Maximum Yield USA - October 2009

USA

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

FREE

CEA:

Creating the Perfect Room, Right out of the Box

Do Plants Need Climate Control?

East Coast USA Indoor Gardening Expo

www.indoorgardenexpo.com NOVEMBER 7 and 8, 2009

FLORIDA

CONTENTS october 2009

FEATURES 42

Hydroponic H2O: Water Quality and Treatment

60

CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right out of the Box - Part II

72

The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Greenhouse

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

by Erik Biksa

by Charlene Rennick

60

98

76

Food Pyramid Production - Part I

82

Effective Micro-Organisms

90

Do Plants Need Climate Controllers?

98

Ventilation Basics

by Lee McCall

by Luis Bartolo

by Isabelle Lemay agr. and Mélissa Léveillé

by Bob Taylor

102

The Real Dirt on Humic Substances

108

Institute of Simplified Hydroponics Unveils New USA Training Facility

by Ryan Zadow

by Peggy Bradley

112

Mauro Farms Superior Organics: Certified Organic Tomatoes Grown Hydroponically

by Philip McIntosh

DEPARTMENTS 10 From the Editor

88 Green Thumb Gardening

12 Letters to the Editor

96 Tips and Tricks

14 MaximumYield.com

118 How It's Made

18 Ask Erik

130 Avant-Gardening

20 MAX Facts

131 Do You Know?

32 Product Spotlight

132 Max Mart

58 Growing for Health

136 Distributors

74 Beginner’s Corner

146 Coming up in November

112 MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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FROM THE editor

jessica raymond

It’s hard to believe that a year has gone by since we first launched Maximum Yield USA monthly. Over the years it has grown to a lush 160+ page magazine bursting with the most recent information and freshest articles from our elite contributors. Thank you to everyone who has supported us and especially you, the reader, who anxiously awaits each month’s edition from your favorite retailer.

We have some great reads in this issue along with some new features and writers that I know you will love. From great commentaries on climate controllers, to ventilation and water quality, our writers present some excellent tips and tricks to maximize your grow. This issue also introduces you to real-life growers as in Philip McIntosh’s interview with John Nicholas of Mauro Farms Superior Organics in Vineland, Colorado.

You too have the chance to be featured within the pages of Maximum Yield by sending us “Your Best Advice.” This will be a column written by MY readers for MY readers. If you have some growing advice you would like to share, send it to editor@maximumyield.com. If your advice is printed you could win some sweet gear from yours truly.

contributors

Dr. Lynette Morgan holds a B. Hort. Tech. degree and a PhD

in hydroponic greenhouse production from Massey University, New Zealand. A partner with SUNTEC International Hydroponic Consultants, Lynette is involved in remote and on-site consultancy services for new and existing commercial greenhouse growers worldwide as well as research trials and product development for manufacturers of hydroponic products. Lynette authors five hydroponic technical books. Visit www.suntec.co.nz/consultants.htm and www.suntec.co.nz/books.htm for more information.

Jessica Raymond, Editor editor@maximumyield.com

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

Erik Biksa, leading expert in hydroponic technologies, holds a diploma in Agriculture with majors in fertilizer sciences and crop production. Erik’s earliest gardening experiences began when he started to walk, learning the secrets of time honored, old-world gardening practices from his grandfather. Erik has amassed over 18 years of indoor gardening experience and intensive research while pushing the boundaries of crop growth technologies. Since first appearing in Maximum Yield in 1999, the “Ask Erik” column and numerous articles have reached growers throughout the world.

Bob Taylor is the chief chemist of Flairform (www.flairform.com) - an

Lee McCall graduated from Johnson and Wales University with a concentration in Culinary Arts. Culinary school opened the door to research and work with hydroponics and organic production. Currently, Lee attends business school in Denver and focuses on continuing advancements with Maximum Yield and indoor gardening technology.

Ryan Zadow spent eight years as R&D/ Plant Scientist at Green Air Products before becoming the R&D manager for BioAg three years ago. He specializes in fertilizer and supplement formulation for hydroponic and soil applications and has served as a freelance consultant for small growers, including hydro organics, and developed organic products for large soil and soil-less farming systems throughout the Northwest. Ryan's specific interest is in the world of humic substances where he sees great potential for improved yield and product quality, healthier soils and sustainable systems.

Jose Luis Pinheiro Bartolo is the President and Chief Executive

Peggy Bradley is the executive director for Carbon Question International. She has a master’s degree in civil engineering and works in the field of hydroponics, specializing in using the technology to help humans reduce their impact on the earth. She was nominated for the Japan Institute of Technology Environmental award and completed the Children’s Hydroponic Exhibit at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Isabelle Lemay is in charge of the technical support, customer

Philip McIntosh is a science and technology writer with a bachelor's

Officer of Biobizz Worldwide Inc., (www.biobizz.nl) a global leader in the production of organic fertilizers and soil mixtures in the hydroponic industry, which he launched in 2002. He is passionate about maintaining a business philosophy that identifies with the organic market and providing the highest service and perfectionism that comes direct from his heart and is projected to all aspects of his life.

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

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Get your bags packed for the upcoming East Coast USA Indoor Gardening Expo – November 7-8 in beautiful Orlando, Florida. This show unites expo fever with a world-class venue so you get to learn and play hard all weekend long. World class exhibits, "fast track seminars" and industry socials are all planned for this highly anticipated expo. Updated show information along with special hotel rates at the resort can be found at www.indoorgardeningexpo.com.

Make sure that you book your room

by October 6th to take advantage of the special room rates at this 200+ acre resort that boasts a world class golf course, restaurants, spas and more! Bring the whole family and have fun! A room booking link to the hotel can be found under accommodations at indoorgardenexpo.com Happy October!

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Australian based manufacturing company. Up until 1992, Bob was the principal chemist of the water resources section at Western Australia’s State Government Chemistry Centre. Bob was an approved NATA signatory for a wide range of water analyses as well as an official registered analyst for the government’s chemical analysis monitoring program of all fertilizers registered in Western Australia.

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 to study the uptake of metals by roots. He also has experience in medical device manufacturing and was a technical writing supervisor in the semiconductor equipment manufacturing industry. He lives in Colorado Springs, CO, and teaches mathematics at Challenger Middle School.

LETTERS TO the editor

Yes, they Read us in India too

Smiles all 'round from Win Big Grow Big Winners

"Hydroponic plants can grow healthy and bountiful throughout the year, provided you create the perfect indoor environment for them to grow."

Thanks so much. I am really excited to win the ballast in your contest. I will continue to be a loyal reader of your magazine (the best in the business).

Joe O’Neal Not only am I one of the contest winners of a magazine I truly enjoy, but I’m on my way to the hospital – going to be a grandpa. My wife and I grew up in Nanaimo; it’s nice to know Nanaimo is also home to a quality magazine like Maximum Yield. Thank you once again.

Len Harrison

I am from India and I am interested in growing hydroponic plants like capsicum. What are the requirements? Can hydroponic plants grow all year?

Kiren Kumar

I just wanted to say thank you for the Botanicare nutrients and coco blocks. It is nice to win something I will use.

Steve Ball

Fish Food Hello and thank you for the great magazine! We live in the south of Mexico, and we have an organic farm.

We are very interested in learning more about aquaponics. Please direct me to any helpful information. Hope to hear from you soon.

AVANT-GARDENING

Introduction to Aquaponics

by Kirk Gordon

Hydroponics and aquaponics are very similar in every way except hydroponics requires the addition of fertilizer and there’s no fish in the nutrient solution.

In aquaponics, plants and fish live a symbiotic life with the fish feeding the plants, and the plants cleaning and filtering the fish’s environment.

The fish waste becomes the plant’s food source; consequently, the plants’ roots filter the water and keep the tank clean.

In essence, aquaponics could be considered a miniature ecosystem because both plants and fish are thriving in the same environment.

Aquaponics offer benefits to both gardeners and fish farmers.

Fish Farmers may utilize aquaponics if they have difficulty disposing the nutrient rich fish water, while hydroponics growers benefit from having a constant supply of free plant food – eliminating the need to purchase commercial fertilizers.

Unlike hydroponics or aeroponics, aquaponics is still a relatively new cultivation technique. As more technology is developed and the process is refined, it could potentially become a space and money saving process for producing fish, vegetables and herbs.

In hydroponics and aeroponics applications, the nutrient solution needs to be prepared – measured, mixed and then added to the reservoir. In aquaponics, there’s no mixing fertilizer involved, making it a great way for beginners to cultivate plants.

Only the fish need to be fed.

The number of commercial applications utilizing aquaponics is still very limited. A number of universities globally are currently exploring the science of aquaponics to advance this extreme cultivation technique. Aquaponics is currently being used in areas where the fish population is declining and/or their food supply must be imported.

This article is courtesy of www.hydroponicsearch.com Aquaponics Search Engine and Community. (Source: http:// EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kirk_Gordon) MY

Thank you Wes Chowaniec

An aquaponic greenhouse showing plants being supplied nutrients from their fishy counterparts (far left). Tilapia, a common species, thrive in their own tank, providing nutrient-rich water to the plants (left).

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - July 2009

Maximumyield.com is the resource you need, with 11+ years of articles on hydroponics, indoor gardening, aquaponics and more archived for you to reference. Kirk Gordon discusses the basics of aquaponics on page 146 of your Maximum Yield USA (July) available at grow shops in hard copy and on maximumyield.com For a more in-depth look at aquaponics, check out Mike Nichols' Aquaponics: Clean, Green and Organic by searching our author archive on maximumyield.com

Modification Mystery I went to your website to find out how to modify a simple air conditioner and was unable to find it. Please send me the appropriate information.

Thank you Morris Rhodes I am interested in learning how to modify my air conditioner in order to increase the levels of CO2 in my grow room. Please help.

George Dunn

The information you are both looking for can be found in the Online Extras section of maximumyield.com at http://maximumyield.com/articles/ extras/USA/MY_OE_07_09_CO2.pdf Online Extras are the tips, tricks, images and articles that are available exclusively on our website. In addition to our incredible selection of articles in Maximum Yield magazine, Online Extras provide unique content that you won't find anywhere else.

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Kiren, you have come to the right place. Maximum Yield is the #1 resource for how-to hydroponics, and you can read us for free online at maximumyield.com A great reference for you would be Lee McCall’s five part series on growing in aeroponics and organic soil with Capsicum Chinese Jacquin as the test specimen (http://maximumyield.com/article_sh_ db.php?article ID=388&yearVar=2008&issueVar=December).

Although hydroponic plants can be cultivated outdoors, it is a technology that is most utilized and generally works best indoors.

Hydroponic plants can grow healthy and bountiful throughout the year, provided you create the perfect indoor environment for them to grow. Good luck and make sure to let us know how you make out.

Lost in the Loop Your article on CO2 generators touched on air-conditioning the sealed growing environment. Can wall mounted residential units work in this capacity? Would it be better to have a closed loop system with a heat pump? Thanks for all your great articles and insights.

Cheers George Bulterman

Wall mounted (not referring to Window Mount ACs) air conditioners, particularly “split systems” which are duct-less (no outside air exchange) are very well suited to sealed growing environments that are supplemented with carbon dioxide from generating devices or from tanks. The fact that they take up less space in the growing area and can be mounted at crop level due to the wall mount installation is an added bonus. Water cooled heat exchangers are also an efficient option in certain situations, although units with multiple fans tend to be a little louder. There are “specialists” in the field of grow room air conditioning; if your project is of a decent scale it may be worthwhile to consult with one. Thanks for the encouragement and hope to deliver plenty more.

Cheers, Erik Biksa Maximum Yield reserves the right to edit for brevity.

We want to hear from you!

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

Coming up on the Web events:

I N D O O R

G A R D E N I N G

VOLUME 10 – NUMBER 7 October 2009 Maximum Yield is published monthly by Maximum Yield Publications Inc. 2339A Delinea Place, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5L9 Phone: 250.729.2677; Fax 250.729.2687 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

If undeliverable please return to the address above.

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

Publication Agreement Number 40739092

Next month marks the highly anticipated East Coast USA Indoor Gardening Expo in Orlando, Florida. The “Greener Places, Sustainable Spaces” event held November 7-8, 2009 is sure to be truly spectacular with world class amenities offered by the Orlando-Marriott World Center and an exceptional line-up of exhibitors. All event information can be found by visiting www.indoorgardenexpo.com October 6th is your last chance to get a great rate of $139 at the Marriott Hotel so make sure to stop by http://cwp.marriott.com/mcowc/ eastcoastindoorgardenexpo and book your rooms now.

“The gardener will consciously know that the garden’s environment will influence the photosynthesis process and cellular respiration, which have an important impact on his harvests.”

Isabelle Lemay and Mélissa Léveillé

Contests: Congratulations to the winners of our second draw in the Win Big! Grow Big! online reader contest. Flip to page 146 to see what they won.

And this time it could be you – with four chances to win every second month. Enter online at maximumyield.com/winbig by October 15 for your chance to take home the CO2 Generator from CO2 Boost, Hydro-Logic’s Small Boy Filter, a 48-piece Cloner from TurboKlone and the NextGen Electronic Ballast from CAP. Good Luck to you!

Latest News • In a shocking move, Egypt, a nation that relies heavily on genetically modified agricultural imports, has banned the importing and exporting of all GMOs. • LEDs come out ahead as the greenest lighting option available in a race against CFL-based lamps.

• New evidence suggests herbicides may increase the amount of carotenoids, key nutrients, in corn kernels

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

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER - Jim Jesson GENERAL MANAGER - Don Moores BUSINESS MANAGER - Linda Jesson SALES DIRECTOR - Lisa Lambersek EDITOR - Jessica Raymond jessica@maximumyield.com ADVERTISING SALES 250.729.2677 Linda Jesson - linda@maximumyield.com Lisa Lambersek - lisa@maximumyield.com Ilona Hawser - ilona@maximumyield.com Julie Madden - julie@maximumyield.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN ads@ads.maximumyield.com Pentti Tikkanen - pentti@maximumyield.com Alice Joe - alice@maximumyield.com Wes Cargill - wes@maximumyield.com ACCOUNTING - Lee Anne Veres leeanne@maximumyield.com USA DISTRIBUTION Aurora Innovations BWGS, BWGS West and BWGS East General Hydroponics Hydrofarm Hydro International National Garden Wholesale / Sunlight Supply R&M Supply Tradewinds CANADIAN DISTRIBUTION Brite-Lite Group Biofloral Eddis Wholesale Greenstar Plant Products Inc. Hydrotek MegaWatt Quality Wholesale UK DISTRIBUTION Growth Technology Hydrogarden Northern Hydroponic Wholesale Nutriculture UK AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTION Futchatec Growth Technology Hydraspher

ASK

erik

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

Dear Erik, I'm just getting my ducks in a row to grow strawberries indoors year-round. I've started an ever-bearing variety under my halide, and I'm just beginning to see a few flowers form on each plant. I'm starting from ground zero as far as learning the life-cycle of strawberry plants, so I need not learn everything from one single letter, but I'd love to know a few basics: 1. Are strawberry plants subject to seasons, even if I'm growing indoors? Or, do they simply reach a certain age and begin fruiting?

2. Should I pick off these first flowers for better overall production? (I've heard of people doing that with outdoor strawberries).

Eric, Sounds like things are progressing along well on your new endeavor; very excellent to hear! Admittedly, strawberries are not my strongest area of expertise although I am pleased to offer the following advice: I think that with cultivating the ever-bearing varieties indoors you won’t need to concern yourself so much with the notion of seasons. I suspect that the ever-bearing varieties begin to buildup flowering and fruiting co-factors as they begin their life cycle.

Once the flowering and fruiting hormones inside the plant reach the critical level, they begin to flower and produce fruit.

However, with that said, you can influence the rate of development and fruit qualities by manipulating the growing environment. For example, cooler day/night temperatures will likely increase sugar contents in the berries, so once a lot of berries have developed; you could drop the temperatures to sweeten them up before a harvest. After harvesting the fruit, you could encourage more plant growth and production of fruiting sites by increasing temperatures and applying kelpbased products that will stimulate cell division. Although the plant is growing and flowering at the same time, you can manage harvests and growth in “waves.” Experiment with day lengths too. Some auto-flowering varieties of plants produce best with about 20 hours of light and four hours of darkness.

Outdoor growers have a limited season, and want to have as big a fruit load as possible. Indoors you can create the perfect environment year-round, and re-plant as often as you need with fresh starts to maintain a high rate of plant vigor and continued fruit production. Consider modeling a CPS (Continuous Production System), with plantings staggered a few weeks apart. However, when you run a CPS model, you will be maintaining all of the plants in the same environment, losing some of the control you can have with environmental manipulation at different times in the cropping phase. Mind 18

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

3. Will my plants keep producing, or is it best to swap them out after a certain time?

4. Do I root runners and treat them as brand new plants?

Even if you could refer me to a book, rich with information on indoor strawberries, that would be great. But, for now I'm just looking for some general guidelines to get me started.

Thanks so much Eric

you, it’s possible to keep one corner of the growing area a little cooler than the other with a bit of ingenuity.

In a hydroponics system, they will continue to produce for longer periods, provided that there are no limitations for root growth; giving you more fruits harvested per plant in an extended fruiting phase. Eventually you will want to replace them with fresh starts to keep production levels vigorous. Again, this makes a great case for utilizing the CPS model (as discussed in previous editions of Maximum Yield).

For this one, consult the book I will recommend!

You can search through previous editions of Maximum Yield or www.maximumyield.com for up-to-date articles on hydroponic strawberry production.You can also look for a book called “Hydroponic Strawberry Production,” which should serve as a useful guide for you in your project. Learn the fundamentals, and then don’t be afraid to experiment with a portion of your crop. Experienced growers will find that there are exceptions to some of the “rules” because no two growing situations are exactly the same. However, you will need to have something to compare to first, so building up a solid growing foundation with your crop of choice is an important first step.

Good luck, and please keep us posted with your progress.

Highest Regards, Erik Biksa

MY

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

LED Leads in the Race against CFL-based Lamps In a study of the greenest lighting options with regards to life-cycle, CFL and LED-based lamps are neck and neck, but because LEDs are still improving, and they do not contain mercury, their disposal is less hazardous.

According to a Carnegie Mellon study, only two per cent of the total energy consumed by LEDs is used in their production. The whole life-cycle of the product was taken into account, including the manufacturing process, how it is used and the disposal at the end of its life. The U.S. Department of Energy has already released a few life-cycle assessments of LED lights, and the conclusions found that production is relatively small portion of the total life-cycle impacts of the different light bulb technologies. With LEDs and CFLs, over 98 per cent of the energy used is consumed to generate light.

LEDs produce about 30 lumens/watt to CFLs, although the results are very close. Studies predict that efficiencies of 150/lumens/watt are possible for LEDs. (Source: www.treehugger.com)

Superthrive Originator Dr. John A.A. Thomson Recipient of Lifetime Environmental Awareness Award Dr. John A.A. Thomson, originator of Superthrive®, received a surprise visit from America’s Natural Master Gardener, Nick Federoff, on behalf of Sustainable Environmental Education (SEE) to award him their highest recognition “Lifetime Environmental Awareness Award.”

Dr. Thomson’s environmental contributions that are best known are his worldwide-used product Superthrive® and its outstanding effects: Reforestation; increased volume, grade and speed of crops; overcoming adverse growing conditions; eliminating interior toxicity; reviving trees and other plants; normalizing and perfecting plants; and improving reaction of gardening for children, handicapped and committed persons.

Dr. Thomson recalls early factors in his environment awareness: “My grandfather was an orchardist, and my parents supported the protection of wildlife and national parks advocated by President Theodore Roosevelt and naturalist John Muir. His parents also provided him with vegetable and flower seeds when he was seven years old. He also credits school biology classes and possibly the earliest known college class in ecology in 1931.

Superthrive® can be found at nurseries, garden centers and retail outlets nationwide. For detailed information, visit www.superthrive.com

Herbicides Heighten Levels of Carotenoids in Corn About 240,000 acres of sweet corn is grown in the United States every year. Corn has been found to be a good source of zeaxanthin carotenoids, which may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, heart disease and cancer. Scientists exposed several varieties of sweet corn plants to the herbicide mesotrione or a combination of mesotrione and atrazine, which made the corn an even better source of carotenoids, boosting some levels by up to 15 per cent.

It also specifically increased levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, the major carotenoids in sweet corn kernels.

According to a new scientific study, the use of herbicides on several varieties of sweet corn significantly increases the amount of carotenoids, key nutrients, in the corn kernels.

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(Source: American Chemical Society. “First Evidence That Weed Killers Improve Nutritional Value of a Key Food Crop.” ScienceDaily 9 July 2009. 13 July 2009 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­/ releases/2009/07/090708094830.htm>)

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

East Coast USA Indoor Gardening Expo

The “Greener Places, Sustainable Spaces” Indoor Gardening Expo in Orlando, Florida (November 7-8, 2009) promises to be a fun and exciting event for growers from around the globe. The event will be held at the beautiful Marriott-Orlando World Centre, and will feature educational seminars, leading industry innovators and the newest and best products and technologies – truly something for everyone. General public is encouraged to join us on Sunday, November 8 from 12-5 p.m. This is an event you don’t want to miss.

For all show information, accommodations and exhibitor listings, visit www.indoorgardenexpo.com

Paradigm Gardens Celebrates 10 Years The team at Paradigm Gardens wishes to thank all who came out to their celebration of 10 years in business.

The event was a huge success with support from some of the biggest names in the industry including Sunlight Supply, Botanicare, Nickel City Wholesale and General Hydroponics, to name a few.

Food and live music from D.J. KobraKyle was provided from noon until 3 p.m, and attendees were thanked with plenty of samples and giveaways from EYE Lighting, Can-Filters, EZ-Clone, C.A.P, Technaflora, Down to Earth, Milwaukee Instruments, TurboKlone, CO2 Boost, Hydro Innovations and more.

Attendees also received 20 per cent off all store purchase.

Congratulations to Paradigm Gardens and here’s to another 10 years!

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

New Leaf Lettuce Breeding Lines with Corky Root Resistance Agriculture Research Services has released three new leaf lettuce breeding lines with resistance to corky root, a serious disease of lettuce that attacks plant’s roots causing them to enlarge and develop yellow to brown lesions and longitudinal cracks. Geneticists have developed one red leaf lettuce and two green leaf lettuces with resistance to the disease.

Roots infected with corky root disease are unable to effectively absorb water and nutrients, resulting in smaller lettuce heads and yield loss.

Cultural practices and fumigation techniques used to treat the disease are costly and labor-intensive. Therefore, developing lines with genetic resistance is still the most common and preferred method to combat the disease.

The new breeding lines plant weight is comparable to or higher than commercial cultivars. The breeding lines also showed little to no tipburn in test trials.

(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

Egypt Bans GMOs Egypt, a nation that up until now relied heavily on genetically modified agricultural imports, has announced it will no longer be importing or exporting any GMOs. All imports must now have a certificate from the country of origin that the product is not genetically modified. This also applies to Egyptian exports.

There is some concern surrounding the ban, as GMO food imports are incredibly pervasive, especially for products like soy oil. Currently Egypt’s soy oil imports come from Brazil, U.S. and Argentina. The ban will mean soy oil imports come only from Brazil. This is tough to regulate, as Brazil has large GMO production and it is possible that GMO soybeans could be mixed with non-GMO beans.

Many imports would impose difficulties while others would be easier. Wheat is an example of a non-GMO product that is readily available and easily imported. The question now is what impact this decision will have on the countries Egypt trades with. Will a company making soy oil in the US attempt to create a GMO-free product to meet the market demand or will companies deem Egypt’s soy oil market not worth the hassle?

(Source: www.treehugger.com)

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Medicinal Compound Gets New Life as Fungicide

ARS Research Promotes Sustainable Potato Production

Scientists have transformed a naturally-occurring, medicinal compound, sampangine, into an agricultural fungicide, providing growers with one more weapon for fighting destructive fungi.

Sampangine was first patented in 1990 as a treatment for human fungal infections, although it was never released pharmaceutically. Plant pathologists have been issued a patent for the compound as a broad-spectrum, low-toxicity control of fungal plant pathogens that threaten agriculture.

Sampangine-based compounds can control fungi that threaten tomatoes, strawberries, grapes, citrus plants, papaya, potatoes, sugarcane and many ornamentals. Sampangine can greatly help the United States' $31-billion-a-year minor crop industry.

The sampangine-based fungicides may also find use as post harvest and anti-decay agents.

As part of a mission to support and enhance sustainable agricultural production of food, feed, fiber and fuel in the United States, Agricultural Research Service scientists are researching ways to reduce the need for pesticides used in potato production.

With 41.3 billion pounds of potatoes harvested

by U.S. farmers in 2008 alone, and about 130 pounds of spuds per capita consumed annually by Americans, making small changes in how they are grown could yield big benefits to the environment.

It has been found that proper crop rotation, utilizing mustard from the Brassica family, can naturally suppress diseases, enhance soil nutrient content, boost crop productivity and lower the use of fertilizers. All of these benefits lower the risks of economic losses.

Crop rotation reduces soil-born diseases from 20 to 50 per cent. The use of cover crops could save farmers $14 to $30 per acre, depending on the cost of nitrogen fertilizers.

(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

MAX

facts

hydroponic news, tips and trivia

Precise Peppers for Every Pot An exhibit exploring the diversity of peppers is being featured from June to November at the U.S. Botanic Gardens in Washington, D.C. The exhibit themed “A Pepper for Every Pot” includes recently introduced varieties, and celebrates peppers’ beauty, flavors and nutritional benefits.

Due to their genetic potential and considerable diversity for fruit and leaf shape, size and color as well as plant habit, new varieties of ornamental, garden and kitchen varieties are popping up everywhere. From the sweet, edible ornamental Tangerine Dream to the All America Selections award

winner, the Black Pearl, many of the varieties are available commercially. The Black Pearl, in particular, is great for today’s smaller urban gardens Ornamental peppers have become a profitable crop for commercial growers and retailers with the ornamental plant market worth nearly $5 billion in the United States each year. Specialty peppers could capture a larger portion of those dollars.

(Source: www.ars.usda.gov)

Potting Mix as a Fungicide Replacement Plant physiologists have found that a natural potting mix of peat, compost and Trichoderma hamatum, a beneficial fungus, may work much better at fighting plant diseases than systemic fungicides.

This mixture is custom tailored to specific diseases, such as Botrytis gray mould, and thus does a better job in combat than standard fungicide. The Trichoderma fungus prevents Botrytis from infecting fresh wounds, and produces compounds that

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keep Botrytis spores from germinating.

The beneficial Trichoderma fungus-compost mix also improves the plant quality and increases its market value as it does not leave a residue on the plant as do fungicide sprays.

Surprisingly, the compost mix has a similar effect even without Trichoderma. This means there could be naturally occurring beneficial fungi or other biocontrol agents in the (Source: www.ars.usda.gov) MY compost.

PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

C.A.P. proudly introduces their New Everlastics Flood Tables Showcased at the San Francisco Indoor Gardening Expo, Everlastics Flood Tables feature a superior plastic design at a much lower price. Everlastics Flood Tables will work perfectly with your existing HydroHut and GrandStand. Available in four by eight and four by four, black or white, these flood tables are made of environmentally friendly recycled plastic. Everlastics Flood Tables have no grooves on top of the media holding ribs, which allows for much easier cleaning! Contact your retail distributor to learn more.

Grodan Introduces Big Mamaâ&#x201E;˘ You asked and we listened; the big mama of all blocks is now here! Big Mamaâ&#x201E;˘ is the largest block ever produced by Grodan. It is eight inches cubed and contains well over twice the amount of wool as the popular Hugo block. This block is big enough to grow a large plant for its entire life - even a mother plant! When your plant outgrows its current block, just place it on top of Big Mama. Due to the height of this block we recommend top watering methods. Big Mama is solid wool and does not have a pre-cut hole thus making it suitable to hold any size smaller block on top (even a Hugo). At Grodan we take your suggestions seriously.

Visit your local indoor gardening shop for more information.

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PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

Sunleaves Guanos Moves into Bigger “House”

Keep It Simple, Baby Comfortably situated between full-scale hydroponic systems and entry-level soilless gardening kits, the Bare Bones Baby Bloomer is a surprisingly effective option that will satisfy the needs of serious indoor gardeners without intimidating those who are just getting their feet wet.

It’s comprised of basic, well-made hydroponics system components: a tray, a reservoir and the appropriate fittings. This simplicity allows gardeners to make their setup as basic or complex as they’re comfortable with, and its compact 31 inch by 14 inch by 12 inch total size allows them to grow with a bona fide hydroponic system that doesn’t take up a large amount of space. Look for Bare Bones Baby Bloomer at your local grow shop today.

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

The new Sunleaves International House of Guano Large Kit has even more of the best natural plant food on the planet! Included are five pounds of Mexican Bat Guano, and 11 pounds each of Jamaican Bat Guano, Indonesian Bat Guano and Peruvian Seabird Guano.

This comprehensive plant nutrition program provides plants with the perfect level of nutrients for each stage of development, and comes complete with an easy-tounderstand feeding schedule for flowering and nonblooming plants, indoors and out. For more guano options, visit your local grow shop.

PRODUCT spotlight

Merlin-Garden Pro goes Green Hydro-Logic is pleased to offer the new Eco Green Drain Elbow for the MerlinGarden Pro. This green elbow replaces the existing black drain elbow and saves 25 per cent of the drain water. By forcing more untreated water through the RO membranes, less water goes to waste out the drain line. Recommended only for those with less than 250 PPM in their untreated tap water. Any PPM reading above 250 may result in having to change the membranes more often as they are working harder removing contaminants. Others that may consider using these green elbows are those on metered wells or those wanting to conserve their water usage.

This is a custom manufactured product offered exclusively by Hydro-Logic Purification Systems.

Continue producing the purest water for your plants and family and help the environment by saving precious water. Ask your local retailer for more information. Pure water’s not magic. It’s logic.

New Silver Hut Sizes The Silver Edition Series comprises the next line of tents from HydroHut. The Silver Edition easily surpasses its rivals through noticeable, intelligent differences – better flaps around the door and the windows using Velcro to ensure it is light-tight; steel poles and corners for real strength; higher quality outer material that won’t rip; more sewing and material in crucial areas to help protect stress points; and more air vents to do as you wish. HydroHut capitalized on its experience to make the best product on the market. The Silver Edition series of tents will be an easy choice over the competition.

Completely control your plants atmosphere and light indoors: • extra wide flaps to keep light in • adjustable steel ceiling poles • strongest ceiling on the market • no plastic or aluminium – all steel • reinforced corners • available in four by six feet and five by five feet Look for them at an authorized retailer near you.

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PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

Nature’s Solution Ancient Humate

Power Pack from Hydrotek

Nature’s Solution Ancient Humate is a liquid that is taken directly from an ancient bog and then filtered. There are no chemicals used in the process. Each quart contains liquid humate, humic acid, yucca, soluble sea kelp, amino acids derived from sea kelp and compost extract. This is a nutrient used to feed micro-organisms in your soil or soilless growing systems. It is to be used in conjunction with Nature’s Solution Compost Tea that contains the full-spectrum of beneficial micro-organisms necessary to transform the organic nutrients in Ancient Humate into a plant available form. The beneficial bacteria and fungi in the compost tea retain the nutrients in Ancient Humate, and then the protozoa and bacterial and fungal-feeding nematodes in the compost tea come along and eat the bacteria and fungi. The nutrients are then released from the protozoa and nematodes in a plant available form. Available now from hydroponics retailers.

Power Pack is a powerful additive to boost your flower and plant’s feeding program.

Power Pack will generate greener leaves and healthier plants and is nutrientrich in micro-elements.

Power Pack can be used frequently as a foliar spray or in the tank, during both growth and flowering stages. Power pack reduces yellowing when cuttings are rooting.

It can also be used on mature plants to reduce yellowing on lower leaves during flowering stages.

• unique liquid micro nutrient formulation (EDTA) • super concentrated • stronger stems, roots and greener leaves To learn more visit your local indoor gardening retailer.

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Continued on page 124

Hydroponic H2O

by Dr. Lynette Morgan

Good quality water is vital for a healthy hydroponic system, but just because what comes out of the tap is clean, clear and good to drink, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean your plants will love it as well.

Water quality and treatment focuses on making water safe for us, even if that means using disinfectant chemicals to kill human pathogens. Secondary focuses are in treating water so it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cause us other hassles such as pipe corrosion, scale formation on appliances, unwanted odors and staining minerals. However, with municipal water treatment no real concern is given to plants or hydroponic systems, so growers are on their own in determining if their water supply is a problem and what to do about it.

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Water Quality and Treatment

Municipal water supplies Many indoor gardeners are reliant on municipal water supplies and have few other options for a better quality water source.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that some plant losses have and do occur as a result of some municipal water supplies, particularly in sensitive species and in water culture systems where there is no media to act as a buffer. On the other hand, many municipal water supplies are quite suitable and given that they have had organic matter and pathogens removed already, are a good deal as far as hydroponic systems go. Interestingly plants have rather different responses and requirements from a water supply than humans and this is where problems can occur. Municipal water treatment ensures that drinking water meets the World Health Organization (WHO) and EPA standards for mineral, chemical and biological contamination levels, making it generally very safe to drink and use. However, what is safe for us to drink may not be so good for plant growth, particularly when we consider many hydroponic systems are recirculating which allows build up of unwanted contaminants in the plant root zone.

Water treatment options used by municipal suppliers change over time and hydroponic growers should be aware of the implications of these. Many years ago the main concern was the use of chlorine as a disinfection agent to destroy bacteria and human pathogens. Chlorine had the advantage in that it disinfected water effectively; however, residual chlorine in water sources, which could often be detected by smell, could be toxic to sensitive plants and where it built up in certain hydroponics systems. Also when chlorine reacts with organic matter it forms substances (trihalomethanes) which are linked to increased risk of cancer and other health problems. Chlorine was, however, quite easy to remove from water with the use of aeration or even just aging the water a few days before irrigating

plants. In the 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s it was found that some organisms such as Cryptosporidium were resistant to chlorine and the resulting health issues from this meant that drinking water regulations were changed and alternative disinfection methods began to be used. These included use of ozone and UV light, chloramines (chlorine plus ammonia) and chlorine dioxide.

Filtration, flocculation, settling, UV and ozone used for water supply treatment are non problematic as far as hydroponic systems go, as they leave no residue and are effective. However, use of chloramines and some of the other chemicals by municipal water treatment plants may still pose problems where high levels are regularly dosed into water supplies. Chloramines

There are many options for water treatment and even small growers can use RO, oxygenation and UV treatment systems.

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

43

Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment

Recirculating solution culture systems such as NFT have less buffering capacity to water treatment chemical residues than organic media-based systems.

are much more persistent than chlorine and take a lot longer to dissipate from treated water, so gardeners who are concerned can use a couple of different treatment methods just as those with aquarium fish often choose to do. There are specifically designed activated carbon filters which can remove most of the chloramines in a domestic water supply and also â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dechloraminatingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chemical or water conditioners available in pet shops. Carbon filters must be of the correct type that have a high quality granular activated carbon and allow a longer contact time which is required for chloramines removal. Even then not every trace may be removed, but levels are lowered enough to prevent problems. Use of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is also used in the industry, and by laboratories to remove chloramines from water after they have done their disinfection job.

Chemicals are also added to drinking water to adjust its hardness or softness, pH and alkalinity. Water that is naturally acidic is corrosive to pipes and sodium hydroxide may be added to reduce this. Sodium is a contaminate we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need in hydroponic systems, but may be present at surprisingly high levels in certain water supplies. Domestic water softeners may also contaminate the water with sodium which is not seen as a problem for drinking, but can run amuck with a well balanced hydroponic system and sodium sensitive crop.

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Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment â&#x20AC;&#x153;Root rot pathogens may originate in water, but they can come from a number of sources, including fungal spores, blown in dust or brought in by insects.â&#x20AC;?

Water quality problems and their effects on plant growth are hard to diagnose, although root browning and stunted growth are common symptoms.

What water problems may look like Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extremely difficult to determine if something in the water supply is causing plant growth problems. Root rot pathogens may originate in water, but they can come from a number of sources, including fungal spores, blown in dust or brought in by insects. Mineral problems can be a little easier to trace if the

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water supply analysis is available to check levels of elements.

Plant problems which may be caused by water treatment chemicals are difficult to diagnose as some plants are much more sensitive than others and the type of system also plays a role. Research studies have reported that chloramines in hydroponic nutrient solutions can cause growth inhibition and root browning in susceptible plants. One study reported that the critical chloramines amount at which lettuce plant growth was significantly inhibited was 0.18 mg Cl/g root fresh weight, however, the levels at which some other species would be damaged is as yet undetermined. Similar problems exist with the use of other water treatment chemicals; chlorine and hydrogen peroxide are good disinfection agents, but too much in the hydroponic nutrient will cause root damage and just what is a safe level is dependant on a number factors such as the level of organic loading in the system.

Hard water Hard water is water that has a high mineral content, usually calcium and magnesium, with calcium present as calcium carbonate or calcium sulfate. Hard water can occur in wells and

Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment also adjust for any alkalinity problems with water acidification.

Smaller growers can use one of the many excellent ‘hard water’ nutrient products on the market to get a similar effect.

“Rain water should be treated before use with young seedlings and clones where pathogens could infect sensitive tissue and open wounds.”

Young seedlings and clones are particularly sensitive to water quality problems.

municipal sources and has a tendency to form hard lime scale on surfaces and equipment. A hard water supply is generally not a major problem for hydroponic gardens; calcium and magnesium are useful elements for plant uptake, however, high levels in the water can upset the balance of a nutrient solution making other ions less available. Commercial growers routinely use hard water supplies and adjust their nutrient formulation to take into account the Ca and Mg naturally occurring in the water and

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Ground water – wells Many commercial hydroponics growers use well water for hydroponic systems and adjust their nutrient formulations to suit the natural mineral content of their water supply. Smaller growers would be advised to find out what is in their well water source just to check for potential problems as water which has percolated through soils tends to pick up some minerals and in some areas, high levels of unwanted elements such as sodium or trace elements. Well water can also contain pathogens and may need treatment before use, although often it is just the mineral levels that need adjustment. Water from dams, lakes and springs is usually similar to well water, but can contain much higher levels of sediment, organic matter and fungal pathogen spores.

Rain water Rain water collection can be a good way to bypass problems with municipal or well water in some areas; however, there are still some risks. Acid rain from industrial areas, sodium in coastal sites and high pathogen spore loads in agricultural areas can still occur. Generally rain water is low in minerals, but in the

Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment

Hydroponic lettuce plants are sodium sensitive and water supplies with high sodium levels may need RO treatment or frequent solution replacement.

process of collection from roofs and other surfaces, can collect wind blown dust and fungal spores. While this is generally not a problem for healthy plants, rain water should be treated before use with young seedlings and clones where pathogens could infect sensitive tissue and open wounds.

Solutions to water quality problems Organic material such as coconut fiber gives a greater buffering capacity for some water problems, including residues

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

from chemical water treatments, than solution culture systems.

Drain to waste media systems are also useful where the water supply contains unwanted elements such as sodium as these arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as susceptible to the accumulation that can occur where the solution is recirculated over a long period of time. Where problems with unwanted minerals and very hard water exist, frequent changing and replacement of the nutrient in the system can also be useful to keep things in balance. Water with a high alkalinity will need considerably more acid to keep the pH down to acceptable levels than water with low alkalinity; however, by acidifying the water first before making up a nutrient solution or adding to the reservoir, much less acid will need to be added to the system to adjust pH over time.

There are a range of other treatment options that indoor gardeners can use to improve the quality of their water supply. If pathogen contamination is an issue, slow sand filtration is one of the most effective methods, although perhaps not that practical for those with limited space. Chemical disinfection methods for pathogen control include hydrogen peroxide, chlorine and other compounds, although care should be taken that most of the active chemical has dissipated before the water is used to make up the nutrient solution. Heat, distillation, reverse osmosis and UV treatment can all be used for pathogen control, with many small RO and UV treatment systems now on the market.

Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment or unwanted elements such as sodium are present in a water supply, reverse osmosis (RO) or distillation can be used to remove these. Organic matter in ground water sources can be removed with settling and filtration and treatment with H2O2, while chemical contamination problems and removal of water treatment compounds are more easily treated with the correct type of activated carbon filter with a sufficient contact time.

Good quality water is the basis of a clean and healthy hydroponic system; contamination issues should be cleaned up before adding water to a system.

UV filters for aquariums can be used for small hydroponic growers to treat water with good success, provided sufficient contact time is allowed. If excess minerals

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Super-charged water for hydroponics While it seems logical that pure, clean and demineralized water is the best place to start when making up a hydroponic nutrition solution, the possibility of creating a water source that has certain benefits for plants is a relatively new concept. Water is not just a carrier for essential nutrient ions, the nutrient solution becomes a whole biological system in its own right with organic

matter, root exudates, various species of microbes including fungi, bacteria and their by-products (both good and bad), beneficial and unwanted mineral elements and a range of ‘additives’ growers may be using. Some studies have found that inexplicable growth increases could be obtained using certain ground water sources compared to rain or RO (essentially pure) water to make up a hydroponic nutrient solution indicating there may be natural factors in such waters which have benefits. Not all ground water sources have this effect; in fact, some can have negative influences on plant growth. Furthermore, another essential plant nutrient – oxygen in dissolved form - is usually present in water supplies; however, some water treatment processes can drive much of the dissolved oxygen (DO) out of a water source. In theory it would be possible to not only remove those things in the water we don’t want – pathogen

Hydroponic H2O - Water Quality and Treatment this would be with the use of slow sand filters or mineral filters for water supplies which are inoculated with beneficial microbes and with oxygenation of the water for a few days before making up nutrient solutions or topping up reservoirs. Further down the track we may see quicker and easier methods of ‘supercharging’ water for hydroponic systems, taking water quality to a whole new level of science.

MY References: Effects of chloramines concentration in the nutrient solution and exposure time on plant growth in hydroponically cultured lettuce. Date S, Terabayashi S, Kobayashi Y and Fujime Y., 2005. Scientia Horticulturae Seed germination is particularly sensitive to water quality, both in terms of chemical residues and pathogen spore contamination.

Salt build-up and plant damage can occur where certain high mineral water sources are used and not adjusted for.

spores, unwanted minerals, chemical residues from water treatment - but to also ‘boost’ the water with useful properties such as a high DO content,

a population of useful and disease suppressant microbes and some natural and potentially beneficial minerals and compounds. One way of achieving

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Vol. 103 issue 3, pp 257.

For a list of unwanted substances in your water and how to treat them visit www.maximumyield. com and click on Online Extras found under the Inside MY.com tab.

GROWING for health

by Emma Cooper

How to be a Locavore The latest news from the White House is that the First Family are becoming locavores - eating local food that has been grown right in the grounds of the White House in their new kitchen garden. Michelle Obama has broken the ground for the new vegetable plot, with the help of local school children. Whilst they have some things that we don't have (large greenhouses, plenty of space, full time gardeners, etc), it's easy enough to add home grown food to your menu and when you do you can be sure that it's free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers, safe and healthy to eat and hasn't added to the carbon footprint of your dinner. A few herbs in pots on the windowsill, or maybe a row of lettuce in the flower border, are a great start to a locavore lifestyle.

Outside of whatever food you can grow yourself, being a locavore is all about tracking down food that has been produced in your local area. If you live in farming country then you may find it easy - farmer's markets are increasingly popular and allow you to buy food direct from your neighbors.You may

discover local sources of meat, vegetables, dairy products and flour are right on your doorstep - giving you high quality, healthy food at reasonable prices.

In towns and cities you may have to do a little bit more detective work. There may be a little deli downtown that stocks local products and it's worth seeing what's available in ethnic areas as they usually use different suppliers and stock specialty items. Again, there may be a farmer's market once a week or once a month, where you can stock up.

When you're a locavore you'll not only discover the regional specialties of your area (a part of every culture that is well worth preserving) but you will discover the joys of eating with the seasons. Spring greens, asparagus, strawberries and raspberries all have quite short growing seasons in most parts of the world - but by eating fresh, local produce you'll get the very best flavor and the most health benefits, and when one fruit or vegetable is off the menu there are plenty of others to take its place. Eating locally and seasonally is a great way to add variety to your meals.

In essence, being a locavore is about doing your homework.

You'll need to read labels to find out where food has come from, do a little detective work to find out where companies ship their food to be processed and head off the beaten track to find out where the best food is sold. Keep an eye out for flyers advertising the farmer's market, and let friends and family know you're on the lookout for local food. Get to know the shopkeepers in your independent stores they will be pleased to help you with your quest.

Wherever you live in the world, you're going to find that there are limits to the items you can source locally. If you're a caffeine addict then you may need to allow coffee as an exception to your locavore rules. Or perhaps you can't live without tea, spices or soy milk. It doesn't matter. Being a locavore is a journey towards eating locally - start by replacing the easy items in your larder with local alternatives and work your way up to the harder ones and the things you really can't live without. Sow a few seeds of your own, and when you find a great local product don't forget to MY tell everyone you know about it!

About the author: Emma Cooper is the voice of the Alternative Kitchen Garden podcast and writes about kitchen gardening and environmental issues. An edible plant geek, she tries to grow her own food sustainably with the help of a reluctant husband and two pet chickens. Visit http://coopette.com for more information.

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by Erik Biksa

CEA: Part II

Creating the Perfect room, Right out of the box

Hello again. If you are just joining us now, in part one of this article we had discussed the benefits of CEA (Controlled Environment Agriculture) grow rooms and the equipment needed to do it.We also touched on the fact that CEA or “sealed” grow rooms aren’t just reserved for the commercial growing elite anymore; equipment is now available for the hobbyist and mid-scale grower that allows for creating the perfect CEA environment, “right out of the box” so to speak.

Improved efficiency Thermal covers installed over hot air ducting and air cooled light reflectors will reduce the frequency at which the AC needs to cycle, saving money and keeping optimal temperatures.

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"Light leaks from intense light outside of the growing area can be a nuisance and light infiltration during the dark cycle is a serious problem for most flowering plants."

Now, let’s get down to business and discuss some tips and tricks in setting up the CEA endeavor, how to get the most out of it and we will even talk about nutrients for bigger yields in CEA grow rooms.

Ideally, you will be setting up a pre-fabricated growing enclosure in a customized out of the way spare room. The room that you either use as the grow room or to house your pre-fabricated growing enclosure should be well insulated. If the room is not well insulated, for example windowed areas have not been effectively sealed off, you may experience audible hums and buzzes outside of the growing area. Light leaks from intense light outside of the growing area can be a nuisance and light infiltration during the dark cycle is a serious problem for most flowering plants. Grow tents or hydro huts work great for blocking light; however, they don’t stop much in the way of sound or vibrations. This is why you need to beef-up the insulation in the room housing your grow tent. Heavy gym mats are excellent for dampening vibrations on walls and floors in temporary situations where alterations to the room are kept at a minimum.

You can either set-up the AC (air-conditioner) directly in the grow tent if it is a portable unit, or if it is a window unit or you are not using a grow tent, you will set-up the AC in the room itself. “Split Unit” ACs are preferred because they do not exchange the air in the grow room, so the additional CO2 (carbon dioxide) that you provide by way of tank and regulator or by gas-fired generator is used more efficiently. Even though the more common types of air-conditioners exchange some level of outside air, they allow for increasing CO2 levels much more efficiently than could be accomplished by intake and exhaust fans in common in/out style gardens.

If you are using a tank and regulator to supplement CO2 levels, you should ensure that the CO2 released is used as efficiently as possible. Replacing CO2 tanks is not inexpensive when you need to do it frequently; plus lugging around the heavy metal cylinders is about as much fun as transporting a missile.

In a typical CEA situation that uses air-cooled lighting and a common portable room AC (with discharge hose) a SCUBA sized (20 pound) CO2 tank will last about seven to 10 days. The most important times to have higher than ambient CO2 levels are in mid and late vegetative growth as well as early and midflowering (see chart on page 68). CO2 supplementation should be drastically reduced or altogether eliminated in the ripening phase to promote better tastes, stronger and more complex aromas and more intense and vivid colorations.

When installing air-cooled lamp reflectors make sure that they are adequately supported and that hooks, etc. are securely MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

61

CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right Out of the Box "Since there are little or no air exchanges in CEA systems, the air is “manufactured” by the grower." anchored. Having heavy-weight lamp reflectors come crashing down on your plants is dangerous for obvious reasons. Be especially diligent if you live in an area prone to earthquakes; seriously. Typically chains are preferred for hanging heavy weight reflectors, although they are not as easily adjusted as with heavy-duty yo-yo type adjustable light hangers. Having an extra safety chain on each heavy weight lamp reflector is never a bad idea. Remember that “Murphy was an optimist!”

If using water-cooled lighting systems you will have to make sure there is enough support to hold up around 60 pounds per light. A falling water-cooled lighting system could be especially disastrous if the water-cooled lighting system was not being operated with a “no flow, no go” controller (in line with return water supply).

High quality photometrically engineered air-cooled reflectors are perfect for creating a higher level of energy efficiency and CO2 effectiveness when converting an existing in/out grow room into a CEA system. By cutting down on how often your AC cycles to cool the sealed growing environment, you are much further ahead. Water-cooled heat exchangers can also be incorporated into air-cooled lighting fixtures for further efficiency gains and reductions in the heat emitted.

Keeping grow room air fresh and clean while reducing spores and dust is also an important aspect in CEA systems. Since

Water cooled lighting This small and productive CEA system uses a water cooled 1000 watt lighting system to provide very bright light and maintain optimal temperatures.

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CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right Out of the Box "Integrated “smart” controllers are a good investment and are more accurate than common household thermostats and dehumidistats."

Lung room When setting up your grow tent in a lung room, you will need to have an intake and exhaust in the grow tent. Keeping the air fresh and clean is important!

there are little or no air exchanges in CEA systems, the air is “manufactured” by the grower. While this requires equipment and good management practices, it affords the ultimate level of control to deliver the yield levels only capable of nextgeneration indoor gardens. A carbon filter and HEPA filter combination is the best solution. The air is drawn through the activated carbon in the filter from the grow room by the fan.

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The fan then blows the filtered air through an inline HEPA filter as it is discharged back into the room again.Very large installations may incorporate a germicidal lamp after the fan in the placement of the system.

Your air filtration system will be much more effective if optimal humidity levels are maintained, for example 50 to 60 per cent RH (relative humidity). In a sealed CEA system this is accomplished in two ways: 1) when the AC cycles it removes moisture from the air, lowering humidity, and 2) by installing the correct sized de-humidifier.

In some environments, it may actually become necessary to install a humidifier to keep humidity levels from going below 40 per cent RH. Either way, both the temperature and humidity need to be controlled. As mentioned in the previous installment, integrated “smart” controllers are a good investment and are more accurate than common household thermostats and dehumidistats. Plus, they work together when incorporated on the same unit, and will not conflict with each other as a result.

Units that have remote probes, especially for temperature, are

CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right Out of the Box

Clean, fresh air When manufacturing the air within a CERA system, cleaner air can be maintained with a combination of inline activated carbon and HEPA filters.

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preferred. For optimal results, measure and control the environment in the plant canopy, not the outside walls of the garden.

If you are using bottled CO2, you can save valuable CO2 that can be lost while a portable room type AC (discharge hose) is cycling by plugging your CO2 REG system (regulator, flow meter, solenoid) into a device that “defeats” the CO2 power circuit when the AC comes on.

This way, the CO2 dispensed by the more costly tanks does not escape the room, and gets used by the crop. These devices are commonly available at hydroponics suppliers, or can be wired by qualified persons using a relay contact switch.

When using a gas-fired CO2 generator, only infrared monitors and controllers are recommended versus timers, which can be acceptable when using bottled CO2. The output from the monitor that controls the CO2 generator can also be incorporated with a CO2 “defeat” plug,

Cool flames Gas fired CO2 generators burn propane or natural gas to make carbon dioxide (CO2).

Water cooled models help reduce the amount of heat introduced in the process.

CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right Out of the Box so the gas fired CO2 generator isn’t heating up the room at the same time as the AC is trying to bring temperatures down.

Today growers are very fortunate. In the past, much of the growing gear had to be improvised or custom fabricated. Today growers can purchase tailor made equipment that is ready to use out of the box and that contains detailed instructions for installation and operation. On top of that, when you build it yourself, there is no warranty. Plug and play growing technologies are now cost effective due to their mass appeal versus much of the home-made growing equipment growers were forced to use in the past; making CEA set-ups easier and more productive than ever before.

Now here is some golden information for CEA systems operators. While the inputs will differ slightly from plant variety to plant variety and even from strain to strain, this growing “formula,” that we will call the CEA Map can help anybody who has a well constructed CEA system achieve the next-generation in crop yields.

The CEA Map: Growth Phase

Light Hours CO2 Levels Lumens* (per 24 hrs.)

(PPM)

Temp.

Humidity

Pre-Veg

24

1000

600-800

82°F

65-75%

Early Veg

18

2000

800-1000

85°/80°F

55-65%

Veg

18

3000

1000-1200

85°/80°F

55-65%

Early Flower

12

3000-4000

1200

85°/80°F

50-60%

Mid Flowering

12

4500-6000

1200-1800

85°/80°F

50-60%

Late Flowering

10 - 12

4000-5000

600-800

75°/65°F

50-60%

*Note: T-5 fluorescent lighting is recommended for pre-veg, MH lighting for early veg, veg and early flower and HPS lighting is recommended for mid and late flowering phases. Light measurements are at the tops of the plants.

Once you have the perfect controllable CEA environment, you have the ability to reproduce a growing environment time and time again. While the CEA Map gifted to you above provides a solid foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment.

Make sure you record your temperatures, humidity, CO2 and light levels on a daily basis, if possible. This will allow you to look through your records and see what type of environment is giving a particular strain the best results. Also, this way, growers are able to share the data they collect so growing out a new strain can be more akin to following a formula rather than a loosely put together recipe.

As an indoor grower, not only are you fortunate enough to be able to create a laboratory grade CEA system relatively inexpensively and right of the box with plug and play technologies, you also have access to superior crop nutrition versus the fertilizers available to growers in the days of old.

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CEA: Creating the Perfect Room, Right Out of the Box "Some nutrient packages are even self pH adjusting, and will work in any type of growing medium due to improvements in nutrient chelation technologies."

It’s true that plants only need 13 or so basic fertilizer elements to survive, and yes cheap commonly available fertilizers do work to some effect. However, there have been some great advances in crop feeding technologies in the last decade or so, particularly with regards to products formulated for high-output specialty indoor gardening.

There are now complete nutrient packages available that direct growers on a week to week basis for each phase of plant development to deliver the optimal nutrient profile to create peak results in each distinct growth phase.Yes, “feed charts” or “feeding programs” have been available for some time, although they were pieced together over time, in some cases even decades. This means that while the products used might “get along” they really were not engineered looking at the whole picture, rather in fragments.

While these programs have served growers relatively well, there is a new generation in what may now be dubbed as “feeding systems.” In these packages, which are designed and available for different grower skill levels, the products used are working synergistically together. This ensures that there is no overlap of active ingredients to create imbalances, and can also ensure the

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stability and bio-active levels of the nutrient solution they help to create. In fact, some of these nutrient packages are even self pH adjusting, and will work in any type of growing medium due to improvements in nutrient chelation technologies.

Just as CEA systems are and have been the next step in creating the growing atmosphere, specialized nutrient systems containing chelated essential elements, amino acids, wetting agents, fulvates, humates, vitamins, enzymes, carbohydrates, beneficial fungi and even beneficial super bacteria that use pH smart components are the next step in crop feeding technologies.

It seems not much has really changed in the way people grow plants until very recently, thanks to the surge in intensive indoor gardening. In fact, we may be in a renaissance of sorts with regards to crop growth technologies, that will help us to address the growing demands and challenges that lay ahead with our ever expanding population and receding resources.

Be proud to be a part of this change, and know that you have the opportunity to be a pioneer in the brave new world of indoor CEA growing.

MY For an easily-downloadable version of "The CEA Map" visit maximumyield.com and click on October's Online Extras.

The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side of the Greenhouse

by Charlene Rennick

Only 20 per cent of American land is classified as having value for agricultural use. Of that parcel, only about 0.6 acres of farmland will be available to grow food for each American by 2050; and at least 1.2 acres per person is required in order to maintain current American dietary standards (http://dieoff. org). In addition, a high percentage of our richest farmland is already buried underneath sprawling urban centers. The promise of fresh produce grown locally is dwindling away an acre at a time. With this in mind, it is increasingly crucial to protect what is left of our bountiful earth.

Choosing fresh produce used to include using your nose, your eyes and your grip. The closer the scent resembled the fruit or vegetable, the fresher it was. Firmer flesh meant a crisp juicy product. Nice color symbolized great taste. Now we are lucky to be able to distinguish one fruit from another by its smell and appearance. Most produce is characterized by its nondescript odor. Firmness as an indication of quality diminishes as soon as a bite is taken out of the mealy and tasteless center. The essence of fresh produce disappears during the long shipping journey from the place where it is picked unripened and the market where it is destined.

Many disappointed consumers are turning to hobby greenhouses to satisfy their ambition for more palatable food; assume more personal responsibility for reducing carbon emissions; and be reassured that they are eating organicallygrown produce. Commercial greenhouse-grown produce is becoming a more common alternative to imported, expensive and poor quality food.

While tree-ripened fruit is not a practical option for most hobbyists, small greenhouses can be a solution for home-access to fresh herbs, most vegetables and vine-grown fruit.

Adding a greenhouse to your abode involves assessing the available space, determining the accessible sunlight and deciding what you want to grow. The selection of structures ranges from free-standing greenhouses that fit inside an apartment, lean-to style models that attach to an existing exterior wall, small balcony or deck versions and larger free-standing outdoor buildings.

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Next, some research should be done to decide what materials you will need. Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of polycarbonate or glass panes, aluminum or iron frames and options for ventilated environments is a second step. You need to establish a working ratio between the heat/light absorption of your materials and the needs of your crop. Too much sunlight can be just as detrimental to the life of the plants as too little. Finally, consider how much time you have to devote to this project and purchase your greenhouse accordingly.

MY maximumyield.com contains 10+ years of articles from leading indoor gardening experts. For more articles on greenhouse growing check out our article archive.

Greenhouses can range from free-standing structures that fit inside an apartment, lean-to style models that attach to an existing exterior wall, small balcony or deck versions and larger free-standing outdoor buildings.

BEGINNER'S

corner

Plant Nutrients Are Important Hydroponic Supplies

by Susan Slobac

Hydroponic gardening is a form of indoor gardening that uses no soil yet is highly efficient at growing a huge variety of plants.

One of the hydroponics supplies you will need to keep on hand if you are a hydroponic gardener is plant nutrients. Nutrients are formulated so that plants will respond in specific ways, so you can customize the nutrient to each of your plants' life cycles to give them everything they need.

Nutrient is another name for plant food, or fertilizer.

The difference with nutrients is that, when used in a hydroponic gardening application, the nutrient is dissolved in water, and this solution is sprayed or washes over the plant roots. In this way they can take in the food and grow. Because nutrients are constantly consumed by the plants, they need to be replenished on a regular basis.

Nutrients come in a plethora of different varieties.

Many are available in an organic formula, and others are geared toward helping plants increase their resistance to stress while improving root growth as well as the fruit and flower quality.

Nutrients can be very specific to increasing flower size

and weight, helping the flower to grow faster than average. This might be an appropriate variety for an indoor gardener growing florist flowers, for example, or for someone growing vegetables that produce more fruit, such as tomatoes.

In order for your hydroponics system to be complete, you will need other types of hydroponics supplies and equipment. Most systems need a reservoir as part of the hydroponics equipment.

This basin holds the solution in place. Some systems also require a pump and aerator. The pump recirculates the solution from the reservoir up to a tray where plants' crowns are suspended over the solution in an ebb and flow hydroponics system, for example. An aerator is used to pump oxygen into the solution, which helps plants grow even faster. Trays or nets keep the plants out of the solution, while keeping the roots at the appropriate level so they can soak up the nutrient solution.

Hydroponics equipment and nutrients are available from hydroponics retail stores.

MY About the Author: From years of indoor and hydroponic gardening, Susan Slobac has developed an in-depth knowledge of hydroponic supplies.

(Source: Articlesbase.com)

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Food Production

Pyramid

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Part I

by Lee McCall

"Through experimental trial and error, results will vary according to method of cultivation, plant sensitivity, environmental outfit and reaction with combined nutrients."

As indoor gardening and greenhouse production advances into a new age of technology, funding and support, the industry thrives with competition and research to yield the best products for the hobbyist and commercial cultivar.

All over the globe society is grasping the concepts of sustainability through gardening, and improving his and her own quality of life. Research and development combined with the passion to progress will make it possible to positively change our industry and allow for the execution of specific practices. In the modern world of the hydroponic and indoor gardening scene, products are revealed on a regular basis that promote a fierce competitive nature between companies and organizations. I have learned in my experience that multiple companies display strengths and weaknesses when it comes to product development; utilizing all available sources to outfit the perfect custom formula will enable an individual to reach success based on his or her learning abilities, style and understanding. The goal, of course, is to provide your garden with the necessary components that equate to a successful quality harvest without repetitive process and product. Aside from various lighting options, multiple ventilation routes and deciding between the numerous hydroponic and soil applications, exists the vast complexities of nutrition regiments. Every individual from the beginner to the advanced gardener will develop a personal style and recipe to achieve perfection from seed to harvest. Individual preference will vary depending on the comfort level with different products and understanding of the concept that comes with it. Most products available to the consumer are guaranteed to produce an effect, it is the individual operator who decides which is fit for his or her personal penchant.

For the avid enthusiast of hydroponic and soil cultivation, it is imperative to gain as much knowledge about the available options as possible.

Staying up-to-date is important so as not to get left behind in this fast paced industry. Current industry trends can help guide growers through the collage of never ending nutrients and supplements. Foliar sprays, root tonics, growth and bloom boosters, seaweed complexes, microbial inoculants, carbohydrate supplements, base nutrition recipes, hormones, vitamins and enzymatic formulas are a few to name that are patented under numerous company names, each differing in blend. Not to MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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"Human nature thrives off the desire for variety and option; gardens are similar in the fact that they flourish when environmental conditions are optimal above ground, and elemental nutritional aspects are delivered below." mention most of these are available to suffice the needs of both organic and synthetic style gardeners. How it is possible to depict which brand yields better produce is left completely up to the operator and his or her tastes. It has been proven that there is more than one way to achieve a particular end result. Obviously through experimental trial and error, results will vary according to method of cultivation, plant sensitivity, environmental outfit and reaction with combined nutrients. Even if two different gardens inhabit the same species of tomato or pepper, the end results more than likely will fluctuate depending on the numerous internal and external factors. Comprehending what the species and variety is capable of will aid the cultivar in the quest for the ultimate garden. Many are led astray because they are unaware of the fact a plant can only do so much with the heredity it entails. For example, cherry tomato strains are not going to yield the same biomass compared to that of Beef Steaks, or such as Caribbean Red habaneros to bell peppers no matter what fortification. A flawless production takes time, dedication and practice to achieve; especially without the assistance of supplemental CO2 to boost metabolic qualities allowing the indoor gardener to basically cheat and manipulate nature. However, manipulation is the idea after all in the world of indoor horticulture.

Human nature thrives off the desire for variety and option; gardens are similar in the fact that they flourish when environmental conditions are optimal above ground, and elemental nutritional aspects are delivered below. Delivering an assortment of these aspects to your garden will accelerate productivity and quality of the produce.

Initially a base nutrient formula should be acquired for major macro-nutritional delivery. Think of this as the foundation of the plant food pyramid; it delivers the essentials the garden uses the most of, and supports the delivery of other micronutrients and supplements to work better. Available in liquid as well as dehydrated versions, organic, synthetic, one part, two parts and three parts, choose a prospect based on individual understanding and your own comfort. I personally do not 78

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recommend incorporating multiple liquid forms of base blends as this is unnecessary, and could potentially cause a drastic lock-out of the essential compounds contained within each product. Upon decision of a primary base, the rest of the recipe can be assembled accordingly through the various stages of production.

Growth enhancers such as compost teas are excellent additives to take advantage of throughout the duration of both growth and blooming cycles. These hearty brews collaborate well with most base formulas and introduce a collection of beneficial bacteria, fungi, humic acids, protozoa and nematodes. The effects are excellent, stimulating essential uptake of micro- and macro-nutrients, increasing environmental resistance to insects, heat, and frost and dramatically improving production. Quality manufactured versions are available to the consumer for immediate use, or one can produce a home-made batch.

"Roots and grow mediums are conditioned in a way that takes residual particulates found in the rhizosphere and breaks them down, recycling them so to speak."

If compost teas are not desired, introduce intermittent inoculations of mycorrhizae and beneficial bacillus species; available in powder or liquid concentrates, root masses will flourish and grow medium will maintain fertile sterility. When using these products containing dense amounts of micro biological life, think of using chlorinated water as absolutely prohibited. Expect a drastic reduction in potential output of the appointed products if water quality is poor, or tap water is to serve as the source for mixing and dilution. Reverse osmosis machines and other water treatment options are available for a reasonable price considering the money it will eventually save with regards to the quality of produce. Inoculations are sufficient every two to three weeks throughout the life cycle of plant or tree. I do not recommend using them every feeding or reservoir change; overabundance could literally lead to feeding the organisms and depriving the garden.

Enzymes have the same effect in the garden as to that of digestive enzymes in the human body. They serve as a catalyst for beneficial microbes, comprised of proteins and amino acids that basically induce a process that â&#x20AC;&#x153;pre-chewsâ&#x20AC;? the nutrients, speeding up the assimilation of delivery to the plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response system. Roots and grow mediums are conditioned in a way that MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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takes residual particulates found in the rhizosphere and breaks them down, recycling them so to speak.

Through my trials as an active hobbyist, I have developed a firm belief in guanos for the spectacular effect they have on foliar, fruit, vegetable and flower development. Qualities are depicted through growth formation and structural increase.

The bat droppings are literally mined from all different regions of the globe; from the dense tropics to the low plains in Texas.

Different strengths are available rich in valuable nitrates and phosphates. A negative aspect to the production of bat guano, however, is the mining process which disturbs the ecological balance of the caves from which it is created.

Sea kelp is available in vast surplus from different oceans, and when processed makes a powerful growth tonic for plants as it is absorbed through both foliar and root applications.

Containing specialty hormones like gibberellins, amino acids, micro- and macro-nutrients, these powerful algae are a great amendment to soil and hydroponic crops. Like guano, dry and liquid options are manufactured for public consummation.

Sea kelp is appropriate for use throughout the duration of any gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and bloom phase. When conducting a foliar spray under the conditions of a high intensity discharge lit grow room, remember that it is vital to wait until the dark cycles are active. Light penetration may magnify through water droplets from foliar sprays and literally burn delicate foliage. Controlled ventilation and steady air flow through the area will deter mold and mildew that searches for high humidity situations capable of ruining many indoor orchards and crops as well.

This concludes a short, but informative part one of the twopart series covering a simple yet informative structure for several organic ingredients found useful in food pyramid production.

Next month will include an additional insight of some synthetic enhancers, and more organic supplements capable of adding definite results to the garden and the designated buffet of endless ingredients. Sugars that satisfy every gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sweet tooth, worm castings for the soil and reservoir, not to mention some simple ingredients to keep vigor and health during dramatic fruit production. Part two of the food pyramid series will provide everything needed to finish out a healthy harvest, and ensure crops are fulfilling their ultimate potential.

MY All of Lee McCall's articles can be found at www.maximumyield.com under our author archive.

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Effective Micro-organisms

by Luis Bartolo

Have you noticed that an increasing number of people are opting to use organics in their gardens? A global awareness is taking shape, which has led many researchers to seek out alternatives to the excess of chemical products at our disposal.

Effective Micro-organisms (E.M) are one of the newest alternatives available to growers to help them achieve some form of sustainable agriculture.

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A Brief Introduction to Micro-organisms Micro-organisms are tiny units of life too small to be seen with the naked eye and they exist everywhere in nature. Microorganisms are crucial for maintaining ecological balance. They carry out chemical processes that make it possible for all other organisms, including humans, to live. The friendly guys of the microbial world are known as beneficial micro-organisms and

"The uniqueness of micro-organisms and their often unpredictable nature and biosynthetic capabilities, has made them likely candidates for solving particularly difficult problems in the life sciences fields."

the not-so-friendly group is called pathogens; pathogens are harmful and capable of producing disease, decay and pollution.

The uniqueness of micro-organisms and their often unpredictable nature and biosynthetic capabilities, has made them likely candidates for solving particularly difficult problems in the life sciences fields. The different ways in which microorganisms have been used over the past 50 years to advance technology provide a most impressive record of achievement.

These effective uses have been seen in the fields of human and animal health, food processing, food safety and quality, genetic engineering, environmental protection, agricultural biotechnology and more effective treatment of agricultural and municipal wastes. Many of these technological advances would not have been possible using straightforward chemical and physical engineering methods, or if they were, they would not have been practical or economically feasible.

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Effective Micro-organisms

"Sustainable agriculture addresses many environmental and social concerns, but it offers innovative and economically viable opportunities for growers."

Changing World, New Growing Methods Agriculture has changed dramatically, especially since the end of World War II. Food and fiber productivity soared due to new technologies, mechanization, increased chemical use and specialization and government policies that favored maximizing production. These changes allowed fewer farmers with reduced labor demands to produce the majority of the food and fiber in the U.S. Although these changes have had many positive effects and reduced many risks in farming, there have also been significant costs associated. Prominent among these are topsoil depletion; groundwater contamination; the decline of family farms; continued neglect of the living and working conditions for farm laborers; increasing costs of production; and the disintegration of economic and social conditions in rural communities.

A growing movement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sustainability - has emerged during the past two decades which questions the role of the agricultural establishment in promoting practices that contribute to these social problems. Today this movement for sustainable agriculture is garnering increasing support and acceptance within mainstream agriculture. Not only does sustainable agriculture address many environmental and social concerns, but it offers innovative and economically viable opportunities for growers, laborers, consumers, policymakers and many others in the entire food system.

Often engineers have attempted to solve these problems using established chemical and physical methods. However, they have usually found that such problems cannot be solved without using microbial methods and technologies in coordination with agricultural production.

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.

E.M

E.M. as in Effective Micro-organisms For many years, soil microbiologists and microbial ecologists have differentiated between soil micro-organisms that are beneficial or harmful according to their functions and how they affect soil quality, plant growth and yield and plant health.

The concept of effective micro-organisms (E.M.) was developed by Professor Teruo Higa, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan (Higa, 1991; Higa and Wididana, 1991a). E.M. consists of mixed cultures of beneficial and naturally-occurring micro-organisms that can be applied as inoculants to increase the microbial diversity of soils and plant.

Current research indicates that E.M. cultures can suppress soil-borne pathogens; accelerate the decomposition of organic wastes; increase the availability of mineral nutrients and useful organic compounds to plants; enhance the activities of beneficial micro-organisms (e.g. mycorrhizae and nitrogen fixing bacteria); and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. E.M. helps to increase beneficial soil microorganisms and suppress harmful ones.

So basically, we could sum up the E.M. as follows: • E.M. is the trademark used to identify this particular mixture of beneficial organisms.

• E.M. is a combined culture of aerobic micro-organisms (requiring oxygen to survive) and anaerobic (requires no oxygen to survive) that co-exist together to the mutual advantage of both (symbiosis).

• E.M. combines with the existing micro-organisms within the soil. They work together to build a healthy living soil.

• E.M. is not toxic or pathogenic and is safe for humans, animals and the environment E.M. is not a substitute for other management practices. It is, however, an added dimension for optimizing our best soil and crop management practices such as crop rotations, use of organic amendments, conservation tillage, crop residue recycling and biocontrol of pests. If used properly, E.M. can significantly enhance the beneficial effects of these practices.

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.

M E.

Effective Micro-organisms and Sustainable Agriculture For a sustainable environment and agriculture, conceptual design is important in developing new technologies for utilizing beneficial and effective micro-organisms.

The basis of this is to first conceive an ideal or model and then devise a strategy and method for achieving the reality.

However, it is necessary to coordinate and carefully observe the materials, environment and technologies constituting the method. Moreover one should adopt a philosophical attitude in applying microbial technologies to agricultural production and conservation systems.

There are many opinions on what an ideal agricultural system is. Many would agree that such an idealized system should produce food on a long-term sustainable basis. Many would also insist that it maintain and improve human health, be economically and spiritually beneficial to both producers and consumers, actively preserve and protect the environment, be self-contained and regenerative and produce enough food for an increasing world population.

"Most organics including animal manures and composts have populations of micro-organisms."

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Applications and Usage of E.M. Most organics including animal manures and composts have populations of micro-organisms. Many of these are beneficial upon introduction to the soil; however, they are soon overwhelmed by the existing soil micro-organisms.

Thus, the beneficial effects of micro-organisms introduced with the application of composts are often short lived. On application E.M. cultures are subject to the same fate when applied to the soil environment. But the advantage of E.M. is that beneficial micro-organisms are in much greater numbers, and in optimally-balanced populations when introduced, so they remain dominant in the soil for a much longer time.

The effectiveness of E.M. can be extended in soils by three applications of E.M. at eight to 10 day intervals during the first three to four weeks after planting a crop. This will ensure that E.M. populations remain high throughout the critical period when young seedlings and plants are vulnerable to environmental stresses (drought, heat, weeds, and pathogens). It is at this stage when the greatest loss in crop yield and quality occurs.

E.M. has been used on many different soils and crops over a wide range of conditions. Results show that in most cases E.M. gives positive results. E.M. is not a substitute for other management practices. E.M. technology is an added dimension for optimizing our best soil and crop management practices such as crop rotations, use of composts, crop residue recycling and biological control of pests. If used properly E.M. enhances soil fertility and promotes growth, flowering, fruit development and ripening in crops. It can increase crop yields and improve crop quality as well as accelerating the breakdown of organic matter from crop residues. The population of beneficial microorganisms in the soil is also increased helping to control soil diseases through competitive exclusion.

Pests and pathogens are suppressed or controlled through natural processes by enhancing the competitive and antagonistic activities of the micro-organisms in the E.M. inoculants. MY To review all of Luis Bartolo's articles visit our author archive on www.maximumyield.com

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GREEN THUMB

gardening

Is Organic Food Better?

YES

Four Reasons to Say

If you are an advocate of growing organically, you cannot avoid getting asked the question "is organic food better?" I love to be able to honestly answer "yes" to that one!

But you can’t get away with such a simple answer when a more complex one is actually called for. So let's take a deeper look into the issue.

Nutrients. There are plenty of studies showing that fruits and vegetables that are grown organically contain more nutrients. The reason for this is likely because these vegetables grow more slowly, and consequently can accumulate and compound more of the various kinds of nutrients. These include antioxidants as well as vitamins and phytonutrients.

Less chemicals. Growing organic vegetables means using alternative methods to strong chemicals. The chemicals used in non-organic farming are not only toxic to the targeted pests and weeds but to all living organisms, including you and me. And what's really scary is that we are exposed to so many different substances that all mix in our bodies, and no one

by Amelia Lathyrus

really knows what kind of synergy effects can occur. Choosing to eat organic means cutting out at least some of the chemicals in the mix.

Better taste. For the same reason that organically grown food contains more nutrients it also tastes better! Of course, this is a quality hard to measure in scientific terms, but blindfold tests commonly give the result that the organic variant does indeed taste better. Growing more slowly the vegetables can accumulate more of the taste-giving substances.

The environment. One obvious reason that opting to go organic is better is the fact that it is the best choice for the environment. The absence of chemicals is just one facet to the reasons why.

Conclusion. Not convinced that organic food is better.

Then I suggest you start from the beginning, do your research.

It is a great thing to be able to make that choice and finally say Yes to organics,Yes to health and Yes to the environment. MY

About the Author: “Is organic food better?” is only one of the questions you must ask when beginning your exploration of the field of organic food.

Eating and growing organic food are such important issues in today’s world of accumulative environmental destruction and growing health problems. For more valuable information, please go to Amelia Lathyrus’ site, www.OrganicGardenTips.org

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Do Plants Need Climate Controllers?

Gardeners all have the same goal in mind; to obtain maximum yields in a short time frame. To succeed, it is necessary to understand your plant’s needs and to cultivate them in the ideal environment.

This article serves to expand your knowledge on plant’s needs and climate controllers that ease gardener’s tasks.

by Isabelle Lemay agr. and Mélissa Léveillé

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Plants are organisms that operate like a factory. For efficient production, specific processes must be adhered to. The grower must provide the primary elements needed to produce a quality finished product, and do so in the best environment possible. Comparably, the growth of a plant depends on biochemical procedures such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration. A well balanced process counts on the primary part’s availability and the quality of the environment.

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

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

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

=

Photosynthesis gains

Cellular respiration loss

Photorespiration* loss

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

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

Not only the presence of those elements is important but their concentration and proportion must be considered.

Unwanted effects might occur if unbalanced concentration of these elements is present.

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

Many environmental aspects influence the plant’s growth such as relative humidity, temperature, air movement as well as lighting and the growing media. Each of these factors might have different effects on plants; here is a few of them: RELATIVE HUMIDITY Affects the plant’s transpiration process, in which water evaporates by the stomata (a stoma [also stomate; plural stomata]: a pore, found on leaves and stem’s epidermis used for gas exchange). The drier the air, the greater the water loss; the higher the relative humidity level, the lesser the plant’s water exudation.

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

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

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

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

AIR CIRCULATION Increases CO2 concentration towards leaf area.

Allows better light penetration.

Results in an increase of photosynthesis.

Strong wind may cause withering and stomata closing.

LIGHTING INTENSITY

Essential to photosynthesis.

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

Light intensity varies with plant’s species.

MEDIA CONDITIONS

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

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Thoroughly understanding environmental effects on plants is not an easy task. Other than the ones discussed, we have to consider some interactions between some effects.

This means the improvement of one factor will not necessarily augment the photosynthesis process until other conditions are favorable and complementary as well.

For optimal photosynthesis, we have to perfectly balance lighting, temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentration. Please note that an augmentation in photosynthesis will also increases the plants other needs like water and nutrients!

A growing interest for indoor gardening Due to the complexity of the elements discussed, many choose indoor gardening to better control their gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environment.

This way they can aim for faster growth and maximum yields with higher quality.

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

Indoor gardening seems to provide a better closed in artificial MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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

Why use climate controllers?

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

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

Specific controllers manage only one climate correction at a time. Thermostat, hygrostat and CO2 controllers are found in this category like lighting or irrigation timers. Specific controllers might be recommended for beginners. They allow to gradually understand the climate conditions and to equip their garden sparely to avoid spending a large amount of money at once.

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

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

For inter related process, it is recommended to use integrated controllers. These controllers called “intelligent” can be 94

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programmed to take in consideration complementary actions or contradictory ones. They assure a better climate management and great energy savings.

Controller’s quality Many factors are to be considered when it comes to quality and some are more important than others. Sensor precision is a major detail to contemplate when purchasing a controller.

Sensors can be mechanical, analog or digital.

Mechanical sensors are cheaper but do not provide great precision towards their reading and high range differential; they do not provide the kind of tightly controlled conditions required by plants for optimal growth. Unfortunately, they are still in wide use by some horticultural controller manufacturers offering low cost products. They are easy to recognize as the setting(s) and knob(s) advance by increments making a distinct “click” noise.

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

The controller’s quality also depends on its other components.

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

Measurement’s precision as well as temperature, relative humidity and carbon dioxide concentration‘s control devices are so important for indoor gardening success that this matter MY will be elaborated on in future issues.

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

TIPS &

tricks

Keep it Clean:

by Grodan

Maintaining your Hydroponic System

Always cut off dead leaves and remove them from the grow room. Decaying organic matter attracts fungus gnats.You should also remove diseased plants, so the infection does not spread. Clean the plant box well with a 10 per cent bleach solution before putting it back in the grow room. When you change water in your stock tank, wash the tank well with a 10 per cent bleach solution.

If you use big trays for your blocks and slabs consider washing these too, especially if you have had a problem with root rot.

Drippers If you use a drip system buy a few extra drippers, so you can change them if any are clogged up. Have a bucket with vinegar in your grow room and throw the clogged drippers in, so they will be clean and ready to use next time you need to change a dripper.

Ebb/flood systems We recommend that you spend an extra couple of dollars and get a timer that can be set at five minute intervals, so a full cycle will only soak the stonewool for 10 minutes. To avoid salt built up we suggest that you top water your plants once per week. Also be sure to have a tray with deep enough grooves so that water drains away from the cubes/slabs.

EC and pH The EC level (nutrient concentration) varies depending on the plant stage or how fast your plant is growing. Soil/peat has a buffer and not all you put in is available to the plant.

One to two hours before planting, don't forget to saturate the stonewool with pH 5.5 water. Never go below pH 5.0 or the stonewool may be damaged! Below pH 5.0 and higher than pH 7.0 the plant cannot readily take up nutrient. Immediately before planting flush the stonewool with your nutrient 96

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

solution. Drain to waste! And then put the stonewool product in your system. Once the plant starts growing the pH in the tank and in the medium will go up. It is a natural response - it means your plant is growing!

Stock tank solution We recommend that you completely change the solution once a week.Yes, you can top up the tank and adjust EC/pH, but your solution may be out of vital micro-nutrients or be infected with pythium (root rot). If your stock tank contains ready to use (diluted) nutrient solution, please use phosphoric acid (or lemon juice) as pH down. If you have a fertilizer injector connected to a tank with concentrated solution, it is better to use sulfuric acid as pH down.

Learn from yourself Consider keeping a journal that lists the EC, pH, temperature, CO2 and light level each day.

This way you can learn from your own mistakes and successes. Records like this also make it a lot easier for the shop to answer your questions when you have a problem.

Check the basics Before you blame your plant food for unhappy plants, check your journal. Everything must be in balance. Change one parameter at a time and look for the effect. A common problem is stock water that is too cold. Consider putting a

heating element in the tank (to 70ยบF) or put heating mats under the stonewool. If you have trouble getting the plant to set flowers/fruit try to make a greater difference between night and day temperature. If that is not enough, increase CO2 injection during daytime.

A Common Problem Calcium deficit If the youngest leaves are curled downward, more than likely it indicates a calcium deficiency. If old leaves are curled; something is probably wrong in the root zone (which also reduces the calcium uptake) Ca deficiency in leaves.

Calcium deficiency is the result of insufficient water movement through the plant. Remember, calcium only travels in the water stream of the plant, not in the nutrient stream. Therefore, calcium deficiency is usually (90 per cent of the time) related to the climate in the growing area. High humidity will prevent calcium uptake even if there is sufficient Ca in the feed solution. Also, large day/night fluctuations in humidity will disrupt the Ca flow within the plant and lead to blossom-end rot (BER).

Another cause of BER or obvious Ca deficiency in the leaves is poor root development.

This is a result of low substrate temperatures or the presence of a root Ca deficiency in fruit. pathogen such as pythium or phytophthora. Calcium is taken up by the area of the root immediately behind the root-tip. If the roots are not actively growing, new root tips will not be formed and consequently, Ca uptake will be reduced.

Check the Plant!

Make a habit of taking a close look at your plants every day.

Do they look perky? Look for leaf color, leaf shape and bugs and then update your journal. If you catch a problem early it MY can be fixed!

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by Bob Taylor : Chief Chemist of Flairform

Ventilation Basics Artificial lighting and plant transpiration generates heat and humidity that can produce poor growing conditions.Ventilation equipment must be capable of removing this excess heat and humidity.

Equipment Overview Exhaust fan: Generally speaking, the exhaust fan (figure one) should be capable of removing or exchanging the volume of air in the room within five minutes. Consult your fan manufacturer or grow shop for the best fan size and type.You will need to account for room size; configuration of ducting (diameter, length and junctions/bends); inlet/outlet filters; the maximum temperature of incoming air; and the total wattage of all electrical devices in the grow room. To prevent condensation from pooling in the fan, mount it vertically in the ceiling as opposed to high on a wall.

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Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

Figure one: Basic layout for ventilation and lighting.

inlet fan: Pushing air into the room (figure one) helps maximize the effectiveness and lifespan of the exhaust fan. To ensure the exhaust fan is not restricted, use an inlet fan of equivalent airflow capacity.

Tips for best airflow: 1. Where air is being moved through ducting, centrifugal/ radial (or mixed inline) fans are the most efficient (figure two).

2. Where air enters the fan unit/ducting, ensure it is mounted flush with a solid and sealed surface of diameter at least double the diameter of the inlet itself (figure one). A flange may be needed to achieve this.

3. Keep objects at least one meter away from the inlet.

4. Position a diffuser screen on the opening. A filter (preferably activated carbon) will help act as a barrier to spores and pests.

: Ducting For maximum fan efficiency keep ducting as short and straight as possible. Where junctions are needed, employ ‘Y’ junctions instead of ‘Ts.’ If the diameter of ducting needs to changed en-route, ensure this change is gradual (e.g.

10 degrees). oscillating fan: Usually operates 24 hours a day to ensure air is always distributed evenly (but gently) through the room (figure one). This eliminates hot spots (zones prone to CO2 depletion or excessive humidity and temperature that are most likely to occur nearest lights and dense foliage). relative location of inlet, exhaust and oscillating fans: As a general rule, try to keep the air moving in one direction; this creates and maintains air momentum. The ideal configuration depends on many factors including room size and shape, and the relative placement of equipment/plants within the room. As a general rule, locate the inlet and exhaust at opposite ends of the room, with an oscillating fan maintaining the airflow direction provided by the inlet (figure one). For wider rooms especially, employ multiple inlets and exhausts and space them MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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evenly across the room’s width. This will help ensure all air is replaced.

To verify the system is working throughout the room, routinely check temperature and humidity at various points.

I strongly suggest speaking to your local grow shop when designing your ventilation system. A system which is perfect for one particular climate may be useless in another.

thermometers and These devices provide minimum/ hygrometers: maximum data and will inform of the worst case scenario (figure one). Position the probe in that place of highest temperature/humidity (typically directly beneath the lights and amongst the foliage). However, for accuracy, shield the probe (or sensor) from direct heat and light. grow room dimensions: The more plants there are in a given area, the quicker temperature and humidity will rise to extremes. Therefore, aim to minimize the number of plants.

If this is not feasible then ventilation rates must be increased.

Switching fans on and off Automated method:

Thermostats and humidistats are useful for activating the inlet and exhaust fans (figure one).

Position the thermostat’s sensor at the hottest point in the foliage, and the humidistat’s sensor at the most humid point (determined using a thermometer and hygrometer). For day time (lights on) they should be set to activate the fans when either the temperature exceeds 80°F or the humidity exceeds 70 per cent RH. At night time, the temperature should be allowed to drop to 68°F. To achieve this, you will need a controller that allows separate settings for both day and night. Or, you will need a separate, dedicated set of fans for both day and night. An axial fan in the ceiling (controlled with or without a timer) may be sufficient to produce the correct night time conditions.

Manual method: In extremely hot or humid climates it is usually necessary to have fans running constantly so the absence of control gear (thermostats, etc.) is of little concern. The temperature and humidity targets mentioned above still apply. A modest degree of control can be gained using a timer, a surprisingly effective aid, especially if the weather is consistent or predictable.

Figure three: The heat generated by HID lamps is the biggest problem facing indoor growers. An effective way of removing this heat is by directly ducting it away through air cooled shades.

These simplify ventilation requirements by minimizing hot spots and enabling lights to be positioned closer to foliage.

Temperature still too high?

Consider the following options: 1. Shift the lights-on period tonight.

2. Air-condition the incoming air.

3. Reduce the amount of lighting.

4. Employ air-cooled light/shades (figure three).

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

Figure two: Centrifugal fans are the most efficient for moving air through ducting.

Copyright @2008 www.flairform.com

Ventilation Basics

Temperature too low?

Low temperatures will cause humidity (RH) to increase. For example, the RH of a body of air will increase from 55 per cent to 100 per cent if its temperature drops from 77°F to 59°F. Therefore, consider pre-heating incoming air. If air is coming directly from outside, bring it from another room where it has been able to warm up first. If incoming air is not heated you may be restricted as to how frequently fans are operated, especially at night when lights off.

MY Looking to read more of Bob Taylor's articles? Visit our author archive on www.maximumyield.com

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by Ryan Zadow

The Real Dirt On

Humic Substances

Humic substances (HS) are the least understood component of soil, yet one of the most important materials found in a healthy balanced soil system. While much has been discovered over the last 40 years, scientists who have experience working with HS realize that the more we know the more there is to learn about these versatile materials. Over the past 15 years hydroponic growers have also proven that soluble carbon, in particular humic substances, are a limiting factor in aqueous based cultures and soilless media. Today most gardeners are familiar with HS on some level and have seen the benefits, yet many are still scratching their heads when it comes to understanding the labeling. The focus of this article is not to re-address the qualities and benefits of HS. Instead it is to explore the confusion surrounding analysis, registration issues and misconceptions about humic and fulvic products in general.

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Currently, there is considerable buzz about humic and fulvic acid, which is no surprise to people who have experience using a high quality product. But confusion due to product labeling has many people questioning the humic substance industry. The way a product is described, guaranteed and marketed is largely governed by state agricultural regulatory departments. Unfortunately, there is no â&#x20AC;&#x153;standardizedâ&#x20AC;? analytical method for quantification, and accepted labeling practices often vary greatly from state to state. For example, California and Oregon will not allow the term fulvic acid to be used on any product label. Instead these state agencies consider fulvic and humic acid the same substance and require that only humic acid be used on labels.

This creates analytical challenges and mass confusion for those products that are fulvic isolates, having no measurable humic acid in them. This might help to explain why some products

Humic Substan

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Photo courtesy of Mesa Verde Resources. Humic substances start out as raw ore; they are insoluble and hard to break down. The way a product is made soluble can indirectly influence the testing method used to guarantee it.

will guarantee a product as 0.01 per cent and others may be claiming eight per cent. To help sort these issues out further we will review some of the commonly used, commercially available analytical methods as well as their advantages and disadvantages. First, to better understand the focus of this article we must define HS and the fractions thereof.

For the sake of this article we will use definitions without too many details: • Organic matter - All the non-living material of biological origin in a soil system. These are found in various stages of decay.

• Humus - Stable portions of organic matter that are well “rotted” but not yet having gone through the humification process. • Humic substances (HS) - This is a broad heading that encompasses all fractions of the total material and can be defined as organic matter that is very stable; has been through the humification process; and is more resistant to microbial degradation. They are the end result of microbial degradation of once living organic material. Also often referred to as humate even though this is a bit of a misnomer.

• Humic acids - The fraction of HS only made soluble under alkaline (high pH) conditions and which is insoluble in dilute acid environments. They have a high molecular weight and are brown to black in color.

• Fulvic acids - The fraction of HS that is soluble in water under all pH conditions. They remain in solution after removal of humic acid by acidification. Fulvic acids are golden to yellow-orange in color.

• Humin - The fraction of humic substances that is not soluble in water at any pH value. Humins are black in color.

• Humate and fulvate - The salts of humic and fulvic acid respectively. When HS are extracted using chemical reagents this salt forms are created.

We can gain more insight from the following diagrams: Figure 1:

Humic Substances (pigmented polymers)

Fulvic acid Light yellow

2 000 45% 48% 1400

Yellow brown

Humic acid Dark brown

Grey black

increase in intensity of color increase in degree polymerization increase in molecular weight increase in carbon content decrease in oxygen content decrease in exchange acidity decrease in degree of solubility

nces

Humin Black

300 000?

62% 30% 500

Chemical properties of Humic substances. (Stevenson 1982)

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The Real Dirt on Humic Substances Figure 2:

OH

CH2OH

COOH

CH2 CH CH3 CH C CH2 COOH O CHOH CH2 COOH CH2 C

HOOC

HOOC COOH OH

O Model structure of fulvic acid. (by Buffle)

Figure one shows how molecular weight can be directly related to the color of an extraction or product. Molecular weight is correlated to the size of a molecule. The higher the molecular weight the larger the molecule’s structure is. While some may find this a tedious detail, it is an important fact because humic acids are actually too large to be absorbed into a plant’s roots or leaves, while fulvic acid is small enough to be easily assimilated. This is why humic acids are more closely associated with soil conditioning properties and feeding soil Figure 3:

COOH

HO

HO = O

COOH

HO

OH

(HC-OH)4

COOH R CH

O OH

microbes. This is in contrast to the smaller fulvic acid, which is better for increasing nutrient efficiency and uptake, lateral root growth, building plant immunity and also stimulating microbes. Figure two provides us a “flavor” of what a fulvic acid molecule is like. It is important to note that HS are analogous to snow flakes because they are mixtures of similar types of molecules but not all are alike. This is due to the fact that they were created from a variety of different plants and other once living things. Figure three is a proposed humic acid molecule.

These diagrams make it easier to envision the idea of molecular size and how it influences humic and fulvic’s functions in plant and soil systems.

Now that we have established that size dictates certain desirable properties and that there is a direct correlation between color and size, it would make sense to quantify both or either of these two fractions when labeling a commercially available product. In some instances a soil grower may want a higher humic content and be looking to improve soil characteristics or feed microbes; in other instances a hydroponic grower may prefer just the fulvic fraction for the biological benefits or as a foliar spray.

N

HC = O O

H O

O

CH CH2 CH N

O

O O

(sugar)

NH O R CH C = O (peptide)

O

O

H

OH

O

O O

COOH

COOH

OH

NH Model structure of humic acid. (Stevenson 1982)

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The Real Dirt on Humic Substances Colorimetric - In this test the humic acid is exposed to light and the measurement comes from a reading of how much light is absorbed by the sample. This value is compared to the value of a sample that is purchased from Sigma-Aldrich.

Advantages: Quick and easy making it possible to run many samples through the machine. This makes it cost effective for commercial use, which has lead it to be the most widely used test. A&L labs use a slight modification of this method, which is widely used by many manufacturers.

Disadvantages: Gives total humic and fulvic but does not give individual values for each (aka the total alkali extractables).

The Sigma-Aldrich sample (standard) used comes from a unique deposit in Germany that can be substantially different in composition as compared to some of the materials it is being used to test against. (This information was obtained through personal communication with Sigma-Aldrich). Currently there is work being done to improve this method.

Photo courtesy of Mesa Verde Resources. Humic sources vary widely. Here a layer of raw ore is protected by 20 feet of sandstone preventing the fulvic fraction from rinsing away.

Compounding these regulatory issues is the fact that there are several analytical methods being used and/or accepted by different states. These can produce results that vary widely. To better understand how this occurs we must review the methods of commonly used analytical tests.

** Please note the following three methods measure the target materials by drying and weighing the material for the respective fraction.

CDFA: (aka the California method as it was developed by their state department of agriculture). This method separates the humic and the fulvic. It then discards the fulvic solution and measure all the remaining material, which includes the inorganic ash in with the humic.

Advantages: This is the only method that the California and Oregon departments of agriculture will accept when registering a product.

Disadvantages: Only the humic is measured while the fulvic is thrown away, and no purification steps are performed to remove the ash giving way to inaccuracies in the measurement.

USGS/IHSS: (aka the classical method) This method is used and endorsed by both the United States Geological Service and the International Humic Substance Society. This method separates and measures both the humic and fulvic fractions while also going through rigorous purification steps to remove all insolubles, salt reagents and other materials that are not humic or fulvic.

Advantages: Quantifies both humic and fulvic with their individual values in their purified state. Highly accurate.

Disadvantages: More time consuming and costly test. (This is the method that produces per cent for fulvic in the typical range of 0.01-0.02 per cent) Verploegh and Brandvold (aka V&B method) Named for the duo of scientists who introduced the test, that is based on the classical method. This is the same as the classical test except that it goes through almost no purification steps.

Advantages: Measures both humic and fulvic. Quick and easy test to perform. Removes insoluble matter.

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"Knowing the pe rcentages of th e humic acid as well as fu lvic acid is an ad vantage, considering that structure and ph ysical characteristics determines thei r role."

Disadvantages: Does not go through purification of the chemical reagents used to separate the humic and fulvic acids.

This results in massive inaccuracies of the fulvic measurement because the majority of the reagents are present in solution with the fulvic fraction along with any amino acids, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. (This is the method that produces per cent for fulvic in the typical range of six to eight per cent).

No matter what method is used the fact remains that until a single test is made standard and used by all registration agencies the confusion will continue through the marketplace. It is clear that knowing the percentages of the humic acid as well as fulvic acid is an advantage, considering that structure and physical characteristics determines their role. The most useful analytical method is one that allows people to see the unadulterated percentages of both the humic and fulvic acid contents of a particular product. Please keep in mind that although having the concentration of these fractions is helpful, it is only one parameter that helps us understand/judge the quality of a raw material or product. Because these substances can be formed from many varying starting materials and environmental conditions the structures produced will also vary. This is not taken into account with just a number. Other factors such as how a deposit is formed over time and how the humic and fulvic are extracted will also have a large influence on material or product viability.

MY

References: California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). 1999.

Humic acid method.

Hayes, M. H. B. and C. L. Graham. 2000. Procedures for the isolation and fractionation ofhumic substances. In: E. A. Ghabbour and G. Davies (eds.), Humic Substances: VersatileComponents of Plants, Soils and Water. Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, UK. p106.

Mehlich, A. 1984. Photometric determination of humic matter in soils, a proposed method.Comm. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 15(12):14171422.

Stevenson, F. J. 1982. Humus Chemistry. Genesis, Composition, Reactions. John Wiley andSons, New York. 443 p.

Schnitzer, M. 1982. Organic matter characterization. pp. 581-594.

In (A. L. Page, R. H.Miller and D. R. Keeny, eds.) Methods of Soil analysis Part 2. Chemical and MicrobiologicalProperties. American Society of Agronomy No. 9 Part 2.

Figures used are from: http://karnet.up.wroc.pl/~weber/kwasy2.htm Weber, Jerzy http://www.ihss.gatech.edu/isolation.html http://wwwbrr.cr.usgs.gov/projects/SWC_Comp_Organic/usgs2.html

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Institute of Simplified Hydroponics Unveils New

Training Facility

by Peggy Bradley

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In March of 2009, construction began on a new training center for the Institute of Simplified Hydroponics in the USA. After over a decade of setting up training centers in developing countries, ISH is excited to be offering a training facility right at home.

The ISH board approved a US training center years ago, and a very small facility has been operating in the home office of El Dorado Springs, Missouri. But efforts were hampered due to the small area (only a half acre) and limited resources.

Thanks in part to additional donations to ISH through campaigns such as Hydro for Hunger, funds were available to lease a five acre facility and construct a training center.

A 20 by 60 foot commercial greenhouse was purchased and delivered to the new site in May, and a second small home size greenhouse was purchased in June. Site preparation began in mid-June and by August 1, the two greenhouses were set up and in full operation mode.

The smaller greenhouse is a demonstration of a food producing greenhouse for temperate climates. It is a combination of high tech and low tech hydroponics. The set-up of the greenhouse and the hydroponic systems was filmed for a future DVD set on setting up and operating a small hydroponic greenhouse.

The larger commercial greenhouse is set up to test products offered by the hydroponic industry. So, it partly serves as a research facility to prove hydroponics works. Any supplier of hydroponic products is invited to participate in the experiments at the large greenhouse. Nutrients, substrates, additives and systems will be tested and demonstrated in the greenhouse.

Institute of Simplified Hydroponics Unveils New USA Training Facility

Simplified Hydroponics The training center has the existing simplified hydroponic garden made of shipping pallets and recycled materials.

That garden is operated in the growing season from May until November. It is used to train people on simplified hydroponics for personal use or for setting up other demonstration gardens.

The simplified garden has been used to train people from countries such as India and South Africa. It has been helpful in setting up ISH India and

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our future ISH South Africa. Now the garden has a larger home and can be expanded to include organiponics and a fertigation demonstration.

Classroom Space The current classroom at the facility is a gazebo with seating for six people. A new classroom has been designed for at least 20 people. The estimated costs for the indoor classroom is about $5,000 and fundraising is underway now to build this structure. With the indoor

classroom and the greenhouses, classes can be held year round.

Future Use ISH plans to invite Ministers of Agriculture to send students to be trained in hydroponics, organiponics and fertigation at the training center. This campaign is planned to begin in May of 2010. Currently the training center is being used by a few students and volunteers helping to set up the gardens.

Anyone interested in volunteering and

being trained can get in touch with ISH for classes from now until November 1.

Next year ISH will be offering a three day training course in simplified hydroponics which should cost about $180. A few of these classes will be held this fall. Check the website for information.

the classes at the training center can be offered through existing educational channels in the US, further expanding the technology. The training center will be available to media for writers and publications throughout the world.

It is thanks to the help of Hydro for Hunger, its sponsors and personal donations, that the training center was possible. This campaign has produced more that $100,000 in financial resources and has made many advances with ISH possible.

MY

Future Classes Classes for trainers will be offered that take three weeks. A few internships will be offered for people who wish to set up ISH training centers in developing countries.

Classes for US Citizens One of the reasons for setting up a larger training facility in the US was the economic downturn that has an estimated one out of eight people in the US going hungry. This means that the technology of simplified hydroponics is also in need in the US. ISH still maintains its resources in film making, and DVD production. Perhaps MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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Mauro Farms Superior Organics:

Figure one: John Nicholas of Mauro Farms Organic Produce.

Certified Organic Tomatoes Grown Hydroponically

by Philip McIntosh

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On the plains of Southern Colorado, just east of the Rocky Mountains, lies one of the most productive agricultural regions in the United States. The landscape along State Highway 50, from Pueblo to the Kansas border, is dotted with hundreds of farms located to take advantage of the excellent soil and the warm, sunny climate along the Arkansas River basin. Despite the many advantages the region presents, times are tough for farmers here. Downward price pressure and shrinking profit margins have driven many operations to the brink of bankruptcy. One by one, the once proud farmers are selling their water rights and getting out of the business of growing. Conventional farms are shutting down up and down the Arkansas River region, because they just canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with imported produce.

"Conventional farms are shutting down up and down the Arkansas River region, because they just can’t compete with imported produce."

Last century, many Italian immigrants settled in the area and brought their considerable agricultural skills with them. The Mauros were one of these families. They have been working the Colorado land for more than 130 years, and they are not planning to get out of farming anytime soon. Although the Mauros still till the earth in the usual way, they have opted to take charge of their own agricultural and economic future by moving into hydroponics.

Mauro Farms and the Whole Foods Market John Nicholas (figure one) and the Mauros founded Mauro Farms Superior Organics in early 2008 in Vineland, Colorado. Through a combination of water-wise hydroponics technology, organic methods and savvy business planning, the small company profitably operates a greenhouse providing fresh, top-quality tomatoes for local consumption. The tomatoes are certified organic by Guaranteed Organic Certification Agency of Temecula, CA. John is a night manager at a local grocery store and has been in the retail food business for 30 years. During the day, he runs a hydroponic greenhouse with the assistance of five helpers, who are all members of the Mauro family.

One key to the success of the operation is the deal brokered with Whole Foods Market, Inc. (Austin, Texas). Whole Foods is no doubt the best-known organic food retailer in America.

In cooperation with the grocery chain, Nicholas and the Mauros entered into an agreement to provide their entire output exclusively to Whole Foods to supply their stores in Colorado Springs and Denver. This deal was made before the first tomato was grown, and Whole Foods was very specific in what they required, going so far as to name the exact cultivars they wanted grown. With this arrangement in place, the company set up shop in an inactive greenhouse belonging to a former local retailer. It had been five years since the greenhouse had been used for anything.

A non-organic hydroponic lettuce operation nearby was forced into closure when its customers found a supplier that undercut its prices by just a few cents a head. Mauro Farms Superior Organics is committed to the organic approach because they know they simply can’t compete with Canada and Mexico in the conventional produce market. So far, it’s working.

“It’s a great extension to family farming and the Mauro family is very open to expanding their business,” says Nicholas. Whole Foods has indicated they would like the company to supply all its Colorado stores within five years.

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Mauro Farms Superior Organics

Figure two: View down a tomato aisle in the greenhouse.

Figure 4. Romas on the vine.

Tomatoes from Seed to Fruit Tomatoes are started in rockwool. Aware of the problems inherent in disposing of rockwool, other starting substrates are under evaluation, and the small amount of rockwool currently used is broken up and added to the Mauro farms traditional fields as filler. The untreated seeds are provided by De Ruiter Seeds (Netherlands). De Ruiter is the only supplier of untreated seeds of the required varieties. Once the plants are established and verified healthy, they are transplanted into coco fiber bags for the duration of their lives in the greenhouse. The plants are fed nutrient solution via a drip system on a timed schedule, up to three times per day, depending on input from sensors that measure the amount of sunlight reaching the plants (figure two).

The nutrient solution deserves special mention, since it is a critical component in maintaining organic certification.

Nicholas sent tissue samples from his plants to Green World Path (Brookville, Florida) and the company formulated an organically certifiable hydroponic nutrient concentrate specifically for

his needs. Green World Path had previously provided nutrient solutions and amendments to golf courses and tree farms, but Mauro Farms Superior Organics was their first foray into supporting the commercial greenhouse produce market. As one might expect, the exact formulation is a trade secret.

Tomato varieties in production include Beefsteak and Roma clusters (figures three and four). San Marzano, Bellriccio and Patron are Roma varieties specified by Whole Foods. The cultivars vary from pure red, to yellow and orange, and include an unusual convoluted form that looks like an heirloom, except it is firmer than a typical heirloom variety (figure five).

The productivity of the initial planting has been truly impressive, with an average of 50 clusters harvested per plant.

Approximately 30 tons of tomatoes have been delivered out of the greenhouse, and the original series of plants is still in production after 10-12 months. Bee hives are brought in every two or three months to pollinate the flowers so that the fruit keeps on coming.

Figure three: A cluster of Beefsteaks.

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Figure five: An unusual Roma cultivar.

Mauro Farms Superior Organics The plants continued to produce through the cold Colorado winter. On average, there are more sunny days in Vineland during the winter months than there are in either Los Angeles or Miami.

There is plenty of light in the summer as well, and the growing environment is kept near 80°F when the external temperature is as high as 108°F, by drawing air into the greenhouse through a wall of cooling pads. Tomatoes are harvested several times a week and delivered to market within three days of picking. John thinks that many small companies don’t do a proper job of professionally marketing their product. Not wanting to make that mistake, the company had an attractive and distinctive logo designed to identify the produce and differentiate it from the competition. Sometimes John stands right in the store with his tomatoes, introducing them to Whole Foods shoppers, explaining how they are grown, offering samples and letting the customers know how much he cares about quality.

Expanding into Lettuce There was some space in the greenhouse that was already set up for lettuce, so Nicholas decided to add it to the mix. Although it is a relatively small

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Figure 6a: Hydroponic lettuce; Lollo Rosa (b) green bib.

part of the business, the entire lettuce crop also goes to Whole Foods. As with the tomatoes, Whole Foods told him what they wanted and that’s what they get. One requested variety is Lollo Rosa, a frilly cultivar that is produced along with the more common red and green bib varieties. Current lettuce production is 40-50 cases per week. New plants are started weekly and achieve market-size in about 28 days (figure six).

There is nothing unique about the lettuce production methods. A standard nutrient film technique for lettuce is employed with minimal equipment (the lettuce operation is not certified organic).

The lettuce is grown in foam rather than

“Imagine a hundred operations just like this one,” Nicholas muses, “built up and down the interstate highways, providing the freshest produce straight to market, literally within hours of being harvested. rockwool (figure seven). A dosatronic is used to control the pH and conductivity of the nutrient solution. Shade cloth keeps the temperature in that part of the greenhouse a little lower that that of the tomato section.

Looking Toward the Future Going organically and hydroponically isn’t easy, and Nicholas will attest to that. The well water used to feed the system is hard and clogs the drip lines.

A reverse osmosis treatment system is planned for the near future. The current crop of tomato plants is showing its age, and has been under increasing attack from powdery mildew. A copper/baking soda solution (allowed under organic regulations) is used to fight off the mildew with only partial success. When one pest insect shows up, enemy insects are released in the greenhouse to combat them. “I’m in a war out there every day,” Nicholas says, “but so far, I’m winning.”

The Mauro Farms Superior Organics venture into hydroponics may be a relatively modest start, but the success that has been achieved so far is leading to bigger and better things. The reliable relationship that has been built with

Figure 6b: Hydroponic lettuce; green bib.

Whole Foods has led to plans for an additional three greenhouses so that the supply of tomatoes can be kept up year round without a break. Nicholas hopes to have the new structures built by mid 2010.

The greenhouses will each be about the same size as the current one, but with improved materials and the latest in environmental controls. That will remedy one upcoming problem - once the current set of plants is removed, the company won’t have any tomatoes to sell for several months until a new set is established.

“Imagine a hundred operations just like this one,” Nicholas muses, “built up and down the interstate highways, providing the freshest produce straight to market, literally within hours of being harvested. How much better will that product be compared to goods shipped by truck all the way from Zacatecas or some place? Think of all the diesel fuel that could be saved and how much less pollution will result by cutting out that long transportation haul.” Sounds like it could be a start in a new direction, leading to a more environmentally responsible and healthy food supply.

MY

Figure 7. Lettuce plants started in Oasis foam.

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HOW IT'S MADE

Sun System Reflector The material used inside the reflectors created by Sunlight Supply uses a 95 per cent reflective aluminum that is imported from Germany. Beyond reflectivity, the diffusion properties and uniformity of German aluminum is far superior to the Chinese look-alike materials.

Our premium quality and performing reflectors have helped us build the Sun System brand to what it is today.

1. 3-D C.A.D. Design Sunlight Supply has an experienced staff of professionals that have extensive knowledge of sheet metal design and production. Our lead design engineer used to design aircraft components. We have an expert in C.A.D. design, machine capability and tooling requirements, which makes for prompt product design and development. All of our reflectors are designed using sophisticated C.A.D. software called Solid Edge. This allows us to design products in 3-D so we can see products on the computer screen from all sides, inside and out. It also allows us to â&#x20AC;&#x153;layerâ&#x20AC;? the parts so we can see how all of the components fit together. We can even see how a reflector will perform on the computer, before we even make a prototype.

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2. Punching with CNC Punch Presses “Punching” is the process of transforming a flat four foot by eight inch sheet of aluminum or steel into cut-out parts in various shapes and sizes. Our state-of-the-art facility features five Trumpf brand (German-made) CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) punch presses with a robotic load/ unload system for lights-out operation. Each punch press operates on a very high speed and is extremely accurate.

3. Part Bending (braking/forming) This is the process of taking a flat aluminum or steel part and bending it into a finished shape. Part bending is accomplished by six CNC press brakes.These precision brakes are capable of holding bend tolerances of less than 3/10 of one degree. We can easily bend a part that is a ½ inch wide to four feet wide.

4. Riveting and Pemming Automatic feed riveting machines securely attach metal parts together. The Auto-Sert machine inserts Pem Bolts and Pem Nuts on various fixtures.

5. Powder Coating Powder coating is a process to bake a polyester powder onto a metal part. At this point in the fabrication life-cycle, metal parts are cleaned, degreased, etched and rinsed prior to powder coating. Our dirty wash water is sent to a 1600-gallon holding tank and then pumped to an evaporator to be discharged as steam, keeping our water from entering local sewer and storm drain systems. An automatic spray booth powder coats white parts without an operator. All overspray is filtered, cleaned and re-shot. A second powder coat spray to waste booth enables us to spray a wide variety of colors and textures. A JBI 36-burner infrared oven “gels” the powder prior to entering the main oven. Our GAT convection oven guarantees precise temperature tolerances for smooth and even curing. A 90 foot long cool down conveyor allows parts to drop in temperature prior to handling.

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HOW IT'S MADE 6. Assembly At this stage the reflector housing, lamp cord, socket, glass and hinged door (parts vary by reflector) are all assembled together. One â&#x20AC;&#x153;builderâ&#x20AC;? is responsible for completing this process from start to finish. Our eight-station assembly area uses pneumatic drivers, riveters and screw guns to assist our staff in efficient and accurate product assembly.

7. Testing All of our manufactured products go through time, endurance and strength testing to meet our stringent standards.

Because each and every product is tested at least once before it is packaged, we are 100 per cent confident that they work before being sent to one of our authorized retail stores.

8. Packaging An automatically advancing conveyor line moves assembled products from the assembly stations to the packaging area. The packaging/quality control area serves as the final product inspection point prior to the items being packaged. After being boxed, the products are palletized and shipped to our distribution centers. From our six nation-wide distribution centers, we ship products daily to more than 500 authorized retail stores.

MY If you would like to have your product featured in "How it's Made," please contact editor@maximumyield.com or give us a call at 250 729 2677

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PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

Continued from page 38

Nature’s Solution Mycorrhizae

Bio-Gold New from Green Planet Wholesale

Nature’s Solution Mycorrhizae is a very fine, watersoluble powder. There are five endomycorrhizae: Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, G. aggregatum, G. etunicatum and also four ectomycorrhizae: Rhizopogon villosullus, R. luteolus, R. amylopogon, R. fulvigleba and Psolithus tinctorius. Mycorrhizae must come into contact with a root surface within 48 hours of putting the powder into the soil, soilless media or water or you have wasted your money.

If you have plants already in the ground or soilless media then you can dig holes at an angle through the roots, fill the holes with pea gravel and put the mycorrhizae in with Nature’s Solution Compost Tea and Ancient Humate.

If you are transplanting, do not use with any other rooting mixtures or gels; simply mix the mycorrhizae with the compost tea and dip the roots just before transplanting or sprinkle some into the planting hole. Mycorrhizae is available now from your local indoor gardening retailer.

Bio-Gold is a storehouse of rhizospheric micro-organisms that colonize the root zone creating an unparalleled environment for healthy plant growth.

Soil Applications: Mix 0.6 grams per one gallon of dechlorinated water to make a root drench. For rapid inoculation, add 1.2 grams per gallon. Bio-Gold may be used every two to four weeks.

Hydroponic Applications: Mix 0.6 grams per one gallon of dechlorinated water in reservoir and run through system.

Bio-Gold can be used weekly with nutrient change.

Using more Bio-Gold than what is recommended may actually reduce its effectiveness. Do not use hydrogen peroxide with Bio-Gold.

Available in 130 grams, 250 grams and 500 grams.

For more information on Bio-Gold visit your nearest hydroponics retailer.

SteadyGRO Introduces New Sheet Media SteadyGRO of Kokomo, Indiana has introduced a new line of sheet media for the indoor grower market.

SteadyGRO soilless media was developed specifically for the grower industry. The media is sterile and inert, and its composition allows for more oxygen to seedlings and roots for faster starts and ultimately healthier plants.

SteadyGRO’s unique structure eliminates algae growth along the surface of the media.

SteadyGRO sheet media comes in two types; SteadyGRO which is a low water retention media, and SteadyGRO H+, a high water retention media.

SteadyGRO sheet media comes in packs of two and 20, and also is available in 276, 162, 104 and 50 cell formats.

SteadyGRO sheet media packaging has been engineered for easy and damage-free removal of the individual sheets.

For more information on SteadyGRO sheets and the entire SteadyGro line, go to an indoor gardening retail store.

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Root Builder New from Green Planet Wholesale

Introducing Finisher from Green Planet Wholesale

For use as a microbial soil amendment, improving conversion of organic and inorganic fertilizers into plantavailable forms and increasing microbial bio-mass. Also aids in the building of soil structure, retention of soil water and treatment of soil salinity problems.

Diluted product may be applied directly to the soil as a pre-plant or post-plant treatment. Soil applications should be made on moistened soil and watered in when possible. Excellent as a starter or a co-mix for compost teas. Product should not be used in re-circulating hydroponic systems due to the fact of exclusive growth in your reservoir.

• bigger roots equals bigger fruits • don’t panic, it’s organic (OMRI listed) • extremely active beneficial organisms • five year shelf life • not to be used with hydrogen peroxide Available in one quart, one gallon, 2.2 gallons and five gallons.

For more information on Root Builder visit your local grow shop.

Finisher is a must have for use in the last three weeks of the flowering stage. Precisely designed for the heaviest harvest, Finisher is a unique blend of organic enzyme activators, vitamins, essential amino acids and carbohydrates. The ingredients combined will unleash the full flowering potential of your favorite plants or herbs.

Finisher optimizes harvest weight, promotes vigorous growth, enhances flavor and taste and increases the health of your flowering plants.

Totally unique, no other product compares to this.

Designed to enlarge flowers three weeks prior to harvest.

Highly recommended for use with TopLoad.

Available in one quart, one gallon, 2.2 gallons and five gallons.

For more information on Finisher visit your local hydroponics shop.

SunPulse Start Bulbs

Sun Pulse Start Metal Halide Grow lamps were created by the GAS Technologies group of photo-biologists, plant scientists, mechanical and electrical engineers, gas chemists and HID lamp designers. They are designed with true solar symmetry for true photochemical reactions in living organisms, greater molecular efficiency in operations and better color rendering. Sun Pulse lamps are made with the highest quality and quality control.

• available in Kelvin ratings of 3k, 4k, 6.4k and 10k • designed to work with certified electronic and digital electronic ballasts • even lamp life approx (20,000 hours) with little color shift or loss of FT-CD output • Sun Pulse lamps are also available for 600 watt magnetic ballasts in the various colors Note: If you are operating electronic ballasts – this lamp is essential. Look for SunPulse Start Bulbs at an authorized retailer near you.

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PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

Grodan Introduces the Uni-Slab Introducing the HOMEboxÂŽ Mini The HOMEbox Mini is the little sister of our large HOMEboxes, originally designed as a show box for retail stores. Despite its small size of only 30 by 30 by 60 centimeters, it matches its big sisters with regards to finish and the materials used.

The HOMEbox Mini allows retailers to demonstrate the high quality materials and design principles of our HOMEboxes even in the smallest of showrooms. Both the inner material of our white Classic series and the inner material of our Classic Silver series are used in the Mini HOMEbox. And naturally the poles and connectors are the same as for its big sisters.

Although our baby has only been shown to our wholesale customers so far with a model exhibited at CannaTrade 2009, demand from interested growers is high.

Visit your indoor gardening retailer to learn more.

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The Uni-Slab combines all of the benefits of our traditional slabs with the versatility of a block. With a size of 9.5 inches long by eight inches wide by four inches high, the Uni-Slab has great stability for any size plant. The Uni-Slab is completely wrapped thus keeping all the roots of your plant safely contained within the slab, protected from light and outside contaminants. Yet itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small enough to be maneuverable, allowing your plants to be spaced as the plant canopy requires. Due to its height, the Uni-Slab is suitable for both top drip and flood systems.

The Uni-Slab is now available at hydroponic retail shops.

Premium Plant Light Plantmax Looking for a premium light for your plants? Look no further! Plantmax offers a complete line of grow lamps.

Both the metal halide and high pressure sodium grow lamps provide high lumen output and spectrum that help plants grow in vegetative stages and brings you the best yields in flowering and fruiting.

The Plantmax conversion series of lamps allow you to use the same fixture/ballast for different stages of plant growth, from vegetative to the flowering stages.

The Dual Arc grow lamp technology brings full spectrum to you. It offers you the privilege to grow plants from vegetative stages to flowering stages and maximum yields.

Plantmax T5 Fluorescent Lamps bring you high lumen output, and they are available in both cool (6500k) and warm (3000k) colors. With extreme high efficiency and long life, not only do you expect great results for plant growth, but energy savings as well.

Plantmax carries quality products with reasonable prices. Maximize the yields.

Maximize the results.

Available now at your local retail store.

Humboldt Electronics Introduces New Controller Units Humboldt Electronics controllers are made specifically for hydroponics and indoor gardening. The following are now available: Digital Temperature Monitor Controller • works with main ventilation fan • cooling and heating options • helps prevent fungus-type diseases • helps control humidity • designed with many applications for temperature control Digital Moisture Monitor Controller • increases yields • automatic watering • sensor monitored • one per cent accuracy from zero to 81 per cent reading • adjusts moisture level for your application • promotes healthy vigorous growth • ten separate channels • controls a small garden or a greenhouse

Nature’s Solution Compost Tea Nature’s Solution Compost Tea is filled with beneficial aerobic microbes and is now available after four years of extensive research.

Our organically approved compost tea comes in a “breathable” patent-pending package that keeps these organisms alive and active in an oxygen-rich environment with a one year shelf life. There is a wide range of species and diversity of micro-organisms in our compost tea - beneficial bacteria, fungi, protozoa and beneficial nematodes. These organisms are necessary to transform all organic nutrients into a plant available form and provide plant protection on leaf surfaces and out compete pathogens in the soil. Other manufacturers have isolated only a few species which are cultured and put in a spore form and are not active, but asleep. No chemicals are added. The pH is not lowered. The tea needs no refrigeration. It is not a put-to-sleep tea. Available now from hydroponics retailers.

Digital Light Mover Controller • increase yields • promotes even growth across the garden area • use garden lights more efficiently • create a natural arching photo period • save electricity and wear on light mover Ask your local retailer about the new line of controller systems from Humboldt Electronics.

Dutch Nutrient Formula two-part Grow and Bloom DNF is an easy to use, convenient two-part formula for both grow and bloom stages which maximizes nutrient uptake. Our method combined with superior ingredients eliminates binding, solidification and waste of mineral elements, which occurs in ordinary onepart plant food. All elements in DNF are utilized making it the most economical nutrition for your plants.

DNF has proven results with testimonials from trusted professionals in the industry. It contains no additives or dyes and is heavily concentrated for unsurpassed value.

Now available at your local indoor gardening retail store.

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PRODUCT spotlight

ask for these exciting new products at your favorite indoor gardening store.

Pro-Cut from Hydrotek All Pro-Cut leaf trimmers are effective, economical and very quiet! They are designed to trim leafy plants and separate excess leaves and cut twigs from a variety of plants and flowers. All Pro-Cut trimmers work brilliantly to trim leafy plants and small bushes such as oregano, basil, rosemary, mint, lavender, coriander, parsley and much more. Perfect for the preparation of essential oils, aromatherapy and mixed flowers for potpourri.

• high productivity; this is a work-horse • safe, quiet and easy to use • tempered steel blade • new “fill and spill” leaf recovery To learn more visit your local hydroponics retailer.

Introducing Baseline Soluble Humus Concentrate from Vital Landscaping This granular and liquid humus promotes vigorous plant and flower growth and empowers strong root systems. Baseline liquid and granular humus concentrates form a strong foundation for any biologically-correct soil management application.

This ancient humus has resulted from millions of years of aerobic decomposition that began with a prehistoric meteorite collision. The resulting humus is so thoroughly decomposed it is soluble in water! Baseline is packed full of a wide diversity of beneficial fungi, protozoa and bacteria. It is also a plentiful source of humic, fulvic and other organic acids essential for healthy plant and microbial growth.

To learn more about Baseline contact your indoor gardening retail store.

Introducing the Gardener Stirwand from Progress Earth The Stirwand is a tool of many faculties, but is new to the hydroponic world. It has met the federal standard to enhance hydration, increase blood oxygen and reduce cellular toxicity. It is also used in non-invasive acupuncture and for chakra and meditative work. It’s even been known to help people sleep and swim faster. Does this sound too good to be true? Try it today; there’s a 45 day money back guarantee.

There are eight varieties of the Stirwands for different applications, but the Gardener Stirwand can be used for enhancing the vitality of house and garden plants, ideal for increasing the available oxygen for fish and plant life in your home aquarium and outdoor ponds, fresh or salt water. One per tank or one per 500 gallons in a pond will keep it crystal clear, barring any extreme imbalance. The Gardener Stirwand is also ideal for enhancing the vitality of fresh fruits and vegetables. Wash with Gardener stirred water for at least 30 seconds, and/or store with the produce. Contact your local hydroponics retailer today to learn more.

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C.A.P. Xtreme Reflective Films C.A.P. is proud to introduce their new Xtreme Reflective Films, an inexpensive yet superior alternative to the current demand of reflective films. C.A.P. Xtreme Reflective Films provide optimum light return for your plants and offer Xtreme light blocking capabilities. Available in diamond foil/white, super mylar/white and the exclusive textured mylar/blackout. C.A.P. Xtreme Reflective Films are the only choice for smart growers.

For more information, contact your local retailer.

SteadyGRO Launches Eco-Friendly Slabs and Blocks

LumiGrow, Inc. Introduces LumiGrow ES™

LumiGrow, Inc. has announced the release of the LumiGrow ES™, a first-of-its-kind enhanced spectrum horticultural lighting solution proven to produce significant energy savings and abundant, healthy crops.

The LumiGrow ES is encased in hardware designed to meet the rigors of commercial greenhouse applications. Its LED emitters cast a precise spectral range within 400 to 700 nanometers, and features true deep red LEDs that match peak photosynthesis along with double the PAR value of any previous solid-state horticultural light. Independently adjustable red and blue knobs enable growers to fine-tune their lighting.

On top of the electrical savings of 50 to 60 per cent, public utility companies throughout the U.S. now offer cash rebates and subsidies for the LumiGrow ES. LumiGrow LED lights do not contain hazardous mercury or halogen gases. Further, because the LumiGrow ES emits a controlled and focused spectrum rather than a broad scattershot of light, the solution dramatically reduces the light pollution caused by the use of HID lamps during nighttime hours.

For more information contact your local indoor gardening retailer.

SteadyGRO of Kokomo, Indiana has launched an ecofriendly line of soilless media slabs and blocks.

SteadyGRO soilless media is available in three inch by six inch by 36 slabs encased in a reusable and recyclable tray. The tray is pre punched with three – four inch by four inch squares to accommodate SteadyGRO blocks. The trays are white on the outside and black inside to provide ideal growing conditions. The trays can be reused and refilled with SteadyGRO slab media. The tray is also marked appropriately information for ease of recycling.

SteadyGRO blocks are wrapped with a bio wrap made from recycled material. The wraps may be composted, and they easily biodegrade.

The SteadyGRO soilless media is also designed for easy disposal. It may be incinerated without releasing harmful toxins or it may be ground or crushed to less than 11 per cent of its original volume.

Go to an indoor gardening retail store to learn more about the entire line of SteadyGRO products.

Grodan Introduces GrowChunks™ Grodan’s GrowChunks™ are super light and versatile.

GrowChunks are a larger version (¾ square inches) of the popular GrowCubes™. They are great for direct planting or for use as a filling around blocks when in containers. They can be easily mixed with other media for increased aeration and added moisture holding capabilities. Available in a two cubic foot bag. Visit a hydroponics retailer to learn more.

MY You can find all of our products online at www.maximumyield.com. Each month your favorite new product profiles will be featured on our website. Get the latest information on what will make your garden grow.

Do you want to be included in the product spotlight?

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

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

129

AVANT-GARDENING Natural Homemade Beauty Recipes Nature is the newest trend in skin and hair care. For years, we’ve been putting toxic chemicals into our bodies that build up and make us feel tired and sick, regardless of whether we eat them or if they seep though our pores. And people are finally catching on that natural is better.

Most stores now have a line of “natural” beauty products.

Unfortunately, they often come with a big price tag attached.

Often times many of these products are not actually “natural” so it does pay to do your homework to ensure you are getting what you pay for.

Fortunately actually making beauty products yourself isn’t too difficult. So if you want beauty products that you know are natural and are also inexpensive, just make them yourself. Here are five quick and easy recipes you can make yourself.

Face Mask Eating good food helps give you the right nutrients you need to look good.You can get more of these vitamins and minerals by putting the good stuff right on the skin.

Combining a mashed carrot, mashed avocado and a beaten egg with a few tablespoons of honey creates a great face mask that provides vitamins, and improves the tone and texture of your skin. Just stir well, apply, let sit for about 15 minutes and then wash off with cool water.

After you’ve washed and nourished your skin, you can use grated cucumber or diluted lemon juice as a toner to help tighten your skin, close up your pores and keep your skin looking great.

Hair Conditioner

Many people pay a lot of money for a conditioner that makes their hair look and feel good. Here’s a great natural recipe to save you money and help your hair.

Just mix an egg yolk with a tablespoon of castor oil and apply to hair. Let sit for about 10 minutes and rinse out.You can use this every so often as a conditioning treatment for healthy, shiny hair. If you like being experimental, you can try mixing other kitchen items, herbs and natural items with eggs for healthy, shiny hair.

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Hand and Foot Cream

A quick face mask will help make you look great in not a lot of time, but hands and feet require extra care.

Use ½ cup of olive oil mixed with natural sea salt and massage into your hands and feet. Leave a few minutes to soak and then rinse off with warm water.

When it comes to natural beauty products, these recipes are just the start.You can find hundreds of different combinations in natural beauty books, magazines and on the Internet. Or you can go to your kitchen cabinet and make your own special creations.

MY

DO YOU

know?

1

2

3 4 5

Fulvic acid is not the same as humic as some believe. It is actually a fraction of humic substances that is soluble in water under all pH conditions. They remain in solution after the removal of humic acid by acidification.

When determining the fan size needed for your grow space/room, you will need to account for not only room size, but also configuration of ducting, inlet/outlet filters, the maximum temperature of incoming air and the total wattage of all electrical devices.

An air filtration system will be much more effective if optimal humidity levels are maintained; for example 50 to 60 per cent RH (relative humidity).

Climate controllers for indoor gardens are automatic and work with control loops. They are composed of detection mechanisms, a regulator and an activator.

An introduction of a base nutrient formula initially should be acquired for major macro-nutritional delivery. This provides a foundation of the plant food pyramid, delivering the essentials the garden uses the most.

6

7

8 9

The friendly guys of the microbial world are known as beneficial micro-organisms and the not-sofriendly group is called pathogens, which are harmful and capable of producing disease, decay and pollution.

In the 1990s, it was found that some organisms such as Cryptosporidium were resistant to chlorine and the resulting health issues from this meant that drinking water regulations were changed and alternative disinfection methods began to be used.

It may not be necessary to control every weed in an outdoor garden, as some are helpful and natural.

Currently there is no standardized analytical method for quantification of humic substances and accepted labeling practices often vary greatly from state to state.

10One study has reported that the critical chloramines

amount at which lettuce plant growth was significantly inhibited was 1.18 mg Cl/g of root fresh weight.

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

ALABAMA Alabama Organics 3348 Bethel Road, Valley Head, AL 35989 256-635-0802

ALASKA Brown’s Electrical Supply 365 Industrial Way, Anchorage, AK 99501 907-272-2259 Far North Garden Supply 300 Centaur Street, Wasilla, AK 99654 907-376-7586 Far North Garden Supply 2834 Boniface Parkway Anchorage, AK 99504 907-333-3141 Holmtown Nursery Inc. 1301 - 30th Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-8733

ARIZONA ACI Hydroponics 1325 South Park Lane, Tempe, AZ 85282 800-633-2137 Homegrown Hydroponics 601 East Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 480-377-9096 Homegrown Hydroponics 1702 East Prince Road, Tucson, AZ 85719 520-323-1212 Natural Pools & Gardens 2143 North Country Suite C, Tucson, AZ 85716 520-323-2627 Sea of Green Hydroponics 815 W. University Drive, Suite 110, Tempe, AZ 85281 800-266-4136 Sea of Green West 2340 W. Bell Road, Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 85023 602-504-8842 Sea of Green Hydroponics 402 North 4th Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85705 520-622-6344

ARKANSAS Fermentables 3915 Crutcher Street, N. Little Rock, AR 72118 501-758-6261 Mickey’s Mercantile 1303 Highway 65 South, Clinton, AR 72031 501-412-0214 Old Soul Organics and More 1771 Crossover Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-444-6955

CALIFORNIA 101 Hydroponics 2550 Vineyard Avenue, #200 Oxnard, CA 93030 805-988-6537 A Plant Hydroponics & Organics 1604 Babcock Street, Costa Mesa, CA 95521 949-642-7776 A Fertile World (Eureka) 65th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-0200

136

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

A Fertile World (Fortuna) 610 7th Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-0700 Abundant Hydroponics LLC 1611 Shop Street, #1-A, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-54 HYDRO Advanced Garden Supply 2660 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Building C, Unit 9, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-4769 Advanced Garden Supply 3113 Alhambra Drive, Unit F, Cameron Park, CA 95682, 530-676-2100 Advanced Hydroponics 17808 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country, CA 91351 661-299-1603 AG Natural 403 Idaho Maryland Road, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-274 0990 Alameda County Hydroponics 20910 Redwood Road, Suite C, Castro Valley, CA 94546 All Seasons Hydroponics 17614 Chatsworth Street, Granada Hills, CA 91344 818-368-4388 Alternative Hydro 3870 East, Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107 888-50-HYDRO Always Sunny Hydroponics 708 W. Swain Road Stockton, CA 95207 209-473-9827 American Hydroponics 286 South G Street, Arcata, CA 95521 800-458-6543 Anthony’s Garden & Lighting Supply 30 Ridge Road, Suites 8 & 9 Sutter Creek, CA 95685 209-267-5416 Anything Grows 10607 W. River Street, Building 3 Suite C, Truckee, CA 96161 530-582-0479 Atwater Hydroponics 3350 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039 323-663-8881 Auburn Organic 4035 Grass Valley Highway, Auburn, CA 95602 530-823-8900 B & S Gardening Supplies 590 Commerce Court, Manteca, CA 95336 209-239-8648 Bakersfield Hydroponics 2408 Brundage Lane, Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-323-7333 Bare Roots Hydroponics 1615 East Cypress, #5 Redding, CA 96002 530-244-2215 Beginning Hydroponics PO Box 1232, Corona, CA 92787 951-735-4446 Berkeley Indoor Garden 844 University Avenue Berkeley, CA 94710 510-549-2918

Berkeley’s Secret Garden 921 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94710 510-486-0117 Best Coast Growers 4417 Glacier Avenue Suite C, San Diego, CA 92120 800-827-1876 Best Yield Garden Supply 3503 West Temple Avenue, Unit A, Pomona, CA 91768 909-839-0505 Better Grow Hydro Pasadena 1271 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasedena, CA 91106 626 737 6612 Better Grow Hydro Los Angeles 5554 Bandini Boulevard, Bell, CA 91106 323-510-2700; 877 640 GROW Brentwood Hydroponics & Organics 560 Valdry Ct #85 Brentwood, CA 94513 925-634-6704 BWGS West 2247 North Plaza Drive Visalia, CA 93291 888-316-1306 California Hydro Garden 1043 South Glendora Avenue, Suite A West Covina, CA 91790 626-813-0868 California Hydroponics 310 Coral Street, Suite C Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-423-4769 Caliponics Inc. 2030 Viborg Road, Unit 110 Solvang, CA 93463 877-PONICS9 Central Coast Hydrogarden 1951 Santa Barbara Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-544-GROW Citrus Heights Hydrogarden 8043 Greenback Lane Citrus Heights, CA 95610 916-728-4769 City Farmer’s Nursery 4832 Home Avenue, San Diego, CA 92105 619-284-6358 Clover Hydroponics & Garden Supply 2626 South Main Street, Lakeport, CA 95453 707-263-4000 CNG Garden Supplies 22 Ricknbacker Circle, Livermore, CA 94551 209-836-5550 Coca’s Central Valley Hydroponics 116 West Orangeburg Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350 209-567-0590 Concord Indoor Garden 2771 Clayton Road, Concord, CA 94519 925-671-2520 Conejo Hydroponics 3481 Old Conejo Road #106 Newbury Park, CA 91320 805-480-9596 Conrad Hydroponics Inc. 14915 Unit E, Olympic Drive, Clearlake, CA 95422 707-994 3264

Constantly Growing 6200 Enterprise Drive, Suite A Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-642-9710

Foothill Hydroponics 10705 Burbank Boulevard, N. Hollywood, CA 91601 818-760-0688

Green Coast Hydroponics 3560 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 805-898-9922

Constantly Growing 4343 Hazel Avenue, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916-962-0043

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

Green Coast Hydroponics 2405 Mira Mar Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-627-5636

Constantly Growing - Davis 123 D Street Davis, CA 95616 530-756-4774

Four Seasons Garden Center 1737 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612 510-832-2545

Green Coast Hydroponics 496 Meats Avenue Orange, CA 92865 714-974-4769

D&S Garden Supplies 17-130 Doolittle Drive San Leandro, CA 94577 510-430-8589

Full Sun Supply 3535 Industrial Drive, Unit B-3 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 877-FULL-SUN

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

Dazeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supply 3082 Redwood Drive, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-3002

Funny Farms Hydroponics 963 Transport Way, #12 Petaluma, CA 94954 707-775-3111

Greenfire Sacramento 3230 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95821 916-485-8023

Direct Hydroponics Wholesale 14228 Alberts Way, Chino, CA 91710 909-606-5885

G & G Organics and Hydroponics 901 W. Victoria Street Unit D, Compton, CA 90220 310-632-0122

Green Logic Garden Supply 860 Piner Road, #38, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 707-843-3156

Dirt Cheap Hydroponics 17975 H Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-964-4211

Garden Connection, The 2145 Park Avenue, Unit 2 Chico, CA 95928 530-342-7762

Greenmile Hydroponic Garden Supply 1480 South E. Street, Suite D, San Bernardino, CA 92408 909-885-5919

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

Garden Depot, The 203 Commerce Street, Suite 101 Lodi, CA 95240 209-339-9950

Green Thumb Hydroponics 35 Quinta Court, Suite B, Sacramento, CA 95823 916-689-6464

Eel River Hydroponics & Soil Supply 164 Dinsmore Drive, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-726-0395

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

Green Thumb Lighting & Garden 1647 W. Sepulveda Boulevard, Unit 5, Torrance, CA 90501 888-326-GROW

El Centro Hydro & Brew Supply Inc. 591 main Street, Suite N-2 El Centro, CA 92243 760-235-4985

Garden Shed, The 1136 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 650-508-8600

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

Elite Horticulture Supply 22330 Sherman Way, C13, Canoga Park, CA 91303 818-347-5172

Garden Spout, The 44800 Highway 101, Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-7260

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

Emerald Garden 8249 Archibald Avenue, Ranch Cucamanga, CA 91730 909-466-3796

Garden Spout, The 630 S. Main Street, Willits, CA 95490 707-456-0196

Grodan Inc. 5152 Commerce Avenue Moorpark, CA 93021 541-646-8245

Emerald Garden 13325 South Highway 101, Hopland, CA 95482 707-744-8300

Garden Warehouse 6355 Scarlet Court, #2, Dublin, CA 94568 925-556-3319

Grow A Lot Hydroponics, San Diego 1591 N. Cuyamaca Street, El Cajon, CA 92020 619-749-6777

Emerald Garden 307 East Perkins Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-463-2510

Go Big Hydroponics 4501 Van Nuys Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 818-789-3341

Growers Choice Hydroponics 1100 Carver Road, Modesto, CA 95350 209-522-2727

Evergreen Hydroponics 923 N. Central Avenue, Suite B, Upland, CA 91786 909-946-7100

Golden Gecko Garden Center, The 4665 Marshall Road, Garden Valley, CA 95633 530-333-2394

Growers Choice Hydroponics 16754 East 14th Street, San Leandro, CA 94578 510-278-6200

Everything Green Hydroponics 915 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533 707-432-0774

Golden Harvest Hydroponics & Garden Supply 8626 Lower Sacramento Road #48, Stockton, CA 95210 209-951-3550

Grow It Yourself Gardens 401 Sunset Drive, Suite L, Antioch, CA 94509 925-755-GROW

Everything Green 448 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 707-647-0774

Gottagrow Garden Supply 769 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707-544-7782

Grow King Hydroponics 932 South San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015 213-689-8982

Extreme Hydroponics 11479 San Fernando Road C, San Fernando, CA 91340 818-898-0915

Grass Roots Hydroponics 31877 Corydon, Suite 150 Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 951-245-2390

Grow Light Express 5318 East Second Street suite 164, Long Beach, CA 90803 888-318-GROW

EZ Green Hydroponics 7017 Reseda Boulevard, Reseda, CA 91335 818-776-9076

Grass Valley Hydrogarden 12506 Loma Rica Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945 530-477-2996

Grow Your Own 3401 Traval Street, San Francisco, CA 94116 415-731-2115

Farm Hydroponics, The 1950 Lake Tahoe Boulevard #3, S. Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 530-541-3276

Green Acres Hydroponics 1215 Striker Avenue, Suite 180, Sacramento, CA 95834 916-419-4394

Grunder Family Organics & Hydroponics 12321 Magnolia Avenue, Suite C, Riverside, CA 92503 877-468-7974

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

137

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

H20 Gardening 355 West 7th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731 310-514-1416 Hahn’s Lighting 260 E. VA Suite 1, San Jose, CA 95112 408-295-1755 Harvest Hydroponics 6650 Merchandise Way Suite B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 530-622-5190 High Desert Hydroponics 13631 Pawnee Road, #7 Apple Valley, CA 92308 760-247-2090 Hi-Tech Gardening 5327 Jacuzzi Street, #282, Richmond, CA 94804 510-524-4710 Hollywood Hydroponics and Organics 5109 1/2 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027-6105 323-662-1908 Hooked Up Hydroponics 339 S. Golden State Boulevard, Turlock, CA 95380 209-668-1300 House of Hydro 224 Weller Street, #B, Petaluma, CA 94952 707-762-4769 Humboldt Electronics 2547 California Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-9408 Humboldt Hydroponics 1302 Union Street, Eureka, CA 95501 707-443-4304 Humboldt Hydroponics 2174 Pine Street, Redding, CA 96001 530-241-7454 Humboldt Nutrients 65th Street, Eureka, CA 95501 888-420-7770 Hydroasis 2643 S. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90232 888-355-4769 Hydrobrew 1319 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-966-1885; 877-966-GROW Hydro Depot 5665 Redwood Drive, #B, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-584-2384 Hydrogarden Delight 13762 Doolittle Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577 510-903-1808 Hydrogarden Mendocino County 1240 North Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 707-962-9252 Hydro King 105 Hartnell Avenue, Suite C and D, Redding, CA 96002 888-822-8941 Hydro King 2540 South Whitman Place, Chico, CA 959282 530-893-GROW (4769)

138

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Hydro-Logic Purification Systems 2825 Mattison Lane, Suite 103, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 888 H2O LOGIC HydroPacific - Hydroponics & Garden Supplies 351 C Hastings Av., Ukiah, CA 95482 707-467-0400 Hydroponic Connection, The 316 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94117 415-864-9376 Hydroponic Connection Warehouse, The 1995 Evans Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94124 415-824-9376 Hydroponics 4 Less 41669 Winchester Avenue, Temecula, CA 92590 800-A1-HYDRO Hydroponics Plus 2250 Commerce Avenue, Suite C Concord, CA 94520 925-691-7615 HydroponicsUnlimited.com 2728 E. Palmdale Boulevard #121 Palmdale, CA 93550 661-266-3906 Hydrostar Hydroponics & Organics 1307 W. Sixth Street, #211, Corona, CA 92882 951-479-8069 Inland Empire Hydrogarden 1301-C South State Street, San Jancinto, CA 92853 886-72-HYDRO Inland Empire Hydrogarden 28822 Old Town Front St. #206 Temecula, CA 92590 886-74-HYDRO Innovative Growing Solutions (IGS) 7922-B Miramar Road, San Diego, CA 92126 858-578-IGS7 Kaweah Grower Supply 1106 1/2 N. Ben Maddox Way, Visalia, CA 93293 559-652-4937 Kern Hydroponics 2408 Brundage Lane, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93304 661-323-7333 Lazy Gardeners Hydroponics ‘N’ More 14626 East Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90605 562-945-0909 Let it Grow 1228 2nd Street, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-464-9086 Let it Grow 160 Westwood Center, Arcata, CA 95521 707-822-8733 Liquid Gardens 21752 Devonshire Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311 818-718-7624 Long Beach Hydroponics & Organics 1772 Clark Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90815 562-498-9525 Lumatek Digital Ballasts 33 Commercial Boulevard, Suite B Novato, CA 94949 415-233-4273

M&M Garden Supply 2509 West Lane, Suite B Stockton, CA 95205 209-939-0664 M&M Garden Supply 22540 D Foothill Boulevard, 2509 Westlane Suite B Stockton, CA 95205 Marin Hydroponics 1219 Grant Avenue, Novato, CA 94945 415-897-2197 Medicine Man Farms 1602 53rd Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Mendocino Garden Shop PO Box 1301, 44720 Maint Street (at Hwy. 1), Mendocino, CA 95460 707-937-3459 Mendocino Greenhouse & Garden Supply 900 East School Way, Redwood Valley, CA 95470 707-485-0668 Merced Hydroponics 1635 M Street, Merced, CA 95340 209-726-4769 M.G.S. 22540 D Foothill Boulevard, Hayward, CA 94541 510-582-0900 Monterey Bay Horticulture Supply 224B Reindollar Avenue, Marina, CA 93933 831-38-HYDRO Monterey Bay Hydroponics and Organics 81 Hangar Way, #1, Watsonville, CA 95076 831-761-9999 Myron L Company 2450 Impala Drive, Carlsband, CA 9210-7226 760-438-2021 Mystic Gardens 8484 Florin Road, #110, Sacramento, CA 95828 916-381-2464 National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 1950 C South Grove Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761 888-888-3319 Nature’s Secret Garden and Supply 41469 Albrae Street, Fremont, CA 94577 510-623-8393 NorCal Creations PO Box 28, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 Nor Cal Hydroponics 4837 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118 415-933-8262 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 122 West 4th Street, Suite B Eureka, CA 95501 707-444-9999 Northcoast Horticulture Supply 1580 Nursery Way, Suite Q McKinleyville, CA 95519 707-839-9998 Northcoast Hydrogardens 3450 North State Street, Ukiah, CA 95482 707-462-7214 No Stress Hydroponics 7543 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90046 323-845-9874

One Stop Hydroponics 12822 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606 818-980-5855 Oracle Garden Supply 5755 Oberlin Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92121 858-558-6006 Orange County Hydroponics 12687 Beach Boulevard, Unit H, Stanton, CA 90680 714-893-9493 Organic Bountea 1919 Dennis Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 800-798-0765 Orsa Organix 111 Willow Street, Redwood City, CA 94063 650-369-1269 Pacific Beach Hydroponics 1852 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109 858-274-2559 Pacific Coast Hydroponics 4147 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230 310-313-1354 Pacific Garden Supply 128 H Carlos Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903 Palmdale Hydroponics 2728 East Palmdale Boulevard Suite 108, Palmdale, CA 93550 661-266-9908 Palm Springs Hydroponics 4651 Ramon Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-ROOT Plant It Earth 2279 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94114 415-626-5082 Plant Life 32 Race Street, San Jose, CA 95126 408-283-9191 Plant-N-Grow 1602 53rd Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601 707-980-0456 Precision Hydroponics 132 Kennedy Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008 408-866-8176 Pro Gardening Systems 3715 Santa Rosa Avenue #2, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-585-8633 Pro Gardening Systems 4936 Highway 12, Santa Rosa, CA 95472 707-538-8402 Pro Gardening Systems 765 Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol, CA 95472 707-829-7252 Redway Feed & Grain Supply 290 Briceland Road, Redway, CA 95560 707-923-2765 Roots Grow Supply 1330 North Hulbert, #101 Fresno, CA 93728 559-840-0122 Sac Hydroponics 9529 Folson Boulevard, Suite C Sacramento, CA 95827 916-369-7968

San Diego Hydroponics East County 11649 Riverside Drive, Suite 141, Lakeside, CA 92040 619-562-3276 San Diego Hydroponics Beach Cities 4122 Napier Street, San Diego, CA 92110 619-276-0657 San Diego Hydroponics North 802 N. Twin Oaks Valley Road #108 San Marcos, CA 92069 760-510-1444 San Francisco Hydro 123 Tenth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - West 815 Almar Avenue, Suite K, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-466-9000 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - East 4000 Cordelia Lane #4, Soquel, CA 95073 831-475-9900 Santa Cruz Hydroponics & Organics - North 6241 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018 831-335-9990 Santee Hydroponics 7973A Mission Gorge Road, Santee, CA 92071 619-270-8649 Seaside Hydrogarden 1070 Highway 101 North, Crescent City, CA 95531 707-465-3520 Skywide Import & Export Ltd. 5900 Lemon Hill Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95824 916-383-2369 Socal Hydroponics 1727-B Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92054 760-439-1084 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics 569 East Evelyn Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94041 650-968-4070 South Bay Hydroponics and Organics - San Jose 1185 South Bascom Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128 408-292-4040 South County Hydroponics 22511 Aspan Street, Suite E Lake Forest, CA 92630 949-837-8252 South Valley Hydroponics 320 Kishimura Drive, #3 Gilroy, CA 95020 1-866-848-GROW Sparetime Supply 208 E. San Francisco Avenue, Willits, CA 95490-4006 707-459-6791 Sun-In Hydroponics 1257A Cleveland Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 707-578-5747 Sunland Hydroponics 8300 Foothill Boulevard, Sunland, CA 91040 818-352-5300 Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 850 Shasta Avenue, Suite B Morro Bay, CA 93442 805-772-5869 Supersonic Hydroponic and Organic Garden Supply 3850 Ramada Drive, Unit D2 Paso Robles, CA 93446 805-434-2333

Sweet Leaf Hydroponics 1611 Sebastobol Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 707-575-GROW (4237) Sylvandale Gardens 77 Avenue, Of The Giants, Phillipsville, CA 95559 707-923-3606 Tahoe Garden Supply 645 Westlake Boulevard, Suite 2, PO Box 487 Tahoe City, CA 96145 530-581-3200 Tell 2 Friends Indoor Gardening 62 Sutherland Drive, Auburn, CA 95603 530-889-8171 The Green Shop 66420 Mooney Blvd., Suite 1 Visalia, CA 93277 559-688-4200 The Shop 6542 Front Street, Forestville, CA 95436 707-887-2280 Thrive Hydroponics 70 A West North Street, Healdsburg, CA 95446 707-433-4068 Thunders Hydroponic Center 1729 Yosemite Boulevard, Medesco, CA 95354 TNC Supply 9490 Main Street, P.O. Box 763 Upper Lake, CA 95485 707-275-9565 Tower Garden Supply 3 E Olive, Fresno, CA 93728 559-495-1140 Tradewinds Wholeslae Garden Supplies 1235 Striker Avenue #180, Sacramento, CA 95834 888-557-8896 Tulare County Growers Supply 435 W. Noble Avenue, Unit A, Farmerville, CA 93223 559-732-8247 Turbo Grow 1889 San Pablo Avenue, Pinole, CA 94564 510-724-1291 Two Chix Garden Supply 1230 Yuba Street, Marysville, CA 95901 530-923-2536 Under The Sun 12638 Foothill Boulevard, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423 707-998-GROW (4769) Urban Gardens 22516 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-876-0222 Urban Gardens Unlimited 704 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 415-421-4769 US Orchid & Hydroponic Supplies 1621 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93033 805-247-0086 Valley Garden Solutions Inc. 15650 Nordhoff Avenue, Suite 104, North Hills, CA 91345 818-336-0041 Wai Kula Hydrogardens 5297 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA 92110 619-299-7299 Weather Top Nursery 44901 Harmon Drive, Laytonville, CA 95454 707-984-6385

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

139

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Western Auto 1156 Main Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-1189

Indoor Paradise Hydroponics 309 S. Summit View, Unit 17, Fort Collins, CO 80524-1462 970-221-3751 Rocky Mountain Lighting and Hydroponics 7100 N. Broadway, Suite 3D Denver, CO 80221 303-428-5020 Way To Grow 3201 E. Mulberry Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4769 Way To Grow 6395 Gunpark Drive, Boulder, CO 80301 303-473-4769

COLORADO

CONNECTICUT

We Grow Hydroponics 3350 East Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley, CA 93063 805-624-4566 West Coast Growers Hydroponics 13481 Colifax Highway, Grass Valley, CA 95945 888-924-4769 West Coast Hydroponics, Inc. 27665 Forbes Road, Unit 10 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949-348-2424

Bath Nursery & Garden Center 2000 E. Prospect, Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-484-5022 Big Tomato, The 14440 E. 6th Avenue Aurora, CO 80011 303-364-4769 Big Tomato, The 3000 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301 970-375-1238 Boulder County Caregivers PO Box 7406, Golden, CO 80403 303-495-2195 Boulder Hydroponics 1630 N. 63rd Street, #5, Boulder, CO 80301 303-415-0045 Cultivate Hydroponics & Organics 7777 W. 38th Avenue, #A120A Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-954-9897 Denver Hydroponic & Organic Center 6810 North Broadway, Unit D Denver, CO 80221 303-650-0091 Desert Bloom Hydroponics 445 Pitkin Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-245-6427 Garden Tech 737 Garden of the Gods Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-278-9777 Greenhouse Tech 917 East Fillmore, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-634-0637 Grow Store South, The 5050 S. Federal Boulevard, #37, Englewood, CO 80110 303-738-0202 Grow Store, The 8644 W. Colfax Avenue, Lakewood, CO 80215 888-510-0350 Head Start Hydroponics & Organic Gardening Emporium 34500 US Highway 6, Unit B-9, North Edwards, CO 81632 970-569-3139 Hydro-Grow Supply 644 Peterson Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80915 719-596-2600 Hydro Shack, The 220 Main Street, Suite E Frisco, CO 80443 970-668-0359

140

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

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

FLORIDA Absolute Growing Solutions Inc. 7307 49th Street, Pinellas Park, FL 33781 727-541-3333 Advanced Hydro Gardens 4960 NW 165 Street, Suite B-4, Miami, FL 33014 866-97-HYDRO Atlantic Hydroponics 430 Count Street, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-1535 Blossoms Experience, The 7207 NW 54th Street, Miami, FL 33166 866-452-4769 Cultivating Eden Hydroponic Supplies 946 18th Avenue SW, Vero Beach, FL 32962 772-564-8880 East Coast Hydroponics & Organics 461 Forrest Avenue, Suite 105 Coca, FL 32922 321-243-6800 Eden Garden Supply 5044 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32505 850-439-1299 Esposito Garden Center 2743 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-386-2114 Florida Garden Supplies 2692 W 79 Street, Hialeah, FL 33016 1-800-931-5215 Florida Garden Supplies 8020 Belvedere Road,Unit 4, West Palm Beach, FL 33411 561-333-1088 Future Farms Inc., The 14291 SW 120th Street, Suite 105 Miami, FL 33186 305-382-2757 Gardener’s Edge Gainesville 5000 NW 34th Street, Suite 13, Gainesville, FL 32605 352-375-2769

Gardener’s Edge Jacksonville 5325 Fairmont Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-398-8012 Gold Coast Hydroponics 1539 SW 21st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 1-800-780-7371 Gold Coast Hydroponics 4241 SW 71st Avenue, Miami, FL 33155 1-800-780-6805 Grace’s Hydro-Organic Garden Center 8877 North 56th Street Tampa, FL 33617 813-514-9376 Green Thumb Hydroponics Supplies 13482 North Cleveland Avenue, Fort Meyers, FL 33903 239-997-4769 GreenTouch Hydroponics Inc. 5011 S State Road 7, Suite 104 Davie, FL 33314 954-316-8815 Grower's Choice & Hydroponics 11855 North Main Street, Jackonsonville, FL 32218 904-683-4517 Growing Garden Inc., The 12811 SW 42nd Street, Miami, FL 33175 305-559-0309 Harvest Time Hydroponics 14414 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33613 813-264-7101 Healthy Gardens and Supply of Florida, Inc. 196 East Nine Mile Road, Suite F, Pensacola, FL 32534 850-912-4545 High Tech Garden Supply 2975 West New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32901 321-821-0853 Hydro For Less 9545 Southwest 72nd Street, Miami, FL 33173 305-598-4311 Hydroponics International Inc. 7029-10 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32220 904-693-6554 Hydroponics of Tampa 120 W. Bougain Villea, Tampa, FL 33612 813-333-6828 Hydro Terra Corp.

924 North Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020 954-920-0889 Palm Beach Hydroponics Supply, Inc. 968 N. Congress Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33409 561-296-6161 Simply Hydroponics & Organics 7949 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33773 727-531-5355 Simply Hydroponics & Organics (North) 3642 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34448 352-628-2655 Stoney Hydro @ Schiro's Barn n Garden Supplies 7812 Causeway Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33619 813-626-0902 Sunshine Hydroponics Garden Center 1420 East Altomonte Drive, Altamonte Spring, FL 32701 407-830-GROW

Sunshine Hydroponics Garden Center 5561 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809 407-859-7728 Sunshine Hydroponics Garden Center 6100 Hanging Moss Road, Suite 500, Orlando, FL 32807 888-833-GROW Worm’s Way Florida 4412 North 56th Street, Tampa, FL 33610 800-283-9676; 813-621-1792

GEORGIA Atlantis Hydroponics 1422 Woodmont Lane, #4, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-367-0052 Atlantis Hydroponics 2561 West Point Avenue, College Park, GA 30337 678-510-0032 Flora Hydroponics Inc. 2475 Jefferson Road, Suite 600 Athens, GA 30607 866-404-0551 Savannah Hydroponics & Organics 4107 Eighth Street, Suite C Garden City, GA 31408 912-349-4030

HAWAII Aqua Plant Hawaii / Kahala Hydroponics 4224 Wailae, Suite 1A, Honolulu, HI 96816 808-735-8665 Ohana Greenhouse & Garden Supply 300 Hukilike Street, #2M, Kahalui, HI 96732 808-871-6393 Pahoa Feed & Fertilizer 15-2754 Old Government Road, Pahoa, HI 96778 808-965-9955

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

ILLINOIS Aerostar Global 824 South Kay Avenue, Addison, IL 60101 Alternative Garden Supply A-615 Industrial Drive, Gary, IL 60013 800-444-2837 Big Grow Hydroponics 9225 Trinity Drive, Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 Brew and Grow 1824 North Besly Court, Chicago, IL 60622 773-395-1500 Brew and Grow 3224 South Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61109 815-874-5700 Brew and Grow 2379 Bode Road, Schaumburg, IL 60194 847-885-8282 Fertile Ground 463 West MacArthur Drive, Cottage Hills, IL 62018 618-259-5500

Green Fields 8137 N. Milwaukee, Niles, IL 60714 847-965-5056 Grow Big Hydroponics 7817 B North 2nd Street, Manchesney Park, IL 61115 815-637-4769 Hydrocork 20647 Renwick Road, Crest Hill, IL 60435 815-838-0100 Kreation’s Indoor Gardening Center 3427 Old Chatman Road, Springfield, IL 62704 217-341-0821 Let it Grow - Carbondale West Main Street, Carbondale, IL 62908 573-450-5401 Prairie House Garden Center 15151 South Harlem Avenue, Orland, IL 60462 708-687-3131 Water Works Indoor Gardening 1900 South Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62703 217-553-6929

INDIANA BWGS 7854 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 800-316-1306 Five Point Gardens 56555 Oak Road, South Bend, IN 46619 574-287-9232 Frogs Lilly Pad, The 706 Citation Road, Carmel, IN 46032 317-846-4610 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 4200 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-780-8070 Magic Bulb Garden Center 6229 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-202-2852 Sunleaves Garden Products 7854 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 888-464-9676 Worm’s Way Indiana 7850 North State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404 800-598-8158

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

KENTUCKY Garden Grove Organics 29 East 7th Street, Covington, (Cincinnati Metro), KY 41011 859-360-1843 Grow Shop, The of Lexington 2320 Palumbo Drive, Suite 130, Lexington, KY 40509 859-268-0779 Louisville Hydroponics 3471 Taylor Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40215 502-366-4000 New Earth Garden Center 9810 Taylorsville Road, Louisville, KY 40299 800-462-5953

Worm’s Way Kentucky 1360 Donaldson Hwy. Suite A, Erlanger, KY 41018 800-669-2088

LOUISIANA Laughing Buddha Nursery 4516 Clearview Parkway, Metairie, LA 70006 504-887-4336 Urban Organics 285 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70117 504-352-4709

MAINE Green Thumb Indoor Gardening 19 Stage Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 207-938-5909 Urban Garden Center 235 Lewiston Road, Toposhan, ME 04086 207-373-0990

MARYLAND East Coast Organics 2800 Sisson Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 Healthy Gardens and Supply 5001-F Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214 443-708-5144 Maryland Hydroponics Inc. 10051 North 2nd Street, Laurel, MD 20723 866-MD-HYDRO Meadowview Feed & Garden Center 1202 Meadowview Road, Pasadena, MD 21122 443-817-0018 Purple Mountain Organics 100-7010 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 877-538-9901

MASSACHUSETTS Greenlife Garden Supply 481 Boston Road, Unit 4, Billerica, MA 01821 978-262-9966 Green Path Garden Supply 276 West Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532 508-393-4181 LiquidSun® MA 8 Lynwood Avenue, Holyoke, MA 01040 413-539-6875 New England Hydroponics 15 D Coolege Hwy. (Rt. 10), Southampton, MA 01073 888-529-9025 Worm’s Way Massachusetts 121 Worc-Providence Turnpike, Sutton, MA 01590 800-284-9676

MICHIGAN BIg Creek Hydroponics 555 Old Little Lake Road, Marquette, MI 49855 906-249-5297 Cultivation Station of Michigan Inc., The 23529 Little Mack Avenue, St Claire’s Shores, MI 48080 586-775-9485 Growco Garden Supply 1042 Michigan Street, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 877-939-6900

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

141

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Home Grown Hydroponics 8075 Gratiot Road, Unit C, Saginaw MI 48609 989-781-1930 Homelight Gardens 3471 S. Huron Road, Bay City, MI 48706 989-922-0088 Horizen Hydroponics 1614 Leonard Street, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 866-791-1644 HotHydro® 5245 Jackson Road, Suite F Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-761-5040; 877-893-0716 Hydroharrys.com 24500 Dequindre, Warren, MI 48091 800-461-8819 Hydrospot 34236 Michigan Avenue, Wayne, MI 48184 734-722-1285 J&L Growco 206 S. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 231-796-1528 Kalamazoo Indoor Garden 450 W. Maple, Kalamazoo, MI 49001 269-344-2550 Light Green Water 3661 Highland Road, Waterford, MI 48329 248-681-0001 SH Hydroponics Inc. 115 Holmes Road, Building 3 Suite A, Ypsilanti, MI 48198 734-879-4014 Sunshine Supply Co. 1807 South Mission, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 989-775-3700 Superior Growers Supply 19582 Middlebelt Road, Livonia, MI 48152 248-473-0450 Superior Growers Supply 4870 Dawn Avenue, East Lansing, MI 48823 517-332-2663 The Grow Store 721 W. Blue Star Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684 231-421-5191 Van Hydro 7480 N State, Davison, MI 48423 810-653-8267 Wild Child 7740 M 72 East, Traverse City, MI 49690 866-711-GROW

MINNESOTA American Garden Supply 601-6th Avenue, North, Princeton, MN 55371 763-631-0543 Brew and Grow 8179 University Avenue, Fridley, MN 55432 612-780-8191 EcoGarden Supply 1553 Como Avenue, Suite B St. Paul, MN 55108

142

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Eden Indoor Organic Gardens 831 Highway 75 North Moorhead, MN 56560 218-477-EDEN (3336) Indoor Gardening 10 NE 3rd Street, Faribault, MN 55021 507-209-1546

All American Hydroponics 2675 East Patrick Lane, Unit 8, Las Vegas, NV 89120 702-894-9888

Interior Gardens 115 -1620 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 800-498-4178; 612-870-9077

Carson Valley Hydroponics 2520 Empire Ranch Road, Carson City, NV 89701 775-884-4769

Midwest Hydroponics 3440 Belt Line Boulevard, Suite A, Minneapolis, MN 55416 888-449-2739

Lorraine Ink 290 Spear Court, Fernley, NV 89408 775-575-7757

Still-H2O Inc. 14375 North 60th Street, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-2822

Nevada Hydroponics 4700 B Maryland, Suite 1, Las Vegas, NV 89119 702-798-2852

MISSOURI

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Divine Hydroponics 301 North Bishop Avenue, Rolla, MO 65401 573-426-2348 Grow Your Own Hydroponics 3617 Saint John Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-241-2122 Green Circle Hydroponics 12 East Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-421-1840 Heartland Hydrogardens 5695 E. Clark Lane, Suite L, Columbia, MO 65202 573-474-GROW (4769)

Anything Grows 190 West Moana Lane, Reno, NV 89509 775-828-1460

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

NEW JERSEY 77HYDRO 37 Fairfield Place, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 877-774-9376 Claraqua 4 Redwood Court, West Windsor, NJ 08550

HYDROGARDENS

Let It Grow - Springfield 2519 E. Kearney Street, Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-GROW Let It Grow - Girardeau 879 S. Kings Highway, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703 573-803-0628 U-Grow 1724 North, 13th Street, St. Louis, MO 63106 314-452-6368 Worm’s Way Missouri 1225 North Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132 800-285-9676

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

NEVADA AAA Indoor Organic Garden SuperCenter 2101 S. Decatur Boulevard, #21, Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-450-4769 Advanced Gardens Hydroponics 3111 South Valley View, Suite V103 Las Vegas, NV 89102 702-257-4769

East Coast Horticultural Supply 1652 Hurffville Road, Swewell, NJ 08080 856-228-5290 Garden State Hydroponics 511 Avenel Street, Avenel, NJ 07001 888-300-8711 Green Touch 2 Hydroponics Inc. 888 Route 33, Unit 1, Hamilton, NJ 08619 609-570-8829

greentouch2

NEW MEXICO

HYDROPO NI C S

AHL Garden Supply 1051 San Mateo Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 505-255-3677 Common Shaman 1319 San Mateo N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-255-6463

NEW YORK California Hydroponics 27 Corporate Circle, East Syracuse, NY 13057 315-432-9387 East Coast Hydroponics 14649 Horace Harding Exp, Flushing, NY 11367 718-762-8880 Environmental Gardens 8 John Walsh Boulevard, Suite 310 Peekskills, NY 10566 800-254-0507; 914-736-6676 FutureGarden Inc. 59 Central Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-420-0884 Greentree Nursery 308 Elmira Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-3666

I NC .

Grow Room, The 8 Bridge Street, Nyack, NY 10960 800-449-9630 Harvest Moon Hydroponics Henrietta Townline Plaza, 3047 West Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623 716-865-7353 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 340 West at 59, Central Nyack, NY 10960 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 147 Fourth Street, Troy, NY 10960 Healthy Harvest Organics and Hydro 163 Broadway, Fort Edwart, NY 12828 518-480-4698 Hudson Valley Hydroponics 217 Route 32 North, New Paltz, NY 12561 845-255-3633 Hydro Garden Center 1069B Lyell Avenue, Rochester, NY 14606 1-800-277-1322 Hydroponics of Buffalo 1497 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216 716-838-3545 Hydroponics Shops of America 2606 Erie Boulevard, Syracuse, NY 13224 315-251-2516 Indoor Outdoor Gardener 8223 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-836-2402 KG Garden Supply 1327 Floyd Avenue, Rome, NY 13440 1-877-KG-HYDRO Saratoga Organics & Hydroponic Supply 19 Front Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-2005; 800-850-4769 Sunlight Solutions Hydroponics 2045 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Suite 13, Niagara Falls, NY 14304 888-GROWBOX

NORTH CAROLINA Be Well Hydroponics & Urban Gardening 4732 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-344-8010 BWGS East 4045 Perimeter West Drive, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28214 800 316 1306 Fifth Season Gardening Company 45 Banks Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801 828-253-4112 Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 South Greensboro Street, Carrboro, NC 27510 919-932-7600 Fifth Season Gardening Company 1616 D-3 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27408 336-271-3373 Fifth Season Gardening Company 5619-A Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606 919-852-4747 Flow & Grow Hydroponics & Organic Garden Center 4521 Cumberland Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 910-423-FLOW (3569)

New Age Gardens 2236A US Highway 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778 828-299-9989 Progressive Gardens 6005 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-395-1156 Urban Organics and Hydroponics 4604 W. Market Street, Suite 106, Greensboro, NC 27407 336-316-0604 Water’s Edge Hydro-Gardens & Organics 107 South White Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587 919-562-5343

Magic Home Garden 4538 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 614-263-2440

OHIO

Toledo Hydroponics Ltd. 855 S. Holland-Sylvania Road, Suite 2 Toledo, OH 43615 1-877-893-0716

Advanced Hydrorganics Indoor Garden Center 5204 Darrow Road, Hudson, OH 44236 234-380-1287 Akron Garden Center 1749 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44319 330-724-2700 Cleveland Garden Center Inc. 727 East 185th Street, Cleveland, OH 44119 216-481-7868 CropKing 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 Carefree Garden Center 134 West Drive, Lodi, OH 44254 330-302-4203 Dayton Hydroponics 3856 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, West Carrolton, OH 45449 937-859-3999 Garden Indoors of Ohio 4720 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214 800-833-6868 Greenleaf Hydroponics 1805 Elm Road, Warren, OH 44483 330-372-1039 Harvest Moon 9215 Market Street, Youngstown (North Lima), OH 44452 800-776-8399 Garden Grove Organics 29 East 7th Street, Covington, (Cincinnati Metro), KY 41011 859-360-1843 Grow Wizard, The 5700 Denison Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102 216-961-2500 Herb-N-Garden Center 14901 Puritas Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44135 216-252-2001 Indoor Garden Worx 906 Blue Avenue, Zanesville, OH 43701 866-900-9679 Indoor Gardens 1222 Hill Road, North, Pickerington, OH 43147 614-866-6065 Kissed by the Sun Hydroponic 10740 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 513-769-0159 Magic Home Gardens 209 Cemetery Road, Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-837-2440

Summit Hydroponics 1030 Kenmore Boulevard Akron, OH 44314-2114 330-753-5222 Sweet Greens 5540 Brecksville Road Independence, OH 44131 800-421-7084 Super Harvest 5956 A Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45239 513-385-5999

Trinity Hydro Organics 435 Woodman Drive Riverside, OH 45431 937-252-GROW Worm’s Way - Greater Cincinatti / N. Kentucky 1360 Donaldson Road (Route 236), Suite A, Erlanger, KY 41018 800-669-2088

OKLAHOMA AAAAHA! Hydroponics Unlimited P.O. Box 74, Oakhurst, OK 74050 Tulsa County Hydro-Organics 1928 W. Albany, Broken Arrow, OK 74012 918-259-HYDRO Urban Garden 3141 E. 15th Street, Tulsa, OK 74104 918-289-0018

OREGON American Agriculture 9220 Southeast Stark Street, Portland, OR 97216 800-433-6805 Anthony’s Garden & Light Supply 93779 B Troy Lane, Coos Bay, OR 97420 541-266-8822 Aqua Serene 2836 W. 11, Eugene, OR 97402 541-485-2171 Aqua Serene Hydro Gardens 1090 Benson Way, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-7600 Basin Indoor Gardening 1221 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-273-2023 B.I.G.S. 155 SW Century Drive, Suite 401, Bend, OR 97702 541-385-5222 BIGS Warehouse 2606 SW 4th Street, Unit B Redmond, OR 97756 541-504-8886 Cascade Horticulture 39570 Pioneer Boulevard, Sandy, OR 97055 503-668-8242 Corvallis Hydroponics & Organics 5490 Philomath Road, Corvallis, OR 97333 541-738-2820

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

143

MAXIMUM YIELD distributors

Everybody’s Garden Center 2701 SE 14th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202 800-669-5483

Northern Light and Garden Salem 1915 Lancester Drive, Salem, OR 97305 503-364-4769

Forever Green Organic Hydro Gardens 7530 Crater Lake Highway, White City, OR 97503 541-826-2946

Oregon Rainforest Co. 19949 E. Burnside Street, Gresham, OR 97233 503-465-9909

Garden Spout, The 4532 South East 63rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97206 503-788-4769

Paradise Supply Inc. 1409 N. Highway 99, Ashland, OR 97520 541-552-1037

Gorge Garden Center 1203 12th Street Suite H, Hood River, OR 97031 541-386-GROW Gorilla Garden Supply 1810 Virginia Avenue, North Bend, OR 97459 541-756-5005

Rain or Shine 13126 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230 503-255-1981

Garden Supplies

Green Thumb Hydrogarden and Organic Supply 2021 West Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 541-779-8600 Grow America Garden Supply LLC 11511 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, OR 97223 503-841-6868 Growing Crazy (Hooked On Hydroponics) 817 W. 2nd Street, Medford, OR 97501 Herb N’ Jungle Hydroponics 930 SE Textron Drive, Bend, OR 97702 541-382-4010 Homegrown Garden Supply 7112 NE Gilsan Street, Portland, OR 97213 877-EZ2-GROW Indoor Garden Center 1697 SE 25th Street, Salem, OR 97302 503-566-7888 Indoor Garden Depot 15828 SE McLoughlin Boulevard, Milwaukie, OR 97267 503-786-2445 Island Flowers & Indoor Garden Center 909 N. Tomahawk Island Drive, Suite 103, Portland, OR 97217 503-546-3185 J-N-B Hydro 2 Go 155 West Central Avenue, Sutherlin, OR 97479 541-459-9211 Ladybug Indoor Gardens 3960 W. Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 541-618-4459 Lights Distributing 9843 SW 55th Avenue, Portland, OR 97219 Liquid Sun 1845 Southwest Highway 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367 541-994-7070 Moonshine Park Farms 135 South East 62nd, Unit F South Beach, OR 97366 541-444-2298 Northern Light and Garden Beaverton 9290 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-297-7331 Northern Light and Garden Grants Pass 1203 Rogue River Highway, Grants Pass, OR 97527 541-474-1700

144

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

Roots Garden Supply 5426 North Gay Avenue, Portland, OR 97217 503-285-4768

All Good Hydroponics & Gardening 6729 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223 803-708-4819 GreenSpirit Hydrogarden 1864 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-1GRO; Green Thumb Unique Gardening & More 1230 Rutherford Road, Greenville, SC 29609 864-271-8830

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

TENNESSEE

Roseburg Hydroponics 853 SE Stephens Street, Roseburg, OR 97470 541-229-1420

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 783 French Mill Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 800-521-1643

SunInside Gardening Co. 665 Conger, Unit F, Eugene, OR 97402 541-686-9966

Advanced Hydroponic Garden 6912 Clinton Highway, Knoxville, TN 37921 866-938-3318

Urban Flora 2865 South East, Portland, OR 97214 503-236-3344

All Seasons Gardening and Brewing Supply Co. 924 8th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203 800-790-2188

Wizard's Garden, LLC 621 Spruce Street, Unit C, Myrtle Point, OR 97458 541-572-2333

Atlantis Hydroponics 1800 Rossville Avenue, #3, Chattanooga, TN 37408 423-752-5400

PENNSYLVANIA

National Garden Wholesale/Sunlight Supply 126 Belinda Parkway, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 888-265-9005

Full Bloom Hydroponics 84 South 24th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 888-872-3602 Garden Indoors of Pennsylvania 208 Route 13, Bristol, PA 19007 800-227-4567 Harvest Moon Hydroponics 1239 South Airport Road, Allentown, PA 18103 610-432-4949 Healthy Gardens and Supply 1012 Lincoln Avenue, Prospect Park, PA 19076 866-32-HYDRO High Tech Garden Supply 20232 Route 19, Unit 6, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-473-1113 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 2008 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412-232-7030 Home Hydroponics of Pittsburgh 830 Route 119, Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-1118

RHODE ISLAND LiquidSun® RI 1179 Central Avenue, Pawtucket, MA 02861 401-722-2724

Perpetual Harvest 75 Riverport Drive, Jackson, TN 38301 877-422-3391 Sun City Hydroponics 2235 Whitten Road, Suite 104, Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-8100 Worm’s Way Tennessee 707 Rivergate Parkway, Suite E Goodlettsville, TN 37072 800-397-4153

TEXAS Airline Hydroponics P.O. Box 980904, Trader’s Village #363, Houston, TX 77098 713-942-0484 Botani Hydroponics & Organics 7730 Highway 6 South Houston, TX 77083 281-575-1999 Brite Ideas Hydroponics & Organics 4360 S.Congress Avenue, #310, Austin, TX 78745 512-444-2100 Field of Dreams Indoor Growing Supplies 5302 Slide Road Unit B, Lubbock, TX 79414 806-793-2901

SOUTH CAROLINA

GreenMaker Nursery 3030 Northwest Loop, Stephenville, TX 76401 254-965-7273

247 Garden Supply 535 D Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229 803-788-4445

GroGreen Hydroponics 4015 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-370-9984

Happy Harvest 1500 Crescent Drive, #202 Carrollton, TX 75006 972-820-9376

Clean & Green Technologies 196 Corning Drive, Christiansburg, VA 24073 866-694-1628

Northern Light and Garden Vancouver 6305 NE Highway 99, Vancouver, WA 98665 360-993-7779

Houston Discount Hydroponics 9384 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77063 713-464-9406

Hydroponics & Growlights 13400 Occoquan Road, Woodbridge, VA 22191 703-490-0700

Northern Lights Gardening 4159 Hannegan Road, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-715-8585

Hydro Mart 3841 Main Street, Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-6114

I Love Hydroponics 612 N. Sheppard Street, Richmond, VA 23221 804-377-3020

Northwest Horticulture Supply 161 Hooker Road, #1, Sequim, WA 98057 360-582-0702

Innergrow Hydroponics 24451 Interstate Highway 20, Wills Point, TX 75169 866-475-4769

I Love Hydroponics 368 Newtown Road, #105, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-490-5425

Renton Indoor Garden Center 207 Sunset Blvd. N, Building A, Renton, WA 98055 425-917-9000

Jolly Green Hydroponics (Greenhouse Horticultural Supplies) 13628 Neutron Road, Dallas, TX 75244 (866) WE-JOLLY; 469-341-5555

Inside-Out Garden Supply 6517 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22150 703-451-3259

River City Hydroponics 1514 East Francis Avenue, Spokane, WA 99208 509-464-0246

Lone Star Hydroponics and Organics 1302 Motor Circle, Dallas, TX 75207 214-634-9376 Sol Organics & Hydroponics 1634 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210-366-9082 Texas Growers Supply 5990 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E. #602, Humble, TX 77396 281-441-3739 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Central Austin) 5126 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78756 512-459-4769 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (South Austin) 2125-A Goodrich Avenue, Austin, TX 78704 512-440-4769 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Dallas) 3400 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226 214-744-4769 Texas Hydroponics & Organics (Houston) 7730 A Park Place Boulevard, Houston, TX 77087 713-641-4769 Ultimate Hydroponic Garden Supply 6125 West Sam Houston Parkway, North Suite 206 Houston, TX 77041 713-856-8425

WASHINGTON Aqua Serene 3839 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-GROW Eco Enterprises 1240 NE 175th Street, #B Shoreline, WA 98155 800-426-6937 Garden Smart 500 Bond Drive, Castlerock, WA 98611 360-274-7960 Green Gardens Distributing 12738 Bel-Red Road, Bellevue, WA 98005 425-454-5731 Hydro-Tech 2121 Aurora Avenue, North, Seattle, WA 98103 206-547-2202 Indoor Garden Depo 6305 NE Highway 99, Vancouver, WA 98665 360-993-7779 Indoor Garden & Lighting 3839 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406 253-761-7478 Indoor Garden & Lighting 23303 Highway 99, Suite A, Edmonds, WA 98026 425-673-2755

UTAH

Indoor Garden & Lighting 714 South Central Avenue, Kent, WA 98032 253-373-9060

Salt Lake Plant & Hydro 60 West 3300 S. #6, South Salt Lake, UT 84115 801-488-3200

Kent Garden Supplies Ltd. 18817 East Valley Highway, Kent, WA 98032 425-251-9299

VERMONT

Linda’s Gardening & Hydroponics 11522 Canyon Road East, Puyallup, WA 98373 253-531-9641

Green Thumb Gardening P.O. Box 235, Route 15, Underhill, VT 5489 800-564-9376 Greenthumb - Vermont 394 Route 15, Jericho, VT 05465 802-899-4323 LiquidSun® VT 1 Bellows Falls Road, (Route 5 North) Putney, VT 05158 802-387-1100

Liquid Sunshine Hydroponics 5087 Lincoln Road, Blaine, WA 98230 M & R Lighting 17238 Memorial Drive, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 360-848-1080

VIRGINIA

M & R Lighting Unit C 22914 Highway 410, Buckley, WA 98390 253-891-4190

Blue Ridge Hydroponics & Home Brewing Co. 5524 Williamson Road, Suite 11 Roanoke VA 24012 540-265-2483

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

Solar Shop 306 West 4th Street, Tonasket, WA 98855 509-486-4508 Spokane Organic and Hydroponic Supply 4823 East Sprague Avenue E., Spokane Valley, WA 99212 509-534-4055

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

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

MY WE THANK ALL OF OUR DEDICATED RETAILERS FOR OFFERING MAXIMUM YIELD TO THEIR CUSTOMERS. ARE YOU CURRENTLY DISTRIBUTING MAXIMUM YIELD FROM YOUR RETAIL STORE? If so, pass along your contact information to us here at the magazine care of ilona@maximumyield.com and we will add your store’s name, address and telephone number to our distributor listing in an upcoming issue.

Add your company logo to the distributor listings!

Call 250-729-2677 or Email ilona@maximumyield.com

MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009

145

COMING UP IN november

FEATURES

Berry Bonanza: Growing Indoor Strawberries One of the most exciting challenges of indoor gardening is producing out of season fruits and vegetables. Dr. Lynette Morgan guides you through a successful and delicious strawberry harvest to feed you through the winter.

Climate Controllers: Calibration for Indoor Gardening Success In their second article produced for Maximum Yield, Isabelle Lemay and Mélissa Léveillé help you achieve that perfect ‘recipe’ for big yields by utilizing precise calibration instruments.

Conductivity and Nutrient Concentration Bob Taylor explains why it is so important to control the concentration of nutrients and how a conductivity (EC) meter can be of assistance.

Back to the Future Luis Bartolo looks into the history of organic cultivation and, what organic agriculture is and where we are today in terms of development.

You Tell Us Maximum Yield discusses sustainable and practical growing with the experts at Botanicare, Arizona-based manufacturers of progressive, consumer-driven gardening products.

www.maximumyield.com Win Big! Grow Big! You could be the next BIG winner in our online reader contest, Win Big! Grow Big! Starting November 1 to December 15, enter online at www.maximumyield.com/winbig for your chance to win one of the following prizes: Waterproof TDS/EC COM100 Meter from HM Digital, Nature’s Solution Compost Tea, Ushio Red and Blue Metal Halide Conversion Lamps and the Powerbox DPC-7500 – everything you need to Grow BIG! Visit www.indoorgardenexpo.com for all of the latest updates on the 2009/2010 Indoor Gardening expo tour dates. Add Orlando (November 7-8) to your calendar and Montreal (anticipated spring 2010).

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MAXIMUM YIELD USA - October 2009