Maximum Yield UK Mar/Apr 2013

UK March - April 2013

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6 ways plants move

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2013

Indoor gardenIng expo DENVER

COLORADO March 16-17

NOVI MICHIGAN June 1-2

SAN FRANCISCO

CALIFORNIA July 27-28

MaxIMuM YIeld’s

LONG BEACH

CALIFORNIA OcTOBer 26-27

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CONTENTS March/April 2013

FEATURES 64 42 30

Photosynthesis & Plant Nutrition

36

Six Ways Plants Move

by Bentley Mills

by Phillip McIntosh

42

Dissolving Oxygen

by Eric Hopper

46

Fertiliser – What’s For Dinner?

by Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr.

46 54 50

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30

50

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DEPARTMENTS 8

From the Editor

72

Talking Shop

10

MaximumYield.com

74

Max Mart

12

Letters to the Editor

77

Industry's Latest

14

Simon Says

78

Coming up Next Issue

16

MAX Facts

80

Distributors

20

Product Spotlight

70

You Tell Us

by Lee McCall

54

A Simple Guide to Taking Plant Cuttings

by Matt Lebannister

58

Snails: Pest, Predator & Food

by Donald Lester

62

The Secret to Well-Functioning pH Meters

by Beth Dumey & Steve Goldberg

64

Eco Coco

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

FROM THE EDITOR | LINDA JESSON

Spring is here, making it the perfect time to rev up your indoor garden! From starting plants from cuttings to making sure your plants are happily fed, to keeping those nasty pests away, this issue of Maximum Yield has everything you need. We also delve into the how the amount of oxygen in your nutrient solution or water to ensure your yields are maximised. Getting your garden off to the right start definitely has its advantages. Add some new products from our new product profile section to the mix and you are ready to go and grow!

We would like to take this time to welcome you to attend one of Maximum Yield’s 2013 Indoor Gardening Expos to see the newest and greatest products to help boost your garden! The first show is our 3rd annual Denver, Colorado, Indoor Gardening Expo– March 17, 2013. Check out indoorgardeningexpo.com for your special complimentary VIP pass, flight and accommodation specials and more to help you plan your 2013 vacation!

Be sure to look for Maximum Yield issues at upcoming UK and European garden shows.

We love our fans and want you to know it with our new I’m a Fan contest. Simply tell us why you are a Maximum Yield fan and we will put your name into a draw to win a monthly gift certificate of $100 USD to your favourite indoor gardening shop, with a chance to win the final grand prize of a $1,000 USD gift certificate—see page 12 for more details.

Message from the

Editor Linda Jesson

CONTRIBUTORS Matt LeBannister developed a

Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B.

Lee McCall is an alumnus of Johnson

Dr. J. Benton Jones Jr. has 50 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.

Eric Hopper has over 10 years of 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.

Beth Dumey is senior marketing communications specialist for Oakton Instruments. As a professional communicator, her articles have appeared in a variety of trade magazines, newsletters, and online venues. Visit www.4oakton.com

Philip McIntosh is a science and

Donald Lester is the product manager at JH Biotech, a commercial fertilizer manufacturer with 28 OMRI-certified organic products. Donald has a master’s degree in agronomy with over 10 years of agricultural research experience and 50 scientific publications to his credit. He is also director of SaferGro Laboratories, a home and garden products company located in Ventura, California.

Bentley Mills owns Georgia-based FloraHydroponics. He operates a one acre commercial hydroponic greenhouse where he grows produce using deep pool floating raft technology. Bentley’s background in horticulture began while managing Micro Macro International (MMI).

Bentley can be contacted at Bentley@florahydroponics.com

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.

technology writer with a bachelor’s degree in botany and chemistry and a master’s degree in biological science.

During his graduate research, he used hydroponic techniques to grow axenic plants. He lives in Colorado Springs, CO., where he teaches mathematics at Challenger Middle School.

Steven Goldberg is marketing

manager for Oakton Instruments and has more than 21 years experience both in the laboratory and marketing as well as developing laboratory instrumentation including pH meters.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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

& 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.

Become a Maximum Yield contributor and have your articles read by 475,000+ 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.

MARCH/APRIL 2013 Maximum Yield is published bi-monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

The views expressed by columnists are a personal Maximum Yield or the Editor.

Publication Agreement Number 40739092 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson EDITORIAL Editor Linda Jesson editor@maximumyield.com Assistant Editor Jessica Skelton jessica@maximumyield.com Assistant Editor Julie McManus julie@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES Sales Manager Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Account Executives Ashley Heppell - ashley@maximumyield.com Emily Rodgers - emily@maximumyield.com Kelsey Hepples - kelsey@maximumyield.com Katie Montague - katie@maximumyield.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION ads@maximumyield.com Art Director Alice Joe Graphic Designers Liz Johnston Jennifer Everts Dionne Hurd ACCOUNTING Tracy Greeno - accounting@maximumyield.com Tara Campbell - tara@maximumyield.com

UK DISTRIBUTION Direct Garden Supplies Dutchpro Future Harvest Developments Europe Growth Technology Hydrogarden Maxigrow Ltd. Nutriculture UK CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Quality Wholesale USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS General Hydroponics Humboldt Wholesale Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply Nickel City Wholesale Garden Supply R & M Supply Tradewinds AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Dome Garden Supply Futchatec Growth Technology Holland Forge House N Garden

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR GreetinGs,

One of the things I miss the most is picking up my copies [of Maximum Yield] at the local grow shop. I have learned so much from you over the years. When I come home in June, my first stop will be to grab the latest issue.

Thanks, David

Dear eDitor,

I absolutely love the vibrant colours and layout of this magazine. reading the articles and browsing the pics inspires me to design my own hydroponics set-up and learn more about the products that would make it the most efficient. Keep all the great tips and tricks coming!

Kristin

Hi, Max YielD,

We’re the owners of a new hydroponics store and we'd like to know how we could go about being listed as a distributor.

Thanks, Terry Hi, Terry, Simply give us a call at 1-250-729-2677 and speak with one of Maximum Yield’s sales associates. They have all the information you need!

i’M a Fan Winner announceD

Ike White from Eastsound, Washington, is the first winner of Maximum Yield’s I’m a Fan Contest!

Ike said, “I’m a huge fan of Maximum Yield! First off, the magazine looks great. I love your layouts, the cool (and often informative) ads and product reviews. I’m also a big fan of the quick little Max Facts and DIY projects.

“I always start by checking out the basic articles, then dive into the more tech/complex ones (like how light actually affects plants).

I’ve learned so much from reading your magazine, and have been really inspired to try new methods and products because of it. Thank you for putting out this amazing publication.”

Thanks for the kudos, Ike, and congratulations on winning ’s I’m a Fan contest!

Maximum Yield’s We hope you enjoy your $100 gift certificate at your favourite indoor gardening shop, Cascadia Garden Supply.

Would you like a chance to win Maximum Yield’s I’m a Fan contest? Tell us why you are a fan of Maximum Yield and you could win the monthly prize of $100 gift card to your favourite indoor gardening shop, and also have a chance at the grand prize of a $1,000 gift card to your favourite indoor gardening shop. Simply send your testimonial, name, address, phone number and email address to editor@maximumyield.com, or fill out the online form at maximumyield.com/imafan. Contest closes December 14, 2013.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

Dear eDitor,

I hope this reaches you. I’m not a very educated man. I never graduated secondary school and I never did anything very productive in life until I started in this new trend of growing a garden. It’s not a very big one—just a few herbs, veggies and things like that.

I’m 45 and knew not one thing (nOThInG lol) about gardening or plant life until I read your mag for the very first time (three years ago, I think). I’ve been an avid reader ever since and I can’t wait til each month’s new mag comes out [so I can get] it from one of the local hydro shops. Because of your articles and your master gardeners, I’ve become a self-taught gardener and I can help … [answer people’s] questions when it comes to soil gardening. I’ve learnt a lot and I’m still learning from your writers and master gardeners [about things from] ph to microbiology, beneficial bacteria to compatibility between fertilisers. reading your mag and taking what I’m learning from it, I’ve surpassed the people who helped me get started, and they now ask me questions that they can’t answer themselves. It feels very good to help people with their compost questions to soil-based garden questions, so I just wanted to say keep up the great f-ing work ‘cuz you guys are the best. I tell everyone I know, “If you want to become a gardener on a low budget, Maximum Yield is the mag for you to read if you want any chance for success.” anyway, [thanks to] all the free help that I’ve learned from you guys there at Max yield, I am able to now help others to make their gardens produce more with less money. So, thank you very much, Max yield; yOu GuyS rOcK!!!!!

Robert Smith Hi, Robert!

Thank you so much for the awesome letter. We here at Maximum Yield are so happy that our magazine could help both you and your garden grow so much! It’s for fans like you that we all strive to put of the best articles, products and trivia in each issue. Best of luck in the future and remember, if you ever have any questions regarding any indoor gardening topic, please don’t hesitate to send them to editor@maximumyield.com and one of our resident experts will answer you.

We want to hear from you!

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

SIMON SAYS

Simon Hey Simon, I was thinking about trying some organics this time around, but my friend told me that it makes no difference to the plants. I remember you did a question on organics before, but do you think you could answer this one for me again?

Thanks, James It’s an interesting question, and like many I tackle, the answer is a little grey for the indoor grower. Outdoors, I recommend organics without question; the biodiversity and activity in true soils needs the interaction with organics to have great yields year after year. Indoors, it is a different story.

Your friend might be a chemist, and in a narrow sense he is correct. When you look at the end result, organic nitrogen and chemical nitrogen do look very similar as they enter the plant and function. However, that is like flipping to the last page of a book and not knowing how the story got there.

Chemical products are water soluble and available; as soon as they are put in the reservoir, they are available.

This can be an important advantage in an indoor garden where there is not enough biology present to breakdown organic material properly. A slow nutrient release can cause problems when growing nutrient-hungry plants indoors. For this reason, a chemical base should be considered by all but the most diligent indoor growers. Also you are limiting the amount of biology—both good and bad— in your system by excluding organic compounds.

In a much slower process, organic nutrients follow the nature of decomposition, which requires a food chain of various organisms to absorb, digest and secrete basic organic 14

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

components. Many of the microbes sold in our industry are key components of the soil food web. Their purpose is to digest and release available nutrients for plants. While doing this, many of them also secrete beneficial substances that can tremendously benefit your plants—even indoors.

Using undigested organic material requires a strong understanding of how long each organic input takes to break down. An example would be the use of blood meal, which is water soluble and can break down quite rapidly, versus the use of feather meal, which has a similar level of nitrogen but can take months to actually start breaking down. Also, for those growing in true water systems, the use of organic compounds should be knowledge-based and focused to avoid unwanted issues with recirculated water supply.

Organics, however, do have a very serious role to play indoors even for chemical users. The important point is to focus on compounds that provide immediate and dramatic differences. Key examples are the humates, humic and fulvic acid. Although some of the benefits are still questioned, most gardeners, commercial and hobby, agree that these compounds do provide a richer soil that is more resilient and holds more nutrients in suspension for the plants. Kelp-based products can also provide tremendous benefits with all of the organic acids they contain. Worm castings are a natural way of adding plant-available nutrients and a vast array of biology into your soils. There are more quality organic products available every year so keep your eyes and ears open.

If you are keen on switching to organics indoors, I commend you, but I would also caution you to keep a little chemical product around—a base nutrient for overall slow growth and also a calcium magnesium supplement, as a Cal-Mg deficiency can be a recurring issue in organic systems. A digested organic liquid is your best option for an organic base nutrient, and make sure you look beyond the basic N-P-K for things like calcium, magnesium, sulphur, iron and other micronutrients.

Check with your local shop for some organic options that have proven themselves and for organically fortified soil blends that provide some initial nutritional quality.

Do you have a question for one of our resident experts?

Send it to editor@maximumyield.com or fill out the form on maximumyield.com and your answer might be printed in an upcoming issue.

MAX FACTS

HYDROpONIC NEwS, TIpS AND TRIvIA

Recreating Iridescent Flowers A team of mathematicians at the University of Nottingham has collaborated with experimentalists at the University of Cambridge to create a mathematical model of a plant's petals to learn more about iridescence in flowering plants and the role it might play in attracting pollinators. The research has been published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

MaxFACTS M axFACTS ax HYDROPONIC NEWS, TIPS AND TRIVIA

German Grower Develops on-the-Ground PV System In the German town of Oelde, fruit and asparagus grower Thomas Steinhoff installed a PV system on his large farm. A PV system on the roof is nothing new, but an installation on the ground is a different game entirely. A lot of conditions needed to be met, such as protecting the panels from small, curious animals. The solar panels are set on iron rods placed in the ground, and the fence surrounding the plant is designed so small animals can pass under. The plant produces 800,000 to 900,000 kWh of energy—enough to sustain 250 households. Steinhoff uses five to 10% of the energy for farming, while the rest goes to the national grid.

(Source: freshplaza.com)

Researchers Grow Penicillin-Producing Fungi with New Properties For over 100 years, it was assumed that the penicillin-producing mould fungus Penicillium chrysogenum only reproduced asexually through spores, but an international research team led by Dr. Ulrich Kück and Julia Böhm from the chair of general and molecular botany at the Ruhr-Universität has now shown the fungus also has a sexual cycle, i.e. two genders.

Through sexual reproduction of P. chrysogenum, the researchers generated fungal strains with new biotechnologically relevant properties—such as high penicillin production without the contaminating chrysogenin. Using so-called microarray analysis, the biologists also investigated the activity of all the approximately 12,000 genes of the mould fungus. The result: the sex genes control the activity of biologically relevant genes, for example those for penicillin production.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

MAX FACTS

HYDROpONIC NEwS, TIpS AND TRIvIA

Scientists Attempt to Artificially Recreate Photosynthesis Researchers at the University of East Anglia, University of Leeds and the University of Cambridge have been granted ÂŁ800,000 to develop technology that mimics photosynthesis, with hopes of producing more efficient forms of renewable energy. In order to capture sunlight and eventually produce hydrogen, researchers are working on technology that modifies microbes. By using micro-organisms outfitted with artificial panels, the UEA team hopes to manipulate already existing biological processes to suit the desires of human consumption practices.

(Source: inhabitat.com)

Powerful Enzymes Create Ethanol from Agricultural Harvest waste The mainly EU-funded DISCO project has developed powerful enzymes that accelerate plant biomass conversion into sugars and further into products such as bioethanol. The project's results include lignin-tolerant enzymes and enzyme cocktails for processing spruce, straw, corn cob and wheat bran.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

Environmentally Friendly Treated Seeds Scientists have developed an environmentally friendly method for removing germs from seeds by treating them with electrons, which within milliseconds destroy the DNA of the harmful organisms. Due to a special device setup, the elementary particles only act on the surface and in seed coat. The embryo in the interior of the seed is not affected so that the ability of the seeds to germinate is not impaired. Since researchers do not use any chemical additives, they destroy the pathogens in an environmentally friendly fashion with their method.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

UK Seed Potato Exports on Track

Last year was a difficult year for fresh produce producers throughout Europe, and the potato industry was no exception. Robert Burns, head of Seeds and Export in Great Britain, described this season as challenging. “The year started with drought conditions followed by a cold, wet summer. Overall, tonnage was down but almost everything lifted was seed size. Useable tonnage is comparable to last year, exports are on track and domestic supply is good.”

Seed potatoes faired better than ware, 90 per cent of which is grown in the north east of Scotland.

(Source: freshplaza.com)

when Planting Meets GPS A Herefordshire asparagus farmer has earned praise from agricultural experts for his pioneering use of GPS-based precision planting systems to improve the efficiency and output of his work at Cobrey Farms. The GPS system is used on the 500-hectare farm’s 25 hectares of asparagus crop, grown under polytunnels. The equipment sets out the rows of asparagus with 2-cm accuracy and precisely angling the rows so that the runoff from the polytunnels can be channelled and collected in a reservoir for later irrigation. Irrigation of the tunnels is also now controlled by automated machinery, as opposed to the £8,000-per-year labourintensive soil sampling method that was previously used.

(Source: surveyequipment.com surveyequipment.com)

Garden Excavation Sheds New Light on n London's Victorian Past A nineteenth-century garden has been revealing secrets to an archaeological team from London's Kingston University. Dr. Helen Wickstead spotted an opportunity to delve below the surface of an area of land at the University's Seething Wells hall of residence after looking at historic maps and images of the area alongside the River Thames. After digging a 10-metre-square trench, the team discovered signs of a path made from cinder and gravel. "That showed us it was a functional feature rather than decorative," said Dr. Wickstead. Shells in the gravel section suggest the path was probably made from waste material from the water filter gravel beds that still exist opposite the hall of residence.

(Source: sciencedaily.com)

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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pRODUCT SpOTLIGHT

YOUR GUIDE TO THIS ISSUE’S

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

Deep Flexible Trays Now Available

Following the success of the 1-m and 1.2-m Flexible Trays, the range has now been extended to include a 0.8-m size (ideal for hobby tents) and the Deepsided Flexible Trays, which are available in 0.8-m, 1-m and 1.2-m sizes. They are all an ideal fit for the most popular sizes of grow tent.

An innovative solution for growrooms with restricted access points, these flexible trays fit where other trays can’t go. Whether being used as a catchment tray (they feature 100-mm side walls) or to keep work spaces clean, these durable trays are manufactured in-house, ensuring high quality. See your nearest indoor gardening equipment retailer for more information.

Microbe Life PHoToSYNTHESIS PLUS Enhanced photosynthesis—vital to all plant life—is achieved through Microbe Life technology!

PHOTOSYNTHESIS PLUS enhances biological function at the foliar and root levels, utilising the sun’s energy and transporting minerals and carbon to the plant at much improved rates, therefore promoting plant vigour.

PHOTOSYNTHESIS PLUS comprises a complete ecosystem in the bottle! Learn more at select retail shops in your area.

Explode: Formidable Flowering Booster Explode is a brilliant bloom stimulator that delivers precious nutrients and minerals to your plants throughout the flowering stage.

Consisting of micronutrients, vitamins and acids, it does exactly as the name suggests—explosively driving flowering growth and bigger yields in addition to increasing your plants resistance against diseases! This product is suited for every irrigation system, as well as most soil, hydro and coco set-ups. It’s available in 250-ml and 1-, 5-, 10- and 20-L bottles.

New Extension Poles Added to the Gorilla Grow Tent Accessory Line Grow Tent extension poles in the 60.96-cm range are now available for sale and offered for all sizes in the product line. The extensions will complement the 30.48-cm extensions currently shipped with each Gorilla Grow Tent and that allow a customer to increase the height of their tent from the standard height of 2.13 to 2.44 m. The 60.96-cm extension will allow a Gorilla Grow Tent customer the ability to go from the standard height of 2.13 to 2.74 m.

Using both extensions together, the Gorilla Grow Tent customer can increase the height of their standard tent from 2.13 to 3.05 m. The new poles are priced accordingly to the size of the tents they complement. For more information, visit your local hydroponics store.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

pRODUCT SpOTLIGHT

CANNA Terra Vega and Flores CANNA Terra Vega and Flores are nutrients produced for the growing and flowering phase of plants. CANNA Terra Vega ensures a strong plant with large vital shoots and luxuriant root development, which is important for healthy, powerful growth and good yield. CANNA Terra Flores stimulates the fruit formation and contains all the nutrients the flowers need during the flowering phase. To learn more, please go to a retailer near you.

LUMii Compacta The LUMii COMPACTA, available in both 400 W and 600 W, has the same great component quality and high output that you would expect from a LUMii professional horticultural lighting product with the added benefit of a fully enclosed and potted case. As with all LUMii products, the LUMii COMPACTA is optimised to get the best results. The LUMii COMPACTA has an electronictimed ignite, as well as an injection-moulded case in fireresistant, glass-filled Nylon. It can be wall mounted or used horizontally or vertically.

The ballast is silent and cool-running and will fire your lamp up to 15 m from your ballast. Visit your local retailer for more information. Also, follow LUMii on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter (@LUMiiLighting).

Multi Total: Grow Media Improver Multi Total aids the key processes necessary for turning organic material from dead plant matter into beneficial nutrients. It sparks off significant root growth by improving soil structure (in terms of water retention) and promotes nutrient producing bacterial life in the substrate. Incredibly, you’ll also find that Multi Total stimulates the cationic exchange of minerals and micronutrients, and improves resistance against fungi and stress situations! Honestly, all this from only one product? You better believe it! This product is suited for every irrigation system, as well as most soil, hydro and coco setups. Available in 250-ml and 1-, 5-, 10- and 20-L bottles. To learn more, ask your local retailer.

Rhino Hobby Filter Rhino are pleased to announce the launch of the new Hobby line, a range of filters offering the security and performance of Rhino to the grower on a budget. Unlike other hobby filter manufacturers, Rhino refuses to compromise on the quality of its carbon. The Rhino Hobby range features a 30-mm bed of Australian-mined RC412 carbon—the purest activated carbon on the market—which is the same utilised in their Pro Filter range. The Hobby Filter also features a fully reversible flange and base and a lightweight aluminium neck and base. Growers can prolong the life of their Rhino Hobby filter to nine to 12 months by reversing the flange, ensuring even wear of the RC412 carbon bed. Visit an indoor gardening store near you.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

Microbe Life NoURISH-L NOURISH-L is a unique liquid conditioner derived from a highly decomposed organic humus deposit, unparalleled by other sources of humates. This rich substrate provides NOURISH-L with high levels of water-soluble humic acids, resulting in a robust structure that can increase water retention and might enhance the ability of plants to absorb nutrients.

NOURISH-L also contains a mixture of natural carbon compounds— the ultimate food source for your soil and its micro-organisms— made of marine animal carbon and vegetative carbon compounds. Certified for organic production, this product can be used with most indoor and outdoor systems. Call your local retail shop to learn more.

LUMii Hanging Bracket

M7 Photo Filter

When you want to hang a lamp vertically, the LUMii Cord Set Hanging Bracket is just what you need! Very useful for getting extra light to the extremities of your growroom or into thick vegetation, this simple, yet effective, hanging bracket allows lamps to hang alone securely (without a reflector) Simply attach to the LUMii Cord Set and hang. The LUMii Hanging Bracket takes stress off the cable and allows the lamp to hang vertically. Visit your local retailer to learn more. Also, follow LUMii on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter (@LUMiiLighting).

Method Seven Optics brings its patent-pending rendition technology to growroom photography. Introducing the M7 Photo Filter, which offers perfect colour balance under HPS lights for photography and video. Made from German mineral crystal glass, the same formulation found in Method Seven’s award-winning rendition glasses, photographers can now experience perfect daylight-balance photography shooting under HPS lights. Colour and details are vividly reveled and the strobe effect produced by some ballasts is also eliminated. Visit your local hydroponics shop for more information.

Dutchpro Starter Pack for Hydro and Coco This product contains all the nutrients and supplements you need for grow and bloom in one box. This authentic Amsterdam-designed canal houses starter pack is the perfect introduction to Dutchpro’s award-winning range of nutrients and additives at a significantly reduced price. This Dutchpro Hydro/Coco starter pack contains everything you would need to conduct a small grow. Not only does this pack give you a taste of the amazing hydro/ coco grow and bloom nutrients, but it gives you a whole selection of Dutchpro additives and supplements to boost your plant growth. Grow schedules and instructions included. Take a chance today and experience the benefits of the award winning Dutchpro range! For more information, go to a retailer near you.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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pRODUCT SpOTLIGHT

Inda-Gro’s Induction Grow Lights Inda-Gro Induction Lighting Systems only manufactures induction grow lights. First discovered in 1891 by Nikola Tesla, induction lamps have always been known for their energy efficiency (they consume up to 70% less power than HID lamps), long life and low operating temperatures. Inda-Gro Induction Grow Lights combine these proven efficiencies with broad-spectrum-PAR-weighted phosphors for explosive growth and high yields all from a single lamp source. Our grow lamps also utilise an electrodeless fluorescent discharge lamp (EFDL) technology. With no internal electrodes, these lamps offer low lumen depreciation and a rated life of 100,000 hours. For more information, visit your local indoor gardening retailer.

VitaLink Earth

New Gorilla Grow Tent Grow Tent Sizes

VitaLink Earth is a one-part, mineral-based soil nutrient that contains everything needed for fast growth, healthy plant development and large yield. This product is ideal for using for potted plants, as it includes all the macro- and micronutrients needed to give the best possible results. VitaLink Earth is in specific growth and bloom formulations, which helps to maximise the results because the plant is receiving an optimum level of all the elements required during each life cycle stage. Available in 1- and 5-L bottles, VitaLink Earth is suitable for use with all good-quality growing media, but for best results use with VitaLink Professional Enriched Soil.

To find out more about the VitaLink products, visit your local retailer or follow VitaLink on Twitter and Facebook.

The Gorilla Grow Tent line just got bigger and better. Tents sizes have expanded to include a 0.91 by 0.91 m, 1.22 by 1.22 m, 1.22 by 2.44 m, 2.44 by 2.44 m, 3.05 by 3.05 m, 3.66 by 3.66 m and 3.05 by 6.01 m. Engineered with a patent-pending adjustable extension system, Gorilla Grow Tents enable the indoor home gardener to increase the height and size of their grow tents up to 0.91 m higher than the standard height of 2.11 m.

All standard features, including double-reinforced structural poles for no-stress accessory and component suspension, are found on all of the Gorilla Grow Tents. Call on your nearest indoor gardening shop to learn more.

New Additions to the Final Flush Line Some flavourful new additions have hit the Grotek Final Flush lineup. The essences of grapefruit and sour green apple have been bottled to provide added low-level carbohydrates with a time-tested flushing agent.

These flavours now complement our blueberry, pina colada and strawberry Final Flush family. Smell these options out in your local hydroponic shops and expect even more excitement from Grotek in 2013.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

Atami Boosterpacks In honour of Atami’s 15th anniversary and as an opportunity to introduce several new stimulators, Atami is launching a package that includes all new as well as the already well-known stimulators and boosters—which are recognizable by their high concentrations and excellent quality. Discover the newest products, such as Rootbastic (distinguished by high N-P-K ratios for explosive root growth), Bio Bloombastic (with a hint of biominerals for organic flavour) and Blossom Builder Liquid (with a balanced P-K ratio for the final phase). The Booster Packs also contain already-known products like Bloombastic, Atazyme, Rootstimulator, Bloomstimulator, Root C and Flower C. As usual, these packs are available for each medium, include different grow schedules and are combinable with all the basic nutrients in the market.

For more information, you can visit us your favourite grow shop.

Smart Pot Transplanter

operator Halide Plus Glasses

We have made transplanting even easier! The Smart Pot® Transplanter is now available through your preferred distributor.

No gimmicks, no strings or wires attached; just another quality product from High Caliper Growing Inc. The Smart Pot Transplanter is a reusable 3.79-L Smart Pot specifically designed for transplanting. Its convenient and simple overlapping design allows for clean and easy use with all grow mediums. No more struggling; just peal down, transplant and reuse. Visit a retail shop near you for more information.

Method Seven Optics—the company that brought you perfectly balanced colour, clarity and safety under HPS lights—introduces a Halide Plus lens, giving you balanced colour and protection while working under metal halide lights. The halide-tuned lens is a dark-smoke colour with M7’s silver Plus coating, making these glasses the perfect crossover product between the growroom and the street. This product was developed in collaboration with Carl Zeiss Vision Labs and made in Italy, ensuring the best technology for clarity, focus and comfort. Visit an indoor gardening retail shop for more information.

Microbe Life FoLIAR SPRAY & RooT DIP In today’s hydroponic world, foliar spraying is more commonly recommended and accepted to ensure your plants absorb their required nutrition directly. Nontoxic, non-pathogenic and safe for all vegetable and plants, Microbe Life FOLIAR SPRAY & ROOT DIP is a natural, humic and microbialbased product containing endo- and ectomycorrhizal fungi and beneficial bacteria—including photosynthetic micro-organisms. It can also be used as a root dip to reduce transplant shock or it can be introduced directly into your water reservoir for application during your regular watering schedule. It is compatible with all standard nutrient and fertiliser programs and with the use of CO2. It works well with all indoor and outdoor systems, can be used during all stages of growth and will not burn plants. Check in with your local retailer to learn more about Microbe Life FOLIAR SPRAY & ROOT DIP.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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pRODUCT SpOTLIGHT

CANNA Terra Professional and Terra Professional Plus For growing in peat-based potting mix, CANNA offers CANNA Terra Professional and CANNA Terra Professional Plus. Both substrates contain high-value organic ingredients, which promote exceptional root development and the formation of thicker stems. A faster me metabolism, combined with low sickness rates, ensures an increased production. For more information on these and other CANNA prod products, please go to a retail store near you.

SuperCloset Releases the SuperStar to Popular Demand

Take Root: Superb Root Stimulator Take Root is a growth stimulant capable of radically improving the inner and outer qualities of your young plants! The active components are of natural origin, including several plant hormones and micronutrients. These combine to boost cellular division, cell elongation and nutrient transport—all of which help with overall root development during early vegetative growth. In addition to this, Take Root also slows down the ageing process for prolonged good health! This product is suited for every irrigation system, as well as soil, hydro and coco set-ups. It is to be used with cuttings and young plants. Take Root is available in 250-ml and 1-, 5-, 10and 20-L bottle. To learn more, visit a hydro store near you.

SuperCloset recently released the Super SuperStar within its grow box suite of prod products. The SuperStar is a 60.96- by 60.96by 167.64-cm grow box cabinet divided into two different growing chambers for both propagation and vegetative growth and flowering. The cloning chamber houses a 14-plant site SuperCloner and Germination Station and is powered by two 24-W T5 fluorescent bulbs, which is ideal for new plants. The flowering chamber holds up to 16 plants in two eight-plant-site, 30.28-L reservoirs. The flowering chamber is powered by a 150-W full spectrum HPS lighting system. The lighting system is height adjustable as it is suspended by yo-yos. In addition, there is a carbon filter added for odour control and every other accessory and component imaginable is added to the system for the complete turnkey product experience. For more information, go to a retail store near you.

Bio Bloombastic Bio BloombasticÂŽ is an N-P-K-containing additive for flowering plants for the serious, passionate organic grower who aims to grow high yields. This sophisticated cocktail made of biominerals and bio-organic additives of vegetable origin will increases the EC of your nutrient solution. When used properly, this member of the ATA Organics line will also produce big, beautiful flowers and fruits with an organic flavour. Bio Bloombastic is a product with a strong concentration that can be used in the last four to six weeks of the flowering stage. It will also cause an explosion of sugar and flower production, act as protection against stress, strengthen the immune system and stimulate harder cell structures. Bio Bloombastic can be used on pot soils and cocos. Visit a hydro shop for more information.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

AeroFlo40 and AeroFlo80 GHE is happy to introduce our latest AeroFlo growing systems, the AF40 and the AF80. These new systems offer you more shapes and configurations from which to choose when you start a hydroponics operation. They come ready to use like the rest of the line, with a Flora Series Tripack and the Basics, our detailed assembly and user’s manual. The AeroFlo40 has a volume of 200 L, is 2.40 m2 (224 by 105 by 57 cm) and has space for 40 plants. The AeroFlo80 has a volume of 200 L, is 4.5 m2 (410 by 105 by 57 cm) and has space for 80 plants. These systems are modular, so you can transform an AF40 into an AF80 in no time. They are available now from a supplier near you.

VitaLink Professional Enriched Soil VitaLink Professional Enriched Soil is an easy-to-use, unique blend of 40% wood fibre, 20% bark fines and 40% peat with added beneficial microbes and nutrient.

These beneficial microbes improve plant establishment, prevent disease and boost nutrient uptake enabling fast, healthy growth. Due to the composition of this product, there is a boost to both drainage and aeration, whilst also providing excellent re-wetting properties. VitaLink Professional Enriched Soil is available in 50-L bags and feeds plants for up to four weeks and is ideal for potting. For best results, use with VitaLink Earth. This product has a reduced level of peat, which has come from a sustainable source. For more information about anything in the VitaLink range, please visit a hydroponics store, or follow VitaLink on Facebook or Twitter.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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pRODUCT SpOTLIGHT

Blossom Builder Liquid It is commonly known as the flowering phase progresses, your plants’ need for phosphorus and potassium will increase as well.

That’s why Atami has developed B’cuzz Blossom Builder Liquid for the final two to four weeks in this flowering phase.

Blossom Builder Liquid ensures an improved structure of the fruit and creates strong, healthy and beautiful large fragrant flowers/fruit.

Due to the unique P:K ratio of 20% and 32%, Blossom Builder Liquid meets all the needs of your plant, also the higher level of phosporus compare to potassium improves the hardening of the fruit.

The easy-to-use B’cuzz Blossom Builder Liquid can be used in combination with soil, cocos and hydro, and is usable in any irrigation system. For more information, visit a retail store near you.

VitaLink easy Ideal for new or experienced growers, VitaLink easy takes the work out of growing and reduces the risk of mixing errors. Most plant nutrients have to be separated into two bottles because calcium has a tendency to react with sulphate and phosphate. However, VitaLink has worked with a university in the United Kingdom to develop a unique binding compound that allows all essential elements to be in one bottle, giving great plant results and helping to stabilise pH fluctuations in the nutrient tank.

VitaLink easy is suitable for use with clay pebbles, perlite and rockwool in recirculating or run-to-waste hydroponic systems. It is available in 1- and 5-L bottles, hard and soft water, and growth and bloom formulations. For more information, please visit your local hydroponics store or follow VitaLink on Twitter or Facebook.

The Neutralizer is now Available in the United Kingdom The Neutralizer is a highly efficient, naturalbased air particle purifier. The unit is very effective in removing malodours from a wide range of environments. This premiumquality product has many unique features and benefits, including: • Essential-oil based • Not harmful (natural ingredient blend) • No absorption into the surrounding environment • Compact plug-in (low energy consumption) • Neutralises within an hour of activation • Premium-quality ingredients • Covers up to 375 m3 in ideal conditions • Up to six week life with constant 24 hour use • Simple set up in seconds (full instructions are included in the kit) • Replaceable cartridges For more information, visit a hydroponics store near you.

Flood Potz Flood Potz are the latest addition to our range of systems that combine DWC. These systems flood the Potz with nutrient solution while an air stone aerates the nutrient solution, the growing media and, best of all, the roots. Flood Potz run at 15-minute segments as the air pumped into the solution will encourage good root growth and the overflow system allows excess solution to escape easily from each pot until they are drained.

The design allows the roots to be submerged only for a few minutes in unaerated nutrient solution whilst it drains from the Potz through special filters to return back into the tank below. Available in: Flood one, two, four and eight Potz Systems. Visit your favourite hydro shop for more information.

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Dutchpro Starter Pack Soil This Dutchpro Soil starter pack contains everything you would need to conduct a smallscale grow and more! Not only does this pack give you a taste of the amazing soil grow and bloom nutrients, it give you a whole selection of Dutchpro additives and supplements to boost your plant growth. Grow schedules and instructions included. This is the perfect introduction to Dutchpro nutrients and additives and gives you the opportunity to give the award-winning Dutchpro range a try at a significantly reduced price! For more information, visit your local hydroponic store.

Auto Flowering Grow & Bloom Feed for Hydro, Coco and Soil An auto flowering seed should be able to grow in constant light, and should not require any changes to the set-up in order to kick-start the flowering process and gives beginners a much higher success rate. To support the whole process and achieve that the plant is able to develop faster, we specially designed this hydro/coco and soil feed in both hard and soft water formulations. In short, the product has all the essential macro- and micronutrients necessary for exuberant growth and will fulfill all the specific demands to achieve the best results in a short time scale. For more information, visit your favourite hydroponic shop.

PLANT!T titan Flood-and-drain Hydroponic Systems The PLANT!T titan is a new range of table-based flood-and-drain hydroponic systems (popular growing systems for the more experienced grower). PLANT!T titan systems are available in four different sizes and are custom designed to be the best you can get. The range consists of the titan-S (approx. 660 by 770 by 375 mm, and fits 0.76- and 1-m grow tents), titan-M (approx. 1,060 by 735 by 370 mm, and fits 1- and 1.2-m grow tents), titan-L (approx. 1,075 by 1,195 by 410 mm, and fits 1.2-m growtents) and the titanXL (approx. 2,390 by 1,075 by 410 mm, and fits 2.4-m grow tents). The PLANT!T titan-XL features two titan-L flood-and-drain tables. Visit a retailer near you for more information, or follow PLANT!T on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter (@Plantit_Growit).

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

29

&

PhOTOSynTheSIS PlanT nuTrITIOn

By BenTley MIllS

Certain essential plant elements are required for photosynthesis and related metabolic processes.

Some have a direct role in the structure of the photosynthetic apparatus. Necrosis and chlorosis (chlorophyll loss), which gives brown or yellow discolouration in the leaf, accompanies a deficiency of an essential plant nutrient and results in reduced leaf area and plant metabolic activity.

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Often by the time symptoms are visible in the plant leaf, the metabolic activity in the chloroplast is severe and plant growth has been reduced to a loss for the grower. Essential plant nutrients involved in the translocation of photosynthesis from the site formed (light and dark reactions) to areas of sink formation—fruits, grains and storage organs—are another area where deficiencies of a specific plant nutrient can reduce overall plant growth. The rates of photosynthesis can be reduced significantly if storage sites are not developing properly and acting as a sink for the photosynthate formed in photosynthesis. Understanding how essential plant nutrients are involved in the photosynthesis process is necessary for the plant nutritionist to maximise plant health and economic growth of the crop.

PHOtOSyNtHESIS IN GENER AL

In the most general terms, photosynthesis can be described as the process by which plants use light energy to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) into oxygen (O2) and carbohydrates. A general reaction for the photosynthetic process is shown below:

cO2 + h2O + lIGhT enerGy

> (c6h12O6) + O2

Photosynthesis, however, is not that simple. It actually consists of several interconnected processes that work together in taking solar radiation and using it to turn carbon dioxide and water into starches and oxygen gas. Inorganic elements play a vital role in all of the processes of photosynthesis. Nutrients can play both a direct and indirect role in photosynthesis.

Direct effects of nutrient deficiencies are usually considered reversible. Elements can be considered to have direct effects on photosynthesis when deficiencies of a particular element can cause a rapid decline in photosynthetic activity; and upon reintroduction of that element at a proper level, photosynthesis resumes. Indirect effects are not usually readily reversible. They occur over a longer period of time and involve an element that is

“Inorganic eleMents plaY

a vital role in all oF tHe processes oF pHotosYntHesis.”

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31

Photosynthesis & PLant nutrition

not necessarily critical in the photosynthetic process, but instead is crucial in the production of something that is directly involved. An example of an indirect effect would be the depletion of sulphur. Although sulphur is not directly involved in the reactions of photosynthesis, it is a major component of amino acids, which make up many of the proteins of the chloroplasts. Without sulphur, chloroplast production would suffer and photosynthesis rates would fall off. Unlike the elements having direct effects on photosynthesis, the reintroduction of elements that indirectly affect the photosynthetic process might not readily improve rates of photosynthesis.

Often, the symptoms of many nutrient deficiencies are simply the visual manifestations of decreased photosynthetic activity by a plant. For example, the chlorosis that occurs when plants are deficient in magnesium (Mg) is due to the fact that magnesium makes up part of the chlorophyll molecule. Chlorophyll is a pigment in plants responsible for giving them their green colour. Thus, when magnesium is lacking, chlorophyll production is lowered and leaves yellow. In order to understand the role of the essential elements in photosynthesis we must first have an understanding of where, how and why the various processes of photosynthesis occur.

Photosynthesis is a series of partial processes:

1. INtERCEPtION OF INCIDENt RADIAtION AND ItS CONVERSION INtO CHEmICAL ENERGy AS NADPH AND AtP

“Often,

tHe sYMptoMs oF ManY nutrient DeFiciencies are siMplY tHe visual ManiFestations oF DecreaseD pHotosYntHetic activitY bY a plant.�

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2. DIFFuSION OF CO 2 tO tHE CHLOROPLAStS

Photosynthesis largely occurs in the leaves of green plants. In particular, it occurs within an organelle that is unique to plants called the chloroplast.

The chloroplast is one of three general types of plastids. The other two types are called chromoplasts and leucoplasts. Chloroplasts are organelles that are bound by a double membrane system, which encloses an internal membrane system, the thylakoids and a gel-like matrix called the stroma.

Thylakoids are grouped into stack like structures called grana, and several grana can be connected by tube-like structures called frets. It is among these structures that photosynthesis occurs.

Chloroplasts have also been shown to contain significant concentrations of inorganic nutrient ions. Studies have shown that more than half of the N, Ca and Mg in a plant is in the leaves. Concentrations of Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Mg, Al and Si have all been detected in the lamellae of the chloroplasts.

When essential elements are deficient or present in toxic amounts, a number of common changes can occur in the chloroplasts of a plant. Often, the chloroplasts of affected plants display the following irregularities: • Chloroplasts are more spherical than ovoid in shape.

• The number of grana tends to be reduced or appear as indistinguishable plastids.

• Deficiencies in calcium can result in membrane irregularities.

• Deficiencies in sulphur can result in general chloroplast irregularities.

• Deficiencies in magnesium of iron can result in destruction of lamellar systems as well as irregularities in chloroplast membranes.

• Ammonium toxicity can result in a decrease in the number of grana present as well as a general swelling of the chloroplast. This is likely related to the uncoupling effect that ammonia has on photosynthetic phosphorylation.

It must be noted that although we have split photosynthesis into several different processes for the purpose of studying it, all of the steps listed are invariably linked together and can all occur at the same time in the plant.

“Chloroplasts Have also been sHoWn to contain siGniFicant concentrations oF inorGanic nutrient ions.”

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Photosynthesis & PLant nutrition

3. SyNtHESIS FROm tRIOSEPHOSPHAtE OF StARCH IN tHE CHLOROPLAStS OR SuCROSE IN tHE CytOPLASm (tHE LIGHt REACtION)

The light reaction of photosynthesis involves the adsorption of light radiation of particular wavelengths and the utilisation of this absorbed energy to split water molecules in order to generate ATP and NADPH, which can be used as a source of chemical energy in the dark reaction. The light reaction takes place within two working units called photosystems. Photosystems consist of chlorophyll and other pigment molecules, such as xanthophylls and carotenoids, which absorb light energy from particular wavelengths. The pigments that absorb light energy are called antenna pigments. These pigments absorb light energy and deliver it to an area called the reaction centre. The reaction centre consists of some proteins and chlorophyll molecules that use this gathered energy and convert it into chemical energy.

The various pigments in plants help give them the unique ability to absorb light energy and convert it into useable chemical energy.

Though all the pigments play important roles in the functioning of green plants, the one whose role is the most obvious is chlorophyll and thus it will be discussed here.

Chlorophyll is a large molecule with a heme structure, much like the hemoglobin in our red blood cells. However, instead of having an iron atom in the centre like a nitrogen porphyrin ring hemoglobin does, it has a magnesium atom. There are different types of chlorophyll: chlorophyll a, b and c. Chlorophyll a makes up about 75% of the chlorophyll in a green plant and is thus most essential

to the photosynthetic process. What makes chlorophyll so special is its ability to absorb light. Chlorophyll absorbs some wavelengths of light better than others. It absorbs very little light in the 500 nm range of wavelength. Not surprisingly, this corresponds to green light in the electromagnetic spectrum. Chlorophyll best absorbs light from the 680 to 700 nm range. This corresponds to red/far red light on the electromagnetic spectrum. Chlorophyll takes the energy it absorbs from these wavelengths of light and converts it to useable chemical energy within the photosystems of the light reaction of photosynthesis. There are two separate photosystems over which the light reaction takes place. Appropriately enough, they are named photosystem I and photosystem II (after the order in which they were discovered). One of the main differences between the two photosystems is that antenna pigments of photosystem I absorb light predominately of a wavelength of 700 nm while the pigments of photosystem II absorb light mostly from the 680-nm wavelength. The two photosystems are joined by an electron transport chain made of a number of proteins, many of which contain inorganic nutrients within them.

“The various pigments in plants

Help Give tHeM tHe unique abilitY to absorb liGHt enerGY anD convert it into useable cHeMical enerGY. ”

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To be continued…We will continue our discussion of photosynthesis and plant nutrition in the upcoming issue of Maximum Yield.

6

WAyS

PLANTS

MOVE

by PhiLiP MciNTOSh

Plants move and react to things in their environment in all kinds of ways and for all kinds of reasons—Philip McIntosh takes us on a tour of tropic responses‌ All living things respond to stimuli in one way or another.

Plant responses are subtle at times, but always very efficient—the solar tracking of leaves to maximise light capture is one example. Plants move, grow and change form in response to a variety of factors. Plant responses to changes in their world are regulated in many ways and on many levels, ranging from the molecular to that of the whole plant.

Tropisms are plant movements directed toward or away from a stimulus. Some familiar tropisms are phototropism (movement toward light), gravitropism and geotropism (movement relative to a gravitational field, or toward the centre of the Earth) and thigmotropism (plant growth in response to physical contact). Other tropisms include chemotropism (movement in response to a chemical in the environment), hydrotropism (growth or developmental response to water) and thermotropism (response dependent upon temperature).

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

TrOPiSMS are plant movements directed toward or away from a stimulus.”

It is helpful to also designate plant responses that are triggered by a definite stimulus, but not in a direction that is related to the direction of the stimulus. Such movements are called nastic movements. Examples of this are a mimosa folding its leaves in response to a touch or a Dionaea (Venus flytrap) closing in response to the presence of an insect.

A lot of tropism research has focused on how plant hormones known as auxins control plant growth by stimulating cell elongation. It is well accepted that phototropic and geotropic bending of shoots and roots results from cells on one side of a plant elongating faster than cells on the other side, thus causing the plant to bend and change the direction of its growth.

PhOTOTrOPiSM

Photosynthesis is a popular way to make a living on Earth, and plants—as well as some microscopic organisms—have finely tuned, light-controlled positioning systems. Auxins are important in regulating how plant organs move and grow toward a light source and photosynthesis is one of the most-studied topics in botany.

In the basic model of phototropism, the concentration of auxin is elevated on the unlit side of a plant shoot exposed to light, which causes the cell walls on that side to become less fixed in structure. The cells on the unlit side elongate and then re-solidify their cell walls—the effect of this deceptively simple-seeming process is that the elongating cells cause the shoot to bend toward the light. Exactly how the concentration of auxin gets to be higher on the dark side is not perfectly understood, but current research suggests that auxin is transported from one side to the other and perhaps from other places in the plant. The biochemistry of auxinregulated bending is still being worked out, even after many decades of research.

Two other pieces of the phototropism puzzle lie in the proteins phototropin and phytochrome.

Although these two molecules are almost certainly on the light-receiving end of the phototropism system, the biochemical steps that go from there to the action of auxin are still under investigation.

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37

six ways PLants move

PhOTOSyNThESiS

is a popular way to make a living on earth and plants—as well as some microscopic organisms—have finely tuned, lightcontrolled positioning systems.”

GEOTrOPiSM

Geotropism is a form of gravitropism, which is growth in a direction parallel to a gravitational field. Earth’s gravity results from its mass, is directed toward the centre of the planet and diminishes in strength as one gets further from the Earth’s surface. Plants are able to detect the presence of gravity and align themselves with it accordingly. Primary stems are negatively geotropic in most plants and have a strong tendency to grow upward away from the Earth, while primary roots are positively

Plants can detect the presence of gravity and align themselves with it accordingly; primary stems in most plants grow upward away from the earth and primary roots grow toward the earth.

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geotropic and grow toward the Earth.

Secondary stems and roots are plagiogeotropic, meaning they grow at an oblique angle—not exactly straight down and not perfectly horizontally, either. And then there are the diageotropic rhizomes, which snake along perpendicular to the pull of gravity.

It is clear why plants benefit from having a gravitational sensor system—after all, roots need to get into the ground where the water and minerals are and shoots need to get into the air where the light, carbon dioxide, pollinators and the rest of the exciting world exists—but how exactly do they do it?

Early researchers suspected that auxins played a role in gravitropism and they were correct. Roots curve into the Earth because of differential cell elongation in the root. This is pretty much exactly the same mechanism that guides phototropism, but the sensing and signaling system is different.

As is the case with phototropism, the detection phase of the gravitational response is well known. Starchy grains called amyloplasts in root caps settle, under the influence of gravity, to the lower side of cells—this transmits a biomechanical signal of some kind that indicates which way is up (or down, as the case may be) and the auxin transport and regulation machinery takes it from there.

six ways PLants move

rOOTS can be sparse in a region of low moisture but suddenly explode in a riot of highly branched growth in a spot where water is plentiful.” hydrOTrOPiSM

Plants cannot detect water at a distance and do not have the ability to direct their growth toward it. However, if they do detect water in their environment, plants are able to direct growth in the direction of greater water concentration.

Plants also respond to water by rapidly growing when it is present and slowing growth when it is not. Roots can be sparse in a region of low moisture but suddenly explode in a riot of highly branched growth in a spot where water is plentiful.

Roots grow in all directions exploring the local substrate and when a good source of water is found it makes sense for a plant to take advantage of it by shifting resources away from non-productive regions to more promising ones. Some tree species have a reputation for finding their way into water pipes and sewer systems—they are simply taking maximum advantage of a lucky find.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

ThiGMOTrOPiSM

Anyone who has seen a morning glory coiling around a fence post has observed thigmotropism in action. This response occurs following a force contact—the direction of curvature of an extending tendril when it comes in contact with a rigid surface is toward the rigid surface, which results in the tendril growing in a coiled fashion if contact is made with a suitable support.

The sensory input to elicit the growth response is mediated by blebs, which are cell membrane protrusions on the plant epidermis. Blebs operate by an unknown mechanism, but somehow transmit a signal that is acted upon very rapidly. Some tendrils will begin to curve within less than a minute of being subjected to a touch stimulus. At the cellular level, a combination of differential cell elongation and changes in cell turgor pressure are responsible for generating growth along or around a solid object.

chEMOTrOPiSM ch hEMOT EMOTrOPiSM EMOT

Chemotropism is growth toward a chemical stimulus. Both positive and negative chemotropisms are well known to occur. Throughout the evolutionary history of plants the soil has provided a chemically diverse environment, which explains why roots are generally the most chemotropic plant organs. Early research indicated that plant roots had a tendency to turn away from a poor soil toward a healthier one, which suggested some sort of chemical sensing was occurring. Plants roots tend to proliferate in regions of high nutrient ion concentration and they are also sensitive to organic compounds that can signal the presence of potential sources of nutrients or would-be attackers such as bacteria and fungi.

Pollen also exhibits a strong response to biochemical factors. When a pollen granule alights on the stigma above a clutch of waiting ovules, the growth of its pollen tube is guided inexorably downward by chemical signals from below.

ThErMOTrOPiSM Th is a plant movement in response to a temperature change. change.�

ThErMOTrOPiSM ThE Th

Thermotropism is a plant movement in response to a temperature change. A typical nastic response is that of downward leaf curl in cold weather, which can often be seen in rhododendrons. This movement and change in leaf geometry is thought to be aimed at preventing water loss through stomata on the underside of the leaves.

In controlled experiments where a source of heat is directed at specific plants and plant organs, results are variable. The roots of some plants show positive thermotropism (bending toward the heat source) in one temperature range and negative thermotropism for another temperature range. In general, higher temperatures (20 to 30°C) elicit a negative response and lower temperatures (15 to 20°C) result in a positive response. Plant thermotropic response can even cancel out the gravitropic tendency of young labouratory-grown corn roots, suggesting there is a complex interaction between the two tropic sensory systems.

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Dissolved

Oxygen

—the Hidden Necessity

by Eric Hopper

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

Of all the amazing substances found on this Earth none are as precious and integral to biological life as water. Water, as we all know, is made up of oxygen and hydrogen atoms, but between the water molecules is a different form of oxygen: molecular oxygen. Molecular oxygen—more commonly known to gardeners as dissolved oxygen—is the oxygen used by aquatic creatures and the aerobic organisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere.

Water quality evaluations performed for aquatic life applications rate water 44

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quality in relation to its dissolved oxygen content—the more dissolved oxygen, the better the water quality.

This standard should be applied to water used for plants, too—especially plants in hydroponic systems.

The importance of dissolved oxygen

Good-quality water that includes a high dissolved oxygen content is absolutely crucial to successful indoor horticulture. The most significant benefit of

water with a high dissolved oxygen content is the stimulation of beneficial aerobic organisms. Most beneficial micro-organisms living in and around a plant’s rhizosphere will only survive, thrive and reproduce in an oxygenrich environment. Too little dissolved oxygen creates a compounded negative effect—as the beneficial organisms die out because of the lack of dissolved oxygen, the ideal conditions for anaerobic pathogenic organisms are also created. Almost every pathogenic disease related to the plant’s

DissoLveD oxygen

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

rhizosphere is anaerobic and can be avoided by providing sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen.

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

Physical factors that affect dissolved oxygen

There are two physical factors that affect dissolved oxygen content relative to indoor horticulture: temperature and salinity. Salinity is less crucial than temperature because by the time a medium or nutrient solution’s salinity level is high enough to affect dissolved oxygen content, chances are good that the plant will have already shown signs 46

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

of over-fertilisation or toxic salinity. Temperature, however, is the most crucial and controllable factor associated with dissolved oxygen. Temperature inversely controls the solubility of oxygen in water. In other words, as temperature rises the dissolved oxygen content falls and as temperature decreases the potential dissolved oxygen content increases.

If this wasn’t bad enough, the damage is intensified because this inverse relationship with oxygen and water is exponential—so when temperatures rise in your growroom, the dissolved oxygen content in your hydroponic system or grow medium exponentially decreases. This is the number one reason temperature control of the nutrient solution in a hydroponic nutrient reservoir is so crucial.

Temperature control for water

The first way to control the temperature of your water is to control the temperature of the room itself—soil containers, hydroponic systems,

hydroponic reservoirs and anything else in the growroom will eventually take on the ambient temperature of the room. This is one of the reasons you see plants grown outdoors in 37.77°C heat that survive, even flourish, while indoor gardens that reach 37.77°FC usually end up with severe casualties. The plants grown outdoors can withstand 37.77°C or more temperatures because their roots and the moisture around them are insulated by the ground. The dissolved oxygen and beneficial aerobic organisms in the soil are unharmed by the heat and continue to function, allowing the plant to continue growing. Now take a look at your indoor plants in the same kind of heat. Their roots are in some sort of soil container or hydroponic system, they are completely surrounded by the ambient air in the room and plants, roots, medium and all will eventually become the same temperature as the room—in this case, 37.77°C or more. Once the water in the soil or hydroponic system gets that hot, the dissolved oxygen content is so low that beneficial aerobic organisms will die off and pathogenic anaerobic organisms will find favourable conditions to thrive and destroy your plants. A little-known fact in the indoor gardening industry is that the stress imposed on plants by high temperatures is usually the result of a decline in dissolved oxygen in the medium or hydroponic system—this harms beneficial microbes and in turn harms the plants. By implementing air conditioners, exhaust and intake fans and air cooled reflectors, however, an indoor horticulturalist can effectively control the ambient temperature, which will help to maintain sufficient dissolved oxygen in the medium or hydroponic solution.

Water chillers

Water chillers have become an increasingly popular tool for the hydroponic gardener. Any hydroponic system that is susceptible to heat from the environment or employs large submersible pumps should absolutely be equipped with a water chiller, which is essentially an air conditioner for water. These

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FertiliSerS —What’s for Dinner?

by Dr. J. benton JoneS, Jr.

What exactly is a fertiliser and how do you know what’s in it? There are so many conflicting claims and so much confusing information out there, but Dr. J. Benton Jones, Jr. can help you sort it all out…

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What constitutes a fertiliser is variously defined—one source has it being “a substance (as manure or chemical mixture) used to make a soil fertile.” (Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 10th Edition, 1994) Another definition reads, “fertiliser is any organic or inorganic material of natural origin (other than liming materials) that is added to a soil to supply one or more plant nutrients essential to the growth of plants.”

More specifically, a fertiliser generally contains one, two or all three of the designated fertiliser elements: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).

Chemical fertilisers consist of both generated and naturally occurring substances. Chemical fertiliser nitrogen is derived from a fossil fuel (usually natural gas), phosphorus from acidified rock phosphate and potassium as potassium chloride, a naturally occurring mineral.

The percentages of the elements N, P and K in a fertiliser are expressed for N in its elemental form, P as its pentaoxide (P2O5), and K as its oxide (K2O)—which is why on a fertiliser label you will see three numbers, expressing the percentage of N to P2O5 to K2O in the product. Sometimes there is also a fourth number, which notes the percentage content of suphur (S).

Frequently the term “complete” is used to identify a fertiliser that contains something other than just the three basic fertiliser elements—usually one, several or even all of the micronutrients boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo) and zinc (Zn). Inclusion of these micronutrients actually limits the use of such fertilisers to those situations where there is a probable deficiency. However, if there is no deficiency, then using a mixture that includes these extra elements could lead to excess or even toxicity. In some instances the amount of the included micronutrient in the complete fertiliser mix might also be insufficient to meet the plant’s requirements—that’s why it is recommended that the inclusion of any micronutrients in a fertiliser be based only on specific determined need. Since many of the commonly used rooting media, such as soilless organic mixes containing peat moss or pine bark, composted milled pine bark, composted wood byproducts, perlite, rockwool or coir, are naturally occurring products, they will also contain various levels of these micronutrients, sometimes in sufficient quantities to meet

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FertiLisers—what’s For Dinner?

the plant’s needs. This is another reason why including micronutrients in an applied fertiliser mix could lead to excesses and possible toxicity.

The form of the fertiliser you use—whether it’s a solid, a liquid (either completely soluble or in slurry form) or a gas, such as anhydrous ammonia (NH3)—will determine its use as well as its ease of handling as a fertiliser material. Solubility of ingredients can be a significant factor in a fertiliser’s interaction with the rooting environment (particularly in soil), affecting the availability of the essential plant nutrient elements that it contains. This is particularly important for the fertiliser element P, since the orthophosphate anion is a highly reactive ion, forming complexes that can significantly reduce the availability of P in the ionic form necessary for root absorption.

An organic fertiliser is a substance that consists of combined carbon (C), hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O).

Unfortunately, what designates a substance as an organic fertiliser has not been well defined and there might be some question about the use of the term fertiliser for identifying substances that do not contain substantial quantities of any of the fertiliser elements (N-P-K) sufficient to meet the requirements of a growing plant.

Most organic substances that have been identified as being fertilisers have low essential nutrient element levels and are therefore not suitable for use when growing plants with high nutrient element requirements. Being low in elemental content, a large quantity of organic fertiliser would be required to meet the demands of even

“MoSt organic SubStanceS that have been iDentiFieD aS being FertiliSerS have low eSSential nutrient eleMent levelS anD are thereFore not Suitable For uSe when growing plantS with high nutrient eleMent requireMentS.”

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a low nutrient element requirement plant. In addition, being an organic substance, the fertiliser must undergo decomposition in order for any plant-essential elements to be released into the rooting medium solution in the ionic form necessary for root absorption. The use of most common organic fertilisers can result in excesses or insufficiencies when used for meeting the nutrient element requirement for just one element—for example, animal manures are a good source for N, but they contain other elements that can become present in excess with continued manure applications. Composted chicken litter is another organic material that can result in elemental imbalances between the elements K and Ca and Mg, leading to either an induced Mg or Ca deficiency. A determination of the fertiliser value of an organic material can be reached by performing a total elemental content determination or a water equilibrium analysis. A total elemental determination can be performed by a plant analysis laboratory, while the water equilibrium test is available from some soil testing laboratories.

A water equilibrium test will determine the level of plant

available elements and will not only include the fertiliser elements but the other essential elements as well—such as Ca, Mg, S and some of the micronutrients. A total element analysis will identify those elements potentially available upon decomposition.

Organic compost that is the end product of microbial decomposition is a stable substance, resistant to further decomposition.

Some of these organic composts are suitable for use as rooting media due to their stable physical structure— worm castings, for example, depending on the source material, can be an excellent potting medium. In general, though, organic composts are not suitable sources for the fertiliser elements—or the other elements plants sometimes require—so they should not really properly be considered as fertilisers at all.

An inorganic substance can be classified as being organic, based on the fact that it is a naturally occurring substance— not on the basis of being a compound of combined carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. This designation applies to those substances that can be used in the production of food plants or products in order to meet state or federal regulations for designation as being organically grown.

The challenge for the grower, whether using a chemical, organic or organic-inorganic fertiliser, is to provide the nutrient elements necessary to meet the plant’s requirements without insufficiency or excess. To this end you should try to understand the plant’s nutrient element requirements and balance them with the nutrients being supplied by the fertiliser and those which already exist in the rooting medium.

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by Lee McCall

Heat can bring out the worst problems in indoor gardens.

Root aphids are a particular setback that can do massive damage to your roots. Here are a few tips on how to keep your plants safe and sound from these nasty bugs‌

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roothLess

Whatever the reason, excessively hot temperatures are not favourable to an indoor gardener. Hot temperatures break down plant immune systems, leaving gardens susceptible to attack and infection. If not properly equipped, a system designed for perpetual harvest can begin to collapse as a result of stress input on the plant.

Debilitating stress can be caused by a number of factors, including insects, moulds, blights, mildews and viruses.

Root aphids, the spider mites of the new millennium, are a particular problem.

They will infest all grow mediums from rockwool and hydroton to coco and soil, and they crawl to and from containers, pots, cubes and trays, as well as fly about.

These little suckers have taken over many gardens; in fact, younger adolescents will devour root systems in hours, turning healthy vibrant plants into wilted standing sticks overnight.

The damage ultimately results in root disease, which many gardeners often mistaken for the primary cause of failure rather than the root aphid itself. As such, inspect for root aphids if you are experiencing root disease despite having ideal water or root zone temperatures. If you look close, they can be seen darting through the atmosphere of rooms (sometimes they are mistaken for fungus gnats, but they are visually more aggressive in flight) and swarming in and around the root systems. Their bodies are round—as opposed to slender like thrips—and are much larger than spider mites, and the colouration of adolescent species ranges between hues of red, brown, green and black.

suddenly collapse as a result from over stress to the plant system. Mucus membranes coating aeroponics roots and the smell of must or dirt is a sign that negative pathogens are dominating the plants’ immune systems. Growth will slow dramatically along with water consumption, and leaf production might grow at half the rate and size of normal. Discolouration in leaf tissue is a sign of nutrient deficiency or lockout, which ultimately results from a damaged root system’s inability to absorb proper nutritional elements.

Preventative measures are applicable and available in various forms to combat outbreaks of aphids. Many growers will treat with supplemental micronutrients or vitamins in attempt to solve nutritional deficiencies; however, in actuality, a pesticide is needed. Poisonous pesticides and insecticides are available for immediate systemic control, but I recommend treating with natural and organic alternatives if possible. Poisons are much more hazardous to handle in comparison and will require stricter measures of safety standards when applying them to gardens.

An effective biological control is live ladybirds, which are available at most gardening centers. Ladybirds are most effective on smaller plants, as they are easier to “clean.” The bugs easily scan over cuttings for aphids within a matter of minutes.

They will even literally burrow down into most grow mediums and mine juicy aphids from the rhizo rhizosphere. However, avoid releasing lady ladybirds into gardens

“large arge infestations,

on the other hand, are a little harder to control with biological combatants since they must quickly overpopulate the target pest in order to prevent devastation.”

Damage caused by root aphids is notable in a variety of ways. Sudden wilt wilting or death of what were thought to be healthy plants is a common sign of a root aphid attack. Plants will 54

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that have been treated with insecticides or pesticides.

Large infestations, on the other hand, are a little harder to control with biological combatants since they must quickly overpopulate the target pest in order to prevent devastation. In many cases, the time it takes to conquer this feat leaves gardens devastated from neglect. Azadirachtin extracted from neem, pyrethrums extracted from chrysanthemum, and rosemary and lemongrass oil are naturally derived pesticides that are effective at controlling root aphid outbreaks. These natural plant-based remedies containing rosemary, clove, pyrethrums and azadirachtin are available to the hobby or commercial grower and feature organic certification. (Organic certified does not necessarily mean safe for consumption, though, so always use care when handling any type of insecticides or pesticides.)

I recommend using them together as it provides a broader spectrum of attack against the aphid. Different active ingredients will have different effects as far as “kill on contact” is concerned.

Rosemary- and pyrethrum-based products should have a more concentrated effect for killing on contact. Azadirachtin will work overtime if applied effectively, but it might have little response as an immediate fix. Also, depending on crop type, age, sensitivity, etc., ingredients will fluctuate as far as effective rate is concerned.

For example, you might find that pyrethrums will be more effective on tomato and pepper varietals, but not as effective on roses.

using any desired container or reservoir as a holding tank (i.e.: a 3.78-L bucket, a trashcan, etc.), completely dunk rockwool cubes and containers of hydroponic grow medium into solution and agitate with an up-anddown motion. This will help knock off Azadirachtin, extracted from neem tree (above), works as an effective eggs, larvae, adults pesticide for controlling root aphids. and anything clinging to the root mass.

An effective way of applying these Soilless mixes, such as coco and peat, products is immersing the entire root can be irrigated manually until run system in a premixed solution of the off for effective application. It’s also desired active ingredient. I recompossible that you might need to apply mend root drenching methods, when a weaker dilution rate of the desired possible, for battling root aphids and ingredient with hydroponic gardens killing large populations on contact because they will be more susceptible immediately. What to root drench with to more frequent irrigations—as ophowever, will vary with your personalposed to soilless mixes, which can hold ity, preference, interest and just overall the solution in the root system for a how desperate you really are. Basically, longer period of time. Less is always

more; you can always add a little more, but once damage is done, it’s impossible to undo.

For those who must drop the nuke, so to speak, imidacloprid is the answer.

This nasty molecule is sheer death to all root-dwelling insects like aphids, thrips and fungus gnats (it pretty much annihilates anything except mites). Different concentrations of imidacloprid are available in different forms. Just be sure to use extreme caution when handling and applying this dangerous compound.

Cleanliness is obviously the best way to prevent problems from occurring in the garden. Always start from seed if possible, and avoid transfer of cuttings in order to prevent spreading root aphid infestations.

Great gardeners are susceptible as much as beginner growers, so practice consistency, develop methods and implement follow-through.

Despite heat waves and bug swarms, your garden should stay insect- and disease-free with the proper inputs and routine practices.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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A Simple Guide to Taking Plant Cu ings

by Matt LeBannister

Matt LeBannister tells you pretty much everything you need to know to be a confident and successful cutting expert.

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It’s easy to see that genetics are an extremely important factor in the human story: after all, it is our genes that determine to a large extent what type of people we will be. Whether we will be tall or short, skinny or fat, disease resistant or susceptible to infection— it’s all in our genes. This doesn’t just apply to humans, though; it applies to all life on Earth, including the plants we grow. So when we first grow a type of tomato or pepper that we really like, it is only natural to want to hold onto that plant and its good traits—and the best way to insure that your next generation of plants has the same favourable qualities is to take a cutting of that plant, thus creating an exact genetic replica, or clone. Some plants will take to this process better than others, but by following some simple instructions you can limit your failures and become something of a cutting expert.

Selecting a motherplant Making clones from plant cuttings is a method of asexual propagation. The cutting is taken from what is commonly referred to as a motherplant. A cutting will be genetically identical to the motherplant and will be the same

The three most common rooting hormones found in commercially available rooting compounds are napthalenaecatic acid (NAA), indolebutyric acid (IBA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4DPA)."

as the parent as long as the environmental conditions are the same— so obviously your best, most vigourous plants should be selected as motherplants, as their vitality will then be passed onto the cuttings. The motherplant should be healthy and at least one or two months old and should be kept in a constant vegetative state.

Your motherplant’s only purpose is for taking cuttings. To avoid contaminating your motherplant with pest insects or disease, keep it isolated from the rest of your plants—if your motherplant was to become infected with a disease, all subsequent cuttings would be infected and therefore useless.

making the cut Whichever cutting tool you use— whether it’s a scalpel, a razor, scissors or some other instrument—it must be sterile, because making a cut can introduce disease to your plant through the open wound. Find a healthy branch with four to six leaves on it and, using the sterile cutting tool, sever the

branch at a 45° angle directly below the bottom two leaves. These lower two leaves can now be removed from the cutting, allowing more of the freshly cut surface area to be exposed to your rooting hormones and medium. The severed end of the cutting should then be stuck into your chosen medium about 2.5cm deep. Do this quickly, as air can get trapped in the freshly cut stem of the cutting and this could cause it to wilt and die. rooting hormoneS When a cutting is taken from a plant, stem cells that were used to grow leaves and branches must then begin to grow roots instead. Plants achieve this by the stem cells located at the cut becoming

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a simPLe guiDe to taking PLant cuttings

properties is spun from heated rock in a similar style to cotton candy.

Insects that lay eggs in growing media are less likely to lay their eggs in rockwool and rootborne insects are also less likely to be found in it.

Rockwool can come in a flat of 100 starter cubes, which are easily transplanted into larger cubes suitable for hydroponic systems.

Coco coir is made from shredded coconut husks. It is totally inert, very suitable for rooting cuttings and is often available in starter packs ideal for propagating cuttings.

Do not transplant cuttings until there is dense root growth. This can be determined by checking underneath rockwool flats or by gently coaxing the root ball out of the container.” undifferentiated cells, eventually transforming into root cells. Root-inducing hormones are already present in plants, but many gardeners believe that by dipping the severed end of the cutting into a rooting compound that contains some root-inducing hormones the rate at which the roots will develop will be accelerated.

Rooting compounds come in powder, gel and liquid forms and are to be applied to the severed end of the cutting right after the cut has been made, prior to it being inserted into the growing medium. Liquid and gel types are most common, as the powdered versions are easy to overapply and too much rooting hormone solution can actually stunt the development of new root growth.

The three most common rooting hormones found in commercially available rooting compounds are napthalenaecatic acid (NAA), indolebutyric acid (IBA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4DPA). growing media There are many different types of growing media available to the indoor gardener and each has its own advantages and disadvantages: Rockwool is very popular for use with cuttings. This inert medium with excellent water and oxygen-retaining

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Soil and soilless mixes are not inert and can contain pathogens harmful to plants. To sterilise your soil or soilless mixture you can bake the medium in your oven—just place the necessary amount of mix into a large baking tray and bake in the oven at 250°C for 15 minutes. Allow the mix to cool before placing your cuttings in it.

Aeroponics is the medium of the future for cuttings. There are many different aeroponic cutting propagators on the market today and they all work on the same principle: the severed end of the cutting is suspended in the air, where it is misted by a fine spray of water. Roots will eventually grow into the humid, misty air and can then be transplanted into a larger aeroponic system. This technique is also ideal for starting cuttings that are destined for nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic systems.

Many people are achieving excellent results with these methods.

lighting Lighting is vital in all stages of plant development and cuttings are no different. Cuttings need 18 to 24 hours of light if they are to root properly, but they must not receive light that is too intense. Transpiration is the process through which water is evaporated through the leaves and in turn water is sucked in through the roots—without fully developed roots, plant cuttings can easily dry out. Using fluorescent light bulbs at this stage of growth is wise because they are not intense enough to damage fragile cuttings. humidity Appropriate humidity levels are very important for cuttings to root successfully. High humidity levels—from 90 to 100%—slow down transpiration and help keep cuttings from drying out.

High humidity levels also help to promote root growth. Humidity domes— clear plastic covers placed over your cuttings, allowing light

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Snails Pest, Predator and

by Donald Lester

d o o F

Believe it or not, there are more ways to look at these slimy and slow creatures than you FIrst thought.‌ 60

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Pest Of all the pests that can enter a greenhouse, arguably the most repulsive is the common garden snail. (Snails are often confused with slugs since both have the same general appearance and both leave the characteristic slimy trails we are used to seeing. However, snails have a shell, slugs do not.)

Since snails are no longer a popular food crop, populations have grown and spread and are now a common pest in gardens, flower beds and greenhouses. In order to get an idea of how prolific brown snails can be, consider this: each adult snail can lay 80 eggs as often as six times per year, so effective control of snails requires constant vigilance.

Snails are nocturnal and feed on organic matter in the soil, bark from trees, and especially on vegetation.

Nearly anything growing in a vegetable or flower garden can be consumed. In particular, snails like tender foliage, young seedlings, herbaceous plants and ripening fruit that grows near the ground. They have also been known to feed on avocado and citrus foliage and fruit. Snails feed on both living and decaying plant material.

The leaves of affected plants will have irregular holes with smooth edges, and new fruit and young plant bark can be damaged as well.

Snails feeding on cultivated plants might become serious pests. Enormous populations can sometimes become established in citrus groves and cause serious damage to leaves and fruit.

They also cause economic damage to truck crops and ornamental plants.

Large numbers of snails are a nuisance around homes, greenhouses, nurseries, outbuildings and sheds.

Predator Not all snails are pests. There is a predatory snail called decollate (Rumina decollate), or cannibal snails, that keep the brown garden snail under control since they devour brown garden snail eggs and small snails.

Decollate snails are easy to distinguish from the brown garden snails.

Brown garden snails have a rounded shell, whereas decollate snails have a cone shaped shell.

While decollate snails work well as a biological control of brown snails, it is important to keep in mind that they can take years to become established. Moreover, decollate snails can also feed on young, tender seedlings, small plants and flowers—though not as heavily as the brown garden snails. So, if you can take some bad with the good, then decollate snails might be the control

“snails are unable to cross copper, so place copper barriers (strips) arounD planter boxes, trunks or GreenHouse bencH leGs.�

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SNAILS: PEST, PREDATOR AND FOOD

you are looking for. Decollate snails are available for sale through specialty shops and mail-order catalogues.

Food The only danger in eating garden snails is when they have ingested poisons for snail control. In order to eliminate this danger, wait six weeks after poison control material has been applied to gather the snails. Larger mature snails have tastier meat than younger smaller ones and are easier to remove from their shells. Snails should be collected when they are about the size of peas, or about 10 days after hatching. Place them in a and chopped lettuce or other greens until they are large enough—about one to 4 cm in diametet.

In order to make brown snails ready for consumption, the gathered snails must be purged of any off-flavour or toxic materials from previously eaten food. To do so, place just over a centimetre of damp cornmeal in the bottom of a container, such as a plastic basket, metal pan or crock.

Place the snails in the container and cover with a ventilated or screen top, such as a cheesecloth or nylon netting visibility. Weight the cover along the sides with bricks or tie it securely so the snails do not escape. Place the container in a cool, shady area and let the snails purge themselves by eating the cornmeal for at least 72 hours.

If you wish to keep them there longer, replace the cornmeal every other day to prevent it from moulding and souring. The snails feed and then crawl up on the side of the container to rest; take note of this movement as only active snails should be used and inactive snails on the bottom should be discarded. Once purged, the snails should be washed thoroughly with cold running water to remove the cornmeal from their shells.

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Heat a large pot of boiling water with bay leaf and then plunge in the live snails. Simmer about 15 minutes. Drain well. With a wood pick or pointed knife, pull the snail meat from the shell. If desired save shells for later use. Remove and discard the dark-coloured gall, a half-centimetre protrusion on the tail end where the snail is attached to the shell. Rinse the snail several times under running water.

The snail meat is then ready to be used in a recipe or packaged and frozen for later use. To prepare the empty shells for use, boil them in boiling soda water (use a 1.25 mm baking soda per 0.5 L of water). Drain and rinse in cold running water, then dry.

Controlling snails Controlling snails involves keeping the following tips in mind: • Eliminate all hiding places where snails might take refuge during the day: under old boards, stones, debris, plastic tarps, stacked pots, weedy areas around tree trunks, dense ground covers and leafy, lowgrowing branches.

• Daily monitoring of hard-to-control places, hand-picking and disposal are important tasks to perform until creased. Then inspect weekly.

• Avoid overwatering. Irrigate early in the day so things dry out by evening.

• Place 77-sq-cm wood pieces, elevated a couple centimtres off the ground, in favourite hiding places to trap and collect snails.

Check under the boards daily the

•

second week, every three to four days the third week and weekly thereafter.

Snails are unable to cross copper, so place copper barriers (strips) around planter boxes, trunks or greenhouse bench legs.

“WHEN THEY WERE NO LONGER CULTIVATED AS FOOD CROPS, THE SNAIL POPULATIONS GREW AND SPREAD AND ARE NOW A COMMON PEST IN GARDENS, FLOWER BEDS AND GREENHOUSES.”

•

•

Use predatory decollate snails as a natural biological control.

As for baits, remember they are toxic to decollate snails, pets and children. Using the above methods should reduce snail population enough so chemical control will not be necessary. There are several problems with using baits. In the scientific community, there is the question of whether bait is more attractive to snails than their preferred food. Caffeine is known to be a great snail killer. However, the bitter taste of caffeine keeps snails from eating lethal amounts in bait preparations.

And don’t forget, there is one more method of controlling snails: eating them.

“eacH aDult snail can laY 80 eGGs as oFten as six tiMes per Year, so eFFective control oF snails requires constant viGilance.”

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

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

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

Priced around £65 or less, the handheld pH meter is also a worthwhile investment. Except, that is, when it begins to malfunction. Sluggish readings that take 15 to 30 seconds to register, erratic measurements that fail to stabilise, blatantly incorrect values or no pH display at all are complaints common to users of pocket pH meters. Further, gardeners using rainwater or treated wastewater to irrigate plants might find that the performance of their pH meter declines very quickly. Why? Regardless of the type of pH meter, the problem can typically be traced back to the electrodes. Single-junction electrodes are much more prone to problems and shorter lives than their double-junction counterparts.

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It’s all about the electrodes Electrodes in pH meters fail because of reference electrode deterioration, which is a result of depletion, contamination and clogging. The reference electrode’s ions (suspended in liquid, gel or a polymer) are very slowly depleted with use.

Electrolyte depletion occurs with all pH electrodes—whether they are heavy-duty industrial electrodes, sophisticated laboratory electrodes or pocket pH tester electrodes. If this were the only factor corrupting a pH reference electrode, however, electrode life would still be long enough.

In addition to depletion from usage, though, contaminating ions from water or soil samples can cause rapid chemical reactions with the silver and silver chloride reference electrolyte solution commonly used in pH reference electrodes.

This contamination produces sluggish, erratic, incorrect or even nonexistent pH electrode responses as the reference electrode wire spoils or the reference junction clogs—the result is swift electrode failure.

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

ph electrode anatomy Single junction

Double junction 1

2 3 4

5

6

6

7

10

Doubling the load: double-junction electrodes

1) cable 2) cap 3) Fill hole 4) Body-glass or epoxy 5) Outer reference chamber filled with internal fill solutio n 6) ag/agcl wire 7) annular reference junction allows reference solution to leak 8) Inner reference chamber 9) Outer reference chamber 10) ph sensing bulb

A pH electrode’s junction is the porous communication point between the electrolyte solution in the reference electrode and the sample itself. Basically the electrode solution must leak out into the sample in order for the electrode 6 to achieve accurate results. In a singlejunction electrode, the junction is in 8 direct contact with the sample, allowing contaminants to pass directly into the electrolyte solution. The contaminants 9 can then attack the reference electrode wire, sometimes quickly destroying the pH electrode itself.

In a double-junction electrode, ions that attack the pH reference electrode signal wire or react with the internal pH reference electrolyte (Ag/AgCl) take much longer to come into contact with the pH reference signal wire 10 and internal pH reference wire. These contaminants must migrate through the first (outer) reference junction, build up a concentration in the cell filled with KCl reference electrolyte and finally migrate through the second (internal) reference junction before coming into contact with the pH reference electrode signal wire and internal pH reference electrolyte.

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

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

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

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Ecococo

by Dr. Lynnette Morgan

While we all know coir is a by-product of the coconut processing industry, understanding its properties and potential as a horticultural growing medium can be slightly more complex than the other inert substrates‌ Coconut fibre—or, coir—is a widely used and recognized hydroponic substrate. Available in a range of products, brands and grades, coir is essentially an eco medium. A healthy, well-run coconut fibre system will become a habitat for a diversity of beneficial microbes that enjoy the luxury of organic matter, plentiful oxygen and humic substances. This in turn creates what many of us aspire to: a more balanced approach to hydroponics where microbes and plants can live in harmony and both benefit from a disease-free and growthpromoting root zone environment.

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Coconut fibre holds good levels of moisture while being highly oxygenated.

To achieve this balance however, the certain standards for hydroponic production. It must also be treated in a slightly different way to other mediums and growers need to be aware that not all coco products are created equal.

COCO FIBRE: SOME BACKGROUND has had a rather disappointing reputation in the past. In the early days, little was understood about the properties of this organic growing medium. It was poorly processed and had major problems with nitrogen draw down (high levels of this means nitrogen applied to the coir in the early stages of plant growth would not be available for plant growth, even if fullstrength nutrient was applied), high cation exchange capacity (CEC) and retention of ions like calcium and iron, extremely high levels of sodium and a naturally occurring potassium content that growers did not take into

particularly pleasing growth results despite the medium having almost ideal physical characteristics. However, once the properties of this medium began to be more understood, and processors realized the potential of

the expanding horticultural market, correct processing started to ensure we had improved-quality coco being supplied for hydroponic use.

The coco we use in hydroponics today is processed from the outside layer (mesocarp) of coconut husks that consists mainly of coarse tough rial known as coir dust. Harvested seawater, however, since this leaves extremely high levels of sodium in the substrate—something which is undesirable for hydroponic use). This process is called retting and it makes

other uses, while the coir pith undergoes further processing and decomposition that makes it suitable as a plant growth medium. During this process, the high nitrogen draw down that als—such as high levels of naturally occurring potassium—and the CEC of the coco (this is so the medium does not retain ions such as calcium and iron). Further processing of some high-value coco growing mediums can also occur, which includes preconditioning and buffering so that the substrate has minimal effect on the composition of the nutrient solution surrounding the root zone.

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eco coco Because coco is a natural product, there are variations in the chemical and physical properties of this medium depending on its source and supplier.

Suppliers of high-grade coco carry out regular testing of their product to check for any irregularities in supply and then correct for these. However, while there are excellent brands of coco on the market, these are also still poor-quality supplies still being sold as a cheap growing medium. As such, growers need to select and only use a reputable brand.

A young coconut tree; coir is a renewable resource.

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

getting the beSt from coco—different productS for different uSeS There are many different grades of horticultural coco and some have been specifically designed for different plants and systems. While orchids prefer a very coarse coco chip, the propagation and germination of small seeds requires a much finer grade that will hold sufficient moisture and oxygen.

While the high water-holding capacity of coir dust is great in some situations,

it can create problems with over saturation of the root zone, and grades of coco commonly used in grow slabs tend to consist of a mixture of longer coarse fibres, or flakes, of coco that keep the substrate open and aerated, and finer particles that hold more moisture. These grades of coco are ideal for longer term hydroponic crops, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, peppers and cut flowers, because the fibres help prevent the substrate from packing down over time. These properties mean also high-quality coco fibre can be used for many successive crops before finally being recycled as a soil conditioner or mulch.

Aside from different grades, coco also comes in a range of different products—from differently sized compressed bricks to grow slabs to pre-expanded, ready-to-use bagged product.

Compressed bricks of coco fibre keep the cost of shipment to a minimum—a typical 5-kg. block of compressed coco can be expanded in water to create over 65 L of growing substrate. Another advantage of coco bricks is that, once expanded, the media can be used to fill any size or shape of growing bed, pot or bag (the disadvantage is that time is required for the media to fully expand and some labour is needed to fill the growing plots). Loose coco placed into growing pots or containers can be easily inspected for moisture level by checking the appearance of the top of the substrate or by feeling the moisture level of the coco just below the surface. However, this is more difficult with wrapped and expanded coco grow slabs. coco conditioning and nutrientS While coco fibre is relatively easy to use as a hydroponic substrate, there are some tips for getting the best from this medium. First, always buy a reliable brand and one that is specified for hydroponic use. There are coco mulch products available on the general gardening market, but these might not have been processed sufficiently for hydroponic use and might contain high levels of unwanted salts. These products

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eco coco

Sometimes there is more than one use for a coconut.

are simply designed to be used as soil conditioners or mulch rather than stand alone plant growth mediums. If in doubt, a leach test can help determine if a coco product is suitable for hydroponic use. Simply run clean, distilled or RO water through a small sample of the coco several times and measure the EC of the leachate of the water. A high EC will indicate the presence of salts, usually potassium and sodium, and indicates the product is not suitable for hydroponics.

Secondly, while preconditioned or buffered coco products are a good place to start, it pays to carry out a little extra conditioning before planting out. The coco fibre should be fully expanded with clean water and then left in a warm growing environment for a few days. During this time, a dilute solution of coco nutrients can be applied to runoff and any mixtures of beneficial microbes, trichoderma and organic supplements (in diluted state) can also be applied. Recheck the EC of the solution draining form the coco before planting to make sure everything is okay in the root zone (ideally the EC in the root zone should be below 1.6 at planting).

Thirdly, when using coco it is important to apply the right nutrient product.

Coco growing media is not like many other soilless substrates that arrive 70

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

pre-sterilised, chemically inert with a low CEC and with a minimal effect on the composition of the nutrient. Coco contains naturally occurring potassium, which is considered a bonus since potassium is a major plant nutrient; however, this needs to be accounted for in the nutritional program of the plants. Coco also has other effects on the composition of the nutrient solution applied, so levels of nitrate, phosphate, calcium, magnesium and iron might need to be adjusted to allow for these properties.

Finally, remember that coco is a living substrate and it should be treated as an entire eco-system consisting of beneficial microbes that make their home in the coco particles. This beneficial microbial life plays an important role in soilless systems as many fungi have a protective effect on the plant’s root system, have been proven to suppress plant pathogens and have other possible benefits with nutrient uptake and plant growth. While other growing substrates start out as sterile, coco is best left in its original state or even inoculated with populations of beneficial microbes such as trichoderma. These populations of beneficial microbes in coco are to be encouraged and hash sterilising chemicals, such as chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide and even boiling water, should not be used on coco substrates for that reason.

coco problemS All growing mediums can have their problems. Although coco is generally easy to use, it still needs to be monitored for over saturation, EC and salt buildup.

Coco can look slightly dry on the surface and still be fully moist in the root zone, so checking the moisture level a few centimeters below the surface is recommended. Moisture should appear when the coco is squeezed between the fingers, but the surface should not appear wet—overly damp coco can attract fungus gnats, as well as reduce oxygen in the root zone.

Coco usually maintains pH within an optimal range; however, EC can build over time, so it should be checked— particularly under warm growing conditions. Because of the nature of coco growing media, the EC around the plant’s roots might be different to that in the leachate or the solution draining from the growing slabs, pots or bags.

However, a quick and simple extraction sample EC test can be carried out on coco media to determine the actual EC around the root zone. For an extraction test, a small sample of coco is taken from the growing media after it has been in use for a few weeks. Then 100g of these combined samples is measured out (the coco should be damp, but not overly saturated). This sample of coco

is placed in a jar and 30 ml. of RO water is added and the mixture shaken 50 times. This is allowed to sit overnight to allow extraction of nutrient ions into the water. The resulting mix is then re-shaken and filtered to remove particles, and the pH and EC can be measured from the remaining liquid.

The ideal pH range of the extract for most crops is between 5.5 and 6.2. Ideal EC levels vary depending on the stage of plant development, the growing environment and the crop being grown; however, a general range is between EC 1.0 and 2.5 (tomatoes can be grown at much higher EC values, particularly with commercial crops). Larger scale growers and those in commercial production will often have the coco extract sent to a lab for a complete nutrient analysis, which determines the levels and ratios of each of the elements in the nutrient solution so that fine tuning adjustments can be made.

These days, good-quality coco has been proven to be a superior growth substrate for a large number of different hydroponic crops. It also has the advantage of being from a renewable and environmentally friendly source. By treating coco as living substrate and allowing natural microbe populations to flourish, coco can become part of a more eco-friendly hydroponic system.

References Abad, M., Fornes, F., Carrion, C., & Noguera, V. (2005). Physical properties of various coconut coir dusts compared to peat. HortScience, 40(7), 2138-3144.

Ghehsareh, A. M., Borji, H., & Jafarpour, M. (2011). Effect of some culture substrates (date-palm peat, cocopeat and perlite) on some growing indices and nutrient element uptake in greenhouse tomato. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 5(12), 1437-1442.

Prasad, M. (1997). Physical and chemical properties of coir dust. Acta Hort, 450, 21-29.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

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yOu Tell uS

Gorilla Grow Tent Erik Elder of Gorilla Grow Tents recently spoke with Maximum Yield about an innovative indoor gardening strategy that involves increasing vertical growing space using larger-than-life grow tents.

how was your company started, and who are the people behind gorilla grow tent?

Frustrated with the current selection of grow tents, a group of California growers, designers and engineers collaborated in San Francisco in the United States in 2011 to revolutionise the future of indoor gardening. Their goal was simple: produce the thickest, strongest and most durable grow tent that could also adjust vertically to instantly increase much needed grow space. The message was clear: let’s create the dream design that will completely redefine what it means to grow in a tent. Let’s transform what “grow tent” even means. Let’s create an entirely new indoor growing environment that is safe, smart, big, strong, tall, quiet, odourproof, stealthy, insulated, durable and long-lasting. After multiple design revisions and patent submissions, the results exceeded expectations. Some early adopters believe our tents actually transcend the term “tent” and more

:

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

accurately compare them to more traditional permanent and structural grow spaces like basements and attics.

When it came time to name our new creation, we decided to honour the great gorilla, which exemplifies many of the same traits as our new creation: strong, reliable, durable and intelligent. Kip Andersen and Nick Schweitzer were the lead designers of the Gorilla Grow Tent. what is your company’s philosophy?

Build the tallest, thickest, strongest and most user-friendly premium grow tent on the market today. what is something about your company or team that might surprise our readers?

We really listen to our customers and hence are always innovating new product features to meet customer demands. For example, we are releasing new sizes in March 2013 because many customers really wanted our product but couldn’t make our current sizes really work for their grow environment. what are the distinguishing features of your grow tents versus other grow tents?

Gorilla Grow Tents are the only height-adjusting grow tent in the indoor gardening marketplace featuring a patent-pending adjustable height extension kit that gives the user the ability to increase growing height from 2.13 m to 2.44, 2.74 and even 3.05 m tall. This feature will enable plants to grow up to 50% larger at the tallest height extension.

Only with a Gorilla Grow Tent can one experience crouch-free manoeuvring without banging one’s head on low hanging lights. In addition, Gorilla Grow Tents are the thickest grow tents out there at 1680D (other tents are 200D or 600D). The unique “diamond” reflective walls provide greater reflectivity and even lumen

redistribution, thus preventing hotspots. Finally, Gorilla Grow Tents are supported by strong metal poles that can withstand up to 136.08 kg of components hanging from the top of the pole structure. what is your most popular tent size? why do you think that is?

Our most popular tent size is the 1.52 by 1.52 m. I think it’s the most popular size because it will comfortably fit a 1.22 by 1.22 ebb-and-flow grow table, which is the most common ebb-and-flow table size. who should be using gorilla grow tents? are they exclusively for hydroponic use or is it possible to use them with soil?

It is possible to utilise hydroponic grow systems or soilbased grow applications with Gorilla Grow Tents. Because of the ultra-thick waterproof pool, a soil-based gardener won’t have to worry about leaking water out of the tent as the pool will catch any over-filled bucket, pot or reservoir. Similarly, the hydroponic gardener won’t have to worry about overfilling their hydroponic reservoirs and saturating the tent floors because the waterproof pool will catch any excess water. what components make up the gorilla grow tents?

Cross-woven 1680D threaded mesh fabric makes up the fabric portion of the Gorilla Grow Tent exterior.

The diamond reflective walls on the interior of the tent distribute lumens equally and decrease the instance of hot spots. The tent poles are made of galvanized steel.

is there anything exciting happening in the r&d stage that you are at liberty to share with us?

We are releasing very, very large tents in the near future. Stay tuned. what words of wisdom can you share about the business, the industry, or the future of the industry?

The industry seems to be changing with current technology in terms of better materials being used in the construction of products. There is also a much greater emphasis on sustainable products and components. In addition, the use of cloud-based software applications is allowing indoor gardeners to monitor their indoor gardens remotely from other locations.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

73

TalKInG ShOP

AT A GLANCE

company:

the Grow Home

Owner:

west Sussex’s newest hydroponic supply shop called The Grow Home opened in July 2012 to serve the area’s growing demand for indoor gardening start-up and maintenance supplies.

terry Campbell

location:

unit 26 Bolney Grange Industrial Park, Stairbridge Lane, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 5PB

Phone:

+44 (0) 1444 244 414

Website:

first4hydroponics.com

e-mail:

thegrowhome@hotmail.co.uk

Motto:

“the love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.” – Gertrude Jekyll

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Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

Before opening The Grow Home, owner Terry Campbell was working in the building recruitment industry. Things were going fine for a while, but when the economy became somewhat unstable, Terry decided a change was in order. His brief exposure to retail hydroponics occurred while he was working as a volunteer with Anthony at Britelite Hydroponics in Croydon. This was where Terry truly learned the retail ropes and the inner workings of the hydroponics retail industry. The exposure was enough to inspire him to open up his own store. “Anthony and his mates there were absolutely fantastic and taught me everything I needed to know,” said a confident Terry. “There were many paths I could have chosen, but through the knowledge and understanding I’ve acquired thanks to the chaps at Britelite, I felt strong enough to go it alone and set up my own place.

Hydroponics is a unique market that is still growing and there is a lot of love out there for growing—especially hydroponically!”

The Grow Home sells everything required to set up and maintain all sorts of indoor gardens, including hydroponics, aeroponics and aquaponics systems; ventilation; propagation equipment; lamps; odour control; nutrients; grow media and soils; fans and much more. The store doesn’t exclude anything.

“We started on a large-scale rather than starting small and working our way up. This way our customers are able to browse through our endless products and equipment we have to offer on display in our superstore.

Meeting new customers and interacting with all the different diverse characters that comes through our door is always a pleasure.”

One of the special things about The Grow Home is that a lot of the equipment is set up as live demos or fully displayed, adding value for the customers. “Our aim was to produce a visually pleasing and customer-friendly atmosphere so that our clients feel comfortable and come back time and time again. We are definitely not just your local grow shop; our live demo

As you can see the Grow Home has everything you need!

displays offer a chance for the shopper to view and inspect the equipment before purchase, check specifications and ask for simple and friendly advice.

We at The Grow Home supply all the high-end leading brands, such as our favourites like Dutch Pro, Canna and Plant Magic to name a few. Simply put, if you need it, we can get it!” says Terry.

There has been a lot of interest in The Grow Home since it opened, but it hasn’t come

without effort. When asked about the challenges of starting up a retail store, Terry mentioned that learning the complexity of managing new business bank accounts, and dealing with the occasional sales rep that fails to fully deliver, can be tough. In addition, he admits that the retail world can also be a struggle on the odd slow day. “As all retailers know, a quiet day is a gentle kick in the genitalia,” he jokes.

It’s also been tough choosing financially viable marketing techniques, and walking that fine line between overcharging and undercharging for postage and packaging, yet the passion Terry has for the growing industry has ensured his success. “As well as conquering insomnia, I’ve learned to be broad-minded and to be open to new ideas. I learn something new every day.”

Terry says it’s also the people he meets that keeps him motivated.

“Personally, just meeting new people in an industry that you have a common passion for is a winner for me.

PErsonally, just meeting new

people in an industry that you have a common passion for is a winner for me.”

Showing off some of the leading brands at Grow Home.

Hydroponics and indoor gardening is a business that’s only growing, and getting bigger and better each year. I’m proud to be a part of it,” he says.

As far as the marketing challenge, Terry relies on old-fashioned word of mouth, and makes sure he is listed in print and digital company directories.

He also publishes regular fliers, keeps his logo on the company vehicle and maintains an attractive website. “We have a superb website [that] we use to distribute all over the country using the fastest couriers possible. We cater for all those growers across the south coast of England and if the order is in the local area, we will deliver direct.”

It might be the marketing attracting people to The Grow Home, but it’s the positive attitudes that keep them coming back.

“Our company strengths are our professionalism and our knowledge; you only have to enter our superstore to appreciate this. For us, it’s all about the customer, without sounding too cheesy—but hey, we all love a bit of cheese!”

You can find The Grow Home Superstore located in Bolney Grange Industrial Park in West Sussex just off the A23 Hickstead & Burgess Hill turn off in between Brighton and Crawley.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

75

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InDuSTry’S LATEST CANNA Goes YouTube CANNA finally launched its own YouTube channel (CANNA Official), where you can watch all the Need to Know videos—which are filled with tips and tricks and useful information about CANNA products. You can subscribe, rate and comment the channel, or add the videos to your own website. CANNA will continue to upload new videos in the future. To watch all the videos, go to youtube.com/user/cannaofficial

PLANT!T Dirt Pots Made from porous breathable fabric, PLANT!T Dirt Pots allow plants to thrive, promote exceptional root health and vigorous plant growth. This also leads to superior drainage and aeration. The soft-sided construction allows the planter to conform to the grower’s terrain, making Dirt Pots the ideal choice for all growing areas. The planters have reinforced seams and strength-tested fabric, so they won’t tear when supporting even the heaviest crop. PLANT!T Dirt Pots manage plant temperatures, keeping plants cooler during summer and warmer in winter.

PLANT!T Dirt Pots are available in three different sizes and all come with carrying handles. Visit plantit-growit.com for more information and ask your nearest retailer! Follow PLANT!T on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter (@Plantit_Growit).

VitaLink Growing Media Leaflets Want more information about the range of VitaLink Growing Media? Ask your local retailer for the VitaLink Growing Media leaflets today!

VitaLink offer a range of growing media—VitaLink Professional Enriched Soil, VitaLink Professional Coir Mix and VitaLink Professional Coir Chips— with a range of leaflets to go alongside to help provide more information and guidance about these products. These handy leaflets tell you all about the products, the benefits of using them and some guidance on their usage.

Trusted by growers for more than 10 years, VitaLink is the United Kingdom’s own Professional Plant Nutrition, Additive and Growing Media range. All of the products have been developed by highly qualified plant scientists in collaboration with a UK university. The VitaLink range is scientifically proven to give plants healthy growth and maximum yield.

For more information about VitaLink or to find your local retailer, please visit vitalink.eu or follow VitaLink on Facebook or Twitter.

ARKA Botanica—the Exclusive European Distributor of Microbe Life Hydroponics ARKA Botanica GmbH has been awarded exclusive European distribution (excluding the United Kingdom) of the new, top-selling Microbe Life Premium Hydroponics product line—designed specifically to improve plant processes from top to bottom! Aiding foliar photosynthesis and root zone biological functions, this advanced technology targets nonchemical, microbial plant enhancement with results in better, cleaner and more suitable methods for growing plants and crops. Visit microbelifehydro.com or arka-biotech.de

EasyGrow—the Exclusive United Kingdom Distributor of Microbe Life Hydroponics EasyGrow began supplying horticultural wholesalers with food- and plant-safe foils and reflective sheeting in 1998, but grew to include supplying the highest-quality horticultural products to over 30 countries worldwide. With a UK Food Grade manufacturing standard second-to-none (proven by, and adhered to, British retail accreditations), EasyGrow won the award for Best UK Exporter! EasyGrow has grown throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and was therefore chosen as the exclusive United Kingdom distributor of the new, top-selling Microbe Life Premium Hydroponics product line—designed specifically to improve plant processes from top to bottom. Aiding foliar photosynthesis and root zone biological functions, this advanced technology targets non-chemical, microbial plant enhancement with results in better, cleaner and more suitable methods for growing crops. Visit microbelifehydro.com or easy-grow.co.uk Horticultural

LUMii DIGITA The new LUMii DIGITA ECO Ballast is a fully electronic ballast. It uses technology that is microprocessor controlled and works at a higher frequency than the standard magnetic ballast, meaning more light to your plants! The LUMii DIGITA is also more efficient than magnetic ballasts, which means that you get more output per watt of energy consumed.

This ballast is one of the smallest and coolest running available; LUMii has achieved this by creating a component set that does not generate a lot of heat; therefore, there is no need for a fan. It is ultra-lightweight and has built-in safety features that protect the units’ circuitry if a short is detected.

Visit grow-lumii.com or ask your local retailer for more information. Also, don’t forget to follow LUMii on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.

PowerPlant AeroTube The PowerPlant AeroTube is the latest in-line air-cooled reflector, with toughened glass. This innovative product allows air to be pulled and extracted through the reflector and over the lamp, making it easier to control temperature and taking away any heat produced by the lamp. The PowerPlant AeroTube comes in three sizes (125 mm, 150 mm and 200 mm) and features an integral lamp holder, along with a two-part external reflector and a 4-m IEC cord set. The external reflector allows superior light output and spread. For more information, ask your nearest retailer.

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

79

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors 1st Hydroponics

Unit 5 K-Line House, West Rd. Ipswich, Suffolk UK IP3 9FG Tel: +44 (0) 1473 279829 www.1st-hydroponics.co.uk

21st Century Garden

Unit A6., Bounds Green Ind. Es., Ringway London, Greater London UK N11 2UD Tel: +44 (0) 2083 614659 www.21stcenturygarden.co.uk

3 Counties Hydroponics

Unit 52, Rober t Court Ind.E s. Britten Rd. Reading, Berkshire UK RG2 0AU Tel: +44 (0) 1189 874758

3 Counties Hydroponics

Aquaculture

Clever Green

Unit 3, Pkwy One, Pkwy Dr. Sheffield, South Yorkshire UK S9 4WU Tel: +44 (0) 8456 445544 www.aquaculture-hydroponics.co.uk

35 Ketley Bus. Pk. Waterloo Rd., Telford, Shropshire UK TF1 5JD Tel: +44 (0) 1952 257200 www.clevergreen.co.uk

Aquatech Horticultural Lighting

Crofters Bio Gardens

Unit 3F, Spa Fields Ind. Es. New St. Slaithwait Huddersfield, West Yorkshire UK HD7 5BB Tel: +44 (0) 1484 842632

Ashton Hydroponics Ltd. Unit 3 Park Parade Ind. Es. Welbeck St. S. Ashton-Under-Lyna, Manchester UK O4L 67PP Tel: +44 (0) 1613 391673 www.ashton-hydroponics.co.uk

____________________________

The Lodge, 113 Invicta Rd. Dartford, Kent UK DA2 6AY Tel: +44 (0) 1322 273444

3 Counties Hydroponics Unit 13., Chiltern Bus. Ctr. Cowley, Oxford UK OX4 6NG Tel: +44 (0) 1865 771747

3 Counties Hydroponics

Unit 11, Olds Close, Olds Approach Watford, Herts UK WD18 8RU Tel: +44 (0) 1923 774486

3 Countries Hydroponics

Unit 12., Yew Tree Ind. Es., Mill Hall Aylesford, Maidstone UK ME20 7ET Tel: +44 (0) 1622 790456

3 Countries Hydroponics

Unit 10., Woodley Yard Cherstsey Bridge Rd. Chertsey, Surrey UK KT16 8LF Tel: +44 (0) 1932 562174

3 Countries Hydroponics

Unit 9., Galley Hill Yard Waltham Abbey, Essex UK EN9 2AG Tel: +44 (0) 1992 652301

A-Zee Hydro Ltd.

Unit C4, Suttons Bus. Ctr.New Rd. Rainham, Essex UK RM13 8DE Tel: +44 (0) 1708 551199

____________________________

Addloes Lighting & Hydroponics

Enhanced Urban Gardening

Unit 3, The Old Maltings, George St. Newark, Nottinghamshire UK NG24 1LU Tel: +44 (0) 1636 650189

Big Stone River Garden Center Unit 1 East Gate Grimsby, Lincolnshire UK DN3 29BA Tel: +44 (0) 1472 241114 Bill & Ben’s Hydro World Unit 15 & 16 Erin Transfer Way Bumters Farm Trading Estate Shippenham UK SN1 46LH rob@billandbens.com

Blooming Borders Unit 3, Borders Bus Pk. Longtown Carlisle, Cumbria UK CA6 5TD Tel: +44 (0) 1228 792587 www.bloomingbordersltd.co.uk 9597 Manningham Ln. Bradford, West Yorkshire UK BD1 3BN Tel: +44 (0) 1274 729205 www.bradfordhydroponics.co.uk

Branching Out Unit E, The Old Brewery, Durnford St. Ashton Gate, Bristol UK BS3 2AW Tel: +44 (0) 1179 666996 www.hydroponics-online.co.uk

____________________________

Amazing Garden Supplies (Bristol)

Unit 3 Moravian Bus.Pk., Moravian Rd. Kingswood, Bristol UK BS15 8NF Tel: +44 (0) 1179 605566

47 Upperton Rd. Eastbourne, East Sussex UK BN21 1LT Tel: +44 (0) 1323 732241

_____________________________ Basement Lighting Ltd.

Allbright

Unit 6 Eastlake Close., Litchard Ind. Es. Bridgend, South Wales UK CF31 2AL Tel: +44 (0) 1656 663030

Eastbourne Hydroponics

Unit 11 Whitehall Properties Towngate Wyke, Bradford UK BD12 9JQ Tel: +44 (0) 1274 694444

Bright Green UK Ltd.

Amazing Garden Supplies (Bridgend)

Unit 61 Riverside III, Sir Thomas Longley Road, MEdway City Estate Rochester, KENT ME2 4BH Tel: 01634 716764 www.thegreenroomvip.co.uk

Discount Hydroponics

1 Bus. Bldg. Waltergrave St. Hastings, East Sussex UK TN34 1SJ Tel: +44 (0) 1424 428186

42-44 Princess Rd., Hull, Yorkshire UK HU5 2RD Tel: +44 (0) 1482 341925 www.brightgreen-uk.co.uk

Brit Crops Ltd Unit 9 OJ’s Ind. Pk.Claybank Rd. Portsmouth, Hampshire UK PO3 5SX Tel: +44 (0) 2392 669111 www.britcropshydroponics.co.uk ____________________________ Britlite Hydroponics

Elements Hydroponic Center 44 Auster Rd. Clifton Moor, York UK YO30 4XA Tel: +44 (0) 1904 479979 www.elementshydroponics.com

152 London Rd. Workingham, Berkshire UK RG40 1SU Tel: +44 (0) 1189 890510 www.enhancedurbangardening.co.uk

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 3 Park Works, 16-18 Park Road, Kingston-Upon-Thames, Surrey, KT2 6BX Tel: +44(0) 208 546 3444 ____________________________

Future Garden 15 Rob Johns Rd., Widford Ind.Est., Essex, Chelmsford CM1 3AG +44 (0) 1245 265929 info@futuregarden.co.uk www.futuregarden.co.uk Future Garden Unit E., The Acorn Centre Roebuck Rd., Hainault Bus.Pk., Essex, Ilford IG6 3TU +44 (0) 0208 265929 info@futuregarden.co.uk www.futuregarden.co.uk

Garden Secrets UK Ltd.

Unit 3 Hollybush Est. Whitchurch, Cardiff UK CF14 7DS Tel: +44 (0) 2920 651792 www.gardensecretsuk.co.uk

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 59 T Marchant Estate, 42-72 Verney Road, South Bermondsey, SE16 3DH +44 (0) 207 394 0629 ____________________________

Great Stuff Hydroponics

24 Collingwood Ct. Riverside Park Ind. Es. Middlesbrough, UK TS2 1RP Tel: +44 (0) 1642 224544 www.hydroponics-hydroponics.com

Great Stuff Hydroponics

30 C Ellemeres Ct. Leechmere Ind. Es. Sunderland, UK SR2 9UA Tel: +44 (0) 1914 474098 www.hyroponics-hydroponics.com

Green Daze Hydroponics Ashington

Unit 9 Waterside Ct. North Seaton Bus. Pk. Ashington, Northumberland UK NE63 0YG Tel: +44 (0) 1670 818003 www.greendazehydroponics.co.uk

Green Daze Hydroponics Gateshead

Unit F Totterdown Bridge Est, Albert Rd. St. Philips, Bristol, Somerset UK BS2 0XH Tel: +44 (0) 1179 713000 www. greenshorticulture.co.uk Greenstream Hydroponics 12-14 Vivian Rd. Birmingham, Harbourne UK B17 0DS Tel: +44 (0) 1214 262675

Greensea Hydroponics

Unit 1G. Gregory Rd. Mildenhall, Bury St. Edmonds, Suffolk UK IP28 7PP Tel: +44 (0) 1638 715350 www.greensea-hydroponics.co.uk

___________________________

Greenthings Hydroponics

Greenfinger-Hydroponics Unit 38 Silicon Business Centre,28 Wadsworth Road, Perivale,UB6 7JZ Tel: +44 (0) 208 998 2034 ____________________________

Unit 1, Adjewhella Chapel Barriper Camborne, Cornwall UK TR14 0QW Tel: +44 (0) 1209 611870 www.greenthings.co.uk

Grotec Hydroponics

393 Manchester Rd., Rochdale, Greater Manchester UK OL11 3PG Tel: +44 (0) 1706 750293 www.grotec.co.uk

Grotech Ltd. Green Spirit Hydroponics Ltd.

Unit 6, Rockingham Business Park, Rockingham Row, Birdwell, UK S705TW Tel: +44 (0) 1226 399837 www.greenspirit-hydroponics.com

____________________________

Unit 21. Saddlers Hall Farm, London Rd. Basildon, Essex UK SS13 2HD Tel: +44 (0) 1268 799828 www.grotechonline.co.uk

Grow 4 Good Ltd.

22i Beehive Workshops Durham, UK DH1 2X1 Tel: +44 (0) 1913 757667 www.grow4good.net

Grow Den

Garforth Hydroponics

Back off 11a main street Leeds, UK lS25 1DS www.garforthhydroponics.co.uk

Greens Horticulture

www.greenstream.co.uk ____________________________

Esoteric Hydroponics Ltd. 8 Martyr Rd. Guildford, Surrey UK GU1 4LF Tel: +44 (0) 1483 596484 www.1-hydroponics.co.uk

Greenleaf Systems

Unit 26, Millers Bridge Ind. Es., Seymour, Bootle, Liverpool UK L20 1EE Tel: +44 (0) 1519 331113 www.greenleafsystemsmerseyside.co.uk

The Green Room (Indoor Gardens) Ltd.

Unit 2, Bloomsgrove Ind. Es.Ilkeston Rd. Radford, Nottingham UK NG7 3JB Tel: +44 (0) 1159 782345 www.croftersbiogardens.com

Aztec Garden Unit 1A Roughan Ind.Es. Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk UK IP30 9ND Tel: +44 (0) 1359 271876 www.aztec-garden.co.uk

16-A Maple Rd., Winton Bourmouth, Dorset UK BH9 2PN Tel: +44 (0) 1202 524525; www.addloes.com

Unit 6., The Rise Edgware, Middlesex UK HA8 8NR Tel: +44 (0) 2089 582426

___________________________

Eighteen Twelve Ltd.

Bradford Hydroponics

Acorn Horticulture 65 Deep Ln. Sheffield, UK S5 0DU Tel: +44 (0) 1142 458581 www.acornhorticulture.co.uk ____________________________

Green Finger

190 Hessle Rd. Hull, East Yorkshire UK HU3 3BE Tel: +44 (0) 1482 222425

Green Spirit Hydroponics Ltd. 8-10 Stanley St. Sheffield, UK S3 8HJ Tel: +44 (0) 1142 753353 www.greenspirit-hydroponics.com

____________________________ Green Stream

2 Horthfield Rd., Rainham, Kent UK ME8 8 BJ Tel: +44 (0) 1634 239333

Grow Green Ltd.

15-17 Green Ln., Castle Bromwich Birmingham, UK B36 0AY Tel: +44 (0) 121 241 6445

Grow Green Trade Ltd.

12-14 Vivian Rd. Harbourne, Birmingham UK B17 ODS Tel: +44 (0) 1214 262675 www.greenstream.co.uk

Unit 4 Castle Trading Est. La Grange, Tamwarth, UK B79 7X0 Tel: +44 (0) 1827 62766

Green World

96-98 Shaw Heath Rd., Stockport, Manchester UK SK3 8BP Tel: +44 (0) 8452 725266 www.growshaw.co.uk

1618 Market Vaults Scarborough, UK YO11 1EU Tel: +44 (0) 1723 370900 www.greenworld.ne.uk

Greener than Life

575- 577 Holderness Rd. Hull, East Riding UK HU8 9AA Tel: +44 (0) 1482 374201

Greengrass Indoor Gardening Supplies

Grow Shaw

Grow Zone UK

Unit 7, West Court, Crantock Street Newquay, Cornwall UK TR7 1JL Tel: +44 (0) 1637 806115 www.growzoneuk.com

GroSupplies

Bub’s allotment

Sovereign House, Ellen Terrace Sulgrave, Washington, Tyne & Wear NE37 3AS Tel: +44 (0) 1914 153345 sales@grosupplies.com www.grosupplies.com

Unit 79 (A) Carlton Ind. Es. Barnsley, South Yorkshire UK S71 3HW Tel: +44 (0) 8456 445544 www.aquaculture-hydroponics.co.uk

The Rural Granary Business Centre Unit 4 North Street Hellingly, East Sussex UK BN27 4DU Tel: +44 (0) 7528 098103 Web: www.bubsallotment.co.uk

Units 8-11 Coleshill Trade Park, Station Rd. Coleshill, Birmingham UK B46 1HT Tel: +44 (0) 8453 442333 www.growell.co.uk

Aquaculture

Chrissie’s Garden

Anglia Hydroponics

62 A Straight Rd. Boxted, Colchester, Essex UK C04 5RD Tel: +44 (0) 1206 272677 www.angliahydroponics.co.uk

Aquaculture

Unit 3, Asher Ln. Bus. Pk. Asher Ln. Ripley, Derbyshire UK DE5 3RE Tel: +44 (0) 8456 445544 www.aquaculture-hydroponics.co.uk

80

Unit 11 Roman Ind. Es. Croydon, UK CRO 2DT Tel: +44 (0) 2086 834424 www.britelite-hydroponics-uk.com

Unit 33 Portsmouth Enterprise Ctr. Quartermain Rd. Portsmouth, UK PO3 5QT Tel: +44 (0) 2392 667887

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

10 Wellington St. Gateshead, UK NE8 2AJ Tel: +44 (0) 1914 789107 www.greendazehydroponics.co.uk

____________________________

Unit 5A Alexander Ct. Hazleford Way Newstead, Nottingham UK NG15 0DQ Tel: +44 (0) 1623 755055

____________________________

GroWell Coleshill GREEN FEVER 18 Hartsill Rd., Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire, UK ST4 7QU Tel: +44 (0) 1782 414448 www.green-fever.co.uk ____________________________

Greenhouse Effect Unit 2 Eagle Farm Cranfield Rd. Wavendon, Milton Keynes UK MK17 8AU Tel: +44 (0) 1908 585283 ____________________________

GroWell Dudley

Unit 52 Enterprise Trad. Es. off Pedmore Rd. Brierly Hill, Dudley UK DY5 1TX Tel: +44 (0) 8453 456991 www.growell.co.uk

GroWell Fullham

1 Royal Parade 247 Dawes Rd. Fullham, London UK SW6 7RE Tel: +44 (0) 8453 445174 www.growell.co.uk

GroWell Hockley Heath

Ivy House Farm, Grange Rd. Hockley Heath, Solihull UK B94 6PR Tel: +44 (0) 8433 571640 www.growell.co.uk

GroWell Mail Order Division PO Box 3255 Warwick, UK CV34 5GH Tel: +44 (0) 8453 455177 www.growell.co.uk

GrowinGreen

Unit 6, Queens drive industrial estate, Newhall, Swadlincote, DE11 0EG 01253 675722 www.growingreen.co.uk Growing Life #6 Newington Green Rd. London, UK N1 4RX Tel: +44 (0) 2070 339541 www.growing-life.com

Groworks

94 Upper Wickham Lane Welling, Kent, UK DA16 3HQ Tel: +44 (0) 2088 545160 Groworks Unit F16 Northfleet Industrial Estate Lower Road, Gravesend, UK DA11 9SW Tel: +44 (0) 1273 624327

Groworks

Unit 4 Belltower Industrial Estate Roedean Road, Brighton, UK BN2 5RU Tel: +44 (0) 1322 838131

Happy Daze Hydroponics Unit 4 Craven Court Hedon Rd. Hull, UK HU9 1NQ Tel: +44 (0) 1482 224299 www.happydazehull.com

____________________________

Hydro 1 Stop

Unit 35 Deykin Pk. Ind. Es. Deykin Ave. Aston, Birmingham UK B67HN Tel: +44 (0) 1213 280876 www.hydro1stop.co.uk Hydro Hobby Unit 4 Brook Farm, Stoneleigh Rd. Gibbet Hill, Coventry UK CV4 7AB Tel: +44 (0) 2476 414161 www.hydrohobby.co.uk

Hydro Station Ltd.

Unit 10 Hillfoot Ind. Es. Hoyland Rd. Sheffield, South Yorkshire UK S38AB Tel: +44 (0) 1142 491636 www.hydrostationltd.co.uk

Hydrodragon Ltd.

113-115 Alfred St. Roath Cardiff, South Glamorgan UK CF24 4UA Tel: +44 (0) 2920 490333 www.hydrodragon.co.ukHydroglo Ltd. The Top Store South Rd., Towerhamlets Dover, Kent UK CT17 OAH Tel: +44 (0) 1304 203199 Web: www.hydroglowltd.co.uk

Hydrogrow Systems Ltd.

Unit 7, Acton Bus. Pk., Fields Farm Rd. Longeaton, Nottingham UK NG10 3FZ Tel: +44 (0) 1159 730007 Web: www.hydrogrowsystems.co.uk

Hydrolite UK Ltd.

215 Denman St., Radford, Nottingham UK NG7 3PS Tel: +44 (0) 1159 785556 www.hydrolite.co.uk Hydroponic Corporation Unit 20, Deeside Ind. Es., Zone 1 Deeside, Flintshire UK SH5 2LR Tel: +44 (0) 1244 289699 www.t-h-c.biz

Hydroponica Ltd.

The Grow Home Hydroponics Unit 26 Bolney Grange Ind.Pk., Burgess Hill West Sussex RH17 5PB +44 (0) 1444 244414 thegrowhome@hotmail.co.uk

____________________________ Happy Gardens Ltd. Unit 9, Kelham Bank Ind Es., Kelham St. Doncaster, South Yorkshire UK DN1 3RE Tel: +44 (0) 1302 761386 Haverhill Hydroponics Centre Unit 14 Spring Rise Falconer Road Haverhill, Suffolk CB97XU +44 (0) 01440709474 www.haverhillhydro.co.uk

HFM Pyrotechnics Ltd.

165A Londford Rd. Cannock, Staffordshire UK WS11 OLD Tel: +44 (0) 1543 500800 www.hfmgroup.com

Hi9THC

Unit 3. Rope Walk,. Coach Rd. Whitehaven, Cumbria UK CA28 7TE Tel: +44 (0) 7821 914646 www.hi9thc.co.uk

130 Doncaster Rd. Wakefield, Yorkshire UK WF1 5JF Tel: +44 (0) 1924 362888 Web: www.hydroponica.biz

Hydroponics.com

Unit 24, Port Talbot Business Units Addison Road Port Talbot, UK SA12 6HZ Tel: +44 (0) 1639 888891 www.hydroponicsdotcom.com

Hydropower

300 Holton Rd. Barry, Vale Of Glamorgan UK CF63 4HW Tel: +44 (0) 7725 551479 www.hydro-power.biz

Hydrosense

47 Scarrots Ln. Newport, Isle of Wright UK PO30 1JD Tel: +44 (0) 1983 522240 Hylton Hydro

Rockington Nursery Blackness Rd. Sunderland, UK SR4 7XT Tel: 01 9155 18453

Hytec Horticulture

Unit 56 Hebden R., Berkley Ind.Es., Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire DN15 8DT Tel: +44(0) 1724 857191

Old Wales Wood Colliery, Mansfield Rd. Sheffield, UK S26 5PQ Tel: +44 (0) 1909 772872 www.hytechorticulture.co.uk

Holland Hydroponics

Junction 10 Hydro

High Street Hydroponics

17 Rondin Rd., Ardwick, Greater Manchester UK M12 6BF Tel: +44 (0) 8458 720570 www.hydroponics.co.uk

Holland Hydroponics Express Unit 4 Leeds Rd. Trade Park. Leeds Rd., Huddersfield, UK HD2 1YR

Holland Hydroponics

Handbridge Mill 5 Parliament St. Burnley, Lancashire UK BB11 5HG Tel: +44 (0) 8458 720590 www..hydroponics.co.uk

Home Grower Ltd.

Unit 8, Oak Court, Crystal Dr. Smethwick, West Midlands UK B66 1QG Tel: +44 (0) 1215 411446 www.thehomegrower.com Huyton Hydroponics & Gardening Supplies Huyton, Mersey Side UK Tel: +44 (0) 1514 820101 www.huytonhydro.co.uk

Hygrow II Hydroponics

Units 3+4, 30 Oslo Road Suttonfields Industrial Estate HULL HU7 0YN, East Yorkshire Tel: +44 (0) 1482 833455 www.hygrow.co.uk

Unit 55, Owen Road Industrial Estate Willenhall, WV13 2PX Tel: 0121 5686850 www.j10hydro.com

Kernow Grow Ltd.

Lothian Hydroponics

172 S Mid St. Bathgate, West Lothian UK EH48 1DY Tel: +44 (0) 1506 650501 Makes Sense Grow Shop The Annex Rear of #20, Barden Rd. Tonbridge, Kent UK TN9 1TX Tel: +44 (0) 1732 507201 www.makessencesrowshop.co.uk

Manchester Hydroponics

Unit 1A, Reliance St. Newton Heath, Manchester UK M40 3AG Tel: +44 (0) 1616 887333 www.manchesterhydroponics.co.uk manchesterhydroponics@yahoo.co.uk

Matilda’s Planet

1 Green Pl. Kenfig, South Wales UK Tel: +44 (0) 7895 567843 dale.hudd@grg.com

Rootzone Hydroponics Ltd. Unit 2 & 3.,The Green Bus.Ctr.,The Causeway Staines, Middlesex UK TW18 3AL +44 (0) 1784 490370 www.hydrowebshop.com

The Hydroponic Warehouse

Sale Hydro

The Inner Garden Ltd.

71 Dane Rd., Sale Manchester, Lancashire UK M33 7BP Tel: +44 (0) 1619 739899 Email: care@salehydroponics.co.uk

Sea of Green UK

25 Eastcott Hill Swindon, Wiltshire UK SN1 3JG Tel: +44 (0) 1793 617046 www.seaofgreen.co.uk

____________________________

Mellow Yellow Hydro Ltd.

Unit B1A Towngate Works., Dark Ln. Mawdesley, Lancashire UK L40 2QU Tel: +44 (0) 1704 822609 www.mellowyellowhydro.co.uk Midland Hydroponics Russells Garden Centre Baginton Coventry UK CV8 3AG Tel: +44 (0) 2476 639109 midhydroponic@aol.com www.maidland-hydroponics.com

Midnight Garden

6 Howlbeck Rd., Guisborough, UK TS14 6LE Tel: +44 (0) 79333 449661

Mile End Hydroponics

265 Wick Rd. London, UK E9 5DG Tel: +44 (0) 2085 330497 www.mile-end-hydroponic.co.uk

Somerset Hydro

Unit4 Technine, Guard Avenue Houndstone Business Park Yeovil Somerset BA22 8YE Tel: +44 (0) 1935 420720 www.somhydro.co.uk

____________________________ South Coast Hydroponics

Unit 8., Enterprise Ind. Es., Enterprise Rd. Horndean, Portsmouth UK PO8 0BB Tel: +44 (0) 2392 598853 www.southcoasthydroponics.com

Southern Hydro Centre

Mousehold Garden Center

9 Mamesbury Rd. Southampton, Hampshire UK S01 SFT Tel: +44 (0) 2380 704080 www.southernhydro.co.uk

Mr. Beam Hydro

Southern Lights #1 25 Fratton Rd. Hampshire, UK PO1 5AB Tel: +44 (0) 1705 811822;

63 Mousehold Ln. Norwich, Norfolk UK NR7 8HP Tel: +44 (0) 1603 413272

Rose Grove Selby Rd. Askern, Doncaster UK DN6 0ES Tel: +44 (0) 1302 708297 www.mr-beam-hydro.com

New Age Hydroponics

Unit 1 Albert Pl., Albert Mill Lower Darwen, Lancashire UK BB3 OQE Tel: +44 (0) 1254 661177

New Leaf Hydroponics

1 Horsewater Wynd, Hawkhill, Dundee UK DD1 5DU Tel: +44 (0) 1382 202556 www.newleafhydroponics.co.uk

Norfolk Lights & Hydroponics Centre Ltd. Unit 2 Guardian Rd., Ind. Es. Norwich, Norfolk UK NR5 8PF Tel: +44 (0) 1603 666199 www.norfolklights.com

North Devon Hydroponics Unit 4 , Abbey Rd.

Barnstaple, Devon UK EX31 1JU Tel: +44 (0) 1271 314999 www.northdevonhydroponics.co.uk

NuGreen Hydroponics

Unit 4 Stirchley Trad. Es., Hazelwell Rd. Stirchley, Birmingham UK B3O 2PF Tel: +44 (0) 1216 855900 www.nugreenhydroponics.co.uk

One Stop Grow Shop

Unit 8, Fenton Ind. Es., Dewsbury Rd. Fenton, Stroke-On-Trent UK ST4 2TE Tel: +44 (0) 1782 212000 www.onestopgrowshop.co.uk

Southern Lights #2

19A Grace Hill.

Folkestone, Kent UK CT20 1HQ Tel: +44 (0) 1303 210003; Tel: +44 (0) 1303 252561

St Albans Hydroponics

Unit 5 London Rd., Bus.Pk., 222 London Rd. St Albans, UK AL1 1PN Tel: +44 (0) 1727 848595 www.stalbanshydroponics.moonfruit.com

Starlite Systems

226 Albert Rd., Plymouth, Devon UK PL2 1AW Tel: +44 (0) 1752 551233 www.starlitesystems.co.uk

Sub-Garden Supplies

45-J Leyton Industrial Village, Argall Ave., Leyton, London UK E10 7QP Tel: +44 (0) 2085 399563

Sunrise Hydroponics

127 Newcastle St., Burslem.

Stoke on Trent, Staffshire UK ST6 3QJ Tel: +44 (0) 1782 813814 www.sunrisehydro.co.uk

The Green Machine Ltd.

Unit 1A., Felin Puleston Ind.Es., Ruabon Rd. Wrexham, UK L13 7RF Tel: +44 (0) 1978 265090 www.thegreenmachineonline.com

11 D. Kernick Ind. Es. Penryn, Cornwall UK TR10 9EP Tel: +44 (0) 3300 104420 www.kernowgrow.co.uk

Planet Hydro

The Grow Den

Unit 11 NorthBridge Works., Storey St. Leicester, Leics UK LE3 5GR Tel: +44 (0) 1162 510800

2 Hothfield Rd. Rainham, Kent UK ME8 8BJ Tel: +44 (0) 1634 239333

King Of Green

Plant Life

The Grow Den Ltd.

18-24 Saint Helens Rd., Westcliff on Sea Westcliff, Essex UK SS0 7LB Tel: +44 (0) 1702 347536 www.kingofgreen.com

Kitbag Hydroponic Warehouse 22 Pool Bank St. Nunaeton, Warwickshire UK CV11 5DB Tel: +44 (0) 2476 641033 ebaystores.co.uk/kitbagshop

Lancaster Hydroponics

Unit 18 Lansil Ind.Es., Caton Rd. Lancaster, Lancashire UK LA1 3PQ Tel: +44 (0) 7961 279279 www.lancasterhydroponics.co.uk

Unit 11, Riverside Wy., Ravensthorpe Ind Es. Dewsbury, West Yorkshire UK WF13 3LG Tel: +44 (0) 1924 492298 www.plantlife.me.uk

Unit 13., Eaves Ct., Eurolink Com.Pk., Bohan Dr. Sittingbourne, Kent UK ME10 3RY Tel: +44 (0) 1795 426264

Plantasia

The Head Gardener

Progrow

The Home Grower

Brill View Farm Ludgershall Rd. Bicester, Oxfordshire UK OX25 1PU Tel: +44 (0) 8707 555225 www.plantasia.co.uk 5 Westwood Units, Alphinbrook Rd. Marsh Barton Trad. Es. Exeter, Devon UK EX2 8QF Tel: +44 (0) 1392 276998 www.progrow.co.uk

Unit 11, Barton Bus. Pk. Eccles, Manchester UK M3O OQR Tel: +44 (0) 1617 079860 www.theheadgardner.net Unit 8., Oak Ct. Odbury, West Midlands UK B66 1QG Tel: +44 (0) 1215 411446 www.thehomegrower.com

Unit 15., Bay Airport Ind.Es., Kingston Pk. Newcastle, Tyne and Wear UK NE3 2EF Tel: +44 (0) 1912 862045 www.thehydroponicwharhouse.co.uk Unit 14., Cornish Wy., West, Galmington Taunton, Somerset UK TA1 5NA Tel: +44 (0) 1823 274791

The Persy Grow Shop

4 Kings Mews.

Brighton, East Sussex UK BN3 2PA Tel: +44 (0) 1273 777335 www.persygrowbox.co.uk

The Plant Pot

69 Ratcliffe Gate, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire UK NG18 2JB Tel: +44 (0) 1623 422711 www.theplantpot.co.uk

Toddington Hydroponics Center Griffin Farm Unit 9., Toddington Dunstable, Bedford UK LU5 6BT Tel: +44 (0) 1582 664765 www.toddingtonhydroponics.co.uk

Triangle Hydroponics

31B., The Triangle , Bournemouth, Dorset UK BH2 5SE Tel: +44 (0) 1202 556661 www.trianglehydroponics.co.uk

U Grow London

Studio12, Imperial Studios, 3-11 Imperial Rd. London, UK SW6 2AG, Tel: +44 (0) 2073 843388 www.ugrow.com

Warehouse Hydroponics

Bank Quay Trading Est., Slutchers Ln. Warrington, Cheshire UK WA1 1PJ Tel: +44 (0) 1925 637837 www.warehousehydroponics.co.uk

ireland Northern Lights

9 Dunluce St. Larne Antrim, Northern Ireland BT40 1JG Tel: +44 (0) 2828 278485 www.northernlightsni.com

The Grow Shop

14 Brews Hill , Nauan, Co. M Fath Ireland OLI Tel: +44 (0) 1772 204455 www.thc.ie

scotland Progrow Scotland

Unit 6., Nasmyth Square Houston Ind.Es. Livingston, West Lothian Scotland EH5 45GG Tel: +44 (0) 1506 430830 www.progrowscotland.co.uk

Abergreen Horticulture Ltd

Arch 8 Palmerston Rd. Aberdeen, Granpian Scotland AB11 5RE Tel: +44 (0) 1224 574737 www.abergreen.co.uk

Kingdom Hydroponics

Unit #12 Carbery Pl., Mitchelson Ind. Es. Kirkcaldy, Fife Scotland KY1 3NE Tel: +44 (0) 1592 655611

Hydra Hydroponics

41 Tower St. Edinburgh, Scotland EH6 7BN Tel: +44 (0) 1315 611332 www.hydraonline.co.uk

Glasgrow

15 Parnie St. Glasgow, Scotland G15RJ Tel: +44 (0) 1415 527522 www.glasgrowhydroponics.co.uk

EZ Grow Perth

77 Scott St. Perth, Scotland PH2 8JR Tel: +44(0) 7521 597308

U-Grow Organic

Unit 11 North Canal Bank St., Port Dundas, Glasgow Scotland G4 9XP +44 (0) 1413 413352 info@u-grow.com www.u-grow.com

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

81

cOMInG uP In May/June 2013

Pest ID anD Control When many of us dream of our ideal hydroponic garden, the thought of plagues and pestilence don’t usually spoil the idyllic image. So, here’s how to pick ‘em out and take ‘em out before they conquer your garden.

eCo-frIenDly HortICultural lIgHtIng Things are looking brighter than ever in the field of horticultural lighting—and it’s going to take a lot less energy to get the job done in the future…

of molDs anD mIlDew Ah, fungi and their relatives fungal protists. Wonderful organisms are they not? Well, from a strictly biological point of view, they are fascinating indeed. From an economic perspective, they are a nightmare.

www.maximumyield.com Maximum Yield May/June will be available in May for free at indoor gardening retail stores and on maximumyield.com Subscriptions are available at maximumyield.com/subscriptions

82

Maximum Yield | March/April 2013

From start to finish this three stage heavyweight bloom boost programme is all about fabulous results!

THE NEW N AME FOR

Better Blooms Are Easy As

Bud Start - Stage 1 Ton O Bud - Stage 2 Bud Boom - Stage 3

A Flying Start

Take the Lead

The Big Finish

Activates the plant’s flowering stage for abundant bud site formation.

Adds real weight to flowers and fruits in the middle stages of development

A nutrient packed formula to ripen and firm fruits and flowers at the end

Can be used with any branded feeding schedule, on soil, coco or hydroponics

Available at your local Hydroponics Store

Innovative Hydroponics www.futureharvesteurope.com

Future Harvest: Unit 8, Tower Road, Glover Industrial Estate, Washington, Tyne and Wear NE37 2SH • Telephone: 0191 419 0010 (Trade only)