Maximum Yield USA May 2012 by Maximum Yield

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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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

CONTENTS May 2012

FEATURES 118

Greenhouses 101—Styles and Materials by Frank Rauscher

Build it Right—Determining Greenhouse Design by Climate by Dr. Lynette Morgan

Grow Tents—21st Century Greenhouses by Casey Jones Fraser

The Comfort Zone—Fostering Healthy Bacteria in the Greenhouse by Chris Pianta

134

58 Maintaining Control in the Greenhouse by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr.

100

Ventilation Systems for Greenhouses and Indoor Gardens by Eric Hopper

110 DEPARTMENTS 10

From the Editor

170

Green Thumb Gardening

Letters to the Editor

172

10 Facts On...

Plug plants—Testing and Monitoring Their Nutritional Status

MaximumYield.com

174

You Tell Us

Ask the Experts

176

Talking Shop

by Guy Sela

MAX Facts

182

Max Mart

124

What’s Next?

Product Spotlight

184

Coming up in June

136

Trade Secrets With Jeremy Marsh From H2Organic Farms

134

Tips and Tricks

185

Distributors

150

Growing for Health

198

Do You Know?

152

Beginner’s Corner

110

Cloches to Greenhouses

118

by Grubbycup

by Matt Geschke

by Lee McCall

154

The Original ‘Greenhouse Effect:’ How Greenhouses Can Change the Way You Grow by Matt LeBannister

162

Why Grow in a Greenhouse? by Shane Hutto

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

FROM THE EDITOR | JESSICa RayMOND Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is where big yields are at—glasshouses, sawtooths, cloches, hothouses, cold frames, grow tents, and of course, greenhouses are all different forms of CEA.The benefits of growing CEA style are many, but not without challenges.This special Greenhouse Issue expounds those benefits and helps you navigate those challenges. Consider the history of greenhouses: less than seven decades ago only the rich could afford them.Today, greenhouses are much more versatile with countless styles, materials, sizes and structures available that suit a variety of purposes (and budgets). The following 200 pages touch on fostering healthy bacteria in greenhouses, testing and monitoring nutritional status, reasons to grow in a greenhouse, ventilation, building it right, grow tents and more.We also scooped secrets from a pro greenhouse grower from Colorado who has made a living with his green thumbs.

If that’s not enough for you, we’ve also featured 24 new products that can be used in greenhouses and beyond, the latest hydroponic news, tips and trivia from the US and abroad, expert answers to your pressing questions, and tons of other fun, short reads to keep you satisfied all month long. Much research and planning is involved in setting up and maintaining a greenhouse or controlled environJessica Raymond, editor editor@maximumyield.com ment structure but many rewards can be reaped if done correctly. Are you ready to take control?

Countdown to Michigan

Celebrate with us on the second stop of our ‘Grow Like a Pro’ Tour at our Great Lakes Expo in Novi, Michigan, June 3, 2012. Visit indoorgardenexpo.com or flip to page 99 for full details.

CONTRIBUTORS Casey Jones Fraser owns Garden

Eric Hopper has over 10 years of

Lee McCall is an alumnus of Johnson &

Chris Pianta AgroSci CEO, has over

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50

25 years of experience in the lawn and garden market. He managed two successful startups and developed programs for Franks Nursery, FTD, Profile Soil Products, Martha Stewart, Agway and GROWELL. Chris is a holder of two United States patents. He earned his B.S. in Environmental and Professional Horticulture from UConn.

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

Shane Hutto is a technical advisor at Grodan Inc. He earned a bachelor’s degree in horticulture at Oklahoma State University and received a research assistantship for his master’s degree. During his graduate studies he researched production and extraction of surface waxes on horticultural commodities. His passion for growing is complimented by his experience in many types of controlled environment operations and design.

Frank Rauscher is a certified 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.

Guy Sela Guy Sela is an agronomist

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.

Matt Geschke has a B.S. in biology

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.

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

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.

Wales University. His extensive culinary background helped him gain experience in and knowledge of fine dining and food production, which developed into a career in the hydroponics and year-round gardening industry. Lee and his business partner use their Denver-based businesses to educate the public on sustainable gardening and high quality produce. 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. 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. from Baldwin Wallace College. He also completed an environmental geology degree from the University of Akron and received his M.S. in 2002. Matt is an adjunct professor at Kent State University.

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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR via Facebook

DiD You KnoW?

Most people think plants only take in CO2 and give off oxygen, but the truth is most plants actually respire and give off CO2 as well, during the night. So that's why my CO2 level is slightly elevated before lights come on, I was thinking my regulator had a leaky o-ring. Thanks for the info. Makes sense. James Whitlock

To be green you have to think ahead and manage your resources. Only we can change the status-quo, and it needs to be changed. If everyone grew their own food, composted or at least saved their scraps for other composters, and was educated on the basics of these principals, they would most likely participate in the green movement and care more about the environment. Thank you for reading and listening. I love your magazine; I've learned a lot from various issues and appreciate the great information and dedication to your readers. Keep up the good work. Thanks Kristofer Arrigo Lakeview, NY

Women Doing Business Well

I am writing to tell you that I love your magazine. I also want to give BIGS (Bend’s Indoor Garden Station) in Bend, Oregon major kudos. I went into BIGS and the lady owner was fantastic. Their store is amazing and should be showcased. Every time I go in, the owners are so helpful and dedicated. Kudos to BIGS! I think they should get some credit. Thanks for your time Lindsey

Write in anD Win

What does growing green mean to you? To me, growing green means being as eco-friendly as possible from composting your scraps and making your own compost, fertilizing your plants and growing organically. Keeping the environment in a happy equilibrium at all times is most important. I’m a big fan of and activist in the green movement. I live in New York, so I can only grow my crops seasonally, but I compost all my scraps so I can feed my fruits and vegetables grade-A free fertilizer. I also tell anyone that grows how important these issues are, and also teach people how to be as green as they can.

suBscriBe to Win

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/newsletter.php 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 E-mail: editor@maximumyield.com Twitter: twitter.com/max_yield Facebook: facebook.com/MaximumYield

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

COMING UP ON THE WEB Upcoming EvEnts

maximUm YiEld’s ‘grow likE a pro’ indoor gardEning Expo toUr Hits micHigan Celebrate with us on the second stop of our ‘Grow Like a Pro’ Tour at our Great Lakes Expo in Novi, Michigan, June 3, 2012. The vibrant and rapidly growing East Coast indoor gardening industry will be in for a treat as exhibitors from around the globe showcase the newest and most innovative products at the Suburban Collection Showplace. Stay tuned to indoorgardenexpo.com for event details and updates.

FEatUrEd prodUcts Greenhouse-approved gadgets are the focus this month. Check out the AQUAvalve, Root Royale Hydro Clay Pebbles, the Original and Aero Brick and much more.

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

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. 14

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

VOLUME 13 – NUMBER 2 May 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 EDITOR - Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES 250.729.2677 DIRECTOR OF SALES - Raymond Henderson raymond@maximumyield.com Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Hayley Jesson - hayley@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com Jennifer Duong - jennifer@maximumyield.com Alice Joe - alice@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

My tomato leaves seem to be so heavy. They just droop down. Is this normal? If not, what could it be? Jason Miller

Matt LeBannister

There are a couple reasons this might be happening. The most likely culprit is heat. If plants are too close to light sources they will become droopy. The same can be said for plants that are too cold. The ideal temperature range for most crops is 65 to 85Â°F. It could also be a result of overwatering. If plant roots are starved of oxygen the leaves will begin to droop and wilt. Allow the growing medium to dry out before watering. A more serious problem could be bacterial wilt, fusarium wilt or verticillium wiltâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;these are fungal and bacterial diseases. The symptoms of each include wilting leaves and stems. There are other symptoms involved such as yellowing leaves. There is no cure for these diseases. One can only remove the infected plants. I hope this helps clear things up. Sincerely, Matt LeBannister

I am running just LEDs for both stages of growth. Is this okay or should I take out one of my 400 watt LED lights and add a 400 watt hps/mh for my flowering plants? Kolton Davis

Eric Hopper

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

LED lighting can work great for both stages of growth especially when using higher wattage LED fixtures (like the 400 watt units you are using). LEDs produce more usable light energy for plants per watt of electricity consumed. Because the HPS/MH is equal to the LED unit in terms of wattage I would recommend sticking with the LEDs. I do recommend keeping the LED light fixture as close to the plant canopy as you can without causing stress (usually 10 to 18 inches above the plants) to ensure sufficient light penetration. Sincerely, Eric Hopper

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

CirCadian rhythmS govern plant defenSeS A study by Rice University biologists has shown that some plants have developed defenses against insects based on the time of day the insects are most likely to be feeding. They anticipate attacks by certain kinds of insects and prepare sophisticated chemical defenses against them. When insects were ‘tricked’ into feeding during the plants’ nighttime cycles, however, the plants showed little or no resistance to the insects they were normally able to control successfully with chemical defenses. “Understanding how plants regulate [defensive] hormones could be important for understanding why some pests are more damaging than others, and it could help suggest new strategies for insect resistance,” said Wassim Chehab, a Rice faculty fellow in biochemistry and cell biology. (Source: sciencedaily.com)

MAXFACTS HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa SeedS + Sand = Clean Water Researchers from Pennsylvania State University have developed a new method for water purification—using just sand and tree seeds—that could be the answer to inexpensive and sustainable drinking water. The authors of the study found that by using an extract from Moringa tree seeds to bind to sediment and kill microbes in conjunction with negatively charged sand, they were able to produce potable and storable water without expensive or complicated technology. Over one billion people worldwide currently lack regular access to clean drinking water. (Source: treehugger.com)

Shopping Cart raCe BenefitS Community garden Teams of shopping cart racers, 162 to be exact, competed in the Chiditarod VII in a Chicago neighborhood recently to raise money for an organic community garden. Volunteers and racers collected 25,000 pounds of food for the Greater Chicago Food Depository and $35,000 in donations for the organic garden—that will also serve as a job training program in Chicago's Cottage Grove Heights neighborhood. The Chitidarod race is partnered with a non-profit group that uses organic agriculture to assist community development and provides job training skills to the homeless or previously incarcerated. (Source: treehugger.com) 22

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

deadly outBreak traCed to Colorado farm A congressional report has found that a deadly listeria outbreak that killed 30 people last year was probably the result of new processing equipment and a lack of chlorine in the washing water at one Colorado cantaloupe farm. The report said 146 people in 28 states were affected by the tainted produce. The FDA does not currently enforce any specific regulations with regard to cantaloupe production and processing, offering farmers only suggested guidelines to follow. The report preceded a conference at the University of California, Davis, on the listeria outbreak and ways to reduce the food safety risks now associated with cantaloupe. (Source: freshplaza.com)

Banned SuBStanCe no Big deal The FDA has ruled that trace amounts of a banned substance found in some shipments of orange juice originating in Brazil are not harmful and that no action will be taken. FDA officials say that small amounts of the fungicide—carbendazim—do not pose a health risk to consumers and the FDA does not plan on taking any drastic measures to rid stores of the juice. Although not currently allowed for use on oranges in the United States, carbendazim is federally approved for use on apricots, bananas, cherries and grapes. (Source: southwestfarmpress.com)

high on life A recent article in The Atlantic magazine has suggested that the rich, earthy smell of compost might be so appealing to gardeners because the compost contains microorganisms that boost moods. The microorganisms—M. vaccae—have been shown to boost levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the systems of both humans and mice and apparently work in the same way as antidepressant pills. (Source: theatlantic.com)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

‘purple WonderS’ almoSt ready for market A scientist at Cornell University has developed a new commercial strawberry variety—the ‘Purple Wonder’— said to be the darkest in color ever. The new fruits start off white but develop to a deep burgundy shade all the way through the berry as they mature. The new strawberry was developed in association with Burpee’s and a plant patent will be filed on it later this year. (Source: freshplaza.com freshplaza.com)

green But loud Frito-Lay has reintroduced a compostable bag made of potato peelings for some of its Sun Chip brand products after scrapping the first effort when consumers found the bags to be too noisy. Consumers found the original compostable chip bag to be too loud when handled, and compared the sound to noise levels in a jet cockpit and the sound of lawnmowers. The new bag design muffles the sound to around 70 decibels—down from the originally deafening 95 decibels—by adding a second layer inside the bag that acts as a noise barrier. (Source: recipes.howstuffworks.com)

neW teChnology, plant StudieS key to humanity’S future The transformation of plant biology with the aid of new technology is one of the keys to solving humanity’s most pressing issues, according to a team of researchers from the Carnegie Institute. The study cited food, energy and environmental degradation as the three most important challenges facing our planet in the 21st century and noted that all three issues are plant-related. Published by Carnegie’s David Ehrhardt and Wolf Frommer in The Plant Cell, the paper calls for advances in technologies such as DNA sequencing, RNA cataloguing, mass spectroscopy, fluorescence-based microscopy and electron microscopy and their application to the study of plant life. (Source: sciencedaily.com)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

‘StaCking green’ deSign ComeS to Saigon A team of architects working in Saigon—the most densely populated city in the world—has unveiled a new house design they call ‘Stacking Green.’ The house, constructed on a plot that is a mere 12 feet wide by 60 feet deep, uses traditional Saigon courtyard house design, which allows for crossbreezes to flow throughout the space and for plants to provide shade, both of which dramatically curtail energy use. The front and rear of the dwelling are composed entirely of cantilevered concrete planters placed at slightly different heights for contrast and to accommodate the height of the plants they contain, which are watered using an integrated irrigation system. (Source: puregreenmag.com)

urBan treeS replaCed By ‘imperviouS Cover’ Up to four million trees are disappearing from urban areas in the United States each year, according to scientists from the United States Forest Service. Impervious cover—like rooftops and pavement—is rapidly replacing urban greenery in many US cities, with the greatest percentage of annual loss in tree cover occurring in New Orleans, Houston and Albuquerque. Michael T. Rains, director of the Northern Research Station, said that urban trees play a role in improving air and water quality and provide many environmental and social benefits, calling them “the hardest working trees in America.” (Source: treehugger.com)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MAX FaCTS

HyDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS aND TRIvIa

reSearCh Center to CloSe Soon

CompoSt goeS Better With Coke! A Huffington Post blog has recommended flat Coca Cola as a compost additive. The article—by blogger Chris Barnes—says that Coke’s mildly acidic nature will help break down organic matter, while its sweetness helps attract microorganisms that aid in the composting process. But it can’t be just any old generic soda—apparently the phosphoric acid contained in Coke® is one of the reasons it works so well as a compost starter. (Source: treehugger.com)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

The USDA-ARS Kika de la Garza Research Center in Weslaco, Texas—the USDA’s only subtropical agriculture research center—has fallen victim to federal budget reorganization and is expected to receive an official notice of closure soon. The center—the only facility in the continental United States that studies quarantine issues related to tropical pests and one of only four that does research on honeybees—is also known for its studies on citrus greening, boll weevils, fever tick eradication and the control and eradication of tropical fruit flies. (Source: southwestfarmpress.com)

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

yOUR GUIDE TO THIS MONTH’S

HOTTEST ITEMS ask for them at your local indoor gardening store.

dr. earth’s homegrown potting Soil now available in the Bagtainer Dr. Earth offers our HomeGrown Potting Soil in a 13 quart highly reflective Bagtainer®. This decadent, hand-crafted blend creates the perfect soil conditions to promote plant health, abundant plant growth and maximum yields. It is especially rich in bat guano, earth worm castings, Norwegian kelp meal, aloe vera, yucca extract, MicroActive™ concentrated seaweed extract, beneficial soil microbes and Mycorrhizae. This is our most advanced and potent soil. When looking to maximize crop and yield production, no other soil in America will deliver like Dr. Earth. For more information and to buy Dr. Earth products, visit an authorized retailer near you.

vineline industrial r roll from dl Wholesale The VineLine you know and love is now available in a 6.5 by 3,300 foot Industrial Roll. VineLine is durable polyethylene netting that works great for guiding and supporting all types of vining plants and flowers. This versatile product can be used in vertical or horizontal growing applications and will resist tangling. It’s reusable, which saves you time and money, and is also available in smaller quantity sizes. Ask for the Industrial VineLine Roll from an authorized DL Wholesale retailer today.

feliz dual Spectrum fluorescent grow lamp The new Feliz Dual Spectrum Fluorescent Grow Lamps are ideal for use with Sunlight Supply’s Sun System® Garden Bright fixtures. The Feliz Grow Lamp has proven itself in high humidity and has been designed specifically for use in horticulture. This lamp takes your plants from start to finish. The mixed spectrum (2700k/6500k) promotes root growth, vegetative growth and flowering. Many types of plants respond well to the mixed spectrum. Available in 125, 200, 250 or 300 watts. All Feliz Grow Lamps come with a six month warranty. All lamps are ETL listed (excluding 300 watts). Visit an authorized Sunlight Supply retailer for more information. 32

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Sunleaves ph essential digital pen Use the Sunleaves pH Essential Digital Pen for fast and accurate readings of a garden’s pH levels. The pen is durable and water resistant with a large, easy-to-read display. It has a range of zero to 14.0 pH with an accuracy of +/- two per cent, and features auto temperature compensation, auto digital calibration, a hold feature and an auto-off function that kicks in after five minutes. Included with the pen are batteries, a one ounce sachet of storage solution, one packet of pH 7.0 buffer and a translucent cap. Includes a one-year warranty. Visit your nearest Sunleaves retailer to learn more.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT introducing autopot’s aQuavalve The AQUAvalve—supplied with all AutoPot Watering Systems— controls the flow of water to your plants via gravity pressure from a tank or water butt; no power, pumps, water pressure or timers are required. Once connected to a tank the AQUAvalve opens and allows water to fill the tray to a preset level of 20 millimeters. The AQUAvalve will not refill the tray until all the water has been used. With the AQUAvalve there is no more hand watering. The AQUAvalve is a simple but very effective watering device promoting phenomenal growth and maximum yields. For more information visit your nearest hydroponic shop.

Sunleaves Super Starter inserts Sunleaves Super Starter Inserts are soft enough to keep clones and cuttings safe and secure without damaging them, and they feature a slit from the edge to the center that allows for easy placement or removal. Their round shape and standard sizes make them compatible with most hydroponic cloning systems, and they’re made of durable material that withstands multiple uses. Sunleaves Super Starter Inserts are two inches in diameter, 0.5 inches thick with a 0.25 inch inner hole diameter. Go to your nearest Sunleaves retailer to learn more.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Can-filters adds new 4” Can-lite to lineup

Can-Filters® has designed and built the Can-Lite™ four inch model for convenience and long life. One hundred per cent Australian Granulated carbon, aluminum top and bottom, integrated flange and well-made protective packaging are some of the features of the Can-Lite™ four inch filter. The Can-Lite™ has six available sizes from four to 14 inches with a CFM range of 250 to 2,200. Can-Lite™ is manufactured in a dedicated carbon filter plant in North America and is now available at hydroponic shops across the country.

advanced technology takes yields to new heights ZymeAlive from Wise Organics raises the bar for enzyme and microbial technologies. ZymeAlive is 100 per cent organic and increases yields, improves flavor, increases sugar production and supercharges the flowering process. This easy-to-use product is a powerful blend of enzymes, bacteria and important co-factors that deliver unmatched results. ZymeAlive works in all media, hydroponic and soil crop production systems. Each ZymeAlive filter bag treats up to 40 gallons of solution. It’s applied at least once a week along with your reservoir change or added to soil as a drench. More information is available at indoor gardening shops near you.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

introducing the aero Brick and original Brick The Aero Brick and the larger Original Brick make building or improving an existing hydroponic system easy. The tight snap lid fits a two inch net pot. The base holds all standard-sized grow cubes or loose media. The attached downspout releases the roots to travel naturally to water. The included wick draws water up from the reservoir. HydroBrick products control humidity and evaporation, stabilize the enclosed root zone and let the grower choose the right medium for the plant and the environment, growing bigger, better plants. Visit your favorite hydroponic shop to learn more.

introducing ata-Xl from atami ATA-XL is an ideal addition to NPK nutrients and stimulants. ATA-XL is a great blend of natural ingredients, minerals, vitamins and amino acids. This two-in-one grow and flower stimulator can be used on any type of substrate, does not contain any NPKs and gives the plant a growth spurt with strong branching during the growth phase. ATA-XL improves root set. Because ATA-XL is made from natural ingredients it contains no fibers, so the final product is free from residues and organic flavors. Atami’s stimulators and liquid nutrients are economical, sealed and guaranteed. Visit your favorite hydroponics shop for more information.

gro1 Zippered dry racks Gro1 Zipper Dry Racks in two and three feet are the newest additions to DL Wholesale’s Gro1 line of Dry Racks. These models feature zippered openings that allow you to completely close off each dry rack level. Like our other racks, these new Zippered Dry Racks feature hanging tabs on the top of each rack and they come with a black zippered carrying case for easy storage and transportation. Gro1 Dry Racks are also available with non-zippered openings and clips, allowing you to add or remove levels as needed. Visit your local gardening shop for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

introducing Superactive™ Biological Soil (and Seed) inoculant SuperActive™ Soil (and seed) Inoculant is a powerful biostimulator formulated to activate life in the soil, while also inoculating legume seeds for maximum germination and transplant success. Formulated and cultured to work fast for maximum viability for nutrient release. Micronization ensures that the inoculant tea can travel deep into the soil structure for maximum root coverage and soil penetration. SuperActive™ is rich in micronized and concentrated seaweed extract, whey protein, high fructose corn sugar and beneficial soil microbes. For more information and to buy Dr. Earth products visit an authorized retailer near you.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Crystal Burst from emerald triangle now available Emerald Triangle’s Crystal Burst is Humboldt County’s own high potency Vitamin B1 bloom enhancer. This product is 60 per cent stronger than the most popular enhancers making it one of the most concentrated bloom enhancers available on today’s market. Crystal Burst induces flowering in many flowers and herbs and works well with all of the popular nutrient lines. For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retailer near you.

the ram 10” inline fan now available The Hydrofarm RAM 10 inch inline fan can handle all your air circulation needs without making too much noise. It is housed in powder-coated metal, and features a thermally-protected AC motor, mounting bracket with noise-reducing foam cushion to increase stability, fastening ribs to secure duct mounting and it is UL approved. Total wattage on the RAM inline is 200 watts with a frequency of 60 hertz. Whether you need to clear the air or just get some air, the RAM offers optimal performance, efficiency and energy savings. For more information visit an authorized Hydrofarm retail shop near you.

root royale™ hydro Clay pebbles from dl Wholesale Root Royale™ Hydro Clay Pebbles are a reusable, environmentally-friendly grow medium. These clay pebbles have been fired in super-heated kilns causing them to expand and become extremely porous. The tiny holes and crevices inside each pebble hold and transmit extremely high amounts of air and water to your plants’ roots, helping them grow bigger and faster, and making them perfect for hydroponic systems. And since these clay pebbles are pH stabilized, they won’t release any additional minerals into your plants’ nutrient stream. Available in 13 gallon bags. Visit an authorized DL Wholesale hydroponics shop near you for more information.

par meter by Sun System® The new PAR Meter by Sun System® comes with either an integrated sensor or a remote sensor. Ideal for use inside with Sun System® grow lights, the PAR Meter helps ensure your plants are receiving the optimum amount of light for photosynthesis. Simply place the meter under the grow light at the spot you want to measure, press the button and you’re done. Simple to use and easy to read, the PAR Meter is a must-have for any grower. Comes with a one year warranty. Visit your favorite indoor gardening shop for more information about the PAR Meter.

Continued on page 42 38

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Continued from page 38

lumatek air-Cooled dual digital Ballast When gardeners upgrade to a lightweight Lumatek Air-Cooled Dual Digital Ballast, they’ll see the benefits instantly. Lumatek Digital Ballasts provide stable light and start up faster. This ETLlisted 1,000 watt dual voltage unit allows growers to power with 120 or 240 volts with one ballast, it features a staggered ignition, it can power 400, 600 or 1,000 watt lamps and it’s air-cooled. Each unit includes a 120 volt power cord. A 240 volt power cord is available separately. Air-Cooled Lumateks feature a threeyear warranty. Lumatek Digital Ballasts are available now at authorized BWGS retail shops.

ensure a perfect Brew every time With Stump tea Stump Tea is a ready-made, root enhancing, liquid compost tea. This special blend of soil biology and beneficial Mycorrhizae occurs naturally in some of the world’s most pristine forests. This synergistic mix vigorously inoculates the root zone, boosts metabolic and increases yields. Stump Tea also incorporates soil conditioners and a few other natural ingredients to make one killer tea, including humic and fulvic acids, molasses and kelp. Stump Tea is a proven, time-tested recipe that will impress even the most experienced tea connoisseur. Visit High Tech Garden Supply or an authorized retailer near you for more information.

meet the Quest plug-n-plays The Quest 100 and 195 plug-and-play dehumidifiers require no installation. With 106 pints of water removal per day capacity (at 80oF and 60 per cent relative humidity), the Quest 100 is large enough to handle most grow rooms. Both units fit flush along a wall using minimal valuable floor space. The Quest 195 removes 192 pints of water per day at 5.9 pints per kWh, and the Quest 100 removes 6.8 pints of water per kWh. Both qualify for Energy Star™ listing and are over 50 to 75 per cent more efficient respectively than standard dehumidifiers. Visit your favorite indoor gardening shop for more information.

meet the Quest portables Whether you are looking for a little extra capacity at the most critical peaks of the grow cycle, a temporary supplemental dryer or the flexibility of a product that can be easily moved, the Quest PowerDry 1,300, RDS 10 and PowerDry 4,000 Portable Dehumidifiers are the answer. The Quest PowerDry 1,300 and RDS 10 are constructed of durable dent- and scratch-resistant ROTO plastic and remove eight gallons and 10 gallons of water respectively. The Quest PowerDry 4,000 is the solution for large, high-grade growers, with over 22 gallons of capacity and a rugged, non-corrosive stainless steel construction. Visit a hydroponics shop near you for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

meet the Quest overheads The Quest Dry 70 dehumidifier is 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide, and can easily be installed overhead, on a small shelf or even placed at ground level. The optional condensate pump, and ducting and control options provide the flexibility to make even the most challenging indoor gardening application easy. The newest additions to the Quest product line are the Quest 105, 155 and 205 Dual Dehumidifiers, and like the Quest Plug-N-Play dehumidifiers, the Quest Duals require no installation. The new Duals are among the most energy-efficient large capacity dehumidifiers on the market. Visit an indoor gardening shop near you for more information.

have you heard of elektrox®? The range of Elektrox® includes a product line of energysaving lamps. Each of them is equipped with a builtin-ballast of wattages from 85 to 250 watts. Elektrox provides them in three variants for different purposes: growth, bloom and both 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 an authorized retailer near you.

new from vermicrop organics—vermiWorm The key to achieving extremely high amounts of well-rounded beneficial biology in VermiWorm is to control the organic matter that is provided to the worms as a food source. We provide a very specific proprietary diet to our worms. We have removed all manures from the worms’ diet, which eliminates the risk of manure-borne pathogens. With the correct food sources and the removal of competing pathogens, the earthworms can digest and excrete higher levels of beneficial biology to create the premium castings of VermiWorm. Visit an authorized Vermicrop Organics retailer near you for more information.

titan Controls® helios 13™, 14™, 16™ and 17™ The new Helios 13™, 14™, 16™ and 17™ 240 volt light controllers from Titan Controls® feature premium-quality Allen Bradley ballast-rated relays. The Helios 16 and 17 offer two trigger cord sets to activate the controllers via external timers. The Helios 13 and 14 offer premium quality timers with battery backup, keeping the lighting schedule the same in the event of a power failure. The Helios 13 and 16 will control up to 16 HID lights at 240 volts. The Helios 14 and 17 will control up to 24 HID lights at 240 volts. Visit a hydroponics shop near you for more information.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Greenhouses

101

Styles and Materials by Frank Rauscher

Frank Rauscher gives us the basics on greenhouse construction and the materials involved—and cautions that the most important step in building your greenhouse is first figuring out what kind of plants it’s going to contain… Greenhouses offer many benefits for professional growers and hobby gardeners alike and there are lots of different styles, materials and accessories out there to choose from. Many current greenhouse styles have a long history of use, but there are some innovations out there due to new technology—especially in the area of materials and accessories. The amount of information available on this subject is almost overwhelming and I found that I could only cover a portion in an article of this size, so I would suggest that anyone thinking about purchasing or building a greenhouse might want to do a bit more research and just use this article as a starting point. 46

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Greenhouses 101: styles and Materials

Planning

The decision to build or purchase and assemble a greenhouse should come as the result of a careful plant review and a good understanding of the kind of protection the specific plant varieties you’re going to be growing will require. This assessment will be mostly based on your local climate and various plant characteristics, although protection from pests and even people can be important too.

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If you are not sure what you’re going to grow yet, you won’t be able to determine what level of protection will be required. Don’t make a decision based on inadequate information—start your plan by knowing what you intend to grow, how much of it there will be and what features your greenhouse will need to include in order for you to be successful. After you have decided which plants you want to grow and have done the research to know what kind of environment they’ll need in order to

Don’t make a decision based on inadequate information—start your plan by knowing what you intend to grow, how much of it there will be and what features your greenhouse will need to include in order for you to be successful.

thrive, then you can choose what kind of greenhouse you’ll need.You won’t want to discover after your first growing season that you really needed a larger greenhouse, or one with different features, so plan well, build once and grow for many seasons—that’s my motto for greenhouse happiness.

Styles

Tunnel and high tunnel designs have been around for quite a while and are one way of gaining greater control over the environment in an easy and cost-effective manner. Whether you’re growing vegetables, small fruit or

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A tunnel-style greenhouse

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Greenhouses 101: styles and Materials

flowers, these structures can do the job. The fact that the basic skeletal structure of a hoop house minimizes connectors makes this design both inexpensive and simple to set up. Concerned about snow on the roof of your greenhouse? Snow weight can be an issue for standard hoop-tunnel

style structures, but an option here might be gabled or gothic roofs—these have only a single added joining point, so construction will still be relatively simple. The angle of a gabled roof slope is steeper so it will prevent any buildup of snow that might damage or destroy the unit in cold climates. Engineered greenhouses will naturally be more expensive in the design and construction phases,

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but can often provide cost or operational efficiencies down the road that make these up-front costs good investments. When we talk about ‘engineering’ we’re generally referring to things like climate control or other special features required to grow certain types of plants, or operational conveniences— like roll-up and roll-down curtains

plan well, build once and grow for many seasons—that’s my motto for greenhouse happiness.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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An engineered greenhouse

Greenhouses 101: styles and Materials

gardening operations, universities and schools, to name a few. Hobby greenhouses are most often found in kit form and have design features that

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‘Do it yourself’ is very popular today and a pre-designed kit can help take the complexity out of constructing your own greenhouse.

be large, but because the cost of design and construction are higher, their plans typically provide for a larger crop yield.

Greenhouse Kits

When the plan calls for a more basic greenhouse and the requirements are few, a kit can be just the thing. ‘Do it yourself ’ is very popular today and a pre-designed kit can help take the complexity out of constructing your own greenhouse. If this is going to be your first greenhouse and you intend to build it from scratch, you should realize that although this might be an exciting adventure it could also be just the recipe for unexpected and costly surprises—greenhouse kits can eliminate these risks and allow you to get set up and start growing in your new greenhouse with a minimum of difficulty. There are of course many different kits on the market, so some research on your part will be required to make sure you get the right one. Just because it’s a kit doesn’t mean it has to be small— you’ll find a lot of options as far as size and design out there. A good first step will be to make sure you did your pre-planning effectively. Greenhouse kits can be the right decision for all kinds of applications—like community gardens, institutional gardening programs, commercial gardening businesses, plant nurseries, garden centers, market 52

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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or windbreaks or sliding, swinging or roll-up doors.You’ll also find things like shade screens, circulation and exhaust fans, portable or rolling benches or even special flooring with radiant heating. Engineered greenhouses do not need to

make the particular hobby Greenhouse kit (photo courtesy of BackYardCity.com) in question (say, growing orchids) more convenient or likely to succeed. So if your need for a greenhouse is based on a particular plant or hobby, levered and can be opened. Generally these structures are built low to the you might want to see if a design for ground in order to take advantage of that application already exists—this can natural ground warmth—their function save you a lot of time. Another style, the is to provide temporary protection from patio greenhouse, is typically smaller cold temperatures and they are often and designed to be conveniently located used to start plants earlier in the season. close to the house—convenience is the Cold frames are most often stand-alone keyword here. plant shelters, but are sometimes actually Cold frame greenhouses used inside of larger greenhouses that Traditional cold frame greenhouses might not provide sufficient are unheated, fairly small units with a protection from cold temperatures. transparent roof. Most often the roof is

Cold frame greenhouse

Greenhouses 101: styles and Materials

Canopies and tents

Perhaps the easiest greenhouse to assemble or build and the most affordable for its size, the canopy greenhouse is a good place to start for a lot of gardeners. These structures can be designed in several styles and will feature some kind of cloth-like material covering with an aluminum, polycarbonate or wood structure for support. Covering materials like Tyvek will add strength and durability to the greenhouse. Canopy greenhouses are generally easy to relocate and this portability can be very useful in the garden. Different designs can be employed for protection from cold or for shade protection in places where the summers are dry, hot and challenging for many plants.

Greenhouse materials

There are several important issues to be considered when making your selection of greenhouse cover materials. The strength of your covering is going to be critical if strong winds or snow are likely to be encountered and the amount of light that will be able to penetrate the covering is obviously important in order to get the most out of your sunshine. However, if the issues you are going to be facing are dry, hot conditions with excessive sunlight, the amount of light that you are able to shade becomes the most important consideration.You should also remember blue light encourages vegetative growth while most plants need red or orange shades in order to bloom. Transparent and translucent plastic films are popular cover materials. The thickness of the film will determine its strength—a thickness of six millimeters

is common, while a two millimeter cover is unlikely to withstand much mechanical stress or wind buffeting and is not recommended. Often film coverings are manufactured with additives to prevent deterioration from ultraviolet radiation. These ‘UV inhibitors’ are not put into the material in order to block plant-required UV Corrugated plastic light, but to keep the material from degrading too quickly— very important! Some film materials are also mildew resistant. Greenhouses are usually humid inside—although plants like this, it’s enough of a challenge to keep the mildew from damaging our plants without having it attack the very walls of our greenhouse. Other covering features you can find are infrared

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is also available for your greenhouse, providing green benefits as well as superior greenhouse characteristics. Polycarbonate panels are also available for use where wind and other stresses are substantial. Some of these rigid plastics are fully transparent—transparent corrugated plastic adds a significant level of strength and temperature protection and there is also clear bubble insulation that can be added for cold protection.The permutations seem almost endless—sunblocker shade curtain, aluminet reflective shade screen and even liquid shade are all currently available options. They all seem pretty interesting—choosing the features and design for your new greenhouse can be kind of fun once you figure out what you’re looking for. MY

Often film coverings are manufactured with additives to prevent deterioration from ultraviolet radiation. These ‘UV inhibitors’ are not put into the material in order to block plant-required UV light, but to keep the material from degrading too quickly.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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retention (which retains desirable solar radiation), anti-condensation (which reduces precipitation from the covering) and tri-layer manufacturing processes (which improve cover strength). Recycled plastic baseboard and flooring

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

Think a greenhouse is a greenhouse is a greenhouse? Think again—the design of your greenhouse should be tailored to your local climate in order to produce those maximum yields…

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Build it riGht

A greenhouse is more than just a protective bubble for pampered plants— it serves to coax the best out of your hydroponic system and creates a pleasant, relaxing and productive space. Having a tropical oasis to take refuge in during a cold, snowy winter might seem ideal, but a good deal of planning and research needs to be carried out first to make sure the right design for the local climate has been selected. A greenhouse can be a beautifully lit, fantastically green,

"A greenhouse can be a beautifully lit, fantastically green, comfortable and airy space, or it can turn into every plant’s worst nightmare—baking hot in summer, frozen solid in winter and dripping with condensation all year round."

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

comfortable and airy space, or it can turn into every plant’s worst nightmare— baking hot in summer, frozen solid in winter and Hydroponic lettuce production greenhouse in Malaysia—insect mesh greenhouse sides allow airflow. dripping with condensation all in many different types of greenhouse year round. The difference is all in structures—growers no longer had to rely the design. on smashable glass panes and the heavy structural components they required for support. This meant that both Greenhouse materials commercial and backyard growers now Before the 1950s, glasshouses were had the opportunity to build or buy their pretty much seen as small production own cost-effective growing structures— units for the wealthy—who could afford and they could be virtually any size, to have personal gardeners growing shape or design. The development of new out-of-season fruits and vegetables plastic technologies also sparked a rapid for their tables. The development expansion in the market that saw a wide of relatively inexpensive plastic film range of prefabricated greenhouse kits materials prompted a rapid expansion

Build it riGht

becoming available for the first time. While this sudden market boom gave gardeners a huge choice as far as protected growing structures was concerned, it also led to a lot of them making basic mistakes when it came to selecting the correct greenhouse design for their particular local climate.

"Before the 1950s, glasshouses were pretty much seen as small production units for the wealthyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;who could afford to have personal gardeners growing out-ofseason fruits and vegetables for their tables." Why different designs for different climates

Not all greenhouses are created equalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a design that works well in a cool climate with long cold winters, snowfall, low light and high winds will not be the best design for a humid, tropical climate with variable light intensity. Different greenhouses are characterized by the level of protection from the outside environment they can offer and the capability they can provide growers to control the inside environment to a specific set of conditions. The level of protection required depends on the type of crop being grown and the local climate. The objective with building any greenhouse is to find a design that will allow the grower to overcome the most limiting climatic problems in their particular area and obtain the maximum growth rates possible from their crops.

Dry, arid desert climate (Jordan, Middle East). This tent greenhouse structure is designed to keep sand and dust out of hydroponic crops.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Build it riGht

More advanced high-tech, computer controlled and air conditioned structures are also in use in climates like this.

Subtropical desert and Mediterranean climates

Desert areas in the 30 to 35° latitude range can experience much lower air temperatures during the winter months—although summer temperatures are still quite high, with very low rainfall. For year-round production of many commonly grown hydroponic crops, a structure that can be heated but still maintains a cool environment in summer is necessary. In this type of climate a suitable structure is the ‘pad and fan’ cooled plastic greenhouse with top vents and heating. The pad and fan system both cools the air and increases humidity as water evaporates when air enters the greenhouse structure. Along with shading over the outside of the Misting for temperature reduction inside a tent greenhouse in a dry, arid desert climate (Jordan, greenhouse, this produces an ideal Middle East). environment during dry summer conditions. As temperatures drop— and insect-proof structure that allows Climate types and which they can during the night, even adequate air exchange to prevent heat suitable greenhouse in summer—the moist air can be vented buildup. Inside, the humidity can be designs through the top vents and the interior increased by fogging or misting, which of the greenhouse can be heated. This also acts to reduce temperatures—often Dry tropical or desert climates process reduces the humidity in the to levels well below those of the outdoor In dry desert environments, temperatures greenhouse to outside can be extremely high—hot levels and therefore enough to frazzle most plants prevents condensation inside a greenhouse structure from forming when "Condensation is one of the major threats to unless cactus is the only crop temperatures cool being g rown. Temperatures greenhouse crops—droplets falling onto plants create outside. Condensation of well over 100°F yeara level of leaf wetness, which allows many fungal and is one of the major round combined with low bacterial pathogens to aggressively attack, creating threats to greenhouse humidity are typical in this crops—droplets falling disease outbreaks that are often difficult to control as sort of climate. The main onto plants create a environmental threats are high new infections can occur every night." level of leaf wetness, winds carrying dust or sand, which allows many which can blast both crops fungal and bacterial and greenhouses. pathogens to aggressively attack, creating environment. Low humidity levels A proven type of greenhouse structure disease outbreaks that are often difficult allow for the effective use of evaporative for this type of extreme climate is to control as new infections can occurn cooling, which is the main feature of actually just a simple tent with poles set every night. cropping in this kind of dry, arid climate. deeply into the ground, constructed with Air movement is essential inside this type high-tensile steel wires to form a basic of structure to maintain good levels of framework over which a single layer of Humid tropical climates transpiration within the crop, as this is fine insect mesh is stretched and secured Tropical areas experience hot, muggy another method of natural plant cooling. around the edges. This forms a shaded conditions both day and night for much

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Build it riGht

Humid, tropical climate greenhouse. Open sides are covered in shade mesh with a saw tooth roof design (Papa New Guinea).

their greenhouses in highland of the year and are characterized areas where temperatures are by heavy downpours on a typically cooler and humidity regular basis. In lowland areas "Good tropical greenhouse designs can be as levels less oppressive. the humidity can be extreme. simple as a rain cover or plastic roof with open Good tropical greenhouse Light levels can fluctuate from or roll-up sides covered with insect mesh." designs can be as simple as being high on bright sunny a rain cover or plastic roof days to being rather low under with open or roll-up sides overcast conditions, particularly covered with insect mesh. In during the rainy season. Tropical larger greenhouses, the structure is best areas close to the equator also experience below optimal levels. Insect pressure in designed with a ‘sawtooth’ roof layout— a consistently short day length and tropical climates is often very high as this—combined with continually which allows good venting of the hot well, requiring the use of insect mesh overcast conditions—can reduce light air inside the greenhouse on clear days. over vents and on open-sided structures. levels available for crop growth to The top of the vents sometimes features Some tropical growers prefer to site a roll-up plastic cover stretching down to the gutters to prevent rain from entering the greenhouse during downpours. Since temperatures are warm day and night for much of the year, heating and insulation aren’t required and vents can remain open, covered with insect mesh. Misting systems and air-movement fans can be used to cool the environment inside this type of structure and movable thermal screens can be employed to reduce incoming sunlight on bright, cloudless days and—pulled back—to allow maximum light penetration under overcast conditions. Since high winds from tropical typhoons or hurricanes can be a major risk in this climate, these types of greenhouses are designed so that the wide insect mesh side covers will come away from the building before causing any damage to the framework. Saw tooth tropical greenhouse design. Hydroponic lettuce production in the Philippines. 66

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Temperate climates

Temperate climates are home to most of the world’s commercial hydroponic production. They are characterized by seasonal variations in temperature and year-round moderate rainfall. The temperature variation is enough that environmental modification is required for at least part of the growing season when the outside climate is unsuitable—usually when it’s too cold for optimum plant growth. Efficient heating of the air inside the greenhouse and insulating and maintaining this heated air is the main consideration.

"Temperate climates are home to most of the world’s commercial hydroponic production. They are characterized by seasonal variations in temperature and year-round moderate rainfall."

Top vents for temperature control and movable thermal screens for shading during the day and heat retention at night—temperate zone climate, New Zealand.

Temperate zone greenhouse, tomato production in Australia.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Build it riGht

Structural greenhouse design

Hydroponic lettuce greenhouse in California—both heating, cooling and supplementary lighting required.

Most modern hydroponic greenhouses for all climates these days feature a stud height of at least 10 feet and sometimes much more—an increase in height from early greenhouse designs that were often so low to the ground it was hard to stand up inside them. Regardless of the type or design of the greenhouse or what crop is being grown, a tall greenhouse structure provides a better environment for plants and a larger buffer against minor changes in external temperatures. The resulting improved capacity for air movement is a necessary aspect of modern greenhouse cropping that has been shown to benefit numerous crops by improving transpiration and reducing disease. The volume of air that needs to be heated in cooler climates can be reduced by pulling thermal screens across the greenhouse roof at night and heating only under the screen—this creates a large insulation layer above the screen and under the greenhouse roof, thus slowing the rate of heat loss through the cladding.

Growers wanting year-round high growth rates and maximum yields in these environments usually select greenhouses "Regardless of the type or design of the featuring fully clad side greenhouse or what crop is being grown, a walls, roof and side vents, tall greenhouse structure provides a better allowing large ventilation areas and computer control of environment for plants and a larger buffer Backyard greenhouses environmental equipment such against minor changes in external temperatures." as heaters, shade or thermal For the serious hydroponic screens, fogging and vents. grower who wants to Temperate zone greenhouse maximize yields from a design often makes use of backyard greenhouse the plastic cladding ‘twin skins’ where the areas of places like Canada or Russia. best option is to select a scaled-down space between the two layers of plastic is Greenhouses for this type of version of a commercial greenhouse of inflated, offering improved insulation and environment need solid walls and the correct design for the local climate. better environmental control. strongly constructed, comparatively Some design faults to look for with backyard greenhouse kits include the steep solid roofs to carry snow loads that would collapse plastic film structures. structure being too small, which restricts Cold temperate climates These greenhouses are often double airflow and can lead to a rapid buildup Cold temperate climates in latitudes above of heat. Also check for a fairly large top insulated by installing plastic film on the vent—the structure should have at least 45° are characterized by large variations in inside walls and positioning retractable day length and temperature, especially in a manually opening window for venting thermal screens across the eaves at stud continental regions. Daytime temperatures height. To prevent heat loss, vents are or a large rollback vent in the roof. can be below freezing for a large part of often kept closed during the winter Avoid greenhouse kits that rely only on the year with very short day lengths, while a small door opening to vent the house, months. This—together with short day coastal regions have short, mild summers and lengths—means supplementary carbon as this rarely works under warm growing extended day lengths. Daytime temperatures dioxide injection and lighting will be conditions. Only high-quality plastic film during summer can be very high in central necessary for hydroponic crops. should be used as cladding material—it 68

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

"For the serious hydroponic grower who wants to maximize yields from a backyard greenhouse the best option is to select a scaled-down version of a commercial greenhouse of the correct design for the local climate."

should be UV stabilized, with a suitably long life (at least three years) and you should make sure that you can get replacement claddings for the greenhouse when required. Many keen hydroponic growers have come to know the joys of a well-designed and highly productive greenhouse structure. However, getting the basics sorted before construction takes place is essential for the future health and productivity of your plants. Determining the type of outdoor climate you have, understanding the limiting factors that particular climate imposes on crop production and finding the best type of greenhouse structure to overcome those limitations is what all growers—large and small—need to do first. The same principles of greenhouse design apply to both large commercial installations and the smallest backyard structure—getting the basics right during construction will go a long way toward making any greenhouse a productive place to work or play. MY

Low-tech greenhouse structure. Cut flower production in Iran.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

y by Case

Grow tents are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to bring the greenhouse inside—Casey Jones Fraser explains why he’s a big fan…

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Jones F

ra s e r

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

I have wanted a greenhouse for most of my adult life. The longing started in college, where I would work with plants in the university greenhouse on campus. For a broke college student, a greenhouse was out of the question. I don’t know any students who have the time, money or sun-soaked property required for a working greenhouse. The alternative, in my case, was carpentry and grow lights. I started building walls and door frames in the basement of my rental house—it would take a few days to build a room and

“I don’t know any students who have the time, money or sun-soaked property required for a working greenhouse.”

I had to add ports for ventilation and power. Once the walls, doors and portholes were complete, I would line the room with reflective material before adding lights and fans. It took plenty of work and resources to build these grow rooms, not to mention time. I don’t build rooms anymore, because something better has arrived. About the time we ventured into the new millennium an innovative product began appearing on the indoor gardening scene—grow tents. These tents are boxshaped canvas enclosures supported by metal frames. Much like a camping tent, they come in a small package and

Tent pictures from Urban Garden Center (Brewer, Maine). Photo supplied by David Frazer and Noah Fecteau.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

quickly expand out to full size—you can set one up in an afternoon, complete with all your growing gear. Not every grower can buy a greenhouse, but most of us can afford one of these garden huts.

“All quality tents come with lightproof zippers and multiple ports for power cables and ventilation and many more sizes are available from a variety of manufacturers.” Grow tents—also known as portable grow rooms or indoor greenhouses—come in a variety of sizes to suit every grower. I have seen models so small that they barely hold a few seedlings and models so large they can’t fit in my house! Most of these tents are around six feet tall and some common floor plans include two feet by four feet, three feet by three feet, four feet by four feet, five feet by five feet and 10 feet

Photo supplied by Amber Dale, GROWaLOT Hydroponics, San Diego, CA.

by 10 feet. All quality tents come with lightproof zippers and multiple ports for power cables and ventilation and many more sizes are available from a variety of manufacturers. Once the tent is in place, the grower needs to supply lights, fans and the garden—either soil or hydroponics.

Lighting up the hut For young vegetative plants and mothers (donor plants), T5 lights work quite well—these lights run cooler than metal

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

not nearly as rugged and heavy as plants flowered under HPS lights. Most of us are growing flowering annuals—such as tomatoes and sunflowers—so here are my lighting recommendations for flowering in some popular tent sizes:

“Test the stud with a few quick chin-ups—if it supports your body weight it will hold your carbon filter.”

• For a three foot by three foot enclosure with a two foot by two foot garden in the center: one 400 watt HPS or MH. • For a four foot by four foot enclosure with a three foot by three foot garden in the center: one 600 watt HPS or MH. • For a five foot by five foot enclosure with a four foot by four foot garden in the center: one 1,000 watt HPS or MH. • For a 10 foot by 10 foot enclosure with an eight foot by eight foot garden in the center: four 1,000 watt HPS or MH. • For a 10 foot by 10 foot enclosure with a nine foot by six foot garden in the center: six 600 watt HPS or MH.

halide so they are easy to maintain in a small space and they are lightweight so you can hang them from the support bars of your tent. For larger vegetative operations, I suggest metal halide lights on a mover. Some light-mover manufacturers are even making accessories you can use to hang the rails from your tent supports. It just keeps getting easier! For flowering plants, more intensity might be de sired.You can flower plants with T5 l ights if big yields aren’t the main goal for your Inexpensive stationary fans are placed in each corner, with portable grow each fan facing a different direction. room—the plants will be healthy, but

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

These lighting suggestions are for indoor greenhouses where high yield and quality are desired. Lighting should be dialed back slightly for orchids. For tents with houseplants and decorative gardens, go with T5 lighting. LED lights are getting more common for grow tents, but this author is still on the fence about current LED technologies. Until conclusive results are in, I’m going to use LED lights on an experimental basis only—but if you’ve achieved good results with these diode-based lights, by all means continue to grow with them.

Fans and blowers Every grow tent needs fans—even if you have some new fangled ‘coolrunning’ grow light.Your plants need air circulation and most of us require cooling fans to keep our rooms in the

Blowers outside of tent. One blower takes air out of tent; another blower pushes air into tent.

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

each tent. I can easily plug in all of my equipment and I have yet to trip a breaker. Once you have been trained in electrical installation, it becomes easy to add power outlets anywhere you need them, but you should never install power supplies if you are inexperienced. Instead, hire a professional. Poorly planned electrical A fan with a six inch net cup, attached with zip ties.

mid to upper 70s. A gentle breeze, evidenced by leaf movement, will increase growth and deter mold. A local grower once told me he won’t use fans on his tomato plants because the movement of air makes his house smell like tomatoes and organic fertilizer. If you aren’t concerned with plant health, yield or quality, then I guess fans are optional—the rest of us will use fans and remove the organic odors with carbon filters. Circulation fans might get caught up against the canvas of your grow tent. Here we see a six inch net cup attached to a fan with zip ties. The net cup allows airflow and the back of the fan stays unobstructed—this ensures maximum air movement and minimum resistance. Fans are placed in the corners, each fan facing a different direction. This creates a vortex of air movement when the tent is closed.

Power supply Before I set up my grow tents, I had a qualified electrician install dedicated circuits for my gardens. We ran solid-core cables from the breaker box and installed the outlets on the ceiling directly above

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

installations can lead to fire and even death. Oscillating fans are ideal in a large room, but not for most grow tents. In this diagram, inexpensive stationary

fans have been placed in each corner to create total air circulation throughout the garden space. Outside of the grow tent, we see two six inch blowers. The top blower is used to pull air through the carbon filter, through the HID reflector and out of the tent and the bottom blower pushes air back into the tent. With this setup, CO2 equipment is placed outside of the garden, where it can be used to supplement multiple tents in one space.

Hanging the heavies I like big heavy carbon filters and extralarge reflectors. What can I say—grow big or go home! But seriously, it gets a bit tricky mounting this heavy steel equipment over my prized plants. In a commercial greenhouse, the structure is built with heavy-duty braces, which can easily handle heavy equipment. For indoor greenhouses, the framework is only capable of handling moderate weight. Check with your local grow shop, because you might want to fortify the frame with accessories made by grow tent manufacturers. I have seen a new skeletal support system that slips over existing framework.

Hanging stud. A two by four hanging stud hangs above the tent from ceiling hooks. This stud supports heavy equipment.

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

ceiling above your grow tent. With chain or steel cables, hang a two by four board about a half inch from the grow tent. Now you can poke small holes in the roof of your tent and screw hooks into the two by four. This hanging stud is supported by ceiling hooks and will hold heavyweight grow gear. Test the This hanging stud was placed inside the tent with steel cables running up stud with a few quick to the ceiling studs. chin-ups—if it supports With the extra support, you can hang all your body weight it will hold your of your equipment and still do chin-ups carbon filter. from the crossbars. This DIY options have the unfortunate If the support system is not an option disadvantage of permanent holes in the for you, you could install hooks into the tent, which can cause light leaks, CO2

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

loss, or even bug infestation. If you want professional support with no holes and no damage to the ceiling, get the slip-on frame support. If you need to mount gear to the walls, just pick up a hanging wall rack. These wall racks take about 30 seconds to put in your tent, and now you can mount oscillating fans, thermometers, CO2 controllers, etc., on the sides of your garden.

Soil or hydroponics? I have seen growers experience success with various growing methods, so you must decide for yourself whether to grow in hydro or soil. I am a big fan of soilless mixes—which look like soil, but technically are not. For soil and soilless mixes, you can grow in pots, grow bags, fabric containers or large beds.You might need to install a

GroW tents —21st Century Greenhouses

drainage line in the side of your tent near the base. This soilless bed garden is equipped with drainage, which is plumbed out of the tent. Heavy-duty casters are used to shift the garden a few inches in any direction. If you choose to go hydro, consider raising your tent off the floor—you can support the tent with tables or build a frame. With the tent raised the hydroponic reservoir can sit directly on the floor under the tent, which will keep your nutrient solution cool as it will not be heated

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

by your grow lamp. In general, reservoirs will stay cooler when kept on a concrete floor. Nutrient solutions should always be at 72°F, or slightly cooler.Your hydro tray will sit on the floor of the tent, giving you maximum vertical space for plant growth.

“If you are new to growing indoors, these kits are a great way to get your indoor greenhouse up and running.” Grow tent set-up at Garden Grove Organics in Covington, KY.

Tent packages Nope—not that big embarrassing fold in your khakis when you sit down. I’m talking about kits that come with a grow tent, lights and various grow gear. If you are new to growing indoors, these kits are a great way to get your indoor greenhouse up and running. If your local grow store doesn’t have pre-packaged kits, find out what discounts are available if you buy everything in one shot. Most of the sales people I know in this industry have used these garden huts, so you can expect some practical advice. Check out the display tents in the shop and measure your space at home—with a small budget and a checklist, you can go from zero to pro grow in one day. Good luck and get growing! MY

nta

ris Pia

by Ch

What’s going on beneath the surface of your garden? It’s essential to the health of your plants to ensure a vital root zone—and you can’t do that without understanding the requirements of the tiny organisms living in your garden…

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

We all have it—a range of temperature and humidity that we feel most comfortable and perform most efficiently within. Plants have it, animals have it and so do bacteria—every living thing has an optimal comfort zone. For most living things their comfort zone can be defined as a particular combination of temperature, humidity and air— all obviously necessities for life here on Earth, but different organisms require different permutations of this formula. Bacteria are no different—they need the right combination of conditions to thrive like all living things. Despite their tiny size they are crucial to successful plant growth and under the proper conditions can accelerate and increase plant growth rate and yield. When it comes to growing plants, in fact, bacteria play a role that is out of all proportion to their size. The successful gardener will make a point of taking care of these smallest of creatures and many larger issues will take care of themselves.

What are bacteria and why do we need them? Bacteria are tiny one-celled organisms—generally about 4/100,000s of an inch wide (one µm) and somewhat longer in length. What bacteria lack in size they make up in numbers. A teaspoon of productive soil generally contains between 100 million and one billion bacteria. Every grower should know the basics about bacteria and how critical the right organisms can be to successful root growth and development. As growers we are in control of our bacteria populations and the types of bacteria we make available to our crops are governed to a large extent by the conditions we keep our plants’ roots in. Bacterial populations vary based on three primary soil conditions—moisture, temperature and aeration. We have direct control over these conditions and we need to manage them properly—a consistent root zone environment that is ideal for bacterial growth will result in a proliferation of beneficial bacteria and lead to healthy roots and plants.

Soil moisture The moistness of the soil is one of the three most important factors influencing the microbial population of your garden. Water (as soil moisture) is essential to healthy bacteria in two ways: it supplies hydrogen and oxygen and serves as a solvent and carrier of food nutrients. Beneficial microbial populations proliferate best in a moisture range of 20 to 60 per cent. Under waterlogged conditions anaerobic microflora become

“The ones your plants need to thrive—the ‘good’ bacteria—are the aerobic microbes.”

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

the CoMfort Zone—fosterinG healthy BaCteria in the Greenhouse

active due to lack of soil aeration and the ‘good’ aerobes get suppressed—some beneficial microbes will die out due to tissue dehydration and some will change their forms into ‘resting stage’ spores or cysts in order to survive adverse conditions. That’s why you shouldn’t overwater your plants—the soil in your garden should remain consistently somewhere in this optimum range of between 20 to 60 per cent moisture in order to promote the activity and increase of beneficial bacteria.

Soil temperature Next to moisture, temperature is the most important environmental factor influencing the biological, physical and chemical processes that govern microbial activity and populations in soil. Though some microorganisms can tolerate extreme temperature conditions, the optimum temperature range at which beneficial soil microorganisms can grow and function actively is actually rather narrow. There are three soil temperature ranges within which microorganisms can grow and function, which divides microbes into three groups: psychrophiles, which grow at temperatures below 50°F, mesophiles, which thrive between 50 to 113°F and thermopiles, with an optimum temperature range between 113 and 140°F. Most soil microorganisms are mesophilic and their optimum temperature is around 98.6°F. True psychrophiles are almost absent in soil and thermopiles—though present in soil—tend to behave like mesophiles. True thermopiles are found more often in decaying manure and compost heaps, where high temperatures prevail.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Seasonal changes in soil temperature affect microbial population and their activity, especially in temperate regions. In winter, when temperature is low, the number and activity of microorganisms decline and as the soil warms up in spring they increase in number as well as activity. In general, the population and activity of soil microorganisms are highest in spring and lowest in winter, but growing in a greenhouse

“The successful gardener will make a point of taking care of these smallest of creatures and many larger issues will take care of themselves.” or under controlled conditions will provide consistent soil temperatures in a managed soil environment—eliminating these extremes. Soil temperature greatly influences the rates of biological, physical and chemical processes that take place in the soil. Within a limited range, the rates of chemical reactions and biological processes double for every 10 degree increase in temperature. Different pathogen species have different thermal limits for survival, germination and infection, so temperature can also control soil-borne diseases.

Aeration For the optimal growth of microorganisms, good aeration in the soil is essential. Microbes consume oxygen from the air found in soil and exhale carbon dioxide. The activity of soil microbes is often measured in terms of the amount of oxygen absorbed or the amount of CO2 exhaled by these organisms in the soil. Under waterlogged conditions gaseous exchanges are hindered and an accumulation of CO4— which is toxic to microbes—occurs in the soil air. Depending upon their oxygen requirements, soil microorganisms are grouped into three categories: aerobic (requiring oxygen), anaerobic (not requiring oxygen) and microaerophilic (requiring low levels of oxygen). The ones your plants need to thrive—the ‘good’ bacteria—are the aerobic microbes. Using devices or management practices that provide optimal moisture, temperature and aeration conditions in your garden soil will help to foster a healthy population of beneficial bacteria and microbes—you will see healthier plants and use less water and fertilizer while achieving improved results and production. Bacteria are the most critical elements of a healthy soil and root system. Healthy soil equals healthy plants; it’s that simple. What happens below the soil surface is just as important as what happens above—and it’s all based on the health and vigor of the lowly bacteria. MY

Your plants are just like you— they prefer the temperature and humidity to remain constant and comfortable all year-round. It’s up to you to make sure that happens in your greenhouse…

by Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr.

Maintaining

Control

in the Greenhouse

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MaintaininG Control in the Greenhouse

Maintaining environmental control of the atmosphere within a greenhouse might be as simple as the opening of a ridge vent (as shown in figure one) or as comprehensive as regulating the operation, number and operating speed of exhaust fans (figure two) required to keep the greenhouse interior within predetermined conditions. The atmospheric factors that must be controlled within a greenhouse are air tempera-

Figure 1. Stand-alone greenhouse with its ridge vents open, allowing for the natural outflow of warm air from within the greenhouse.

ture, relative humidity and carbon dioxide (CO2) content. Latitude and the months the greenhouse will be in operation will be the factors that determine whether heating or cooling will be the primary consideration or whether a combination of both will be required. Remember that a greenhouse is an efficient solar collector, so coolingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even when the outside air temperature is near or even below freezingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;will always be required. The challenge is to determine how the internal environment is to be either heated or cooled, the relative humidity controlled and the CO2 content maintained or increased, regardless of prevailing climatic conditions outside the greenhouse. In some instances supplemental lighting might also be required to sustain plant growth under low light conditions or during short days. A greenhouse (also called a glasshouse) is a building in which plants are grownâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which is a pretty simple definition

Figure 2. Three exhaust fans that can be activated individually, their operation determined by the volume of air required to be exhausted from the greenhouse in order to maintain a set internal air temperature.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MaintaininG Control in the Greenhouse

“The challenge is to determine how the internal environment is to be either heated or cooled, the relative humidity controlled and the CO2 content maintained or increased, regardless of prevailing climatic conditions outside the greenhouse.”

Figure 3. A wet pad installed on the back wall of a greenhouse. Air drawn through the wet pad will be cooled.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

that covers a wide range of building types. Greenhouses can be small or large and can vary wildly in shape and structure— ranging from very simple to very complex in design and operation—and can be constructed from either wood, plastic, aluminum or steel. Greenhouses can be covered with plastic sheets, film, glass or a combination of different transparent materials, coverings often referred to as cladding or glazing. The relative ‘tightness’ of a greenhouse structure presents both advantages and disadvantages—being tightly built keeps insects, disease organisms and unconditioned air out, but it can also cause cracks and breakage during sudden temperature changes if the structure is too rigid. Screening of all air paths into the structure is an essential element of greenhouse design in order to ensure efficient pest control. For the hobby or non-commercial grower, design selection factors will be based on intended use and budget considerations, while for the commercial grower the design elements required to efficiently produce a desired commodity will determine the structure and operating equipment of the greenhouse. For cooling the air that enters the greenhouse, outside air can be pulled through a moistened pad (figure three), taking advantage of the principle that air will be cooled by water absorption. If the air to be cooled already has a high relative humidity level, however, this cooling effect will be minimal. Keeping air moving over plant leaves also has a cooling effect—regardless

MaintaininG Control in the Greenhouse

“Since plants do not grow well in stagnant air, you’ll need to keep the air within the greenhouse always moving during daylight hours anyway.” of its temperature—although its relative humidity will still determine the extent of the cooling effect. High relative humidity within the plant canopy increases the potential for disease infestation and reduces the rate of leaf transpiration, which can slow growth and affect the elemental nutritional status of the plant. The relative humidity of the air within the greenhouse is not easily or economically reduced, but its effect on plants can be moderated by keeping the air moving within the plant canopy, or even within the entire greenhouse structure. Since plants do not grow well in stagnant air, you’ll need to keep the air within the greenhouse always moving during daylight hours anyway. Exhausting air from the greenhouse structure is more efficiently accomplished if the air is drawn the shortest distance possible—such as by having exhaust fans placed on the sides rather than at one end, having to pull air all the way across the greenhouse (as shown in figure four). Within a plant canopy or in an unventilated greenhouse the concentration of CO2 can become depleted to such an extent that it reduces the rate of plant photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide supplementation can enhance plant growth—and there are certain plant species that benefit from constantly maintained elevated CO2 concentrations—but there is evidence that suggests that it is the maintenance of CO2 at ambient levels (300 to 320 ppm) that provides the maximum benefit in most situations. Carbon dioxide supplementation can be difficult to sustain, however, if the greenhouse air is being periodically exhausted as a way of maintaining temperature control. Light passing through any glazing material will be reduced in intensity as well as changed in wavelength composition.

Figure 4. Exhaust fans placed on the side of the greenhouse structure, near ground level. For tall structures, exhaust fans would be placed just below the roof gable.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MaintaininG Control in the Greenhouse

Figure 5. Round light fixtures spaced in the greenhouse gable area and interior shade cloth pulled together in sections in the greenhouse gable.

Light of longer wavelengths will heat the atmosphere inside the greenhouse as well as heating up the greenhouse itself. A portion of the light entering the greenhouse will reflect from the interior surfaces, with a portion trapped inside as heat and another portion radiated back through the glazing material and out into the surrounding atmosphere. With this altered distribution of wavelengths due to the characteristics of the glazing material, plant growth characteristics—such as internode length, leaf shape and foliage color intensity—will be affected to an extent determined by wavelength distribution percentage and plant species. Supplemental lighting might be required for optimal plant growth in periods of low light intensity or during seasons with short days. In most situations, the maximum benefit from supplemental illumination is normally obtained by extending the hours of light, rather than by adding to daylight intensity. Light fixtures (round lamps) can be spaced in the gable area of your greenhouse (as shown in figure five). Depending on the frequency of periods of intense solar radiation, optimal plant production might require the use of moveable shades placed inside the greenhouse—covers that can be easily pulled over the plant canopy and then as easily retracted (figure five). Pulling shade cloth over the top of a greenhouse (as shown in figure six) can be beneficial during months of high

Figure 6. Shade cloth pulled over the top of a greenhouse in order to reduce light intensity entering the structure—this remains in place during periods of high solar radiation.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

MaintaininG Control in the Greenhouse

solar radiation, but even in summer there are days with low light conditions and shading your greenhouse during these periods can result in reduced plant growth. Warming the air within your greenhouse structure can be accomplished with either convection heating or—more commonly—hot air distribution systems. Using fuels such as natural gas or liquid petroleum, air is passed through a heat exchanger for distribution through a holed plastic pipe placed

Figure 7. A jet fan hot air heater placed in the gable area of a greenhouse, with heated air being expelled into a holed plastic tube running the entire length of the greenhouse.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

in the gable of the greenhouse (as shown in figure seven). The operation of the heat exchanger requires monitoring to prevent the emission of incomplete combustion products like ethylene (C4H4) and carbon monoxide (CO), which adversely affect both plant and human life. For optimal control of the atmosphere, air conditioning should be accomplished in an air-handling building adjacent to the greenhouse. Conditioned air should be introduced into the greenhouse from openings in the greenhouse floor or from floor ducts so that the conditioned air moves upward through the plant canopy to be collected in the greenhouse gable for return to the air-handling building. The greenhouse should have only one opening to the outside—a double-door attachment for operator access. With such a design, maintaining constant optimal atmospheric conditions in your greenhouse is possible, leading to maximum plant performance. MY References: Bartok, J.W. Jr., 2000, Greenhouses for Homeowners and Gardeners, NRAES-137, Natural Resources, Agricultural and Engineering Service, Ithaca, NY. Beytes, C.D., Editor, 2003, Ball Redbook Volume I: Greenhouses and Equipment, 17th Edition, Ball Publishing, Batavia, IL.

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15 ml (3 tsp) 4 ml (0.8 tsp)

0.79 g (0.3 tsp)

15 ml (3 tsp) 4 ml (0.8 tsp)

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15 ml (3 tsp) 4 ml (0.8 tsp)

0.57 g 0.57 g 0.57 g 0.57 g 0.57 g (0.22 tsp) (0.22 tsp) (0.22 tsp) (0.22 tsp) (0.22 tsp)

0.3 ml 0.3 ml 0.3 ml 0.3 ml 0.3 ml (0.06 tsp) (0.06 tsp) (0.06 tsp) (0.06 tsp) (0.06 tsp) 15 ml 15 ml 15 ml 15 ml 15 ml (3 tsp) (3 tsp) (3 tsp) (3 tsp) (3 tsp)

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Ventilation Systems

for Greenhouses Indoor Gardens

by Eric Hopper

Ensuring your greenhouse or indoor garden is properly ventilated is every bit as important to the health of your plants as adequate water and proper nutrition. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a quick guide to the basicsâ&#x20AC;Ś 100

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Ventilation systeMs

The ventilation system is the most important aspect of environmental control in any greenhouse or indoor garden. Plants can be given perfect lighting conditions and the most complete diet of nutrients, but without a properly functioning ventilation system they will inevitably suffer and fall short of their potential.Ventilation systems for both greenhouses and indoor gardens serve the same four very important purposes: temperature control, humidity control, air circulation, and—if it is not being supplemented—CO2 replenishment.

Temperature Probably the most obvious reason for ventilation systems is to control temperature.Ventilation systems are commonly used to remove excess heat—either created by trapped radiant energy from the sun or by high intensity discharge lighting— from the growing environment. An exhaust fan, like its name suggests, exhausts unwanted heat and stale air from the garden and is usually the first piece of equipment purchased for any ventilation system.

Humidity The humidity level within an enclosed garden is affected by multiple variables. Temperature differences between the inside and outside of an enclosure can cause condensation, which directly affects humidity levels. Plants naturally transpire water, which will also raise the humidity level within an enclosed space. Exhaust fans used to remove unwanted heat can also serve the secondary purpose of removing excess humidity, which would otherwise be trapped in the garden space.

Air circulation Air circulation refers to the air movement within the physical garden space. Greenhouses and indoor gardens alike can benefit greatly from oscillating fans, which create consistent air movement. Not only does consistent air movement result in uniformity of temperature and humidity within the growing environment, it also helps strengthen the structural integrity of your plants.

CO2 replenishment

Plants consume CO2 for photosynthesis and they expel oxygen. If the CO2 in an enclosed environment gets used up by the plants and is not replenished, the plants’ ability to photosynthesize will be compromised—ventilation systems replace stale, CO2-depleted air with fresh air containing new CO2 for plants to process.

Ventilation set-up for indoor gardens Heat naturally rises, so it is most efficient to have your exhaust fan positioned high in the grow room. The fresh air intake point should be placed low in the grow room, preferably on the opposite side of the room from the exhaust—this will ensure fresh air movement across the garden. Air follows the 102

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Ventilation systeMs for Greenhouses and indoor Gardens

path of least resistance, so it is important when setting up a ventilation system to determine where the air will flow. Imagine a string from the fresh air intake point to the point of exhaust—assuming there aren’t any large physical obstacles impeding airflow, this will be the ventilation path.

Fan sizing for indoor gardens Many factors will influence what size of fan you choose. Additional equipment such as air conditioners, dehumidifiers and CO2 burners will all affect your choice of ventilation fans. For a starting point, let’s assume there will be no additional equipment and that the climate of your garden is about average. A good rule of thumb is to have 265 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air movement per 1,000 watt light—for example, a room with 4,000 104

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

watts should have an exhaust system with a CFM rating of 1,060 or higher. For growers who decide to use a passive intake—with no fan—a slightly higher CFM rating for their exhaust might be necessary to create enough negative pressure to allow sufficient airflow. The opening for a passive air intake should be a minimum of twice the size of the exhaust. Gardeners who utilize an intake fan should choose one with a slightly lower CFM rating than the exhaust fan, which will ensure a slight negative pressure in the grow room. An air conditioner can dramatically decrease the CFMs needed to exhaust heat and this should be taken into consideration when setting up any ventilation system. Generally speaking, every 10,000 BTUs of air conditioning will replace 265 CFMs of exhaust and should be able to efficiently cool a 1,000 watt light. On the other hand,

dehumidifiers and CO2 burners add heat to a grow room and might require you to install a larger exhaust fan.

New cooling technologies and ventilation systems There have been many technological advances in indoor garden heat management in recent years, all of which can affect the sizing and set-up of ventilation systems. Air or water cooled reflectors will drastically reduce heat in the room, minimizing the required size of your exhaust fan. Some cutting-edge growers are now combining air or water cooled reflectors, dehumidifiers and super-efficient mini-split ventless air conditioning units. Used in conjunction, these technologies reduce heat to a minimum and—as long as CO2 is being supplemented—make exhaust fans unnecessary.

Ventilation systeMs for Greenhouses and indoor Gardens

Greenhouse ventilation Excess heat or stale air within a greenhouse will result in slow growth and poor overall crop performance. Ventilation systems can often prove the downfall of the novice greenhouse grower; many will never associate the mold, insects or diseases they have managed to acquire with having poor ventilation.There are two common ways to set up a ventilation system in a greenhouse: naturally or mechanically.

106

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Natural ventilation The keys to natural ventilation are wind and thermal buoyancy. ‘Thermal buoyancy’ refers to the rising of warm air within the greenhouse, a process which actually contributes to efficient ventilation. A greenhouse utilizing natural ventilation will have either retractable or removable sides or roof panels, or a series of vents. Hoop houses with retractable sidewalls are great examples of the use of natural ventilation—with the sides raised, the wind can flow through the greenhouse and replace warm, stale air with fresh air from outside. Greenhouses with a series of roof and sidewall vents remove heat via wind and natural thermal buoyancy. As wind passes over a roof vent it creates a vacuum within the greenhouse, which draws air through the sidewall vents and out the roof vents. Thermal buoyancy is most effective when there is a large temperature difference between the outside air and the air in the greenhouse. Cooler air enters the greenhouse through the sidewall vents and as the air heats up it rises and exits the greenhouse through the roof vents. On warm days—where the temperature difference is minimal— the buoyancy effect is not as powerful.

Ventilation systeMs for Greenhouses and indoor Gardens

Mechanical ventilation

Greenhouse fan sizing

Fan placement

Mechanical ventilation in greenhouses is very similar to that found in indoor gardens. Fan systems create air movement, which brings fresh air into the greenhouse and exhausts unwanted heat and humidity.

Fan systems operating during summer months should be sized to provide one volume of air exchange per minute, to a height of 10 feet. We use 10 feet as a constant when determining fan capacity for year-round greenhouses. The general rule of thumb for sizing fans is to multiply the greenhouse’s length in feet by its height in feet and then multiply by the constant—10 feet. That number will give us the cubic foot per minute capacity needed to sufficiently cool the greenhouse—for example, calculating the fan capacity required for a 15 by 60 foot greenhouse would look like this: 15 feet x 60 feet x 10 feet = 9,000 CFM capacity required for year-round cooling. Ventilation needs will vary with the seasons and cooler months will require a less aggressive amount of air exchange. In winter months most ventilation systems can be reduced to one third of full fan capacity, so it is advantageous for growers who plan on using their greenhouses year-round to invest in variable speed fans or fans that can be controlled by a dimmer or thermostat. Larger greenhouses might require multiple large fans for cooling during the summer months, but a reduced number of fans will be required during the winter.

Exhaust fans should be positioned high on the wall opposite the intake vents so that air flows over the plant canopy on its way through the greenhouse. If possible, set up your fans to work in conjunction with the prevailing winds—this can help ventilation systems work up to 20 per cent more efficiently. Passive intakes (with no fan) should be 1.5 times the size of the exhaust fan in order to ensure sufficient intake and to make sure exhaust fans aren’t overworked. If strong negative pressure is apparent— for example, if doors are hard to open because they are literally being sucked shut or the greenhouse plastic is being pulled tightly against the frame—the size of the passive intake opening needs to be increased. One highly efficient way of taking in and distributing fresh air in a greenhouse is by using a perforated polyethylene tube that inflates and extends among the plants. The intake fan fills the tube with fresh air and pushes it through the holes in the plastic, which allows fresh air to reach the plants in a direct and uniform manner. This technique is especially effective in larger greenhouses that would otherwise only have fresh air entering one end of the building. The use of perforated polyethylene tubes does require intake fans and—as with an indoor garden—these fans should have a slightly lower CFM rating than the exhaust fans so they’ll produce a gentle negative pressure within the greenhouse. The ventilation systems we install in our greenhouses and indoor gardens are a vital component in our attempt to recreate nature indoors. Just as the wind strengthens, revitalizes and nourishes plant life outdoors, the ventilation systems in artificial environments directly influence plant health and production. Sufficient air movement— combined with proper fan sizing and placement—will reduce the potential for problems and can help create ideal conditions for efficient horticultural production. MY

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Cloches to

Greenhouses by Grubbycup

Cloches, hothouses, cold frames, greenhouses—what’s the difference? Grubbycup explains how all these garden structures—big and small—can help you to extend the growing season and obtain your maximum yield…

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CloChes to Greenhouses

In summer, sunlight is plentiful and readily available to plants. Flowers and plants receive light and heat from the sun and convert this energy into plant mass. Available sunlight is reduced in spring and fall, though—and in winter, light levels drop to their lowest annual point. To extend your growing season into these less well-lit months, things like cloches, hoop houses, cold frames, hotboxes, greenhouses or hothouses can all be employed. Sunlight is comprised of a wide range of electromagnetic radiation that travels from the sun to your plants. Plants make use of both visible light (for photosynthesis) and infrared radiation (heat). Full summer sunlight has approximately 400 to 450 watts of visible light and over 500 watts of infrared energy per 10 square feet. In comparison, a 400 watt HPS light is about 20 per cent efficient for visible light, so it would take five to six of them per 10 square feet to get the equivalent amount of visible light—and there

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would be a huge excess of infrared radiation. Even using mighty 1,000 watt HIDs, you would need two or three per 10 square feet to bring the same amount of light indoors. Outdoor gardens enjoy free light, which can greatly reduce the expense of bringing a plant to harvest. While the visible portion of sunlight might still be powerful enough in cooler months to fuel plant growth, the amount of available infrared radiation is greatly reduced. By capturing and storing available heat, however, growing seasons can be extended even when outdoor temperatures drop below your plants’ comfort zone. One simple way to trap the heat from the sun is to paint an object black—a black object will absorb more infrared radiation than a white one, which will reflect much of the heat and thus remain cooler. Sunlight striking a black surface will release its infrared radiation into that surface— thereby warming it. Heat from the surface of an object will eventually warm its interior. Soil solarization uses this principle to raise soil temperatures high enough to kill most weed seeds and other pathogens. Black sheets of plastic are used to cover soil under summer sunlight—the sunlight heats the plastic and the air trapped under it, bringing temperatures high enough to sterilize the soil by killing most seeds and many harmful disease spores. While black is an ideal color for collecting and storing solar heat, it is opaque to visible light. Covering a plant with a sheet of black plastic would certainly help keep it warm, but the plant would die from the lack of visible light. Since plants need both visible light and infrared radiation to survive, the material covering your plants should not only be at least semi-opaque to infrared light but transparent to visible light. If an elevated transparent material is used

the amount of heat that is collected and trapped will be reduced, but the visible light that plants need to grow can pass though. This is why glass, plastic sheeting and other clear materials are

“To extend your growing season into these less well-lit months, things like cloches, hoop houses, cold frames, hotboxes, greenhouses or hothouses can all be employed.” used when trapping solar radiation for plants—the material should be as clear as possible to allow for visible light transmission, but still retain some opacity to infrared radiation for retaining heat energy. As long as a structure absorbs heat faster than it loses it, it will enjoy a net gain and the internal temperature of the structure will rise. In this way a structure can absorb heat during the day and release it later, during the cold hours of night. The smaller the area covered, the less buffered temperature fluctuations are—a small object heated by the sun will cool faster than a large object due to the difference in mass, so a cloche will not store heat as well overnight as a full greenhouse would. Cloches and cold frames are often useful for growing cool-weather plants in spring and fall, but they generally don’t supply enough heat during the winter months, especially at night. One way to add heat retention to an existing transparent structure is to include large black objects—often filled with water—to the interior. If heat loss during the night is still too great, additional heat might need to be added to maintain minimum plant temperature requirements. During a cold snap, covering your transparent material with something insulating— such as burlap sacks or black plastic—in the afternoon can help the stored heat last until morning. During summer

CloChes to Greenhouses

months when heat is abundant, strips of opaque material can be used to help shade the plants inside. Humidity will also tend to become trapped inside—which might be an advantage in dry environments—but this might create the kind of high-moisture environment that is attractive to pathogens if things are kept too wet. Humidity levels can be manipulated with proper venting. A cloche can help protect small spring seedlings. Originally bell-shaped glass domes that were placed on seedlings to protect them, most cloches today are made of plastic. For an inexpensive cloche for a single seedling, cut the bottom off of a two quart clear plastic soda bottle and use it to cover the seedling—this will help protect the tender sprout from the elements, keeping the seedling warm and humid inside the cloche. A larger cloche can be made for a section of your garden by building a simple frame and covering it with transparent poly sheeting. Hoop houses are a common style of large cloche and can be easily made at home—wooden boards or PVC tubes are bent into ‘D’ shapes, then raised into place, attached to each other and used as a frame to hold the outer transparent layer of sheeting. Southern or southeastern exposures are both well suited for taking advantage of solar heat and light collection—if insulation is going to be applied, it should be added to the north face and sides. When larger cloches cover entire rows of plants, they are known as row covers or high tunnels. A semi-permanent or permanent small, rigid-framed structure that uses this same principle is called a cold frame—a sturdier and more permanent version of a cloche. Usually these are wooden-sided boxes with transparent tops. Light passes through to the plants, but some of the heat is trapped inside. Cold frames can be used to start seedlings before transplanting outside. A simple cold frame can extend the growing season further into fall for cool weather vegetables and allow early spring starts to be prepared for summer growth. Cold frames are also often used as a staging area for plants started indoors, to help them harden off and transition from a protected environment to the rigors of outdoors. If a change in environment is too extreme—such as when seeds started indoors are moved outdoors—plants could die from shock. By placing indoor-grown plants into a protected cold frame, however, this change can be introduced in steps and your plants can adjust to their new conditions more gradually. To increase the internal temperature of a cold frame, composting material can be added. The heat from the composting material is retained in much the same way solar heat is kept in. A cold frame that employs this method of retaining heat is called a hotbox. To add composting material, dig down one or two feet inside the hotbox and fill the hole with a straw-manure mixture, then cover it well with soil. As the mixture turns into compost, heat from the process

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will rise from the material and add to the warmth inside the frame. Electrical heating cables or solar-heated water can also be used to increase available heat. A glass room connected to a residence is a conservatory, while a stand-alone structure of glass or transparent plastic is a greenhouse. A greenhouse is basically an upscale version of a cold frame. A greenhouse that functions well enough to maintain growing temperatures in the winter months—either through efficiency

“One way to add heat retention to an existing transparent structure is to include large black objects—often filled with water—to the interior.”

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or by utilizing additional heat sources—is known as a hothouse. One advantage to greenhouses is that not only can they be used to warm plants in cooler months, they can be cooled to reduce their internal temperatures in summer. Greenhouses often have windows that can be opened to release excess heat in the summer and sometimes fans are added for greater control. Greenhouses can range in size from a handful of square feet to huge structures the size of commercial warehouses. Although greenhouses often involve a more substantial financial investment than smaller structures, they also tend to be more durable and afford growers a greater level of control. Cool-weather plants such as lettuce and spinach are particularly well suited for off-season growing, but in some circumstances tomatoes and other tender plants can be grown as well—obviously the harsher the winters, the more difficult the grower’s task becomes.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Greenhouses can range in size from a handful of square feet to huge structures the size of commercial warehouses.â&#x20AC;?

There are many variations on the same principles of light availability, moisture supply and heat retention. Construction can entail anything from simple structures made with reclaimed household items to very expensive large-scale building projects. For the beginner, though, I recommend starting with a homemade cold frame and working up to more ambitious structures in a series of steps, as your knowledge and experience develop and your confidence grows. MY

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Plug Plants by Guy Sela

Testing and Monitoring Their Nutritional Status Guy Sela takes us through nutritional testing and monitoring procedures for those tiny precious seedlingsâ&#x20AC;Ś Plug plant production presents many challenges to growersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;seedlings are sensitive, plug volume is small and any mistake might cause critical delay or even loss of plants. Proper moisture content and nutrition are crucial to successful production. Once a problem occurs with plug plants it is very difficult to correct, so prevention is the key to successful plug production. Regular onsite testing and proper management can detect potential problems before they occur.

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Prior to planting, it is recommended that you perform a complete chemical analysis of your irrigation water and make sure that your fertilizer injectors are calibrated. Fertilizer injectors should be calibrated once a month and substrate propertiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;such as pH, salt content and moistureâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;should also be known. After planting you Once a should test salinity and problem occurs pH, check the fertilizer with plug plants delivery system and closely it is very difficult to monitor and manage the correct, so prevention moisture level in the is the key to plug substrate. successful plug In this article we will production. discuss the best way to perform these onsite tests.

In-house testing of substrates used for plug plants Testing substrate pH and EC using in-house testing methods is both quick and inexpensive. Here are some of the common testing methods, with guidelines for their interpretation. Regardless of the testing method you choose to use, make sure that the samples you take are representative of the crop to be tested. Do not mix species, as different species have different nutrient and pH requirements. Wearing gloves will eliminate the danger of contaminating the plugs with your hands.

Two-to-one (by volume) water-tosubstrate Step 1: Take five to 10 plug plant cells as a representative sample and mix the sample to ensure uniformity. Step 2: Air-dry the sample at room temperature. Unless the sample is very wet, it should be sufficiently dry in 24 hours. Step 3: Measure a known volume of your substrate sample in a beaker or a cup. The substrate in the cup should be slightly more compressed than it was in the plug. Step 4: Add two equal volumes of distilled water into the cup and swirl. Allow this to stand for 30 minutes. Step 5: Measure pH and EC directly in the extract. Step 5: Measure pH and EC directly in the extract. Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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PluG Plants

Saturated media extract Step 1: Take 10 or more plug plant cells as a representative sample and mix sample to ensure uniformity.You should collect four to eight ounces of substrate. Step 2: Place the sample in a cup and slowly add distilled water while stirring the sample continuously. Add water until the sample is saturated. This determination must be made visually— the sample should behave like a paste and the surface should glisten, but there should be no free water on the surface of the sample. Step 3: Allow the solution to stand for 60 minutes. Step 4: Extract the solution from the substrate by squeezing it through a paper towel—a vacuum system could also be used. Step 5: Measure EC and pH in the extract.

Leachate pour-through method This is probably the most convenient method for testing your substrate chemical parameters—another advantage of this method is that the procedure does not involve damage to the plants tested since the substrate is never disrupted. Results may vary substantially, though, depending on the leachate percentage of the total irrigation amount. Many growers don’t take the percentage of leachate into consideration and so might receive less reliable results. Step 1: Irrigate the crop, making sure the substrate is thoroughly wet. Allow the substrate to drain for 30 to 60 minutes. Step 2: Add enough distilled water to get two ounces of leachate. Step 3: Measure EC and pH in the leachate.

Squeeze method This method for testing the nutritional status of plug plants was developed by North Carolina State University. It is simpler and faster to perform than the two-to-one extract and the saturated media extract, since it is not necessary to dry the sample. It is also considered to be more representative than the other methods, since no subjective addition of the correct amount of water is involved. Step 1: Irrigate the crop with fertilizer, making sure the substrate is thoroughly wet. It is very important to perform this test only after fertilization. 120

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Step 2: Allow the substrate to drain for one to two hours—it is necessary to wait at least one hour in order to allow the fertilizer to come into equilibrium with the substrate. On the other hand, waiting too long may result in depletion of nutrients from the substrate by the older seedlings. Step 3: Sample substrate from at least five plug trays and mix the sample to ensure uniformity. Step 4: Place the collected sample in a paper towel or cheesecloth and squeeze the solution from the substrate into a cup. Step 5: Measure EC and pH directly in the extracted solution.

Interpretation of results Your interpretation of the results will depend on the method you used. The table below gives general guidelines for interpreting the results, using each of the described methods.

Interpretation of Soluble Salt Levels (Electrical Conductivity) of Substrates (mS/cm) Rating

Twoto-one method

Saturated media extract method

Pour– through method

Squeeze method

Very low salt levels, indicating very low nutrient status

0-0.25

0-0.74

0-1.0

Low fertility. Suitable for seedlings and salt-sensitive plants

0.250.75

0.75-2.0 1.0-2.5

1.0-2.5

Acceptable range for most established plants

0.751.25

2.0-3.5

2.5-4.5

2.5-5.0

High fertility. May be suitable for high-nutrientrequiring plants

1.251.75

3.5-5.0

4.5-6.5

5.0-6.0

Can cause root damage

>2.5

>6.0

>8.0

Interpretation of pH Levels for Substrates Acceptable range Iron-inefficient plants

5.4-6.2

General

5.8-6.4

Iron-efficient plants

6.0-6.6

(pH levels are the same for all of the described testing methods) MY

AVANT-GARDENING

by Bill

DeBoer

If you love your plants, and want more of them, cut them. Vegetative propagation is a true feat of science that is often overlooked by many gardeners today.Whether it is a lack of confidence or information, cutting a plant should not be reserved solely for pruning. Imagine taking a single plant and reproducing it dozens of times within a couple of weeks. Make this a reality by following a few basic steps to maximize your existing garden. What is a softwood cutting? This is simply a portion of a plant that is not lignified (does not contain wood). Herbaceous annuals and perennials as well as new growth from woody shrubs and trees are considered softwood. These cuttings bend easily and are often green in color.When selecting a softwood cutting, make sure the cut portion is at least three to six inches long. Less than three inches and your rooting potential might be poor (however, there are exceptions). More than six inches and the cutting will have difficultly maintaining turgor pressure and will be prone to wilting. Each cutting should have at least three nodes (although you can sometimes get by with two). Sever the cutting from the parent plant approximately Â˝ inch above a node. This will cause de-regulation of a hormone that prevents the lateral buds from branching out. Now that the section of the branch has been removed, time is of the 122

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essence. High temperatures and low humidity will cause water to transpire out of the leaves and result in wilting. Concentration gradients dictate chemicals, such as water, will move from areas of high concentration to lower concentrations in an effort to reach equilibrium. Therefore, a cutting will lose water via the leaves if the relative humidity on the air is low. You can combat this by increasing the relative humidity of the air. To do this, simply place your cuttings in a baggie, mist with water and seal. If you are outside and will not be able to stick the cuttings soon, place the sealed bags in a cooler (with ice) if the temperatures are warm (60°F and above). If your cuttings have wilted, try using a hydrating solution that florists use on cut flowers. With the cuttings properly moistened, it is time to stick the cuttings. Most herbaceous softwood cuttings will not require auxin treatments (rooting hormone); however some woody softwood cuttings will root very slowly or not at all without proper concentrations of exogenous auxin. If rooting hormones are required, make an additional cut at a 45 degree angle at the cut end.This will increase the wounded surface area ensuring proper absorption of auxin. Whether you use rooting hormone that is carried by talc powder, gel or solvents, make sure you only cover the bottom inch of the cut end. Application too far up the cutting can facilitate rotting. Now simply place the cutting into a suitable rooting substrate.This substrate should hold enough moisture without being waterlogged and be well-draining. Extremes of too much or too little moisture will result in loss of the cutting.

Lastly, make sure you are providing the proper humidity to promote rooting and not rotting or wilting. Some plants such as mums can rot if covered with a dome top or plastic baggie, and will greatly benefit from not being covered at all. When in doubt always cover softwood cuttings to maintain high humidity. If the cuttings tend to wilt quickly, remove all but three or four of the top leaves to decrease transpirational losses. Hopefully this quick guide to rooting softwood cuttings has peaked your interest to make the cut. It truly can be an exciting and easy way to quickly multiply your favorite plant. Make sure you always do background information on the plant you wish to vegetatively propagate. Softwood cuttings might not root optimal relative to semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings. So what are you waiting for…just stick it! MY

About the Author: Bill DeBoer is a research scientist at Indianabased steadyGROWpro. A master gardener intern, Bill is responsible for overseeing the company’s laboratory operation, including the design and execution of research projects, plant propagation, seed germination and overall plant care. Bill has a B.S. and M.S. from Purdue University, and was previously a research technician for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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What’

by Matt GEschkE

NEXt?

Matt GEschkE thiNks WE could bE iN for aN iNdustry rENaissaNcE—but oNly if thE ENGiNEErs start listENiNG to thE GardENErs… What’s next? It’s a basic query that leaves me stymied almost daily. In a hydroponic industry that has experienced exponential growth over the last five years, a paradoxical scene is unfolding with regard to product innovation.

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What’s next?

It is obvious to any veteran gardener that many of the designs we see today are only marginally different from

“it is obvious to aNy vEtEraN GardENEr that MaNy of thE dEsiGNs WE sEE today arE oNly MarGiNally diffErENt froM thosE offErEd a dEcadE aGo.” those offered a decade ago. Some have gotten a packaging facelift, others a label redesign—but for all intents and purposes very little has changed

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with regard to performance or overall functionality. Some would say we are only growing plants and that introducing too much technology into the garden is counterintuitive and unnecessary. “The old technology is just fine,” they chant, almost as if it’s a mantra. Many others would argue that this is a classic case of ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ or even ‘why reinvent the wheel?’ On the surface this seems like a reasonable and valid argument: however, to resist change and innovation is to embrace extinction. To put it in perspective, try to remember back a decade ago. Did you have a cell phone? Did it have voicemail?

Now reach into your pocket. I would assume most of us can produce an impossibly small, unbelievably intuitive technological marvel, capable of performing all of the tasks only a high-end PC could manage just 10 years ago. Would you be

Maximum Yield USA | December 2011

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What’s next?

happy if you still had to use a cell phone the size of a brick with a footlong antenna? So why do we settle for stagnation in hydroponics? If our goal is to supplant the environmentally irresponsible traditional agriculture paradigm with a sustainable, high-efficiency hydroponic model, we must demand and initiate change! All industries mature as the market sector they serve develops and expands, but the speed at which this process takes place directly correlates to how intuitive or plugged-in the industry’s influencers are to the needs and desires of the end-user. An intimate understanding of the requirements of the consumer combined with a progressive, motivated customer base can lead to a symbiotic evolutionary model that ultimately benefits both parties. This process works best when both groups contribute equally to the design process; however, this is rarely the case as manufacturers traditionally rely on either in-house or subcontracted engineering firms for new product designs—and gardeners, well, gardeners would rather be gardening. Within this longstanding paradigm lies the rub: it is bad business for a company to manufacture a

“to rEsist chaNGE aNd iNNovatioN is to EMbracE EXtiNctioN.”

“Would you bE happy if you still had to usE a cEll phoNE thE sizE of a brick With a foot-loNG aNtENNa?”

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What’s next

product that no one wants, yet hundreds of products every year are deemed ineffective or non-viable by the gardening community. This represents millions of dollars in wasted research and development funds that could have been earmarked for projects that might have gone on to be embraced by the gardening community while simultaneously exhibiting innovation in design. A famous rebel leader once proclaimed that “…the revolution is not an apple that falls when it is ripe. You have to make it fall.” This implies that change does not take place on its own—it requires a catalyst. Gardeners who desire change must be active and involved in the design process and eventually, the cacophonous sound of the communal gardening voice will become so deafening it can’t help but be heard. Manufacturers and gardeners can work together: from chaos comes order and from the seasoned experience of gardeners worldwide will come the

“GardENErs Who dEsirE chaNGE Must bE activE aNd iNvolvEd iN thE dEsiGN procEss aNd EvENtually, thE cacophoNous souNd of thE coMMuNal GardENiNG voicE Will bEcoME so dEafENiNG it caN’t hElp but bE hEard.”

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revolutionary ideas necessary to take us into the next age. “So what’s with all the soapbox rhetoric?” you might be asking yourself about now. “Is this some type of hydroponic pep rally?” Well, sort of—remember, we

need a catalyst to initiate change and change requires energy in the form of motivation. The next question is: what is our goal? How do we get there? Clearly, I can’t speak for the entire indoor gardening community, but I believe the inherent goal is supreme efficiency. We should strive for a completely closed bioenergy cycle in which every process feeds the next. The second law of thermodynamics states that matter cannot be created nor destroyed; it is of great importance

that gardeners understand the physics behind this axiom. Although true zero net loss sustainability as it applies to indoor gardening is implausible at present, many of the systems, mechanisms and methods necessary for us to reach for this laudable goal do exist today. This begs the question: why is the entire globe not farming hydroponically? The answer might surprise you. I strongly believe that gardeners have a moral imperative to reach out to the industry and provide grassroots feedback. It’s partly the ‘if you don’t vote you can’t complain who is in office’ type of thing, although I don’t perceive gardener apathy as being the only stumbling block in the way of meaningful industry progress—a second obstacle is intellectual isolationism. There is a notion that if one develops an idea or concept that is valuable than one must hoard it until

What’s next?

the appropriate buyer is found. Once the idea is secured it can then be brought to market and it will be subsequently

“WE’rE all iN this iNdustry toGEthEr aNd your EXpEriENcE as a GardENEr GivEs you MorE clout thaN you rEalizE.” copied by many other parties competing in that market. This happens in nearly all industries and has led to global stagnation with regard to innovation in many cases because the model rewards the scavengers and punishes the innovators. The hydroponics industry is no exception. For us to take the next step as a gardening community we must begin to broaden our outlook. For example, we must start actively identifying technologies in other market sectors that might serve our needs. Many of these technologies could be implemented either ‘as is’ or with very little modification and some of them might even be used to solve problems we

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once thought impossible. I refer to this type of communal development as ‘Frankenstein engineering.’ This approach to difficult problems is not new and was recently in the spotlight in the international media as gamers engaging in Foldit®, an online puzzle app, unraveled the key to unlocking a retroviral protease enzyme structure linked to AIDS. The complexity of the enzyme’s structure had baffled academics and doctors for over a decade, but within three weeks of being posted the online gaming community cracked it. By accepting the fact that many minds from different disciplines will always be superior to a few with a limited focus we will give ourselves a much better chance

to finally enter into a true hydroponic renaissance. So start thinking outside the box and don’t be afraid to tell people in the industry about your problems and what you think needs to be done to fix them. Go to your local retailer and tell them what you want—if it happens more than a few times, you can bet the retailers will pass the word to the wholesalers and then up the line to the manufacturers. We’re all in this industry together and your experience as a gardener gives you more clout than you realize—after all, if it wasn’t for you and hundreds of thousands like you, there’d be no industry at all… MY

TIPS AND TRICKS

By dr. Benjamin grimes

So you want to build a greenhouse Building a greenhouse is as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4…

1. Start small. If you haven’t built or worked in a greenhouse before, don’t try to jump in with both feet. It’s very easy to get overwhelmed and as a result, your plants will suffer. All gardening requires work, but gardening in a greenhouse is a step up from gardening outside. Enclosing an environment is like building a giant petri dish in an incubator; what is inside will grow rapidly and there is little interaction with the surrounding environment. This includes both beneficial and harmful organisms. As a result, more 134

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attention must be given to recognizing and remedying problems early. 2. Location is everything. We hear about it from day one in school, but too many people still don’t understand what it means. Picking the right location for your greenhouse is everything, if the sun doesn’t shine on it all day, then what was the point? Begin by first looking at what areas receive light from sunrise to sunset, yes a little bit of shade is okay, but not if it blocks your plant’s light for more than the

very beginning or very ending of the day (think twilight). Next you’ll want somewhere that is flat, or can be made flat, and preferably has decent drainage. If you will be using planters and trays, then a gravel pad for your greenhouse will make life a lot more comfortable. 3. Materials available for building your greenhouse can be selected from the common plastic, metal, wood or glass categories. Each has benefits and drawbacks, but the decision on what to use usually comes down to money; after that however, the decision becomes about longevity. It’s no secret that you get what you pay for, and greenhouse construction is no different.

PVC pipe is very cheap and easy to work with. PVC pipe has been used for years to build basic hoop houses and add support to mixed material structures. PVC does break down in the sun and should be painted to protect against deterioration. This material does not stand up well to high wind or harsh rain, and generally cannot be used to hang plants from in the garden. b. Metal pipe or the common “cold frame” greenhouses are a major upgrade from PVC.They are long lasting, require little maintenance and are capable of withstanding some severe weather conditions.There are some limitations to versatility, but are almost infinitely scalable to meet your needs. c. Wood-frame greenhouses date back centuries and are the most versatile option for most builders. This is because wood is easy to work with, comes in many standard sizes, and can be formed into nearly any desired shape. The principal limitation of wood is its tendency to rot, so care is required, but if you want to build using sustainable materials, wood is your best bet. I include bamboo and rattan in this category as well. If you have access to this material, it is usually much less expensive than dimensional lumber. d. Glass is the first material to have been used to build greenhouses, and is the longest lasting of all materials that can be used to cover a greenhouse. It can be prohibitively expensive for most, but allows the highest quality light to pass through and does not deteriorate in the sun. Glass does require a lot of heavy framing, but is compatible with both wood and metal framed structures. e. Plastic covering, sheeting or film, whatever you want to call it, plastic has become the standard for covering greenhouses worldwide. It is cheap to buy and use, and comes in a variety of styles, reinforcements and light transfer qualities. All plastics deteriorate in the sun, however, and are easy to tear or become deformed when damaged. Heavy rain, high wind and a myriad of other weather problems have led to the demise of many a greenhouse and its contents that were covered by plastic. 4. When in doubt, ask! Information is mostly free, and greenhouses are no exception. Go online and check out the forums, info pages and sales sites that are out there; your local library is also a wonderful source of information. Remember, you aren’t doing anything new. A lot of people have tried nearly everything when it comes to greenhouses, and a quick search may save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. MY About the Author: Benjamin Grimes PhD (hc) is a horticulture enthusiast. He regularly applies his extensive skills in engineering and science by installing his control systems for indoor gardens and greenhouses throughout Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Benjamin is devoted to the research and development of sustainable and alternative agriculture solutions. Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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With Jeremy Marsh From H2Organic Farms by Lee McCall

Lee McCall gives you a quick overview of greenhouse technology and practices and then takes a moment to chat with an expert about growing tomatoes—LOTS of tomatoes—in a very big greenhouse… 136

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trade seCrets

The greenhouse is a familiar structure, found worldwide in a vast array of styles and designs that vary from place to place. This issue I’ll discuss the greenhouse and all the qualities that make it ideal for cultivating virtually any plant species. I’ll also present an interview with Jeremy Marsh, who owns and operates H2Organic Farms, a 14,000 square foot state-of-the-art greenhouse that currently produces some of the most desired varietals of heirloom tomatoes in the Denver Metro area. He’ll take us on a brief tour of his operation and talk about his interest in gardening and producing high-quality produce. Many different factors go into having a productive greenhouse. Positioning and direction are very important if you plan on erecting a new house from the ground up—things like latitude and the kinds of plants you wish to grow will figure into finding the best way to position your greenhouse. I’ve heard that a greenhouse positioned north and south in an area that receives full exposure all day will provide the most uniform delivery of sunlight for superior crop performance, but ultimately factors such as crop and time of year will also affect this decision. Ventilation and insulation are both important control qualities in a properly built greenhouse. During the warm season excess heat is controlled through fans, retractable panels and shade cloth. When winter weather arrives, you’ll need adequate insulation to deal with cool nighttime temperatures that might discourage optimal growth. Standard protocol to combat freezing temperatures for days or even weeks at a time might also entail natural gas heating. Although this method is extremely costly and somewhat inefficient, it is effective for supplemental heating purposes. Greener techniques and systems exist as well; one I’ve seen recently uses heat recycled from incoming light entering the greenhouse, which is then captured at the highest point in the house, transferred to a water 138

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I’ve heard that a greenhouse positioned north and south in an area that receives full exposure all day will provide the most uniform delivery of sunlight for superior crop performance, but ultimately factors such as crop and time of year will also affect this decision.

source and projected through plumbing. The heated water is then used to warm the ground and maintain a stable and consistent temperature in the greenhouse even during the coldest parts of the year. Used in conjunction with sunlight, supplemental lighting might allow greenhouse growers to meet the micromole—or radiant light energy—levels required in order to achieve specific crop growth. Greenhouse lighting set-ups are becoming more prevalent as the year-round gardening market increases in popularity—you’ll find a variety of styles, types and technologies on the market, all engineered to increase crop performance in greenhouse situations. New products include double-ended 1,000

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Unlike indoor gardening with horticultural lighting, greenhouses are not necessarily the best places to use air-cooled reflector housings that extract heat out of the house.

watt HPS fixtures that utilize innovative Dutch 400 volt lamp technology. Unlike indoor gardening with horticultural lighting, greenhouses are not necessarily the best places to use air-cooled reflector housings that extract heat out of the house. Several theories exist to support this reasoning. First, air-cooled reflectors tend to be large, heavy and expensive—and a larger reflector will result in a larger shade spot. In fact, a larger reflector might ultimately deflect just as much natural light penetration as the supplemental 140

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artificial light the fixture helps provide. Light is also lost through the duct ports on air-cooled reflectors, while their nonair-cooled counterparts reflect this light back down to the canopy. Ideally you should implement a reflector design that disperses light in a broad and uniform pattern instead of a direct penetration design that promotes a specific footprint. In the greenhouse your HID lighting is working in conjunction with sunlight, so typically a light will cover a much larger area than it would if you were growing indoors solely under artificial light. Drip irrigation is commonly used in greenhouse growing for larger, long-season crops. Drip systems are extremely efficient in terms of water conservation and delivery—pressure-compensated emitters that allow only a specific amount of water to reach the planting site increase uniform productivity with minimal waste from run-off water. Drip systems are very versatile in accessing harder-toreach areas and are easy to assemble and relatively inexpensive in comparison to other automated systems. NFT (nutrient film technique) systems are also very common in greenhouses that are producing leafy, short-season crops such as herbs and lettuces. These systems are comprised of rain-style gutters connected together lengthwise—a submersible pump delivers a nutrient solution to each gutter, creating a small stream of water running through the bottom of each channel. Although completely hydroponic, these systems are also relatively cheap to assemble, since there is virtually no grow medium required aside from whatever was used to sprout the initial seed or cutting. Another form of greenhouse agriculture—which combines fish farming with plant propagation—is aquaponics. This form of hydroponics utilizes fish tank water, using fish waste to supply the plants with the beneficial elements they require for growth. These systems can be a little trickier to operate as there are two

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different elements involved—plants and fish—each requiring individual care. In my interview with greenhouse grower Jeremy Marsh, I ask him to share a few of his personal techniques with our readers and let us in on the secrets that have allowed him to become a successful largescale heirloom tomato producer.

Lee McCall: When were you first introduced to greenhouse growing? Jeremy Marsh: I first started greenhouse growing in February 2011 after many years of bountiful backyard gardens. I've been growing on a commercial scale for over a year now.

Lee McCall: How many tomatoes are you harvesting at any given time? Jeremy Marsh: Last summer I harvested ripe tomatoes to order, picking roughly 250 pounds a day about four to five times a week. Currently, I have three times as many plants—approximately 2,600—each expected to yield about a pound a week.

Lee McCall: What style of growing are you using? Jeremy Marsh: I'm currently growing with a drip system, using coco coir in plastic five gallon grow bags. I plant two plants per bag with one dripper per bag. This is a basic hydroponic system that allows me to use organic inputs throughout the cycle. Nutrients are fed to the plant with each watering cycle and I also add several amendments to the coco to help get the plants off to a strong start. I strive to produce the besttasting tomato I can by using products to increase the brix level in the plant…the higher the brix, the better the flavor, due to a healthier plant.

Lee McCall: What are the most productive times of the year for you? Jeremy Marsh: The most productive season for me is late spring because of the 142

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In the greenhouse your HID lighting is working in conjunction with sunlight, so typically a light will cover a much larger area than it would if you were growing indoors solely under artificial light.

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additional hours of sunlight, an increase in the sun's intensity and the young age of the plant starts.

Lee McCall: How early in the year will you sow seeds in preparation for spring planting? Jeremy Marsh: Field crops are planted out in late May to June. Seeds are planted in preparation beginning in February or March, depending on the variety and size you want. For the greenhouse crop the plants are seeded in early winter and produce through the following December—you get about 10 months of production with a successful tomato crop inside a greenhouse.

Lee McCall: What’s the largest fruit you’ve ever grown? Jeremy Marsh: Last summer I grew a giant pumpkin that weighed 427 pounds. The giant pumpkin plant sprawled about 30 feet in every direction and it was lot of fun to watch it grow! I hope to someday break the 1,000 pound mark with a giant pumpkin.

Lee McCall: What is your preferred style of indoor gardening? Jeremy Marsh: I like the drip system that I'm using for automated irrigation and the coco has been a great medium overall. Coco coir has many benefits over other mediums, in my opinion— it’s easy to flush if needed and is fairly cost effective. It holds up better than peat, which is good for a long crop like tomatoes. Coco also absorbs water readily and keeps well aerated. The cloth aeration containers also work really well and can be implemented in many types of systems, including ebb and flow systems. I've found these to work well and they are easy to use. The increase of oxygen to the root zone—as well as the root pruning caused by these containers— tends to improve plant growth rates.

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Jeremy Marsh and his tomatoes.

A larger reflector might ultimately deflect just as much natural light penetration as the supplemental artificial light the fixture helps provide.

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Lee McCall: Do you have any nutrient preferences? Jeremy Marsh: Plenty of Mycorrhizaeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Glomus intraradices in particularâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and cold pressed kelps and fish emulsions are a definite plus as they increase vitality and color. Supplemental calcium is also a must for tomatoes to prevent blossom end rot and promote healthy structure. Go organic if possible.

Lee McCall: Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best advice you have for someone growing tomatoes? Jeremy Marsh: Tomatoes like a lot of food throughout their life cycle so choose a plot with rich soil and amend the plot based on a soil test. A drip system is the best way to water as it doesn't disturb the root zone and it also doesn't get any water on the foliage, which can create problems. A drip system will enable you to consistently water your tomato plants with ease, allowing you to focus on pruning and

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training your plants rather than watering. Also, the early morning (at sunrise) is the best time to water your plants and also the best time to pick your produce

for the longest shelf life and best flavor. Keep a close eye on your plants and research any issues that may arise quickly, to avoid major problems.

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Lee McCall: What’s the most common problem you encounter in the greenhouse? Jeremy Marsh: Keeping the conditions ideal and consistent throughout the greenhouse is a challenge. Maintaining temperatures can be difficult on the hottest days in the summer and the coldest nights during the winter, depending on the type of greenhouse you're using. There are many things that need to be continuously monitored and adjusted to maintain ideal conditions—pests and diseases are a major obstacle to avoid. Thrip screens on the air intake, predator insects and constant monitoring are all required to avoid catastrophic problems. Constant sanitation practices are required to avoid diseases— there's always the threat of a virus taking over and wiping out the entire crop. Pests not only damage your crop but can also spread diseases, which could kill the entire crop. There is also the major challenge of keeping the plants supplied with the correct levels of macro and micronutrients—which can be monitored through regular tissue analysis as well as visual monitoring.

Lee McCall: What are your favorite varieties to grow? Jeremy Marsh: I have grown several heirloom varieties with varied results—my favorite heirloom so far is the Aunt Ruby's German Green, which is a green tomato with an amazing flavor. I have many varieties, colors and flavors of heirloom tomatoes. My favorite hybrid is the Big Beef, which has a good flavor with a high yield potential. I also have many varieties of greenhouse-specific tomatoes that produce much higher yields than the heirlooms, but the flavor of some of the heirlooms is hard to match. I also grow some of the world’s hottest peppers—like the ghost pepper (bhut jolokia) and the Butch T Scorpion pepper. MY 148

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GroWinG for HEaLTH

Herbs for

by Dr. Benjamin Grimes

Your Health

The world that surrounds you is part of a connected system that can be used to make and keep you healthy, and your garden can be the key to your future health.

Your garden can do more than provide food to eat and spices to flavor your culinary creations; it can also improve your health and decrease your dependence on manufactured drugs. The truth is there is a drug problem; this year alone 1.6 million people will be hospitalized after reacting to the side effects of prescribed drugs. Of those hospitalized about 160,000 will die as a result of the drug reaction. The garden offers an opportunity to break the cycle of chalky pills and puts control back into your hands and your responsibility. Living in the Pacific 150

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Northwest I am literally surrounded by a forest of medicines that are capable of doing everything the aisles of my local drugstore can. Some of my favorites are also garden friendly.

which actually helps fight colds and flu. It can be eaten, made into tea or any number of extraction methods; this is an incredibly safe plant to work with.

Mint

Common, green, hard to not recognize; the juices of the fern will quickly ease stinging nettle burns, can ease minor cuts and treat insect stings. The Bracken fern is similar to the Lady fern and contains mostly the same chemicals.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practically a weed, some people fight to kill it, but I just keep it in a planter on the porch. Mint is already famous for everything from toothpaste to candy, but it also sooths headaches, fights nausea, calms the stomach and reduces nervousness. Some varieties, such as Korean mint, is fairly effective when used as an antiviral,

Lady Fern

Alfalfa For lack of a better label, alfalfa is a

super-food. Alfalfa is incredibly rich in minerals, beneficial amino acids and easily digestible proteins. The root system is capable of growing up to 30 feet deep, and can survive in a wide variety of environments. Medicinally, alfalfa can be used to treat morning sickness, nausea, kidney stones and urinary disorders; it’s also a liver and bowel cleanser, as well as cholesterol reducer.

Sage Everyone that gardens should raise sage. It is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal. It has been used for millennia to preserve meat before refrigeration existed, but also can be used to aid digestion, relieve cramps, fight colds, reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

California Poppy Both a common ornamental and a weak opioid, the California Poppy is an effective treatment for anxiety. In fact the opioid level is so low that the poppy is considered safe for use on agitated children. The simplest method of use has not changed in the last 20 millennia or so: make tea, drink. The longer it steeps, the more powerful it will be.

Aloe Vera One of the more famous botanicals, aloe vera can be used both externally and internally. Burns are the most commonly treated wound, but long-term care of eczema is also possible with aloe vera. The juice of the plant can also be extracted to treat a variety of digestive problems, such as constipation and ulcerative colitis. These are an introductory few of the many plants that can be grown in your garden that have medicinal uses. In total there are probably several hundred varieties that exist both in and around my garden; the important part is being able to identify and prepare each one to maximize its benefit. The good news is that you’re not alone; humans have been experimenting with plants for hundreds of generations. We know what works and what doesn’t, and what combinations strengthen, activate or negate the effects of each plant. The Internet is one method of researching what plants might be most beneficial to you and your garden, but I cannot stress enough the value of keeping a printed book on hand for reference. About the Author: Benjamin Grimes PhD (hc) is a horticulture enthusiast. He regularly applies his extensive skills in engineering and science by installing his control systems for indoor gardens and greenhouses throughout Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Benjamin is devoted to the research and development of sustainable and alternative agriculture solutions Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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BEGINNER’S CORNER

Greenhouse

Growing for

NEWBIES by Karen Wilkinson

Green-thumb beginners, prepare to grow glorious crops in greenhouses with these quick expert tips.

A greenhouse can be a blessing or curse. On one hand, you can eliminate many of the unknowns that come with traditional gardening—the changing seasons, extreme temperatures and those darn pesky critters. At its best, a greenhouse provides the ideal environment for rapid plant growth and can be used to extend growing seasons. On the other hand, a greenhouse environment is controlled, so virtually all responsibility (for better or worse) is placed upon the shoulders of its hopefully green-thumbed owner. At its worst, an unattended greenhouse can be a death trap for life within it. So, let's make sure those cherry tomatoes and hot peppers you've got growing attract neighbors' envious stares. And that they don't wilt and die prematurely from overexposure and neglect. 152

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Why a greenhouse? Greenhouse technology is many things— amazing, awesome, inspired, adaptive and brilliant—but definitely not new. While it might seem that these sunlight-capturing structures are the latest gardening trend, their roots, if you will, can be traced back to Roman times. Emperor Tiberius' routine of eating a cucumber-like vegetable, all year, despite the obvious growing restrictions, pushed Roman gardeners to develop methods similar to the greenhouse. Later, in the 13th century, Italy built the first modern greenhouses, and soon the plant propagation development spread to England and the Netherlands. Today's structures are much more widespread; you can buy a greenhouse kit from your local hardware or gardening store, take it home and have it ready for new tenants in just hours. And whichever

style you prefer—glass or plastic panels— the science works the same. But that initial concept of growing vegetables year-round without concern for the changing seasons is at the heart of the greenhouse’s glory and remains its number one draw. It also allows gardeners to grow exotic plants that wouldn't otherwise survive, as it's a barrier between Mother Nature and your tender plants. And we all know what Mother Nature can be like. Why a greenhouse? While a greenhouse certainly provides a haven from the elements and sounds effortless to use in theory, the realities are much less, well, glamorous. There are still spiking (and plummeting) temperatures to worry about, on top of the daily watering, ventilation, and disease and pest issues that come along with gardening.

Growing vegetables, fruits and herbs isn't hard, per se, but it's no cake walk. And the controlled environment of a greenhouse takes a lot of control, manipulation, technique, maintenance, love; and also air, water and sunlight—the essentials. • Vent,Vent,Vent! Seriously, if this part of the equation is left out, your plants risk dying an early death. It's kind of like leaving a dog or baby inside a hot car with the windows up—after just an hour trapped in such temperatures, tragedy can ensue. Greenhouses can heat up significantly in the summer and plants need fresh, cooler air to survive and help equalize the temperatures. Many people use fans or open the doors to spur circulation. The best advice is to incorporate “checking in” with your greenhouse daily, before the day's highest temperatures hit, to determine its ventilation needs. Keep in mind that 85 degrees and above is considered the danger zone for many plants. An outdoor thermometer can be used to monitor temperature. • Size Matters Here, Guys. It's not always the case, but when it comes to a greenhouse's ability to handle extreme temperature changes, the bigger it is, the better. • Go Easy on the Nutrients. Light within a greenhouse breaks down nitrogen more slowly than do the sun’s direct rays, and the nutrient can accumulate easily in the soil. • Make a Routine. Neglect can be deadly, especially in a greenhouse.You are the controller here and constant upkeep is key to thriving plants. So make a daily routine, before the heat of the day kicks in, to check the inside temperature, adjust the greenhouse's ventilation needs, check plants for pests and disease (they can easily thrive in such an environment) and, of course, water them if needed. If you can't do this every day, hopefully you have a kind neighbor or friend who will help out. If you're ready to sow some seeds, grow exotic plants or even grow your tomato plants to maturity, a greenhouse is an ideal space. But it's definitely not one of those “set it and forget it” systems that you can leave unattended for days at a time. Plants certainly thrive in this solar radiation loving system, but it's usually when the caretaker is tenacious and thorough. So put your heart into your plants; they'll reward you with a bountiful harvest soon enough! About the Author: Karen Wilkinson is a writer and gardener based out of Sacramento, California. She most recently worked for EZ-CLONE Enterprises, Inc., and has spent much of her career writing for newspapers and other publications. She's a health freak, yoga fanatic and is always ready for a new challenge, including spreading the word about best grow practices.

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Original ‘Greenhouse Effect:’ How Greenhouses Can Change Change the Way You Grow by Matt Lebannister

The term ‘greenhouse effect’ doesn’t have to be a bad thing—it can describe the enjoyment that growers will feel when they discover a way to extend their beloved hobby through the chilly winter months and diversify the contents of their gardens gardens—

The word ‘greenhouse’ has come to mean something negative lately—whenever you hear the word on television or read it online or in the paper it is invariably connected in some way to global warming. The ‘greenhouse effect’ is a term used to describe the process by

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which the gases we have released into the atmosphere—through manufacturing, driving cars, using aerosol cans and so on—are trapping the solar energy that is believed to be causing global warming. There is another type of greenhouse effect, however—one that is positive

and beneficial to life. It is the effect that allows you to taste the first strawberry or tomato of the season, to smell beautiful flowers that you grew yourself in the middle of winter when you are surrounded by snow or to create a tropical paradise that is all your own. There are

the oriGinal ‘Greenhouse effeCt’

"One great benefit of gardening with a greenhouse is the ability to extend your growing season."

numerous benefits to building a greenhouse, apart from the sheer joy it can bring—from conserving energy to being able to grow year-round. Greenhouse gardening is a great way to be active, mentally and physically, while doing something productive and staying in touch with nature.

Extend your growing season One great benefit of gardening with a greenhouse is the ability to extend your growing season. Solar heated greenhouses allow light to pass through the glass while trapping the heat within, so gardeners can start propagating outdoor plants inside the greenhouse early—giving them a head start on the growing season by allowing them to plant flourishing plantlets right after the last spring frost. Greenhouses also allow gardeners in short-season regions to extend their growing seasons by utilizing their greenhouses’ ability to protect plants from cold and frost and to trap solar heat. Many gardeners will actually grow in their greenhouses all year-round, although if your region is exceptionally cold some supplementary heat might be required. Using a thermostatcontrolled heater can help keep your tropical paradise warm throughout the coldest of winters. If you don’t want to use a heater you can run traditional Christmas lights around the greenhouse to add a little extra heat—if you use green or red

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the oriGinal ‘Greenhouse effeCt’

lights you won’t disturb the darkness cycle of your plants’ photoperiod. Another solution is just to grow plants that thrive in cooler temperatures during the winter months.

Save energy Another important benefit of gardening in a greenhouse is saving energy. When you garden indoors you will have to provide everything necessary for plant growth—including light. This usually means that to raise fast-growing plants such as tomatoes, you must provide a high-intensity discharge (HID) lamp to give the plant enough light to thrive. A 1,000 watt high-pressure sodium bulb and ballast can only effectively light a 10 foot by 10 foot space, so the larger the garden the more light you will need to use. This can become quite costly as you need a ballast for each light.You’ll also have to buy bulbs (metal halide for the vegetative stage and high-pressure sodium for flowering) and those bulbs will need replacing every eight to 12 months, depending on use—and of course you’ll have to pay for the electricity to run those lights 12 to 18 hours a day. Greenhouses are designed to efficiently capture the free solar energy provided by the sun, thus eliminating the need for costly lights—although you might need to supplement the light during the shorter winter months to increase its intensity or to extend the daylight photoperiod in order to keep vegetative plants from blooming before they are mature enough.

"If you don’t want to use a heater you can run traditional Christmas lights around the greenhouse to add a little extra heat."

Create a tropical paradise One of the most exciting aspects of gardening in a greenhouse is the ability it provides you to create a tropical microclimate. If you were to try to create a tropical environment indoors it would be very difficult—you would need a lot of light and 158

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the oriGinal ‘Greenhouse effeCt’

humidity and that would expend a large amount of electricity. The humidity could be damaging to a home as well, possibly causing mold and fungus to penetrate walls and rot wood. Pests might also become a big problem. Greenhouses that aren’t made with wood won’t rot, however—and they are designed to hold in heat and humidity. Greenhouses are perfect for raising those tropical flowers and orchids that you’ve always wanted.

Diversify your garden One great feature of gardening in a greenhouse is how versatile your garden can become. When gardening indoors you usually have to stick to either plants that love intense light or plants that prefer medium to low levels of light. When gardening in a greenhouse, though, you don’t have to choose—you can do both. There are many ways that you can grow plants that love intense light right alongside those that prefer less. One way is to install a shelving system in your greenhouse. The plants that need intense levels of light—such as vegetables and many flowers—should be positioned on the top shelves. This places them closer to the ceiling, which is where direct intense sunlight enters the greenhouse. Keeping the medium- to low-light loving plants on the lower shelves will ensure that they receive their light at an angle, making it less intense. There are also other options to help you diversify the kinds of plants you can grow in your greenhouse garden. For instance, you could apply different materials to diffuse the light coming into your greenhouse—like using translucent white plastic along the windows and ceiling of the area you wish to allow less light through. A fine mesh is also suitable for diffusing light coming into your greenhouse. These materials are easy to apply and easy to take down if more or less light is required, which can make propagating seedlings and clones in the same space as mature plants a simple matter. 160

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"One of the most exciting aspects of gardening in a greenhouse is the ability it provides you to create a tropical microclimate." There are huge benefits to having a garden with many different plants growing in it—not only is it a joy to have such a variety of plants, it can actually make your garden healthier. It is well known that monocultures—where only one type of plant is grown—can be very risky. In the event of a pest or disease outbreak, a monoculture can be wiped out very quickly, while gardens containing a variety of different plants are more likely to survive a pest or disease outbreak.

Live healthy Gardening in greenhouses isn’t just fun and rewarding—it can improve your health as well. Greenhouses give you the opportunity to grow healthy, organic fruit and vegetables all year long. Gardening also keeps us healthy by keeping us active—the few hours we spend tending to our beloved plants each day is a mild cardiovascular activity,

keeping our hearts healthy and strong. Gardening helps you to relax and lowers your blood pressure and a greenhouse can also help prevent and treat SAD or seasonal affective disorder. There is more to greenhouses than meets the eye—they can provide us with healthy food and visually pleasing ornamentals, they give us a way to extend our growing seasons, they can improve our mental and physical health and they can even provide a tropical getaway right in our backyards. Greenhouses improve and enrich our lives and—most importantly—they allow us to enjoy gardening all year long. MY

Source Greenhouse Gardener’s Companion: Growing Food & Flowers in Your Greenhouse or Sunspace, Smith, Shane, 1992, Fulcrum Publishing

in a

WhY GroW

Greenhouse? BY shane hutto

There are pros and cons to every system of growing and greenhouses can be awfully expensive. What do you need to know going inâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and is it even worth it?

The difference between growing indoors and outdoors is like the difference between artists using a small canvas versus painting the Sistine chapel. Most hobbyists couldn't manage a greenhouse with more just than a few plants and even a commercial-scale

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indoor grower would have a lot to learn to make the transition to greenhouse production. Although it is tricky to grow in a greenhouse, successful greenhouse production can deliver 10 times the yield of an indoor grow space. Everything is faster and

more magnified in an under-the-sun operation, but this can be a great thing if you learn a few key skillsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;temperature management, water management and simple observation are the three best things for a greenhouse grower to be good at.

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Why GroW in a Greenhouse?

althouGh it is trickY to GroW in a Greenhouse, successful Greenhouse production can deliver 10 times the Yield of an indoor GroW space. Nothing on our planet is a better source of light than the sun. The sun can grow larger, healthier plants than any indoor lightâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but there are many problems that are accelerated by sunshine. Temperature is the biggest problem when using solar energy, because a greenhouse is designed to trap heat while still allowing the plants inside to harvest light. High temperatures can be managed in several ways, depending on the region where your greenhouse is located. Probably the easiest and most economical is a shade clothâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;these come in various percentages of shading and will help prevent excessive temperatures, but they will also cause a loss of light intensity. Some loss of light is 164

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Why GroW in a Greenhouse?

air conditioners are mainlY used in cooler reGions Because in a hiGhheat environment an air conditioner isn’t verY economical to run 24 hours a daY in a Greenhouse.

usually acceptable if you are experiencing high temperatures, though, because your plants probably can’t efficiently use all the light they are being given. Some other cooling devices employed by greenhouse growers are vents to allow heat to escape and exchange air, fans to pull new air in (and push out the old), cool pads and air conditioners. Cool pads are essentially water evaporators that have air pulled through them,

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which puts cooler air in the greenhouse but also increases the humidity drastically. Air conditioners are mainly used in cooler regions because in a high-heat environment an air conditioner isn’t very economical to run 24 hours a day in a greenhouse. Cold temperatures can also present a problem but are somewhat easier to manage. Most greenhouses employ standard warehouse heaters, which are

expensive to run but effective. These are often combined with a jet tube that helps redistribute the warm air evenly—a jet tube is simply a plastic tube, usually about two feet in diameter with circular holes cut down the full length, which is closed off at the end. This essentially fills like a balloon and as the heaters are running it stays inflated, distributing the hot air. Other common methods of heating a greenhouse are heated floors or benches—think of sealed tubing built into the floor or the greenhouse bench, circulating hot water. Put this under the plants and the heat will rise, making the environment warmer for the plants. Water management is tricky to learn indoors but it can become predictable after some practice. Growing in a greenhouse is a different experience every day, thanks to our friend Mother Nature. Plants adjust to the conditions of the environment and so should your watering

Why GroW in a Greenhouse?

schedule—on a cloudy day a greenhouse grower may have to water once, when on a normal sunny day he might water six times. The comparison to indoor growing is simple; artificial light indoors can only provide as much radiation to your plants as the sun on the cloudiest of days. This means if you are indoors and watering several times a day, it is too much! The true key to growing, whether indoors or outdoors, is observation.You must look at your plants—and look at them often.You should ask yourself several things every time you look at your plants. For example, how are the leaves oriented? Are they tilted toward the light or folded away? What color are the leaves and are there oddly colored leaves or spots? Do you see

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any bugs? Is all the equipment running properly? What does the thermometer say? All these things should cross your mind when examining your plants and in a greenhouse you had better not forget any of them—one bad day in a greenhouse can kill everything, whereas an indoor crop will likely survive one bad day, although it’s not very healthy for the plants. The real reason to grow in a greenhouse is to make money. While some growers employ small greenhouses as part of their hobbies, real commercial-scale greenhouse production has the potential to generate a higher-value crop than any other agricultural system if conducted properly. The amount of money to be made can be enticing, but there is also a high cost of entry into this market—greenhouses are not cheap and you could end up investing an astronomical amount of money, depending on how many automated controls you set up. Growing in a greenhouse is a long-term investment of time and money and even the few growers that profit heavily will tell you that it’s often harder than it’s worth. MY

GREEN THUMB GaRDENING

Water Culture SyStemS GreenhouSe in the

by Stephen Keen

One of the joys of greenhouse gardening is it accommodates so many styles of gardening. The types and numbers of plants that will thrive in a greenhouse environment are nearly endless, as are the gardening methods we can use. One option that has grown in popularity in indoor gardening—but also works beautifully in a greenhouse environment—is a water culture (WC) system. If you’re not familiar with the concept, WC is a method of gardening whereby the plant roots are constantly submerged in a highly-oxygenated,

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constantly circulated and temperaturecontrolled nutrient system. Using this method, plants tend not only to thrive, but to explode with growth. The high levels of dissolved oxygen in the water allow the roots access to air, which is why they can be constantly submerged without adverse effects. The reason the WC method is so successful for growing enormous and healthy plants is because, since the roots are constantly submerged in the nutrient solution, they are able to constantly uptake water and nutrient, keeping them hydrated and fed 100 per cent of the time. The circulation and oxygenation of the water keeps the mineral salts in the nutrient solution from building up, which allows the plants even more access to nutrient. The result is a much larger plant than traditional soil or hydroponic methods typically yield, which

then produces a larger per-plant harvest than typical of more traditional methods. WC gardening is also a very environmentally-friendly way to garden, as there is no need to dispose of the water being used during the harvest cycle. In traditional hydroponic applications, nutrient water is typically discarded and replaced every couple of weeks, whereas with a WC, the only water being used is the water the plants are uptaking and transpiring. Top-offs to the system are necessary because of what the plants consume, but it’s rarely necessary to discard and replace the nutrient water altogether until after a harvest is completed. Complete WC systems are available on any size scale; just check with your local gardening store if you’re interested in exploring this type of growing system. Be aware that the constant introduction of oxygen and proper water circulation through the system is extremely important, and systems that you purchase should always include the correct water and air pumps for the size of system that you choose. Equally important to a WC system is a properly sized chiller. For a WC system

that you’re chilling isn’t what’s important; the amount of heat being introduced into the water is what’s important when you’re choosing a chiller. Insulating the reservoirs in a WC system will reduce the amount of heat that they can absorb from their environment, so this is strongly recommended to reduce the energy consumed by your chiller. Simple radiant barrier bubble wrap and zip ties do the trick nicely. The most accurate way WC system in a greenhouse at University of California, Davis to size your to work properly, nutrient temperature chiller is with a simple BTU test. To do must be maintained at approximately this, during the hottest part of the day, 65 to 68°F. Most greenhouses are measure the temperature of the water in much warmer than this, especially in your system, wait one hour and measure the summer, so a water chiller must the temperature of the water again. be employed to maintain the proper Subtract the high temperature from the nutrient temperature. Chillers are low temperature—this is your differential. available at hydroponics stores with Multiply the number of gallons in your simple gallon ratings, but these are not system by 8.35, and multiply that number always accurate. The number of gallons by your differential. The result is the

total number of BTUs per hour that your chiller will need to be capable of removing. Most small gardens will need a chiller ranging from ¼ HP up to two HP, depending on the size of the system, but some commercial gardens will need an industrial-sized chiller. Luckily, either option is available through most local hydroponics retailers. Also available are simple stainless steel coils, which are submerged in the nutrient solution and through which cold water circulates, which enables you to cool multiple systems utilizing a single chiller. This is a very energy efficient and money saving option.You can take the energy efficiency even further if you’re using an evaporative cooling system in your greenhouse by dropping one of these coils in the reservoir for your evaporative cooling system, so the chiller will be cooling your nutrients and adding cooling to the greenhouse itself, all with very little consumption of power. MY

About the Author: Stephen Keen has been an indoor gardening hobbyist for nearly 10 years. The hot summers in Texas led him to start experimenting with different equipment and alternative ways to cool the garden. His personal successes with his garden led him to want to bring new ideas, mainly watercooling, to the mainstream, which led to the founding of Hydro Innovations. He tries to educate as many growers as possible any way he can about the benefits of new ideas and how to be effective at controlling heat in indoor gardens.

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10 facts On…Photosynthesis by Philip mcintosh

The word photosynthesis comes from the Greek words photo, meaning “light,” and synthesis meaning "putting

together." Joseph Priestley, discoverer of oxygen, obtained a hint of photosynthesis in 1793 when he noticed that a candle sealed in a jar with a plant burned longer that it did without the plant.

In the 1940s, American scientist Melvin Calvin began intensive study of photosynthesis. It took Calvin and his colleagues until 1957 before they had the biochemistry of photosynthesis fully worked out.

For that effort, Calvin was awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 1961.

Since plants are able to make their own food using photosynthesis, they are the primary producers at the base of many food chains on planet Earth.

Speaking of food, did you know that "plant food" you buy in a store is nothing of the kind? Plant food is glucose made by the photosynthesis using energy from the sun and the raw materials carbon dioxide and water.

It is largely due to its role in powering photosynthesis that the sun is considered the primary source of all energy on the Earth.

Plants aren't the only photosynthesizers out there—algae, which are not usually classified in the plant kingdom these days, and some bacteria do it too. There is still much to learn. In 2008, researchers from Carnegie Institution for Science reported a new type of bacterial photosynthesis that produces less oxygen than the standard variety. MY

YOU TELL US

Matthew Chana of Method Seven Optics examines why our eyes need protection in the grow room and how grow roomspecific optics can help in other ways, and add color to your world.

Mathew Chana

Maximum Yield (M Y): What kinds of products do you manufacture? Matthew Chana: Method Seven manufactures precision optics growers can use in and out of the grow room. We’re out to save your eyes from UV rays while balancing grow room lights. See your plants like never before. MY: Why is the technology used in your products of special interest to indoor growers? 174

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Matthew: Over time, exposure to UV light causes cumulative damage to your eyes—like getting a little sunburn to your retina every time you are in the grow room. We all worry about our skin; it’s time to start paying attention to our eyes. Not seeing your plants in true color due to grow room lighting is a terrible way to work. It’s more difficult to spot pathogens, problems, pH readers, etc. We’ve solved these problems with our optics—your eyes are protected and you can see your plants in perfect color.

MY: How long has the concept of using special lenses to see more effectively under grow lights been around? Is this a new idea? Did the technology come from another field? Matthew: The idea is new, and it comes straight from the grow room. Growers haven’t had a solution specific to their work, nor have they experienced perfect color, complete safety and, thus, true comfort. Until now, they have been using welding goggles, generic safety goggles, sunglasses—none of which were designed just for grower and the harsh conditions. The idea for this technology came from Jeff Goldberg, a professional photographer. He struggled to capture natural colors in the grow room, and working in the environment he developed a series of filters he would use while taking photos. A light went off as they say and Jeff created a special lens for growers. From there, the company was formed and a proof of concept was created. We’ve been set on our mission to deliver premium grow room optics ever since. MY: How did your business get started? Can you tell us something about the people behind the company?

Matthew: Starting a business from scratch isn’t easy. Jeff, our CTO, met with some friends, one of which happens to be our marketing guy. They hashed a plan and with the help of an investor started the business. There are four principal owners of the business, all very experienced in their respective roles. Jeff, our chief technology strategist, has an extensive photography background both in and out of the grow industry. James, our CEO, has a great record of running companies with unique products. Our CFO, Barry, is a professor of business and engineering at SF state. Finally, Ian has experience in commercial production and marketing. We all love innovating and making products that are best-in-class. MY: Where do you manufacture your products?

of new products, many of which will debut this year. Mum is the word for now but expect exciting new releases from us in the future. Keep an eye on MethodSeven.com or Facebook.com/MethodSeven

Matthew: Our proprietary lens—we call it The Rendition— is melted in Germany. The frames are made and then assembled into glasses in Italy. Final inspection and shipping is completed in Santa Cruz, California. MY: Do you have any crazy new products coming out we should know about? Matthew: We have engineers and designers working on a host

MY: Do you have plans for world domination? Do you have plans to expand into other markets? Matthew: The response to our product has been quite good and the need for it extends universally across cultures. At the moment we’re starting to expand our reach to different markets. We believe products that serve the hydroponics space are needed worldwide and in time we hope to sell them to every country in the world. But, domination? That’s for Dr. No. MY

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TALKING SHOP

at a GlanCe Company: indoor Grow source Owners: dave sanders, steve stawicki and Cannon McCarter Location: 57 California ave. pleasanton, Ca Phone: 1-925-426-GroW (4769) E-mail: info@indoorgrowsource.com Website: indoorGrowsource.com

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From left: David "Rip" Scott, Dave Sanders, Steve Stawicki, Cannon "Frog" McCarter

Running a web-based hydroponics business before he had a bricks-and-mortar location helped Dave Sanders realize that customers still really need to touch and see the products, talk to people in the shop and be provided with informed advice to be successful and feel comfortable… Although most people get started in retail hydroponics by opening a shop and then getting around to starting up a web-based business, Dave Sanders of Indoor Grow Source did things a little differently, starting his career in the hydro biz by selling products and equipment online to gardeners across North America before he ever thought of opening a store. Dave’s two childhood friends liked what he was doing and jumped on-board and they’ve been working together ever since, finally opening a retail location in 2011. “We all grew up together in the small town of Discovery Bay, California,” Dave tells us. “We have been friends for over 20 years and have worked together on many different projects over the years. About a year and a half before opening this store, though, I first built indoorgrowsource.com, where I supplied gardening products to people all over the United States and Canada as well as providing consulting services for growers of all levels.” Once Dave got through college he was happy to discover that he wasn’t the only

one interested in horticulture—his childhood buddies still had the growing bug and they were looking to get involved in this fast-growth business too. “I spent my college days focusing on business and biology course work, where I was strongly drawn to plant science and horticulture,” Dave explains. “I spent a lot of time in my local hydroponics stores with owners and employees discussing the current technologies of indoor gardening. Steve, Cannon and I had been experimenting with and mastering different methods of hydroponic gardening for over 12 years at that time and it was just natural that we should turn our favorite hobby into a career. Like Confucius said, ‘Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life’— and that’s exactly what we are doing!” It all started in Dave’s living room. “In 2010, I built indoorgrowsource.com in my living room in Watsonville, California,” Dave says. “I am in no way a website developer, so this was a learning experience in itself. In the beginning it was just me—I operated the website, filled

customer orders with my distributors, managed the advertising campaigns and assisted clients with the set-up and use of their gardening equipment and supplies.” Dave quickly learned that going ‘webonly’ had its drawbacks. “Being a web-only business at first, it was tough to obtain accounts with some large distributors of hydroponics products who only supply equipment to brick-and-mortar shops. Also, my local clients often wanted a place to get handson service and I unfortunately could not provide them with that at the time.” Everything changed when Dave partnered up with his old friends Steve and Cannon to open a retail outlet, though. “I had been selling online and utilizing the help of my distributors to fill and ship my orders, so I had no need to keep inventory— nor did I need to know which and how many of each product to order until we opened the store. At that point, knowing what to stock became of great importance.” Dave, Steve and Cannon found a nice location in Pleasanton, California and opened the retail location they now realized was the perfect complement to Dave’s already flourishing online store. The guys quickly figured out that being able to show customers what the products they were purchasing could do was the best possible sales tool. “We can give our customers a hands-on experience,” explains Dave. “Although we still distribute our products to all of North America, our local clients can

From the outside looking in to the garden.

Owners Dave Sanders, Steve Stawicki and Cannon "Frog" McCarter working in the garden.

come learn the ins and outs of growing indoors right here at our store. We have a display room where we grow a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers and carnivorous plants, including ice cream bananas, Bhut Jolokia ‘ghost peppers,’ many varieties of strawberries and pitcher plants. This working display allows us to give our customers ideas for their own garden set-ups. We also include a side-by-side comparison of two identical flood trays that each use different nutrient regimens in order to test the strengths and weaknesses of certain fertilizers against others.” “Our extensive experience gardening indoors has included its fair share of trial and error,” he continues, “that we pass on to our customers, so that they can expect success the first time and every time. When new growers come to us for help setting up and operating their gardens, we make sure they get everything they need to succeed—and nothing they don’t.” And it’s ultimately all about that for Dave and his two partners—keeping the customers happy, constantly educating them and continuing to grow the business. “Our company philosophy has been and always will be geared around the success of our customers,” says Dave. “We’ve done the research—both in the books and in the garden—so our customers can be educated and have

Dave Sanders demonstrating the effect of one of our Cape Sundews on little flying insects!

successful gardens when they shop with us. We love gardening and that’s why we started this business, but hearing the success stories of our customers has been the icing on the cake—nothing about this business brings us more joy! We’ve all seen many people get into this industry for one reason—to make money—and that is a recipe for failure. Although it’s a quickly growing industry with huge potential for growth this is still a niche industry and it requires constant customer education. Regardless of how many stores open nearby or on the web, there will always be a market for growers who need real, unbiased advice from other experienced growers. When our customers are successful, we are successful.”MY Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

177

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Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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COMING UP IN JUNE

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

ALABAMA Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Road, Hammondville, AL 35989 256-635-0802 ALASKA Brown’s Electrical Supply 365 Industrial Way, Anchorage, AK 99501 907-272-2259 Far North Garden Supply 2834 Boniface Parkway Anchorage, AK 99504 907-333-3141 Southside Garden Supply AK 12870 Old Seward Highway, Unit 114, Anchorage, AK 99515 907-339-9997 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733 Ground Control Landscape ServicesHydroponic & Garden Supplies 1067 Ocean Dr. Homer, Alaska 99603 907-235-1521 Northern Lights Greenhouse & Garden Supply Suite 105-9737 Mud Bay Road Ketchikan, Alaska 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 USA 479 631 0099 Peninsula Garden Supply AK 44224 Sterling Highway, Suite 4, Soldotna, AK 99669 907-420-0401 Far North Garden Supply 300 Centaur Street, Wasilla, AK 99654 907-376-7586 ARIZONA Sea of Green Flagstaff 204-C E. Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-774-SOGF(7643) The Hydro Closet 5826 West Olive Avenue #106 Glendale, Arizona 85302 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 Road, Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 85023 602-504-8842 ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane, Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137 Homegrown Hydroponics 601 East Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Sea of Green Hydroponics 1301 E. University Dr. Tempe AZ, 85281 800-266-4136

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

Tucson Hydroponics & Organics 4235 W. Ina Road Ste. 131 Tucson, AZ 85741 520-395-2052 ____________________________ ARKANSAS Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Highway 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955 Growfresh Organics & More 2900 Zero St, Ste 106 Fort Smith, AR 72901 479-648-8885 Fermentables 3915 Crutcher Street, N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261 Anuway Hydroponics 2711 W. Walnut Street, Rogers, Arkansas 72756 479-631-0099 CALIFORNIA ____________________________

Greenleaf Hydroponics 1839 W Lincoln Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92801 714-254-0005 ____________________________ Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Drive, Suite L, Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Road, #7 Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090 American Hydroponics 286 South G Street, Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Humboldt Hydroponics 601 I Street, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-3377 Let it Grow 160 Westwood Center, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-8733 ____________________________

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

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 Highway, Auburn, CA 95602 530-823-8900 High Street Hydro 180 Cleveland Avenue, Auburn, CA 95603 530-885-5888 Quail Mountain Ranch 230 Palm Ave, Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-2390 Tell 2 Friends Indoor Gardening 62 Sutherland Drive, Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-8171 Bakersfield Hydroponics Bakersfield , CA 1 (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 Road Bakersfield, CA 661-399-3336 ____________________________ Better Grow Hydro Los Angeles 5554 Bandini Boulevard, Bell, CA 91106 323-510-2700; 877 640 GROW Super Starts PO Box 732, Bellmont, CA 94002 650-346-8009 Berkeley Indoor Garden 844 University Avenue Berkeley, CA 94710 510-549-2918 Berkeley’s Secret Garden 921 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94710, 510-486-0117 Hydroponic Connection, The 2816 San Pablo Ave Berkeley, CA 94702 510 704-9376 Brentwood Hydroponics & Organics 560 Valdry Ct #85, Brentwood, CA 94513 925-634-6704 Good To Grow & Global Garden Supply 1350 Rollins Rd, Burlingame, CA, 94010 (650) 733-4420 Advanced Garden Supply 3113 Alhambra Drive, Unit F, Cameron Park, CA 95682, 530-676-2100 Precision Hydroponics 132 Kennedy Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008 408-866-8176

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

San Diego Hydroponics North County Coastal 6352 Corte Del Abeto #J Carlsbad CA, 92011 760-420-8934 ____________________________ The Greenhouse Garden Supply 7619 Fair Oak Blvd. Carmichael, CA 95608 1 (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 Drive, Clearlake, CA 95422 707-994 3264 Under The Sun 12638 Foothill Boulevard, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423 707-998-GROW (4769) ____________________________

Gro More Garden Supply 2937 Larkin Avenue, Clovis, CA 93021 559-348-1055 ____________________________ G & G Organics and Hydroponics 901 W. Victoria Street Unit D, Compton, CA 90220 310-632-0122 Concord Indoor Garden 2771 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Avenue, Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth Street, #211, Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 The Hydro Spot 21785 Temescal Cyn Rd Corona Ca, 92883

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

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1070 Highway 101, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-1200 ____________________________ Seaside Hydrogarden 1070 Highway 101 North, Crescent City, CA 95531; 707-465-3520 Pacific Coast Hydroponics 4147 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230 310-313-1354 Dr. Greenthumbs Hydroponic Garden Supplies 566 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Danville, CA 94526; 925-314-9376 Constantly Growing - Davis 123 D Street, Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774 Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Drive, Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710 Harvest Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way Suite B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 Victory Garden Supply 1900 N Lincoln St #100 Dixon CA 95620 707 678 5800 ____________________________

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

A Fertile World (Eureka) 6th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-0200 ____________________________ Bayside Garden Supply 4061 Highway 101 Ste 6 Eureka, CA 95503 1 (707) 826-7435 Humboldt Hydroponics 1302 Union Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-4304

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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Northcoast Horticulture Supply 60 West 4th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 ____________________________ Constantly Growing 4343 Hazel Avenue, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043 Fallbrook Hydro 208 E Mission Rd Ste B Fallbrook CA 92028 1 (760) 728-4769 ____________________________

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

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

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

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 357 Main Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-5550 ____________________________ Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41469 Albrae Street, Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 ____________________________

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

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Tower Garden Supply & Organic Nursery 403 W. Olive Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728 559-495-1140 Valley Hydroponics 207 E. Sierra Ave. Fresno, CA 93710; 559-449-0426 Grow Wurks Hydroponics 765 S. State College Boulevard. Suite J Fullerton, CA 92831 714-253-Grow (4769) SB Hydro 1109 W. 190th Street, Unit #F, Gardena, CA 90248 310-538-5788 Golden Gecko Garden Center, The 4665 Marshall Road, Garden Valley, CA 95633 530-333-2394 Probiotic Solutions 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, CA 95441 707-354-4342 South Valley Hydroponics 320 Kishimura Drive, #3 Gilroy, CA 95020 1-866-848-GROW ____________________________

Zen Hydroponics 1801 Victory Blvd. Glendale, CA 91201 877 ZEN Grow; 818 806 4500 ____________________________

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

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

Vital Landscaping Inc. 12817 Loma Rica Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-273-3187 ____________________________ West Coast Growers Hydroponics 13481 Colifax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 95945 888-924-4769 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 | May 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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

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

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

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

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

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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 Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-627-5636 ____________________________ Grow Light Express 5318 East Second Street suite 164, Long Beach, CA 90803 888-318-GROW ____________________________

Long Beach Hydroponics & Organics 1772 Clark Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-498-9525 ____________________________ Atwater Hydroponics 3350 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039; 323-663-8881 Green Door Hydro and Solar 830 Traction Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90013 212-625-1323 Hardman Hydroponics 3511 Youree Dr., Shreveport Los Angeles 71105 318-865-0317 Hollywood Hydroponics and Organics 5109 1/2 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027-6105 323-662-1908 Hydroasis 2643 S. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90232 888-355-4769 LAX Hydro 10912 S. La Cienaga Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90304; 310-337-6995 Nirvana Hydroponics 340 South San Pedro Los Angeles, CA 90013; 310-795-2914 ____________________________

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

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 Road Lower Lake, CA 95457 707 994 1788 California Green Hydroponics 16491 Road 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 Avenue Suite 7A, Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba Street, Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 ____________________________

Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1580 Nursery Way McKinleyville, CA 95519 707-839-9998 ____________________________ Mendocino Garden Shop PO Box 1301, 44720 Maint Street (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 Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-380-3840 Mission Viejo Hydroponics 24002 Via Fabricante Suite 502 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-380-1894 Coca’s Central Valley Hydroponics 116 West Orangeburg Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350 209-567-0590 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 Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070

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

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

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

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

Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084 Cultivate Ontario 2000 Grove Ave #a110 Ontario, CA 91761 909-781-6142 Flairform 1751 S Pointe Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761 213-596-8820 GreenCoast Ontario Unit 102-103 1920 South Rochester Avenue Ontario, CA 1 (909) 605-5777 ____________________________

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

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

Green Coast Hydroponics 496 Meats Avenue Orange, CA 92865 714-974-4769 ____________________________ Natural Pest Controls 8320 B Hazel Avenue, Orangevale, CA 95662 916-726-0855 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 Street, Oroville, CA 95965 530-534-4476 Orville Organic Gardens 5250 Olive Hwy Ste 1 Oroville, CA 95966 530-589-9950 US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086

Pacifica Hydroponics 90 Eureka Square Pacifica, CA 94044

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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 Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-ROOT ____________________________

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

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 Street, Parablossom, CA 93553 661-944-2226 Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO Better Grow Hydro Pasadena 1271 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasedena, CA 91106 626 737 6612

House of Hydro 224 Weller Street, #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 Avenue, Pinole, CA 94564 510-724-1291 Hillside Hydro & Garden 4570 Pleasant Valley Road Placerville CA 95662 530-644-1401 Best Yield Garden Supply 3503 West Temple Avenue, Unit A, Pomona, CA 91768 909-839-0505 Mission Hydroponics 1236 East Mission Pomona CA 91766 (909) 620 7099 Emerald Garden 8249 Archibald Avenue, 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, AB 90277 1 (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 Drive, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002

365 Hydroponics 2062 Lincoln Ave Pasadena, CA 91103 1 (626) 345-9015

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

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

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

Foothills Hydrogarden 3133 Penryn Road, Penryn, CA 95663 916-270-2413

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

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

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

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

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

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

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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

KY Wholesale 8671 Elder creek Rd. #600 Sacramento, CA 95828 916 383 3366 ____________________________ Mystic Gardens 8484 Florin Road, #110, Sacramento, CA 95828 916-381-2464 Sac Hydroponics 9529 Folson Boulevard, Suite C Sacramento, CA 95827 916-369-7968 Skywide Import & Export Ltd. 5900 Lemon Hill Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95824 916-383-2369 Tradewinds Wholesale Garden Supplies 1235 Striker Avenue #180, Sacramento, CA 95834 888-557-8896 Green 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 Avenue Suite C, San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Avenue, San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358 Green Lady Hydroponics 4879 Newport Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107 619-222-5011 Home Brews & Gardens 3176 Thorn St San Diego, CA 92104 619 630 2739 ____________________________

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

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

Reforestation Technologies International 1341 Daton Street, 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 Street , Bldg. 1, Samoa, CA 95564 800-683-1114 (Northern CA) ____________________________ Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. Street, Suite D, San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919 Garden 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 Avenue, 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 Street, San Francisco, CA 94116 415-731-2115 ____________________________ Hydroponic Connection Warehouse, The 1995 Evans Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94124 415-824-9376 Nor Cal Hydroponics 4837 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118 415-933-8262 Plant It Earth 2279 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94114 415-626-5082 ____________________________ UrbanGardens advanced hydroponics and gardening

704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Miramar Hydroponics & Organics 8952 Empire Street San Diego CA 92126 858-549-8649 ____________________________

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

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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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

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

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

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

Urban Grow Systems 204 N Quarantine Street Santa Barbara, CA 93103 1 (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 Street, Suite C Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-423-4769 Hydro-Logic Purification Systems 370 Encinal St, Suite 150, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 888 H2O LOGIC Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - West Side 815 Almar Avenue, Unit K, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-9000 Gottagrow Garden Supply 769 Wilson Street, 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 Road, Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Gardening Unlimited 60 Old El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-457-1236 Pro Gardening Systems 765 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-7252 Better Choice Hydroponics 610 S. Washington Street, Senora, CA 95370 209 533 2400 Go Big Hydroponics 4501 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-789-3341 Bloom Brothers Garden Supply, Inc. 3293 Industry Dr. Signal Hill, CA 90755 562 494-0060 We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 Abundant Hydroponics LLC 1611 Shop Street, #1-A, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-54 HYDRO ____________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home Life Hydroponics and Organics 1745 East Vista Way, Vista, CA 92084 760-643-2150 ____________________________

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

Specialty Garden Center 1970 East Vista Way, Suite 10, Vista, CA 92084 760-758-4769 ____________________________ 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 1 (530) 623-2884 California Hydro Garden 1043 South Glendora Avenue, Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874 Hydronation 2491 Boatman Drive, Suite B West Sacramento, CA 95691 916-372-4444

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) ____________________________

Green Coast Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard Whittier, CA 90601 562-699-4201 ____________________________ GreenWay Hydroponics 11510 Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90601

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

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

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 ____________________________

Polar Ray 5171 Eldorado Springs Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 303 494 5773 High Tech Garden Supply 5275 Quebec St. Commerce City, CO 80022 720-222-0772

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

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N-BR Y-

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

Golden Valley Hydroponics 870 W. Onsott Rd. Ste F Yuba City, CA 95993 (530) 763-2151

Flower Hut Nursery 603 4th Street Wheatland, CA 95692 530-633-4526 ____________________________

Lazy Gardeners Hydroponics ‘N’ More 14626 East Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90605 562-945-0909 Stop N Grow 4160 Market Street, Unit 11 Ventura, CA 93003 805-639-9489 ____________________________

Garden Highway Garden Supply 598 Garden Highway #22 Yuba City, CA 95991 530-755-2877

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Art of Hydro 2636 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 805-230-2227 ____________________________ Green Thumb Lighting & Garden 1647 W. Sepulveda Boulevard, Unit 5, Torrance, CA 90501 888-326-GROW

Los Angeles Hydroponics and Organics 3007-3009 W. Artesia Blvd. Torrance, CA 90504 310-323-4937 Anything Grows 10607 W. River Street, Building 3 Suite C, Truckee, CA 96161 530-582-0479 Hooked Up Hydroponics 339 S. Golden State Boulevard, Turlock, CA 95380 209-668-1300 Emerald Garden 307 East Perkins Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-463-2510 ____________________________

ROC K

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I F E R, C

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

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189

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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

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

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

Chlorophyll 3801 Mariposa St. Denver CO 80211 303-433-1155 ____________________________ Denver Hydroponic & Organic Center 6810 North Broadway, Unit D Denver, CO 80221 303-650-0091 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 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

190

Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769 ____________________________

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

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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

____________________________

Victory Hydro Gardening 1387 E. South Boulder Rd. Louisville, CO, 80027 Tel: 303-664-9376 ____________________________ Lyons Indoor Gardening 138 Main Street, Lyons, CO 80540 720-530-3828 Head Start Hydroponics & Organic Gardening Emporium 34500 US Highway 6, Unit B-9, North Edwards, CO 81632 970-569-313 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 ____________________________

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

Hydroponics International Inc. 7029-10 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32220 904-693-6554 ____________________________

FLORIDA ____________________________

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

East Coast Hydroponics & Organics 461 Forrest Avenue, Suite 105 Coca, FL 32922 321-243-6800 ____________________________ GreenTouch Hydroponics Inc. 5011 S State Road 7, Suite 104 Davie, FL 33314 954-316-8815 Absolute Hydroponic Garden Center Inc 1607 Old Daytona Steet Deland, FL 32724 386-734-0696 Organic Grow Hut 2 780 Deltona Blvd. #107 Deltona, Florida 32725 1-888-574-grow 386-259-5777 Gold Coast Hydroponics 1539 SW 21st Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 1-800-780-7371 ____________________________

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

Florida Garden Supplies 2692 W 79 Street, Hialeah, FL 33016 1-800-931-5215 ____________________________ Hydro Terra Corp. 924 North Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020 954-920-0889 Simply Hydroponics & Organics (North) 3642 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34448 352-628-2655

Grower’s Choice & Hydroponics 11855 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32218 904-683-4517 ____________________________ Urban Organics & Hydroponics 5325 Fairmont Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-398-8012 Simply Hydroponics & Organics 7949 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33773 727-531-5355 GrowSmart Indoor Garden Centers 14587 Southern Boulevard, Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-429-3527 Palm Beach Discount Hydroponics – West 14703 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561 296 8555 Atlantic Hydroponics 430 Count Street, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-1535 ____________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inc.

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

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

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

Atlantis Hydroponics 1422 Woodmont Lane, #4, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-367-0052 ____________________________ Flora Hydroponics, Inc. 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 ____________________________

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 1 (815) 301-4950

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

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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 Maximum Grow Gardening 6117 E Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-359-GROW (4769)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

191

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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 LOUISIANA Geaux Hydroponics! 2126 O’Neal Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225-751-4769 Laughing Buddha Nursery 4516 Clearview Parkway, Metairie, LA 70006 504-887-4336 Urban Organics 285 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70117 504-352-4709 Ourcrazydeals Hydroponics 201 Angus Drive, Yungsville, LA 70592 337-303-6146 MAINE The Urban Garden Center 600 Wilson St. Brewer, ME 04412 1-207-989-2020 LiquidSun of Maine 51West Gray Rd. Gray, ME 04039 207-657-8033

192

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 Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Road, Topsham, ME 04086 207-373-0990 Greenlife Garden Supply 611 US Rt. 1 York, ME 03909 207-363-0844 MARYLAND East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd Street, Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-9236 Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Road, Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 12130 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852 240-551-4625 Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901 MASSACHUSETTS Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Road, Unit 4, Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966 GYOstuff – Grow Your Own 2400 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02140 617-945-1654 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 29 Washington Street, Route 1 Foxboro, MA 02035 800-660-6977 Here We Grow 123 Russell St. (Rt. 9) Hadley, MA 01035 413-584-FARM (3276)

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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 ____________________________

Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 6540 Allen Road, Allen Park, MI 48101 313-383-1766 ____________________________

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

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

Hydro Giant 14455 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI ____________________________

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

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

____________________________

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 ____________________________

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

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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 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 ___________________________

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

____________________________

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

High Tech Garden Supply 7889 Telegraph Road. Taylor, MI 48180 313-908-7554 ____________________________ Hydro Grow, The 8210 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI 48180 313-633-0641 Great Lakes Green Horticultural Supply 757 S. U.S. Highway 131 Three Rivers, MI 49093 269-278-130 Grow Store, The 90 N U.S. Highway 31 South , Traverse City, MI 49685-7923 231-421-5191 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 ___________________________ Bubonic Hydroponics 38540 Michigan Ave Wayne MI, 48184 734.331.2316 ___________________________

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

___________________________

Eden Indoor Organic Gardens 831 Highway 75 North Moorhead, MN 56560 218-477-EDEN (3336) ____________________________

Indoor Eden 11090 Hi Tech Dr. Whitmore lake MI 48189 810-355-1465 ____________________________

Synthetic Sun Hydroponics, LLC 3218 W. Houghton Avenue West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-8800 ____________________________ G.C. II Whitehall, MI 49461 231-893-2400 G.C. II 1006 E. Colby St. Suite A Whitehall, MI 49417 231-893-2400 AAA Hydroponics LLC 22 50th Street Wyoming, MI 49504 616-249-8338 ____________________________

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

Stealth Hydro 15 E. Cross Street, Ypsilanti, MI 48198 866-998-1916 ____________________________ MINNESOTA Duluth Hydroponics 26 W 1st Street Duluth, MN 55802 218-341-7253 ____________________________

Indoor Gardening 10 NE 3rd Street, Faribault, MN 55021 507-209-1546 ___________________________ Brew and Grow 8302 Highway 65 NE., Minneapolis, MN 55432 763-780-8191 Interior Gardens 115 -1620 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 800-498-4178; 612-870-9077 ____________________________

Midwest Hydroponics 5825 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park,MN 55416 888-449-2739 ____________________________

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

Let It Grow - Girardeau 879 S. Kings Highway, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 573-803-0628 ____________________________

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 ____________________________ Grow Your Own Hydroponics 3617 Saint John Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-241-2122 New England Horticulture Supply 125 john roberts road suite 1 south portland maine 04106 207-899-0510 newenglandhorticultersupply.com ____________________________

Let It Grow - Springfield 2519 E. Kearney Street, Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-GROW ____________________________

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

193

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

U-Grow 1724 North, 13th Street, St. Louis, MO 63106 314-452-6368 ____________________________

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

____________________________

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) ____________________________ Beste's Indoor/Outdoor Garden Supply 21410 Schoenherr Warren, MI 48089 586 776-1794 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

194

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 P.O 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 1 (603) 204-5528

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

INC.

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 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 ____________________________

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 ___________________________

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

Aqua Serene 465 Applegate Way, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-7600 ____________________________

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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 ____________________________

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Indoor Garden Depot 15828 SE McGloughlin Boulevard, Milwaukie, OR 97267 503-786-2445 ____________________________ H2organic LCC 620 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503-434-6107 ____________________________

Wizard’s Garden, LLC 621 Spruce Street, Unit C, Myrtle Point, OR 97458 541-572-2333 ____________________________ Green Zone Garden Center & Hydroponic Supplies 454 S.W. Coast Hwy Newport OR 97365 USA P: 541-265-8252 ____________________________

Garden Supplies

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 1-877-893-0716 Greenleaf Hydroponics 1805 Elm Road, Warren, OH 44483 330-372-1039 Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, West Carrolton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 Harvest Moon 9215 Market Street, Youngstown (North Lima), OH 44452 800-776-8399 Indoor Garden Worx 906 Blue Avenue, Zanesville, OH 43701 866-900-9679

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 ____________________________

Oregon Rainforest Co. 19949 E. Burnside Street, Gresham, OR 97233503-465-9909 ____________________________

In & Out Gardens 93484 Hwy 99 South Junctin City OR 97448 541-234-2342 ____________________________ Basin Indoor Gardening 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 ____________________________

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

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 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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

195

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

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 ___________________________

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

196

Retail Stores listed alphabetically by city in each state.

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PA Hydroponics & Home Gardening Supply 20 Quaker Church Road, York Springs, PA 17372 717-528-4175

The Companion Plant 363 E. Main St Kutztown, PA 19530 1 (610) 683-9676 ____________________________ Flairform POB 1417, Lansdale, PA 19446 215-395-6353 ____________________________

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

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 1 (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 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) ____________________________

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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 ____________________________

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

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All Season Hydroponics 1350 Hwy. 501 Business, Store 3&4 Conway, SC 29526 843-347-9266 ____________________________ Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830 ____________________________

Greenspirit Hydrogardens 3600 Unite 1 Hwy.17 S. North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 843-361-7777 ____________________________ SOUTH DAKOTA

Green Earth Products Inc. 5700 Highway 79 S.,Unit 1, Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-1307 ____________________________ TENNESSEE Innovative Hydroponic Supply Inc. 3286 North Park Blvd. Unit G Alcoa TN 37701 865 984 0280 Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643 Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Drive, Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391 Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Highway, Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318 Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Road, Suite 104, Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale/ Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005 ____________________________ All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188 ____________________________

Worm’s Way Tennessee 901 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37072 800-397-4153 ____________________________ TEXAS Abundant Harvest Hydroponics & Organics 3101 Avenue E East, 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 9700 Almeda Genoa Road, Suite 108, Houston, TX 77075 281-501-9636 In-N-Out Garden Supply 11011 S Wilcrest Drive Ste K Houston, TX 77099 1 (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 ____________________________

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 ____________________________

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

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 ___________________________

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 ___________________________

Indoor Garden & Lighting 8606 Preston Fall City Rd. SE Preston WA 98050 425 222 9661 ___________________________ Linda’s Gardening & Hydroponics 11522 Canyon Road East, Puyallup, WA 98373 253-531-9641

Renton Indoor Garden Center 207 Sunset Blvd. N, Building A, Renton, WA 98055 425-917-9000 Eco Enterprises 1240 NE 175th Street, #B Shoreline, WA 98155 800-426-6937 ____________________________

Aqua Serene 3839 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-GROW (4769) ___________________________ Grogro Hydro 12316 32nd AVE NE #103 Seattle, WA 98125 Hydro-Tech 2121 Aurora Avenue, North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-2202 ___________________________

Sodo Hydro 1727 1st Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98134 206-682-9377 888-90HYDRO (904-9376) __________________________ Northwest Horticulture Supply 161 Hooker Road, #1, Sequim, WA 98057 360-582-0702 509 Grow 2718 N Division Spokane, WA 99207 509-327-GROW(4769) Grow Center, The 2808 W Sprague Spokane WA 99202 509-456-GROW River City Hydroponics 1514 East Francis Avenue, Spokane, WA 99208 509-464-0246 Spokane Organic and Hydroponic Supply 4823 East Sprague Avenue E., Spokane Valley, WA 99212 509-534-4055 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 ___________________________

___________________________

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 4525 NW Fruit Valley Road, Vancouver, WA 98660 888-478-6544 (Northwest) ____________________________

National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply 5408 NE 88th Street, Building A, Vancouver, WA 98665 888-478-6544 ____________________________

VM Indoor Garden Supply 2903 NE 109th Ave Ste. D Vancouver, WA 98682 P: (360) 256-2933 ____________________________ Indoor Garden Supply LLC 1250 Atlantic Ave, Woodland, WA 98674 360-841-8055 wISCONSIN ____________________________

Aric’s Indoor Garden Supply 1104 West Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton, WI 54914 920-574-3258 ____________________________ Grow BIG Hydroponics 954 S. Westland, Appleton, WI 54914 920-749-4769 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 1 (262) 717-0666 PUERTO RICO ____________________________

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

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

197

DO YOU KNOW?

Nutrient solutions should always be at 72°F, or slightly cooler.

Bacteria are tiny one-celled organisms—generally about 4/100,000s of an inch wide (one µm) and somewhat longer in length.

In the event of a pest or disease outbreak, a monoculture can be wiped out very quickly, while gardens containing a variety of different plants are more likely to survive a pest or disease outbreak.

a glass room connected to a residence is a conservatory, while a stand-alone structure of glass or transparent plastic is a greenhouse.

air conditioners are mainly used in cooler regions because in a high-heat environment an air conditioner isn’t very economical to run 24 hours a day in a greenhouse.

Often film coverings are manufactured with additives to prevent deterioration from ultraviolet radiation. These ‘Uv inhibitors’ are not put into the material in order to block plant-required Uv light, but to keep the material from degrading too quickly.

Before the 1950s, glasshouses were pretty much seen as small production units for the wealthy—who could afford to have personal gardeners growing out-of-season fruits and vegetables for their tables.

There are three soil temperature ranges within which microorganisms can grow and function, which divides microbes into three groups: psychrophiles, which grow at temperatures below 50°F, mesophiles, which thrive between 50 to 113°F and thermopiles, with an optimum temperature range between 113 and 140°F.

Condensation is one of the major threats to greenhouse crops—droplets falling onto plants create a level of leaf wetness, which allows many fungal and bacterial pathogens to aggressively attack, creating disease outbreaks that are often difficult to control as new infections can occur every night.

10.

If the CO2 in an enclosed environment gets used up by the plants and is not replenished, the plants’ ability to photosynthesize will be compromised—ventilation systems replace stale, CO2-depleted air with fresh air containing new CO2 for plants to process.

Full summer sunlight has approximately 400 to 450 watts of visible light and over 500 watts of infrared energy per 10 square feet.

12. 198

11.

If you don’t want to use a heater in your greenhouse you can run traditional Christmas lights around the greenhouse to add a little extra heat—if you use green or red lights you won’t disturb the darkness cycle of your plants’ photoperiod.

Maximum Yield USA | May 2012

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