tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64375055673978916032024-03-21T13:25:33.948-07:00Healthy HydroponicsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-45441221117745742982010-05-02T14:16:00.000-07:002010-05-02T14:19:22.830-07:00pH Testing in Hydroponics Explained<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">pH</span> Testing invokes this image of a mad horticulturalist muttering an arcane ritual over a set of vials when nothing could be further from the truth. pH testing is simple and easy to understand. </p><p class="Normal"> First off – what is pH? It stands for the rather cumbersome <span class="Normal__Char"><b>potentiometric hydrogen ion concentration. </b></span>Simply put, it is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The pH scale is from 0-14 and pure water has a neutral pH of 7. Anything that would be considered acidic is rated lower than 7 and anything considered alkaline is rated higher than 7. Pretty simple.</p><p class="Normal"> How does this affect my <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/">hydroponic system</a> and why test for pH? Well, different plants require different pH to get optimal growth. Testing your growing solution allows you to correct any imbalances in allowing you to grow bigger and better plants. It is one of the simplest and least technical ways to increase your produce yields and plant size. Think of it as part of providing the best home for the roots of your plants – allowing them to feed at the best rate possible. Always add the nutrients to the water before checking and adjusting the pH of your solution. Should your pH level go too high or too low the nutrients in your system will settle out – leading to deficiency and death. </p><p class="Normal"> The simplest and least expensive way to test water pH is paper test strips. The strips, which have a pH sensitive dye on them, change colour when dipped into your nutrient solution. You compare the colour on the strip to a colour chart to determine the Ph level. Nothing complicated about that. The only down side is that the strips can be hard to read because the colour differences can be subtle.</p><p class="Normal_0020_0028Web_0029"><span class="Normal_0020_0028Web_0029__Char">The most popular method to check pH</span> is liquid test kits. The liquid test kits work by adding a few drops of pH sensitive dye to a small amount of the nutrient solution your hydroponic system uses and comparing the colour with a colour chart. These kits are a bit more expensive than the paper strip tests but are much easier to read and are extremely accurate and reliable.</p><p class="Normal_0020_0028Web_0029">For the technologically gifted, the most high-tech way to check pH is to use the digital meters. They come in a huge array of sizes and prices. The digital pen style meter is the most popular. Just simply dip the electrode into the nutrient solution for a few moments and the pH value is displayed on an LCD screen. They are very handy and easy to use. Digital meters usually need to be calibrated frequently, as the meters can drift and you must check the calibration often to insure accuracy. Most pens also require the tips to be stored in a buffer or electrode storage solution and have a reputation of breaking down without warning.</p><p class="Normal_0020_0028Web_0029">The major requirement of pH testing asks you to be able to compare colours – making the pH of nutrient solution component of your hydroponic system easy for you to understand and maintain. No mad horticulturalist and certainly no arcane rituals needed.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-89824941473828034062010-05-01T10:51:00.000-07:002010-05-01T10:56:12.498-07:00The Importance of Ventilation in Hydroponics<p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Fresh air is at the </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >centre</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > o</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >f successful indoor gardening</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Outside</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >, air is abundant and almost always fresh. C02 </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >levels </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >in the air over a field of rapidly growing vegetation</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > will vary on how still the air is</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Being </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >outdoors, and subject to the warming and cooling of the day,</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > the wind blows in fresh air. Rain </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >will </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >c</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >leanse</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > the air </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >of</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > dust and pollutants. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >The outdoor environment</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > is always moving. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Plants </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >grown indoors</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > do not have</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > the natural balance that is present out of doors</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > and</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > must be achieved indoors by way of fresh air ventilation or CO2 enrichment.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >So you have decided to add CO2 to your hydroponic systems. Great! Welcome to the wonderful world of bigger yields. Now having said that, there is a caveat – like all good things – there can be some events to watch out for. For our purposes we will be dealing with the increases of humidity in a CO2 enriched environment.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Now what is humidity? Simply put – humidity is the water vapor present in the air.<br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >There are various devices used to measure and regulate humidity called psychrometer</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >s</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > or hygrometer</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >s</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >. You can regulate the humidity of a room with humidistat a variety of tools in your growing arsenal. These are comparable a thermometer and thermostat for temperature control.</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > You can find from most retail outlets combination hygrometer/thermometer unit – we recommend looking for a quality wireless unit for ease of placement.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >The humidity level should be in the range of 40-</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >75</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >%</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > when your lights are on</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > which can be measured with a hygrometer. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Now the</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > warme</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >r the air, the more</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > retain</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >ed water- this </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >means humidity levels can easily go beyond the recommended 40-</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >75</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >%.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >High</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > humidity</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > like this</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > coupled with lower nighttime temperatures</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > (a requirement to get plants like orchids to bloom) </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >can cause condensation to form on leaves. Which means your hydroponic system would be a prime candidate for all sorts of fungus issues, like powdery mildew.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >I</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >nadequate ventilation is the</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > primary</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > cause of most fungal diseases</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >How </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >do</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > you prevent this?</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Ventilation fans – both intake and outtake- help</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > regulate temperature, CO2 levels and relative humidity. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >During</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > the winter months, you're more likely to need a ventilation fan</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > for dehumidification </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >rather than reducing temperature. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >A</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >ir is not exchanged as frequently in winter, so plants naturally raise humidity without air being </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >exhausted. </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Fans</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > at too high a setting </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >combined with </span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >high heat can lead to lower humidity levels as well – find the balance for your hydroponic system and it will take care of itself.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Blowers</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >These remove heat, which accumulates rapidly in indoor growing situations. Excess heat can result in excess humidity as the air retains for water. By pulling air in the side of the blower and pumping it out the front. For mounting on a wall or inside a grow box units have a flange on the front. Some feature a round inlet flange for connecting ducting so you can pull air from another room.</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >Keep</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" > fresh air flowing, and watch your indoor garden grow</span><span style=";font-family:'times new roman';font-size:130%;" >!</span></p><p style="margin: 0pt;"> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-82162260233990731282010-04-30T16:12:00.000-07:002010-04-30T16:14:06.623-07:00Hydroponics in the Home for Seniors<p class="Normal"> Imagine being retired. No daily grind of the 9 to 5. Now imagine being in a retirement home. Do you have images of a regimented, somewhat institutional environment? Now imagine being in that type setting growing strawberries or roses or fresh herbs? Seems impossible or contradictory? It is entirely possible with Hydroponic Gardening.</p><p class="Normal"> Thinking of Elder Care and the quality of life in those years which we common refer to as the Golden Years, you cannot overlook the importance of the value of continued self reliance. These are people, just like you, who for the vast majority of their lives have made decisions regarding day to day activities placed in an environment where this capacity is limited. </p><p class="Normal"> Hydroponic gardening allows for personal choice and decision making. As studies have shown, it can be a tool to assist the improvement of the quality of life as well as the immediate environment. The Eden Care program is a great example of this. For the maintaining of self reliance and mental functioning, this method of gardening cannot be dismissed. Being able to pour over seed and equipment catalogues and dreaming of the results is not just limited to the younger mind.</p><p class="Normal"> Imagine being able to grow fresh food for your enjoyment, flowers for your pleasure and the tinkering involved with the minimal maintenance and the planning for the improvement of hydroponic systems. Starting small with container growing – such as herbs in a window and then more complex systems as the understanding of what is possible happens. As hydroponic systems do not require bare earth, but can be set up and maintained in just about any extra space- with or without natural light, it seems a perfect match of form and function to re-involve those inhabiting institutions with the natural world.</p><p class="Normal"> The capabilities of the style of gardening can be tailored to any scale or environment- from something as small as a cup to as large a scale as a greenhouse making decidedly urban environments where space it at a premium a non-issue. The placement can be adjusted to the height and range of movement capabilities of anyone. Hydroponic gardening is also not limited by seasonal requirements- you can grow all year round. These hydroponic systems can be made from recycled material or purchased from reputable suppliers all depending on the complexity and scale of what hydroponic system you choose to develop. The choice is yours.</p><p class="Normal"> There is an almost infinite combination of styles and methodologies regarding hydroponic systems that can be used in such institutional settings. In our opinion, the benefits of such practices are beyond measure. Many universities and horticultural organizations have in depth and detailed information available for you. These sources of information are available online or from your local libraries. Explore, discover and learn – after all - retirement living is all about living first.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-84594407236602397142010-04-29T14:00:00.000-07:002010-04-29T14:04:12.300-07:00Hydroponic Systems - No Soil? No Problem!<p class="Normal"> <span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">What makes hydroponic system</span></span><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">s different from traditional in-ground gardening is a soil-less growing medium. No dirt! All plants require support, to be held up. This basic requirement is dealt with by soil-less growing mediums which are inert, mostly non-organic materials. Non- organic refers to the medium not being derived from living organisms (unlike soil- which is). There is a perplexing jumble of growing mediums available. Generally speaking, these mediums are porous, light, and coarse, allowing oxygen and nutrients easy access to the plants roots. Some of the most common are:</span></span></p><p class="Normal"> <span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Coconut coir</span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">This is produced from the husk that surrounds the coconut shell. </span></span><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Made up of millions of tiny micro-sponges, it can absorb and hold up to eight times its weight in water. It lasting three times as long as peat moss so is fairly sturdy. It is also called palm peat, coco, or just coir. Some of the advantages are better water retention and aeration. The disadvantages of coconut coir are its breakdown after several uses and some drainage issues. It is often mixed with other media to improve drainage in hydroponic systems.</span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">L.E.C.A / Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate</span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">This is clay which has been heated under high temperatures until it puffs up. It makes a very coarse medium as the clay balls are about 1/4" across. Superb drainage, holds moisture, stays put and is reusable after sterilization are just some of the advantages of this medium. On the downside it doesn’t hold moisture as well as mediums like coconut coir and can be more costly.</span></span><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Perlite</span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Glass flakes (Silica) are heated until it expands producing what we know as perlite. These tiny nodules hold water well and provide drainage. A common medium due to its low density (have you ever picked up a large bag of Perlite – it weighs almost nothing) and somewhat low cost. Its advantages are its reusability and low cost, not to mentioning it’s lightweight. That being said it cannot be used alone for ebb & flow hydroponic systems, it will float away or move during flooding cycles.</span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Rockwool </span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="norm__Char"><span class="norm__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Fibers spun from melted Basaltic rock. A binder is added to the fibers and they are compressed and cured into large slabs. The density of this growing medium can be adjusted by changes in the amount of pressure during production. Large slabs are cut into smaller slabs and propagation blocks for easy handling. Advantages of this medium are the ease of handling, convenience, better control over nutrition, being able to plant seeds in it and allow the plants to be very stable. The drawbacks are that all rockwool is not the same. Some are produced from slag left over from smelting operations and as such have a high proportion of metals which can be somewhat reactive with your nutrient solutions. Rockwool can also have mineral oils present and may contain wetting agents used to counteract this that will wash out over time.</span></span></span></p><p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><span style="font-size:100%;">Much more information regarding these mediums is available from other sources, this basic summary of common growing mediums used by hydroponic systems touches lightly on the subject. Vive la difference!</span></span></p>Check out more information about <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTUvk7_7cO4">hydroponics systems</a> or <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-380/hydroponic_systems.html">in home gardens</a> at my website. It's a site dedicated to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTUvk7_7cO4">hydroponics</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-82189815025638112942009-08-07T19:05:00.000-07:002009-08-07T19:25:18.060-07:00Plant Indoors under Grow LightsIn tough times of the past, people have looked to ways to provide for their families. One of those ways was through growing their own vegetables, fruits and herbs. The "Victory Garden" came into being during World War II and times of food rationing. Today, many people are looking for easy ways to grow delicious, wholesome food and this can be done through indoor gardening. <br /><br />A very successful gardening method is hydroponics, requiring no soil at all in order to grow wonderful foods. With this type of indoor gardening systems, you will need appropriate <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-391/grow_lights_bulbs.html">grow lights</a> in order for the plants to thrive.<br /><br />Plants need light in order to perform photosynthesis, whereby the plant converts light to energy. This energy is what makes the plant to grow, mature and reproduce. The key to good photosynthesis in indoor gardening situations is having ample light available to all plants. Without enough lighting, the growing plants will struggle to reach the available light and will become spindly and weak.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-33471735828098936612009-08-06T17:59:00.000-07:002009-08-06T18:08:44.692-07:00Automated Hydroponics Systems<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioaXSNHee4cJbgP-MJwNLGKR0YVJHq4I6wzZk0l3FDXRtrtzWg2xZZ0db8nmpW_vH0lCVF6yOEyFH8phdnOUxwqOTt7DBjXVTJh_V7b0C9wy82fMqT1_Mh18tFkoNdvHKkzJCm7cMZS7f7/s1600-h/ph_digi_tester.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 88px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioaXSNHee4cJbgP-MJwNLGKR0YVJHq4I6wzZk0l3FDXRtrtzWg2xZZ0db8nmpW_vH0lCVF6yOEyFH8phdnOUxwqOTt7DBjXVTJh_V7b0C9wy82fMqT1_Mh18tFkoNdvHKkzJCm7cMZS7f7/s200/ph_digi_tester.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367022523062221330" /></a><br />Quite a few gardeners are now adapting automated hydroponics systems to their indoor gardens. These automated hydroponics systems are capable of monitoring and adjusting your water levels automatically. This means your plants will never run out of water. <br /><br />At the same time the <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-390/measuring_and_testing.html">pH levels</a> are also monitored. When the pH levels are skewed, a pump is activated to automatically adjust levels up and down. This results in your plants always having the optimum amount of water and nutrients at the proper pH level. This will keep the plants growing at their peak performance. Automated hydroponics gardening is changing the way indoor growers produce their organic vegetables and fruits.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-30490986442120755282009-08-05T17:15:00.000-07:002009-08-05T17:29:11.572-07:00Grow your own Vegetables and Fruit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_HRAuI7ngnJuy1Gm-6vOLwZIFEOe96v5jpNGw59F_MU0VXZnlU5S7Z13_Csp6VslN6CPALjaS1X0YSnwrZRkHJ4hs9KtBTft6RB4mYCH8X-dJOZxDZmcVDfaR26P4JnXolBYJOMDfIEB/s1600-h/peppers_small.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 151px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_HRAuI7ngnJuy1Gm-6vOLwZIFEOe96v5jpNGw59F_MU0VXZnlU5S7Z13_Csp6VslN6CPALjaS1X0YSnwrZRkHJ4hs9KtBTft6RB4mYCH8X-dJOZxDZmcVDfaR26P4JnXolBYJOMDfIEB/s200/peppers_small.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366641179154347250" /></a><br />Have you ever been disgusted by the quality and the prices of the vegetables offered at the local supermarket? Has the thought of growing your own vegetables has entered your mind? Even if you have a good range of vegetables at reasonable prices at your local store,the ever increasing concern over the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers gives can give one pause to consider opting for growing their own vegetables. <br /><br />Growing your own vegetables indoors does not involve a tremendous amount of effort and in addition to enjoying a supply of fresh produce, you also discover a relaxing hobby. Even if you happen to live on an upper floor of an apartment building you can still grow a range of vegetables and fruits in <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-384/hydroponic_gardens_ready_to_grow.html">hydroponics</a> on your balcony or patio. This is a hobby everyone can enjoy.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-24778534413481094242009-08-04T19:13:00.000-07:002009-08-04T19:24:22.367-07:00Simple Hydroponics<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOwhLf8nGPy3owLVzzcdvA8JsaOyCJnav25NtCSfmsfdVTCzGmM9vPQLjzhlxZFSbfDLaQiFEQQSOMJE36NNh9OkqhE7SLV4ZUIjgn3-PBRuwqNWVRTJVM_hemoA0sOxo5QfrlwK_awzb/s1600-h/HPSflower.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 86px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOwhLf8nGPy3owLVzzcdvA8JsaOyCJnav25NtCSfmsfdVTCzGmM9vPQLjzhlxZFSbfDLaQiFEQQSOMJE36NNh9OkqhE7SLV4ZUIjgn3-PBRuwqNWVRTJVM_hemoA0sOxo5QfrlwK_awzb/s200/HPSflower.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366299849430268898" /></a><br />What if hydroponic gardening was as simple as a bucket of sand with a single plant in it? This can be what it is, right up to a hydroponic system using measuring instruments to control water cycles, nutrient strengths and lighting times. <br /><br />A system usually consists of these basic parts: a growing tray, a tank or reservoir, a timed submersible pump to irrigate the plants and an air stone and pump to oxygenate the nutrient solution. Light will of course be required and that can be natural or artificial. There are many different types <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-391/grow_lights_bulbs.html">lights</a> to choose from, from fluorescent to LED to complete lighting kits.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-63821415717914503582009-08-02T22:03:00.000-07:002009-08-02T22:11:20.949-07:00Light up your clones<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKJQ6sRMkfFZmJc4ovUmvpVDAV7oBUBSzkclBLOw_z4Bet4brEyfWDSTCecYTtNg6lcjTLs30lQ3l8m3OIr3YRMNrcE0N8Cp_LL_2QShunD6TzTqSF1NnwtSjCJiqhvV0S0bNYPE6gmxw/s1600-h/clones.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 80px; height: 80px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKJQ6sRMkfFZmJc4ovUmvpVDAV7oBUBSzkclBLOw_z4Bet4brEyfWDSTCecYTtNg6lcjTLs30lQ3l8m3OIr3YRMNrcE0N8Cp_LL_2QShunD6TzTqSF1NnwtSjCJiqhvV0S0bNYPE6gmxw/s200/clones.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365600104921358386" /></a><br />Unlike seedlings, clones need <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-391/grow_lights_bulbs.html">light</a> from day one, after rooting. Start with lower and diffused light intensities from sources such as T-5 or T-8 fluorescent lighting. During the first few days, the cuttings will do best with just one to two 24 watt strips over the top of a standard 10" x 20" propagation tray.<br /><br />You can gradually increase the light intensity after a few days by lowering the light fixtures closer to the propagation dome. However, make certain the temperature doesn't rise above 850 F inside the dome after making this adjustment.<br /><br />Once the roots develop, you can switch to HID lights that provide mostly red and blue growth stimulating spectrums. Condition your plants to this more intense light by gradually decreasing the distance between the plants and light fixtures. After a couple of weeks, your plants should be able to handle very bright levels of light which will encourage healthy, robust and fast-growing plants.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-56891958955725999922009-08-01T21:37:00.000-07:002009-08-01T21:47:45.863-07:00Which type of Rock Wool to choose<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-gjiXR88DzWm2QrBWf5x4VDIF72fw6p8nS9UlxFaxweRxMaW5SRAuXSWZOOVnhPar36RezifrW23T9qhpgsqd0RcaSwUdzfjcI7O5gd7nHU59Ul1KAH38fu25k7aPmCzwKQmpWt9wrOV/s1600-h/cubes.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 189px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-gjiXR88DzWm2QrBWf5x4VDIF72fw6p8nS9UlxFaxweRxMaW5SRAuXSWZOOVnhPar36RezifrW23T9qhpgsqd0RcaSwUdzfjcI7O5gd7nHU59Ul1KAH38fu25k7aPmCzwKQmpWt9wrOV/s200/cubes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365223517361267842" /></a><br />There are several types of Rock Wool designed for the propagation of seeds and cuttings. The best for hydroponic hobbyists is considered to be the Single Block System known as SBS. This system consists of small individual cubes or mini blocks of <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1235/grodan_rockwool_grow_cubes.html">Rock Wool</a> on a small plastic tray. This makes the plants easy to handle and are ideal for selling or giving away.<br /><br />Be certain to pre-treat the rock wool for 24 hours before use. Use a product that will<br />reduce the alkaline nature of the media until it balances out at between 5.8 and 6.3. One advantage of Rock Wool is its ability to hold enough water to last through the average period of time required for the cuttings to root. However, you will need to use a humidity dome.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-72927261416004631042009-07-31T21:47:00.000-07:002009-07-31T21:53:28.940-07:00Enjoy the convenience of organic products in a re-circulating systemRe-circulating systems are a convenience but some growers feel they are restricted to using conventional salt based nutrients. Thus, they miss out on the rewards associated with organics. Here is how to use <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-389/organic_fertilizers.html">organics</a> in a re-circulating system.<br /><br />Reduce your conventional salt based nutrient to a 70% concentration. Then add an organic base nutrient at 30% the recommended strength.<br /><br />The addition of the organic nutrient will help stabilize the solution chemistry while buffering the salinity and pH value of the synthetic based nutrient in the root zone and growing media. Also, the additional building blocks supplied by the organic base nutrient will increase yields, crop health, flavor, aroma and essential oil production.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-51741274312580832022009-07-30T17:15:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:31:29.303-07:00Mini Caddy Hydroponics System<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxIhj-JX6w6pJJKqJCPoNkq_xj7s8TnR9GOWPuikjJimr65qlzKMni0dnwRpRPFmj9IpD2MIz6kZE0pIbb3PT3B7Pie0bLDWXXBjbF_IeWMSRcpQY0Na02nsiNWEYCU0b0lK6nBoHlZP35/s1600-h/mcaddysm_small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxIhj-JX6w6pJJKqJCPoNkq_xj7s8TnR9GOWPuikjJimr65qlzKMni0dnwRpRPFmj9IpD2MIz6kZE0pIbb3PT3B7Pie0bLDWXXBjbF_IeWMSRcpQY0Na02nsiNWEYCU0b0lK6nBoHlZP35/s200/mcaddysm_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364413295269104786" /></a><br />Do you have a spare closet? Introducing the "Mini Caddy", the ultimate compact home hydroponics system. Terrific for confined spaces.<br /><br />The Mini Caddy is small enough to fit in any closet and is ideal when space is a concern. The inline cooling system keeps the inside of the cab always under 5ºF above room temperature. With this cabinet your growing will be easy, high yielding and above all, safe. The Mini Caddy arrives pre-assembled and requires less than 15 minutes of setup time to start growing. This affordable hydroponics system is perfect for experts and beginners alike.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-21837545179633443042009-07-28T18:11:00.000-07:002009-07-28T18:21:04.317-07:00Light vs temperature to keep plants cool<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfM9ZVPfMUq5TVYgmhoBKf9v1RjDtImuoTbKTThkWLG75ybVHBotveJkmncMMxfVF-8l1QTcVWMJOH_p4oVamceTAUadP1nYeGp0KoCz1U1oAAZZOLCvzfGSw3bDttqQ30BFB4UV-qoT0/s1600-h/MHVEGPIC_small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 91px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfM9ZVPfMUq5TVYgmhoBKf9v1RjDtImuoTbKTThkWLG75ybVHBotveJkmncMMxfVF-8l1QTcVWMJOH_p4oVamceTAUadP1nYeGp0KoCz1U1oAAZZOLCvzfGSw3bDttqQ30BFB4UV-qoT0/s200/MHVEGPIC_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363685674052239842" /></a><br />During the summer months, you may need to make a compromise between light levels and the optimal temperatures for your plants. Otherwise you could end up over- heating the tops.<br /><br />Your HID (high intensity discharge)lights will also contribute to high temperatures. This creates high heat in both the growing area and the internal core of your plants.<br /><br />By raising the <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-391/grow_lights_bulbs.html">lights</a> a few inches you can help reduce some of the heat stress on the<br />plants. This slight loss of light will do much less harm than the heat.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-80340928809088368662009-07-27T17:53:00.000-07:002009-07-27T18:02:46.852-07:00When to water... more or less<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDxClQscTnJkUZi-2Bk9WFscQVCcH77lwIDiJk9KLlH4l141RsckxfoVzfBjgFjrdDrXl8sMaB5ujuIyGc1cyVzBs1norOOIiwIIz2W23VXMyrduuzKIJIV5hyOivHKMJL1xA4hTj3gAK/s1600-h/Jul15+002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDxClQscTnJkUZi-2Bk9WFscQVCcH77lwIDiJk9KLlH4l141RsckxfoVzfBjgFjrdDrXl8sMaB5ujuIyGc1cyVzBs1norOOIiwIIz2W23VXMyrduuzKIJIV5hyOivHKMJL1xA4hTj3gAK/s200/Jul15+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363309241362937330" /></a> When to water and how much has always been something of a guess. Generally speaking, plants begin gradually using more water at the start of their <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1293/earth_juice_bloom.html">flowering</a> cycle. Peak water consumption comes just after mid-flowering. After that, water needs taper off. <br /><br />During the ripening phase, water use is lessened even though the plants are at their largest mass. It's easy to over-water during this phase so be careful not to drown the<br />roots.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-53168780023512608952009-07-25T18:01:00.000-07:002009-07-25T18:11:39.667-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3XS1Yzu7KRQWvMJy0yf6XrPuR4w4S_olxA3cmft4-WvIfAs4vCUYpX_odCnUKVf5HdR80PL0RyzBRlgJm4Y8lfeM4nCrJs73Md0q08S2qYzXaGzqa7ydffrIp4PfYCbudA0364omKsLs/s1600-h/Jul24.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3XS1Yzu7KRQWvMJy0yf6XrPuR4w4S_olxA3cmft4-WvIfAs4vCUYpX_odCnUKVf5HdR80PL0RyzBRlgJm4Y8lfeM4nCrJs73Md0q08S2qYzXaGzqa7ydffrIp4PfYCbudA0364omKsLs/s200/Jul24.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362569748508787922" /></a><br />Most self-help studies stress the need to create a perfect environment to be able to live a "successful" life. From the most famous celebrities to the most celebrated politicians and all of us mere mortals in between. To be truly happy, therefore, one needs to be fulfilled and so our environment is crucial for us to be are able to share and give to our fellow humans.<br /><br />Whether it's a city street, a rural farm or a Hollywood stage, finding the environment that suits your character can be a lifelong search, so the journey must be enjoyed.<br /><br />Get in touch with nature and re-assure yourself that the natural world will carry on no matter what. Draw from the creativity of a <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1224/homegarden.html">flower growing</a>, a vegetable being formed, insects oblivious to what's on TV tonight, and water flowing over naturally formed rocks.<br /><br />Try an experiment... spend a full half hour or more alone in a forest or next to the sea or, failing that, a park where you won't be disturbed. Make sure you feel safe from wild animals and humans and just let your mind wander, allow your thoughts to flow freely. Call it meditation time if you need an excuse to spend some time on your own. Just enjoy and allow your thoughts to wander free and your imagination to leap into fantasies.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-36191468025972413622009-07-24T15:24:00.000-07:002009-07-24T15:29:11.724-07:00Benefits of a Grow Chamber<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7WPetBx6izUSq9Z6jkXlxSQESsjEGL7IrmyhdYTlqQSTq2mPpzbFXED7XT7qDWCUD2Wmh0CUR7rzVrzi4CynxVECbmQ10RAi5sOAqh82fmT-ppd6haPOdNGNYNXH7XTAvqyOusC8ciXe/s1600-h/side2side_lg.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 98px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7WPetBx6izUSq9Z6jkXlxSQESsjEGL7IrmyhdYTlqQSTq2mPpzbFXED7XT7qDWCUD2Wmh0CUR7rzVrzi4CynxVECbmQ10RAi5sOAqh82fmT-ppd6haPOdNGNYNXH7XTAvqyOusC8ciXe/s200/side2side_lg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362157148581731794" /></a><br />Technically, grow chambers are not classified as a hydroponics growing technique. It's actually a housing or a container for the hydroponics system, accessories and lighting fixture.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1361/side2side.html">Grow chambers</a> are perfect for the home grower because the system is enclosed, putting everything in one container and out of view. Of course, keeping your grow space nice and neat is only one of the many benefits a grow chamber offers.<br /><br />Some systems are approximately the size of a refrigerator allowing you to grow your plants in one side of the chamber and mother plant with clones in the other. Grow chambers varies in size. <br /><br />Most systems are built with a reflective interior to efficiently distribute light and increase the amount of lumens reaching the plants, resulting in a higher yield.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-9153813509216741122009-07-23T16:19:00.000-07:002009-07-23T16:26:21.500-07:00Not enough Soil for a Garden?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjESrstdDH0XVnjthsieWmYtnjAG7Bf27IbmIwykV4S1Fa5bHPCI_mlZRTbZmYmcCi9NhiVSI_7JGx-yr1vGiS9nNT8ZzXPzEyYoIGUTi04awgUMX6GS3P2Tzg8eGmbbY8jtPrFncYa6vw/s1600-h/100_0657_lge.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjESrstdDH0XVnjthsieWmYtnjAG7Bf27IbmIwykV4S1Fa5bHPCI_mlZRTbZmYmcCi9NhiVSI_7JGx-yr1vGiS9nNT8ZzXPzEyYoIGUTi04awgUMX6GS3P2Tzg8eGmbbY8jtPrFncYa6vw/s200/100_0657_lge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361800941414887154" /></a><br />Hydroponics gardening is a great idea for anyone who wants a garden but doesn't have enough land or soil. Hydroponics gardening is, essentially, a way to cultivate plants using a nutrient solution instead of soil. With hydroponics gardening, it's easy to grow lovely flowers and succulent vegetables virtually anywhere you want! It's true that hydroponics gardening needs much less time than an ordinary garden. In fact, you might spend only five minutes a day maintaining you're hydroponics garden. Once a month the nutrient solution will have to be changed but this will only take a few minutes. <br /><br />While hydroponics gardening can be a little confusing sometimes when starting out, you'll soon get the jist of it. The same as you need gardening supplies for a ordinary garden, you'll need <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/">hydroponics supplies</a> for your hydroponics garden. The most popular system is the passive system. This is where the plants sit directly in the nutrient solution. All passive air systems use an aquarium air bubbler otherwise the solution can become deoxygenated and could rot the plants. If you can find the right system for you, hydroponics gardening will provide you with all the flowers and vegetables you could possibly want.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-28802039193074164322009-07-22T16:33:00.000-07:002009-07-22T16:44:22.786-07:00A Summertime Warning<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0Gj5v9klrtvXjx59iZhh7iOsLIsSbC9Z8HsmAXQFzvdzdyy-SnQrIORZrUYVUIW_SdkmlPL-rcdqfJNs555BGAzxlwHATAXgRXvCsuTEJxj04Os_jCbQO0BZ-dlYOqd-PnetAzDt2opQ/s1600-h/10747962543Photo_2004-01-22.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0Gj5v9klrtvXjx59iZhh7iOsLIsSbC9Z8HsmAXQFzvdzdyy-SnQrIORZrUYVUIW_SdkmlPL-rcdqfJNs555BGAzxlwHATAXgRXvCsuTEJxj04Os_jCbQO0BZ-dlYOqd-PnetAzDt2opQ/s200/10747962543Photo_2004-01-22.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361434457740939602" /></a><br />If the roots of your container plants are sitting in warm water, they may become<br />susceptible to contracting pathogens that lead to root rot. How do you prevent this?<br />Here are several <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-389/organic_fertilizers.html">suggestions</a>:<br /><br />First make certain that your containers are well drained.<br /><br />Next, add an enzyme product to your nutrient mix. Buy quality. You want plenty of live enzyme action that will quickly break down older decaying roots, turning them into valuable food sources. Too many inexpensive enzyme products contain only dead<br />enzymes or the shelf life is so short that by the time you buy the product the enzymes are all but useless.<br /><br />Remember, root decay is a normal part of the root growth cycle. You can't avoid it. But you can make certain that the decayed materials are turned into a valuable food source through enzyme action.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-23323515674793489182009-07-21T18:45:00.000-07:002009-07-21T18:56:25.160-07:00Increase your Root Mass<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Hhq40hoYAR1LK8XrvveHG9Ci29idPLN9WY6tnQYfC8dOHF02vM2pcrNil7GPLazzowYVGDrAxqgSH3n0tFcD_V_3dsQve_a0RvwrEIpmNu4mYJZmglJWdN6_TcanynxttjwvO-Xn2nil/s1600-h/iStock_000000323813Small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Hhq40hoYAR1LK8XrvveHG9Ci29idPLN9WY6tnQYfC8dOHF02vM2pcrNil7GPLazzowYVGDrAxqgSH3n0tFcD_V_3dsQve_a0RvwrEIpmNu4mYJZmglJWdN6_TcanynxttjwvO-Xn2nil/s200/iStock_000000323813Small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361096713556244274" /></a>Obviously, the bigger a plant's root mass the better it can absorb <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1347/moon_dust.html">nutrients</a> and water. But how do you encourage extra root growth?<br /><br />There are a number of products on the market that are formulated to increase the size of a plant's root mass. Some of the best can provide a root increase up to 700%. Here are some things to look for when buying these products:<br /><br />Search for products containing super strains of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR). When this product is combined with bacterial and fungi inoculates, it can provide almost magical root and plant development.<br /><br />The inoculates you want to add to your media are trichoderma, endomycorrhizal and ectomycorrhizal fungi. You may have to buy two different products to get a full range of inoculates. For example, some products contain 8 species of trichoderma and others have 18 species of endomycorrhizal.<br /><br />These are living organisms so be certain to buy quality products that are relatively fresh. When applied to your media, they will colonize both inside and outside your plant roots, making them stronger and healthier. (voodoo juice, piranha, tarantula)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-82994657332373018222009-07-20T21:11:00.000-07:002009-07-20T21:15:08.362-07:00Clones from Clones?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItZFQQ2fd5Zkv3pwkmeUVzTgR9W08zmQdQDGSpJv2EU7WDz-kATuuEix0Bc5zI_4BhUn6BYyKvlrgAvAAsq2fg3gEQwLLJHZ3V4g-kvPdIG9WXQG29TTV8LxcYiDG1a-D6-Kw9oky3hNc/s1600-h/cloner-caddy_small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItZFQQ2fd5Zkv3pwkmeUVzTgR9W08zmQdQDGSpJv2EU7WDz-kATuuEix0Bc5zI_4BhUn6BYyKvlrgAvAAsq2fg3gEQwLLJHZ3V4g-kvPdIG9WXQG29TTV8LxcYiDG1a-D6-Kw9oky3hNc/s200/cloner-caddy_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360762109011484562" /></a><br />There are two things to consider when <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-385/plant_cuttings_cloning_systems.html">cloning plants</a>, particularly if you want to preserve the genetic characteristics for future crops. These are genotype and phenotype.<br /><br />Genotype is the genetic make-up (DNA) of the plant, which is quite stable. Only in rare instances will genes tend to mutate, thus creating a slight variation.<br /><br />The phenotype is the physical expression of a plant's DNA and may change under<br />different environmental influences. For example, the same genes grown in two different rooms may be similar but could appear slightly different in the finished product.<br /><br />As long as you maintain a consistent environment and avoid a prolonged stress on a<br />mother plant or clone, a clone from a clone should remain very much like the original. However, it's often a good idea to start new mother plants from seed every few years. This helps maintain higher levels of vigor. Stuff can happen to plants after being grown for several years.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-67180977512873777172009-07-18T18:25:00.000-07:002009-07-18T18:32:40.992-07:00When NOT to use organic teas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTirGNZu1IJXyVgWiavPBsbrTEZ6zzVicdgkuhGnPTZNUhxey8oMJwHtWN-2NRUrdp_SAfdzfLcWH_IKKT5D-SRyAuJtYqkPrm7vFv-G7f7tCnw7cgS2BTC8A1K6Hdri1PrVCQREljTha/s1600-h/tea.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 114px; height: 76px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTirGNZu1IJXyVgWiavPBsbrTEZ6zzVicdgkuhGnPTZNUhxey8oMJwHtWN-2NRUrdp_SAfdzfLcWH_IKKT5D-SRyAuJtYqkPrm7vFv-G7f7tCnw7cgS2BTC8A1K6Hdri1PrVCQREljTha/s200/tea.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359977855910905650" /></a> If you are using a purely water based media, such as deep water culture, it's best to avoid organic teas. A salt based fertilizer is generally preferred because it is absorbed directly into the roots.<br /><br />However, organic teas are an ideal companion for growing in media such as <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1235/grodan_rockwool_grow_cubes.html">rockwool</a>, coco coir or Sure to Grow. It will provide a harmonious and fertile environment for the roots of your crop.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-38884678434141516412009-07-17T19:15:00.000-07:002009-07-17T19:23:09.849-07:00Exceptional Lighting Kit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHidxSnOogC5b-3D3LRhB-P5NWaDG3JW9YpX-Ew9iSMzwlRI-eYnX0OWhKI0OOEQs6jrRexZvDyBh83KamGKQrv70KdJ6zP53zwIR9OAijvp_FxXWqE-AYPE4p-ieDbcctFe7b5jsQj5XR/s1600-h/powerplantkitslogo1_3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHidxSnOogC5b-3D3LRhB-P5NWaDG3JW9YpX-Ew9iSMzwlRI-eYnX0OWhKI0OOEQs6jrRexZvDyBh83KamGKQrv70KdJ6zP53zwIR9OAijvp_FxXWqE-AYPE4p-ieDbcctFe7b5jsQj5XR/s200/powerplantkitslogo1_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359619706703381938" /></a><br />These “<a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-product_info/product_id-1334/power_plant_kits_600.html">Power Plant Kits</a>” are custom designed lighting systems with all of the latest horticulture technology. Rather than try to mix and match a variety of different ballasts, bulbs, and reflector from different manufacturers, they've put the best of everything into one offering.<br /><br />Each kit includes a digital ballast, 6" air cooled reflector, 2 bulbs (one MH and one HPS), a timer, 2 light mover pulleys and a video grow guide. It works on 120 volts.<br /><br />I suggest you shop around and realize what an incredible deal this kit is.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-31466616925597188102009-07-16T19:04:00.000-07:002009-07-16T19:33:25.752-07:00Hydroponic Technology<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvWc0iJ_wiCHiXBeYKCJBbJv3H-gRUUVQz7Iaf-eX_9F8y3frmNXTRXAX77IKDwweq4Su35F1cFqgoZBBQhmBzwcUgxdpGvAQB75_pBuHrrczFyC5CSQP1isu3TAV5bFGEGLdCjQqs0YU/s1600-h/iStock_000003339876Small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvWc0iJ_wiCHiXBeYKCJBbJv3H-gRUUVQz7Iaf-eX_9F8y3frmNXTRXAX77IKDwweq4Su35F1cFqgoZBBQhmBzwcUgxdpGvAQB75_pBuHrrczFyC5CSQP1isu3TAV5bFGEGLdCjQqs0YU/s200/iStock_000003339876Small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359250700915890258" /></a><br />Hydroponics is a technology for growing plants in <a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-387/hydroponic_plant_nutrients.html">nutrient solutions</a> (water and fertilizers) with or without the use of artificial medium (e.g., sand, gravel, vermiculite, rockwool, peat, coir, sawdust) to provide mechanical support. Liquid hydroponic systems have no other supporting medium for the plant roots: aggregate systems have a solid medium of support. <br /><br />Hydroponic systems are further categorized as open, where after the nutrient solution has been delivered to the plant roots, it is not reused; or closed where surplus solution is recovered, replenished, and recycled. The definition of hydroponics has been confined to liquid systems only, which blurs statistical data and leads to underestimation of the extent of the technology and its economic implications. All hydroponic systems in temperate regions of the world are enclosed in greenhouse-type structures to provide temperature control, reduce evaporative water loss, and to reduce disease and pest infestations.<br /><br /><a href="http://ag.arizona.edu/hydroponictomatoes/overview.htm">Read more...</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-66658313460936550272009-07-15T18:14:00.000-07:002009-07-15T18:20:29.110-07:00Growing in Hut or Tent<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDo7KtJ2SO-RiJFxZzA9bgvnuR9UTflDnxYqTPi9Qcr11VwLZCaOpjXyzdGp5YoiCYEzTIhc16igXSb_IUfy383gweEiDr8ytKvstBUO7VS6SzLAKvtOGZNKnS-YQYe8NHix1R_YdZ89ci/s1600-h/Deluxe-with-plants.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 151px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDo7KtJ2SO-RiJFxZzA9bgvnuR9UTflDnxYqTPi9Qcr11VwLZCaOpjXyzdGp5YoiCYEzTIhc16igXSb_IUfy383gweEiDr8ytKvstBUO7VS6SzLAKvtOGZNKnS-YQYe8NHix1R_YdZ89ci/s200/Deluxe-with-plants.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358861437290432754" /></a> Some hydroponic gardeners have a preference to keep what they’re growing in a definitive enclosed environment. If you don’t have the money to buy a hydroponic tent, you can always use an empty cupboard but you will need to make it light proof, feed in a light supply and ensure circulation of air. You may have the problem that while your plants start off fitting inside the cupboard, they might out grow it, so you will have the added complication of re-housing your plants.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hydroponicgarden.net/content-categories/cat-382/hydro_huts.html">Hydroponic tents</a> come in various sizes. They are totally light proof so you know that you won’t have a problem with light spillage from inside the tent and outside light will not intrude during necessary dark periods. Hydroponic tents can be quite expensive due to the light containing material they’re created from.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437505567397891603.post-18297315049710564962009-07-14T21:25:00.000-07:002009-07-14T21:30:56.390-07:00Grow your own Mushrooms<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbL2jwA2q6WMVvFaOfoMPwlFTBF6g6D61cc0MPSf4UxIJhhzFMfLdD5DjGgN4mRwsehTY5mpntBoQ1_-oStOs1UkvnA7UHOE6byfMsKWoWcCH_lqIYkoRO4snxMXWCvhMyaUkeK3txMCc9/s1600-h/FUNgus+Factory.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbL2jwA2q6WMVvFaOfoMPwlFTBF6g6D61cc0MPSf4UxIJhhzFMfLdD5DjGgN4mRwsehTY5mpntBoQ1_-oStOs1UkvnA7UHOE6byfMsKWoWcCH_lqIYkoRO4snxMXWCvhMyaUkeK3txMCc9/s200/FUNgus+Factory.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358539640521197122" /></a><br />Growing your own edible mushrooms has never been easier. The FUNgus Factory comes complete with everything you need to grow your own edible mushrooms indoors in any dark corner of your house.<br /><br />Each kit comes standard with enough mushroom food and supplies to grow over ONE POUND of your favorite fungus. When your kit runs dry simply order Spawn Sac replacement for unlimited growth potential.<br /><br />Don’t waste your time fighting off molds and mildews. This kit will help you see serious results in just a few short weeks.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1