reach the edge of the container allowing the roots to branch out in more fibrous feeder roots. The signature quad-stitched side seam makes GeoPot even more durable so they can be washed and reused.

GeoPot helps keep gardeners true to their roots. For more information visit your favorite gardening shop.

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

introducing geopot’s new velcro-seamed transplanter GeoPot’s new Velcro-seamed Transplanter allows the side of the container to open for easy removal of root balls and makes transplanting quick and easy. This breathable fabric container air prunes your plants' roots when they reach the end of the container. This air pruning process forces the roots to branch out with more fibrous feeder roots. The geotextile fabric allows air into the root zone and provides great drainage. This combination of air root pruning and aeration of the root zone allows your plants to reach their fullest potential. All of the seams in the GeoPot product line are sewn with a high-quality bonded polyester thread that will withstand constant moisture and UV exposure. Available in black or tan. Visit your favorite gardening shop to learn more.

Roll along With the sunleaves portable composter The Sunleaves Portable Composter adds mobility to the mix, allowing gardeners to compost with flexibility. It has a 53 gallon capacity, and its rear wheels make it simple to relocate. Made from 90 per cent recycled materials, the Sunleaves Portable Composter also includes a built-in compost agitator for stirring the pile. The Sunleaves Portable Composter and other great Sunleaves products are available now at indoor and outdoor gardening shops across the country.

Fast Fit™ tray stand Sunlight Supply®, Inc. is pleased to announce the arrival of the Fast Fit™ Tray and Light Stands.

These revolutionary “no hassle” tool-less light and tray stands allows for quick and simple assembly in minutes. Designed and engineered for the pieces to simply slide together, the Fast Fit is truly a pioneer in the industry. The Fast Fit Tray Stands were created with heavy-duty steel and interlocking components. The simplicity makes it easy to configure. Never mess with nuts, bolts, wrenches or screwdrivers again with Fast Fit. Accommodates popular brand trays and reservoirs. Assorted add-on options available for many configurations and uses. Patent pending. Visit your nearest indoor gardening shop for more information.

vinyl tubing From dl Wholesale v Available in sizes ranging from 3∕16 inches to one inch and 25, 50, 100 and 1,000 foot lengths, DL Wholesale’s new Vinyl Tubing is made from super durable food-grade vinyl material, making the tube walls thick yet flexible, and can be used for water or air. This Vinyl Tubing won’t kink and is available in clear and opaque black (great for preventing algae growth). Our tubing has the ideal hardness to keep it from collapsing under negative pressure, yet it’s still easeas ily maneuverable. Vinyl tubing from DL Wholesale is the perfect tool to help you create your own custom irrigation system. Visit your local hydroponics shop for more details.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

introducing the ltl element 3 environmental controller From dl Wholesale The Element 3 by LTL Controls is a highly advanced, yet easy to use, controller for maintaining tempera temperature, humidity, CO2 and light within the growing area. The Element 3 features a highly accurate waterresistant remote sensor assembly consisting of a series of precision sensors. The controller is designed to resist EMI/EFI from electronic and digital ballasts, and features heavy-duty internal construction and high-quality UL/CE listed components to ensure years of operation. The Element 3 can be connected to a Windows-based PC, giving you the ability to manage and track settings on your computer. The Element 3 has outputs to control one cooling device, one heating device, one humidifier or dehumidifier, and one CO2 device. Visit an indoor gardening shop to learn more.

oasis® launches new Rootcubes® plus

growoniX introduce the eX-1000

Oasis® Grower Solutions is proud to announce a breakthrough in propagation with its new Rootcubes® Plus Growing Media, a rooting foam designed specifically for indoor hydroponic gardening. Created exclusively for propagation of slow-to-root vegetative cuttings, this new higher density, lower drainage foam shaves a few days off the propagation process. With its fine-cell design that increases contact between the media and the end of the cutting, Rootcubes® Plus foam enables quick and easy water uptake. Plus, its higher density grips cuttings tightly, keeping them in place. Rootcubes® Plus Growing Media is available in 50, 104 and 162 cell sheets. For more information visit your favorite indoor gardening shop.

The new EX-1000 reverse osmosis water filter from GrowoniX boasts the same stellar performance as their acclaimed GX Series. The EX1000 is a slimmed-down version at a fair price for the budget-minded consumer. GrowoniX designed the EX-1000 with the highest quality components available, but left out most of the expensive metal fabrication that encases the GX Series. The EX-1000 comes with a standard one to one ratio that can be reduced to ¼ to one with the addition of a Recycle Flowbox. The EX-1000 comes standard with a DOW high-rejection, high-flow membrane, washable sediment filter and eco-green carbon block. Two stainless steel pressure gauges monitor the condition of the pre-filters. Best of all, the EX Series comes in a tall version for increased carbon and sediment filtering—a must for growers on well water. For more information visit your local hydroponics shop.

ilF-10 inline Filter housing The ILF-10 inline filter housing by Black Box LLC will change the way you look at inline air filtration. Finally no more clamps to remove, no more washing and oiling your filter, no more dust on your lenses, no more bugs in your garden, no more wasted time. The ILF-10 is a permanent addition to your ductwork. With a vavariety of filter inserts, you can accomplish any level of filtration you desire. The ILF-10 is easily mounted using rope, chain or cable. Made from tough ABS plastic, the ILF-10 comes with a 10 year warranty against heat, cold, UV and water damage. The ILF-10 is your first line of defense in the battle for clean air. Visit an indoor gardening shop to learn more.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

introducing the Revolutionary Mistaponic cloner The patented Mistaponic Cloner is the latest innovation to storm the gardening world. What makes the Mistaponic Cloner truly unique is the technologically-advanced Vortex Mist Generator. The Vortex Mist Generator replaces the need for water pumps, air pumps, air stones or cooling fans.

Carbon filtered oxygen is drawn into the mist generator, pressurized and intermixed with water. This highly oxygenated water is reduced to six microns and gently misted onto the clones. Misting the clones is much more effective then abrasive streams of water that can damage fragile adolescent roots. The end result is abundant, snow white roots with sturdy foliage—sheer cloning perfection. For more information visit your local hydroponics shop.

excel air systems introduces Fabric duct air distribution system Excel Air Systems’ new high-quality fabric ducting is a complete do-it-yourself solution that can be set up in minutes. The standard Fabric Duct package comes with 15 feet of ductwork. The fabric is woven from custom polyester combination fabric and is permeable throughout the entire length of the duct.

This means the duct will never condensate with hot and cold air, keeping your room dry. The continuous airflow will also stop any buildup of dust on top of the duct. The Fabric Duct can be extended easily by zipping an additional section to an existing length. It's also completely washable.

Visit an indoor gardening shop for more information.

premium hydrofarm nursery pots have you heard of elektrox®?

The range of Elektrox® includes a product line of energy-saving lamps. Each of them is equipped with a built-in ballast of wattages from 85 to 250 watts.

Elektrox® provides them in three variants for different purposes: growth, bloom and duel (growth and bloom). The first one was especially conceived for stimulating the plant growth during the vegetative stage and for strengthening stems and leaves. The second variant stimulates the plant’s blossom and fruit formation, thus increasing its yield. Last but not least, Elektrox® supplies the dual lamp, which caters to both development stages. For more information visit your local hydroponic shop.

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The exclusive-to-Hydrofarm premium heavy-duty nursery pot collection features eight sizes, from one gallon to 20 gallons, made of injection-molded black plastic in the United States. No blow molding here, which can result in flimsy containers and quick cracks. Every Hydrofarm premium nursery pot is formed with a tough grip lip circling the top, handy for moving, pulling and carrying. Use the smallest size—six by seven by seven inches—to create a series of pots on a windowsill perfect for growing dinner seasonings and vegetables. Outside growers will find the largest size—17.5 by 19.5 by 17 inches—tough and accommodating as well. Mix and match the middle sizes to create a strong, solid nursery of your own year-round.

For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retailer near you.

Reverse Osmosis

bY Jennifer CaseY

How to Get tHe Most out of Your ro sYsteM Pure water is as iMPortant for Your Plants as it is

for You—find out How to use a reverse osMosis filter to Get tHe Most out of Your Garden and learn How to extend tHe life of Your filter MeMbranes at tHe saMe tiMe…

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reverse osmosis

Reverse osmosis isn’t a new idea in the world of hydroponic gardening— pure water is an integral part of any hydroponic system and most growers are aware of the need for water that’s free of contaminants. If you’re new to hydroponics or you have questions about water purification, though, then read on for a complete breakdown of reverse osmosis in layman’s terms.

parts per million, which indicates how even the worst news about your water many parts of nutrients there are per supply—chlorine or chloramines are million parts of water—we’ll refer to also generally added to your water this measurement as ‘ppm’ from here on. by your local municipality in order When your water comes out of the tap to kill bacteria and render the water it already has a ppm measurement that safe for drinking. Unfortunately, these must be accounted for before adding substances are great at killing plants as nutrients. This means that if you already well and are the reason plants like algae have 300 ppm water you’ll don’t grow in swimming pools and have to decrease the hot tubs.You’d probably never consider nutrients you using pool water for your plants, but administer by city water straight from the tap is really “tHe stuff that number just a milder version of the same stuff!

Present in Your to avoid Although some wells are ‘shocked’ water is also overloading with chlorine, generally well water often not onlY your plants. users don’t have to worry as much non-nutritious, This is a about chlorine or chloramines—but but MiGHt aCtuallY problem, calcium and magnesium are often be toxiC to Your though— found in much higher levels in well Plants.” because now your water. Additionally, contaminants such plants are getting as cadmium, arsenic, boron, manganese, fewer nutrients because hydrogen sulfide (for that just-peeled of the non-nutritious crap egg aroma) and iron can be present in that is present in your water source. The levels that are not only toxic to plants, stuff present in your water is also often but to the human body as well. Some not only non-nutritious, but might of these substances—though more actually be toxic to your plants. common to wells—are found in your Calcium and magnesium—minerals tap water too, as municipalities don’t found in almost all water—are important have the means to remove them. nutrients for both plants and the human body. The calcium and magnesium found First, let’s take a minute to examine why naturally in water, however, is present in we need pure water. Since ‘hydroponics’ the form of large blocky particles means growing plants in water without that bind against the roots of “tHe CalCiuM and the use of soil, then it makes sense that the your plants and can cause MaGnesiuM found quality of the water you employ should nutrient lockout—basically, naturallY in water...is be good. Pure water is also an integral the particles crowd up Present in tHe forM of part of soil gardening, so chemicals and against the roots and don’t larGe bloCkY PartiCles tHat other contaminants detrimental to the allow any of the good bind aGainst tHe roots health of your plants whether you grow stuff to get through. of Your Plants and Can hydroponically or traditionally. The water While this sounds Cause nutrient loCkout— you give your plants should be the best dramatic, it’s not basiCallY, tHe PartiCles you can make it. I say ‘make it’ because Crowd uP aGainst tHe you can control the contaminants in roots and don’t allow your water—you don’t have to be stuck anY of tHe Good stuff with that chemical tap flow from the municipality or the sludge in your well. to Get tHrouGH.” The nutrient feed formula you give your plants is based on a measure of

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

reverse osmosis

“You’d ProbablY never Consider usinG Pool water for Your Plants, but CitY water straiGHt froM tHe taP is reallY Just a Milder version of tHe saMe stuff!”

Now that I have you good and worried, let’s talk about how an RO system can rid your water of these nasty contaminants so you can have a healthy garden. Water purifiers for your garden come in two types: dechlorinators and reverse osmosis systems. The difference is an extra filtration step in the RO

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

systems. Dechlorinators employ two steps of filtration, the first being a sediment filter that traps large particles and keeps them from causing the next step/filter from getting clogged up.

Sediment filters can usually be rinsed and reused regularly before their annual replacement. The next step in filtration is the carbon filter, which removes chlorine from the water—if your municipality uses chloramines, you’ll want to use a special KDF carbon filter. Chloramine is a chlorine molecule bonded with an ammonia molecule. This chemical is used in place of chlorine because it lasts longer in the water and won’t bubble out and evaporate like chlorine will. Good for water treatment, but bad for your plants!

For simple dechlorinators this is

where it ends—chlorine, chloramines and sediment are removed and water is improved. Ppm will not be greatly

reverse osmosis

only lets certain things affected. If your water was under 150 through. The cell ppm out of the tap, this might walls of organisms be enough filtration for your (like humans plants. However, if your and plants) are ppm if higher than 150, “our skin is membranes and if you have any funky a MeMbrane allow certain contaminants in your tHat lets soMe water or if you simply tHinGs in but want the purest water keePs tHinGs like for your garden, an RO baCteria out.” system is what you need.

This is where the membrane comes in. In RO, a membrane looks like a plastic cylinder with a hole in either end.

It’s called a membrane because the process of osmosis is actually the diffusion of water through a membrane, which is a barrier with small openings—or pores—that

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substances through but lock others out.

Our skin is a membrane that lets some things in but keeps things like bacteria out.

An RO membrane works the same way—it’s composed of a super-thin sheet of polymer punctured with tiny holes. By tiny I mean 1/1,000th of a micron, the perfect size for a water molecule to pass through. The sheet of polymer is then rolled up to create layer after layer.

When the water is directed into the membrane, it has to diffuse through all these layers, meaning every single water molecule of purified water has to go through hundreds of these

reverse osmosis

tiny openings. It’s like an exclusive night club—the bouncer only lets the right kind of molecules past the velvet rope. If you have used an RO system, you might have been surprised that the water didn’t come out immediately and with as much volume as it went in.

Well, now you know why—it’s been waiting in line to get in to the club! It takes time for the good water to pass through the membrane molecule by molecule and the rest passes out of the membrane as waste water.

People new to the process of RO are often surprised by the waste water factor; that is, the amount of purified water that remains for each measure of unpurified pure water. Most systems are built to support a ratio of three parts waste water to one part pure water—they are built this way because this ratio best supports the life of the membrane. Bear with me while I extend the nightclub metaphor—some molecules just don’t make it into the club. Calcium, magnesium and various other contaminants won’t get past the bouncer.

This also helps explain why so much waste water is necessary. It’d be nice if these contaminants simply left, but they’re stubborn and kind of belligerent and they need to be forced to leave. The bouncer turns them away at the door, but then they hang around causing trouble, so good water molecules have to wash them away to make them go. The contaminants are stubborn and want to hang around the door fighting with the bouncer. The more waste water there is, the easier it Continued on page 56

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55

reverse osmosis Continued from page 52

is on your membrane (bouncer). Should you choose to use a flow restrictor to reduce your waste water there won’t be as much waste water to help wash those contaminants away and you may decrease the lifespan of your membrane.

Damage to your membrane can happen in one of two ways: it can become either ‘fouled’ or ‘corroded.’ When contaminants build up in the membrane they won’t allow any other molecules through those tiny pores—effectively shutting down the club—or they might actually smash right through the opening, enlarging it and rendering it an ineffective barrier. Basically, they take out the bouncer and then anything can get in. In the former case, the membrane becomes clogged up—this is called fouling or saturating the membrane—and it will cause a dramatic decrease in your flow rate. Where there was a healthy

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

stream there will only be a trickle, than later because you are concentrating because those water molecules can’t get the water and you might be going through. Should you neglect to change through membranes a bit your carbon prefilter, you will have the more quickly than opposite problem—as the chlorine that is before. If saving water now getting through your tired carbon is of primary filter will enlarge the openings and importance ‘corrode’ the membrane. Now the this could flow rate will actually increase, be a which seems great—until a ppm reading reveals that your rejection rate has decreased and you are no longer getting clean water. Either of these two things might have happened when it’s time to change your membrane, but restricting your waste water might mean that they have happened sooner rather

reverse osmosis

good trade, but individual needs the water by getting a water test or vary from person to person. checking with When considering how to best extend the life your local water “onCe You of your membrane, it’s treatment start usinG Pure good to recognize that center will water in Your this fouling/corroding help you to Garden, tHe issue also depends on choose the differenCe will what’s actually in your right prefilter, aMaze You.” water. If your water is such as a very high in chlorine KDF—or, or chloramines, in the corroding will be the presence main issue. If your of iron, water has iron or very a philox high mineral content, filter. If then fouling will you have hard occur. In both cases, water, a water softener is also an excellent proper prefiltration can help preserve way to preserve your membranes. It your membranes. Finding out what’s in works by exchanging hardness (minerals)

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for salt, which doesn’t sound too plantfriendly—but salt is actually the ideal contaminant for RO to remove. It doesn’t get in the club but takes the rejection politely, leaving your membrane intact and still able to perform its job.

It’s a good idea to explore what’s in your water. Start by finding the website of your local municipality or by doing an Internet search of your area and its water content.Your local hydro store is also an excellent resource—the employees there know all about what’s in the local water and can guide you to the product that will work best for you. And when you do get your RO system, be sure to change those prefilters to protect your membrane and save money. Once you start using pure water in your garden, the difference will amaze you. MY

by Casey Jones Fraser There’s no point in feeding your garden expensive nutrients if the stuff in your tap water is keeping the plants from absorbing them‌

Water is the basis of any hydroponics set-up. Nutrients and supplements are added to the water, which they mix with and change. Water and the various elements found in it also have an effect on nutrients and supplements—to put it simply, nutrients change water and water changes nutrients.

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Tap WaTer

Chlorine and Chloramines

The most common issue regarding tap water and hydroponics is chlorine. Many growers don’t realize that chlorine is a micro micronutrient required by plants. The quantity they need is extremely minimal, though, so you do not ever need to add any. Most growers add chlorine without realizing it, since it is already in tap water—this is a rookie mistake. Because plants can absorb this micronutrient, they take in far too much from unfiltered tap water. The result is diminished growth.

Root health is also disturbed by

many growers don’t realize that Chlorine is a miCronutrient required by plants. chlorine; beneficial bacteria and fungi are quickly killed off by this bleach-y element. The microflora and microfauna living in the root zone are key to high yields and healthy vigor—without bacteria, organic nutrients would be unavailable to roots. Don’t let chlorine kill the good guys!

Chloramines are chemical compounds of ammonia and chlorine that are also often used as municipal water supply sanitizers. Chloramines do not evaporate from water the way chlorine does and many water filters that remove chlorine cannot remove chloramine. The effects of chloramine on your garden are even more detrimental than chlorine.

To avoid the problems caused by these chemicals, invest in a water filter and make sure it takes out both chlorine and chloramine. The improvement you’ll observe in plant health will be considerable, which should translate to a substantial increase in your harvest as well.

hydroponiCs and Chelates

Chelates keep nutrients, especially micronutrients, suspended in solution. Without chelates, some of the valuable elements in your hydro system would lock onto each other, forming chemical compounds that are worthless to your plants. Think of chelates as Teflon coatings for nutrients, keeping things free and available instead of stuck to something. Chelates can be chemical, like EDTA, or organic, like humic acid. All hydroponic base nutrients contain chelates for maximum nutrient availability.

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63

Tap WaTer

As previously discussed, chlorine is technically a micronutrient. When high-quality hydroponic chelates come into contact with it, chlorine becomes even more likely to enter your plant’s

think oF Chelates as teFlon Coatings For nutrients, keeping things Free and available instead oF stuCk to something. vascular system. In other words, chlorine is even worse for your plants in the presence of high-quality nutrients.

Don’t let chlorine and chloramine use your nutrients against you—visit your local hydro shop and source out a filter that removes both substances, not just chlorine.

the bubble has popped

Some growers used to ‘bubble out’ the chlorine in their solutions, meaning they would use an air stone and let the water sit out for 24 to 48 hours. With new technology, though, these chemicals are now just too tenacious to evaporate completely using this method. Again, the only reliable solution is a quality water filter.

Most growers who switch from bubbling out to filtering report immediate improvements in plant health and garden performance. I made the switch several years ago and the results have been outstanding.

most growers who switCh From bubbling out to Filtering report immediate improvements in plant health and garden perFormanCe.

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Tap WaTer

water + oxygen = happy roots

do your garden a Favor and add a diverse blend oF beneFiCial baCteria to your solution—among the many beneFits oF these miCrobes will be white roots and big Fruits.

When growing in hydroponics or using nutrient solutions, it is important to oxygenate the water.

Experienced growers know that ideal water temperatures combined with motion are the keys to a healthy reservoir. It might also surprise you to know that bacteria are another step in the process to improving water.

Beneficial bacteria want an aerobic (oxygen rich) environment.

When we provide cool temperatures and water movement, some strains of bacteria will actually pull in oxygen and make it part of the solution. Do your garden a favor and add a diverse blend of beneficial bacteria to your solution—among the many benefits of these microbes will be white roots and big fruits.

ph adJusters

Here we have another conundrum: incorrect pH levels reduce growth—however, correcting the pH level will also alter nutrient levels.

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When scientists formulate hydro nutrients, they try to achieve the perfect nutrient ratios. Chemical pH adjusters contain phosphorus, potassium and other elements. Although our goal might be to correct our pH level, we end up changing the nutrient levels in the process.

Another danger of pH adjusters is going too far in one direction or the other. If you accidentally drop the pH level to five, you then need to raise it up a bit—but now you’ve added acid and base to the same solu solution, which creates un unwanted salts and altered nutrient ratios.

Now consider the living organisms in your reservoir. We want to encourage beneficial inoculants, not poison them.

Chemical pH adjusters in their concentrated form will kill many symbiotic organisms in your reservoir.

When using pH adjusters, add them sparingly. Overwatering and warm water can also cause pH problems—not to mention root rot—so avoid those pitfalls as well. For information on how to avoid pH adjusters altogether, check

out my article "Soilless Salvation and pH Perfection" from the January 2011 issue of Maximum Yield.

wetting agents

If you fling some clean water on a pane of glass, you can see that the droplets form into rounded beads. This is the natural tendency of water, due to its surface tension. If you do the same with soapy water, the droplets spread out much farther than they would without the soap.

Clean water creates a lump; soapy water creates a film.

My physics professor, Dr. Benjamin Malphrus, used to say,“Soap makes water wetter.” Wetting agents like soap cause water to coat surfaces, rather than just rest on them—that’s why we use these products with foliar sprays to achieve an all-over coating effect.

The same rules apply to roots. When wetting agents are used in your nutrient solution, the mix will spread over the surface of the roots, increasing the efficiency of nutrient applications.

Some common wetting agents include coconut extracts, quillaja saponaria (soap bark extract) and organic castile soaps.

my physiCs proFessor, dr. benJamin malphrus, used to say 'soap makes water wetter.'

CalCium, magnesium and ro systems

Measure the water coming out of your tap with an EC or PPM meter. If your water is like most, it probably contains 150 ppm or even higher levels of unwanted salts. This level of salt in your water limits the amount of inputs you can add. If your nutrient recipe is designed to achieve 1,300 ppm and you use salt-laden tap water, the results will be over 1,450 ppm. These unintended salt increases might burn your plants or interfere with your nutrient regimen.

What is that 150+ ppm comprised of, anyway? Often it consists largely of calcium and magnesium.You might think, “Great—I needed that anyway!” but you would be mistaken.

The particular forms of calcium and magnesium that are contained in municipal water are often the large-molecule variety—and large molecules cannot fit into the small pores on plant roots. They are not absorbed by plants, but instead just attract other calcium molecules with a snowball effect.

The only way to reduce salt content is with a reverse osmosis filter. RO filters might seem expensive, but damaged nutrients and calcium lockout can cost more than filtered water. RO units made for the hydroponics industry include carbon and sediment filters to deal with the problems discussed in previous sections, so they have multiple advantages. Like most of my recommendations, the main goal here is healthier plants and bigger yields.

soaking it up

When we learn how water and nutrients impact each other we can use them more effectively. Some growers just add a dash of this and a dash of that and top it off from the tap— others achieve their goals by learning about, carefully measuring and thoroughly testing every liquid they use. If you want to grow like a pro, get to know your water! MY Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

67

Nutrient

Element to

formulate Nutrient aSolution

BY Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr

The following article instructs on how to make your own nutrient solution and address all your garden’s requirements— perfect for the DIY enthusiast.

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The selection of a nutrient solution formulation is an important decision for the hydroponic grower—not only in terms of plant performance considerations, but in terms of cost and compatibility with the growing method being employed.

It is not possible to combine all of the required elements necessary to formulate a nutrient solution in a single liquid concentrate. This means that the hydroponic grower has three options, which include using: • liquid concentrates that contain an element or suite of elements • single or multiple-element reagents in their solid form (table one) • homogenized mixtures of reagents in solid form Each of these methods has their advantages and disadvantages, based on ease and suitability of use. Weighing each individual reagent offers the greatest flexibility in preparing a formulation, while the use of the other two options is limited to what is commercially available and is therefore of limited flexibility.

In today’s marketplace, liquid concentrates are readily available in a wide range of formulations, some designed for specific

It is not possible to combine all of the required elements necessary to formulate a nutrient solution in a single liquid concentrate.

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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NuTrieNT elemeNT mixiNg...

taBle 1. Reagents (FoRMUla) FoR pRepaRing a coMplete nUtRient solUtion Major ElEMEnt SourcE rEagEntS

ElEMEnt SuppliEd

Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4)

potassium and phosphorus

Potassium nitrate (KNO3)

potassium and nitrate-nitrogen

Calcium nitrate [Ca(NO3) 2.4H2O)

calcium and nitrate-nitrogen

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4.7H2O)

magnesium and sulfur

Diammonium hydrogen phosphate [(NH4) 2HPO4]

ammonium-nitrogen and phosphorus

MicronutriEnt SourcE rEagEntS

ElEMEnt SuppliEd

Boric acid (H3BO3)

boron

Manganese sulfate (MnSO4. 4H2O)

manganese

Copper sulfate (CuSO4.5H2O)

copper

Ammonium molybdate [(NH4)5Mo7O24.4H2O]

molybdenum

Ferrous ammonium sulfate [FeSO4(NH4) 2SO4.6H2O]

iron

Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.7H2O)

zinc

Normal procedure is to prepare liquid concentrates for each of the major elements and a single concentrate containing all of the micronutrients—the nutrient solution is then prepared by adding an aliquot of each concentrate to a specific volume of water.

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Maximum Yield USA | May June2012 2012

applications in terms of plant status or growing method. These liquid concentrates contain an element or suites of elements— the number and volume of such concentrates required to constitute a nutrient solution determined by whatever formulation is being made. Such concentrates appeal to the small-scale grower due to their ease of handling, although the obtained formulation might not be the most desirable for the plant species being grown or the hydroponic growing method employed.

In some instances, a concentrate might contain a substance or substances that the gardener does not require for his particular grow—in this case, the grower must make a compromise based on the best-option result. Some concentrates are suspensions— not true solutions—which must be well-mixed (shaken) when drawing an aliquot. The aliquot should then be allowed to go into solution before the next concentrate is added.

Formulating a nutrient solution by weighing reagents into a specific volume of water provides the grower with the greatest flexibility in terms of elemental concentration in the solution, but requires the ability to accurately weigh each reagent (see table one). In my book (Jones, 2005, pages 90 to 100), I list numerous nutrient solution formulations using elemental source reagents—many formulations having designated use applications. The grower might find the preparation of the micronutrient portion of the nutrient solution tedious and challenging, and the handling and storage requirements for these reagents can also be a nuisance. For the large volume user, however, this is the best option available. Depending on grade, the quality of the reagents can be a factor that can affect solubility and

NuTrieNT elemeNT mixiNg...

There is a correlation between the elemental concentration in a nutrient solution formulation and the volume of nutrient solution applied with each irrigation.

freedom from unwanted contaminates. When preparing concentrates, making the solution acidic and warm can significantly affect dissolution.

The purchase of a solid matrix of reagents makes for ease of handling, but limits the user to what has been selected for inclusion in the element mix. There are nutrient solution formulation mixes that can be prepared by volume measurement and do not require an analytical balance—a solid matrix formulation recipe is given in my book (Jones, 2011, pages 64 to 65). For the large-volume user this choice can be appealing based on the ease of preparing the nutrient solution, although the formulation might not be the most ideal for the plant species being grown or the hydroponic method being employed.

After a nutrient solution is formulated and ready to be used, it is a good idea to check the pH and electrical conductivity (EC), and to have the solution assayed for its elemental 72

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

NuTrieNT elemeNT mixiNg...

content to verify that all the required elements are present at their optimal concentrations.

Most hydroponic growers have limited knowledge regarding the effect that use factors have on how a selected nutrient solution formulation will affect plant growth and the nutritional status of the plants, those factors being the volume of nutrient solution supplied with each application and the frequency of application.

There is a correlation between the elemental concentration in a nutrient solution formulation and the volume of nutrient solution applied with each irrigation. In general, the greater the volume of nutrient solution applied with each irrigation, the weaker the elemental concentration can be, so that the actual elemental exposure is equal. In fact, as the elemental concentration declines, there are less synergistic and antagonistic interactions among the element ions that can affect nutrient element root absorption. With increased frequency of nutrient solution applications or a higher elemental concentration there is an increase in the potential for elemental ion accumulation—frequently referred to as ‘salts’—and elemental combinations resulting in the formation of precipitates in the rooting medium, both undesirable conditions that can adversely affect the nutritional status of your plants.

For some growers making a selection from what is available commercially as concentrates—either liquid or solid—might be sufficient. However, for the commercial grower the use of source reagents is the best option since the elemental content of the prepared nutrient solution formulation can be specifically set and combined with the use factors to minimize the potential for plant nutrient element insufficiencies. MY References: Jones, Jr., J. Benton, 2005, Hydroponics: A Practical Guide for the Soilless Grower, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. Jones, Jr., J. Benton, 2011, Hydroponic Handbook: How Hydroponic Growing S ystems Work, GroSystems Inc., Anderson, SC. 74

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Dissolved

Oxygen —the Hidden Necessity

by Eric Hopper

You can’t see it and you don’t even know it’s there—but the dissolved oxygen in your water supply is absolutely critical to maintaining the health and vitality of your plants.

Of all the amazing substances found on this Earth none are as precious and integral to biological life as water.Water, as we all know, is made up of oxygen and hydrogen atoms, but between the water molecules is a different form of oxygen: molecular oxygen. Molecular oxygen—more commonly known to gardeners as dissolved oxygen—is the oxygen used by aquatic creatures and the aerobic organisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere.Water quality evaluations performed for aquatic life applications rate water quality in relation to its dissolved oxygen content—the more dissolved oxygen, the better the water quality.This standard should be applied to water used for plants, too—especially plants in hydroponic systems.

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The importance of dissolved oxygen Good-quality water that includes a high dissolved oxygen content is absolutely crucial to successful indoor horticulture. The most significant benefit of water with a high dissolved oxygen content is the stimulation of beneficial aerobic organisms. Most beneficial microorganisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere will only survive, thrive and reproduce in an oxygen-rich environment. Too little dissolved oxygen creates a compounded negative effect—as the beneficial organisms die out because of the lack of dissolved oxygen, the ideal conditions for anaerobic pathogenic organisms are also created. Almost every pathogenic disease related to the plant’s rhizosphere is anaerobic and can be

DissolveD oxygeN

"Most beneficial microorganisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere will only survive, thrive and reproduce in an oxygenrich environment."

avoided by providing sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen. Another benefit of highly oxygenated water is that dissolved oxygen regulates the availability of certain nutrients—for example, some studies have shown the number of nitrifying microbes increases with the level of dissolved oxygen.Without sufficient dissolved oxygen content, the nitrogen cycle in your soil can be compromised.

Physical factors that affect dissolved oxygen There are two physical factors that affect dissolved oxygen content relative to indoor horticulture: temperature and salinity. Salinity is less crucial than temperature because by the time a medium or nutrient solution’s salinity level is high enough to affect dissolved oxygen content chances are good that the plant will have already shown signs of over-fertilization or toxic salinity.Temperature, however, is the most crucial and controllable factor associated with dissolved oxygen.Temperature inversely controls the solubility of oxygen in water—in other words, as temperature rises, the dissolved oxygen content falls; and as temperature decreases, the potential dissolved oxygen content increases. If this wasn’t bad enough, the damage is intensified because this inverse relationship with oxygen and water is exponential—so when temperatures rise in your grow room, the dissolved oxygen content in your hydroponic system or grow medium exponentially decreases.This is the number one reason temperature control of the nutrient solution in a hydroponic nutrient reservoir is so crucial.

Temperature control for water The first way to control the temperature of your water is to control the temperature of the room itself—soil containers, hydroponic systems, hydroponic reservoirs and anything else in the grow room will eventually take on the ambient temperature of the room.

This is one of the reasons you see plants grown outdoors in 100°F heat that survive, even flourish, while indoor gardens that reach 100°F usually end up with severe casualties.The plants grown outdoors can withstand 100°F+ temperatures because their roots 78

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and the moisture around them are insulated by the ground.The dissolved oxygen and beneficial aerobic organisms in the soil are unharmed by the heat and continue to function, allowing the plant to continue growing. Now take a look at your indoor plants in the same kind of heat.Their roots are in some sort of soil container or hydroponic system, they are completely surrounded by the ambient air in the room and plants, roots, medium and all will eventually become the same temperature as the room—in this case, 100°F+.

Once the water in the soil or hydroponic system gets that hot, the dissolved oxygen content is so low that beneficial aerobic organisms will die off and pathogenic anaerobic organisms will find favorable conditions to thrive and destroy your plants. A little-known fact in the indoor gardening industry is that the stress imposed on plants by high temperatures is usually the result of a decline in dissolved oxygen in the medium or hydroponic system—this harms beneficial microbes and in turn harms the plants. By implementing air conditioners, exhaust and intake fans and air-cooled reflectors, however, an indoor horticulturalist can effectively control the ambient temperature—which will help to maintain sufficient dissolved oxygen in the medium or hydroponic solution.

Water chillers Water chillers have become an increasingly popular tool for the hydroponic gardener. Any hydroponic system that is susceptible to heat from the environment or employs large submersible pumps should absolutely be equipped with a water chiller, which is essentially an air conditioner for water.These handy devices—available at virtually any hydroponics retailer in a variety of sizes—are particularly useful when a hydroponic gardener is also supplementing CO2. Optimal ambient temperatures for CO2 enrichment are higher than normal ambient temperatures, so water chillers allow growers to maintain cool temperatures in their hydroponic systems while increasing the room temperature to maximize CO2 absorption.Water chillers also help to battle the unwanted heat created by the large submersible pumps used in some hydroponic systems.

Aeration Aeration is how a gardener replaces the dissolved oxygen that is used up naturally during a plant’s growing process—or more specifically, the oxygen used by microbes within the plant’s rhizosphere. Aeration of a nutrient solution—carried out by vigorous circulation or by an air pump connected to an air stone or diffuser—will help replace used dissolved oxygen. As water bubbles up or circulates it comes into contact with the surrounding air, allowing it to absorb some of the molecular oxygen from the atmosphere.

Soil growers can amend their soil with perlite, pumice, coco coir or hydroton to create air pockets that will provide pathways for air to enter the medium.

Oxygen additives There are numerous oxygen booster additives available at your local hydroponics retailer that can help improve the dissolved oxygen content of your nutrient solution. Make sure you read the bottle carefully; some of these oxidizers are designed for cleaning Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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DissolveD oxygeN

"Dissolved oxygen supports the healthy life cycle of the beneficial microbes, which are the hidden pillars of a garden’s success."

hydroponic systems (with plants removed!) and should not be added to a regular feeding program. Another good choice for oxygen supplementation is hydrogen peroxide or H2O2. Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most common ways to boost dissolved oxygen content in your nutrient solution, but it is also one of the additives most argued about in the hydroponic community. Here’s my rationale: hydrogen peroxide occurs naturally in rain water and has played an integral role in plant and microbial evolution since the beginning of time. Unfortunately, many growers tend to over-apply hydrogen peroxide, which is counterproductive—high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide will create an oxidization effect, which actually kills beneficial organisms. As long as the hydrogen peroxide is well diluted and used in moderation, though, I see no harm in using it as a dissolved oxygen booster.

Of all the factors that determine success for an indoor horticulturalist, none are as elusive as the dissolved oxygen molecule—its significance is out of all proportion to its physical size and any gardener who has battled root rot or experienced diminished yields due to excessive heat will vouch for its importance. Dissolved oxygen supports the healthy life cycle of the beneficial microbes, which are the hidden pillars of a garden’s success. By implementing temperature control, aggressive aeration and the supplementation of oxygen-boosting additives, indoor growers can maintain high populations of beneficial microbes, avoid potential problems and maintain optimal conditions in their gardens. MY

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"Part of the magic of water stems from the fact that it occurs naturally as three different states of matter—solid, liquid and gas—and that it possesses certain unusual surface tension properties."

Part of the magic of water stems from the fact that it occurs naturally as three different states of matter—solid, liquid and gas—and that it possesses certain unusual surface tension properties. These properties have a variety of biological ramifications.

At sea level, water freezes at 32°F (0° C) and boils at 212°F (100° C). Freezing water expands and becomes less dense than its liquid form, which is why ice will float on water. Snow and ice are important agents for water storage, releasing trapped moisture in the summer months when plants need extra water the most.

Water vapor is caused by evaporation or as a result of boiling water. The amount of water vapor present in the air is recorded as humidity. High-humidity gardens are prone to molds, while low-humidity gardens are prone to spider mites and other insect infestations.

Under normal circumstances and air pressure levels, the temperature of liquid water will not exceed its boiling point.

At sea level, water boils at 212°F—and it won’t get any hotter, since at that point it will turn into a gas and escape. At higher elevations, the boiling point of water is lower, due to the drop in pressure. The higher the altitude, the lower the boiling point of water and the longer food must be boiled to heat to a given temperature. For example, water boiling at 212°F will cook eggs faster than water boiling at 190°F. Pressure cookers use the other side of the same principle—water under pressure boils at a higher temperature, so immersed food heats faster.

Pure or distilled water should be microwaved with care, because if it is heated in a clean smooth container it is possible for temperature of the water in its liquid state is actually above the normal boiling temperature. This can become dangerous when a contaminant is introduced to the water—like a spoon, for instance—as that can trigger a violent, almost instantaneous, boiling response. If the starting water is not pure (such as filtered or tap water) or if a contaminant is added (like coffee, tea or sugar), then the water will boil normally.

While not technically a nutrient, (it’s actually a transport agent for nutrients), water is an important requirement for Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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growing healthy plants. The quality of the end solution is in part determined by the quality of the water you’re using for the base liquid. If your local water is of poor quality, reverse osmosis filters or other filtering systems can be used to clean it.

Water (H2O) is made up of a collection of molecules having two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. It is particularly well-suited as a solvent for many materials. Hydrophilic (waterloving) materials—like many of the salts—dissolve easily in water, while hydrophobic (water-fearing) substances such as oils do not. Because water molecules have a positive charge on the side with the two hydrogen (H) atoms and a negative charge on the oxygen (O) side, they are attracted and attach easily to many other molecules. One reason that salts are so often used as nutrient sources is that they also have a positive and negative side, but are held together with a weaker ionic bond. Water molecules attach themselves to either side of the salt molecule and break them apart, dissolving the salt into the water—this is why many chemical hydroponic solutions make use of salts dissolved in water. Organic nutrients are often less miscible and should be shaken to create a suspension each time before use.

Pure water has no electrical conductivity, so an EC or PPM

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"The higher the altitude, the lower the boiling point of water and the longer food must be boiled to heat to a given temperature." meter will display a zero conductivity reading. As the water becomes more contaminated with salts and other conductive materials from fertilizers, the nutrient solution will become more electrically conductive and the meter will show higher values. The information gathered with a meter can be invaluable in maintaining a suitable nutrient solution, but keep in mind that EC and PPM meters only display the total amount of electrically conductive contamination present, not specifically what the contamination consists of. These meters do not give specific NPK values—a solution with a high nitrogen content might give the same reading as a solution with a high phosphorus content.

Two common contaminants in tap water are calcium carbonate salt and magnesium, which are found in hard water. Since this can be a source of calcium to plants, nutrients developed for hard water applications generally take this into account and therefore contain little or no additional calcium.

Another common contaminant in city water is chlorine, which plants do not need in very high quantities. To vent off chlorine from tap water, fill your watering containers each time just after watering and the chlorine will have dissipated by the next time you water. Checking the quality of the source water will assist in fine tuning your garden, but tap water clean enough to drink will often work well enough. Underwatering is less harmful than overwatering—if plants are slightly underwatered they will usually signal this by getting droopy and will respond favorably within hours when watered again. Overwatering is

"Pure or distilled water should be microwaved with care, because if it is heated in a clean smooth container it is possible for the water to become —superheated,— which means that the temperature of the water in its liquid state is actually above the normal boiling temperature."

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more traumatic to plants and requires a longer recovery time. If you do happen to drown your plants, don't give up—just try to learn from the experience and try again. If your tap water is of a very poor quality you might have to filter it before use or use drinking water to hydrate your plants.

Growers use pH levels—assigned values between zero and 14—to denote how acidic or basic a liquid is. Pure water has a pH level of seven. Solutions with a pH value lower than seven are called acids and solutions with a pH value higher than seven are called alkaline or basic. Strong acids will corrode and dissolve many substances and strong bases such as lye can cause deposits and damage organic tissues.

The ideal range for nutrient solutions is around six to 6.2.

If you are within a half point or so, don't bother adjusting it.

Proper pH is more critical in hydroponic systems than soil gardens, due to the additional buffering properties of soil.

Radically incorrect pH can cause physical damage to plants due to the caustic properties of acids and bases and less severe imbalances have an impact on the solubility of plant nutrients.

Adjustments to pH are made by adding the opposite to the solution. Acids have positive hydrogen ions and bases have a matching negatively charged acceptor—when the two combine,

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they neutralize each other. If the solution has a pH value that is too low (acidic), add a base to raise the pH level. If the solution is too basic (high pH), an acid is added to lower it.

Water is required for photosynthesis. Light energy is absorbed by the plant, which divides the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is combined with carbon dioxide (CO2) to form glucose. MY

water

orries W Water Quality Issues and How to Deal with Them

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

If your water is not right your plants won’t reach their full potential—Dr. Lynette Morgan takes you through everything you need to know about your water supply in order to give your garden its best chance…

Water worries don’t always get much consideration from new growers as they enthusiastically set up their first hydroponic system. After all, water from the tap—which is sparkling clear and safe to drink—must be fine for plants as well, right? Many believe this to be the case, but in fact it’s often treated municipal water that causes the most problems for hydroponic growers and many gardeners might not even be aware of

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WaTer Worries

“Fortunately, most water worries are relatively easy to treat with a little knowledge and some modern technology.”

the problem. Pure water is actually a rather rare occurrence— the water we drink and irrigate our plants with is not usually just H2O, but a solution containing a wide range of minerals, dissolved gases, organic matter, pathogens, dust and chemicals.

Many common substances dissolved in or carried by water are harmless to plants, such as the calcium and magnesium present in hard water sources. Other contaminants, however—which might not pose any problems at all in human drinking water— can create havoc in a carefully balanced hydroponic system and with sensitive plants.

Water is a carrier for many minerals, dissolved gasses, organic matter and other substances.

How do we find out about our water?

Fortunately, most water worries are relatively easy to treat with a little knowledge and some modern technology. Knowing exactly what you are dealing with is vitally important, however, as some water treatment options can be more toxic to plants than the water issue being treated. A water analysis or report is always the best place to start if water quality issues are suspected—municipal water suppliers should be able to provide customers with a full water report, which will include a mineral analysis as well as listing water treatment additives that could be present, such as chlorine or other chemicals. For those using other water supplies—such as groundwater, river or dam water—obtaining a water analysis is relatively easy and all that is required is to send a sample off to a testing lab. While extremely useful, water reports might not cover all your potential problems—but they’ll usually give you a fairly good indication of where any major issues lie with your water supply.

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WaTer Worries Water quality issue number one: hard water

1.

& high alkalinity

This is probably the most common water quality issue dealt with by hydroponic growers worldwide, even those using treated city water. Groundwater might be ‘hard’—as water from rivers, dams and city water supplies can be—although rainwater in unpolluted areas is usually considered low-mineral or ‘soft.’ Municipal water supplies across the country range from very hard to soft, depending on where the individual city water supply is taken from. Hard water has a high mineral content—usually originating from magnesium, calcium carbonate, bicarbonate or calcium sulfate—which can cause hard white lime scale to build up on surfaces and growing equipment.

Hard water might also have high alkalinity and pH levels, meaning that lots

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of acid is required to lower the pH in account and by pre-acidifying hard water hydroponic systems to ideal levels and before it is used to make up nutrient maintain it there. A high alkalinity level solutions or to top up reservoirs. The acid would be considered to be greater than used for this purpose is usually either ni10 ounces per quart of calcium carbonate tric or phosphoric or a 50/50 mixture of and a low alkalinity level less then 100 the two, the reason being that acids add milligrams per quart.

While hard water sources do contain useful minerals—Ca and Mg mostly—they can upset the balance of the nutrient solution and make other ions less available for plant uptake. Largescale commercial growers can counter these problems by adjusting their nutrient formulations to take the levels of calcium and magnesium into Water contamination issues can occur if water is not stored correctly.

WaTer Worries

minerals to the water or nutrient solution and the combination of N and P from these acids can be adjusted for in the nutrient formulation as both are taken up by plants at relatively high levels. This pre-acidification of the water means that less acid is then required in the system to keep the pH down to optimal levels.

Salt damage on a sensitive cucumber plant.

Smaller-scale growers also have the option of using one of the many excellent hard-water nutrient products on the market.

These hard-water nutrients are specifically designed to deal with the effect of hard and alkaline water on pH levels and usually incorporate the ammonium form of nitrogen (NH4) to keep pH levels down. Hard water formulations also assist in keeping macronutrients in balance when using a water source that already contains levels of plant-usable elements such as calcium and magnesium. Some growers have made the mistake of using household water softening units to deal with the problem of a hard water source. Unfortunately, while these are fine for softening water for drinking and home use, they usually incorporate a process that adds sodium chloride to the water. Sodium is an issue for hydroponic systems and is an unwanted element with the potential to cause plant damage, so use of these water softeners for hydroponic water supplies should be avoided.

2.

Water quality issue number two: unwanted minerals, sodium

Water supplies will all carry some mineral content unless the water has been through a distillation or reverse osmosis process to remove it. Groundwater and city water tend to be highest in mineral content—as the minerals leach from the surrounding soil into the water—and rainwater the lowest. The most commonly occurring minerals in water supplies are calcium and magnesium, which are not problematic for hydroponics provided they are not present at excessively high levels. Other common elements are sodium and trace minerals, which can occur at 94

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WaTer Worries

“Water supplies will all carry some mineral content unless the water has been through a distillation or reverse osmosis process to remove it.”

moderate levels of sodium, growers can opt to avoid recirculating the nutrient—thus preventing sodium or other unwanted elements accumulating over time. In this case avoiding recirculating systems such as NFT

varying levels in different water supplies.

Sodium levels in excess of 2,000 ppm have been found in some inland well water in arid regions, although most well water sources don’t pose such an extreme problem. Sodium contamination usually occurs from Natural growing mediums such as coco fiber help `buffer’ plants against common salt—sodi- water treatment chemicals in the water supply. um chloride—which is present to varying degrees in most soils set-ups in favor of media-based drain to and might also be present from salty sea waste-type set-ups is often enough to spray, salt water penetration of wells or avoid excessive sodium buildup. from sources deliberately added during Water quality issue water softening processes. number three: Sodium is not taken up by plants to any water treatment large degree, so it can end up accumuchemicals lating in hydroponic systems (more so Many city water sources are in recirculating systems) and displacing other elements. Trace elements in water perfectly acceptable for soilless supplies—such as copper, boron, zinc growers and hydroponic systems and can be used with no adjustment or treatment. and iron—might also sometimes occur However, water treatment options used at high levels. While lower levels of trace by city water suppliers change over time elements can be adjusted for in nutrient formulations, higher levels often need and with advancing technology. In the past the main concern was chlorine in reverse osmosis treatment or dilution city water supplies. Chlorine is a disinwith a lower-mineral water source to fecting agent that destroys bacteria and keep these minerals below toxic levels. human pathogens and residual chlorine Some hydroponic crops such as tomatoes can usually be detected by smell in a waare far more tolerant of high levels of ter source. High levels of chlorine can be sodium than other more sensitive crops toxic to sensitive plants—although chlolike lettuce, so this can be taken into rine is a chemical that rapidly dissipates account when deciding whether or not into the air and it can easily be removed a salty water source needs treatment. For by aerating the water or just letting the

3.

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water sit or age for a few days before use.

While chlorination of water supplies was relatively easy for hydro growers to deal with, city water treatment plants are now moving more frequently toward the use of other methods for treating drinking water. Scientists discovered that some human pathogens are resistant to chlorine, so water safety regulations had to change and alternative disinfection methods came into more frequent use. These days water might still be chlorinated, but an increasing number of city water suppliers have switched to the use of ozone, UV light, chloramines and chlorine dioxide as methods of treatment. While many of these methods are not a problem for hydroponic and soilless growers, the use of chloramines and other chemicals by many city water treatment plants can pose a problem for plant life where high levels are regularly introduced into water supplies.

Chloramines are much more persistent than chlorine and take a lot longer to dissipate from treated water, which means they can build up in hydroponic systems and cause plant damage. This damage is very difficult to diagnose—as it looks similar to many root rot pathogens—and growers aren’t usually aware of what is actually causing the problem. Some plants are also naturally much more sensitive to chloramines than others, so determining levels of toxicity has been difficult.

Hydroponic growers who have concerns about the use of chloramines in their city water supply can treat their water with specifically designed activated carbon filters or by using dechloraminating chemical or water conditioners, which are sold by the aquarium trade to treat the water in fish tanks. The chloramine carbon filters must be of the correct type, with a high-quality granular activated carbon that allows for the long contact time required for chloramine removal.

Growing systems that utilize substrates such as coco are a safer option than soilless culture or recirculating systems when water treatment chemicals are suspected to be a problem—these natural substrates

WaTer Worries

provide a buffering capacity much like soil does and can deactivate some of the treatment chemicals contained in the water supply.

4.

Water quality issue number four: grubby water

“While it is possible to treat water sources with chemicals such as bleach (chlorine) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), this can be a risky process.”

and pathogens

Generally, city water supplies are filtered to remove organic matter and treated to kill any microbial life, which includes human and plant pathogens. However, other water sources—like wells, rivers, dams and rainwater—can harbor both organic matter and potentially damaging plant pathogen spores. Many large commercial hydroponic operations use untreated water sources with few problems, but in some areas pathogen contamination can be an issue. Zoosporic pathogenic fungi such as Pythium and bacteria can survive

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and be distributed in water, although these can be relatively easily cleaned up by the grower before they can pose any threat.

The safest options are UV, ozone and slow sand filtration, as these won’t

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Some plant pathogens such as Pythium can be carried in water supplies.

leave chemical residues, which could harm young sensitive root systems. Small UV treatment and filtration systems such as those used in fish ponds and aquariums are suitable for treating water for hydroponic use and will kill plant pathogens and algae. These are best used for treating water only, however—not nutrient solutions, as UV radiation can make some nutrients unavailable for plant uptake.

WaTer Worries

While it is possible to treat water sources with chemicals such as bleach (chlorine) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), this can be a risky process.

Levels of these sanitizer chemicals high enough to kill plant pathogens will certainly damage young or sensitive plants unless the chemicals are deactivated or removed before being used to make A good quality water source is a great place to up a hydroponic start for a successful hydroponic crop. nutrient solution.

H2O2 is deactivated when it reacts with organic matter in the water and chlorine will dissipate over time—particularly if the water is aerated—but determining when these active chemicals have reached levels low enough to be safe for plants is difficult.

There are test strips sold through aquarium suppliers that might help, but it’s usually an easier option to rely on safer methods of water treatment for pathogen control.

Good-quality water is vital to the success of any hydroponic system and growers today have a wide range of tools to assess their own water supply and carry out any treatment that is required. Investing in high-quality water is an essential step in any new hydroponic set-up and will help prevent any number of serious problems down the road. MY

References Date, S., Terabayashi, S., Kobayashi,Y., Fujime,Y., 2005, “Effects of Chloramine Concentration in Nutrient Solutions and Exposure Time on Plant Growth in Hydroponically Cultured Lettuce”, Scientia Horticulturae, Volume 103(3), pp 257-265.

Richards et al, 1996, “Well Water Quality, Well Vulnerability and Agricultural Contamination in the Midwestern United States”, Journal of Environmental Quality, Volume 25, pp 389-402.

Thomas, P.R., Greene, G.R., 1993, “Rainwater Quality from Different Root Catchments”, Water Science and Technology, Volume 28, number 3/5, pp 291-299.

Yaziz, M.I. et al, 2003, “Variations in Rainwater Quality from Roof Catchments”, Water Research, Volume 23, Issue 6, pp 761-765.

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The Year-Round Greenhouse

by Eric Brandstad

You’ll need different things from your greenhouse in the hot summer months than you will in the depths of winter,—read on for some useful information before you buy or build...—

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The year-rouND greeNhouse

The science of greenhouse growing is at an all-time high. Running a greenhouse in the summer and the winter are two completely different things, however— what sets them apart?

Winter Most people recognize the advantages of a greenhouse when it’s cold outside.

A greenhouse in the winter can play a crucial role in providing gardeners with a means of extending their growing season. During the day the sun warms the air, plants and soil, while at night the greenhouse provides protection from cold temperatures. In order for this process to work the greenhouse must be sealed, with only ventilation fans and intakes as sources for fresh air. With supplemental lighting and some heat, a ‘controlled’ environment is now achievable.

A controlled environment is one in which outside factors like temperature

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extremes, dry conditions or long periods of darkness are not allowed to adversely affect crops growing within it—all these factors are set and controlled by the grower. But the grower must create and maintain an environment that nurtures plants completely—just because the air temperature feels right doesn’t mean the soil or water temperature is actually ideal for the plants. Some growers have found that adding lights and above-air heat has actually resulted in up to 40 per cent decreases in production—when supplemental lighting and root zone heating are added to the mix, though, these problems disappear. Ambient air temperature should not be your main focus. Whether soil or soilless gardening is your thing, root zone temperature will play a huge factor in determining your end result. Find a way to warm up the water or get a radiant flooring system if you want to increase crop production in your greenhouse in the winter months.

Summer The sealed win-ter greenhouse should give way to a more open and naturally ventilated greenhouse during the hot summer months. Some simple ways of naturally ventilating your greenhouse might be taking the end wall coverings down or reattaching the sidewall covers a few feet off the ground to improve airflow. Let’s face it—we all know what its like to be in a car with the windows rolled up on a hot summer day. Lots of greenhouse growers are also beginning to install diffused greenhouse coverings.

Diffused light has a positive influence on production, especially during the summer. This positive effect can be explained by a change in light penetration into the crop and by an increased capacity for photosynthesis. A crop-like

The year-rouND greeNhouse

cucumber can utilize diffused light better than direct light. In addition, diffused roof material results in a lower crop temperature—especially higher in the crop canopy—which likely leads to more optimal conditions for photosynthesis. Polyethylene/polyweave covers are stronger and last longer than normal film. Greenhouse film is usually only four to six millimeters thick and very easy to puncture—we see it in landfills far more often than the polyweave material. The film is quite a bit cheaper, but its lack of longevity and the problems you’ll face using it in the summer are just not worth the savings.

Most people think glass is the ultimate greenhouse covering. I would say if you are in the Netherlands or somewhere that never experiences hot summers, glass is great. Glass does not insulate, however, so it can turn out to be an expensive way to cover your greenhouse while, unfortunately, making it less efficient at the same time. It’s also twice the cost of polyweaves and polycarbs. Glass in the higher elevations of your greenhouse also tends to magnify light, which in turn will create hot spots on the leaf surfaces of your plants.

As the greenhouse warms up, your plants begin to transpire by bringing water from the roots to the leaves, the natural way plants cool or protect themselves. Once the water transfers

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to the leaves, we begin to see the humidity increase and the plants begin to sweat. At first this process can be protective to the plant, but as the process continues we see more problems begin to develop—the humidity creates water droplets or condensation on the inside of the greenhouse roof. Rain on the inside!

These droplets also act as little magnifying glasses all over the roof, which creates hot spots and the potential for mold. Add a power outage in the middle

“Add a power outage in the middle of the day— rendering exhaust fans and circulation fans useless—and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.” of the day—rendering exhaust fans and circulation fans useless—and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

A simple diffused polyweave or diffused polycarb would have helped this situation and is half the cost of glass. A twin-wall polycarb is also a better insulator than glass, so it is much more efficient. One reason person like glass is the idea they are getting more lumens. In some ways that is true—however, the sun is so intense that in the heat of the summer you will actually gain more light by diffusing it rather than by allowing direct sunlight. By diffusing the light you are taking a light particle and breaking it into more light particles, which can then actually

penetrate deeper into the canopy and provide more light to the lower branches.

The ideal greenhouse for summer can be anything with a diffused cover and good ventilation—preferably, something with roll-up side walls and doors at both ends. That way you can avoid solar gain, cool your plants and the soil (even if the air temperatures are in the 100°F+ range) and keep the air fresh. Stagnant air that is continuing to heat up is what you are trying to avoid. Having a house with a roof vent is also a very good option—roof vents allow you to release the hot air that can gather in the peak of your greenhouse, allowing you to keep the cooler air that stays lower in the structure.

This will result in decreased plant stress and allow photosynthesis to continue even when outdoor plants are suffering—and you won’t even need to run the big exhaust fans or evaporative cooling systems. In fact, some small horizontal airflow (HAF) fans might be all you need throughout the heat of the day.

Evaporative greenhouse cooling systems are like swamp coolers—water runs over a thick pad at one end of the greenhouse while exhaust fans pull air from the other end through the wall of cool water. These tend to work well in moderate temperatures and dry areas, but they can cause humidity levels to rise, which isn’t always desirable—and the electric bill for cooling a greenhouse can be another issue.

Most companies outfit greenhouses for cold winter use only—it never seems to occur to them you might want to use it in the summertime. Sometimes just switching out your roof covers to match the season will do the trick—a polyweave cover in the summer will protect you from rain and the sun’s intensity, while switching this cover out to a double inflated poly film could add to the efficiency of your greenhouse come wintertime.

Circulation fans are another very important part of a greenhouse. Some growers find themselves near the coast or in a foggy mountain area that gets

The year-rouND greeNhouse

higher humidity in the morning or evening. Take Florida for instance—they have pretty good humidity even on a warm day and you can’t fire up a heater to dry out the air. HAF fans are the key to drying out the air in these situations since they actually get the air moving in a specific direction, rather than just scattering it around like oscillating fans do.

The air will dry out faster and more efficiently if moved in a specific direction.

Some greenhouse companies recommend fewer fans, but there is a benefit to adding more circulation in this department for dryer, fresher air.

Adding a light deprivation or blackout capability to a greenhouse can be another important factor in increasing productivity. Normally when growing outdoors or in a greenhouse you have to wait until fall for the harvest season.

With a blackout cover, though, you can force flowering as early as July.

A light depriva deprivation cover can be manually pulled over the garden or greenhouse and as long as

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you create the correct light cycle every day, you should be able to start your harvest long before Mother Nature intended. Internal and external systems for light control are both options.

For internal systems I recommend a breathable blackout material—this helps avoid any condensation drips that can occur after the curtain is pulled. Remember, the fans and intakes will be restricted because of light leaks. With that being said, it’s obvious you are going to see a bit of a heat and humidity spike since the sun is still out and you are covering your crop.

For external systems, I recommend a non-breathable blackout material. If you have a greenhouse cover and you try to pull the breathable cover over the outside of it, it won’t breathe and you’ll still have the same issues with ventilation. The next step would be to use underground ventilation since you can’t go through the walls of the blackout and you are cut off from the exhaust fans you might use throughout the day.

Going underground would mean a bit more work when building your greenhouse, though—and if you already have a greenhouse, underground ventilation might be a real pain to install.

“Covers, locking hardware and other miscellaneous parts might be all you need to create a growing area that suits your needs.”

When shopping for a greenhouse you have many options—price should not be the only factor you consider. Always look for product reviews, checking things like the thickness of the frame and the type of framing—rolled steel, tubular or square. Make sure the greenhouse can handle the wind and snow conditions in your area as well.

Greenhouses can start out really basic and be upgraded over time. If you can’t afford roll-up walls now, add them next season.You might need to keep your screw gun handy because you can always reattach the cover to the ground when it gets chilly—it might be a bit more work, but in the long run making do will save you a few bucks.

The problem with buying your greenhouse from a big box dealer is that the catalogs might show a nice picture of an ideal greenhouse, but you might not actually be getting everything that’s in the picture—you might get the frame and cover, but not the doors or the roll-up walls. Or, if you do get the roll-up walls, you’ll have to get the polycarb roof separately.

Your greenhouse should not be the cheapest thing on your list. Keep in mind that most greenhouse companies sell parts for you to do it yourself. Covers, locking hardware and other miscellaneous parts might be all you need to create a growing area that suits your needs. A greenhouse is your number one weapon in your own personal war against everything that might cause harm to your precious plants—make sure you buy it from somebody who cares about your passion for gardening! MY

Contain Yourself:

7

ReaSoNS To Rea

CoNSIDeR Co

CoNTaINeR Co

GARDENING

BY HeaTHeR BRauTmaN

If you’ve grown something in a Styrofoam cup as a child you’ve already done some container gardening—but there’s a whole world of new possibilities out there for today’s grower…

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coNTaiN yourself: seveN reasoNs To coNsiDer coNTaiNer garDeNiNg

Nobody puts Baby in the corner (according to the late, great Patrick Swayze), but put Baby in a container, and if she’s a seedling, you might just have something.You too can have the time of your life in very small spaces through the joy of container gardening. While it might seem limiting at first, what you could find is that container gardening is a way to broaden— not limit—your gardening possibilities.

Trying to describe exactly what container gardening encompasses might be a little too much like trying to stuff two gallons of growing medium into a one gallon pot. According to the University of Illinois Extension’s Successful Container Gardens website, container gardening is a way of growing that lets you customize your greenery and growth for any circumstance—this means you can container garden if you live in a 500 square foot sixthfloor walkup or a multi-acre plot in the country. In fact, one of the biggest

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“While it might seem limiting at first, what you could find is that container gardening is a way to broaden—not limit—your gardening possibilities.”

pros of container gardening is just how much about it is up to you, which takes us to the first in our list of seven reasons to consider container gardening.

You’re the king of the world Not everyone can be Leonardo DiCaprio—but you can be the king (or queen) of your own world through container gardening. Container

gardening removes any limits that might be imposed on you by climate, seasonal growth patterns or even the kind of restrictions you sometimes encounter if you live in an apartment or condo, which doesn’t allow outside planting.

With container gardening, you can grow what you like.

upcycling: not just for hipsters If you’ve been to a craft show or visited DIY websites such as Etsy.com, you’ll have noticed the term ‘upcycling.’ Suddenly, recycling just isn’t good enough— now you need to find newer, better uses for your stuff instead of just sorting it out at the curb. With container gardening, you’ve got the perfect excuse to upcycle. Check around your home for throwaways like yogurt cartons, coffee cans and even old planters and pots relegated to your garage. As the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension puts it, “If it holds soil, it’s a container.”

coNTaiN yourself

All of these items would make ideal homes for your new container garden—in fact, smaller items such as those old (cleaned out, of course) yogurt containers are the ideal size to line a windowsill and start growing your own salad fixings. Suddenly, you’re a trendsetter—you’re not only growing your own, but you’re reducing your waste footprint by upcycling as well!

Choose your own adventure With container gardening you have so many choices— and each choice you make will reveal something about you as a gardener.You’ve got your choice of the actual containers you’ll be growing in, but then you also get to choose your growing medium. In most cases soil and nutrients will be the options you’ll choose, but don’t rule out hydroponics. In many cases, hydroponics is container gardening—just on a much larger scale.

Once you open up to that option, you’ll have choices like coco coir, rockwool, perlite and other media in which to house your soon-to-be lush greenery. And of course you’ll also get to choose what you plant.

It doesn’t matter any more if you only get sun three hours a day (for plants that need massive sun exposure daily) or if you experience morning cold snaps that would be deadly to fragile new growth—container gardening makes all of that irrelevant.

a gift for growing gifts Whether you already have a thumb so green it’s verdant or you’re just starting out, container gardening can make gift-giving easy. Remember that joy you felt as a child being able to say, “I made it myself?”

Whether it was a macaroni face on a plate or a strange, floppy piece of pottery, DIY always seemed to mean more than store-bought. With container gardening, you get to say ‘GIY’—you grew it yourself. Got a friend who loves those lavender sachets? Decorate a few pots and get planting the real thing. Of course, good things come to those who wait—you’ll need to plan in advance if you’re going to grow your own gifts so that they’ll be fresh and ready when it’s time to bestow them on their eager recipients.You can even do themes—say, sprigs of mint in red-and-green painted pots for Christmas.

menu master You probably can’t grow everything you need for a three-course meal in your container garden—but this doesn’t mean your container garden can’t contribute in a big way to your meal planning.You can grow all the elements you need to make an entire salad, herbs and spices to soup up sauces, plus fruits and vegetables

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to round out the meal. In many cases, you might even find yourself consulting the garden before you plan your menu—what’s sprouting, ripe and ready to pluck might be what’s for dinner that evening.

Going the extra mile One of the biggest pluses of container gardening is just how flexible it really is. There’s no competition— you don’t have to worry about whether your neighbor has five azalea bushes that have bloomed before yours even took root. The container garden ball is entirely in your corner, and whether you want to bunt, kick or knock it out of the park is up to you. If you’d like to take things further, you can enhance your container garden with options such as grow lights (available from hydroponics stores), automatic waterers and more.You can also move the containers (another big bonus of container gardens is their portability) throughout the day to take advantage of the best sunlight. Depending on what you’re growing, a wealth of additives and nutrients to encourage bloom and taste can also be part of your daily routine—if you want it to. But you can also just fill a few containers with soil, plunk in your seeds or cuttings and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your hard labor at your own pace.

The truth is out there (also known as ‘we are not alone’).

Container gardening might seem, well, rather contained. It’s something you can do entirely on your own—but you don’t have to. Maybe you’re wondering how to get started, maybe you want to know what’s best to buy or maybe you want to find expert advice.

While a quick check of the Internet can ‘plant the seeds’ for you to get started, dig a little deeper to learn from those who really know. Novice and long-term container gardeners will find truly helpful information on many college websites—especially ones with agricultural extensions, such as West Virginia University. On the WVU Extension Service website you’ll find suggestions on containers, watering, media and lighting and a list of recommended vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers that do well in container gardening applications. There are also many books (in both print and electronic versions), web tutorials, videos and free sessions at gardening stores and local gardening clubs just waiting to help you get started. MY

References urbanext.illinois.edu/containergardening/welcome.cfm colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/4DMG/Plants/contain.htm anr.ext.wvu.edu/lawn_garden/herbs/container_gardening

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A Root Primer

by Matt LeBannister Beneath every great plant there’s a healthy root system.

Matt LeBannister takes you through the basic information you’ll need to know to maintain root health in your garden…

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Every system in a plant must be healthy if the plant is to reach its maximum potential—we naturally tend to focus on the upper part of the plant because it’s more visible, but the root system is just as vital to a plant’s overall health.

Roots take up water and nutrients and anchor the plant to the medium. Without healthy roots plants will be stunted and prone to disease— stems will be weak and might break easily, flowers won’t bloom and fruit won’t set. Without root care, seedlings and cuttings will never root properly or take to the medium.

There are guidelines every gardener can follow to promote root health, and products and techniques available that can improve root growth.

“Without healthy roots plants will be stunted and prone to disease— stems will be weak and might break easily, flowers won’t bloom and fruit won’t set.”

Roots are a vital link in the chain of plant systems and chains are only as strong as their weakest link—keep your roots healthy and you’ll keep the chain strong.

When a seed germinates, a single root known as the taproot breaks out of the seed and begins its search for nutrients and water. During this stage of root and plant development the Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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roots require a certain level of care for them to thrive. The health of the roots is crucial at this stage of growth because the taproot is very small and delicate.

Seedling roots prefer warmer temperatures than the roots of mature plants. Root growth will increase dramatically if you can maintain the root zone temperature at 75 to 80°F and keep the air temperature around six to eight degrees cooler. If root zone temperatures exceed 80°F the roots can dry out or become prone to diseases like root rot or damping off.

Place your seedling trays on a seedling heating mat equipped with a thermostat—these can be purchased at any indoor gardening supply store.

There are some fairly common reasons behind most problems you might encounter with your seedling roots.

Overwatering is a big concern as seedlings do not yet have the ability to absorb much water and underwatering can also become a problem since seedling roots are few and delicate and unable to survive fully drying out.

Feeding young seedlings nutrients is unnecessary because they already carry enough nutrients to sustain themselves within the seed. Seedling roots do best without any added nutrients for the first two to three weeks—this will encourage the roots to grow down and out in search of water and nutrients.

These steps also apply to cuttings in order for them to thrive, but cuttings need some roots first—and this is best achieved by dipping the cut end of the clone in a rooting compound

right after the cut is made. Rooting compounds contain the same rooting hormones that are found naturally in plants and it is believed that covering the undifferentiated cells along the cut with a concentrated dose of these hormones can greatly improve the success rate of cuttings and increase the speed at which they develop roots.

As plants mature their roots begin to branch out from the taproot much like the leafy growth above the ground branches out from the stem. Rootlets— tiny root hairs that draw in water and nutrients—begin to grow. Root tips continue to elongate, always searching for water and nutrients. Larger mature roots will now anchor the plant, allowing trees to survive strong winds and orchids to cling to the branches and nooks of trees. These mature roots also begin to transport water and store food for the plant in the form of starches.

Mature roots also have certain requirements that must be met in order for them to thrive. Roots growing in soil will do best in a temperature range between 65 and 75°F. Soil that is any colder than this will slow down processes within the roots and the plant will absorb less water and nutrients, while soil any warmer than 75°F will allow roots to become dehydrated or even actually cook. Soil that is kept too warm will also have very little oxygen present in the nutrient solution, effectively drowning the plant.

Growing in pots requires the gardener to pay close attention to the size of the root ball. Roots that have hit the edge of their containers will become tangled

and starved for space—plants can become stunted, affecting the production of fruit and flowers. Once the container has become too small for the roots it is best to transplant the plant into a larger pot.

This can be stressful to the plant, so try to be gentle on the roots. Try running room temperature water over the pot—this can help gently coax out a stubborn cluster of roots. If you want to keep the plant in the same-sized container, you can trim back the roots every so often, but this must be done with a sterile instrument to avoid the spread of disease. Root trimming is not recommended for plants that you are trying to get a yield from—highyield plants need lots of healthy roots to maximize fruit production.

Plants in hydroponic systems can be almost completely submerged in water while keeping roots healthy and white.

Air stones can be used to infuse oxygen into the water. Plants in hydroponic systems like their root zones a bit cooler than their soil counterparts in pots, preferring that the nutrient solution in the reservoir stay in the 60 to 70°F range— water in this range can hold much more oxygen than water above 75°F. Sometimes the HID lights used in indoor gardening can cause the temperature of the growroom—and subsequently your hydroponic solution—to climb above the range safe for roots.

To combat high reservoir temperatures you can cover the reservoir with black and white plastic—the white side facing up to reflect the light up and the black side facing the solution to absorb any light that sneaks through. This will also help prevent algae and bacteria from

“Roots are a vital link in the chain of plant systems and chains are only as strong as their weakest link—keep your roots healthy and you’ll keep the chain strong.”

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forming in the reservoir. These organisms compete with the plants for oxygen and nutrients and can lead to root infections. A reservoir chiller is also an effective remedy for high reservoir temperatures.

There are plenty of products on your local hydroponic store shelves that are designed to keep roots healthy and improve their development. One such product is liquid kelp fertilizer or kelp meal—kelp is rich in the hormones that promote root growth. There are also many biological products available that contain colonies of beneficial bacteria or fungi that work symbiotically with your plants, helping them break down and absorb nutrients more easily. This is especially applicable in organic gardens. The downside of these products is that they are live and do have a shelf life. The numbers gradually decrease as time passes, so be wary of buying products containing living beneficial bacteria or fungi that don’t have a packaging date or a best-before date.

There are some products available that don’t contain any living bacteria or fungi—just the enzymes produced by them. These products are great because they do not have a shelf life, they can be used with hydrogen peroxide and they can be applied in hydroponic and aeroponic systems as well as in pots.

There are some insects that infest root zones and feed on and damage roots. The larvae of fungus gnats live in the growing medium and eat tiny root hairs.

They appear as thin white worms with a black head about one centimeter long, while the adults are small black flies that suck the juices out of leaves. Fungus gnats affect a wide range of herbaceous plants. To deal with fungus gnat larvae, treat your growing medium Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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“Feeding young seedlings nutrients is unnecessary because they already carry enough nutrients to sustain themselves within the seed.” with a larvicide—adults can be treated with yellow or blue sticky cards or with biological controls like lady bugs.

Nematodes are another species that can harm your roots. Pest nematodes are translucent worms 1 th ∕25 of an inch long that can cause root knots or galls and injure root tips—plants affected with them develop distorted leaves and stunted growth and fruit production. Plants that are most likely to be infested

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with nematodes include tomatoes, peppers and lettuce. Nematode infestations are best treated by using nematicides or by introducing predatory nematodes that will feed on the pest variety.

The root system is all-important to the overall health of your plants—without a healthy root system, plants will display stunted growth and impaired fruit production.You can’t afford to forget about the roots—even though they are below the surface—because healthy roots equal healthy plants. MY

Resources: Rahman, Dr. L, Root Knot Disease and its Control, Agfact AB.1, Third Edition, 2003, National Wine and Grape Industry Center, Wagga Wagga.

Van Patten, George, Gardening Indoors: The Indoor Gardening Bible, Van Patten Publishing, 2002.

Barbara W. Ellis and Fern Marshall Bradley, Editors, The Organic Gardener’s Handbook of Natural Insect and Disease Control, Rodale Press, 1996.

GROWING FOR HEALTH

Preventing and Controlling Harmful Fungi

by Matt LeBannister

Of all the garden pathogens, the type you are most likely to encounter is fungus. There are over 100,000 varieties of fungus, many of which are actually beneficial to the plant, but there are at least 8,000 types of fungus that infect and harm plants. Fungal pathogens spread from plant to plant by air, water and even on traveling insects, much like plants spread their seeds. Learning how to prevent and control them can make the difference between a thriving garden and a dying one.

Prevention The best way to deal with a fungal disease is not to get one in the first place.

There are a few things you can do to help prevent plant-harming fungi.

High humidity is common contributor to the spread of fungal pathogens among plants. Keeping your relative humidity between 40 to 55 per cent is ideal; anything above 75 per cent relative humidity will invite a fungal problem.

Molds and mildews thrive in warm temperatures. Keeping your grow room temperature between 65 to 80째F is ideal. Anything above this range can become problematic.

Air circulation can be a large factor in whether a fungal disease will infect plants. Molds and mildews cannot thrive with faster moving air. They do best with stale, stagnant air. Using exhaust fans to pull air out of the grow room once or twice per hour will greatly help prevent fungal diseases.You can use oscillating fans or ceiling fans to circulate the air within the room as well.

Harmful fungal pathogens that occur in growing mediums can be prevented. Adding hydrogen peroxide to your regular feeding schedule will help sterilize the medium. If the hydrogen peroxide is 35 per cent mix 0.5 milliliters per quart of water. Rockwool seedling flats can be soaked in this solution to help prevent damping off, a fungal disorder that causes seedlings to collapse just as they begin to sprout.

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The best way to prevent molds, mildews, rusts and any other fungal infection is to keep you garden very clean. Remove any leaf litter from the area, and dust and clean the room frequently. Do not allow pets to come into your indoor garden as they can bring in spores on the coats. In between growing cycles when there is a brief period without plants in your room, disinfect all the equipment, hydroponic systems, pots, tools and the room with a diluted bleach and water solution.

Control Controlling many fungal diseases is possible while some, like damping off, are beyond control once you notice the symptoms. Root-borne fungi can be controlled by adding hydrogen peroxide to you feeding schedule, as mentioned earlier. Unfortunately this will also kill any beneficial fungi or bacteria present in the growing medium.

Leaf-borne infections are the easiest to spot and treat.

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that appears as powdery white spots and can spread quickly, harming plants and spoiling fruit. Most molds, mildews and rust that appear

on plant leaves and fruit can be treated a couple of ways: one can purchase a commercial fungicide that is either copper- or sulfur-based. This must be sprayed on the effected leaves and fruit. You can dust the leaves with powdered sulfur or vaporize sulfur pellets using a sulfur burner. These are all suitable ways to effectively control fungal outbreaks and each of these products are available at any local hydroponic or gardening retailer.

Fungi are some of the most prolific organisms on Earth. The largest known living fungi on Earth are subterranean fungi, some spanning many acres; only the smallest parts appear above ground. Most fungi are harmless but a few can damage and destroy plants. By following the advice mentioned in this article you will have the best chance of keeping your garden free of fungus. MY

Source: The Organic Gardener’s Handbook of Natural Insect and Disease Control. Edited by Barbara W. Ellis and Fern Marshall Bradley.

Rodale Press, 1996.

Love thy Clones.

More roots, more clones with Olivia’s Cloning Solution and Gel.

www.OliviasSolutions.com

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OrganOleptic Quality

by Frank rauscher

—Which nutrients contribute to good taste?

One of the most crucial elements in deciding how good your crops will taste is sulfur—but only if it is delivered to your plants in a form they can use…

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DISTRIBUTOR BIOFLORAL-USA 6250 NW 27th Way, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33309 Tel: 1-877-735-6725 or 1-877-7FLORAL usasales@bioямВoral.com

orgaNolepTic QualiTy

When we are considering how to improve our crops, one of our main concerns is that we want them to taste absolutely fantastic—sweet or tart, but never bland.To better understand the science behind this, let’s examine what it is that the roots actually take up. For example, if we want our fruits or veggies to taste sweeter, we might think that we should add sugar to our nutrient formulations—but would this actually work?

Providing an optimal supply of all the nutrients plants require is the best way to ensure good flavor.What these nutrients are and what level is optimal is the question—let’s take sulfur, for example.

Sulfur is especially important, as it forms organic compounds within the plant that ultimately contribute to the flavor of the crops produced. Some soils are deficient in sulfur and you can address this by adding organic material like compost. Potting soil is generally rich in organic material, but the level of available sulfur can vary greatly.

Adding straight elemental sulfur has negative tradeoffs and this form of sulfur is extremely slow in becoming useful for your plants.When too much sulfur is added to a soil the pH can become too low—most plants prefer a pH of between 5.5 and six. If you are growing tomatoes, the optimum pH for that plant is slightly higher, around 6.5 to 6.8.

Sulfur is a structural subcomponent of amino acids, proteins and many micronutrients and is essential to the production of chlorophyll. Magnesium sulfate, for instance, is a chemical compound containing magnesium, sulfur and oxygen: MgSO4.

Epsom salts are a form of this compound and are often used in nutrient formulas to promote rose blooms. Many of the micronutrients your plants need are delivered in this sulfate form in order to make them more available to the plant for uptake and also to add sulfur as a flavor enhancer.

Sulfur is not very mobile within the plant and a lack of sulfur can be responsible for a number of plant health issues: poor photosynthesis, poor nitrogen fixation in legumes, poor conversion of nitrates into ammonium and proteins, and retarded formation of storage proteins in developing seeds.We apply lots of potassium to our plants in order to keep them strong, but this nutrient 126

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orgaNolepTic QualiTy

“copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, manganese sulfate (not to be confused with magnesium) and zinc sulfate are all excellent nutrient supplements to enhance flavor in your veggies.”

actually exacerbates sulfur loss. Stunted plants and uneven crop development are often the result of low sulfur levels, which can aggravate nitrate toxicity as well.The visual symptoms of a sulfur deficiency can look like general chlorosis—similar to a nitrogen deficiency—except the young leaves stay yellow over time and leaflet yellowing is general and uniform rather than varying throughout.

Plant roots take sulfur up as sulfate (SO42-)—this is another reason why the best way to apply sulfur to the soil is in the form of sulfates. Copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, manganese sulfate (not to be confused with magnesium) and zinc sulfate are all excellent nutrient supplements to enhance flavor in your veggies.

Sulfur is as important to a plant as nitrogen. Most growers pay plenty of attention to nitrogen for their crops, but don’t realize that sulfur is essential in order for plants to be able to use that nitrogen—without sulfate amino acids, proteins can’t be built and plants won’t grow. Sulfur content is lost by leaching from the soil and through anaerobic volatilization, which happens when soil is kept too wet and insufficient oxygen is available. Because both nitrogen and sulfur are building blocks of proteins, an insufficiency of either one will cause 128

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a shortage of chlorophyll, which will in turn result in the plant being unable to convert sunlight into energy. A lack of sulfur or nitrogen will also cause an inadequate supply of the enzyme rubisco, which changes carbon dioxide into sugar.

It sounds odd, but if you want really sweet veggies you’ll have to make sure they’re getting enough sulfur in their diet!

Good soils are actually full of life— the unseen microbial organisms in the soil are responsible for the continued good health of your plants. The release of organic sulfur from soil humus is very slow and its benefit to plants is limited—mineralization is where sulfur is converted by these beneficial microbes to plant-accessible sulfates.

Here is where a potential conflict can get started. Too much straight elemental sulfur is antibacterial and can actually sterilize the soil to a degree—elemental sulfur is often used to sterilize injuries on succulents in order to halt the development of disease. So even though you need to have a good level of sulfur in your soil, you also need to be very careful about over-application or you will undo the very process that you want to occur— mineralization. Poor organic matter, soil humus and low microbial activity (common with pH levels that are either

too low or too high) will decrease the amount of sulfur available to your plants.

Using a nutrient formula with plenty of pre-mineralized sulfates is one safe way to deal with this conundrum. Elemental sulfur can only be plant-available after a long breakdown period (often several years).

In order to produce sulfuric acid, elemental sulfur requires an initial phase of microbial oxidation.The microorganisms that produce this elemental sulfur oxidation need most of the same nutrients that the plants need, plus a few more.The oxidizing bacteria are mostly aerobic—which means they need plenty of soil oxygen in order to stay healthy and reproduce.When you water your plants too often you create soil with insufficient oxygen, which can definitely impede this vital process.The breakdown of elemental sulfur is a slow process even under ideal conditions.

The primary minerals—calcium, sulfur, manganese, magnesium, copper, iron, boron and zinc—are in general all players in the quest for superior taste. Finding a plant nutrient that provides these in sulfate form can be a real game changer if you are interested in maximizing organoleptic (taste) quality and plant health while keeping the process of growing as simple as possible. Indoor grows are often done in potting soils—while rich in organic matter, these soils also exhibit rapid draining characteristics and this can make them susceptible to sulfur deficiency.

Keeping your soil microbes alive and healthy is one way to help this organic matter convert to sulfates. Complete soil tests can give you an idea of the amount of sulfur that is available for your plants, but it is still generally difficult to determine how much additional sulfur is needed— regular additions of mineral sulfates can be another way to keep ahead of this issue.

Find and use a plant nutrient formula that provides a complete spectrum of nutrients, including micronutrients—if you can also find one that uses the sulfate form of the micronutrients, you will be on your way to a better-tasting crop. MY

BEGINNER’S CORNER

The Secret to a ( for your pH Meter) Handheld pH meters can be a gardener’s best friend—but nobody wants to keep replacing them when they start malfunctioning way too soon. It turns out it’s all about the electrodes…

One of the handiest tools in a gardener’s tool belt is the pocket pH meter or tester—within seconds, the meter’s display will re-

“For gardeners investigating why their plants are not thriving, the pH reading is—literally— the litmus test.” veal the acidity or alkalinity of water or soil via the pH reading, indicating whether nutrients are feeding properly into plants.

For gardeners investigating why their plants are not thriving, the pH reading is—literally—the litmus test.

Priced around $100 or less, the handheld pH meter is also a worthwhile investment. Except, that is, when it begins to malfunction! Sluggish readings that take 15 to 30 seconds to register, erratic measurements that fail to stabilize, blatantly incorrect values or no pH display at all are complaints common to users of pocket pH meters. Further, gardeners using rainwater or treated wastewater to irrigate plants might find that the performance of their pH meter declines very quickly. Why? Regardless of the type of pH meter, the problem can typically be traced back to the electrodes. Single-junction electrodes are much more prone to problems and shorter lives than their double-junction counterparts.

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clogging. The reference electrode’s ions (suspended in liquid, gel or a polymer) are very slowly depleted with use. Electrolyte depletion occurs with all pH electrodes—whether they are heavy-duty industrial electrodes, sophisticated laboratory electrodes or pocket pH tester electrodes. If this were the only factor corrupting a pH reference electrode, however, electrode life would still be long enough.

In addition to depletion from usage, though, contaminating ions from water or soil samples can cause rapid chemical reactions with the silver and silver chloride reference electrolyte solution commonly used in pH reference electrodes. This contamination produces sluggish, erratic, incorrect or even nonexistent pH electrode responses as the reference electrode wire spoils or the reference junction clogs—the result is swift electrode failure.

This deterioration proceeds most rapidly when the pH reference electrode is a singlejunction type and the solution measured has high concentrations of ions that can contaminate and then attack critical components of the reference electrode. Some of the most common applications that seem to lead to rapid failure of pH electrodes include testing plant nutrient solutions, measuring solutions with sulfides or metal ions and determining pH levels in food and wine, as well as wastewater analysis.

Doubling the load: doublejunction electrodes A pH electrode’s junction is the porous communication point between the electrolyte solution in the reference electrode and the sample itself. Basically the electrode solution must ‘leak’ out into the sample in order for the electrode to achieve accurate results. In a single-junction electrode, the junction is in direct

pH Electrode Anatomy Single junction

Double junction 1

2 3 4

6

5

8

6 9 6

7

10

10

1) Cable 2) Cap 3) Fill hole 4) Body-glass or epoxy 5) Outer reference chamber filled with internal fill solutio n 6) Ag/AgCl wire 7) Annular reference junction allows reference solution to leak 8) Inner reference chamber 9) Outer reference chamber 10) pH sensing bulb

contact with the sample, allowing contaminants to pass directly into the electrolyte solution. The c ontaminants can then attack the reference electrode wire, sometimes quickly destroying the pH electrode itself.

In a double-junction electrode, ions that attack the pH reference electrode signal wire or react with the internal pH reference electrolyte (Ag/AgCl) take much longer to come into contact with the pH reference signal wire and internal pH reference wire.

These contaminants must migrate through the first (outer) reference junction,

build up a concentration in the cell filled with KCl reference electrolyte and finally migrate through the second (internal) reference junction before coming into contact with the pH reference electrode signal wire and internal pH reference electrolyte.

The longer it takes contaminants to reach internal reference cells the longer it delays the pH reference electrode damage that ruins the pH electrode, making the double-junction pH reference electrode and the entire pH electrode system last much longer than single-junction pH electrode systems.

Double the benefits So it’s really no secret after all—when choosing a pH meter or tester, look for models using double-junction electrodes.

These electrodes will deliver a longer life and a higher level of performance. Of course at some point all electrodes need to be replaced—and double-junction electrodes are a bit costlier to make and therefore more expensive to purchase—but for testing plant nutrient solutions, using rainfall or waste water or handling other potentially harsh fluids, the investment is well worth it. Your pH meter will display the difference! MY

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TIPS & TRICKS Once thought to be a finicky and tricky plant to grow at home, many people are discovering that some kinds of orchids are very easy to grow and care for. This might be true, but many people still wonder how to make an orchid bloom. Without the flower, the orchid is missing the element that makes these plants so desirable. If you are wondering how to make your orchid bloom, keep reading for some tips.

Light

How to Make an

For most houseplant orchids, the lack of light is the number one reason the orchid won’t flower. Orchids are deceptive because the leaves of the plant can look healthy and green, while the orchid is getting too little light to truly thrive.

If you are trying to make an orchid rebloom, the first thing to try is moving the plant to a brighter location. The best place to put an orchid is in a south- or east-facing window. Also, make sure the leaves are free of dust and dirt. Even a thin layer of dust can block the light. The same goes for the windows. Frequently clean the windows that provide light to your orchids.

When you move your orchid to brighter location, you might notice that the leaves become a lighter green. This is normal.

Orchids that are getting enough light will have light or medium green leaves.

While all orchids need light, most cannot tolerate direct sunlight. Place them near windows so they can get as much light as possible, but do not place them in the direct line of the sun’s rays.

Orchid

Bloom

by Heather Rhoades

Temperature Different kinds of orchids have different temperature needs. In order for an orchid to rebloom, it must be in the correct temperature range for its variety. Most houseplant orchids are either Cattleya, Oncidium, Paphiopedilum or Phalaenopsi. Their temperature requirements are: Cattleya – Cattleya orchids need daytime temperatures of 70 to 85°F during the day and 55 to 65°F at night in order to rebloom.

Oncidium – Oncidium orchids will rebloom if the temperatures during the day are 80 to 90°F and the nighttime temperatures are 55 to 60°F. Paphiopedilum – In order to flower, Paphiopedilum orchids typically need temperatures of 70 to 80°F during the day and 50 to 60°F at night. These kinds of orchids that have variegated leaves will prefer that these temperatures be about five degrees warmer.

Phalaenopsis – Phalaenopsis orchids prefer temperatures of 70 to 85°F during the day and 60 to 70°F at night in order to produce flowers.

Additional tips While light and temperature are crucial to making an orchid rebloom, it is also essential that your orchid gets the appropriate general care for its variety. Humidity, water and fertilizer are all important. MY (Source: gardeningknowhow.com)

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GREEN THUMB GARDENING

Bringing Nature Back

It's easy to rely on chemical-laden products to cure our gardening woes, but easy doesn't necessarily mean better. Organic methods to cure these same ills existed before the introduction of synthetic products. Plus, organic gardening adds the challenge of finding alternative solutions to everyday problems that plague nearly all green-thumbed plant lovers.

More to the heart of the matter, do you really want those chemicals and their harmful effects in your diet? Pesticides inherently aren’t meant for human consumption and the Environmental Protection Agency warns that they can cause many health problems, such as birth defects, nerve damage, cancer and other effects that might occur over time.

The saying, “You are what you eat,” takes on new meaning when you think about it that way, so it’s imperative that edibles receive

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little to no synthetic products. The following are some simple, effective organic methods to keeping your garden thriving and free of dangerous chemicals: Kill weeds with vinegar. Weeds can sprout in any garden— be it vegetable, flower or herbs—and become a breeding ground for nasty, plant-eating pests. Luckily, the ingredients for a natural, weed-killing recipe can be found in most kitchens. Just mix one quart of vinegar with two tablespoons of dish soap and voilà. (Some people also prefer boiling the vinegar beforehand.) Unlike some synthetic, commercial solutions, this mix is a biodegradable substance and no poisons are left behind. However, watch where you spray, it’s the acidic acid of vinegar that kills weeds and any plant doused with this homemade concoction will probably also die. It will also lower the pH of soil.

• Love the ladybugs. The more of these lovely creatures in your garden, the less you'll have to do to eradicate the nasty, plant-eating insects.You can get these beneficial bugs from most nurseries, and some people incorporate plants that lure them into their garden. They’ll eat those nasty aphids, spider mites, mealy bugs and soft-scale insects, and leave your plants free of chemicals.

Even as larvae, they’re predatory and eat the bad bugs.

• Reuse rainwater. When placed beneath a roof ’s downspout, a rain barrel can save water and money— even more so if you make the barrel yourself. Rainwater is naturally soft and free of the chemicals typically added to municipal water. When watering, be sure to wet the roots and not the leaves, since it’s the roots that absorb nutrients and damp foliage also can lead to insect and fungal problems.

• Fertilize naturally. There are many great organic liquid nutrients on the market, and animal manure from plant-eating creatures (rabbits, horses, chicken, sheep, etc.) is one such source. You can also make your own organic nutrients from recipes found all over the Internet.

• Full sun. Your plants need this crucial sunlight and heat for at least eight hours a day to photosynthesize.

Choose wisely where to have your garden, or containers if you’re an urban gardener, and make a routine to check on your growing babies daily.

• Use “friendly” plants. Deterring pests from visiting your garden beats dealing with infestation any day.

Along with beneficial insects, some plants actually ward bad bugs off. For example, chives, garlic and spearmint keep aphids away. Companion planting isn’t just cute, it’s necessary for a happy garden. MY Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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ToTal ConTrol:

choosing the right cooling system There are all kinds of options available to you when choosing the ideal cooling system for your garden—the tricky part is balancing upfront costs and energy savings to come out with an equation that makes sense for your particular space‌

by Stephen Keen

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ToTal coNTrol: choosiNg The righT cooliNg sysTem

periods of time—and all of those heat sources must be "Sizing a cooling system for a considered in order to accugarden is quite different from rately size the cooling system. sizing an air conditioner for a Heat is measured in BTUs per hour and cooling systems home or commercial building." are sized based on the BTUs per hour they’re capable of removing. Generally speaking, one ton of coolSo you’ve decided to build a new ing capacity is equal to 12,000 BTUs. garden—oh, the choices you have to We touched on this in great detail in a make! What kind of reflectors, bulbs and previous issue, but to briefly recap—the ballasts? How many plants will fit in the sources of heat in your garden are things like bulbs, ballasts, pumps, dehumidispace? Do you want to use a hydroponic system or traditional soil methods? And fiers, CO2 generators and, of course, the what kind of cooling system will work ambient outside temperature. There is an best for you? Of course, the size of your excellent chart included in this article garden will have a huge effect on the that can assist you with determining the system you choose, but there are a lot of specific heat load in your garden—keep other variables, too—energy efficiency, in mind that the chart assumes that your geographic location and personal prefergarden is completely sealed with no air ences will all be part of the decision. cooling of the lights and that insulaThe first thing that must be considered tion is moderate. Once your heat load is is the size of the system that you need. determined, the fun begins. What kind Sizing a cooling system for a garden is of cooling system should you choose?

There are so many options available and quite different from sizing an air condithey all have their pros and cons. tioner for a home or commercial building. A garden has many more sources of heat than your home—all in use for long Evaporative coolers A low-cost, energy-efficient method— particularly in greenhouse cooling—is the evaporative cooling method. When

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water evaporates it absorbs BTUs, resulting in general cooling. Evaporative cooling methods take advantage of this process by spraying a fine mist of water into the air—as the water evaporates, the temperature is reduced. However, this method is far more effective in greenhouse applications than in a typical indoor garden, because the evaporation of water into the air results in a drastic humidity increase—most of us are battling humidity already and would prefer not to add to the problem by creating even more. Also, as the humidity in the garden increases, the less likely the water from the evaporative cooler is to evaporate—so eventually you add so much humidity to the environment that you don’t get any cooling at all and you run the risk of your garden ending up hot and humid. Evaporative coolers are a great solution if you can make them work consistently in your application, but in the indoor gardening world their use is extremely limited.

Traditional air conditioning Traditional air conditioning systems are available in every imaginable size and application, ranging from the 5,000 BTU window system to the 240,000 BTU 20 tonne commercial rooftop monster. Within this range of sizes are multiple options, upgrades, configurations and energy ratings to choose from.

When you choose an air conditioner for your cooling needs, keep in mind that you’ll likely be using it all year-round. Most a/c systems are intended to run only in summertime when the weather is warm, so you’ll need to verify that your choice can be used without damage to its components when outdoor temperatures are below freezing. Modifications like compressor heaters, low-ambient start kits and other minor fixes might need to be made.You should also understand that

ToTal coNTrol: choosiNg The righT cooliNg sysTem

most air conditioners will begin to lose efficiency when the outdoor temperature gets above 80°F. If you purchase a five ton system, it’s likely only outputting that five tons of actual cooling when the temperature is no warmer than 80°F outside—if it’s any warmer, you might only get 4.5 tons and when it’s outrageously hot, you might only get 3.5 or four tons of cooling from it.

The amount of efficiency loss varies by brand and model, but when you live in a very hot climate you should always choose an air conditioner that’s at least 10 per cent larger than you really need to compensate for the efficiency loss in the very hot months—or you should plan on a backup method for those extremely hot days.

Window-mount air conditioners are a common choice for the small garden.

They are convenient, lightweight, inexpensive and easy to install. The largest

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window-mount system commonly available is about 24,000 BTU (two tons),

running besides the lighting. Window mount air conditioners don’t provide quite as many options with regard to energy efficiency as the larger "Evaporative coolers are a units typically do, but their convenience and low cost will often great solution if you can make outweigh this, especially in a very them work consistently in your small garden. application, but in the indoor In larger gardens or when energy gardening world their use is efficiency is more important, a split or self-contained wholeextremely limited." house a/c is often a better choice, as there are a multitude of opso unless you have multiple units, the tions available with this type of system. most you can expect to cool with this The higher the SEER (efficiency) rating size a/c is a 4,000 to 8,000 watt garden. the more energy efficient the unit will Obviously this figure covers a pretty be.You can choose to go with a tradiwide range—the wattage that can be tional home a/c, but these units will cooled with a two ton a/c varies wildly, always require that an HVAC technician based on whether you’re air cooling installs them. Within our industry, there your lights, if your garden is sealed, what are several manufacturers of DIY a/c the outdoor ambient temperature is and systems and most gardeners choose to go what other equipment you might have this route. These units can be purchased

Maximum Yield USA | February 2012

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ToTal coNTrol: choosiNg The righT cooliNg sysTem

(usually by special order) at any indoor gardening retail store. The split units with pre-charged refrigerant lines are typically available in sizes ranging from two to five tons. They consist of an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser/ compressor; the cold refrigerant circulates through the air handler and the air from the garden circulates over the heat exchanger in the air handler—just like the central a/c system in most homes—except that end-users can connect the refrigerant lines themselves.

In larger configurations there are also self-contained models available, typically from five to 20 tons. These units have the entire refrigeration system located in one box and all you have to do is connect ducting to install the system—with no refrigeration connections needed, installation is made very simple. Most very large commercial buildings use this type of set-up, except in cases where a chiller system is employed (more on that later).

Consider that once you get over five tons you’ll be looking at a fairly sizable unit, so you’ll need to organize the equipment and manpower to get it properly placed in your facility.

Chiller systems Chiller systems are the Cadillacs of cooling. They are generally more expensive than a/c systems, but they can be as much as 30 per cent more energy efficient than a high SEER a/c system.

There are a few reasons for this—one is that the heat capacity of water is quadruple that of air, so it takes four times as much heat to increase the temperature of water than it does to increase the temperature of air. A traditional air conditioner comes on when the air in the room increases in temperature, but the compressor on a chiller won’t come on until the water increases in temperature.

Because it takes so much longer for water to heat up, the chiller will run less often to achieve the same cooling results—as long as there is cold water in the system,

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you get air conditioning "Most a/c systems are intended to run even when no energy is only in summertime when the weather being consumed by the is warm, so you’ll need to verify chiller. Because there is so much more heat conthat your choice can be used without tained in the water than damage to its components when outdoor would be contained in temperatures are below freezing." air, when the compressor of the chiller does come on, the capacity of the refrigerant to hold heat is maximized. This means that chillers don’t typically start to lose efficiency but when energy efficiency is at the top until the outdoor temperatures are closer of your priority list, chiller systems are to 100°F, because the differential between the most efficient solution. When you the outdoor temperature and the temconsider the savings in electricity the opperature of the refrigerant is much higher erating cost of a chiller is far lower than than it is in a traditional air conditioner. that of an air conditioner, so you’ll nearly Most large commercial buildings such as always make up the additional expense hospitals, hotels and major manufacturing within a few months in the form of a facilities employ chiller systems for their lower electric bill. MY cooling needs because of the extreme savings in energy consumption.

Chiller systems generally consist of an outdoor water chiller and indoor air-to-water heat exchangers with fans— these can be small heat exchangers with external fans for the small garden or large air handler systems for larger gardens.

They are simple to install, because no refrigeration work is ne eded. The only thing traveling between the outdoor chiller and the indoor heat exchanger is a water line—this allows you to seal the garden completely and makes the system very simple to install. The downside is a slightly higher upfront cost,

avant-gardening

Noshing

CO2

by Peter Vakomies

Plants have no teeth…or do they?

RuBisCO

The enzyme known as Ribulose Bisphosphate Carboxylase, or RuBisCO, might be the closest thing plants have to teeth. This enzyme grabs CO2 gas molecules and attaches them to a five carbon sugar molecule, thereby, assimilating more carbon atoms into the Calvin Cycle. It fixes a molecule of CO2 to another five carbon sugar (ribulose) making a new six carbon sugar every

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time it cycles through its enzymatic function. Considering the super low CO2 concentration of 0.0035 per cent present on Earth today, RuBisCO has essentially chewed most of the carbon out of the atmosphere and fixed it into plants.

By grabbing a single CO2 molecule out of the air every 0.3 seconds, every RuBisCO enzyme is at the heart of the

photosynthesis machinery. This is a ‘chewing rate’ of around three molecules of CO2 per second, which is quite slow compared to most other enzymes. Because of its abundance and essential role in life, the RuBisCO enzyme also happens to be the most abundant protein on earth. If you could extract the whole biosphere's protein to make a giant Earth-smoothieprotein-shake, RuBisCO alone would make up over 50 per cent of the total protein.

RuBisCO is a large complex molecule, which in more advanced plants is built from 16 separate sub-units forming an amazingly complex protein structure. It is located in the chlorophyll-containing organelles (chloroplasts) found inside every green plant and algae cell. RuBisCO is a miracle of nature that has been evolving since life began—a true protein nanomachine that drives all life on Earth.

The enzyme does not restrict its diet to CO2 alone; it will also 'chew' on oxygen molecules, which slows photosynthetic yields.

There are eight locations for CO2 to bind to in each RuBisCO enzyme, and these are also able to bind oxygen molecules. For this reason, RuBisCO is located in an oxygen-reduced environment inside plant cells and tucked away inside chloroplasts.

Chloroplasts contain dense accumulations of the large enzyme in patches; in some algae there are super complexes of RuBisCO accumulated into structures called pyrenoids. Discoveries with unicellular algae have shown just how localized the teeth can be; in efforts to concentrate CO2 around RuBisCO when CO2 becomes depleted, some algal plants will make RuBisCO only on one side of the chloroplast, meaning only one half has teeth and can actually grab CO2, while the other half actually has no teeth and acts as a reservoir of Calvin Cycle intermediates, shunting the required substrates to the side with teeth.

This is a mechanism to compensate for depleted CO2 when O2 becomes a competing substrate, unique to some algae.

But back in the greenhouse, imagine starving a crop of CO2.

CO2 in a well-sealed greenhouse or growroom will be assimilated starting the moment after dawn when light becomes bright enough. From a typical concentration of 350 ppm CO2 in the air, CO2 can drop to 160 ppm in under two hours. This will stop plant growth by starving their cells' RuBisCO enzymes of their favorite thing to chew on. At this point oxygen can even out-compete the reduced levels of CO2 and cause photorespiration, a wasteful use of captured light energy, sending the plant's teeth to chatter and chew on junk food. MY

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Hydroponic A Not so Dirty Business After All

by Dr. Mike Nichols

Growing leeks is traditionally a dirty business— but hydroponics is about to change all that…

The first job I obtained after graduating from the University of Nottingham in 1957 was to work for a large market garden some 30 miles south of London. F A Secrett Ltd supplied Covent Garden with a range of fresh vegetables year-round, but their main production was oriented toward early lettuce and cauliflower production—and with this in mind they required a regular labor force, which they retained during the winter months by growing large quantities of leeks.

Early vegetable production required a sandy soil and this—provided irrigation is available—is also ideal for growing leeks. It was my experience that even with a sandy soil, however, harvesting

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hyDropoNic leeks

and washing of leeks for market was a very demanding task. It was therefore of great interest to me in 2011 to listen to Dr. Erik van Os presenting a paper entitled "Recent Developments in the Netherlands Towards the Development of Hydroponic Leeks" at the soilless culture and hydroponic symposium held in Puebla, Mexico in May of that year.

Traditionally, leeks are grown from seed sown in nursery beds in the field and the young plants are then transplanted into the field during the summer. As the white blanched stem is the usable product, it is normal to mold the plants up with soil as they grow—because of this, the between-the-row spacing is normally up to about three feet and the in-the-row spacing is normally six to eight inches. With adequate nutrition, irrigation and weed control, yields tend to be about 30 t/ha. Some efforts have been made to direct-drill leeks in situ at much higher plant densities by markedly increasing the between-the-row spacing, but although this will produce a blanched stem the diameter of the leeks is still normally considered to be too thin for market.

A major disadvantage of conventional production is that even when a sandy soil is used there is a huge amount of labor (over 600 hours/ha) required to harvest, wash and trim the crop for market. Large quantities of water are also required to wash the leeks—a major environmental problem with all root vegetables.

Harvesting is usually a late summer, autumn, winter and early spring operation, as it is impossible to plant seedling leeks outside too early in the spring since they might go to seed and overwintering leeks tend to go to seed as soon as the weather warms up in the spring. This is why there is always a two to three month period when leeks are not available in the late spring or early summer. Growing hydroponic leeks might open up the opportunity of producing ‘out of season’ leeks by using a greenhouse.

Harvesting in the field is a dirty operation, as it involves digging leeks either by hand or machine, trimming off the roots and tops and then transferring them to a pack house for washing, final trimming and packing. Some of the outer leaves

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hyDropoNic leeks

"Leeks grow much faster in a hydroponic system than in the soil, probably because the nutrition and watering they receive are so much superior to what they get in a soil-based system."

will almost certainly have to be removed to produce a nice white blanched stem.

It is normal to produce only a single leek crop per year, requiring some eight weeks in the seed bed and at least three months in the field—probably longer if the crop is maturing during the winter months.

Growing leeks hydroponically is a totally different operation— for a start, the time in the nursery is greatly extended in order to produce a larger and taller plant, while the time from transplanting to harvest is significantly reduced. Experience in The Netherlands suggests that from sowing to planting out averages 87 days, while the time from transplanting to harvest averages only 48 days, except during the winter months. Leeks grow much faster in a hydroponic system than in the soil, probably because the nutrition and watering they receive are so superior to what they get in a soil-based system.

There is still a considerable way to go until the best methodology for producing hydroponic leeks is determined.

For example, there is some debate regarding the most effective method for growing the seedling transplants—should they be produced in rockwool, or some other media? Certainly they need to be grown at high density in order to get a good stem length prior to transplanting, but how can this best be achieved?

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hyDropoNic leeks

There is also some doubt concerning the most efficient hydroponic system to use for growing the plants to maturity—clearly it must be a soilless (and medium-free) system, but whether this should be a deep-flow or an NFT system has yet to be determined.

What is clear, however, is that the plants should be placed in eightinch long pipes (to obtain a blanched stem) and that the pipes should be held in place by the NFT or the deep-flow cover.

Of course productivity is the name of the game and because it is no longer required to mold up the leeks they can be grown much closer together between the rows. In fact, there appears to be no reduction in yield per plant up to a density of 10 plants per square foot, which gives us in some 40 days a yield of close to 80 t/ha. This compares more

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than favorably with the 30 to 40 t/ha achieved in the field in a year, with the added advantage that harvesting simply involves pulling a nice clean leek plant from the hydroponic system, cutting off the roots and top and possibly peeling off one or two leaves.

The question in my mind is: do we need to grow this crop outside, or would it be better to grow it year-round in a greenhouse? If we are able to grow an 80 t/ha crop in 40 days in the field, then presumably we should be able to produce a similar yield in a slightly shorter time in a greenhouse—so it should not be impossible to achieve 10 or even 12 crops per year using such a system. At 80 t/ha from each cycle, we would be looking at something in the region of an amazing 900 to 1,000 t/ha of quality leeks per year. MY Originally published in Practical Hydroponics.

by All the cAre you tAke to ensure the heAlth of your plAnts will hAve gone to wAste if you give them poor-quAlity wAter to drink—guy selA tAkes us through the science behind irrigAtion wAter quAlity…

Both irrigation water quality and proper irrigation management are critical to successful crop production.

The quality of irrigation water might affect both crop yields and the physical condition of the soil, even if all other conditions and cultural practices are favorable. In addition, different crops require different irrigation water qualities.

This means that testing irrigation water prior to selecting a site and the crops to be grown is critical. The quality of some water sources might change significantly with time or during certain periods—like dry or rainy seasons—so it is recommended to have more than one sample taken, at different time periods.

The parameters that determine irrigation water quality are divided into three categories: chemical, physical and biological. In this article the chemical properties of irrigation water will be discussed.

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irrigaTioN WaTer QualiTy

The chemical characteristics of irrigation water refer to the content of salts in the water as well as to parameters derived from the composition of salts in the water—parameters such as EC/TDS (electrical conductivity/ total dissolved solids), SAR (sodium adsorption ratio), alkalinity and hardness.

The primary natural source of salts in irrigation water is weathering of rocks and minerals. Other secondary sources include atmospheric deposition of oceanic salts (salts in rainwater), saline water from rising groundwater and the intrusion of sea water into groundwater aquifers. Fertilizer chemicals that leach to water sources might also affect irrigation water quality.

Irrigation water salinity The main problem related to irrigation water quality is water salinity—which refers to the total amount of salts dissolved in the water, but it does not indicate which salts are present.

High levels of salts in irrigation water reduce water availability to the crop (because of osmotic pressure) and cause yield reduction. Above a certain threshold, reduction in crop yield is proportional to the increase in salinity level. Different crops vary in their tolerance to salinity and, therefore, have different thresholds and yield reduction rates.

“

high levels of sAlts in irrigAtion wAter reduce wAter AvAilAbility to the crop (becAuse of osmotic pressure) And cAuse yield reduction.

”

The most common parameters used for determining irrigation water quality in relation to its salinity are EC and TDS. If irrigation water salinity exceeds the threshold for the crop, yield reduction will occur.

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irrigaTioN WaTer QualiTy

tds ppm or mg/l ec ds/m

sAlinity hAzArd

<500

<0.8

Low

500 – 1,000

0.8 - 1.6

MediuM

1,000 – 2,000

1.6 - 3

HigH

> 2,000 >3 Very HigH

Sodium hazard and irrigation water infiltration The parameter used to determine the sodium hazard is SAR, or sodium adsorption ratio. This factor indicates the amount of sodium in the irrigation water in relation to calcium and magnesium. Calcium and magnesium tend to counter the negative effect of sodium.

High SAR levels might result in a breakdown of soil structure and water infiltration problems. Soil tends to seal and become hard and compact when it’s too dry.

Ironically, higher salinity reduces the negative effect of sodium on soil structure. When sodium levels in the soil are high in relation to calcium and magnesium—in other words, when the SAR is high—flushing the soil with good-quality irrigation water will only exacerbate the problem.

Toxicity of specific ions Irrigation water quality can be also determined by the toxicity of specific ions. The difference between a salinity problem and a toxicity problem is that toxicity occurs within the plant itself, as a result of the accumulation of a specific ion in the leaves. The most common ions that cause a toxicity problem are chloride, sodium and boron. As they do with salinity levels, crops differ in their sensitivity to these ions.

Special attention should be given to boron levels because toxicity occurs at very low concentrations, even though boron is an essential plant nutrient—toxic levels of even a single ion in irrigation water might make the water unsuitable.

There are some management practices that can help reduce the damage, however. These practices include proper leaching, increasing the frequency of irrigations, avoiding overhead irrigation, avoiding the use of fertilizers containing chloride or boron, and selecting the right crops.

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irrigaTioN WaTer QualiTy

Alkalinity and pH Alkalinity is the sum of the amounts of bicarbonates (HCO3-), carbonates (CO32-) and hydroxide (OH-) in water. It is expressed as mg/l or meq/l CaCO3. Alkalinity buffers the water against sudden changes in pH. If the alkalinity is too low, any addition of acidic fertilizers will immediately lower the pH. In container plants and hydroponics, ions released by plant roots may also rapidly change the pH if alkalinity is low.

Infiltration problems resulting from low irrigation water quality As mentioned earlier, SAR (sodium adsorption ratio) is an irrigation water parameter used to predict problems of water infiltration into soil. SAR is determined as: Apart from water shortage— which is a result of water infiltration problems—some other related problems might occur as well; for example, weed growth, diseases, poor aeration, poor germination of seeds or root rot.

Various measures can be taken to overcome water infiltration problems that are related to water quality, including reducing the SAR of the water supply, cultivation and tillage, the addition of organic residues, irrigation management, and water or soil amendments.

Soil amendments and irrigation water quality The purpose of soil amendments is to counter the effect of sodium by increasing the soluble calcium content or by increasing the salinity of the irrigation water.

Gypsum and other calcium-supplying materials Gypsum is the most commonly used soil amendment. Since water infiltration problems caused by sodium affect mainly the upper few centimeters of soil, repeated small applications of gypsum—incorporated at lower rates into a shallow depth—are preferred over a single large application.

If the salinity of the irrigation water is low (EC<0.5 ds/m), gypsum can be added to the irrigation water at rates of one 160

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

irrigaTioN WaTer QualiTy

to four meq/l of dissolved calcium.

Other amendments When lime (CaCO3) is present in soil, some acids or acid-forming amendments can be used—these will cause calcium to be released into the soil solution.

Some of these amendments are elemental sulfur, sulfuric acid and ferric sulfate.

Organic residues These amendments improve soil structure and water infiltration by keeping the soil porous.

Water infiltration can be improved either by increasing irrigation water salinity or by reducing the SAR. By diluting the irrigation water source with water having a lower sodium concentration, the SAR of the irrigation water is reduced, even if calcium and magnesium concentrations are higher.

When salts build up in soil or in the growing medium, their concentration might become excessive. Salts are added to soil via irrigation water and with applied fertilizers. Applying more water than is needed by the crop leaches the salt below the root zone, deeper into

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the soil or out of the growing medium (when growing container plants). It is important to know how much to leach and when.The leaching requirement can be estimated from the following equation: LR = ECw/ [5*ECe - ECw)] Where LR is the minimum leaching requirement for the crop, ECw is the electrical conductivity of the irrigation water in ds/m (irrigation water salinity) and ECe is the soil EC tolerated by the crop, measured in a saturated soil extract.

“

knowing the totAl Amount of irrigAtion wAter to Apply is not enough for mAnAging sAlinity—irrigAtion intervAls must Also be considered.

”

The total irrigation water amount that has to be applied to meet both crop demand and your leaching requirement can be estimated from the equation: AW = ET/ (1-LR) Where AW is the amount of irrigation water that has to be applied, ET is the crop water demand and LR is the calculated leaching requirement. For example: Crop water demand - 30m3/ha/day ECe = 2.5 ds/m, ECw = 1.2 ds/m LR = 1.2/(5*2.5-1.2) = 0.1 AW = 30/(1-0.1) = 33.33 m3/ha/day

Knowing the total amount of irrigation water to apply is not enough for managing salinity—irrigation intervals must also be considered.The appropriate irrigation intervals will depend not only on crop water demand, but also on factors such as the salinity threshold of the crop and the soil’s capacity to hold water.

Applying the same amount of water to two soils with different characteristics will result in different wetting patterns and depths. Irrigation depth in a heavy soil is lower than in a sandy soil, since heavy soils hold more water than sandy soils—this means that heavy soils require higher application amounts of irrigation water at larger intervals in order to prevent an accumulation of salts exceeding the salinity threshold of the crop.

It must be noted, though, that salinity in the root zone increases between irrigations as a result of crop water uptake and water evaporation from the soil.The timing of leaching is not critical provided the salinity threshold of the crop is not exceeded. MY

Maximum Yield USA | March 2012

163

Get Smart Grow Hydro: 1, 2, 3

by Chad Garbet Grow your own. Hydroponic gardens are great for adults and kids alike, plus they are easy on the wallet and the environment. Canadian hydroponicist and grow store expert Chad Garbet tells you how in three easy steps.

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geT smarT: groW hyDro 1, 2, 3

Many beginners looking to try hydroponics have—after little success and much frustration—concluded that hydroponics is too much work and too complicated. I’m here to tell you that doesn’t have to be the case. A well main-tained hydroponic system requires less hands-on work and less hassle compared to a typical outdoor garden. Even if you don’t want to grow one complete garden from start to harvest, you can start small, experiment and maybe gain some expe-rience for your green thumb. Gardeners tend to have a sense of adventure and the curiosity of a cat, always watching, waiting and anticipating growth. Think of your garden—no matter the size—as a giant experiment.

Dir e ct io n S :

1. Cut or drill the bucket lid so your net pot can comfortably sit in it. A hole saw works great.

If you don’t have a hole saw an X-Acto knife is a suitable alternative. Be very careful though to keep your fingers in and cut away from your body.

2. Next, drill a hole slightly smaller than ¼ inch so your air line will go through with an airtight seal.

3. After you feed you airline through the ¼ hole and attach the airstone, connect it to the pump and fill it with water. Make sure the airstone is letting off micro bubbles for propn make a simple deep With just $25 to $35 you ca ill need: er aeration.

uw water culture system. Yo • A bucket with a lid¼ inch line • An air pump with • An airstone s ks ck oc h grow rro it w d lle fi ot p et n A • u ou yo edium y (or whatever grow m wish to use) gardening shop.

All of these items can be

166

r

found at your local indoo

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

This is a basic deep water culture system.

All you have to do is put your rocks (or grow medium of choice) in the net pot with your plant snuggly in the rocks

geT smarT: groW hyDro 1, 2, 3

"this little tip will r save you time, wate and nutrients too: o be buckets only need t ." changed once weekly

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

and fill with water and your nutrient mix and adjust the pH to the plant’s preference.

Success is up to you The rest of the work is maintenance, but more importantly watching your plant grow.

Compare it to some soil plants that you plant at the same time and watch the difference; see how well hydroponics works and watch the plant’s root mass grow.

Change your bucket out once a week and give it a quick cleaning to prevent any root mould or mildew problems.

Always make sure to maintain proper pH after you add your nutrient mix. Come back the next week and do the same thing, ensuring your roots are clean and white (any brown might indicate root rot). It’s also important to keep a diary of how much nutrient you use and anything that is off or interesting about you plant for later reference.

This little tip will save you time, water and nutrients too: buckets only need to be change once weekly, although they might have to be topped up a few times a week once they get bigger.

Hydroponics can save you time and effort, and it can also save you money.

Growing fruits and vegetables is fun and rewarding once you get the hang of it, and it can also save on gas and grocery bills.

geT smarT: groW hyDro 1, 2, 3

"The bucket system is versatile and can be placed almost anywhere as long as the air pump has a dry place above the bucketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water level."

The bucket system is versatile and can be placed almost anywhere as long as the air pump has a dry place above the bucketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water level.You can even place them in ornamental pots and add them to your deck or patio. They are great for indoor gardens or greenhouses. Even a small bucket can be put in a kitchen window for herbs, or flowers as long as they get full light.

Experiments of this nature are great for children (adults should be present when children are using tools, sharp objects or measuring nutrients). Hydroponics can be an inexpensive hobby for kids and teaches them a great deal about plant growth, a bit of work ethic and a keen sense of responsibility. Let them grow some lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure no child would have a problem making a salad they grew themselves for their family.

Let the kids keep their own garden journal and care for their own plants, and help them fix any problems that might arise. MY

"Hydroponics can be an inexpensive hobby for kids and teaches them a great deal about plant growth, a bit of work ethic and a keen sense of responsibility."

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

10 FACTS ON…WATER

BY PHILIP MCINTOSH

Many of us take water for granted.

What could possibly be so special about such a common substance?

1. Water is chemically classified as a compound, and a relatively simple one at that. a water molecule is composed of a single oxygen atom attached to two hydrogen atoms (H2O).

2. Water’s interesting properties result from its polarity. Polar water molecules have a neutral but unbalanced electric charge.

3. the oxygen end has a slightly negative charge and the hydrogen side has a slightly positive charge.

4. Because of its unique structural and electrical characteristics, water has the unusual property of expanding when it freezes.

5. as a result, ice is less dense than liquid water. thus, ice floats. if it didn’t, all the ice in the oceans would sink and remain frozen.

6. this cycle of freezing and sinking would continue until the oceans were all ice, and life on earth would almost certainly be impossible.

7. relative to the sun, the earth exists in what is whimsically called “the goldilocks Zone.” it’s not too hot and not too cold, which allows water to exist and easily transition between all three states of matter (solid, liquid, gas).

8. it is commonly known that about 70 per cent of the earth’s surface is a covered with water. true, but only 2.5 per cent of all the earth’s water is fresh.

9. Of that 2.5 per cent fresh water, only about one per cent of it is accessible in lakes, rivers and shallow underground reservoirs. Bottom line—only about 0.007 per cent of our water is readily available for use.

10. according to a UneSCO World Science report, after population growth, water scarcity will be the most pressing problem facing humans in the 21st century.

WATER IS A PRECIOUS RESOURCE. DON’T WASTE IT! MY 172

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YOU TELL US

Team AutoPot from left: Jason Ralph Smith (CEO), Katie Sheppard (stock manager), Heather Pearl (project manager), Barbara Sykes (accounts manager) and Paul Milner (sales director).

AutoPot’s Jason Ralph-Smith recently took time to answer a few questions for us about their project in the Maldives, the work the company is doing with kids around the world and what’s on the drawing board…

Maximum Yield (M Y): How did the whole AutoPot concept begin?

Jason Ralph-Smith: AutoPot began when I spotted an opening in the market for an irrigation system requiring no power that could bridge the gap between the hydroponics industry and the domestic greenhouse market. AutoPot watering systems require no power, timers or pumps, so they can be used on a vast scale easily and effectively in a way that systems requiring electricity cannot. I began AutoPot 10 years ago because I wanted to create a system that could be used by everyone—from novice growers to horticultural experts—and I have spent the last 10 years developing, refining and expanding the range.

MY: What’s the biggest project out there currently using your system? How big a scale are we talking about?

Jason: The AutoPot project in the Maldives is by far our largest and most exciting project. It began with our Maldivian rep

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Zahid constructing a commercial greenhouse—he now has over 2,500 pots and is expanding AutoPot across the islands. Hotel resorts, including the Holiday Inn, are now trialing our systems to supply fresh produce to their restaurants, rather than incurring the environmental and financial costs of importing produce from Dubai.

The Maldivian government has approved Zahid’s proposal to lease an island with 155 acres of land and 208 acres in lagoon area for 35 years. The island will be an agricultural research and training center designed to empower and educate locals about how to grow their own produce. A variety of agricultural methods will be demonstrated on a very large scale; within this set-up there will be an AutoPot horticultural site that will demonstrate the effectiveness of our irrigation systems. Zahid recently met with the minister of fisheries and agriculture, who was extremely keen and positive about the initiative—which will help locals to sustain themselves rather than having to purchase highly priced, low-quality imported produce.

MY: Who’s Josh, and why should we ask him stuff?

Jason: The ‘Ask Josh’ section of the website is named after Josh, my son. The whole AutoPot team contributes to answering the questions posted and so far there has not been a question we haven’t been able to answer! Ask Josh features a database of over 540 problems we’ve solved in the last 10 years—with everyone from retailers, end-users and professional horticulturalists posting questions. We take time to answer every question— between us we are sure we can help!

MY: Can you please explain your ‘Little Growers’ initiative to our readers? (Which, by the way— we LOVE!) Jason: Little Growers is an educational charity that I established in 2007 in response to the increasing trend of children becoming disassociated from the source of their food. We now work with over 30 schools in the United Kingdom and others around the world—including Japan, South Africa and the Maldives. Little Growers provides schools with everything they need to have their own growing projects, including polytunnels, raised beds, seeds and AutoPot watering systems. One of the main hurdles to growing in schools is watering during holidays and weekends; AutoPots provide a solution for teachers, ensuring their projects are fed and watered year-round. Our schools are now running their own vegetable markets to sell their produce, using it for school dinners and even forming environmental after-school clubs.

Little Growers aims to develop as many skills as possible for the students involved; not only horticultural and healthy eating knowledge, but also teamwork, numeracy and business aptitude. We are extremely proud of all the hard work that has been put into the initiatives—it is truly amazing to see how far the children have come.

MY: Can you tell us a little about yourself and your philosophy?

Jason: I’ve been in the horticultural industry for over 20 years and I’m extremely passionate about creating simple but marketleading products. I have dedicated the last 10 years to building AutoPot from scratch—it all began in my garage with £48!

My ultimate vision is to see AutoPot used in third world countries to solve the economic and environmental challenges they face in agricultural production. I see AutoPot becoming a worldwide market leader in all sectors—hydroponics, hobby gardening, commercial and gardencenter markets—in the next five years, due to its simplicity and its ability to solve any watering problem, no matter how large or small.

MY: What is an AQUAbox Spyder and how does it work?

Jason: The AQUAbox Spyder is a relatively new product—it utilizes the same AQUAvalve technology as our tray systems but is for use directly in the ground, so it’s perfect for raised beds and allotments. The box is placed in the soil and connected to a water tank. It has 12 strips of capillary matting that are cut to fit the growing area—the matting acts like sponge, absorbing the water and distributing it into the soil. The roots then attach themselves to this and are fed and watered when required.

MY: Do you have anything new and exciting in the R and D stage you are at liberty to tell us about?

Jason: There is something very exciting in the pipeline at AutoPot—we never like to rest on our laurels or stagnate!

The product is still in the R & D stage, but it utilizes entirely aeroponic growing technology with our 1Pot and easy2grow systems. There is no soil or medium—just water and feed supplied directly to the plant. We are also pleased to announce a brand new product, the AutoPot 1Pot XL—we’ve decided to develop this product after numerous requests from customers for a larger-volume pot version of our current systems. We’re aiming for the 1Pot XL to be available by the end of July. MY

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

175

TALKING SHOP

at a gLanCe Company: green Brothers Hydroponics, inc.

Owners: Joanna J. Lopez Location: Panorama City, California Phone: 1-818-891-0200 Email: greenbroshydro@gmail.com Website: greenbroshydro.com Motto: “Organics and Growing Green”

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Green Brothers Hydroponics believes it is their job to stock everything you’ll need to set up and maintain a successful garden inside or out—and by everything they mean more than 4,000 different products…

Green Brothers Hydroponics, Inc. is a Panorama City, California-based retailer of quality gardening supplies. The store covers all aspects of gardening—from indoor supplies to hydroponics, organic and greenhouse gardening. With a wide variety of over 4,000 different products on the shelves, Green Brothers Hydroponics offers its customers quality products, and the assistance and guidance of extremely helpful and knowledgeable staff.

The very first inspiration for the owners, Joanna and Sas Lopez, to open their store and get into the gardening industry was the memory of their home in the

ess was mall busin s a s a t u o gainst "Starting compete a o t g in v a h ved to be a tough and chains pro g in n e d r nge." big ga us challe tremendo

Middle East.

People from the Middle East always have fresh herbs at the table and gardening there is simply part of the culture.

Green Brothers started out small—with only three employees at the time the company opened for business. Starting out as a small business was tough and having to compete against big gardening chains proved to be a tremendous challenge. However, by putting in countless hours of hard work and stocking the quality products that customers were looking for, Green Brothers Hydroponics has managed to establish itself as a

respectable and trustworthy grow shop in the booming California gardening scene.

The company motto is “Organics and Growing Green.” Joanna, Sas and their staff believe that organic growing is far better for both the environment and the human body, and that growing green is just too important for modern society to ignore. Growing green means growing the same amount while saving electricity and water—it’s really the smartest way to grow and at Green Brothers Hydropon Hydroponics, they believe in smart gardening.

Green Brothers offers a great selection of the most popular and effective brands on the market today at affordable prices. Some of the exclusive products Joanna and Sas stock for their customers include: Sun System grow lights, Sun Blaze T5 HO fluorescent grow lights, Galaxy digital ballasts, Master Blaster 1500 watt digital ballasts, Phresh carbon filters, Lumatek digital ballasts and grow lamps, Ultra Sun horticultural lamps, Eye Hortilux lamps, Grodan rockwool, Sun Gro growing media (Sunshine and Black Gold), Premier Horticulture Pro Mix, Ushio lamps, Flame Defender fire extinguishers and many more.

Green Brothers Hydroponics is also a retailer for leading brand name suppliers such as General Hydroponics, Adjust a Wings, Botanicare, Eco Plus, Ideal Air, Titan Controls, Foxfarm, Bloombastic, Atami, Hydro Dynamics, Roots Organics, Dutchmaster, Grotek, Earth Juice, Dyna Gro, Humboldt Nutrients, Mother

Green Brothers is a one-stop gardening center where every type of grower can come to take advantage of superior product selection, expert advice and superfriendly service.

Known for only carrying the top brands in the market, Green Brothers Hydroponics has become known as the place to go in order to get the best products for gardening in Pan Panorama City. For instance, Green Brothers carries en ations, Gre r o p r o c s Sun System, the leading hydroponic ected with n n o c ly "Unlike big e m brand of growing lights re ey are ydro is ext City and th Brothers H a m for indoor and green greena r o n Pa y unit nity of with comm d e the commu lv house gardening.

What Whato v in getting ts. " c je o constantly r p ever specific materials or d n a activities tools you need, whatever your growing requirements or level getting involved with of expertise, Green Brothers will be able to hook you up with the products community activities and projects. you’re looking for and they’ll make sure Joanna and Sas and their manager, Armen you understand how to use everything Aharonian, firmly believe that giving back to their community is essential in you’ve purchased most effectively in order to maintain a trustworthy relationorder to obtain your maximum yield. ship with their customers.

Take the time to drop in for a visit no All types of gardeners are welcome at matter what your gardening needs might Green Brothers. The staff is qualified be—it doesn’t matter whether you are a to offer expert and meaningful advice hobbyist or a commercial grower, Green on every aspect of the business, from Brothers has the experience and the amateur and personal gardening to mass products to help you succeed. They are production commercial-scale growing. happy to be doing business in the city of Everything necessary to start growing is Panorama because the local community available at Green Brothers Hydroponhas been very supportive, and Joanna, Sas, ics—they offer all types of media, includArmen and the rest of the Green Brothing soilless mixes, soil, hydroton grow ers team look forward to the opportunity rocks, coco fiber and rockwool, as well as to be able to continue giving back to a great variety of hydroponics supplies. their community in the years ahead. MY Earth, Gro Pro, Super Nutrients, House & Garden, Technaflora, EZ Clone and Hydro Logic.

The staff at Green Brother’s Hydroponics is always happy to recommend energy-saving brands as well as high-end products at the very best prices. Unlike big hydroponics corporations, Green Brothers Hydro is extremely connected with the community of Panorama City and they are constantly

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

177

Win Big! MaXIMuM yIeLd’s

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Enter now at maximumyield.com/winbig

1 Win growstone Hydroponic Media (2 bags) Growstone products are manufactured in the United States and are made entirely from recycled materials. Growstones replace strip-mined materials like hydroton and perlite, reducing environmental degradation. The winner will take home either two bags of our Hydroponic Growth Media or our Super Soil Aerator. Visit growstone.com

3 Win

2 Win Smart Pots (25) The patented Smart Pot is a soft-sided, aeration fabric container that holds its shape and can even support large trees. It air-prunes roots to enhance a plant’s root structure.

The winner will win 25 Smart Pots in either #1 (one gallon), #2 (two gallons), #3 (three gallons) or #5 (five gallons). Visit smartpots.com

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This prize pack includes a 1,000 watt UNO magnetic ballast and a matching UNO socket and hood. UNO magnetic ballasts are switchable to run either metal halide or high pressure sodium lamps, plus they are super quiet and run cool. The UNO hood is airtight with a sealed tempered glass lens. Visit ncwgs.com

draw closes on June 15, 2012. For complete contest rules, go to maximumyield.com/winbig Prizes may not be exactly as shown.

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special nutrients issue We know you’re nuts about nutes because it is the topic you most frequently request we feature. It is also the number one industry topic tweeted and posted about on Facebook. you know that if you nourish your plants properly they will nourish you. With that in mind our July issue focuses on all you want and need to know about nutrients. Other featured articles include:

• • • • •

sub-irrigation gardening let there be light beneficial bugs dealing with summer heat more!

www.maximumyield.com Pick up this special Nuts about Nutes Issue at the 9th annual San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo, July 22, 2012. maximum yield USa June will be available next month for free at select indoor gardening retail stores across the country and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available at maximumyield.com/subscriptions

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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Family owned and operated, we open early and stay open late so that someone is always available to help our local gardeners with their growing needs. We are proud to be Lakewoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only one stop hydro shop.

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

183

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

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

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Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

ALABAMA Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Rd., 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 Hwy., Unit 114, Anchorage, AK 99515 907-339-9997 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733 Ground Control Landscape ServicesHydroponic & Garden Supplies 1067 Ocean Dr., Homer, AK 99603 907-235-1521 Northern Lights Greenhouse & Garden Supply Suite 105-9737 Mud Bay Rd., Ketchikan, AK 9901 907-225-GROW (4769) Alaska Jack’s Hydroponics and Garden Supply 1150 S. Colony Way, Ste.9, Palmer, AK 99645 907-746-4774 Anuway Hydroponics Suite #1 2711 W Walnut, Rogers, AK 72756 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 Casa Grande Hydroponics 205 N. Florence St., Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-836-4606 Sea of Green Flagstaff

204-C E. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-SOGF (7643) The Hydro Closet 5826 West Olive Ave. #106, Glendale, AZ 85302 02-361-2049 ____________________________

Growtown Horticulture Supply 1945 E. Indian School RD. Phoenix AZ 85016 602-277-0121 ____________________________ Homegrown Hydroponics 2525 West Glendale Ave Phoenix AZ 85051 602-368-4005 Sea of Green West 2340 W. Bell Rd., Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 602-504-8842 Show Low Hydroponics 1400 E. Deuce of Clubs #2 Show Low, AZ 85901 928-537-4606 ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane, Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137

Homegrown Hydroponics 601 East Broadway Rd., Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Sea of Green Hydroponics 1301 E. University Dr., Tempe AZ, 85281 800-266-4136 ____________________________

Gonzo Grow 10297 W Van Buren St., Suite 8 Tolleson, AZ 85353 623-780-GROW (4769) ____________________________ Natural Pools & Gardens 2143 North Country, Suite C, Tucson, AZ 85716 520-323-2627 Sea of Green Hydroponics 402 North 4th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705 520-622-6344 ____________________________

Tucson Hydroponics & Organics 4235 W. Ina Rd., Ste. 131 Tucson, AZ 85741 520-395-2052 ____________________________ ARKANSAS Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Hwy., 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Rd., Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955 Growfresh Organics & More 2900 Zero St., Ste 106, Fort Smith, AR 72901 479-648-8885 Fermentables 3915 Crutcher St., N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261 Anuway Hydroponics 2711 W. Walnut St., Rogers, Arkansas 72756 479-631-0099 CALIFORNIA Greenleaf Hydroponics 1839 W Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801 714-254-0005 Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Dr., Suite L, Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Rd., #7, Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090 American Hydroponics 286 South G St., Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Humboldt Hydroponics 601 I St., 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 ____________________________

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

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

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

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

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

Carmichael, CA 95608 916-515-9130 NorCal Creations PO Box 28, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 Garden Connection, The 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 Dr., 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 Ave., 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 Rd., Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Ave., Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth St., #211, Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 The Hydro Spot 21785 Temescal Cyn Rd., Corona, CA 92883

A+ Hydroponics & Organics 1604 Babcock St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949-642-7776 The Hydro Source 671 E. Edna Place Covina, CA 91723 877 HYDRO 82; 626-915-3128 Let it Grow 1228 2nd St., Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-9086 ____________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1070 Highway 101, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-1200 ____________________________ Seaside Hydrogarden 1070 Hwy., 101 North, Crescent City, CA 95531; 707-465-3520 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 St., Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774 Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Dr., Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710 Harvest Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way Suite B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 Victory Garden Supply 1900 N Lincoln St., #100 Dixon, CA 95620 707 678 5800 ____________________________

The Lucky Garden Dublin Hydroponics 7071 Village Pkwy., Dublin, Ca 94568 925-828-GROW (4769) ____________________________ Grow A Lot Hydroponics, San Diego 1591 N. Cuyamaca St., El Cajon, CA 93612 619-749-6777 Indoor Garden Solution Inc. 12424 Exline St., El Monte CA 91732, 626-453-0443 Go Green Hydroponics 15721 Ventura Boulevard, Encino, CA 91436 818-990-1198 ____________________________

A Fertile World (Eureka) 6th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-0200 ____________________________ Bayside Garden Supply 4061 Highway 101 Ste 6 Eureka, CA 95503 707-826-7435 Humboldt Hydroponics 1302 Union St., Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-4304

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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Northcoast Horticulture Supply 60 West 4th St., Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 ____________________________ Constantly Growing 4343 Hazel Ave., Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043 Fallbrook Hydro 208 E Mission Rd., Ste B Fallbrook CA 92028 760-728-4769 ____________________________

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

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

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

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 357 Main St., Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-5550 ____________________________ Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41469 Albrae St., Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 Gro More Garden Supply 2686 Clovis Ave., Ste.109 Fresno CA 93722 559-348-1055 ____________________________

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

186

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

Zen Hydroponics 1801 Victory Blvd.

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

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

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

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

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Superior Hydroponic Supply 5651 Hollywood Blvd., 90028 Los Angeles,CA 323 465-grow (4769) ____________________________

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

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 310-376-0567 B & S Gardening Supplies 592 Commerce Court, Manteca, CA 95336 209-239-8648 Monterey Bay Horticulture Supply 218 Reindollar Ave., Suite 7A, Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba St., Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 ____________________________

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

Green Light Hydroponics 2615 Honolula Ave. Montrose, CA 91020 818-640-2623 ____________________________ South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - Mtn. View 569 East Evelyn Ave., Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070

Redwood Garden Supply 55 Myers Ave., Myers Flat, CA 95554 707-943-1515 ____________________________

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

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

Foothill Hydroponics 10705 Burbank Boulevard, N. Hollywood, CA 91601 818-760-0688 ____________________________ One Stop Hydroponics 12822 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606 818-980-5855 Lumatek Digital Ballasts 33 Commercial Boulevard, Suite B Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4273 Marin Hydroponics 55 Frosty Ln Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4104 Marin Hydroponics 1219 Grant Ave., Novato, CA 94945 415-897-2197 Roots Grow Supply 40091 Enterprise Dr. Oakhurst CA 93644 559-683-6622 3rd Street Hydroponics 636 3rd St., Oakland, CA 94607 510-452-5521 Medicine Man Farms 1602 53rd Ave., Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Plant-N-Grow 1602 53rd Ave., Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456

Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Hwy., Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084 Cultivate Ontario 2000 Grove Ave. #a110 Ontario, CA 91761 909-781-6142 Flairform 1751 S Pointe Ave., Ontario, CA 91761 213-596-8820 GreenCoast Ontario Unit 102-103 1920 South Rochester Ave., Ontario, CA 909-605-5777 ____________________________

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

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

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

Advanced Soil & Garden Supply 350 Oro Dam Boulevard, Oroville, CA 95965 530-533-2747 ____________________________ Igrow Hydro 2280 Veatch St., Oroville, CA 95965 530-534-4476 Orville Organic Gardens 5250 Olive Hwy Ste 1 Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9950 US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Ave.,, Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086

Pacifica Hydroponics 90 Eureka Square Pacifica, CA 94044

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650-355-5100 ____________________________ Funny Farms Hydroponics 963 Transport Way, #12 Petaluma, CA 94954 707-775-3111 ____________________________ America’s Best Hydroponics & Gardening Center 641 W. Palmdale Blvd. Unit D Palmdale, CA 93551 661-266-3906 ____________________________

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

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

Green Bros Hydroponics 14072 Osborne St., Panorama City, CA 91402 818-891-0200 ____________________________ Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona, CA 91766 909-620-7099 New Leaf Hydro 34150 123rd St., Parablossom, CA 93553 661-944-2226 Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO Better Grow Hydro Pasadena 1271 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasedena, CA 91106 626-737-6612

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

GreenLeaf Hydroponics 2212 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach, CA 90278 310-374-2585 ____________________________ Radiant Roots Gardening & Hydroponics 1394 S Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach, CA 90277 310-540-2005 Shadow Valley Aquatics 75 Kimick Way, Red Bluff, CA 96080 530-526-0479 Bear Roots Hydroponics 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, CA 96002 530-244-2215 Dazey’s Supply 3082 Redwood Dr., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002

365 Hydroponics 2062 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA 91103 626-345-9015

Humboldt Hydroponics 2010 Tunnel Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-1402

Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 3850 Ramada Dr., Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333

Redway Feed Garden and Pet Supply 290 Briceland Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-2765

Foothills Hydrogarden 3133 Penryn Rd., Penryn, CA 95663 916-270-2413

Sylvandale Gardens 1151 Evergreen Rd., Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3606

Humboldt Hydroponics 2174 Pine Str., Redding, CA 96001 530-241-7454 ____________________________ Hydro King 105 Hartnell Ave., Suite C and D, Redding, CA 96002 888-822-8941 Orsa Organix 111 Willow St., Redwood City, CA 94063 650-369-1269 ____________________________

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

Discount Hydroponics 4745 Hiers Ave., Riverside, CA 92505 877-476-9487 ____________________________

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

Calwest Hydroponics 11620 Sterling Ave., Suite A Riverside, CA 92503 800-301-9009 ____________________________ Hydro Depot 5665 Redwood Dr., #B, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-584-2384 Igrow Hydro 9000 Atkinson St., Roseville, CA 95678 916-773-4476

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

187

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Green Acres Hydroponics 1215 Striker Ave., Suite 180, Sacramento, CA 95834 916-419-4394 Greenfire Sacramento 3230 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95821 916-485-8023 Green Thumb Hydroponics 35 Quinta Court, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95823 916-689-6464 ____________________________

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

Modern Gardens 26620 Valley Center Dr. Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-513-4733 Best Coast Growers 4417 Glacier Ave. Suite C, San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Ave., San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358 Green Lady Hydroponics 4879 Newport Ave., San Diego, CA 92107 619-222-5011 Home Brews & Gardens 3176 Thorn St., San Diego, CA 92104 619-630-2739 ____________________________

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

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

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

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

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 1900 Bendixsen St. , Bldg. 1, Samoa, CA 95564 800-683-1114 (Northern CA) ____________________________ Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. Street, Suite D, San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919 Garden S hed, The 1136 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 650-508-8600 Pure Food Gardening/ Microclone 830 H Bransten Rd. San Carlos,CA 94070-3338 Green Gopher Garden Supply 679 Redwood Ave., Suite A, Sand City, CA 93955 831-899-0203

188

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

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

704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

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

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

San Diego Hydroponics Beach Cities 4122 Napier St., San Diego, CA 92110 619-276-0657 ____________________________ Wai Kula Hydrogardens 5297 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92110 619-299-7299

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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

Hydrogarden Delight 13762 Doolittle Dr., San Leandro, CA 94577 510-903-1808 Central Coast Hydrogarden 1951 Santa Barbara St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-544-GROW Healthy Harvest Hydroponics and Organics 2958 S. Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.596.0430 ____________________________

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

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

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

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Green Logic Garden Supply 860 Piner Road, #38, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-843-3156 ____________________________ Organic Bountea 1919 Dennis Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 800-798-0765 Wyatt Supply 747 Yolanda Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-578-3747 Next Generation Hydroponics 10658 Prospect Ave., Ste.A Santee, CA 92071 619-438 2415 Santee Hydroponics 7949 Mission Gorge Rd., Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Gardening Unlimited 60 Old El Pueblo Rd., Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-457-1236 Pro Gardening Systems 765 Petaluma Ave., Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-7252 Better Choice Hydroponics 610 S. Washington St., Senora, CA 95370 209 533 2400 Go Big Hydroponics 4501 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-789-3341 Bloom Brothers Garden Supply, Inc. 3293 Industry Dr. Signal Hill, CA 90755 562 494-0060 We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 Abundant Hydroponics LLC 1611 Shop St., #1-A, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-54 HYDRO ____________________________

Advanced Garden Supply 2660 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Building C, Unit 9, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-4769 ____________________________ Farm Hydroponics, The 1950 Lake Tahoe Boulevard #3, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-3276 Valley Hydro and Organics 19230 Sonoma Hwy. Sonoma CA 95476 707-396-8734 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - East Side 4000 Cordelia Lane Soquel, CA 95073 831-475-9900 ____________________________

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

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

Sunland Hydroponics 8300 Foothill Boulevard, Sunland, CA 91040 818-352-5300 ____________________________

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

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

Home Life Hydroponics and Organics 1745 East Vista Way, Vista, CA 92084 760-643-2150 Specialty Garden Supply 7 Hangar Way Ste B Watsonville Ca 95075 831-768-0420 Evergreen Farm Feed and Garden 1131 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093 530-623-2884 California Hydro Garden 1043 South Glendora Avenue, Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874

Golden Valley Hydroponics 870 W. Onsott Rd. Ste F Yuba City, CA 95993 530-763-2151 Southern Humbolt Garden Supplies 34919 Yucaipa Boulevard, Yucaipa, CA 92399 909-797-6888; 707-459-6791 Yucca Valley Hydroponics 56825 Twentynine Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 760 369 0300 COLORADO South Park Hydroponics 42 E Buckskin Rd. Alma CO 80420 719 836 1533 ____________________________

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

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

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

The Big Tomato Indoor Garden Supply 14440 E. 6th Ave. Aurora, CO 80011 (303) 364-4769 ___________________________ Family Hydroponics-Boulder 2125 32nd Street Boulder, CO 80301 303-996-6100 Polar Ray 5171 Eldorado Springs Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 303 494 5773 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 CO 80601 303-655-1427 ___________________________

ACME Hydroponics 300 Nickel St Suite 3 Broomfield, CO 80020 720.524.7306 ___________________________ Colorado Grow 3400 Industrial Lane, Unit 10A Broomfield, CO 80020 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 ___________________________

Gardener

Indoor

The

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

C

N-BR Y-

TS

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

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

Greentrees Hydroponics Inc. 2581 Pioneer Avenue, Unit D Vista, CA 92081 760-598-7551

EN

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 ____________________________

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 ____________________________

ROC K

____________________________

ON

I F E R, C

O

R-n-B Horticultural Supply 25797 Conifer Rd #a-8 Conifer, Co 80433 303-838-5520 ____________________________

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 ____________________________

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____________________________

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 DHL Garden Supply 178 Bodo Dr.Unit B Durango, Co 81303 970-247-1090 Grow Store South, The 5050 S. Federal Boulevard, #37, Englewood, CO 80110 303-738-0202 Alpenglow Garden Supply 2712 South College Ave Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-266-8888 Bath Nursery & Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-484-5022 Gold Coast Hydroponics West 8101 S.W. Frontage Road Suite 300 Fort Collins, Colorado 80528 970-232-3220 Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769

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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 970-668-0359 ____________________________

Primo Gardens 1600 North Ave. Suite B Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-1209 970-668-0359 ____________________________ Greeley Nutrients 700 11th Street Unit 101 Greeley CO 80631 970 673 8302 Your Grow Bud 6801 South Emporia St. Suite 106 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 Tel: 303-790-2211 GroWize 3225 S. Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80227 303-986-2706 Grow Store, The 8644 W. Colfax Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80215 888-510-0350 ____________________________

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

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 7777 W. 38th Avenue, A120A, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-954-9897 ____________________________ CONNECTICUT Grow Crazy 11 Berlin Rd. Unit 2 Cromwell CT 06416 203-660-8486 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 775 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT 06118 860-568-4067 LiquidSun® CT 10C South Main Street, East Windsor, CT 06088 860-254-5757 ____________________________

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

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

Victory Hydro Gardening 1387 E. South Boulder Rd. Louisville, CO, 80027 303-664-9376 ____________________________

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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

FLORIDA ____________________________

____________________________

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

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

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

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

High Tech Garden Supply 2975 West New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-0853 ____________________________ Advanced Hydro Gardens 4960 NW 165 Street, Suite B-4, Miami, FL 33014 866-97-HYDRO Blossoms Experience, The 7207 NW 54th Street, Miami, FL 33166 866-452-4769 ____________________________

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

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

____________________________

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

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

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 455 S. Andrews Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 877-649-3567 (Southeast) ____________________________ Hydroponic Depot II 2395 S Tamiami Trail #19 Port Charlotte FL 33952 941 255 3999t EZ Grow Green 604 S.W. Bayshore Blvd.

Port St. Lucie, Fl 34983 772-807-7755 Urban Sunshine Organic & Hydroponic Gardening 2841 South Nove Rd., Ste. 5 South Daytona, FL 32119 386-236-9989 386-492-6978 Mr. Nice Guy Hydroponics 1800 NW. Federal Hwy., Stuart, FL 34994 772 934 6785 Esposito Garden Center 2743 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-386-2114 Evershine Hydroponics 1519 Capital Circle NE Unit #35 Tallahassee FL 32308 850-765-0040 Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8877 North 56th Street Tampa, FL 33617 813-514-9376 Harvest Time H ydroponics 14414 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613 813-264-7101 Hydroponics of Tampa 120 W. Bougain Villea, Tampa, FL 33612 813-333-6828 Stoney Hydro @ Schiro’s Barn n Garden Supplies 7812 Causeway Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902

____________________________

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

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

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

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

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. 1239 Fowler St. NW Atlanta, GA 30318 Flora Hydroponics Inc. 2475 Jefferson Road, Suite 600 Athens, GA 30607 866-404-0551 Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 195 Paradise Blvd.

Athens, GA 30607

____________________________

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 4558 kukui st. kapa’a, Hi. 96746 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

Brew and Grow- Crystal Lake 176 W. Terra Cotta Ave. Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-301-4950 ____________________________

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

Inc.

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

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

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 ____________________________ Aerogro 502 N Prospect suite 18 Bloomington, IL, 61704, 127 N Main St E Peoria 61611 Prairie House Garden Center 15151 South Harlem Avenue, Orland, IL 60462 708-687-3131 Brew and Grow 3224 South Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61109 815-874-5700 Brew and Grow 359 W. Irving Park Road Unit E, Roselle, IL 60172 630-894-4885

Organic Garden Center 9223 Skokie Blvd.

Skokie, IL 60077 847-675-2722 ____________________________

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

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

Worm’s Way Mail Order 7850 North State Road 37 Bloomington, IN 47404 800-274-9676 ____________________________ Frogs Lilly Pad, The 706 Citation Road, Carmel, IN 46032 317-846-4610 Hops & Harvest 4616 E. DuPont Road, Suite Q, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 260-918-3035 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 1336 East Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46202 317-780-8020 Magic Bulb Garden Center 6229 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-202-2852

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Maximum Grow Gardening 6117 E Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-359-GROW (4769) Next Generation Gardening & Hydroponics 6805 Madison Ave Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-786-0066 ____________________________

Five Point Gardens 56555 Oak Road, South Bend, IN 46619 574-287-9232 ____________________________ KANSAS 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 The Wine-N-Vine Inc. 1524 East McGalliard RD. Muncie IN. 47303 765) 282-3300 Bluegrass Organic Grow Shop 125 Quinn Dr., Nicholasville, KY 40356 859 887 0677

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 ____________________________ The Urban Garden Center 659 Warren Ave Portland, ME 04103 1-207-347-2350 Here We Grow 30 Parsons St. Presque Isle, ME 04769 207-SOY-BEAN (769-2326) Green Thumb Indoor Gardening 19 Stage Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 207-938-5909 New England Horticulture Supply 125 John Roberts Road Suite 1 South Portland, ME 04106 207-899-0510 newenglandhorticultersupply.com Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Road, Topsham, ME 04086 207-373-0990 Greenlife Garden Supply 611 US Rt. 1 York, ME 03909 207-363-0844

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

MARYLAND East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd Street, Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-9236 Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Road, Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 12130 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852 240-551-4625 Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901

MAINE The Urban Garden Center 600 Wilson St. Brewer, ME 04412 207-989-2020

MASSACHUSETTS Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Road, Unit 4, Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966

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Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

GYOstuff – Grow Your Own 2400 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140 617-945-1654 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 29 Washington Street, Route 1 Foxboro, MA 02035 800-660-6977 Here We Grow 123 Russell St. (Rt. 9) Hadley, MA 01035 413-584-FARM (3276) LiquidSun® MA 8 Lynwood Avenue, Holyoke, MA 01040 413-539-6875 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 Hydro Vision 11820 Belleville Belleville, MI 48111 (734) 325-6210 Growers Outlet 7720 Clyde Park SW Byron Center, MI 49513 616-878-4444 A Plus Hydroponics of Michigan LLC 9750 Cherry Valley Ave SE Caledonia MI 49316 (616) 891-0706 Hydro Vision 5844 N. Shelton Rd. Canton, MI 48187 (734) 335-6818 HydroMaster 36345 Groesbeck Hwy Clinton Twp, MI 48035 586-792-0277 Hydro Grow Room 15201 N. Holly Road, Unit B Holly, MI 48442 248-369-8333 ____________________________

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 611 Main st.

Norway, Michigan 49870 (906)563-1518 ____________________________

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

Cultivation Station 3 Inc. 46912 Gratiot, Chesterfield, MI 48051 586-949-7453 ___________________________ H2O Grow Supply 3364 Arent Ct Coloma, MI 49038 269-468-3890 Van Hydro 7480 N State, Davison, MI 48423 810-653-8267 The Grow Station 5670 Telegraph Rd. Dearborn, MI 48127 313-406-5147 800-797-4769 (GROW) ____________________________

Hydro Giant 14455 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI ____________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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 MI 49525, 616-361-2924 ____________________________

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

Hydroharrys- HP 24047 Dequindre Road Hazel Park, MI 48390 248-541-0099 ____________________________

Hydro Grow Room 15201 N Holly Rd Unit B Holly MI, 48430 248-369-8333 ____________________________

Flower Factory, The 2223 East Highland Road Highland, MI 48356 248-714-9292 ____________________________ Hydro Vision 2858 E Highland rd Highland, MI 48356 248-714-5556 Holland Hydroponic Outlet 587-40 East 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423 616-298-7395 ____________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 705 S., Loxley Houghton Lake, MI 48629 989-422-2800 ____________________________ Hydro Vision 1247 e Grand River Howell, MI 48843 517-552-4965 ____________________________

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

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 ____________________________

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

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

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

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

Madison Heights, MI 48071 248-439-6269 BIg Creek Hydroponics 555 Old Little Lake Road, Marquette, MI 49855 906-249-5297 Stealth Hydro 14630 King Dr. Milan, MI 48160 734 961 4333 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 Super Grow 288 W. MONTCALM PONTIAC, MI 48342 248-24SUPER (78737) Green Earth Hydroponics 8127 Portage Rd. Portage, MI 49002 269-342-4190 Hydroponics Highway Inc. 2708 14th Ave. Port Huron MI, 48060 810-982-4769 Hydro Vision 66783 Gratiot Ave. Richmond, MI 48062 (586) 430-1956 Hills Hydro 896 S. Rochester Rd. Rochester Hills, MI 48307 248-650-4937 Green Thumb Hydroponics and Organic Indoor Supply 8460 Algoma Suite G Rockford MI 49341 616 884 5500 High Tech Garden Supply 28000 Groesbeck Highway Roseville, Michigan 48066 586-435-2335 Home Grown Hydroponics 8075 Gratiot Road, Unit C, Saginaw MI 48609 989-781-1930 ____________________________

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

Bubonic Hydroponics 38540 Michigan Ave Wayne MI, 48184 734-331-2316 ___________________________

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

Indoor Eden 9281 East-M 36 Whitmore MI 48189 810-355-1465 ____________________________ Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 23529 Little Mack Avenue, St. Clair, MI 48080 586-775-9485 ____________________________

High Tech Garden Supply 7889 Telegraph Road.

Taylor, MI 48180 313-908-7554 ____________________________ Hydro Grow, The 8210 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI 48180 313-633-0641 Great Lakes Green Horticultural Supply 757 S. U.S. Highway 131 Three Rivers, MI 49093 269-278-130 Grow Store, The 90 N U.S. Highway 31 South , Traverse City, MI 49685-7923 231-421-5191 Wild Child 7740 M 72 East Traverse City, MI 49690 866-711-GROW Hydro Vision 1910 West rd Trenton, MI 48183 734-301-3745 ____________________________

Hydroharrys – ML 1138 E. West Maple Road Walled Lake, MI 48390 248-896-0099 ____________________________ Beste's Indoor/Outdoor Garden Supply 21410 Schoenherr Warren, MI 48089 586 776-1794 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 ___________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 3218 W. Houghton Avenue West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-8800 ____________________________ 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 ____________________________

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

American Garden Supply 601-6th Avenue, North, Princeton, MN 55371 763-631-0543Q ____________________________ Still-H2O Inc. 14375 North 60th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-2822 Eco Garden Supply 800 Transfer Door 25 in rear St. Paul, MN 55114 651-647-1896 MISSISSIPPI Indoor Garden Shop LLC 1310 Bienville Boulevard, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228-875-3725 ____________________________

Sunrise Garden Center 5173 W. 4th St., Hattiesburg, MS 39402 601-264-9300 ____________________________ MISSOURI Versaponics Hydro Supply 879 S Kings Hwy Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 573 450 5401 ____________________________

HYDROGARDENS Heartland Hydrogardens 705 Vandiver Drive, Suite G Columbia, MO 65202 573-474-4769 ____________________________

Green Circle Hydroponics 12 East Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-421-1840 ____________________________ 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

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

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

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

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

NEw JERSEY Garden State Hydroponics 511 Avenel Street, Avenel, NJ 07001 888-300-8711 Bergen County Hydroponics 70 Essex Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-342-2001 ____________________________

greentouch2 HYDROPONICS

Green Thumb O rganics 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 ____________________________

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

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Paradigm Gardens 8949 J Street, Suite 5, Omaha, NE 68127 402-339-4949 ____________________________ NEVADA 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 Box 34869 Reno, Nevada 89533 The Hydro Store 121 Woodland Ave #160 Reno NV 89523 775 787 2760 NEw HAMPSHIRE Natural Roots Hydroponics 24 Crown St. Nashua, NH 603-204-5528

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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

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

All Seasons Gardening 1228 Parkway, Suite E Sante Fe, NM 87507 505-438-GROW ____________________________ Santa Fe Hydroponics 821 W. San Mateo Road, Suite 4, Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-467-8454 NEw YORK Organica: Garden Supply & Hydroponics 296 Delaware Ave., Albany, NY 12209 518-618-7666 The Grow Room 32-32 49th Street Astoria, NY 11103 718-218-GROW (4769) Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 19 Front Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-2005; 800-850-4769 The Grape Vine 4020 Hempstead Turnpike Bethpage,NY,11714 516-731-1100 Bronx Hydro & Garden 39 Bruckner Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10454 718-993-3787

Bklyn Hydro & Garden 316 McGuiness Blvd Brooklyn NY 11222 718-383-0095 Brooklyn Farms 51Hicks Street St. Brooklyn, NY 11231 347-725-3491 Indoor Outdoor Gardener 8223 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-836-2402 Hydroponics of Buffalo 1497 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216 716-838-3545 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 340 West at 59, Central Nyack, NY 10960 California Hydroponics 27 Corporate Circle, East Syracuse, NY 13057 315-432-9387 Upstate Hydroponics 2026 Lake Rd unit B Elmira, NY 14903 607-483-9199 ____________________________

FutureGarden Inc. 59 Central Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-420-0884 ____________________________ East Coast Hydroponics 14649 Horace Harding Exp, Flushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880 Healthy Harvest Organics and Hydro 163 Broadway, Fort Edwart, NY 12828 518-480-4698 Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 10 Saratoga Ave S. Glen Falls, NY 12803 518-798-820 Greentree Nursery 308 Elmira Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-3666 Mike’s Nursery and Grower Supplies 199 E. Fairmount Ave, Lakewood, NY 14750 716-763-1612 Crossroads Hydroponics & Organics 181 S. Plank Rd. Newburgh, NY 12550 845-561-GROW 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 4575 Commercial Drive New Hartford, NY 13413 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 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 55 Shiloh Road #6 Asheville, NC 28803 1 (828) 277-3488 Fifth Season Gardening Company 21 B Westside Dr. Asheville NC 28806 828-225-5007 Fifth Season Gardening Company 45 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801 828-253-4112 Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 South Greensboro Street, Carrboro, NC 27510 919-932-7600 ___________________________

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

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

New Age Gardens 2236A US Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-299-9989 ____________________________

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 ___________________________

CincyPonics 3314 Harrison Ave. Cincinnati, Ohio 45211 513-661-3886 ___________________________ Dumont Seed Co. 619 30th ST. N.W. Canton, ohio 44709 330-492-0204 Dayton Hydroponics 4920 Provident Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45246 513-942-7111 Eastside Hydroponics 834 Ohio Pike #318 Cincinnati, Ohio 45245 513-528-4769 Eastside Hydroponics 550 Ohio Pike #136 Cincinnati, OH 45255 513-528-GROW Kissed by the Sun Hydroponic 10740 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 513-769-0159 Cleveland Garden Center Inc. 727 East 185th Street, Cleveland, OH 44119 216-481-7868 Grow Wizard, The 5700 Denison Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102 216-961-2500 Herb-N-Garden Center 14901 Puritas Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44135 216-252-2001 Garden Indoors of Ohio 4720 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 800-833-6868 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 ____________________________

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

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 USA Hydrogarden 7450 Industrial Pkwy, Ste. A Lorain, Ohio 44053 440-282-4880 The Grow Shop 165 Davids St. Marion OH 43302 740-223-7467 ___________________________

Urban Gardens 671 E. Center Street Marion, OH 43302 740-375-2800 ____________________________ Top Garden Products 8600 East Avenue Suite C. Mentor, OH 44060 440-290-8773 Green Garden Indoor Garden Center 1664 North Main St. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-494-1234 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 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

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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

Aqua Serene 2836 W. 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97402 541-302-9073 ____________________________

Aurora Innovations PO Box 22041, Eugene, OR 97402 866-376-8578 ____________________________ SunInside Gardening Co. 665 Conger, Unit F, Eugene, OR 97402 541-686-9966 Advanced Indoor Gardens 17831 se 82nd drive Gladstone, OR 97027 503 305 6341 Northern Light and Garden Grants Pass 1203 Rogue River Highway, Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-1700 Paradise Supply LLC 560 NE. “F” Street, Unit C, Grand Pass, OR 97526 541-955-7293 Vital Organix 932-B SE “M” Street Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-226-9283 ____________________________

Oregon Rainforest Co. 19949 E. Burnside Street, Gresham, OR 97233503-465-9909 ____________________________ Healthy Harvest 1635 SE Tualatin Valley Hwy., Hillsboro, OR 97123 503-640-0995 ____________________________

In & Out Gardens 93484 Hwy 99 South Junctin City OR 97448 541-234-2342 ____________________________ Basin Indoor Gardening 417 N. Spring St. Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-273-2023 Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 1845 S W Hwy. 101 Ste. 3 Lincoln OR 97367 USA 541 994 7070 H2organic LCC 620 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503-434-6107 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

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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 541-265-8252 ____________________________

Garden Supplies

Gorilla Garden Supply 2011 Union Ave, North Bend, OR 97459 541-756-5005 ____________________________ Green Garden Indoor Garden Center 1664 North Main St. N. Canton, OH 44720 330-494-1234 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 BWGS-OR 18201 NE Portal Way, Ste. 104 Portland, OR 97230 888-316-1306 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

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Island Flowers & Indoor Garden Center 909 N. Tomahawk Island Drive, Suite 103, Portland, OR 97217 503-546-3185 Lights Distributing 9843 SW 55th Avenue, Portland, OR 97219 Rain or Shine 13126 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230 503-255-1981 Roots Garden Supply 5426 North Gay Avenue, Portland, OR 97217 503-285-4768 Urban Flora 2865 South East, Portland, OR 97214 503-236-3344 BIGS Warehouse 2606 SW 4th Street, Unit B Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-8886 Indoor Garden Supply 536 SW 6th Street (rear alley), Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-7750 DC Hydroponics & Organics 7275 Green Siding Rd. Roseburg, OR 97471 541-679-3700 Roseburg Hydroponics 853 SE Stephens Street, Roseburg, OR 97470 541-229-1420 Indoor Garden Center 1697 SE 25th Street, Salem, OR 97302 503-566-7888 Northern Light and Garden Salem 1915 Lancester Drive, Salem, OR 97305 503-364-4769 Cascade Horticulture 39570 Pioneer Boulevard, Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-8242 Moonshine Park Farm 135 South East 62nd, Unit F South Beach, OR 97366 541-444-2298 J-N-B Hydro 2 Go 155 West Central Avenue, Sutherlin, OR 97479 541-459-9211 Samurai Greenhouse Supply 32067 Old Hwy. 34 Tanget, OR 97389 541-928-3431 Grow America Garden Supply LLC 11511 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, OR 97223 503-841-6868 Pharmer Hydroponics 11135 SW Industrial Way Bldg 10-4 Tualatin, OR 97062 503-486-5751 PENNSYLVANIA Pocono Hydroponic Solutions 25 Route 611 Bartonsville, PA 18321 570-730-4544 Green Solutions Hydroponics 1700 Orange Street Berwick, PA 18603 570-752-1530 Garden Indoors of Pennsylvania 208 Route 13, Bristol, PA 19007 800-227-4567 422 GROW 1775 North Main Street Extension Butler, PA 16001-1327 724-561-3777

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High Tech Garden Supply 20232 Route 19, Unit 6, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-473-1113 ___________________________ New Moon Indoor Garden Supply 20550 Route 19 Perry Highway, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-591-8086 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 830 Route 119, Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-1118 Buds to Blooms Garden and Supply Co., LLC 509 Orchard Avenue Kennett Square, PA 19348 484-860-8056 ____________________________

The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 ____________________________ Flairform PO 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 215-395-6353 ____________________________

RH Distribution PO 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 888-545-8112 ____________________________ Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A East 28th Div Hwy Lititz Pa 17543 717-626-7007 Hydro Ponics of Harrisburg 310 South 10th Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043 877-684-3808 Always Green Garden Supply 4400 Old William Penn Hwy Ste. 106 Monroeville PA 15146 412-646-1243 New Stanton Hydro 150 Post Ave. New Stanton, PA. 15672 724-635-0297 The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-9676 Esbenshades Greenhouses 546A East 28th Div Hwy Lititz Pa 17543 717-626-7007 Full 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 Northeast Hydroponics & Homebrewing 221 Scranton Carbondale Hwy. Scranton PA 18508 570-209-7924 Full Time Garden Supply 1011 Ritner Highway Shippensburg PA.17257 717-477-0350 www.fulltimegardensupply.com

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 9 North Main St. Washington, PA 15301 724-222-0200 Western Pennsylvania Innovative Gardening 1177 Pittsburgh Road, Suite 103 Valencia, PA 16059 724-903-0800 Organic Garden Center 800 Washington Blvd.

Williamsport, PA 17701 570-322-3120 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 450 Grim Lane, York,PA 17406 877-779-7111(Northeast) ____________________________ PA Hydroponics & Home Gardening Supply 20 Quaker Church Road, York Springs, PA 17372 717-528-4175 RHODE ISLAND Oakworld Garden Center 39 West Street, Barrington, RI 02806 401-245-5705 Solar Seed Hydroponics, Inc. 2406 Putman Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814 401-710-9010 Organically Grown 768 Atwood Ave Cranston, RI 02920 401-944-0549 Hydro-Earth 1243 Mineral Springs Avenue, North Providence, RI 02904 401-305-5520 The Organic Grow Hut 375 Putnam Pike- Ste 13 Smithfield, RI 02828 401-349-4141 South County Hydroponics 51 Old Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879 401-783-1733 Mother Nature Hydroponics 1268 Post Rd. Warwick RI 02888 401-780-0600 LiquidSun® RI 1179 Central Avenue, Pawtucket, MA 02861 401-722-2724 ____________________________

Good To Grow 34 Nooseneck Hill Road, West Greenwich, RI 02817 401-392-3100 ____________________________ Growin’ Crazy 93 Kingston Road Wyoming, Rhode Island 02898 401-284-0810 SOUTH CAROLINA GreenSpirit Hydrogarden 1864 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-1GRO 247 Garden Supply 535 D Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229 803-788-4445 ____________________________

All Good Hydroponics & Gardening 6729 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223 803-708-4819 ____________________________

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All Season Hydroponics 6729 Two North Road, 10B Columbia, SC 29223 803-708-4819 ____________________________ The Urban Garden Hydroponics 9557 Two Notch Rd. Ste. E Columbia, SC 29223 803-788-9313 ____________________________

All Season Hydroponics 1350 Hwy. 501 Business, Store 3&4 Conway, SC 29526 843-347-9266 ____________________________ Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830 ____________________________

Greenspirit Hydrogardens 3600 Unite 1 Hwy.17 S. North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 843-361-7777 ____________________________ SOUTH DAKOTA

Green Earth Products Inc. 5700 Highway 79 S.,Unit 1, Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-1307 ____________________________ TENNESSEE Innovative Hydroponic Supply Inc. 3286 North Park Blvd. Unit G Alcoa TN 37701 865 984 0280 Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643 Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Drive, Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Highway, Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318 Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Road, Suite 104, Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005 ____________________________ All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188

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Worm’s Way Tennessee 901 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37072 800-397-4153 ____________________________ TEXAS 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 Third Coast Horticulture Supplies 7010 Burnet Rd., Ste.A Austin, TX 78757 512 459 4353 Happy Harvest Hydroponics & Organic 1500 C rescent Drive, Suite 202 Carrollton, TX 75006 972-466-1300 GroGreen Hydroponics 4015 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-370-9984 Jolly Green Hydroponics (Greenhouse Horticultural Supplies) 13628 Neutron Road, Dallas, TX 75244 866-WE-JOLLY; 469-341-5555 Lone Star Hydroponics and Organics 1302 Motor Circle, Dallas, TX 75207 214-634-9376 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Dallas) 3400 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-744-4769 ____________________________ Organic Garden & Feed 3801 N Interstate Hwy 35,Suite126, Denton Texas 76207 940-381-9890 ____________________________ Earth Organics 1360 Lee Trevino Drive,Suite 105 El Paso, TX 79936 915-591-9500 Airline Hydroponics P.O. Box 980904, Trader’s Village #363, Houston, TX 77098 713-942-0484 Botani Garden 15120 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX 77083 281-575-1999 Houston Discount Hydroponics 9384 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77063 713-464-9406 Hydroponic Nation 9001 Frey Road Houston TX 77034 713-943-1115 In-N-Out Garden Supply 11011 S Wilcrest Drive Ste K Houston, TX 77099 281-568-5265

Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Houston) 7730 A Park Place Boulevard, Houston, TX 77087 713-641-4769 Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply 6125 West Sam Houston Parkway, North Suite 206 Houston, TX 77041 713-856-8425 Texas Growers Supply 5990 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E. #602, Humble, TX 77396 281-441-3739 Field of Dreams Indoor Growing Supplies 5302 Slide Road Unit B,Lubbock, TX 79414 806-793-2901 Hydro Mart 3841 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-6114 ____________________________

Sol Organics & Hydroponics 1634 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210-366-9082 ____________________________ Innergrow Hydroponics 24451 Interstate Highway 20, Wills Point, TX 75169 866-475-4769 UTAH Wasatch Hydroponics 4050 South Howick, Suite 11E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107 801-716-4133 __________________________

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 Ga rdening P.O. Box 235, Route 15, Underhill, VT 5489 800-564-9376 VIRGINIA Fifth Season Gardening Company 900 Preston Ave. Charlottesville VA 22903 434-293-2332 Clean & Green Technologies 196 Corning Drive, Christiansburg, VA 24073 866-694-1628 I Love Hydroponics 612 N. Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Lucky Roots 612 North Sheppard St. Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020 Blue Ridge Hydroponics & Home Brewing Company The Williamson Road Plaza, 5327 D Williamson Road Roanoke, VA 24012 540-265-2483

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 ___________________________

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 ___________________________

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 ___________________________

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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 ____________________________ Indoor Garden Supply LLC 1250 Atlantic Ave, Woodland, WA 98674 360-841-8055 wISCONSIN ____________________________

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 Depot 1401 S. 324th Street, Federal Way, WA 98003 253-874-1112 ___________________________

North West Hydro Supply 1355Pacific Pl Unit 117 Ferndale WA 98248-7824 360-778-3254 ___________________________

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 ____________________________

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

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 ___________________________

Waterworks Hydroponics 5039 S. Washington Tacoma, WA 98409 253-301-4343 waterworkshydro@hotmail.com ___________________________ Garden City Hydroponics 14103 Pacific Ave., S. Tacoma WA 98444 253-301-3985 ___________________________

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 ___________________________

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 H2oGrow 1150 Madison rd Beloit WI 53511 608-289-1852 Brew and Grow 285 N. Janacek Road, Brookfield, WI 53045 262-789-0555 Garden Supply Guys 752 Memorial Drive - Suite A Green Bay, WI 54303 920-857-9493 Hydro Your Own 8501-75th Street, Unit C Kenosha, WI 53142 262 697 6112 Brew and Grow 3317 Agriculture Drive, Madison, WI 53716 608-226-8910 ____________________________

Paradigm Gardens 4501 Helgesen Drive, Madison, WI 53718 608-241-3800 ____________________________ Brew and Grow 2246 Bluemound Road Ste. B Waukesha, WI 53186 262-717-0666 PUERTO RICO ____________________________

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

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

197

DO YOU KNOW?

1.

Radically incorrect pH can cause physical damage to plants due to the caustic properties of acids and bases, and less severe imbalances have an impact on the solubility of plant nutrients.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Chloramine is a chlorine molecule bonded with an ammonia molecule.

This chemical is used in place of chlorine because it lasts longer in the water and won’t bubble out and evaporate like chlorine will.

The longer it takes contaminants to reach internal reference cells the longer it delays the pH reference electrode damage that ruins the pH electrode, making the double-junction pH reference electrode and the entire pH electrode system last much longer than single-junction pH electrode systems.

Pure or distilled water should be microwaved with care because, if it is heated in a clean smooth container, it is possible for the water to become ‘superheated,’ which means that the temperature of the water in its liquid state is actually above the normal boiling temperature. most beneficial microorganisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere will only survive, thrive and reproduce in an oxygen-rich environment.

7.

8.

6.

The heat capacity of water is quadruple that of air, so it takes four times as much heat to increase the temperature of water than it does to increase the temperature of air.

Root growth will increase dramatically if you can maintain the root zone temperature at 75 to 80°F and keep the air temperature around six to eight degrees cooler.

although some wells are ‘shocked’ with chlorine, generally well-water users don’t have to worry as much about chlorine or chloramines—but calcium and magnesium are often found in much higher levels in well water.

The higher the altitude, the lower the boiling point of water and the longer food must be boiled to heat to a given temperature.

10.

Plants in hydroponic systems like their root zones a bit cooler than their soil counterparts in pots, preferring that the nutrient solution in the reservoir stay in the 60 to 70°F range—water in this range can hold much more oxygen than water above 75°F.

11.

On the WvU Extension Service website (www.ext.wvu.edu) you’ll find suggestions on containers, watering, media and lighting, and a list of recommended vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers that do well in container gardening applications.

12.

198

9.

Generally speaking, one tonne of cooling capacity is equal to 12,000 BTUs.

Maximum Yield USA | June 2012

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