The Indoor Gardener Magazine Volume 3—# 1 (July/Aug. 2007)

4THE INDOOR GARDENER VOLUME 3 – ISSUE 1

Photos: D.R

., Katholieke U

niversiteit Leuven, Canna & M

aisonneuve Eds

CREDITS

Volume 3 – Issue 1July / August 2007

Published by: Green Publications

Publisher: J.M.

Managing editor: Bruno [email protected]

Contributing editor: Helene Jutras

Art Director: Anna Kanaras

Editorial coordinator: Bruno Bredoux

Collaborators in this issue:

C. Ayotte, Kari Bayne, Eve Bettan, Pierre Bonnard, Bruno Bredoux, Brite-Lite, Jonathan D. Cardinale, L. Charnet, Jean-Pierre Daimé, Stan Daimon, B. Danny, Jean

Dionne, EcoGarden Supply, J. François, Denis J. Garand, Herb Gardner, Vertuda Green, Dave Guillemette, Paul Henderson, Helene Jutras, Rob Kelly, Roxanne LaBelle, Réjean Lafleur, Julie Mailhot, L. Murphy, Raquel Peñalosa, RoNTO, J.-F. Savard, Seer Snively, Dr. John A. A. Thomson, Patrisha Thomson, Travis Thomson, vieux bandit.

Sales & advertising: Stan [email protected]@tigmag.com

Distribution: See the list of our distributors on our website.

Translation/Copy editing: Helene Jutras, trad.a.

Cover design: Anna Kanaras, after photos by Bruno Bredoux, taken on April 9th, 2007, in California.

Illustrations: Anna Kanaras (also see credits on each page).

Administration: R. [email protected]

Information: [email protected]

THE INDOOR GARDENER MAGAZINEP.O. Box 52046, Laval, Quebec, H7P 5S1, CANADAPhone: 450-628-5325 Fax: 450-628-7758www.tigmag.comISSN: 1715-0949

© 2007, Green Publications Vertes, Laval, Qc, CanadaArticles, iconographic representations and photographs contained in this magazine cannot be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the Publisher.

Legal deposit: Second Quarter 2005. National Library of Canada. Bibliothèque nationale du Québec.

Printed in Canada by DMP Communications 2000

Conversion TableLinear Measure (imperial to metric)1 inch 2.54 centimetres1 foot (=12 inches) 0.3048 metre 1 yard (=3 feet) 0.9144 metre

Linear Measure (metric to imperial)Imperial 1 millimetre 0.0394 inch 1 centimetre (=10 mm) 0.3937 inch 1 metre (=100 cm) 1.0936 yards

Volume (imperial to metric)Metric 1 (imperial) fl. oz. (=1/20 imperial pint) 28.41 ml 1 (US liquid) fl. oz. (=1/16 US pint) 29.57 ml 1 (imperial) pint (=20 fl. imperial oz.) 568.26 ml 1 (US liquid) pint (=16 fl. US oz.) 473.18 ml 1 (imperial) gallon (=4 quarts) 4.546 litres 1 (US liquid) gallon (=4 quarts) 3.785 litres

Volume (metric to imperial)Imperial 1 millilitre 0.002 (imperial) pint, 0.176 pint 1 litre (=1000 ml) 1.76 pints

Mass (imperial to metric)1 ounce (=16 drams) 28.35 grams 1 pound (=16 ounces) 0.45359237 kilogram 1 stone (=14 pounds) 6.35 kilograms Mass (metric to imperial)Imperial 1 milligram 0.015 grain 1 kilogram (=1000 g) 2.205 pounds

Temperature To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 degrees and divide by 1.8. To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 1.8 and add 32 degrees.

ERRATA Volume 2 – Issue 5 page 14: in the note on the 2007 Luoyang, China peony exhibit, the number of visitors expected this year should have been 800,000 (and not 8 million, as indicated).

pages 56-57: the web address of the author, Didier Pol, was incorrect. His actual site is at: www.didier-pol.net.

pages 60: the name of General Hydroponics’ new product shown on this page is BioHeaven, not BioHaven as the title indicated.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

HOMAGE

5 HOMAGE: OSHUN BOILARD (1973-2007)

8 AMATEURS’ CORNER

“INSTALLING MY FIRST INDOOR GARDEN” By Pierre Bonnard and Jean-Pierre Daimé (CityPlantes)

24 67 YEARS OF SUCCESS

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DR. JOHN A. A. THOMSON, FOUNDER OF THE VITAMIN INSTITUTE AND INVENTOR OF SUPERTHRIVE™ As told to Bruno Bredoux 28 MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGE, PHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT: IMITATING... FOR LIFE! By Dave Guillemette

32 GALLERY: RIPE FRUIT / FLOWERING FRUIT-BEARING TREES By B.B., Golden Valley Seed, The Naughty Curry Project and Anthony 53

PLANT CARE: FOLIAR SPRAYING By J.-F. Savard

44 DOES YOUR BLOWER FAN HAVE AN ATMOSPHERE LOOK? By Brite-Lite and Vertuda Green

48 HORTICULTURAL LIGHTING: LGM GROW LIGHT™ SERIES AND PRO-GRO ARRAYS™ By Jonathan D. Cardinale

52 THE SEA OF GREEN METHOD IN A PERPETUAL GARDEN

By Paul Henderson

56 DISCOVERY: AS LONG AS THERE WERE FORESTS, WE COULD USE SLASH AND BURN AGRICULTURE By Bruno Bredoux

HEALTH & NUTRITION: SEASIDE AND SPA TREATMENTS IN ROMANIA

By RoNTO

66 FLORA 2007: A STROLL THROUGH THE RENEWING FLORA GARDENS WITH RAQUEL PEÑALOSA, B.L.A. By Bruno Bredoux

AND OUR USUAL FEATURES:

CREDITS AND ERRATA (4) EDITORIAL (6) NOTES & NEWS (12 TO 16) TIPS & TRICKS (18 TO 20) INDUSTRY NEWS (22-23, 31-31, 51, 54 AND 60) HYDROPONIC CLASSICS 4 (42) ORDER FORM (51) SHOPPING (62 TO 64) THE HYDROPONIC WORLD OF NORTH AMERICA (59 TO 61) Q & A (64-65)

VOLUME 3 — ISSUE 1 / JULY — AUGUST 2007

OSHUN BOILARD (1973-2007), A “BUSINESS GUY”BY BRUNO BREDOUX

Cofounder and co-President, with Michaële

Morin, of Les Produits Organiques Cinagro

based in Boucherville, Québec, Oshun

Boilard died suddenly in his sleep on May

26th, at the age of 34. In a short time, Oshun

had put his company on the map as one of

the undisputed leaders in the manufacturing

and distribution of organic biostimulants

adapted to vegetable, ornamental and

medicinal cultivation. The company’s leading products – natural small scale

produced supplements from earth worm castings – are known by gardeners

under the names Bio-Worm (or Bio-Vers) and grÜv (in three versions: rooting,

growth/transplant and fl owering).

Oshun Boilard had always wanted to work in the hydroponics industry. He owed

his fi rst job in the fi eld to Jean Dionne, from Guy Dionne Hydroponique. We

spoke to him, and he offered this testimony: “One fact I recently reminded many

people of, is that when Oshun showed up for his hiring interview at Guy Dionne

Hydroponique, right from the start, he told me: ‘Sooner rather than later, I will

have my own business.’ His mind was made up from the start. He was a business

guy, stubborn and organized, who was going to go far.” Oshun was employed

by Guy Dionne Hydroponique full time for two years, and then part-time when

he founded his company in 1999.

His training came from his father’s passion. Indeed, by participating in his

father’s compost business in Western Canada, Oshun developed his own

expertise. This allowed him to innovate in the fi eld of earth worm composts and

more particularly in the manufacturing and conditioning of concentrated worm

castings extracts. Guy Dionne Hydroponique was one of his fi rst customers:

“Very quickly, we bought his products, and they were met with enthusiasm

from our customers. His success was ongoing. Oshun was also very effi cient

when it came to marketing, from logo design to business organization, fi nding

a nice modern presentation that fi t the quality of his products. It was all part of

his multi-facetted talent”, said Jean Dionne.

He continued: “It truly is a great loss: he was on a roll, and his success was

only expanding. He had new products being developed and great projects

on the drawing board. He was always innovating. His future was only getting

brighter: chemical fertilizers are more and more controlled, and he offered

organic product lines that could replace them. Thankfully, Michaële Morin

and her employee, Réjean Lafl eur, have a defi nite will to keep on developing

Les Produits organiques Cinagro... […].“ Such is the best inheritance we could

hope for following Oshun Boilard’s passing. He leaves behind his partner, Lyne

Bertholet, his two children, Jacob and Morgane, and his two step-daughters,

Gabrielle and Catherine. We wish to offer them our most sincere sympathies

and those of our readers.

>> www.cinagro.ca

We wish to thank Jean Dionne from Guy Dionne Hydroponique and Réjean

Lafl eur from Produits organiques Cinagro for their testimony and sympathies.

Phot

o: C

inag

roTABLE OF CONTENTS


Photos: Best Coast G

rowers, Solar O

asis & Théorèm

e InnovationEDITORIAL

Water-cooled LED lamps? Really? You take us for fools, answered our most attentive readers! Indeed, a typographical mistake added the term “LED” to the title of a note in our Shopping Section in volume 2, issue 5, about water-cooled horticultural lamps. One of our readers, enticed by this new product, wrote: “Having been a quality control manager and checking references for gas turbine maintenance, I check out almost all new technologies and a water cooled LED light sounded very interesting. Too bad it was a typo.” Yes, too bad indeed!

What you must know is that, in most newspapers and press organizations, titles, introductory paragraphs and subtitles are added at the end, internally, above articles, often without ulterior submission to the journalist who first wrote the article or the note. In our enthusiasm, we added the word

“DEL” to Paul Henderson’s title, when he in fact discussed high pressure sodium lights that were water-cooled.

The confusion stems from the simultaneous release of new products in both areas (horticultural LED systems and HPS bulbs with water-cooled Pyrex jacket technology) of indoor gardening. The link provided below the article showed nothing to satisfy our readers who were interested in finding out more about this infamous fictitious LED lamp.

“I used the supplied link to view this 1000 watt watercooled LED light but the Sulekhab link does not show a 1000 watt LED light. Where did you see this light?”, wrote Joe. Nowhere, dear Joe, nowhere! Only in our wildest dreams!

Let’s recap. The Fresca Sol bulb from Best Coast Growers is truly a water-cooled high pressure sodium

bulb. Its manufacturing technology – the water-cooled Pyrex jacket technology mentioned above – allows the gardener to reduce the distance between the lamp and the plant canopy from 45 to 13 centimetres, hence multiplying by nine the amount of lumens that reach the plants while preventing any burn risk. This allows for a 5 to 10% increase of the light energy transmitted to the plant.

On the other hand, LED horticultural lighting systems are gaining ground in a market that was thus far characterized by consumer scepticism. The main advantage of LED lighting is, obviously, that LED bulbs naturally emit very little heat. So a water-cooled LED is in itself a pleonasm! We no longer need to transport and set up heavy, loud and overheated ballasts, nor to install sophisticated air extraction systems. The two most popular models are Théorème Innovation’s SmartLamp and Solar Oasis’ Pro-5. The 275 W LED system offered by Quebec-based company Théorème Innovation hence emits a true output equivalent to 600 watt with its included reflector. Its light spectrum has been specially designed for plant growth and flowering. As for the Solar Oasis model, see pages 30, 48 and 49 of this issue for more detail. The only problem, as put by one of our readers, remains the price of these products: “They aren’t bashful about what they are charging for the [mentioned] LED light arrays”.

Links:www.bestcoastgrowers.com/products/FrescaSol.htmwww.hydrodionne.com/Templates/Theoreme_an.htmlwww.led-grow-master.comwww.hydroponix.com.

Bruno BredouxThe Indoor Gardener

June 2007

PS: As you may have noticed, our printer inverted the blue and red plates on eight pages of our previous issue (May-June 2007, vol. 2, issue 6). We hereby apologize to our advertisers whose ad pages were printed in tones that were quite far from their actual products: Allie’s Wholesale/Grotek, Jardin du Futur/EcoSystem, RGG Distributing inc./Precipitator 360º, Biofloral/Nutri+ and BGWS/Sunleaves. We are now reaching an agreement on how to remedy this problem with our printer and will contact all advertisers involved as soon as an agreement is reached. Thank you for your understanding.

– The Editors

No Such Thing!

Fresca Sol bulb

Solar Oasis’ Pro-5

Théorème Innovation’s SmartLamp

BESTCOASTGROW

ERS

• The most versatileLIGHT STAND ANDGROW RACKever made!

• Works great forgreenhouses andindoor hydroponicssystems.

• Strong, light weightALUMINUMCONSTRUCTION

• Quick & easy set-up

• The FRESCA SOL WATER-COOLED LIGHTHOUSING is dependable. TheWATER COOLED PYREXJACKET Technologyremoves 93% of the heat from your HPS Bulb.

• Reduce the distancebetween your light and plants from 18” TO 5”dramatically INCREASING THE LUMENSreaching your plants by 9 times!

• increase the percent of relevant energy 5% to 10%

1 (800) 827-18761 (619) 565-1442www.BestCoastGrowers.comvsspectral range in nanometers spectral range in nanometers

Spectral Distribution for EYEW1000B/HTL/ENWITH THE FRESCO SOL

Spectral Distribution for EYEW1000B/HTL/EN

Percent

of

rela

tive energy

Percent

of

rela

tive energy

Based on by energy tests by Lighting Sciences Inc.

™

Your Plants love Lumens, Let them get up close & personal...without getting burned!

TheCOMPLETELYADJUSTABLE

NO HOLES BAR makes

gardeningeasy!


Photos: CityPlantesINTRODUCTION

You like plants and you enjoy creating a natural-looking environment in your apartment, on your balcony or terrace... The environment offered to city plants is, however, limiting: small dirt volume, dry air caused by heating, lowered lighting... It’s not easy to get luxuriant plants!

a) How to Solve the Eternal Question: “When Do I Water?” Use Gardex substrate (a mixture of vermiculite, perlite and mineral wool made by Efi sol – order it on www.efi sol.fr, www.cityplantes.com, www.sibli.be/fr or www.sibli.be/nl) and replace your pot’s dirt with this stunning substrate: it cannot be over-watered. Surplus water drains out. It also retains more water, longer.

1) You have a tendency to water too often? No problem. Leave a saucer under the pot. It can remain full at all times without harming the roots.

2) You have a tendency to forget to water? This is often caused by the usual warnings: “Once a week, never more!” With Gardex, you can water

without asking questions (even many times a day!). If you forget to

water, Gardex allows for an autonomy that is three

times as long as that of soil (one to three weeks, depending on the

size of the plants and on the season).

3) Gardex substrate favourably replaces soil for potted plants.

Very well aerated, it also retains a much higher

volume of water than soil. The surplus water drains out and the

substrate cannot be over-watered. The water retaining agents it contains

make up a water reserve that is used if you

forget to water the plants. Gardex is thus a product that suits your needs when you take your fi rst steps into the hydroponic world!

b) You’d Like to Try Hydroponics with a Small, Active System?Try Nutriculture’s FloGro. It is an ingenious little system where water circulates with the help of a water pump. The oxygen-loving roots are continuously fed a nutritive solution that, thanks to recirculation, is fi lled with air. You will get surprising results with this very easy to set up hydroponic garden. Its dimensions are ideal for indoor cultivation.

Installed in a few minutes, this garden will give you a green thumb! Mix cacti and tropical plants: everything can coexist and thrive. The water reservoir is easily accessible for maintenance. FloGro also has an integrated safety overfl ow system. It is very quiet because its water pump is submerged.

The FloGro can work 24 hours a day or can get many watering cycles per day (use a digital timer, offered under the heading “Appareils électriques” on www.cityplantes.com).

Amateurs’ Corner“Installing My First Indoor Garden”By Pierre Bonnard and Jean-Pierre Daimé (CityPlantes)

c) List of Elements Required to Set Up a Good Indoor Garden

What Why To start well...

A closed, clean garden space, that can be separated

in two.

With only one space, it is impossible to run different

stages simultaneously (plantlets onset, fructifi cation,

fl owering...).

A space for vegetative growth (1/3 of the available

space) and one for fl owering (2/3).

It is crucial to make these spaces light-proof.

Controlling the light allows the gardener to provoke or

prevent the fl owering of various plants. The slightest

amount of parasitic light during the darkness cycle is

detrimental.

A room facing the North is ideal because it is never

warmed by the sun and is easier to keep cool. A 30°C

garden does not perform as well as one kept at 20°C.

Horticultural lamps, 250 to 600 watts, for surfaces

between 0.5 m2 and 1.5m2.

A MH 250 or 400 watt lamp is suitable for vegetative

growth. No lamp manages to mimic the sun! Using a

mix of metal halide and high pressure sodium lamps in

the fl owering zone provides a more balanced colour

spectrum.

The indoor garden’s yield depends on the quantity of

light spread.

More light and a better colour spectrum – more

photosynthesis and a higher yield.

An exhaust fan linked to the outside with a suitable

exhaust capacity.

To extract surplus heat and humidity and bring CO2 on

the leaves. A good horticultural greenhouse renews its

volume of air 500 times per hour.

T connectors can exhaust or distribute air in two spaces.

An inline fan.

To move the plants and bring on more of the air’s CO2

on the leaves. Stems will be sturdier and photosynthesis

will improve.

Without air movement, plants are limp and collapse

under their own weight!

A fan linked to the outside used as an air blower, with

an air exchange capacity half that of the exhaust fan.To bring outside air to the plants’ base.

A single blower fan can be used to provide air for

both garden spaces, growth and fl owering, with a T

connector.

A digital timer.

To turn the lamps on and off according to the schedule

chosen (18/6 h or 12/12 h) and to trigger the watering

of hydroponic systems.

Choose a good-quality timer. Weak contacts and

unexpected resets create problems.

A hydroponic system.With a timer, the garden can be automated. Offers

higher yields than soil gardening (at least 50%!).

There are systems for every budget. Spare parts can

allow the gardener to design systems suitable for the

available space, without any specifi c technical expertise.

A hygrometer and a thermometer.They allow you to create the ideal environment for your

plants.

An average temperature around 20°C and a 60%

humidity are crucial to your crop’s success.

A suitable substrate: rock wool, clay pellets, perlite or

vermiculite mix, Gardex...

Favourably replaces soil for indoor gardens. More

effi cient than soil, substrates are the base of

hydroponics.

Gardex, used as soil (in pots, with manual watering)

is particularly simple and effi cient at the start of your

hydroponic adventure.

Suitable nutrients and additives.

For optimal growth and production.

For healthy plants.

For great cuttings.

Many fertilizers (growth, fl owering) and additives are

offered. Contact CityPlantes or your local hydroponic

store to get advice on your project.

An electro-conductivity meter.This measuring instrument allows you to precisely

determine the dosage of fertilizers given to plants.

Essential. It prevents the usual over-fertilization problem

that causes the plants’ death.

An electronic or liquid pH meter as well as pH

regulators.To monitor and modify the water’s pH.

Water with an adjusted pH of 6 is essential to your

plants’ feeding.

A measuring cup or a syringe. Required to dose nutrients, pH correctors, additives, etc.Those accessories are very useful to obtain a precise

dosage.

Wide self-adhesive Velcro.To tie the plastic sheet and all your accessories on any

support.

A careful installation with good accessories is almost a

guaranty that the indoor garden will function properly.

White, black or metallic plastic sheet. To refl ect and trap the light.Avoid light Mylar (survival blanket): it becomes noisy

when the fans move it.

Quality seeds for the plant of your choice.

Hydroponics improves the plants’ yield and health. The

taste of harvested products is directly linked to the

quality of the species or strain chosen.

Seeds from plants that thrive in our climate can benefi t

from spending a week in the refrigerator’s vegetable

crisper. This pre-germination pretend winter improves

the seeds’ onset.

To fi nd out more: www.cityplantes.com, call 01133-1-46648359 or send your comments by fax at: 01133-1-46647753.


INTRODUCTION


Photos: © X

AVm

ouche & D

.R.

NOTES & NEWS

Happy Birthday, Hydroponic Lettuce!

20 years! Yes, already 20 years! It was in 1987 that the fi rst hydroponic lettuce appeared on the North American market. In Québec, it was exactly on March 25, 1987, that

the fi rst hydroponic Boston lettuce showed its roots on the market. Boston lettuce had been cultivated for years in Québec, during the winter in greenhouses, but it was Jacques Lagacé, a grower hired by Productions Au Bois Joli, in the Victoriaville area, who fi rst experimented with a soil-less crop, roots

prospering in a mist of nutritive solution. He is the proud dad of Québec’s hydroponic lettuce! Lettuce sold with its roots met with true success. Ten years later, during an offi cial visit to China, Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien was offered a hydroponic lettuce during his tour of the China-Beijing Evergreen Vegetable Co., a sign that China is hopping on the band-wagon of hydroponics, as it does in all sectors. Twenty is a beautiful time of life... but beware of Chinese lettuce!

– T.I.G.

Québec: An Aquaponic Company Receives Governmental Funds For Its Launch

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has announced its grant of almost $80,000 to Cultures aquaponiquesML inc., to allow the business to go forward with a project to combine aquaculture and vegetable

production. Located in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts in the Laurentides, the company intends to use a production system that will combine rainbow trout farming and the hydroponic greenhouse cultivation of Boston lettuce. This innovative process, called aquaponics, is different

from traditional systems in that the same water can be used for trout farming and lettuce production.

The grant will serve, among other things, to acquire equipment and piscicultural and trout transformation systems. Once the project is underway, data will be collected to verify the technical and economical feasibility of the system. The project’s onset will create four jobs. “While paving the way to the complementarity of biofood activities using the simultaneous production of fi sh and plants, the project could contribute to solving the environmental issues raised by the pisciculture industry in Québec by reducing the impacts of such production on the aquatic environment”, said the ministry’s spokesperson.

Cultures aquaponiquesML inc. expects to reach an annual production of 5 tons of fi sh and 37 tons of lettuce once all production steps have been mastered. The new rainbow trout production will be transformed into smoked products for the restaurant market of the Laurentides, while the Boston lettuce will fi nd its way to food wholesalers in the greater Montréal area.

The realisation of this project comes as a positive answer to the new challenges created by fi sh-farming activities as regards aquatic habitat preservation. The project also fi ts in nicely with the government of Québec’s goals to increase innovation and industrial diversity. “The Québec government’s contribution will give Cultures aquaponiquesML inc.a primordial support. Through its project, the company testifi es to the ability of Laurentides businesses and workers to innovate while maximizing the use of local resources to add diversity to their activities”, concluded the Minister in charge of the region. The fi nancial aid is granted in accordance with the Program to support commercial fi shing and aquaculture innovation and development.

– Source: Québec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and

Food (www.agr.gouv.qc.ca)

Indoor Toxic Gas Emissions: 5% of Mortality Causes in AfricaIn 21 of the poorest African countries, indoor pollution generated by domestic-use fossil biomass (such as oil) and charcoal leads to irreversible or even deadly risks for some 1.5 million people each year. During a recent conference in Geneva, the World Health Organization

Photos: Hum

boldt Wholesale, D

.R. &

Arm

itano

denounced the dependence of the poorest populations on solid combustibles. These combustibles cause often-fatal pneumonia in children and chronic respiratory infections in adults. Furthermore, fossil biomass constitutes a non-renewable source of energy that increases the greenhouse effect. The WHO favours an increased awareness of African populations and substantial help to reduce the annual mortality rate by 5% on the continent.

– TIG (Source: www.passerelleco.info & AFP)

Humboldt Wholesale Grows

Humboldt Wholesale and South Coast Horticulture Supply (SCHS) have decided to join forces! Humboldt Wholesale is taking over all the products that South Coast Horticulture Supply had so that South Coast can focus on the manufacture and expansion of their Mad Farmer™ product line. That means that Humboldt Wholesale has picked up Can Fans and Filters, Hanna Instruments, and that the company is now the exclusive distributor of all Mad Farmer™ products. Contact Humboldt Wholesale at (707) 840-0999 for more information or visit our website: www.HumboldtWholesale.com.

– Seer Snively

Punk Meets Vegan, Meets Cupcakes!

Cupcakes are the new rage nowadays, with cupcake cafés and shops opening throughout every major city. For vegetarians, vegans, or even people with egg-allergies or

lactose intolerance, is there any hope in these butter and egg fi lled delicacies? You bet. Isa Chandra Moskowitz, now 34, grew up as a New York punk, following bands and squatting in old buildings. She has turned her ever-questioning philosophy to food, becoming a vegan... and a cook. Her fi rst book, Vegan With a Vengeance, sold over 50,000 copies, and in the fall of 2006, she published what many people were waiting for: Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World. “Omnivores, she says, can’t imagine baking without eggs and butter, but we use cider vinegar instead of buttermilk for tenderizing, and really good shortening for the fat, and the rest just happens.”

– H.J. (Source: The New York Times)

Books: A Classic for Bromeliaceae Lovers

Bromeliaceae of Venezuela by Francisco Oliva-Esteva and Julian A Steyermark (Armitano Publisher, 1987) may be 20 years old, but it remains an important reference for indoor gardeners who are curious about the most rare and exceptional exotic plants. Since many of our readers were intrigued by the plant featured on the cover of our January/February issue (see also our Q&A section), they will fi nd in this book other, even more fantastic bromeliaceae to adapt into their home. The only fl aw this books caries? Its price: 115$! Arrange it so someone gives it to you!

– T.I.G.


NOTES & NEWS


Photos: © Le Tropic Sauna, Paris &

Nova Biom

atique, inc.TIPS & TRICKS

As indoor or greenhouse gardening creates

artifi cial conditions to fulfi ll plant needs, we

need to protect them from all threats usually

active in every natural environment.

In diffi cult conditions, all plants close their

stomata (millions of openings under each leaf)

and quickly slow or stop the following activities:

• Photosynthesis process;

• Absorption of water and nutrients;

• Transpiration, essential to water and nutrients transport;

• Carbon dioxide absorption (essential for sugar-making in

photosynthesis: only taken in from the air);

• Thus, stopping all growth and development for the plant.

In fact:

• Plants remain in a fully stopped state until comfortable

conditions are re-established;

• At last, the plant will not deliver optimal yields without

proper climate control.

Plants do not care for clocks:

• When there is light, they feel it’s day time;

• When it’s dark, they conclude that it’s night;

• All plants need complete darkness during their “night” period.

Plants have different climate conditions needs for day and night periods:

• Temperature;

• Relative humidity;

• Air concentration in carbon dioxide.

Every plant needs carbon dioxide to get the carbon

to build its cells, on top of water and nutrients.

Carbon and nutrients must be available in proper

proportions to sustain growth. Carbon dioxide

has to be available through:

• Ventilation, with fresh air replenishing the

carbon dioxide available as plant consumption

depletes it; or:

• Carbon dioxide enrichment, either through a

gas burning generator or through bottled CO2.

Thus, there are essential climate parameters to keep the stomata open:

• Temperature;

• Relative humidity;

• Carbon dioxide available supply.

Climate control in indoor gardening and greenhouses aims at:

• Adjusting the parameters keeping the plants’ stomata opened;

• Facilitating the gardener’s time management;

• Controlling automatically the processes of:

• heating;

• cooling;

• humidifying;

• dehumidifying;

• supplying carbon dioxide.

Climate controllers for indoor gardening and greenhouses are built:

• To operate in humid and harsh conditions;

• With accurate sensors and narrow ranges;

• With computer programming to specifi cally manage all parameters to

fulfi ll the plants’ needs.

On one hand, single parameter climate controllers:

• Manage only one of the essential climate parameter;

• Control only one process;

• Call for constant minute-by-minute settings and assistance to avoid

opposite processes acting simultaneously, like heating and cooling;

• Are inexpensive but produce limited results.

On the other hand, integrated climate controllers:

• Manage at least two climate parameters that are constantly linked;

• Are programmed to accurately monitor a climate parameter and control

the adjusting processes;

• Do all the job while you work on something else;

• Produce maximum yields and highest quality vegetables, fruits and much

more!

Visit: www.igrowing.ca or www.igrowing.com.

Climate Control with Nova Biomatique Inc. (Plug’n’Grow)

By Denis J. Garand, Ph.D.

Illustration: © 2003, Japanese Society for Chitin and Chitosane —

Photos: D.R

.Chitosan is a carbohydrate (or, more simply, a sugar) from entirely natural components. By its chemical composition, it is considered to be a polysaccharide. Chitosan is chemically produced through an operation called “alkaline deacetylation of chitin” or “enzymatic deacetylation of chitin.” Chitin is the main component of the exoskeleton of arthropods such as crustaceans, of the endoskeleton of cephalopods such as squid, of snail shells, of the cuticle of insects and spiders, of the side wall of some mushrooms, of baking yeast (precisely the Saccharomyces cerevisiae mushroom) and of some species of lichen. It is also found in great quantity in plankton. The word “chitin” comes from the Greek term to name a tunic – in this case, the bodily shell of crustaceans and other invertebrates. A crab’s shell, for example, is made up of 25% chitin and 75% calcium carbonate.

Chitin is a fibre, like cellulose, but it has many more chemical and biological properties than cellulose. Its

exceptional physical heritage makes it useful in numerous biological domains and in many industrial and medical applications. Chitin, or its derivative, chitosan, is used in the following areas:

• cosmetology;• pharmacology;

• medicine;• nutrition (for weight-loss diets);

• biotechnology;• environment;• water treatment;• paper and packaging;• wood industry;• textile industry;• and, of course, agriculture!

Chitin and its derivatives, such as chitosan, have antifungal and phytosanitary properties that make it both a pesticide (an antifungal agent, actually) and a protective nutrient for plants. Chitosan’s protective ability is not limited to its anti-parasitic action: aside from

its intrinsic antifungal action, it also plays a crucial role in reinforcing the root mass of the plant and in thickening its stems. One of chitosan’s advantages is that very little of it is needed. Doses as low as a few milligrams per cubic metre of water suffice to trigger the plant’s complex defence mechanisms and protect it efficiently against parasitic aggressions and infections. Chitosan can be used diluted in a solution, but it can also be used as a coating (to protect seeds) or as a powder. Used sparingly, chitosan stimulates the synthesis of the protective agents in the treated plant.

Recent studies done in the United States on a farmland that is extremely sensitive to fungal infestations have demonstrated the effectiveness of chitosan as an antifungal agent. On the plots seeded with chitosan-coated seeds, the yield was 20% higher than on the plots with seeds planted without treatment.

For my part, I recommend the preventive use of chitosan by means of a foliar spray on your indoor plants. The chitosan-based product mimics an attack to the immune system and forces the plant to fight off a fake attack, making it more resistant and productive. If a true attack occurs, the plant will already be able to fight off the invaders more efficiently, and it would thus not be as affected. In this case, a chitosan-based product is best used in conjunction with fulvic acid and a substrate pH maintained at 5.5. For a true preventive treatment, however, it is recommended to stop using chitosan as of the second week of flowering.

Chitosan For Your PlantsBy J.-F. Savard


TIPS & TRICKS


INDUSTRY NEWSHydrofarm Announces...Three New Powerfans From Vortex Are Added To Hydrofarm CatalogHydrofarm has added three new models to its Vortex line. The

models are a 275 CFM model with a 15 cm fl ange; a 600 CFM

model with 20 cm fl ange, and a 900 CFM model with a 30 cm

fl ange. Vortex Powerfans offer high performance features in an

impressive aerodynamic package. These high performance inline

duct blowers are constructed from quality steel and feature

a resilient and attractive hammertone power coat fi nish. The

specially designed extended collar allows for easy duct installation

and taping. Its superior quality and smart design ensure vibration

free operation, featuring balanced motorized impellers with

permanently lubricated ball bearings. Manufacturer included

are; a 1.8 metres power cord, and galvanized mounting

brackets allowing both horizontal and vertical installation. Visit

www.hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Hydrofarm Adds Two New Bulbs to Its Hortilux/EYE Lighting Lineup

Hydrofarm has added the Super HPS 250W lamp to

its existing Hortilux Super HPS high pressure sodium

line. This bulb features exclusive Iwasaki chemistry

and global lighting technology to deliver 30,500 initial

lumens. The lamp’s spectral energy was designed to

provide the optimum light for plant growth from the

fl owering stage to full maturity. This lamp operates

on standard ANSI S50 ballast, for use on 250-watt

high pressure sodium systems that operate lamps in

the universal position.

Additionally, Hydrofarm now offers the Hortilux

enhanced spectrum Super Blue super HPS

and metal halide grow lamp to its line. The

extraordinary power of SUPER HPS and the balanced

spectrum of Hortilux-Blue – all in one bulb – will promote

vigorous vegetative growth, accelerated growth and hearty

fl owering. To fi nd a Hydrofarm authorized retailer near you, visit

www.hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Hydrofarm Announces the Addition of the All New Lumatek 600 Watt Dual Ballast to Its LineLumatek spent two years in R&D and one year in testing to insure

that their 600W Dual Ballast is the brightest 600W ballast on the

market. Incorporating two ballasts into

one enclosure, the 600W Dual ballast

features an ON/OFF switch allowing

users to choose between using two

ballasts or just one. Lumatek ballasts

produce more lumens while using less

energy and are capable of powering

both HPS and MH lamps. The effi ciency,

versatility, and reliability of Lumatek ballasts has made them the

ideal solution for today’s indoor gardening enthusiasts.

• Two 600W outputs in one enclosure.

• New fuse protection – external fuse system protects against

surges.

• Up to 20% more lumens than comparable magnetic ballasts.

• Internally RF shielded – the best on the market.

• Completely silent – leave the humming and buzzing behind.

• Also available in 250, 400, 600, 750 and 1,000 watts.

• Best warranty in the industry: 3 years full + 2 years prorated.

• Resin-sealed for water resistance and maintenance free

operation.

• Snap-in rubber feet included.

To fi nd a Hydrofarm authorized retailer near you, visit www.

hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Active Aqua Water Chiller SeriesHydrofarm is pleased to add the Active Aqua Water Chiller series

to its product line. These chillers are available in 150, 280 and 360

watt models. They are ideal to keep hydroponics solution in your

reservoir at the perfect temperature. They feature a user-friendly

microcomputer control system and LCD display, and a temperature

memory system. With their large refrigeration capacity, water can

be refrigerated to any degree above 3.8°C in a short period of

time. Additionally, they are freon-free, environmentally friendly,

and surge protected so they will turn off if there is a power surge.

Visit www.hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Technafl ora Plant Product Wins Award for Website and T-Shirt Design

Photos:

INDUSTRY NEWSGeneral Hydroponics Wins an EMMY®

Read the full story on page 30.


Photos: Bruno BredouxPORTRAIT

North Hollywood, April 9th, 2007 – On a clear and sunny spring morning, I climbed over the hills of Hollywood on my way to the Vitamin Institute, on quiet Saticoy Street in North Hollywood. I was there to meet a legend, someone I heard of many times since working in the indoor gardening industry, someone who invented a miraculous supplement that can, among other things, make freshly transplanted adult trees thrive and overcome the stress of being moved from one place to another.

Born on November 23, 1911, in Detroit, Michigan, Dr. John A. A. Thomson received the Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honour given by the Lawn and Garden Marketing and Distribution Association, in a ceremony held in Phoenix in January, 2006 (see our Notes & News section in Volume 2 – Issue 1). He was the fi rst chemist to receive this award. His career is summarized in Who’s Who in America, and covers 69 years, from 1938 to today. He is best known for SUPERthrive™ and for products like Cutstart™ or Seedyield™ – two “Horms” among about 100 horticultural hormone products he has invented over the years – that are now discontinued or

have found their way in the fi nal formula of SUPERthrive™! Dr. Thomson has also been acknowledged in 28 other Who’s Who directories.

The Indoor Gardener Magazine: I think the fi rst thing our readers would like to know is the story behind your education and how you started your career. It goes all the way back to the early 1930’s, I think?

Dr. John A. A. Thomson: “Well, it’s kind of a long story. I got interested in the whole subject of nutrition when I was a kid. My mother was into nutrition and I started up from her. Then she got me a Welsh terrier puppy one Christmas. And I had to fi gure out how to bring him up and nourrish him so he’d be healthy. I therefore had to study the subject and go down to check out pet stores, look at what they had, read their literature and so forth. At that time they already had some knowledge of vitamins and minerals as well as other substances they were putting together just for that purpose. When my puppy was eight months old, I had already won several animal club contests and a number of ribbons and prizes. So as I look back, I realize that it has something to do with my continued interest in the subject, which I continued to maintain as I went along.”

67 Years of SuccessExclusive interview with Dr. John A. A. Thomson, founder of the Vitamin Institute and inventor of SUPERthrive™As told to Bruno Bredoux

Travis Thomson, Dr. John A. A. Thomson and Patrisha Thomson in front of the Vitamin Institute, North Hollywood, April 9th, 2007.

25VOLUME 3 – ISSUE 1 THE INDOOR GARDENER

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PORTRAIT

T.I.G.: So, where did you study?

Dr. Thomson: “In Pasadena. It didn’t hurt that the city of Pasadena, where I attended high school, had a large offi ce of the US Department of Agriculture, and a chemist teaching one summer class. He was also teaching the chemistry courses that I was taking, so that helped too.”

T.I.G.: And did you already intend to be a biochemist back then?

Dr. Thomson: “Actually, I really intended to be a lawyer and I was taking all kinds of courses in college to that end. In fact I was a senior in the USC School of Government. But fi nally when I got married in 1938, I decided that I had to make a living and could not wait all the years necessary for me to graduate in law school and become a lawyer. I had to eat!... [laughter]”

At the same time, through my readings of scientifi c magazines, I became acquainted with new discoveries involving vitamins and their effects on plants, humans and animals. I was fascinated with this stuff and kept on reading more on the subject. It soon became clear that this was something I could make a living with. At fi rst I hesitated and continued my law studies. But I got so carried away that I changed my mind and decided that this was more basic, more fundamental and important for the world and for people’s welfare. This, I believed, would be a heck of a good way to spend a life!”

T.I.G.: And did the idea of your product SUPERthrive™ come around at that time? Did you start to develop it as early as that?

Dr. Thomson: “Oh, yes, it was in 1938. I started working on it in 1938 and I got the fi rst formula of it ready early in 1940. I was exhibiting in the San Francisco International Exposition, which was the offi cial World Fair of San Francisco in 1940, and I still have product fl yers that were left for people to pick up there. The direction of the Fair agreed that I could show my products there rent-free. In fact, they said I could sell it but I didn’t have anybody around to do that. But we had a good showing for our display and a lot of people from around the world picked up our literature.

At that time, strangely enough, that literature referred to my Horms #1: Cutstart™, Horms #2: Seedyield™, Horms #3: Rootall™, Horms #4: Transall™, Horms #5: Fruitcling™. Transall™ was the name I used for the product at fi rst. Soon I switched to producing smaller bottles which I called SUPERthrive™ with the name Transall™ (printed underneath). Every bottle had two names but it was the same product. I just got a more professional name than Transall™/Horms #4, because Transall™ emphasizes the fact that it was so good for transplanting. With SUPERthrive™, I refl ect that the product was also good for everything [laughter]... So, that’s how I got started.”

T.I.G.: Did you change the formula over the years?

Dr. Thomson: “Gradually, I improved it, but I can tell you that any leftovers from the product that I have from many decades ago still beat the heck out of anything else on the market, even today!”

T.I.G.: Did you work with other professionals or partners at that time?

Dr. Thomson: “No! I did all my work myself. I interviewed people who had written scientifi c papers as I still do today. I frequently telephone people who are doing cutting-edge work on human nutrition and ask them questions inspired by their scientifi c papers that I read. This is just a good idea and I did the same thing in those days. If they didn’t publish all of their research, it’s partly because almost all scientifi c discoveries and investigations answer questions and simultaneously bring up new questions. And those new questions generate further inquiries about what else did they fi nd out […].”

Photo: © V

itamin Institute

[To illustrate this and the fact that he is well aware of the latest scientifi c discoveries, in particular on questions of human nutrition, Dr. Thomson got into a long digression regarding the use of vitamins in human health, particularly about the use of K vitamins for anti-coagulation and the regulation of blood fl ow, as well as about how 1 mg of B1 vitamin taken at once orally was enough to heal a Filipino man suffering from beriberi who was at death’s door.]

T.I.G: So, how do you make a connection between the studies and experiments about vitamins for humans and vitamins for plants?

Dr. Thomson: “[…] You can consider that the whole fi eld of vitamins for humans is parallel to the development of the knowledge of vitamins for plants. Except that in the fi eld of vitamins for plants, it is a little bit different in this respect. Humans have to have them from the outside by defi nition. But in the case of vitamins for plants, most of the plants MAKE them if the growing conditions are ideal and if they have enough time. Those – ideal growing conditions and time – are the two necessary elements plants need to get along by themselves as far as vitamins and hormones are concerned. But in the case of normal practice and facts of life, very few people want to wait forever and they think they will never seem to have ideal conditions. That’s where I come in with SUPERthrive™ so that people can get results quickly instead of relying on an unknown future!”

T.I.G.: Do you make the product out of plants?

Dr. Thomson: “No, I don’t make it out of plants. I buy the pure crystals. At one time, I had to make some myself because I couldn’t buy them pure enough. I gradually found producers where I can buy them all. I now get chemicals from all around the world. Sometimes there are very small quantities, sometimes much larger quantities. In fact, I order the quality and amounts that a plant normally can use.”

T.I.G.: And the companies that produce the crystals, who are they?

Dr. Thomson: “You know, in most cases, they are completely unconscious of the purposes to which they can

be put [laughter]...”

T.I.G: On which kind of plants did you make your fi rst experiments with vitamins?

Dr. Thomson: “All kinds of plants. I used to say I had the largest experiment station in the world because I had all the leading nurseries in Southern California and government agencies and everybody else. I was around testing stuff all the time. People were very glad to help me and see what we could learn. And they all came out head over heels happy because I ended up with a product they could use and they were glad to use it.”

T.I.G.: Do you give people in the industry, like landscape architects, specifi c quantities of SUPERthrive™ to experiment with or to use?

Dr. Thomson: “No way! They have to pay like everyone else! [...] Often landscape architects don’t know about the product. When real estate developers develop a lot, they may hire some architect and landscape architect from New York or somewhere like that. They may build a large hotel in Las Vegas and they want to transplant trees around it. They don’t know anything about the climate and they don’t know us. But before they’re done, they all use SUPERthrive™. Every single one, including the ones that have already been imploded [Dr. Thomson is speaking of all the older hotels that have been demolished to make way for the bigger, grander new hotels such as The Old Frontier, The Stardust, The Dunes, etc. – editor’s note], used the original product years ago... In every big hotel in Las Vegas, trees and other plants are grown with SUPERthrive™...”

T.I.G.: And do you have another example of the use of SUPERthrive™ in a former deserted area which is now a green oasis?

Dr. Thomson: “In Las Vegas, Phoenix, Tucson, Palm Springs, Disneyland, Disneyworld... they all used my stuff. In Arizona, along the Colorado river, an industrialist manufacturing agricultural equipment, Robert P. McCulloch, I believe it was, bought a huge piece of land about 45 miles (72 km) long, large enough to build a whole city. This ended up being Lake Havasu City. It was in 1964. They telephoned me after they’d been doing their planting in January of that year. By February, as it started to get a little warmer, the plants were already dying. And if it gets warmer in February, they said, it will get warmer and warmer until all the transplanting is fi nished. As they started worrying about the whole operation, they found out about my stuff. They used nineteen of those drums [Dr. Thomson shows me a 15-gallon (60 L) container in the corner of his offi ce], and


PORTRAIT

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they continued to plant in the spring and the summer, the whole city. A whole “pre-planted city” in the desert. I had never heard of such a thing before! It worked like a charm, they said. They didn’t lose one more plant in the spring and summer and they could save what still had any life that they had planted in January and February.

Another example is the city of Tucson, in southern Arizona, where they were planting and developing huge parks! They were buying two 15-gallon (60 L) drums from me at a time. One of the pictures on our labels shows how they used the substance once a month on pine trees which grew 37 extra inches more than those with fertilizer alone. This all took place in just seven months, using the product once a month! On pine trees!”

T.I.G.: Do you have a famous quote from a user of SUPERthrive™ to conclude?

Dr. Thomson: “The example of a landscape architect working at Disneyland comes to mind. He fi nished his landscaping one year faster than required by Walt Disney because he could move 400 huge specimen trees through the hot dry southern California summer. At the end of his project, he told the American Society of Landscape Architects that: ‘It wouldn’t have been possible had it not been for the existence of SUPERthrive™ [...] There is no equivalent to SUPERthrive™!’ Which there isn’t, of course!”

T.I.G.: Thank you so much, Dr. Thomson, for your time and all those souvenirs you shared with our readers!

Dr. Thomson: “Thanks to you too and have a safe trip back to Montreal!”

(I also wish to thank your daughter Patrisha Thomson and grandson

Travis Thomson, who welcomed me to the Vitamin Institute and

allowed me to tour the SUPERthrive™ bottling and packaging line.)

PORTRAIT


Photos: Katholieke U

niversiteit Leuven & Cape Seed and Bulb

BOTANY

What is a plant and why does it live? The role of a plant is essentially, and sometimes perilously, to reach its maturity as quickly as possible in order to reproduce and hence ensure the survival of its species. The Earth’s surface contains countless ecosystems where various factors can limit plant growth and sometimes even threaten entire plant species. By a phenomenon known as “natural selection”, only the

subjects who develop tricks such as these discussed below will be able to survive. It was British entomologist Henry Bates, at the end of the eighteenth century, who published the fi rst study of this phenomenon, later called “mimicry” or “mimetism”. During eleven years spent studying Amazonian butterfl ies, he had discovered that some harmless species sometimes bore the bright colours typical of another, venomous, species in order to confuse its predators. The

phenomenon was fi rst observed in insects and animals, but it is common in plants. This article proposes to explain how it works and to give you a few examples.

Natural SelectionWhen discussing natural selection, we are, in fact, discussing the survival of the most inventive and the disappearance of

others. Take for example the development of pesticide resistance in some plants or insects. Spraying a product to destroy predators usually does not lead to a complete success. Some of the creatures are quite fragile and will die upon contact with the poison. Some are stronger, however, and will carry on with their growth. They will have an opportunity to adapt and to reproduce, an opportunity the others will not have. The species’ new members will also carry the resistance gene that allowed their parent to survive. Among these, the strongest will survive, until we end up with a 100% resistant generation.

Various Mimicry Casesa) Optical mimicrySome plants have developed a very particular technique to improve their chances of pollinating. Researchers have discovered that

the Helleborine, a red orchid, uses the bees that pollinate the bellfl ower Campanula persicifolia to spread its pollen. How does the plant do it? Both plants are visited by the same types of bees, but aside from the environment they share, they

have nothing in common. So what attracts the bees to the orchid, a fl ower that looks nothing like the bellfl ower and bears no nectar to feed them? It seems that bees are mainly guided by the infrared spectrum emitted by the fl owers, and

Morphological Change, Morphological Change, Physiological DevelopmentPhysiological DevelopmentImitating... for life!Imitating... for life!By Dave Guillemette

Helleborine and Stapelia

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that our orchid is borrowing the bellfl ower’s spectrum. The bee thus lands on the orchid looking for nectar. Instead, she leaves with countless tiny pollinium stuck to her body, which she then disperses.

Orchid fl owers have the most remarkable shapes, often reminding one of insects. In the case of Ophrys speculum, the fl ower’s bottom labellum looks exactly like a female bee, both in shape and size. When the male, seeking company, tries to mate with the fl ower (pseudo-mating), he takes in pollen, which he then spreads.

Some plants use mimicry to protect themselves against herbivores that would otherwise eat them. It is the case of Lithops among others: they become almost invisible in their environment. Over time, they have taken the form and colour of the rocks on which they grow. How then do they attract pollinating insects with that rock-like appearance? Imagine a huge yellow fl ower on a sand and rock background, and you will soon realize that they are quite visible!

b) Olfactory MimicryAgain in the hope of improving its reproduction, south Africa’s Stapelia nobilis uses a most original trick. Not only does it have the colour and aspect of decomposing meat, this plant also emits its odour! Why choose something as gross? For necrophagous insects, that smell indicates a feast! Of course, they will lay their eggs — but the larvae will fi nd no food and will die. The phenomenon is not profi table for insects, but it is for the plant they help to spread!

These are only a few examples among many of plants that have learned over time to take advantage of their environmental mimicry abilities. It is fascinating to see how inventive plants can be to fulfi l their main goals: to prosper and to reproduce. What is most surprising is that these modifi cations occur naturally… in nature. Whether with colours, shapes or smells, plants will always fi nd a way to reach their goal!

BOTANY

LithopsLithops


INDUSTRY NEWSPhotos : LED

Grow

-Master G

lobal LLC & Technafl ora

With Super Effi cient LGM365 LED Grow Lights…Garden All Year Long!

LED Grow Master Global LLC

is happy to announce the

patented LGM5 terrestrial

plant bar. Drawing just 9 watts,

the LGM5 covers an area up to

30 x 90 cm, costing $7.88 per year

to operate. LGM5 is low voltage,

making photovoltaic panels a snap.

For hobby growers: ideal for cuttings

through vegetative to fl owering.

LGM5 eliminates stretching. Use

LGM5 when adding light to your existing HPS/halide. Garden-

increasing yields, disease resistance and overall plant health, for just

pennies per day.

For the greenhouse farmer: LGM5 is easily mounted, extends the day

period, augments sunlight on cloudy days, while remaining cheap

enough to run constantly during light hours. Qualify for green business

certifi cations. Provides a safer working environment for your team.

Increases greenhouse yields, while extending your grow season to 365-

days-a-year.

LGM5 bars are easily expandable to multi-bar-arrays, using SunMount,

the latest in LGM mounting accessories, to hang 4 to 8 LGM5 bars in an

array covering 60 cm2 to 1.2 m2.

For wholesale inquiries, contact: [email protected] or

1 866 414-7244, website: www.led-grow-master.com or, for their

eastern Canadian distributor, contact Brite-Lite Group at:

www.hydroponix.com or 1 800 489-2215.

– J.D.C.

Technafl ora Plant Product Wins Award for Website and T-Shirt Design and Announces a New Size for its Rootech ContainerA) Award winning Website and T-shirt DesignTechnafl ora Plant Products Ltd. brought home awards for Best Website

Design and Best T-shirt Design at the Progressive Gardening Trade

Association’s (PGTA), 2007 Annual Meeting, which was held in Las

Vegas, April 21 – 22nd.

The award winning website is designed to provide our customers with

valuable gardening resources and information. Customers can obtain

in-depth information about our full line of exceptional plant nutrients

and fertilizers, retail and wholesale listings throughout Canada

and the United States, media releases and more. The website also

provides a community forum, where customers can login, ask technical

questions about our products and learn about reservoir and nutrient

management.

The design for the Best T-shirt Award was a last minute entry. The logo,

which is screen printed on a black shirt, was created for Technafl ora’s

newest product, ROOT 66. ROOT 66 is a nutrient blend that is comprised

of seaweed extracts, trace elements, and polysachridies. It promotes

the exceptional development of a well-balanced root structure, which

is a vital component of overall plant growth and performance. At

transplanting, ROOT 66 improves the establishment of seedlings and

cuttings by stimulating adventitious root development.

The team at Technafl ora Plant Products Ltd. would like to pass on

its congratulations to everyone who won awards at this year’s PGTA

Annual Meeting.

B) New Size of Rootech Cloning GelTechnafl ora has just released the new 28 oz. (785 g) jar of Rootech

Cloning Gel. Currently available in two, four, and eight ounce jars as

well as a four litre bucket, this 28 oz. jar is perfect for the gardener

who requires more than eight ounces but less than four litres for their

propagation needs.

Rootech Cloning Gel is among the strongest cloning gels on the market,

with a concentration of 0.55% (5.5g/L) IBA. The thick, rich gel adheres

to the plant tissue and effectively seals the cut and protects developing

rootlets and plant tissue from embolisms.

Rootech is ideal for propagation of the most hard-to-root plants and it

can also be diluted with water for use on cuttings that will form roots

more easily. Don’t delay. Ask your distributor about the new 28 oz.

(785g) Rootech jar today!

– Source: L.M. (Technafl ora)

Embellishing the Outdoors? It is Possible, With Kuntur Béton!Is your outdoor environment in need of help? Façades, alleys, borders,

sidewalks, balconies, galleries... nothing can resist Kuntur Béton’s team.

All work is certifi ed by a written warranty: from the repair of foundation

fi ssures to epoxy or urethane injection, brick wall restoration, driveways,

the design and building of fl agstone alleys in your green or garden

spaces, the setting of solid borders that can resist extreme temperature

variations, etc. These professional masons use 100% water-tight

materials. They work year-round. Kuntur Béton’s team offers a free

estimate. Take advantage of their 10% rebate campaign this summer.

Call 514 678-8504.

– T.I.G.

The new Rootech Jar, 28 oz

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farm

INDUSTRY NEWSGeneral Hydroponics Wins an EMMY®

Now in production for its third season, “Natural Heroes” is a nationally-

distributed series of independent fi lms about people who are making

a difference in the environment, both locally and globally. It has been

described as an eco-fi lm festival for TV. Each episode shares a common

theme, but is presented with its own content and style. Over the past two

years, General Hydroponics has proudly been the primary production

sponsor and underwriter of “Natural Heroes”. Continuing with success,

GH has committed to supporting the series into its third season.

“Natural Heroes” is produced by KRCB in partnership with GreenTreks

Network, Inc., and has been seen on more than 60 public television

stations across the country. Details on the “Natural Heroes” series can be

found online at www.krcb.org and www.naturalheroes.org. Many of the

individual episodes are also available for on-demand viewing through

those same links: www.krcb.org/television/natural_heroes.htm.

– L.C.

Hydrofarm Announces the Publication of Its Retail CatalogHot off the presses, Hydrofarm’s 248-page,

full-color catalog is packed with more than 2,000

products from the nation’s oldest and most respected

Indoor Gardening Distributor. Handy reference features will help both

the novice and the expert make smart choices, and color photos and

informative descriptions of products will make this the “must-have”

catalog for hydroponics afi cionados. The Hydrofarm Catalog is available

at hydroponics stores across the country. To fi nd a hydroponics retailer

near you, go to www.hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Tri-Fold Brochures: Ballasts and Refl ectors

Hydrofarm has new brochures

available that feature their best-in-

the-industry ballast and refl ector

lines. With colorful photos and

product features and benefi ts,

you’ll fi nd all the information you

need to choose the right product

for your growing needs. Visit:

www.hydrofarm.com.

– R.K.

Photos: Bruno BredouxGALLERY

Pomegranate, Pienza, Italy, September 2006

Banana trees in an interior yard, Rome, Italy, September 2006Banana trees in an interior yard, Rome, Italy, September 2006

Tomato plants, Pienza, Italy, September 2006

Tomato plants, Pienza, Italy, September 2006

Ripe fruit / Flowering fruit-bearing trees

Phot

os: B

.B. &

The

Nau

ghty

Cur

ry P

roje

ctGALLERY

Picture of an opened avocado from the post “Dare We Alter Alton’s* AVOCADOS?” on the food blog The Naughty Curry Project (www.naughtycurry.com) October 2006{*Alton Brown from the Food Network}

Litchi planted in a stone trough, Litchi planted in a stone trough, Montepulciano, Italy, September 2006Montepulciano, Italy, September 2006

GALLERYPhotos: G

olden Valley Seed & A

nthony 53

Apple blossom, Grenoble, France, July 2005

Papaya tree hermaphrodite fl ower, Hawaii, 2001


Photos: EcoSystem &

CannaPLANT HEALTH

Modern fertilizers, amendments and horticultural treatments do not necessarily have a good

reputation. Using hydroponics can lead to a fear of chemical products (we’re already doing

without soil!) to the profi t of generous, if artifi cial, yields. Plants need nitrogen (N), phosphorous

(P) and potassium (K) as well as a certain number of trace minerals. In soil, plants fi nd this N-P-K-

containing food in the decomposition of organic matter and trace minerals, which vary depending

on the location, favour a varying growth and provide plants with their regional fl avour.

In hydroponics, the substrate is by defi nition sterile, amorphous and inert. It is thus necessary to give

roots the same mineral elements that can be found in nature, but in a form that is directly available

to the plants, in water and liquid nutrients. These nutrients exist as synthetic or organic fertilizers,

and give comparable results if they are used properly. Each gardener must make his or her choice.

Hydroponic nutrient manufacturers most often offer products that contain many components. This

is because some high-quality fertilizer components do not cohabitate well when in concentrated

form. They can, however, be combined when diluted in a nutritive solution for plants.

CityPlantes suggests a selection of nutrients recognized by hydroponic-cultivation specialists as

producing good results and being easy to use.

I – Analysing the Nutrient Concentration (Managing Electro-Conductivity)These devices are extremely useful to know if you are using

the proper nutrient doses. Maintenance is limited to changing

the battery once every year or two. The insurance they provide

and the precision of the data they give make these devices

necessary for the plant lover.

To fi nd out the concentration of a nutritive solution, one

technique is to measure is electro-conductivity. Pure water is

not conductive, but it becomes conductive as soon as a salt

or an acid is added. City water already contains impurities and

dissolved mineral salts: it is not uncommon to see water with

In this text I will propose a complete foliar

spraying program, offering your plants all the

life insurance they need to give you a plentiful

harvest without a glitch.

To make sure that your plants can quickly and

directly assimilate some products, it is often

required to apply them directly to the foliage.

Some products, in fact, are specifi cally

designed for foliar applications, and the

active ingredients they contain act much

more effi ciently when they are administered

thus. It is important to understand that a

foliar application needs to be well done to

have an effect. Too many indoor gardeners,

still beginners, apply foliar sprays on the

top of plants, and believe that a lazy little

shower will be an effi cient foliar application.

It is not so! For a foliar application to be truly

worthwhile, it must be done from under the

plants, to reach all vital parts of the leaves.

It must also be done using a pressure pump

that is strong enough and, preferably, using

one that has a telescopic wand to reach

under the plants and reach all the way to

the other end of your gardening space. The

telescopic wand should be good enough to

emit the fi nest mist: when fi ne mist touches

the plants, it is full of oxygen, covers the

surface well and is assimilated with more

ease. A serious indoor gardener will always

use distilled water for foliar spraying.

Here is a list of products that I strongly

recommend using to offer your plants all the

prevention and help they need. It is up to you

to decide the order with which you will apply

these products: each case is different and

some among you will probably need to use

some products more than some others, to

respond to a need or a defi ciency. Remember

that it is important to clean the foliage the

day following a foliar application, using only

distilled water.

Fertilizer Fertilizer Management in Management in

HydroponicsHydroponics

Plant CareFoliar SprayingBy J.-F. Savard

By Jean-Pierre Daimé and Pierre Bonnard (CityPlantes)

PLANT HEALTHPh

otos

: Bot

anic

are

& E

lsev

ier P

ublis

her

an electro-conductivity of 0.5. Adding nutrients will increase its conductivity.

Measuring the electro-conductivity allows one to precisely know the nutrient

concentration of a nutritive solution.

Devices that measure electro-conductivity give a measure of the total

quantity of dissolved solids in the water. They determine the amount of

current going between two electrodes plunged in the nutritive solution and

display a value.

The available devices use many value units. The table below gives you some equivalencies and the

measuring range that your device must handle to be used in horticulture.

The measuring devices suggested by CityPlantes work in millisiemens or in microsiemens per

square centimetre. This, by luck, can be directly read as an EC value. Testing instruments displaying

results in TDS are rarer.

UnitsElectro-

conductivityMillimhos/cm2 = millisiemens/cm2

Microsiemens/cm2 (µsiemens/cm2)

Total dissolved solids

Equivalency 1 1 mS/cm_ 1 000 µS/cm_640 ppm (parts

per million)

Measuring range 0 to 19.9 0 to 19.9 100 to 19,999 0 to 10,000

(Example: a 100 ppm reading means that for one million solution molecules, 100 molecules are

total dissolved solids and 999,900 are water molecules.) The nutritive elements concentration

not to exceed (or by little) in hydroponic system water is 1.8 EC (or 1,800 millisiemens/cm2) for

most plants.

a) Chitosan (various brands):Chitosan is sold under various product brands.

This carbohydrate, a natural mixture of crab,

shrimp and gastropod carcasses, mimics an

attack to the immune system and forces the

plant to fi ght off a fake attack, making it

more resistant and productive. If a true attack

occurs, the plant will

already be able to fi ght

off the invaders more

effi ciently, and it would

thus not be as affected.

It is best to use this

product in combination

with fulvic acid and at a

pH of 5.5. Stop using it in the second week

of fl owering.

Site: www.ingentaconnect.com/content/

els/09255214/2000/00000020/00000001/

art00108.

Photos: Spray-N-G

row, N

utrilife, Advanced N

utrients, CityPlantes & D

.R.

Here are, for reference purposes, some values applicable to various plants depending on the season.

Units Summer EC Winter ECIn the summer, plants transpire

more; the solution must thus be more concentrated.

Lettuce, beans 0.7 to 1.5 EC 1.5 to 1.8Most plants enjoy this concentration

rangeCucumbers, melons

1.6 to 1.8 EC 1.8 to 2.2

Tomato, eggplant 2.5 to 3.0 EC 3.0 to 3.5 These are exceptionally greedy!

Consult the “Mesures et test” page of our online catalog at www.cityplantes.com to see the

electronic devices recommended by CityPlantes.

b) Spray-N-Grow Stimulant:Most indoor gardeners and general

horticulturists know this product. It is a

mixture of micronutrients that help the plant

better assimilate its

food by recreating

a harmony between

m a c ro - e l e m e nt s

and micronutrients.

The product

allegedly contains

other benefi cial compounds, but no detail

is provided. I suggest using this product by

increasing the dosage to 15-20 ml/litre.

Site: www.spray-n-growhydroponics.com.

c) Nutrilife® SM-90SM-90 is an exceptional product made

by Nutrilife® Plant Products. SM-90 is an

excellent product to use

in soil or hydroponics,

at the root level. It

is also excellent

as a foliar spray.

You can use it

preventively, at half

the recommended

dosage, or directly on a site

where plant tissue has been damaged to

prevent a viral or bacterial infection. I have

never seen the technical specs of this product,

but I believe it contains citrus enzymes

and plant oils, among other ingredients.

It is, really, a biological alternative to H2O2

(hydrogen peroxide), which will not harm

benefi cial bacterial life.

Site: www.nutrilifeproducts.com.

d) Advanced Nutrients’ B-52Made by Advanced

Nutrients, B-52 is a

complete B complex

vitamin (meaning

that it contains

all existing 52 B

vitamins), providing

for a non-problematic growth. It can be

dissolved in the water reservoir or sprayed

II – Managing pH or the Alkalinity or Acidity of the Nutritive SolutionThe pH (hydrogen potential) is the ratio

between the acidity and alkalinity of a solid of

a liquid. pH is expressed by a number between

1 (acidic) and 14 (alkaline), neutral pH being 7.

The pH of the

substrate (or soil)

and that of the water

given must thus be

adapted to the crop.

Preferences vary

from plant to plant.

Some enjoy more

acidity than others

(heather plants love

acidic soils and acidic

leaves substrates),

while some handle

alkaline environments better (such an vine,

thriving on calcareous soils). The micro-

organisms in charge of transforming the soil’s

nutrients (humus) are also hindered by a non-

adapted pH. Most plants live in environments

with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. A pH of 6 is an

acceptable average for most plants and allows

for the proper assimilation of phosphates and

micronutrients. Cuttings do not root as well

with too high a pH (above 6).

City water is rarely acidic. It is often neutral (pH

7), but sometimes is contains limestone and has

a pH of 8.5 and above. It is often “enriched”

with chlorine. Plants can handle chlorine, but

in very low concentrations. One good way

to get quality watering water is to

draw it in advance and to let it

sit for 24 hours. The chlorine it

contains will evaporate. You will then be able

to regulate its pH after adding nutrients. Liquid

nutrients are acidic and will lower the pH.

1) Correcting the Acidity or Alkalinity Level in Your Solution* To increase pH: in the (rare!) case where

your tap water is overly acidic, pH Plus (pH Up:

alkaline liquid) can increase the pH value.

* To decrease pH: to decrease the water’s pH,

use a light dose of pH Down (acidic liquid).

For example: for 20 litres of tap water at pH

7, 3 millilitres of Ph Down will decrease the pH

towards 6.5.

* Our Advice:Pour corrective products (pH Up, pH Down)

in a lot of water, not the opposite, or you run

the risk of getting burnt. Water poured into a

concentrated base or acid can instantaneously

“boil” and spray droplets all around. In case

of accidental skin contact, rinse immediately

under running water.

When you add pH Down to the water, it fi rst

binds to alkaline molecules. When most of it is

transformed, the action of the pH corrector is

all of a sudden increased. It can fi nd no more

molecules to bind to. The pH’s value drops

much faster, even though you are adding less

acid. You must thus proceed with caution for

a fi rst correction and remember the quantities

you used. Luckily, the pH of drinking water

is quite stable, so the required pH corrector

quantities should not

vary much for the

same location.

There are many types of

devices to measure a solution’s

pH: special hydroponic liquid test,


PLANT HEALTH

Phot

os: E

coSy

stem

& D

.R.

coloured lab test paper (litmus paper), pool

water testing kits, soil testing kits, and the more

practical electronic models now available.

2) In all cases, an electronic pH-meter is a good investment.To choose a good pH-meter, make sure it has

the following:

- Two calibrating points at pH4 or pH10 and

pH7 (leave the active part of a new electrode

in water for one hour before calibrating the

meter);

- Quality electrode: allows a better stability

of readings;

- Easily replaceable electrode, sold at the point

of sale;

- Easy-to-read display;

- Number of batteries (if battery-powered).

pH-Meter Maintenance:- After each use, carefully rinse out the

electrode’s active part with tap water;

- Leave a few drops of storage liquid (or tap

water, no distilled water!) in the cap before

putting it back on the electrode;

- Never allow the electrode to dry up. If this

happens, recalibrate as you would for a new

electrode.

How To Detect the End of an Electrode’s Life- It is impossible to calibrate it to pH4 or pH10,

because the display no longer reaches these

values with the calibrating liquid.

To fi nd out more: www.cityplantes.com, call

01133-1-46648359 or send your comments by

fax at: 01133-1-46647753.

directly on the foliage.

Site: www.advancednutrientsonline.com.

There are many other

products that answer

precise problems and

situations: it is up to

you to evaluate your

plants’ needs. The short

product list above is also

available from other

manufacturers than

those mentioned. What

must be understood is

that no matter which

manufacturer you

prefer, it is imperative

to provide your plants

with some input of

these ingredients if they are to provide you

with superior, problem-free results.

PLANT HEALTH

Photos : General H

ydroponics & D

.R.

➤ What Is Fulvic Acid?

Millions of years ago, prehistoric

plants and animals were buried

in our planet’s various geological

metamorphoses and were

transformed through life’s ecological

cycles. Buried many thousands of

metres deep and transformed into

carbon, some of these deposits have

formed “Diamond Nectar”. Others

were pushed to the surface during the

ice age and make up what we now call “leonardite”. In the depths

of New Mexico’s ancestral lands, an extraordinary leonardite

deposit formed. It contains natural organic elements composted

for millennia, which are readily available to plants. This deposit is

carefully used and natural compounds called humus are extracted

from it. Soluble humus (part of the fulvic and humic acids group)

contain compounds that enrich the nutritive solution and a great

quantity of growth-promoting elements. General Hydroponics’

research team has tested over 300 different sources of leonardite

from all around the world before offering you the one with the

most effective properties.

Diamond Nectar is an exclusive fulvic acid extract, fi lled with organic

and mineral substances which plants need. It is a stimulant for all

growth phases. Because it acts as a regulator and as a chelating

agent and because it has a great ionic exchange ability:

– It improves the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients by converting

those nutrients into easily assimilated particles.

– It delivers nutritive elements to all parts of the plant: roots, stems,

foliage, fl owers and fruit.

– It offers gardeners the benefi ts of a natural organic element in

liquid form.

– In hydroponics and soilless cultivation, it helps create an

environment that more closely resembles

soil.

Diamond Nectar can be used on any

cultivated plant: ornamentals, culinary

and medicinal, fruits, vegetables, trees,

etc. It can be used in hydroponics, in

soilless cultivation and in soil, in the

nutritive solution or as a foliar spray.

Diamond Nectar is an additive that should be used with complete

fertilizers. Combined to traditional feeding programs, it will give

you vigorous plants, earlier and more abundant yields and, of

course, the quality of fl avour and aroma that you have come to

expect from our products.

➤ Application: 2 to 3 ml/l during all growth, fructifi cation

and fl owering stages. Add it to the nutritive solution for any

substrate, soil mix, in soilless cultivation or in hydroponics.

➤ Beware: Diamond Nectar is an acid: it will lower your solution’s

pH. Pour it in the water before correcting its pH. The dosage can

be increased at will. We have found, however, that above 20 ml/l,

saturation is reached, which could slow down plant growth.

- G.H.

High Quality Fulvic Acid: An Organic, Natural Bio-stimulant Diamond Nectar

by General Hydroponics


HYDROPONIC CLASSICS 4Grown in a RainForest system with One Part and Diamond Nectar

Daystar AC

®

3 Super Cool New features!

Beat the Heat.

®

All New Fully Sealed!

Built-in socket with protective wire channel.

Includes 15 feet of heavy-duty lamp cord.

New gasketed lens system for a sealed reflector.

For an authorized retailer near you visit

hydrofarm.com or call 800.634.9990

—Horticultural Products®—


Photos: Atm

osphere & D

.R.

TECHNOLOGY

When the great French actress Arletty, in 1938, uttered the line above, in Marcel Carné’s Hotel du nord, she could not know that it would become the symbol of an entire era and a leitmotiv of movie trivia for decades to come. And she certainly could not know that one of the most important manufacturers of fans and carbon fi lters in Canada would be named Atmosphere some sixty years later, in 1998 and that, for your garden’s sake, you should trust Atmosphere!

Atmosphere Fans? What For?In an indoor garden, exhaust fans are required to regulate the stagnant air saturation, temperature and humidity rate. This is not only true in a garden room: the WHO recently revealed that 5% of the annual mortality rate in the poorest African countries is linked to domestic pollution caused by the poor evacuation of combustible fumes from homes (see our “Notes & News” section at page 14). These 5% of deaths could easily be prevented with a proper indoor ventilation system.

The role of exhaust fans is to help absorb and evacuate the warm, humid and stale air from a closed garden space, and to thus allow this contaminated air to be replaced by fresh air from the outside. Diffusing a light breeze within the cultivation perimeter also helps to control the temperature in the closed space and lowers the humidity rate while providing the plants with comfort, invigoration and added strength. Manufacturers indicate the fans’ power by estimating the volume of extracted air in cubic feet per minute (ft3/min) or CFM. To calculate the rating required for a fan to change all of the air in the garden in fi ve minutes, you must calculate your room’s volume [(height x width) x length] and divide the result by fi ve. Always opt for a fan that is slightly more powerful than the

result you’ve arrived at, rather than buying one with the exact proper strength.

In the beginning, when it was created in 1998, Atmosphere manufactured and distributed lighting systems adapted to warehouses and large surfaces. The company eventually specialized in building and installing lighting systems designed specifi cally for greenhouses and indoor horticultural spaces. Clients rapidly expressed their needs for adequate ventilation systems, and Atmosphere responded with the distribution of sophisticated ventilation systems designed specifi cally for the horticultural market. One thing leading to another, after years of intense research and extremely advanced precision testing, Atmosphere opted to design and manufacture its own ventilation equipment. Atmosphere’s products’ structure, materials and fi nish make them the most revolutionary company with the highest quality product on the market today.

Does your blower fan have an

Atmosphere look?

By B. L. and V. Green

(*) “Atmosphere? Atmosphere?... Have I got an atmosphere mug?” is the most

famous and unforgettable catchphrase in French cinema, similar to what “I love the

smell of napalm in the morning” (from Apocalypse Now) is to the American cinema.

*

Phot

os: D

.R.

Technical And Manufacturing Quality

Make All Th e Diff erenceAtmosphere seriously studied how to provide gardeners with a fan whose fi nish will ensure the longest lifespan. The coating used is similar to that used in the aeronautics industry to protect the metallic components exposed to the harshest outdoor weather conditions. The metallic powder coating is heated in extreme sterilization conditions – it provides a strong protection for all possible uses of the equipment. Three techniques are used for this fi nish: solid carburizing, electrodeposition chromium coating, or HVOF (high velocity oxygen-fuel). The latter is still rarely used; empirically, it provides the same qualities as hard chromium. For the reinforced metallization of Atmosphere products, a device brushes the metallic powder on the external surface and heats the particles to melt them onto the surface, allowing them to bind together and to create a physical deposit, which will produce a hard, dense and uniform protective coating.

* Atmosphere Vortex Powerfans – Inline Duct FansThese inline fans have been designed for reliability, effi ciency and high performance. They are manufactured with superior quality steel and a metallic powder coat paint fi nish, (see above). Sizes offered on the North-American market vary from 10 to 30 cm in duct diameter. Speed controllable and balanced motors with permanently lubricated ball bearings ensure a vibration-free operation. Manufactured in Canada by Atmosphere, the Vortex Powerfans are also the fi rst inline duct fans to be sold with a power cord, ready to be plugged in, installed by the manufacturer. They also feature a ten year warranty.

TECHNOLOGY

Photos: Atm

osphere & D

.R.

* Atmosphere’s V-Series Inline Duct Fans

Rugged and quiet, these mix fl ow impeller fans rapidly evacuate warm, humid and stale air from your indoor garden while maintaining control over humidity and temperature. If it’s CFMs you’re looking for, 11 models are offered from 30 cm to 610 cm and deliver from 2100 to 7500 CFMs with the

minimum amount of sound and maximum performance and reliability. Atmosphere’s V-Series are offered from 120 Volt / 60 Hz to 460 Volt, 3 phase / 60 Hz.

Installing An Air ExtractorWhen a room is not well ventilated and

humidity stains develop on walls or furniture, the exchange of air must be increased. The same goes for plants: a garden that is not well ventilated will favour the development of fungal diseases on plants. Lack of air will also impede the plant’s respiration. Imagine breathing in polluted air, saturated with dust particles and microbes. To avoid this, opening the windows more often will not suffi ce: permanent ventilation must be set up with the installation

of an air extractor. The same goes for plants. Here is the practical advice found on the real estate site Explorimmo.com on how to install a fan inside a room:

“There are many possibilities. First, you must choose a spot. A static extractor can be installed on a wall or a window. For a motorized extractor, you will have

a choice between mounting it on a wall or on a fi xed glass pane, for example on a transom. This type of extractor is

usually used for a bathroom, a back kitchen or a basement. A static extractor, however, can be placed anywhere.

Whether on a wall or on a window, the installation requires care. It is better to use the services of a glazier if you opt for the window installation. He will know how to cut the glass pane and how to place the extractor so that it is completely air-tight.

For wall-mounted extractors, you will most likely have to drill through a load-bearing wall. This type of work is done using a large cement drill bit, which can be rented. It is often done quickly, but it is always better to have a mason do it.

After verifying that there is no water, waste or electrical conduit or wiring, the wall must be drilled through-and-through, and a cylindrical hole must be cut to the exact size of the extractor. A PVC conduit will cover the entire length of the hole. The air extractor’s grills are fi xed to both ends of this conduit.

If the wall is hollow, start by cutting the inside wall (in the house) and fi nish with the outside. In all cases, make sure to insulate the conduit and around the extractor. One last note: when choosing the location of the extractor, verify the direction of dominant winds, and place the conduit so that rain and dust cannot penetrate it. If need be, place the conduit so that it angles down towards the outside.”

Sources: atmosphere.com, hydroponix.com, explorimmo.com and

strategis.ic.gc.ca.

Vortex 600

Vortex 1000


TECHNOLOGY

Photos: LED G

row-M

aster Global LLC

Standard, Pro, and Pro-5 Horticultural LightingWith over 10 years of experience developing LED (light-emitting

diode) lighting products, the engineers at SolarOasis have brought

many innovative LED lighting solutions to consumers around the

world. Their advanced LED plant lighting line has been proven in

consumer, commercial, and research applications around the world

for years.

The LGM Grow Light Series1) LGM1 Standard Bar The standard bar is designed for leafy plants, from seedling to early

vegetative stage where compact vegetative growth is desired. This

is perfect for an under-counter unit or easily mounted anywhere

you would like to grow.

2) LGM3 Professional BarFor all plants, the LGM3 bar is appropriate from seedling to

fl owering. The professional version is intended for applications

where multiple Gro-Bars will be used to grow a single large plant.

It encourages robust, compact growth and actively promotes

blooming.

3) LGM5 Pro-5The Pro-5 bar has all of the benefi ts and features of the professional

bar with a 100% increase in light energy. It promotes the growth

and development of all photosynthesizing organisms (plants, algae,

bacteria) commonly found in hobby, commercial, and scientifi c

areas of interest. This is the highest performance, most spectrally-

rich plant light source in the world.

Unique benefi ts of the LGM series:

• cuttings root more easily;

• lower costs;

• energy effi cient;

• longer bulb life;

• no ballast;

• no refl ector;

• targeted light delivery;

• low heat generation;

• low voltage DC;

• safe for kids and pets.

In 2007, the Pro-5 is Raising the BarIn 2007, SolarOasis will raise the bar for LED plant lighting. The

Pro-5 features a nearly 100% increase in light energy over standard

products. LED Grow Master Global LLC introduces the newest

professional grow light product on the market. Built upon SolarOasis

patented and patent-pending horticultural light technology, the

Pro-5 model offers many unique benefi ts to consumers, which in

turn brings tremendous sales opportunities to retailers.

After twelve months of product development and real-world

testing by independent, expert horticulturalists, the product line is

being offered to the general consumer market.

The Pro-5 Grow Light Product Delivers Signifi cant Benefi ts to Both Consumers and Retailers:1) Consumer Benefi ts:• Pro-5 features nearly a 100% increase in light energy over Pro light;

• Same small, easy to mount and maintain product housing;

Horticultural Lighting: LGM Grow Light™ Series and Pro-Gro Arrays™*


TECHNOLOGY

Phot

os: L

ED G

row

-Mas

ter G

loba

l LLC

TECHNOLOGY• Low operating temperature adds little to no heat to growing

environment;

• No noisy cooling fans;

• Promotes growth, health, and blooming all in a single product;

• Extremely low energy use, just a little over 9 watts;

• Long service life without degradation of light quality or quantity;

• Low voltage operation offers greater safety in wet environments

2) Retailer Benefi ts:• Competitive, affordable MSRP* means higher sales potential;

• Proven, patented technology makes “new” product and methods

more attractive to consumers;

• Easy transition from current product to LED Grow Master product,

fi rst as supplemental lighting, then as primary lighting;

• Deep wholesale discounts offer large profi t potential with each sale;

• Single light bar kit provides low-cost entry point that allows

cautious consumers to try the technology.

(* MSRP = Manufacturer’s suggested retail price)

The Ruby Grow Light Bar and the Pro-5 Professional KitThe Ruby Grow Light Bar is offered in three models and several

packaging options, to meet the needs of all consumers. The

standard and professional models have three LED clusters, which

will provide expert results in most hobby growing situations. The

Pro-5 professional model has fi ve LED clusters for maximum light

output for the serious hobby grower as well as most commercial

growing situations. Each kit is packaged with instructions and

everything necessary for immediate product use. Optional multiple

light bar kits are available for attaching two to eight light bars in

series to a single or dual power supply. Multiple light bar kits save

the customer money, and provide for an easier setup.

The SolarOasis SunMountThe SolarOasis SunMount growing system makes it easy to mount

multiple Grow-Bars when lighting larger growing areas. It is

made of two pieces of strong, lightweight aluminum sheets. The

SunMount requires no assembly. Each grow bar attaches securely

with provided hardware, and a single SunMount will hold from

four to eight Gro-Bars.

The LED Grow Master bars on each SunMount are aligned in a

staggered confi guration, ensuring maximum light delivery to

your plants. With Gro-Bars attached, a SunMount measures

approximately 60 centimetres on each side. Special mounting tabs

allow multiple SunMounts to be bolted together and make hanging

a breeze. (Grow bars are not included).

Visit www.led-grow-master.com. The company LED Grow-Master

Global LLC has now an Eastern Canadian distributor: Brite-Lite

Group, www.hydroponix.com or 1 800 489-2215.

*Source: Jonathan D. Cardinale, from LED Grow-Master Global LLC

LED Grow Master Specifi cations: Standard, Pro, and Pro-5 ModelsPlant grow light effi ciency greater than 90%

Targeted plant growth & health peak spectrum greater than 95%

Operating temperature less than 11 degrees Celsius above ambient temperature

Operating life 8 years estimated, with 0% plant light production degradation

Power consumption 6 to 9 Watts

Power supply international 120/240

Electrical hazard no

Fire hazard no

Glass breakage hazard no

Peripheral support needed no

Ultra-violet light emissions no

White-light pollution no

Environmental impact minimal

Time to full output after power interruption instant full power

Confi gurations considerations for deployment no

Fixture mounting considerations user option: LED Grow Master products are easily mounted within foliage either vertically or horizontally.

LGM1/LGM3 3 arrays of 38 HBLED’s*LGM5 5 arrays of 38 HBLED’s Target the light frequencies that plants rely on for growth and health.

Bar weight Standard and Pro 0.3 kg, 56 x 6.3 x 2.5 cm

SunMount 0.7 kg, 71 x 15 x 2.5 cm

Power adaptor 0.3 kg, 7.6 x 7.6 x 18 cm

(* HBLED = High Brightness Light-Emitting Diode)

“The Indoor Gardener Magazine is fi lled with very good info, everything is there!“

“C.B.”, January 2007http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums

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nter

natio

nal F

lora

INDUSTRY NEWS

International Flora, the Montréal Garden

Festival, answers its visitors’ request: looking

for a greater opportunity to meet garden

designers and their suppliers to discover,

learn and better explore the various concepts

showcased in Flora’s gardens.

“Fifteen Days of Residential Gardens” was

created as a discussion forum on the experience

of garden design. During the event, visitors can

interact with garden designers to better understand the conception

of a garden, further explore their own research and share some of

the discoveries they have made over the years.

During this event, many garden suppliers will be on hand to present

the most recent market trends, as well as the latest innovations in

response to the increasing demand for sustainable development and

innovative materials. They will be able to provide you with solutions

for questions which, until today, seemed unanswerable.

All topics will be discussed: sensible choice of

vegetation, materials or accessories, fountains and

water features, respectful use of fertilizers and

insecticides. You will get all of the information

essential for the conceptualization of a garden.

You have questions? You will get the answers!

You have ideas? You will be directed to the right

opportunity.

Check out the listings for “Fifteen Days of Residential

Gardens” in early July, and you will fi nd out how The

Indoor Gardener Magazine, its distributors and partners in the

Quebec hydroponic industry will be present on Flora’s exhibition site

this summer! This forum on the experience of garden design will

be presented from July 27 to August 12, at the Lock Gardens of the

Quays of the Old Port of Montréal, at the foot of McGill Street. An

invitation for innovation! www.fl oramontreal.ca.

– J.M. (with B.B.)

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Photos: D.R

.GROWING EXPERIMENT

The sea of green method was developed in the Netherlands to save electricity; it leads to a higher yield and to a balanced production in indoor gardening.

The Technique Associated to a Perpetual GardenSummed up, the technique is to fl ower many young plants simultaneously. Since there is almost no growth phase, the technique is profi table for commercial producers in the Netherlands. The technique also allows for one additional crop each year and saves electricity – a factor that soon becomes obvious when we compare this technique with others.

I am here proposing a most effi cient variation on the theme, the sea of green method associated with a continual-harvest or perpetual garden. The perpetual garden technique entails the regular introduction of a predetermined number of plants in the garden, so as to harvest regularly, without

interrupting the perpetual growth and fl owering cycle. To use this technique properly, you will need two garden rooms. Use the fi rst room to grow mother plants and to root cuttings. Use the second room only to fl ower the cuttings that have rooted in the fi rst one!

You could use the same room, but the two spaces must then be completely light-tight, because each growth stage will require its own light schedule: 18/6 for the vegetation room part, and 12/12 for the fl owering section.

Growth RoomChoose two or four quality mother plants. Under a 400 watt metal halide lamp, you should be able to get about ten

cuttings each week. Always keep the mother plants under proper lighting: metal halide or high pressure sodium, 400 watt and above. In the vegetative growth room, you will need to set up a space for the cuttings to root. This is done under neon (cool white). The high intensity discharge lamp’s rays should not come in direct contact with the cuttings. Make sure that the light emitted by the metal halide lamp or the high pressure sodium lamp used for the mother plants’ growth is deviated and does not directly reach the cuttings, or use a mobile system.

Please note: The cuttings made in the vegetation room are directly transferred to the fl owering room as soon as they have a decent root system (approximately 14 days); in this way, there is no growth delay for these plants. This growth is achieved in the same room, but using the mother plants’ light to grow the rooted cuttings. Using this technique, however, the added growth time can give you plants that grow height-wise rather than width-wise because of the closeness of plants in the fl owering site. It can be preferable to wait until you have enough experience with the technique before allowing this extra growing time. Make attempts, and make sure the plants do not have to compete overmuch.

Flowering RoomFor a sea of green, putting four plants in 30 square centimetres is acceptable. For example: we know that a 400 watt lamp covers a surface area of 130 by 130 centimetres, so we can place 60 to 70 plants under it. One the cuttings are well rooted, it is time to transfer the plants to the fl owering room.

In soil, you should use 10 to 15 centimetre square pots. In this case, use a neutral substrate, such as Pro-Mix® Professional and make sure it contains

The Sea of Green Method in a Perpetual Garden

By Paul Henderson

Camellia sinensis

Xanthostemon ruber

GROWING EXPERIMENTPh

oto:

D.R

.

no fertilizer (you will add them yourself).

If you intend to use a drip system, add 10 to 15% perlite to help drainage and improve root oxygenation (the proper use of a drip irrigation system will improve the fi nal yield).

Perpetual TechniqueTake the following example: you have a 400 W lamp, and hence a 130 square centimetre surface area, allowing you to have up to 64 plants. You want, for example, to harvest every week, without ever breaking the regular perpetual cycle. You must calculate the fl owering time and the number of cuttings to introduce at each interval to avoid breaking the perpetual cycle.

Here is a mathematical formula to solve this issue:

Flowering time ÷ interval = garden section

So,

Garden section ÷ number of plants – number of plants to

add at each interval

or, for those who, like me, have trouble with math:

Plant fl owering time (60 days, for example) ÷ desired interval between each harvest (in our case, 7 days) = number of

garden sections

So, up to now:

60 days (of fl owering) divided by 7 days (the interval) give 8.5 garden sections. Round up to 8 (sections).

Then,

divide the number of plants that the site can accommodate (64) by the number of sections (8) and you will get the number of cuttings that must be added every seven days,

the interval defi ned above.

So,

64 plants divided in 8 sections equals 8 cuttings.

All this to say that you can place eight cuttings in each section every seven days for plants that fl ower in 60 days in an area of 130 square centimetres, for a total number of plants of 64. Sixty days after the initial introduction, the

Photos: D.R

. & H

ydrofarm

perpetual cycle has begun! You will only need to harvest the eight mature plants and replace them by new plants, and so on. Always plan to root the cuttings two weeks in advance. You now hold the recipe of a perpetual sea of green!

A Few NotesI voluntarily did not discuss nutrient dosage, because this technique does not require a specifi c dosage. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Here is, however, a reminder of some factors to take into account in a greenhouse:

• Maximum room temperature: 30°C at the apex, right under a lamp,

• Minimum room temperature: 24°C at the roots. Use a mercury thermometer and plant it in the substrate to get this reading.

• Solution temperature: minimum = 18 to 20°C, maximum = 23°C. Oxygenate the nutritive solution using pumps and air stones designed for this purpose.

• pH: in soil: 6.2; in hydroponics, 5.8;

• Ppm and electro-conductivity (EC): in soil (using Pro-Mix®), onset of growth at 450 ppm – EC 1; gradually increase

week after week up to a maximum of 800 ppm – EC 1.8; during fl owering, continue at 800 ppm – EC 1.8. In hydroponics: start at 500 ppm – EC 1.1; increase each week up to 1,100 ppm – EC 2.2.

Always look at the messages sent by your plants’ foliage. Signs of over-fertilization include curling leaves, yellowing leaf parts, borders that turn brown or yellow. If this happens, rinse off for 24 hours using pure water (no nutrients), and don’t forget to adjust the water’s pH. Afterwards, restart the nutrient program, using 100 ppm less than during the last application. Optimal fertilization makes the ends of leaves a little black and dry.

Vigorous PlantsTo keep your plants short and vigorous, use fans to make the foliage move about, increase the light intensity by lowering the lamps as close as possible to the plants without burning the canopy, and check the canopy temperature, directly under a lamp.

You are ready for a sea of green! Any questions? Contact me at [email protected].

INDUSTRY NEWS

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Hydrofarm ballasts are giving you the power to grow, and are offering you the kind of extreme power you control! Here are the four main and most successful models in the Hydrofarm ballasts family. – R.K.

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GROWING EXPERIMENT

Thank youGrotek!

Why do I have to use all these bottles?

GO SOLO!www.grotek.net

KEEP IT SIMPLE WITH SOLO-TEK FROM !

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Photos: Maisonnneuve Eds, RoN

TO &

D.R

.DISCOVERY

Burning assuredly contributed to destroy hectares and hectares of wonderful forests. Today, it is mostly responsible for a good part of the 35% of greenhouse gas emissions tied to agriculture in general. In tropical countries, where this type of farming is still used in the 21st century, it threatens the already-fragile ecosystems of the primary and secondary tropical forest. Some researchers and scientists, however, argue the opposite side of the issue. They say that nomadic farmers in tropical areas know what they are doing: they know

their environment intimately, and they are aware of the durability of the micro-plots they create. These nomadic farmers thus know that forests naturally regenerate and that the small fi elds they clear here and there will return to their initial forest-state, only with stronger trees and plants, once they are abandoned by farmers.

The Most Ancient Form of Soil LandscapingPrimitive nomadic populations essentially lived on their raised cattle. They would travel hundreds of kilometres, season after season, seeking for new pastures for the herds. When these populations developed a taste, if not a need, for cultivating grain and other fodder for their cattle, they quickly realized that exploiting a fi eld for many successive harvests reaped lower and lower quality harvests. Cultivating the same plot for more than one season, at a time when nobody had the slightest

Health & NutritionSeaside and Spa Treatments Seaside and Spa Treatments in Romaniain RomaniaBy RoNTO

“Where nature is a source of health and

where health is found in nature...”

For the modern human, assaulted by

industrialization, vacation does not only mean

entertainment, but also offer an opportunity

to reject sedentary life, to eliminate stress or

to cure disease. It is thus important to choose

a resort that offers not only relaxation but also

treatment options and seaside spa services.

Romania’s spa resorts are located along the

coast, on lake shores and on mountains,

and they fulfi ll your every wish. Many also

treat nutritional issues. It is easy to reserve a

Romanian hotel on www.traveleurope.com/

roumanie.

The Main Romanian Seaside Spa ResortsThe spa infrastructures of Baile Felix, 9 km

from Oradea, offer treatment options against

infl ammatory and rheumatic, neurological,

metabolic and nutritional issues. Thermal

mineral waters, which are bicarbonated,

sulphurous, rich in calcium and in trace

minerals, mud and the temperate climate

form the work tools of the biotherapists.

Baile Herculane’s resort, whose mineral and

thermal water was noticed as early as the

Roman occupation, is located 40 km from the

city of Drobeta-Turnu Severin. Although is it

located at an altitude of 600 metres, one could

believe it is at 3,000 metres. Its bioclimate

and bicarbonated, calcium-rich thermal water

are the main weapons doctors use against

disease. Among the physical troubles treated:

degenerative, metabolic, infl ammatory and

rheumatic, neurological, gynaecological,

digestive, cardio-respiratory conditions and

post-traumatic musculoskeletal system after-

2 – Slash and Burn AgricultureBy Bruno Bredoux

Slash and burn cultivation is also called burn, burning, slash and burn shifting cultivation and swidden farming. Everybody agrees, however, to say that burning is the most

primitive agricultural technique. It stems from the early history of agriculture, when the fi rst farmers, often nomadic populations, created a fi eld near their camp by using fi re to open up a tree-clad or overgrown plot and turn it into a fl at and arable agricultural land. Today, this ancestral technique using fi re is fuelling an ecological debate.


Phot

os: M

aiso

nnne

uve

Eds,

RoN

TO &

D.R

.DISCOVERY

clue about adding nutrients to the soil, meant deforesting to get to new plots. The quickest and most effective deforestation technique available was to start a managed fi re on a given plot that could thereafter be cultivated. That is how the fallow technique was developed at the same time as the burning technique. Alternating crops on a given fi eld, allowing it to rest for a season or two, revitalized the soil’s nutritive elements.

When the nomadic prehistoric populations started to build themselves a more durable habitat (which usually did not exceed three to fi ve years), they were faced with the need to cultivate a plot for the duration of their stay in their improvised village. This onset of sedentary life also allowed them to quickly learn whether a fi eld would be fertile or not. The most observant farmers

rapidly selected various rapid-growth plant crops to use as an indicator of the land’s fertility. At the same time, they learned that plots that had previously been used as cattle pastures became good farmland: the animals’ droppings had enriched the soil. Much the same way, they learned that crops always grew better on plots previously used by a tribe whose domestic refuse had created a local micro-fertilization. These lessons learned, the primitive farmers were able to abandon slash and burn agriculture

in favour of spending their time locating favourable soils and practicing the rotation of food-producing crops.

In pre-conquest Québec, Iroquoian tribes also mainly practiced slash and burn agriculture. Research has shown that Iroquoian tribes had, for example, mastered the seed selection technique

and the basic principles of forcing, but that they knew nothing of fertilizers or mineral intakes. More than one thousand years prior to the arrival of Europeans, they grew various gourds, corn and beans. They had learned the basic notions of agriculture from the native tribes of the southern and western continent, who were more advanced in this domain. The Native American tribes living around the Great Lakes and the St.Laurence preferred slash and burn agriculture, probably because of the area’s geography: forests were dense and large, and the landscape did not offer the continent’s central and western prairies. Opportunity made the... arsonist! Farming tribes and hunting tribes used barter, and surplus crops were exchanged for skins and furs. With the Europeans’ arrival, agriculture became more settled (although this happened slowly: in 1625, only six hectares of land were cultivated full-time in Québec!).

A Prehistoric Relic Endures in The TropicsThese days, slash and burn agriculture endures in countries with the poorest subsistence farming: in the Philippines, in South-Eastern Asia, in Madagascar, in equatorial Africa and in Brazil, in the Amazon forest area. The technique is the same it was in prehistoric times. After a

effects. Many relaxing

activities are offered in

the area: swimming,

fi shing, mountain-

climbing, hunting or

hiking excursions to

the ruins of Drobeta-

Turmu Severin or

Orsova.

Sovata (60 km from the city of Târgu Mures)

is a spa resort located in the Gurghiu volcanic

massif, at an altitude of 500 metres. The

resort owes its popularity to the heliothermal

qualities of Lake Ursu’s water, which is unique

in Europe: it is peculiar in that its temperature

gets higher in the depths. This property, the

heavy mineral content of the water and its

sapropelic mud, is successfully used in treating

gynaecological and musculoskeletal system

problems, for arthritis, cardiovascular disease,

against sterility and nerve troubles.

The Baile Tusnad resort is located 32 km

from the city of Miercurea-Ciuc. Ferruginous,

chlorine-rich mineral water and ionized air are

recommended for nervous system conditions,

cardiovascular, digestive and endocrinal

diseases.

Sinaia, at the foot of the Bucegi mountains,

has pure, tonic air, containing a large quantity

of negative and ultraviolet ions. Sulphurous,

bicarbonated mineral water is indicated

for endocrinal, rheumatic and digestive

conditions. The atmosphere is ideal to treat

asthenia, nerve illnesses and stress.

Geoagiu Bai, which was also known by the

ancient Romans, is a resort located in a

wooded hilly land, 19 km from Orastie. Its

bicarbonated, calcium and magnesium-rich

water and its ferruginous and iodized mud

are great to treat rheumatic conditions,

post-traumatic musculoskeletal system after-

effects, gynaecological, endocrinal and

dermatological conditions as well as diseases

linked to nutrition.

Three resorts located on the Black Sea, 14 to

19 km to the south of Constantza, the area’s

main city, are Eforie North, Eforie South and

rough clearing of the chosen plot, debris, stumps and branches are burnt, and then

the ashes and remnants are mixed into the soil, which is thus vaguely enriched before being plowed. After a series of harvests and a few seasons, the plot is left to rest for another few seasons. The farmer will return, and will often re-burn the area to

make it cultivable once more. The soil is only enriched organically, through the mixture of ashes and fi re remnants left on it. According to the FAO (Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations), this land-use system is based on a “traditional, year-round, community-wide, largely self-contained and ritually sanctioned way of life”. The FAO also notes that the activity “is still prevalent among tribal minorities in Southeast Asia and South America [but we also notice] a small, declining percentage of African farmers [who still use it].”

The novelty, these days, is in interpreting and studying the tribal custom of swidden agriculture. In the past, the technique was quickly analyzed as an irresponsible

means of exploiting the tropical rain forest rather than as management tool for forested zones. The FAO’s researchers and scientists now see it mainly as a balanced system, favouring the development of sustainable agroecosystems and as a benefi t of sustainable agroecological actions. Researchers also note the benefi ts of mixing species, which encourages the enrichment of the tropical ecosystem. Farmers who use swidden agriculture end up creating a new symbiosis between indigenous forest species and tamed plant species cultivated in deforested clearings and lands. The cultivable plot thus created “refl ects” the forest as best as possible. It has the smallest possible impact on the area’s ecology and on the natural development of the forest system. Slash and burn cultivation, once a pure and simple exploitation of the forest, is becoming an ecological management tool for the tropical rain forest and a deforestation-control tool for the entire world.

Rules To SetIn most cases, however, land regulations and legal frameworks still have to be put in place. Most tropical forest farmers, be they in the Amazon or in South-Eastern Asia, carry no political weight and, more importantly, do not own the lands they burn. In Africa, the situation is different. Tribes may not own the tropical forest lands, but they do have usufructuary rights to these lands. These rights were granted during the colonial era, but they remain in place even in the face of political and economic crises that are all too common on the sub-Saharan continent. Given the lack of interest from the international community in helping out these areas, we can assume that this primitive agricultural technique will remain in use at least for the next few generations.

Sources: FAO (www.fao.org), Agricom.ca,

Dictionnaire historique de la Suisse (http://hls-dhs-

dss.ch) and Histoire du Monde, Volume 1, Première

apparition de l’homme, Maisonneuve Eds., Montréal.

Techirghiol. All three

use the spropelic mud

extracted from Lake

Techirghiol (mud baths

and mud wraps). The

ionized air contains a

high concentration of

atmospheric aerosols

(containing a lot of

sea salt crystal particles) and the large beaches

create the ideal conditions to mix business with

pleasure (rest, sun baths, and “miraculous”

cures!). Neptun and Mangalia are two other

coastal resorts. They offer treatment for

degenerative rheumatic conditions, for joint

and infl ammatory conditions.

Calimanesti-Caciulata, in the Olt Valley,

was Emperor Napoleon III’s favourite resort

because of the

quality of its mineral

water. The climate

is infl uenced by the

nearby Olt River and

Fâgâras mountains.

Its mineral water

gushes from a depth

of 2,500 metres,

and is used to treat digestive, hepato-biliary,

urinary, renal, gynaecological, neural and

endocrinal conditions, as well as sterility.

Some other resorts must be mentioned:

Vatra Dornei (Suceava area), Baile Govora,

Baile Olanesti (Vâlcea), Slânic Moldova

(Bacâu), Buzias (Timis), and fi nally Balvanyos

(Covasna).

Aslan TreatmentAny list of Romanian spa treatments would

be incomplete without a mention of the

treatments developed by Doctor Ana Aslan.

These treatments are based on the biotrophic

properties of two products, Gerovital H3

and Alsavital, which slow down aging. This

treatment is used as a complement in most

Romanian resorts as well as in the Otopeni

clinic, 17 km from Bucharest.

– Source: Roumanie, Rien que pour toi, Autorité

roumaine nationale pour le tourisme, Bucarest, 2003.


DISCOVERYPhotos: D

.R. &

RoNTO

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Photos: Cube Cap, Texas Agricultural Extension Service &

Cornell University

Who Are We?We have been an integral part of the hydroponics community for over

twenty years. We pride ourselves in creating a healthy and environmentally

conscious work area in order to produce high quality products.

The question has always remained: how do we eliminate

hazardous pesticides used against the pesky fungus gnats found

in all growing facilities?

We were unable to fi nd anything on the market that was

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restricted use as they have been proven to cause adverse effects

on the environment, user and product.

We have conducted in-depth testing with our revolutionary

product. The tests conducted have been so successful that the

time has come for us to make it available on a commercial level.

Our ProductThe Cubecap enables you to naturally and effi ciently eliminate

fungus gnats and their root-eating larvae. It is one of the fi rst

environmentally safe solutions available. There are no required

pesticides, larvasides or fungicides. In addition, you are able to

recycle and reuse the Cubecap, thus saving on costs.

Refl ecting the light away from the top of the growing medium

makes it impossible for any swampy green algae to form. Algae fl ourish

in wet, well lit locations. Depriving the rockwool cubes of light prevents

photosynthesis from occurring, in turn eliminating the fungus gnats and

their breeding environment.

Algae can also compete with the plants being grown for the oxygen

necessary for nutrient uptake. When algae decay and die, they can become

detrimental to the plant and to the growing facility by inviting bacteria and

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There are multiple benefi ts in using the Cubecap in your facility, some of

which are increased yields due to the Cubecap’s refl ectability, savings in

water, nutrients and lower room humidity.

Various solutions have been proposed for covering rockwool cubes to

prevent the growth of algae. Unfortunately, several of these solutions

have been proven to have adverse effects on plants, such as limiting the

circulation of oxygen and creating an anaerobic environment, which will

inhibit the plants’ nutrient intake.

Unlike a cover that can deprive a plant of its vital oxygen supply, the

Cubecap’s patented technology allows the necessary air fl ow by way of its

unique vented, hover design.

The Cubecap solution has arrived and is available in a 10 x 10 cm size and

soon 7.6 x 7.6 cm and 15 x 15 cm.

- Indoor / outdoor pest control

- 100% environmentally safe

- Recyclable

- Guaranteed low price for high quality product

- Easy online ordering.

– Eve Bettan

A New Revolutionary Product Against Fungus Gnats: The Cubecap

Fungus gnat: adult and larva.

Fungus gnat injury on a poinsettia’s stem.

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Photos: General H

ydroponics & W

orm’s W

aySHOPPING

FloraBlend by General Hydroponics FloraBlend is a vegan compost tea that is made from a select

blend of plants, seaweeds, micronized rock powders and leonardite. Our unique fermentation process produces essential enzymes, metabolites, organic acids and carbohydrates, all in a liquid that immediately works with your plants to improve nutrient balance and vitality.

FloraBlend encourages increased root growth and lush foliage with shorter internodes, resulting in a sturdier plant with the ability to support higher

yields. During fl owering, FloraBlend promotes increased blossoms and heavier fruits, while enhancing the fl avor and aroma of your favorite fruits and vegetables.

– L.C.

Possibilities are Endless with Plug’n’GrowCoordinate multiple aspects of your indoor growing

environment and maintain optimal conditions with Intelligent Growing Systems from Plug’n’Grow. From single- and dual-output multi-functional atmospheric controllers to timers, load switchers, alarm systems and more, Plug’n’Grow offers an innovative line that’s highly-regarded for ease of use, quality

construction, accuracy and reliable performance. Plug’n’Grow also provides a full-service, one-year warranty on each item and technical support that’s second-to-none. Stop in a garden center to fi nd the Plug’n’Grow product that’s right for you.

– K.B.

Dutch Nutrient Formula Free of unnecessary dyes and additives, plants love getting

only what they need from the Dutch Nutrient Formula. Trusted by gardening enthusiasts for more than 20 years, DNF nutrients and supplements are readily assimilated by plants and concentrated to give you the most bang for your buck. Pick up the two-part DNF Grow (A: 2-0-2; B: 0-1-3) and Bloom (A: 3-0-3; B: 1-0.5-3) nutrient series as well as Green (3-2-0) and Bloom Fortifi er (0-50-30) supplements

from your favorite hydroponic retailer. – K.B.

Cloners Make Great Copies Hydroponic hobbyists can save space and money with the four- and eight-site aeroponic Daisy Cloners from Botanicare. These simple units make propagation effortless by creating and keeping an atmosphere that’s perfect for rapid and healthy root development. Daisy Cloners come with a submersible pump, samples of Hydroguard Bio-Fungicide Water Treatment, net cups and more. Ask your local year ‘round garden supplier for additional details on these and other fi ne Botanicare products.

– K.B.

Plants Rise and Shine with a Sunleaves Sunrise Stay on the cutting edge of fl uorescent lighting technology with a super-slim Sunrise from Sunleaves Garden Products. Each unit hangs horizontally or vertically and includes a dual 96-watt Sunleaves VitaLUME PLUS TT96 high-output tube that emanates a balanced 6,500K daylight spectrum perfect for propagating and promoting continuous vegetative growth. Low-heat Sunrise fi xtures mount anywhere and have a distinctive plug-in transformer to reduce their overall weight. There’s a two-year warranty on the fi xture and one-year on the tube, so you can count on innovation as well as dependability. Please visit www.sunleaves.com for more information on Sunrise systems and replacement TT96 tubes.

– K.B.

A Great All-purpose Pump For ponds, hydroponics and more, the submersible Mondi Utility Pump gets water moving, circulating 1,585 gallons per hour with a water-cooled, one-half horsepower motor. This heavy-duty pump comes with a 3 centimetre fi tting to accommodate a standard garden hose as well as a customizable fi tting for applications requiring smaller tubing. The UL-Listed Mondi Utility Pump is also covered by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

– K.B.


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SHOPPING

Rechargeable Sprayer Makes Misting Manageable

With the battery-operated Rechargeable Sprayer, you can say goodbye to back-breaking weed treatments and tiptoe

foliar feedings. This practical gardening gadget has a three-

liter reservoir, 14.4-volt Ni-Cad battery, telescoping wand that extends

up to two metres, and an adjustable shoulder strap to ease transport. The Rechargeable Sprayer will run continuously for up to 40 minutes, depending on the setting you choose. It’s the perfect plant power washer! Available at garden centers nationwide.

– K.B.

Dutch Master Advance Grow A+B and Advance Flower A+BDutch Master Advance, from the famous Australian

based, global company that manufactures “clinically proven” and “performance based” plant nutritional products forhydroponics and horticultural applications, is a revolutionary breakthrough in hydroponic plant

nutrition. Advance incorporates the fi rst targeted use of Krebs Cycle Metabolites in hydroponic plant nutrition. These Krebs Metabolites (selected amino acids and enzymes, etc.) are designed to help induce the plant into what is termed short cycling. The two formulations of Advance, Advance Grow and Advance Flower are tailored specifi cally to enable maximal development and growth from the vegetative and fl owering stages of your plants.

– E.S.

Frost Protection Plus! Protects Your Plants From Frost and DroughtIf you worry about your plants because of an unstable weather when you have just transplanted them outdoors, you can stop worrying using Rambridge’s line of products designed to help plants adapt to the highs and lows of extreme weather. Frost Protection PLUS! helps plants

survive in harsh conditions and fi ght against drought, heat, transplantation stress and, of course, frost. It can be applied through a foliar spray or as a soil drench. Front Protection PLUS is ideal to remove

the stress of freshly transplanted plants. – B.D.

Dr. Node’s Keep ‘Em Short Keeps Your Plants Short And DenseThis fertilizer has been specially formulated to control your plants’ size and to act on the plant’s excess growth. You can start using it at the very onset of the fl owering cycle; you should see a difference by the following week. The product works because of a certain number of proteins chosen to stop the height while managing the proper development of the plant’s density. Your plants will remain thicker and more compact. Rambridge’s Dr. Node’s Keep ‘Em Short is not the most organic product out there, but it will be much appreciated by balcony gardeners.

– B.D.

B-52: Bomb Your Plants With B VitaminsVitamin B-1 is essential for plants, but seven sources of B vitamins is even better. Advanced Nutrients’ B-52 acts like a bomber, releasing its B vitamins onto your plants. The product supplies an effi cient concentrate of essential B vitamins for potted plants. B-52 has a major impact on bacterial fl ora. It increases the production of folic acid, a B vitamin that helps plants assimilate pantothenic acid (or vitamin B-5), which prevents them from wilting and makes the foliage shiny and thick.

– C.A.

Magic Moisture Crystals Retain And Redistribute WaterIf some of your plants absorb water too quickly, use these crystals from Rambridge. They act as tiny reservoirs that retain water and redistribute it to plants when needed. The Magic Moisture Crystals are organic and non toxic, so if you shun chemical products, you need not worry. Your plants can benefi t from a permanent feeling of freshness with this retention-distribution water system that provides them with a water-reserve equivalent to almost 400 times their weight! If you do not want to water every day, you now know what to do.

– B.D.

Photos: Hydro-Tim

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Q Q Hello, I had some plants that were a week or two from full bloom. They were fl owering tightly, when a huge mistake was made and someone added root stimulator to the reservoir; the plants started to grow again. The tops went away and were replaced by a MASS of branches and leaves, and the fl owers are now stretched out with gaps in between. Some plants lost their entire fl owering (these were under lower wattage). Is there anything that can be done in this type of a situation?

Thank you, Terry J

AA Hey Terry, No matter what you do, it will take time for the plants to switch back to fl owering mode and fi nish properly, I’m

guessing one to three weeks, depending on how far the plants have regressed. You basically need to re-fl ower the plants. (I assume it has happened within the last week or so?). It is important to maintain the light cycle, temperature and humidity at levels appropriate to the fl owering stage. Too much stress right now could cause more damage to the plant.

First of all, fl ush the plants with water (no nutrients or supplements). If you are using a hydroponic system, just fi ll the reservoir with new water. If the plants are in soil, just give them water until it fl ows out of the drain holes. This should help remove any root stimulator that is still present in the soil or reservoir.

Second, mix up your fl owering nutrients the same way as before the error. If your plants are in soil, wait until the soil

Q & A

Biosphere Provides a Rotating Space for 192 PlantsHydro-Times’ Biosphere rotating garden includes a total surface of four square metres (unrolled) lit by a 1,200 watt internal lamp. This garden can contain 192 plants that grow

freely, without interference from atmospheric pressure, following the principle of geotropism. This allows plants to accumulate a maximum quantity of auxins, these plant hormones that ensure a more important cellular elongation and that improve root formation. The rotating system and auxins combines then improve plant growth in width, not in height. The plants thus become more compact and dense, with strong roots and an extremely interesting yield.

– J.F.

Allie’s Wholesale’s Two-in-one BallastAllie’s Wholesale’s electronic ballast fulfi lls the needs of the gardener for both the growth and fl owering cycles. You can use the same ballast for both steps, without the need to switch to an HPS ballast when moving from metal halide lamps to high pressure sodium ones. At the end of the growth cycle, you only need to change the bulb, and voilà! No more hassle to unplug, replug, recalibrate, etc. This ballast has two other benefi ts: it is very light, and the background noise it emits while running has a lower frequency compared to older models. Its actual power is 1,000 watt, but it is advised to use it with 600 watt bulbs and lower to prolong its useful life.

– B.D.

QU ESTIONS & A NSW ERSQU ESTIONS & A NSW ERSTo keep on getting the best service available, send your questions to [email protected]. Our gardeners will answer your questions and comment your remarks.


SHOPPING

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Q & Ahas dried out a bit from when you fl ushed them before adding the nutrient solution. If you are using a hydroponic system, fl ush the system with water (no nutrients or supplements) for 24 hours, then dump that water and add your fl owering nutrient solution. You may wish to add a bloom stimulator like liquid Kool Bloom (http://

www.genhydro.com/genhydro_US/liquidkoolbloom.html) or B’Cuzz Bloom Stimulator (www.atami.com). If you do, use it at half strength to avoid stressing the plants.

These will help remind your plants that is is fl owering time (for soil and hydroponics). Seven days after the bloom (fl owering) nutrients have been given, you may cut off any new growth that is not actively fl owering (the new branches and leaves). Now, this causes stress to the plants, but they should have stabilized enough after

a week. If you have enough room, you may leave the plants alone, but if they are getting too big, trimming is your best option. If you trim, do it all at once (give the plants B-1 the day before). Trimming a little each day would only prolong

the plants’ stress.

As for the stretched fl owers, they may become more compact over the next few weeks, but I really don’t know. I have heard of people intentionally regressing their plants to double-fl ower them for larger blooms, but that is just

what I heard, not what I know.

So to sum up: * Maintain light cycle, temperature and humidity;* Flush the plants; * Feed the plants bloom (fl owering) nutrients and stimulators; * One week later, trim the plants if you wish (give B-1 the

day before trimming); * Water and feed the plants as if nothing happened.

The best advice I can give is to stay calm and keep an eye on the plants. If you want them to fi nish properly, you will have to wait and, in the meantime, keep everything in the garden constant.

All the best, Herb Gardner

QQ Hey! I LOVE the cover of the Jan/Feb issue of this magazine and I was wondering what fl ower that was in the

white vase. Me and the ladies at work would all like to get our hands on this exotic looking fl ower, but I can’t fi nd it in my fl ower identifi cation book. If you have any idea as to what fl ower that is it’d be greatly apreciated (or if you know where I can get seeds or clones). Also one lady would like to know about the vase, but I know that’s a far stretch, lol. Any and all help is apreciated. From one grower to another.

Charles

AA Hi Charles,We are still trying to get in touch with the artist/designer/gardener who did the “cactus garden” at the Flora Montreal 2006 exhibit where the picture of the cover was taken last summer. But this guy never replied to us, until publication... So we assume the plant on the cover is some kind of cactus, or maybe a bromeliad (or bromeliaceae, from the pineapple family), but we are still waiting confi rmation from this guy. If he doesn’t reply to us in the upcomming weeks, we will still have the opportunity to meet him at the next opening of Flora 2007, in about two weeks. And be sure we will question him again about this plant and get back to you then! Meanwhile if any of our readers have an idea, it will be greatly apreciated!

Best regards,R.L

QQ Hi! I read your article on the Bonzai system in volume 2 issue 2 and have read that the gentleman who now runs Bonzai has a light mover available for the unit. I have been trying to purchase one of these movers for some time, but going through the listed distributors has been fruitless. I was hoping you could pass my request along directly to the Bonzai company in hopes they will respond.

ThanksJim

AA Hi Jim,You can contact directly the Bonzai Garden company: 1 450 371-7000. I hope they will be able to help you because I’m not sure if they have a specifi c light mover for the unit. But, in any case, they will certainly be able to tell you where to fi nd the right mover for it. Also, in our May/June 07, you will fi nd an in-depth article on light movers.

Best regards,R.L



Photos: Guy Boily

FLORA 2007

Six weeks before the offi cial

opening of International Flora

2007, I was invited by landscape

architect and artistic director Raquel

Peñalosa to take a morning stroll

through the exhibit’s site. Nestled

between the historic Old Montreal

neighbourhood and the industrial

sight of old grain silos soon to be

converted into luxury condos, the

lots that had been left as is since last

year were coming back to life after

a harsh Québec winter. Everywhere,

perennials, rustic plants, indigenous

plants and squares of greenery

were popping back to life. It was

a convincing way to illustrate the

theme of sustainable development,

a theme at the heart of the Flora

project, very dear to its instigator.

The Flora concept stems from the

following realization, made these

past few years by Raquel Peñalosa,

who formerly worked as a landscape

architect for the Mosaicultures in

Montreal’s Old Port: “The [public]’s

interest is to fi nd the garden at the

heart of a site renovation, along

with the constant care to put the

garden back at the core of a tourist

activity. The garden

becomes the place

where we create and

the space which leads us

to question our relation

to the landscape.” The

concept is enhanced

with outdoor gardens

and residential gardens

used as living room

extensions. Ms. Peñalosa

insists on the fact

that “most residential

gardens in North

America and in

Europe are done

indoors, because

the garden is

begun in February

and March. It

is a completely

artifi cial creation,

where we

s imultaneously

cultivate plants of

all seasons, which we then put on

display until the warmer days.”

The new idea put forward by Flora’s

artistic director is thus to treat the

residential garden as an outdoor

activity: “It means sitting in the

middle of a space that outlines

the private space within the city,

taking it out of its trapped outlook,

provoking the idea that a living

room’s boundaries can be pushed

back towards the city, outwards,

like a green room.” She continued

by developing the idea that the

garden is a cultural icon that leads us

to question our own cultural stand

regarding this activity. Deciphering

this culture means questioning our

way of life outdoors.

The key to this art de vivre is

found fi rst and foremost in the

very current trend, closely linked

to climate changes and other

environmental concerns, of

sustainable development: “We are

also following the axis of sustainable

development, something which will

be more and more developed over

the fi ve years for which Flora is

programmed on this site. The way

we create gardens must encompass

many concerns: water recuperation,

alternatives to pesticides, fl exibility

to make the

garden more self-

sustainable, so

that we do not

have to work at it

constantly, but can

rather observe and

let it go.” We must

also remember,

said Ms. Peñalosa,

that our actions have

a collective impact.

For example, we can use plant

varieties that require less water.

The garden is also built in time,

with revisited gardens, enhanced

with perennial species each year

to complete it and make it more

beautiful. This also offers us a chance

to create a garden at a lower cost.

The Québec public was shocked at

fi rst by the use of perennials and

indigenous plants such as nettles,

digitalis, fern, etc. They are more

used to seeing annuals, to expect

an immediate impact, to see colour

right away and not to need to

come back to it. Up until now, the

industry answered this demand fi rst

and foremost.

On Flora’s windy, exposed site,

however, the perennial species’

survival rate is at 95%. Ms.

Peñalosa insists that “we must

make the public aware that they

need to develop patience, that the

annual plant still has its role to play,

but that they also must showcase

and use the work of nursery artists

on perennial, rustic and indigenous

plants.” Oftentimes, when the

public is asked what a garden is, the

immediate answer is: “A vegetable

patch!” So indigenous edible plants

must also be popularized. “These

plants which are not considered

aesthetically pleasing and interesting

must come back to the forefront, as

was the case in California following

the drought of the late 1980s,

when I worked there. Drastic water

preservation rules were put in place,

lawns were reduced by 70% and a

taste for indigenous plants was

developed. It was a survival issue,

but it is also in those places that the

landscape came to life! California

is now twenty years ahead when

it comes to indigenous plantations.

People here are still in shock! The

mentality change is gaining ground

slowly in the public, but happily,

much faster in nurseries.”

Before we went our separate ways,

we visited the roof gardens, which

have also survived the harsh winter.

Indeed, almost all species are

turning green again in this space

above the small canal waterfall

crossing the site. “My goal is to

give Flora a certain permanence,

to make this site more and more

autonomous over the fi ve years

we will spend here. I want to teach

the public to prepare their garden

indoors during the winter, and then

to alternate with the outdoors.”

Can hydroponics, without turning

into a laboratory setting, bring in

solutions for a permanent garden? “I

think so... as soon as the equipment

becomes more affordable!” said

Ms. Peñalosa to conclude. So, dear

readers, the debate is ongoing!

A Stroll Through the Renewing Flora Gardens

With Raquel Peñalosa, B.L.A.,Artistic Director and Head of Product Development

By Bruno Bredoux

Meanwhile, between June 29 and September 3, make your way to the Locks Garden on the quays of Montréal’s Old Port, www.fl oramontreal.ca.

Urban Romance

Mountain Waterfall by Jardins Aquadesign

TerraSince the launch in 1990, CANNA TERRA VEGA and CANNA TERRA FLORES have quickly become the most widely used fertilizers by professional and amateur growers using soil and soiless mixes. CANNA TERRA guarantees high yields and an easy to use product. A high quality biological end product with no toxic ballast is the result of CANNA’s commitment to quality. Unlike other specialized fertilizers, TERRA fertilizers work quickly, are direct available for the plant and so require little energy for absorption, allowing the plant to concentrate fully on the growing and blooming.

BIO TERRA PLUS & CANNA TERRA:

A perfect combination!

BIO TERRA PLUS is specially designed and formulated for usage with BIOCANNA nutrients as well as TERRA nutrients.

For more information and dealer info please visit www.canna-hydroponics.ca or write [email protected]

CANNA TERRAThe Dutch solution

for growth and bloom

The Indoor Gardener Magazine Volume 3—# 1 (July/Aug. 2007)

Documents

Transcript of The Indoor Gardener Magazine Volume 3—# 1 (July/Aug. 2007)