It is easy to find your way through our catalogue. - BRITE
Transcription
It is easy to find your way through our catalogue. - BRITE
It is easy to find your way through our catalogue. Products are organized into different colour-coded sections such as lighting, growing systems and plant nutrition. You can locate product categories using the table of contents here or check for specific products using the index on page 35. Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Growing systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Soilless gardens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Vertical gardens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Hydroponics and garden components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Nursery pots and baskets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Plant propagation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Soilless growing media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Coco substrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Garden tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 pH & conductivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Irrigation and water treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Pumps & accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Plant nutrition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Nutrients for soilless gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Complementary fertilizers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Natural nutrients. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Plant lighting overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fluorescents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 High intensity bulbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 High intensity light kits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Reflectors and light movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Air quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Fans and ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Environmental controllers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 CO2 management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Plant care and pest control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 30-DAY RETURN POLICY Satisfaction guaranteed! If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, return the item within 30 days in its original packaging together with the sales receipt for exchange or credit. Sorry, no cash refunds. MANUFACTURERS’ WARRANTIES Optimum products We offer a 100%, one-year guarantee on all Optimum products (Hydroponix®, Electronix®, Scientifix®) against any manufacturing defects. Please retain your dated receipt as proof of purchase and proof of warranty period. Check with your store of purchase for details or call 1-800-489-2215. (Does not cover liquids, Head Office 940 bergar Laval (Quebec) H7L 4Z8 TEl: (450) 669-3803 (Montreal area) 1-800-489-2215 Fax: (450) 669-9772 [email protected] All other products Please check individual product packaging for specific warranty details. We will assist customers in returning goods for exchange or repair under warranty. Please retain your dated receipt as proof of purchase and proof of warranty period. In some cases, fees for transport, inspection and repair may apply. Check with your store of purchase for details or call 1-800-489-2215. (Does not Member of: cover liquids, nutrients or misuse or abuse of the product by the customer.) REPAIRS For repairs outside of the warranty period or for repairs not covered by the warranty, check with your store of purchase for details or call 1-800-489-2215. nutrients or misuse or abuse of the product by the customer.) 1-800-489-2215 MC Copyright Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 All rights reserved. Any material contained in this catalogue cannot be reproduced without written permission. Aussi disponible en français www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Shop Brite-Lite/Qué-Pousse Your indoor and specialty gardening experts People are gardening everywhere these days. Some have a large veggie patch in their backyard or local community garden. Many more have plants growing in containers on balconies, patios, indoors on windowsills and kitchen counters, or even in corners of basement workshops. While ornamentals are always popular, the trend towards edible plants is growing by leaps and bounds as we all look for local, safe, nutritious food options that are affordable and accessible year round. At Brite-Lite/Qué-Pousse we have been working hard to make a real difference in the world of gardening since 1969. We take pride in developing and supplying the tools, materials and nourishment that inspire indoor gardeners to grow. Many products also have great applications for outdoor gardeners. On the catalogue pages that follow, we are proud to present our year-round gardening solutions. Lots of options We offer a variety of inert growing media suitable for soil-free, hydroponic gardening, including renewable, environmentally sustainable products such © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 as coir or coco fiber that comes from coconut husks. We also offer all the other tools and equipment needed to control the indoor gardening environment. We have a full range of plant lighting options that literally bring sunlight indoors including new, energy-efficient T5 fluorescent light kits, compact fluorescent bulbs, energy efficient electronic ballasts to power high intensity lights and many new horticultural bulb options. Feeding your garden right, especially a hydroponic water-based garden, requires that you start with good quality water. Our selection of water treatment methods including reverse osmosis systems allow you to choose the option best suited to your needs. When it comes to nourishing your plants, we offer a wide selection of water-soluble nutrients for hydropnic gardens as well as organic fertilizers and amendments suitable for various growing media. We also have many specialty fertilizers. So whether you are growing basil in coco fiber or raising tomatoes with a drip irrigation system, we have options for you. If preventing pest problems or battling an infestation is a priority, we can help you find natural solutions including predators (beneficial insects fighting insect pests) or options such as neem oil that help clean and protect plants before problems start. We’re here to help Our dedication to development is rooted in our commitment to helping you grow big, beautiful plants. We believe that true innovation grows in an environment that supports new ideas. Strong relationships with our customers growing all kinds of plants help us to envision useful, innovative products for the indoor gardener. When you shop in one of our stores, our knowledgeable and experienced staff are ready to offer great personal service. Our outstanding selection provides you with everything you need to get growing. For the address of the store nearest you visit our website at www.hydroponix. com or call 1-800-489-2215. If we do not have a store in your neighborhood, call to ask about our mail order options. Happy gardening! www.hydroponiX.com Grow Rooms Simplified B e g i n n e r ’s G u i d e t o H i g h -Te c h Indoor Gardening S alle de Culture Simplifiée Books If you want to know more about indoor gardening the best place to start is with a good book. GROW ROOMS SIMPLIFIED A basic overview of indoor vegetable gardening for beginners. Answers basic questions with lots of information condensed into short and simple explanations. Covers hydroponic systems, lights, light movers, CO2, environmental controls and much more. 48 pages. (Aussi disponible en français) HYDROCULTURE SIMPLIFIED Everything to grow houseplants and tropicals the hydroculture way. Easy-tofollow instructions and diagrams. 24 pages. (Aussi disponible en français) GARDENING INDOORS by George Van Patten Compact format. Authoritative information and detailed explanations for successful indoor vegetable production. Covers indoor grow rooms, high intensity grow lights, CO2, environmental control, grow media, propagation etc. Hundreds of photos, graphs, illustrations. 356 pages. HOW TO SUPERCHARGE YOUR GARDEN by Graham Reinders and Marseene Mainly. The latest technology and growing techniques are explained. Great ideas for experienced indoor gardeners.128 pages. (Aussi disponible en français) HYDROPONIC FOOD PRODUCTION by Dr. Howard Resh. Complete hardcover textbook for the more advanced hydroponic gardener and commercial growers. Technical, complete, definitive. 528 pages. CULTURE EN INTÉRIEUR by Jorge Cervantes. (French only) Two versions available: MASTER edition, 512 pages, 365 illustrations and BASIC edition, smaller, simplified, pocketbooksize, 448 pages, 240 illustrations. Both provide an excellent overview of indoor gardening techniques. 1-800-489-2215 3 Growing systems Soilless solutions for indoor gardening A little history Lots of options While most garden centres have plenty of options to offer outdoor gardeners, indoor gardening options usually seem pretty limited. At Brite-Lite/ Qué-Pouse we offer all kinds of alternatives to help you succeed gardening indoors. For more than 40 years, we have been championing the advantages that hydroponic gardening techniques have to offer the home hobby gardener. Whether indoors, on an outdoor balcony, deck or patio, hydroponics simply means growing without soil. The role of soil is to provide nutrients and to anchor plant roots. In a hydroponic garden, plants are nourished with a complete nutrient formula and use an inert growing medium to anchor their roots. Hydroponics offers many advantages when compared to gardening with soil indoors: • cleaner • fewer pests • faster growth • higher yields • nutrients are more easily controlled • plants can be grown closer together. In fact, automated hydroponic growing systems have gained widespread popularity in recent years. Whether growing culinary herbs or raising a small scale commercial tomato crop, there are hydroponic systems designed to meet your gardening needs. Hydroponics has been around in various forms for thousands of years. For instance, the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon used hydroponic growing techniques. Hydroponics, as we know it now, really got going in California in the 1920’s. Today it not only helps make indoor gardening a very satisfying hobby, it also plays an important role in food production. In recent years, many of Canada’s large commercial greenhouses have switched to hydroponic techniques for growing lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers and culinary herbs, available year round at grocery and fresh produce stores. Many different growing media can be used for hydroponic gardening including rockwool, clay pellets and increasingly popular options such as coco fibre manufactured from coconut husks. The best choice depends on the type of growing system and the kind of plants being grown. (See page 10-11 for more about growing media.) A plant grown in a hydroponic garden uses less energy to find nourishment than soil-grown plants. More energy is available for leaf and flower production because water and minerals are delivered directly to the plant’s root zone. As a result, yield per square foot is considerably higher in hydroponics, an important consideration when growing in a limited indoor space. What to grow All decorative plants and specialty flowers such as orchids and African violets do very well in hydroponic systems. Most vegetables including leafy greens, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, squash and some fruit such as strawberries also do great in hydroponics. The only plants not generally recommended are root crops such as potatoes or carrots. The best way to get started is by reading as much as you can. Then start on a small scale, learning as you go. Like any other hobby, satisfaction and results improve with experience and the mastering of basic skills. For other helpful tips visit us online at www.hydroponiX. com. your garden in the future, how much time you have available for maintenance, what your budget is and so on. Most hydroponic hobby gardens use one of the following growing techniques. Capillary action: Many smaller hobby hydroponic and hydroculture systems work using capillary absorption by the growing medium to the root system. This works well for small gardens and slow growing plants. Some simple systems also use a wick to draw nutrient solution to plant roots. Ebb & Flow: Also called flood and drain, these systems work by pumping nutrient solution up from a reservoir to a tray. All plants are watered uniformly on a timed cycle, one, two, three, four or more times per day. After the pump stops, the solution drains back into the reservoir, oxygenating itself in the process. Drip Irrigation: In a drip irrigation system, a submersible pump moves the nutrient solution from a central reservoir through irrigation tubes to emitters where it drips onto the growing medium, drains through it, then returns to the main reservoir tank. The emitters regulate the amount of water dripping onto each plant. Clay pellets, coco fiber and rockwool are the most commonly used growing media in these systems. Vertical gardens: Some of the newest gardens combine the trickle irrigation methods with vertical growing arrangements to make the most of available space and light. Aeroponics: Plant roots are suspended in the air or within a closed trough and are misted with nutrient solution. This technology has been proven in experiments at the Land Pavilion of Disney’s Epcot Centre and in NASA space research programs. Today this technology is being applied in innovative ways to systems that both hobby gardeners and commercial growers use with great success. Types of systems SOIL-GROWN Small plant big roots 4 HYDROPONICALLY GROWN Big plant - small roots 1-800-489-2215 There are many different types of soil free gardens. Choosing the one that is right for you depends on what you want to grow, how much space you have, whether or not you will want to expand www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Soilless gardens Options for growing everything from small plants to tomatoes Europ garden Europ offers a simple solution to get maximum results from a compact hydroponic garden. Measures about one meter square and stands 45 cm (18") tall. The slide-action growing chamber and 85-litre solution reservoir let you maintain and control nutrients faster and more efficiently. Made of quality ABS plastic. Ideally suited for a 600-watt light (400 or 430 also suitable). Available in two configurations: • An intermittent irrigation system for use with rockwool grow cubes with drippers, pump and hoses. • A continuous irrigation version for use with clay pellets (sold separately). FHD drip irrigation bucket garden system This new drip-irrigation bucket system comes complete with everything you need to get growing all in one box. The basic 4-bucket kit can be expanded up to a 16-bucket system using the existing reservoir and water pump. The system includes grow baskets, stands, 60-litre reservoir, pump, growing medium and all the necessary fittings and connections. For complete easy-to-follow instructions visit www.extremegrowing.com. Four-bucket add-ons available to expand the basic system. Ion garden Compact and ergonomical, the Ion system is ideal for producing medicinal plants, aromatics, culinary herbs and much more. The unique swivel-action, 35-litre growing tray and 24-litre reservoir lets you maintain and control nutrients faster and more efficiently. Made of quality ABS plastic. Garden measures L 60cm X H 47.5cm X W 35cm (24” X 18.5” X 13.5”) Available in two configurations: • An intermittent irrigation system for use with rockwool grow cubes with drippers, pump and hoses. • A continuous irrigation version for use with clay pellets (sold separately). Clay pellets These attractive smooth brown clay pellets, man-made and fired in high temperature kilns, are popular in drip irrigation, as well as in flood & drain hydroponic sytems. 10 litres, 50 litres Omni drip-irrigation gardens A popular long-proven hydroponic design, this fully-automated, flexible, expandable system operates using the continuous drip irrigation principle. Ideal growing environment to support taller plants! There is a continuous flow of nutrient solution from the reservoir to each grow unit that is filled with clay pellets. The solution then drains back to the reservoir. This ensures proper feeding, watering and aeration for healthy and rapid plant growth. System includes a 32-litre nutrient reservoir, 15” X 24” X 9” (38 cm x 60 cm x 23 cm) with cover, submersible pump, all necessary fittings and tubing, full operating instructions, and double 12" (30 cm) diameter grow units, each good for one, two, or more large plants, or many smaller plants. Grow units and all tubing are made of strong and durable black plastic to prevent algae formation. Growing medium is not included; we recommend clay pellets—each grow unit requires about 10 litres. Start with only a 4-pail system, and easily add up to 20. The basic Omni system can be ordered with 4, 8, 12, 16, or 20 containers. Omni add-on: Additional Omni grow units are available in pairs with all the fittings, hoses etc. to enlarge your existing Omni system. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 5 Specialty hydroponic gardens Larger vertical gardens for experienced growers With the Shark Cage vertical, circular garden anything is possible thanks to its unique design. It allows many plants to grow in a compact growing space while maximizing the use of light. The Shark Cage has no exterior walls, allowing for better temperature control of the growing media and overall growing environment for plants. Better air circulation also makes it easier to control and balance the rate of humidity to help nurture the ideal growing conditions to maximize plant growth. The Shark Cage opens completely to provide easy access to your plants. Optional vertical grow trays are perfect for loose coco grow media such as Mo’Koko or other soilless alternatives. Safety «jaws» act as supports to keep grow slabs or the optional vertical grow trays in place, allowing water to dependably and easily drip through the growing media. The garden is also available with multi-purpose vertical grow trays to hold clay pellets, coco, rockwool cubes, perlite and other loose growing media or to create an aeroponic garden. The garden is illuminated with 360o of light suspended from the special dualflector; a reflector and a deflector all in one that offers an ideal way to keep valuable light inside the garden while providing a venting option to extract any excess heat. The garden kits are easy to assemble, no tools required. Shark Cage gardens are also stackable offering even greater growing flexibility in tall spaces. The units are lightweight (less than 50 pounds) making them easy to transport. • Will never rust. All bolts are made of stainless steel. • Easy mounting. No tools required. • Easy to clean and maintain. • Maximizes use of space. Shark Cage Gardens open completely for easy access to plants. The Shark Cage Garden dualflector acts as a reflector and deflector all in one. Shark Cage Gardens are available in the standard, single level garden suitable to support 24 slabs suspended vertically. Additional units may be purchased to stack up to 3 gardens high. The optional vertical grow trays are available for these gardens. A smaller model is also now available that will support 16 grow slabs. (Grow slabs or other growing media and lights are sold separately.) Shark Cage Gardens are stackable. 6 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Hydroponic garden components The basics to build your own indoor garden Hydroponix reservoirs 150 litres • 300 litres Measuring and mixing your nutrient solution is easy in these rigid, strong, black ABS-molded reservoirs featuring easy-toread graduated measuring marks. Ebb & Flow trays All-purpose, sturdy ABS black plastic moulded gardening trays. Ideal for ebb & flow gardens, trickle irrigation and other gardening projects. Available in the following sizes: 2’ X 4’, 3’ X 3’, 4’ X 4’, 4’ X 6’ and 4’ X 8’. ® 150 litres 2’ x 4’ 4’ x 4’ 4’ x 6’ Sprayer garden tops Turn standard flood and drain tables into an instant sprayer garden with these expandable growing tops. These table toppers are made of rigid, resistant ABS plastic (white exterior/black interior). Easy to install. 18 culture holes per unit. Designed to support 3.5” mesh pots. A single sprayer top fits a standard 2’ X 4’ tray. Use 2 tops with a centre support for a 4’ X 4’ tray and 4 tops with 3 centre supports for a 4’ X 8’ tray. 300 litres 4’ x 8’ Secret Jardin grow chambers Housing and controlling an indoor garden environment is easy with Secret Jardin. The DarkRoom and Pro Range series offer a variety of sizes to suit everyone’s growing needs to create a veritable greenhouse indoors. Secret Jardin DarkRoom Made with a solid frame and treated against rust, the DarkRoom is specially lined with a 95% reflective hammered effect mylar cloth which increases light intensity and therefore improves light distribution. Totally lightproof when closed. Reflective layer increases light intensity. Equipment support tubes can hold up to 30 kg. Easy and quick to assemble, even for large sizes. Washable inside and outside for a clean odor free growing area. Units are compact and lightweight, even for larger sizes. Easy to carry and store. Models available in a variety of sizes ranging from the DR40 (16” X 16” X 48”) to the DR300 (10’ X 10’ X 6.5’). Secret Jardin Pro Range Designed for professionals. Modules are linkable allowing for extra large growing spaces or unique shapes. Lightproof. Stainless steel corners with dual lock mechanism. Aluminum tubes 23 mm diameter and 1.5mm thickness. Highly reflective mylar interior (95% reflectivity). Will support up to 75 kg of equipment in the centre. Durable and washable fabric, 0.6 mm thickness. Strong thick base, holds up to 3000 L of water. Can be assembled in less than an hour. 3 sizes: • 5’ X 10’ X 7’ suitable for up to 2 X HPS 1000 watts • 10’ X 10’ X 7’ suitable for up to 4 X HPS 1000 watts • 20’ X 10’ X 7’ suitable for up to 8 X HPS 1000 watts © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 7 Nursery pots and mesh baskets Pots and baskets come in many sizes for soil or soilless culture Heavy duty pails Strong black plastic pails with handle. Use as grow pail or reservoir. Available: • 23 litre, 12” x 17” tall (31cm x 43cm). • 13 litre, 12” x 9” tall (31cm x 23cm). • Cover to fit both pails sold separately. Saucers Transparent plastic saucers for use under pots. 10cm (4”), 15 cm (6”), 20 cm (8”), 25 cm (10”), 30 cm (12”), 35 cm (14”) Nursery pots and mesh baskets Strong, economical plastic pots and baskets with drainage holes or mesh are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to meet all of your gardening needs: Nursery Pots Diameter / size Height Shape Litres Model 7.5” (19cm) 7” (18cm) round 3.7 Classic 400 14” (35cm) 12” (30cm) round 21.9 Classic 2800 4.0” (10cm) 3.5” (9cm) round 0.9 Green 4.0” (10cm) 3.5” (9cm) square 0.9 Green 5.25” (13cm) 5” (13cm) square 2 Black 6.0” (15cm) 4.5” (11.5cm) round 1.8 Green 8.0” (20cm) 5.5” (14cm) round 3.2 Green 6.5” (16.5cm) 7” (18cm) round 2.9 Elite 300 8.5” (21.5cm) 8.5” (21.5cm) round 6.3 Elite 600 10” (25cm) 9” (23cm) round 8.8 Elite 1000 11” (28 cm) 9.5” (24cm) round 11.35 Elite 1200 12.0” (30cm) 10” (25cm) round 14 Elite 1600 12” (30cm) 10” (25cm) round 14.75 Elite 2000 Diameter / size Height Shape Litres Model 2.0” (5cm) 2” (5cm) round .07 Mesh 3.5” (9cm) 3” (7.5cm) round .38 Mesh Mesh Baskets 5.0” (13cm) 4” (10cm) round .91 Mesh 10.0” (25.5cm) 4” (10cm) round 7.9 Mesh Tips for starting seeds or cuttings 1) Use a shallow grow tray. Fill with growing media of your choice. Moisten. 2) To start seeds: Always follow instructions on seed packages. Generally, cover larger seeds with about 1/2" (1cm) of moist media. 3) To start cuttings: Select healthy growing tips. Use a clean sharp knife or blade to make a diagonal cut across the stem about 3" from the end. Remove large leaves near the base of the cutting. Recommended to dip cutting end into a rooting starter (see page 9). Place in 1/2" or so of moist cutting starter mix. Gently press the mix around the stem. Repeat this procedure for each cutting. Then follow steps 4-8. 4) Cover tray with humidity dome. Remove dome a few minutes each day for air circulation. Most seeds take 3-10 days to germinate. Cuttings take about 7-14 days to start rooting. 5) Keep growing area warm. 70°F (20° C) or more. If too cool, consider using an electric propagation heat mat under the grow tray to warm the area closest to the roots. Keep seeding/cutting mix moist, but not waterlogged. 6) Lighting: Place the tray in light once the first shoots are up for seeds or immediately for cuttings. While a windowsill with indirect sunlight works for some plants, full-spectrum fluorescents are a better choice. 7) Thin out weak-looking or overcrowded seedling shoots or cuttings. 8) Transplanting tips: Before transplanting indoors or outdoors, remove the humidity cover for a few days to help acclimatize new plants. For outdoors, young plants also need to be "hardened off" to acclimatize to temperature extremes and outdoor elements. Increase air movement for about a week (a small air circulating fan can be used). Then move plants outdoors on warmer days, bring them in at night. Transplant when all danger of frost has passed. 8 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Plant propagation Everything to start new plants from seeds or cuttings ® Pro 2001 cutting solution Use this concentrated liquid rooting starter solution containing 0.3% IBA, the tried-and-true growth hormone for optimal early root development. Simply mix 1 part of the concentrate with 2 parts water, dip and plant. May be used on softwood, semi-hardwood and hardwood plants. Suitable for all growing media including soil and soilless mixes such as peat, coco, rockwool and oasis. (Registration Number 2008068A Fertilizers Act.) Available in two economical formats: • 50 ml makes 150 ml of solution good for hundreds of cuttings. • 450 ml makes 1.3 litres of solution good for thousands of cuttings. Clonex rooting gel Clonex rooting gel used by professionals and hobby gardeners the world over since 1989 is now available in Canada. This high performance, water-based, rooting compound was developed by Growth Technology™ Ltd. Clonex® is a tenacious gel that remains in contact around the stem, sealing the cut tissue and supplying the hormones (including 0.31% IBA) needed to promote root cell development and vitamins to protect the delicate new root tissue. It has a full spectrum of mineral nutrients and trace elements to nourish the young roots during their important formative stages. Clonex is available in 100 ml and 250 ml formats. Also available in single-use 15 ml packets. Rootech rooting gel Rootech contains IBA (0.55%), vitamins and nutrients especially formulated to promote rapid, healthy root development during vegetative propagation. Ideal for most hard-to-root plants. May be diluted with water for use on cuttings that will form roots more easily. 56 g, 112 g, 224 g, 756 g Altitude 7” humidity dome What do you do when your seedlings push against their humidity cover but your plants just aren’t quite ready to face the world unprotected? The Altitude humidity dome is the perfect answer, especially for tall cuttings. The clear plastic humidity cover stands 7” tall above your plants and fits all standard grow trays (21” X 11”). The dome’s semi-rigid construction makes it durable enough to hold up well after many uses. A bubble press humidity vent can be cut and opened and closed as needed to vent your growing tray. Measuring cup 30 ml Avoid contamination. Use this handy 30 ml plastic cup to hold propagation liquids and gels when dipping cuttings. Scalpel Easy-to-use, accurate tool for doing plant propagation, cuttings, etc. Sterile, individually wrapped. Disposable. Propagation trays These propagation components are inexpensive, strong, plastic units, all measuring a standard 11" by 21" (28 cm x 53 cm). They all fit standard humidity covers including the 7” domes. Choice of: • Kord black tray with drainage ridges. • Flexible black tray with drainage studs. • Nursery web tray. • 72 compartment insert for propagation with soil or other mixes. Aztek 7” humidity dome This clear plastic dome turns any standard propagation tray into an instant mini greenhouse to protect taller cuttings longer. Recloseable ventilation holes. Durable and reusable. Standard 2” dome To keep sprouting seeds and very young shoots covered try a standard 2” tall clear dome to get young plants closer to your light source. Propagation heat mat Provide just the right amount of heat to give seeds and seedlings the best head start. Simply place the heat mat under your growing tray. Great for cool growing areas such as basements. Complete, ready to plug in. 120 volts. 2 sizes: • 14" x 22" (35 cm x 56 cm) 25 W • 18" x 48" (45 cm x 120 cm) 98 W Thermostat sold separately. Cuttings boxes Moving and transporting cuttings is easy with these simple cardboard boxes sized to fit standard trays with both short and tall humidity covers. Small size ideal for cuttings in trays covered by a 2” dome. Large size is perfect for trays of cuttings covered by 7” tall humidity covers. Heat mat thermostat Control heat mat temperature with this thermostat. Use with both sizes of heat mats. Can handle up to 4 large heat mats (maximum 400 watt, with a power bar). For a complete selection of propagation growing media see pages 10 and 11. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 9 Soilless growing media Lots of options for growing seeds and cuttings through to mature plants Many different soilless growing media are available to the hobby hydroponic gardener. Main factors to consider in choosing a growing medium are type of plants (slow or fast growing) and type of hydroponic system (capillary absorption, wick, drip irrigation, ebb and flow etc). Porosity, sterility, pH balance and stability, as well as life expectancy of plants, are also important considerations. Lambert seed/ cutting mix Get seeds off to a great start in this ready-to-use soilless mix with slow release peat humic acids. Use straight from the resealable zip lock bag. Weed and disease free. 11 litres Lambert all purpose potting mix Ready-to-use soilless growing mix with Lambert slow release peat humic acids. Ideal for houseplants, outdoor hanging baskets and container gardens. Can be mixed with soil or compost. 28.3 litres, 85 litres Jiffy peat pellets Extremely porous, small 1-1/2” (3.2 cm) Jiffy pellets are an old favourite for starting seeds. Available: 25 pack or box of 1000 Oasis propagation sheets Water-absorbing 1-1/4” foam cubes designed for optimal root formation. Stable pH. Good balance between air and water retention. 104 cubes per sheet. Available: • Standard prop cubes 52/40 • Superior water retention cubes 50/10 Lambert LM-3 The LM-3 all-purpose mix with peat moss has excellent air, water retention and drainage capacity. Use indoors or out for bedding plants, perennials, herbs, tropical plants, flower boxes, hanging baskets and gardens. Compressed bale 3.8 cu. ft. (107 L). Clay pellets These attractive, smooth, clay pellets are man-made and fired in high temperature kilns. Universal choice for growing houseplants in hydroculture. Also used in hydroponics including trickle irrigation, flood & drain etc. As well, they are an attractive landscape medium. Porous, pH neutral, sterile, clean. Can be reused. 10 L, 50 L Rockwool Rockwool is made from molten rock spun into fibres as it cools. Long used by commercial and hobby hydroponic gardeners, it is inert, sterile and porous. Sizes to suit most gardening needs: • 1.4“ x 1.4“ x 1” tall (36 mm x 40 mm x 25 mm), 98 per sheet, 11” x 21” (28 cm x 53 cm). Single sheet or case of 30 sheets (2940 cubes). •1.5” x 1.5” (4 cm x 4 cm) cube. Available singly or 2250 cubes/case. •3” x 3” x 2.5” tall (7 cm x 7 cm x 6 cm) cubes, with large holes, available singly or case of 384 cubes. •4” x 4” x 2.5” tall (10 cm x 10 cm x 6 cm) cubes, large holes, available singly or in cases of 216 cubes. •4” x 4” x 4” (10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm) cubes, large holes. Singly or cases of 144 cubes. •6” x 6” x 6” (15 cm x 15 cm x 15 cm) Extra large cubes, large holes, offer great support and stability. Singly or cases of 48. •6” Slab 6”x 36” x 3” tall (15 cm x 90 cm x 7 cm). Solid rockwool. Available singly or in cases of 12 slabs. •8” Slab 8”x 36” x 3” tall (20 cm x 90 cm x 7 cm). Solid rockwool. Available singly or in cases of 12 slabs. •Bulk loose 20 kg bags. SOS cube covers Square soft plastic top covers for rockwool cubes. Blocks light that causes algae formation on tops. 40 per pack, 4” or 6” Vermiculite Vermiculite is used for plant propagation and in small hydroponic systems using capillary absorption and wick irrigation. Extremely porous and pH neutral, but must be replaced after 6 to 9 months of use. 17 litres, 4 cu. ft Perlite Pebble-sized white particles from volcanic rock. Add to soil or soilless mixes to retain moisture, lighten grow media and provide aeration. Excellent to mix with Vermiculite. 4 cu. ft. 10 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Coco substrates Coco Coir: the versatile, environmentally friendly way to grow Mo’Koko 50L Mo'Koko is a rich premium coco substrate of the highest caliber. RHP certified. All procedures from the collection of raw materials to production and packaging are subject to stringent quality control to assure gardeners this product is the cream of the crop. Homogenous, structurally sound, easy to use, recyclable, high temperature treated, maximum air to water ratio, weed and disease free, pre-washed and buffered. Use Mo'Koko as a medium for container gardening, nursery pots and planters. Ideal for automated soilless gardening systems. Feed with specialty coco, hydroponic or organic nutrients that include both macro (NPK) and micro (trace elements). Also functions as an excellent conditioner/amendment when mixed with soil, sand, peat or other growing media. Suitable for use indoors or outdoors. Mo’koko premium coco substrate is available in convenient ready-to-use 50 litre bags. Mo'Koko blocks 4.5 kg Mo'Koko blocks are compressed coco made of the same rich premium coco substrate as the Mo'Koko loose ready-to-use product. RHP certified. Simply add water to break up and expand the 4.5 kg blocks to produce up to 54 litres of substrate that is ideal for container gardens or to mix with soil, sand, peat or other growing media. Suitable for use indoors or outdoors. CocoTek grow mats CocoTek Grow Mats are 100% organic and environmentally friendly. They are made to line your growing trays, allowing the roots to grow through them and form a large root mass. It will also prevent your plants from falling over when using rockwool cubes or mesh pots. CocoTek Grow Mats come in a 4’ x 4’ roll which is 1’’ thick or in a 4’ x 8’ roll which is 1/4” thick. Mo’Koko 2-part nutrient for coco This nutrient formula is derived from Optimum’s many years of experience developing specialty fertilizers. It is perfectly balanced for growing in coir or coco fiber, a natural material derived from the outer husks of coconuts. Mo’Koko supplies all the required nutrients in the proper ratios to plants growing in a variety of coir or coco fiber such as Mo’koko. (See page 19 for more information about plant nutrients.) ® Coco coir, an environmentally friendly, biodegradable, renewable resource, is growing in popularity as a growing medium. Coco coir is a by-product of the coconut tree. The coconut husk is processed to produce fibrous material that can be used for all kinds of products including textiles and rope as well as for gardening products. Ideal growing medium Coco coir makes an ideal growing medium for hydroponics. It can also be mixed with other soilless mediums or used as compost in a garden. While coco coir has been used in India and China for centuries in agriculture, it has only become widely used in the Western world over the last few decades. Today, more and more commercial greenhouses are using coco coir, and many coco gardening products are available to landscapers and hobby gardeners. Coco coir is proven to have excellent physical and chemical properties which promote better plant growth. It has a high water-retention capacity that is released over a period of time. Coco has an ideal pH range of 6-6.7. It offers excellent drainage and aeration for better plant growth. Coco coir has natural anti-fungal properties. It inhibits pathogens like Pythium. The top layer in grow bags/pots tends to remain dry, leaving behind no chances of fungal growth. Very easy to re-hydrate and use for more than one crop rotation. In fact, it can be used for three to four years before needing replacement. Coco is now available in bags of ready-to-use growing mixes or compressed, dry coco blocks that are ready to break up and hydrate. Our products are pre-rinsed and pre-treated to remove any excess salts naturally present in coco coir. For untreated products, after breaking up the coco into chunks and soaking, add additional good quality water and let stand for a few hours. This will flush out any excess sodium in the solution. Then drain the coco. This coco is now ready to use. To feed plants growing in coco, use a balanced nutrient that includes both macro and micro-elements. While hydroponic formulas will generally work, many nutrient manufacturers are now creating nutrient products designed especially to work with the specific salt retention properties of coco. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 11 Garden tools From sprayers to scissors, the right tool for the job Standard sprayer Water alarm Quality 700 ml sprayer with large trigger. Universal sprayer Turn any standard plastic pop bottle into an efficient and economical sprayer with this handy sprayer attachment. Solo sprayer This sprayer is powered by a piston pump with Viton® seals for easy pressurization. Allows for safer use with many types of chemicals. Multidirectional nozzle. Locking trigger reduces user fatigue. Extendable metal wand with 23” reach. Easily filled and cleaned. Builtin drift/drip guard for added control. Compressed-air sprayer Easy-to-use compressed-air sprayer makes the job a lot easier. 1.5 litre tank, wide filling aperture, easy pump handle. Simply place on the floor. A warning siren will alert you when this batteryoperated (9V) water alarm detects moisture. Watering wand This telescoping watering device is a curved aluminum wand that telescopes from 30” to 48” for hard-to-reach areas. It produces a gentle shower spray pattern. The lever action flow control allows for convenient one-handed operation and the metal filter screen prevents clogging. The sprinkler head and hand grip are constructed from durable, rust proof polymer. Giros moisture meter Battery operated digital moisture meter features large size LCD display. Test range 5% to 40%. Resolution 1%, Accuracy =/- 1%. Data hold function. Optimum Hydroponix® Neem Oil We have a wide collection of scissors and pruners for all your gardening needs. • Giros Micro-tips • Giros Bonsai Scalpel Spray Safe Handy accurate tool for doing plant propagation, cuttings, etc. Sterile, individually wrapped. Disposable. Illuminated microscope Illuminated pocket microscope enlarges 30 times. Great for identifying insects/pests. Good quality. Requires 2 AA batteries (not included). 14 cm (5 1/2”) long. 20-litre spout Easy-to-attach spout makes transferring liquids from 20-litre containers a breeze. Eliminates the need to lift or tip large containers. 1-800-489-2215 An anti-bacterial waterless hand cleaner with pumice scrubbers and fresh blueberry scent. Its exclusive biodegradable formula is specially created to dissolve natural resins from trees, plants and any sort of exotic cultivation. Rub on wipe off. Get all the benefits of neem oil as you clean plant leaves. Simply dilute in water, add a surfactant such as Optimum Hydroponix® Wetting Agent and apply as a foliar spray. Concentrated: 250 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres, 20 litres Scissors 12 Horticole hand cleaner www.hydroponiX.com Premium quality non-toxic leaf wash made from a special blend of plant extracts. A clean leaf is a healthy leaf. Concentrate, must be diluted. 100 ml Optimum Hydroponix® wetting agent Formulated to maximize the efficient application of any foliar spray allowing the plant to better absorb nutrients and for better coverage of leaf cleaners, pesticides etc. Minimizes spray runoff. 50 ml, 250 ml © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Garden tools A myriad of handy tools and gadgets Mylar Make grow lights more efficient by lining your growing area with reflective material. Mirror-like plastic Mylar is the best reflective material made, with over 97% reflectivity and no hot spots. Heavyduty 2 mil double-sided. Simply staple or tape it to the walls around your garden. 54” wide (1.4 m). Available in rolls of: • 25’ (8 m) • 50’ (15 m) • 100’ (30 m) Measuring small quantities • Dropper bottle: Ideal for measuring small amounts of growth supplements or other liquids in drops per litre or gallon. 50 ml capacity. • Syringes: Choice of 60 cc or 140 cc syringes make it easy to accurately measure liquid. Measuring cups Handy plastic measuring cups are available in the following sizes: 30 ml mini cup for decanting small amounts of liquid or gels or 250 ml and 500 ml cups with handles. Black & white plastic liner Multi-purpose strong, reflective polyethylene sheeting, black on one side, white on the other. Can be used to line walls, protect floors, divide rooms. 5.5 mil thick. Available by the linear foot or rolls 10’ x 100’. Tarp Zip-Up Peel and stick adhesive zipper system creates easy access into tarp or poly enclosures. Easy to install. Opens from either side. Great for helping create an instant doorway for an enclosed growing space or greenhouse. Dad tape Long lasting repair tape ideal for use in extreme heat or cold settings. Sticks to aluminum, glass, plastic, vinyl, rubber, wood, tarps and more. Shock cords Pro-Blend proportioner Decant products from larger containers with no dripping, spilling, or waste! Simply attach Proportioner to product for decanting, squeeze bottle and release. Measurements in oz. and ml marked. Kilotech electronic scale Accurately weighs in ounces or grams from 1 gram to 6 kg (lb or kg). Easy to read digital readout screen. On-off and tare reset buttons. Plastic bowl included. Operates with batteries or adapter included. Digital pocket scales • Giros Mini 50: 50 g capacity. Tare function. Handy shock cords for use around the grow room to help suspend carbon filters and other equipment. UV treated, made of natural rubber, coated with polyester braiding with strong plastic hooks at both ends. Available 48”, 72” • Giros PG 300: 300 g capacity. Tare function. Plastic flip top protector. Giros PG 300 Zip-Zag storage bags These handy, clear plastic storage bags seal in flavour and odour with an extra strong, double-track zipper lock closing. Ideal for lots of projects around the home and garden. Boxes of 10 or 50 bags. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com Pro-Cut trimmer Pro-Cut leaf trimmers are effective, economical and very quiet. Designed to trim leafy plants and separate excess leaves and cut twigs from a variety of plants and flowers including oregano, rosemary, mint, lavender, coriander and much more. Perfect for the preparation of essential oils, aromatherapy and mixed flowers for potpourri. Herb drying rack Lightweight, portable drying rack offers 6 levels of drying capacity. Each level will hold 1kg or 2.2lbs. Fabric is strong yet allows the best airflow possible. Easy to turn the unit to access from all sides. Measures 23.5” diameter (60 cm). Ideal for end of season drying. Storage/ carrying case included. Hydrofarm light meter Economical and easy to use. Reads up to 50,000 footcandles/lux. No batteries required. Includes carry case. Auto shut-off. 1-year guarantee. Uvex safety glasses Top quality professional safety glasses protect from U/V rays. Ideal for working under HID lighting. • Replacement lenses available. 1-800-489-2215 13 pH and conductivity Tools for measuring and managing nutrient solutions Measuring and controlling pH levels and conductivity of nutrient solutions is important for all serious gardeners indoors or outdoors. It is particularly important in hydroponic or soilless systems because plants depend entirely on a nutrient solution for their growth and health. Various instruments and solutions for hydroponics are found here and on page 15. Some instruments can do more than one job. For example, combo meters can simultaneously check both pH and nutrient strength. Oakton pH Testr 10 and 30 Oakton pH EcoTestrs pH Testr 10 offers quick, reliable pH readings. Heavy duty, double junction electrode. Large display. Waterproof. Hold function. pH Testr 30 offers all of this, plus temperature readings. pH pens Eco Testrs pH1 and pH2 are economical pocket sized meters. Waterproof, dustproof housings float. Easy-to-use; push-button calibration with auto buffer recognition. Hold function. No replacement electrodes. pH range Resolution Accuracy Temperature 1.0 to 15.0 pH 0.1 pH ±0.1 pH ATC 3 point yes 4 x 1.5V Batteries 4 x 1.5V Oakton pH Testr30 1.00 to 15.00 pH 0.01 pH ±0.01 pH ATC (w/ display) 3 point yes 0.0 to 14.0 pH 0.1 0.1 no 1 point yes 4 x 1.5 Oakton EcoTestr pH2 0.0 to 14.0 pH 0.1 ±0.1 pH ATC 3 point yes 4 x 1.5 Nutradip pH pen 0.0 to 14.0 pH 0.1 pH ±0.1 pH ATC 3 point no 4 x 1.4 Nutradip pH meter 0.0 to 14.0 pH 0.1 pH ±0.1 pH ATC 2 point no 9 volts Oakton TDS Testr 11 Waterproof TDS tester. Accuracy range ±1%. Automatic temperature compensation. Auto shutoff, low-battery indicator. Multirange capabilities. Cond. pens Calibration Waterproof Oakton EcoTestr pH1 Gives accurate TDS readings with a splashproof keypad with waterproof housing. Nutradip TDS pen tester and TDS meter The Nutradip TDS pen tester provides quick, on the spot TDS testing. The Nutradip TDS meter continuously monitors TDS readings of your nutrient solution. Truncheon TDS/EC tester Easy-to-read LED lights tell you parts per million of total dissolved solids. (EC or ppm) Watertight, turns on and off automatically. Automatic temperature compensation. Factory calibrated. TDS range Display Resolution Accuracy Oakton TDS Testr11 2000 ppm PPM 10 ppm 1 ppm ATC yes 4 x 1.5v Oakton TDS EcoTestr 1990 ppm PPM 10 ppm ± 1% ATC yes 4 x 1.5v Nutradip TDS Pen 1999 ppm PPM 1 ppm ± 3% no no 4 x 1.4v Nutradip Nutrient Meter 0-9999ppm PPM 1 ppm ± 2% yes no 9 volt Bluelab Truncheon 1800 ppm EC, CF, PPM 50 ppm ± 4% ATC yes 3 x AA Oakton Dual Parameter Testr Measure TDS and pH with one instrument. Displays measured value along with temperature – simply press a key to toggle between pH and conductivity. Waterproof, dustproof housings float. Push-button calibration, hold function, and error messages. Combo meters Nutradip pH pen tester offers affordable, pocket-sized measurement. For continuous monitoring of pH levels use the Nutradip pH meter. Oakton pH Testr10 Oakton TDS EcoTestrs 14 Nutradip pH pen tester and pH meter Nutradip Tri-meter Continuous monitoring system meter allows you to monitor pH levels, TDS and temperature all at the same time. Portable, requires no batteries, just plug into an AC wall receptacle. Temp. comp Waterproof Batteries Bluelab Combo and Bluelab Guardian The Combo is a portable meter that reads pH, conductivity and temperature all in one. Choice of °C or °F, ppm, EC or CF. Battery operated. Push button pH calibration. The Guardian does all of this too, but as a continuous monitor with a plug in power supply. Bluelab Combo meter Range Resolution Accuracy Power source pH 0.0 to 14 pH 0.1 pH ± 0.1 pH 3 X AAA Nutrient 0 - 9.9 EC, 0-1990 PPM 0.1 EC, 10 PPM ± 0.1 EC, ± 50 PPM Bluelab Guardian meter Range Resolution Accuracy Power source pH 0.0 to 14 pH 0.1 pH ± 0.1 pH Power cord Nutrient 0 - 5.0 EC, 0-3500 PPM 0.1 EC, 70 PPM ± 0.1 EC, ± 70 PPM Nutradip Tri-meter Range Resolution Accuracy Power source Power cord pH 0.0 to 14 pH 0.1 pH ± 0.1 pH Nutrient 0-9990 PPM 1 PPM ± 2% Oakton Dual Testr Range Resolution Accuracy Power source pH 0.0 to 14.0 0.1 pH ±0.1 4 x 1.5v Nutrient 0 to 10,000 ppm 1 ppm ±1% 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Irrigation and water treatment Water quality plays a significant role in plant health Many different factors can have an impact on water quality. Tap water from a city reservoir may be treated with chemicals such as chlorine. Well water may have naturally occuring minerals that create hard water. Surface water from a lake or river may have various particles or pollutants present. All of these situations can create problems that may impede optimal plant growth or be downright harmful. If you suspect that your water source could present problems for your garden, it is advisable to have a sample analyzed. Once a problem is clearly diagnosed then a proper corrective course of action can be taken. Litmus pH papers Simply dip into the nutrient solution; the colour change tells you the pH reading. Accurately measures pH 4 - 7. 100 strips. Horticultural lime Optimum pH+ Up Lime to raise the pH of soil. Two types: • Calcitic Lime adds calcium. 22.7 kg • Dolomitic Lime adds calcium and magnesium. 22.7 kg Wide range pH test kit Use this wide range pH test kit to determine the pH level of source water for your garden or to test the pH level of a nutrient solution. Comes complete with test tube, solution and a detailed instruction book including chart for analyzing test results. Measures pH ranging from 4.5 to 9.0. Super concentrated Potassium Hydroxide (17%) mixture to raise pH. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Reverse osmosis systems by Hydrologic: Reverse osmosis is a type of pressurized filtration system in which water is forced through a semipermeable membrane that allows the passage of water but restricts the flow of many contaminants. Optimum pH- Down Merlin Garden Pro™ Super concentrated to lower pH. Only takes a few drops. Two formulas available: • Nitric acid 15% • Phosphoric acid 17% 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Optimum pH Pen Care Kit Everything you need to take care of your pH pen. Includes pH 4.0 and pH 7.0 calibration solutions, cleaning solution, storage solution. 100 ml of each. Optimum Pro pH/TDS Kit Convenient 4-pack with pH 7 buffer solution, storage solution and cleaning solution, also 1382 calibration solution. 100 ml of each pH Buffers Calibration of pH pens requires that you use a test solution with a known pH level. • pH 7.0 100 ml, 500 ml • pH 4.0 100 ml, 500 ml Storage Solution pH pen electrodes must be kept moist at all times to perform properly. When not in use for extended periods, store electrodes in this storage solution. 500 ml Cleaning Solution To maintain accuracy, clean pH pen electrodes on a regular basis. 500 ml TDS Calibration Solution Starting with a clean base of pure water is important to your garden. This highflow reverse osmosis system removes 95% of chlorine, hardness (calcium and magnesium), excessive minerals (iron) and other contaminants. Produces up to 114 litres (30 gal) per hour or 2,839 litres (750 gal) per day (based on 25° C, 50 psi, 750 ppm feed water). Wastes 40% less water than other RO systems. Everything is included in the box to start producing bottle quality water for your plants. Exclusive configuration for hydroponics and gardening. Easy to set up. Comes with complete instructions. Maximize nutrient uptake and minimize nutrient lock-out with these easy to use reverse osmosis systems. Removes 98%+ of chlorine and other contaminants. Wastes approximately 25% less water than other RO systems. Everything in the box ready for quick hook-up. Customized for gardening and hydroponics. Stealth RO 100: 3-stage system uses 1 RO membrane, 1 carbon filter and 1 washable sediment filter. Produces up to 378 litres (100 gallons) per day of ultra pure, low ppm water. Stealth RO 200: 4-stage system uses 2 RO membranes, 1 carbon filter and 1 washable sediment filter. Produces up to 757 litres (200 gallons) per day of ultra pure, low ppm water. Stealth RO 200 Hydrologic Big Boy To handle big water filtering jobs use the Big Boy ultra high capacity sediment and chlorine filter. Ideal as a whole-house filter or use with optional garden hose connections to create a stand-alone, point-of-use filter. Optional UV sterilizer attachment available for those on non-municipal water sources (wells, surface water) that may have biological contaminants. High capacity flow rate of 26.5 litres per minute (1590 litres per hour). Removes 99% chlorine, 95%+/- sediment. Optimum O2 © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 The Tall Blue® pre-filter unit provides protection for the Merlin-Garden Pro® RO system. Removes up to 99% of chlorine and 90% of sediment, rust, silt, etc. Filters chloramines and particulates down to 5 microns. Recommended when Merlin-Garden Pro® is producing more than 530 litres (140 gal) of RO water per week avg. Essential for protecting Merlin Garden Pro’s® RO membranes by producing ultra clean feed water. Extends the life of the Merlin Garden Pro’s® pre-filter by 3 times, allowing for less frequent changes - about every 17,000 litres (4,500 gal) of RO water or 6-9 months. Stealth RO 100 and 200 series Calibration of conductivity/salt meters requires a test solution with a known salts level. 1382 ppm. 100 ml, 500 ml Use this food grade H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) in a hydroponic garden reservoir. May also be used for cleaning garden systems. 29% concentrate. 1litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Tall Blue pre-filter Big Boy pictured with optional UV sterilizer stage Replacement membranes, filters and accessories available for the filters featured above. www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 15 Pumps and accessories Choose the right pump for the job There are two kinds of pumps used for hydroponic gardening. Submersible pumps are used to move a nutrient solution from the reservoir to irrigate your garden. This applies to all types of active systems: ebb & flow, trickle irrigation, aeroponics and so on. When choosing a submersible pump, consider the size and type of garden system as well as the distance and height the solution must travel. Pumps are rated G.P.H. or “gallons per hour” at a twelve-inch pumping height or “head”. The higher the water must travel, the less the pressure will be. To avoid overworking your pump, choose one with at least 20% more capacity than needed. The second type of pumps are air pumps used to aerate or bubble a nutrient solution to prevent it from becoming stagnant. Your local hydroponic specialist can help you make the right choice. Submersible and in-line pump options: Eco Pump HP Watts AMPS Inlet Magdrive Name Type GPH (LPH) Outlet Oil Eco Pump 185 Submersible 185 (700) 10 0.22 3/8” to 1/2” no 1.8m Eco Pump 396 Submersible 396 (1500) 25 0.3 1/2” to 3/4” no 1.8m Eco Pump 633 Submersible 633 (2400) 35 0.45 1/2” to 3/4” no 1.8m Little Giant 5MSP Submersible 1100 (4200) 1/6 125 5 1” threaded yes 3m Mondi Pump Submersible 1585 (6000) 1/2 750 5 1/2” to 1” no 6.6m Cord length Magdrive 500 Submersible 500 (1900) 45 0.8 1” 3/4” no 3m Magdrive 700 Submersible 700 (2650) 65 1.5 1” 3/4” no 3m Air pump options: • Elite 800 air pump Rated 1500 cc/min; 2.8 psi. 2.5-watt • Elite 802 air pump Double outlet 2500 cc/ min; 4 psi. 4-watt • Optima air pump Variable speed from 500 to 5500 cc/min; 6 psi. 4.5watt • Maxima air pump Strong double outlet 3500 cc/min; 6 psi. 6-watt Air stone Air stones helps aerate a nutrient solution. Use with any air pump: 30 cm (12"), 15 cm (6”), 10 cm (4") Ebb & Flow adapter Top quality, strong plastic fittings to disperse water onto growing trays in ebb & flow systems. Designed for the perfect fit. No leaks. 3/4”and 1”. 16 Mondi Pump Little Giant 5MSP 1-800-489-2215 Drip line complete Keep life simple with this 30” (76 cm) spaghetti drip line feeder with premounted stabilizer dripper and plug to punch into your main line. Hose We carry a large selection of hose by the roll or cut to your specifications and sold by the foot. Call or check in store. Fittings We carry a large assortment of hose fittings: lines, tees, elbows, connectors, end caps, hose clamps, thru-hull connectors, drain valves, entry valves, reducers etc. As well, we have a good selection of drippers, emitters, goof plugs, misters, barb fittings etc – everything you need to set up your own system. Call or shop in person. Pump Protector Our tried-andtrue pump filter bag sports a new look – all black – ideal for use in pond basins. Now available in two sizes: small (31 cm X 25 cm) to accommodate standard compact submersible pumps; and large (43 cm X 33 cm) to handle bigger pumps. Triple-layered mesh and fibre construction filters out dirt and debris to prevent clogged pumps and burned-out motors. Eliminates clogged drippers. Ideal for ponds, fountains and hydroponic garden reservoirs. Works great on lake water intakes too. Insert pump into bag, close with drawstring cord and toggle lock. Float valve This device operates like a toilet tank valve and connects to a water line intake to automatically fill your reservoir. Submersible heaters Economical thermal submersible heaters keep your nutrient solution warm. Pilot light, temperature set dial. www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Plant nutrition Understanding the basics is key to making the right choices micro elements. These trace elements are not usually present in regular plant food for soil-grown plants because only small amounts are required and these are usually present in sufficient quantities in soil. Note that while standard fertilizers are not recommended for soilless gardening, a hydroponic formula is good for plants growing in almost any medium including soil. New trends Overview Like all living things, plants require food in order to survive and thrive. Regardless of what growing medium is used, all plants need the same kind of nourishment -- a combination of macro and micro elements. The macros consist of three major elements: Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium. The three numbers found on most plant food packaging (18-9-27 for example) represent the percent of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K), in the formula. Plants require varying percentages of these elements during different stages of growth. For example, during the vegetative phase, a plant requires a higher percentage of Nitrogen. During flowering, plants need more Phosphorus to help the plant to flower and produce fruit. Potassium is there to help fortify the plant against diseases and toxicity. A variety of micro nutrients are also required by plants in order to grow including calcium, sulfur, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, boron, manganese and molybdenum. They help plants with their various functions and play an important role in overall plant health. Plants growing in soil derive these elements from the soil. They are broken down and made available by microorganisms that occur naturally in soil. Supplementary feeding can be used to improve overall plant health and performance. A plant growing in a soilless or hydroponic garden system must be fed with specially formulated fertilizer that provides all the necessary elements in a ready-to-use format. Whether these elements come from the natural action of decomposition within soil or from a carefully balanced manufactured blend makes no difference to the plant. The availability of the elements is the crucial factor. Almost all plant foods contain the macro nutrients. Hydroponic nutrient formulas also contain a full range of vital © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 In recent years, nutrient manufacturers have created custom formulas to address the special needs of the increasingly popular growing medium know as coir. This biodegradable, environmentally friendly way to grow is manufactured from the husk by-product of coconut cultivation. It has won many converts in the commercial world and is now readily available to hobby gardeners. While coir almost qualifies as an inert growing media, it does react more with nutrient elements than other soilless alternatives such as clay pellets or rockwool. Specialty nutrients for coco fibre take this into consideration. Going organic is another hot trend in the nutrient world these days. While composting for the backyard is an oldtime favourite way to garden outdoors, putting organic materials into a closed indoor, hydroponic system has always been tricky. This was due to the lack of microbe-filled soil to properly metabolize nutrients into a digestible state for plants. However, new organic formulas are coming to market with the organic nutrients already in a water soluble state suitable for hydroponics. Supplements Horticulture professionals have long known that adding “a little something extra” at various stages of growth can help to increase yields, make blooms last longer and generally boost a plant’s performance. Today many new products are available to help the hobby gardener fine-tune plant feeding to achieve professional results. Some supplements are designed for a specific phase of growth such as during flowering. All of these products must generally be used in conjunction with a good overall regular feeding program. This applies whether the supplement is added directly to a nutrient solution for absorption by plant roots or applied as a foliar feed spray. Always check product directions carefully. Remember, more is not always better. www.hydroponiX.com Follow directions We recommend following the plant food manufacturer’s directions carefully. As a rule of thumb, the nutrient solution in a hydroponic garden reservoir should be changed about once a week. Simply empty and clean the reservoir, flush the growing media with clear water and start again with a fresh batch of nutrient. Using a quality, balanced, fertilizer, changed regularly will ensure that plants receive adequate nutrition and minimize the possibility of problems. However, nutrient deficiencies can still sometimes occur in both soil or hydroponic gardens. For example, tomatoes frequently require additional calcium to prevent blossom end rot. Troubleshooting If a problem is apparent, the first step is to check the pH (acidity or alkalinity) of your nutrient solution using simple test kits or pH meters. The pH level must be between 5.8 and 6.5 for plants to absorb minerals vital for growth. Solutions are available to lower or increase pH . Pale green leaves or leaves that turn yellow may indicate a nutrient deficiency. Too much fertilizer can also cause problems with a toxic build up of salts that "burn" plant leaves. In some cases, plants experience nutrient lock up whereby they can no longer metabolize the food they need to thrive. Plain water or rinse-type solutions can help correct over fertilization. Salt TDS pens or conductivity meters can be used to measure concentration of a nutrient solution, giving an experienced gardener an added element of control in feeding a garden right. Note that plant problem symptoms can also be caused by other factors: overwatering, inadequate light, extreme temperature or humidity and poor air circulation. Plants need both a balanced growing environment and adequate nutrition to thrive. 1-800-489-2215 17 Nutrients for soilless gardening Great options for feeding a hydroponic garden Ionic Grow/Bloom 1-part hydroponic nutrient Ionic offers a revolutionary approach to liquid nutrients with a simple single pack solution. One formula for Grow and one for Bloom (use with Ionic Boost, see page 23). Just add water and apply to plants. The Ionic one-part nutrient solution is possible because the nutrient elements are specially bonded together in the exact ratios required by the plant and remain in this highly stable form until they are taken up by plant roots. Ionic provides a complete balanced nutrient complex, to be delivered directly to the root zone, highly accessible to plants. Very precise. Comes pH buffered. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres • A “hard water formula” is also available for water that contains high levels of calcium, iron or other minerals. 4 litres, 10 litres B.C. hydroponic 3-part nutrient B.C. hydroponic nutrients by Technaflora are a power-packed trio for nurturing generous vegetative crops and extraordinary floral growth. B.C. Boost, B.C. Bloom and B.C. Grow are complete, professionally formulated, highly concentrated fertilizing agents. Both B.C. Grow and B.C. Bloom contain a full complement of micronutrients, which are bolstered by the added calcium and iron in B.C. Boost. This remarkable three-part fertilizer is easy to mix and control, with simple to follow mixing instructions. Each formula available in the following formats: 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Pura Vida Organics ™ Grow & Bloom Optimum Hydroponix® 2-part hydroponic nutrient Our best-selling 2-part liquid hydroponic plant nutrient offers peak performance at every stage from seed to harvest! Produces vigorous, healthy plants crop after crop. One 2-part (A&B) formula for the growth stage and one 2-part (A&B) for flowering. Contains all essential macro and micro nutrients. Excellent solubility and pH buffering ensure optimum availability of all nutrient elements. Manufactured using laboratorygrade mineral elements and pure reverse osmosis water ensuring top-quality and consistent results! Ideal for all types of hydroponic systems. Also good in soil. Each A&B formula combo is sold as a pair for one low price, making Optimum Hydroponix® a very cost effective and complete nutrition program. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres 18 1-800-489-2215 Pura Vida Organics™ Grow & Bloom are unique organic fertilizers that provide plants with both a balanced and available nutrient supply in a pure natural form. Suitable for use in hydroponic, soil, and soilless-based gardening media without the fear of irrigation line clogging and without the nasty smells associated with other organic brands. Formulated from various plant materials and subjected to a fermentation process, Pura Vida Organics™ Grow & Bloom contain sufficient macro elements along with essential micro nutrients to sustain rapid, aggressive growth during the vegetative stage and to produce abundant fragrant flowers and mature fruits during the flowering/fruiting stages. Ideal as a 1-part fertilizer for general use. When combined, Pura Vida Organics™ Grow & Bloom create an aggressive 2-part formulation suitable for high-demand crop production systems. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Nutrients for soilless gardening Specialty formulas for soilless or traditional gardening General Hydroponics Flora - 3-part Flora 3-part liquid nutrients are one of the best known and most advanced commercial hydroponic nutrients worldwide. Combine FloraGro, FloraBloom and FloraMicro in different ways to mix a huge range of professional nutrient solutions to meet the needs of any plant at any stage of growth. Excellent in all growing media. For experienced hydroponic gardeners. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres. FloraMicro is also available in a hardwater formula. General Hydroponics Floranova™ 1-part FloraNova represents a breakthrough in fertilizer technology, as it gives users both the strength of a dry concentrate and the ease of a liquid. This unique formulation of highly purified minerals and natural additives combines the benefits of hydroponic as well as organic gardening methods. Floranova Grow and Bloom: 1 litre, 4 litres, 9.46 litres Eco granular nutrients Eco nutrients are America’s best selling powdered nutrients for hydroponics or soil, indoors or outdoors. All elements are derived from natural minerals, with no artificial stimulants or growth hormones. • Eco Grow M 20-6-12 • Eco Bloom 3-35-10 Available in 450g (1lb), 2.2kg (5lb), 4.5kg (10lb), 11kg (25lb) Pure Blend Pro Pure Blend Pro ® is a stand-alone one-part “hydro-organic” nutrient with one blend for vegetative growth and one blend for fruit and flower development. The result is vigorous lush green vegetation and superior fruit, flowers, and vegetables. Each formula is a custom blend of organic and natural sources of the essential major, secondary, and trace elements in 100% soluble form. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Mo’Koko 2-part nutrient for coco This nutrient formula is derived from Optimum’s many years of experience developing specialty fertilizers. It is perfectly balanced for growing in coir or coco fiber, a natural material derived from the outer husks of coconuts. Mo’Koko supplies all the required nutrients in the proper ratios for plants culitivated in growing media such as Mo’Koko ready-to-use growing mix (see page 11). Mo’Koko nutrient is available in a 2-part Grow and a 2-part Bloom formula. The 2-part Grow formula is designed for use from the earliest stages of plant growth until the flowering stage begins. (For non flowering plants, use throughout the plant's life cycle.) For flower and fruit bearing plants, switch to the 2-part Bloom formula as the flowering phase begins and use to maturity or harvest. Manufactured using laboratory grade mineral elements, pure reverse osmosis water and pH buffers to ensure optimum availability of all nutrients. 1 litre, 4 litres,10 litres and 20 litres. www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 19 Complementary fertilizers A complete range of options from Optimum Hydroponix® Sonic Boost ® Sonic Boost Flowering Fertilizer is a watersoluble powder that delivers high levels of phosphorous and potassium to plants during flower and fruit development. Add Sonic Boost to hydroponic garden nutrient solutions at the first sign of flowering and then add at every change of nutrient solution. Ideal to use with Optimum Hydroponix® 2-part nutrient and all other basic fertilizer programs. 100 g, 400 g, 1 kg Rootopia Rootopia nutrient blend is formulated to stimulate root structures in rooted cuttings and young plants and provide relief from stress and transplant shock throughout the entire growth cycle. Rootopia combines just the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium with naturally occurring growth hormones and amino acids to promote abundant, well-established root structures. Strong roots improve a plant’s inner and outer strength forming the foundation for excellent overall plant health. Use to propagate cuttings or as a transplanting drench for bare roots and newly potted plants. 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Supermax B1 Supermax B1 is a natural growth stimulant derived from high quality seaweed. A source of up to 60 trace elements and a variety of vitamins and minerals make it an excellent method to supplement nutrient feeds. Supermax B1 acts as an all-purpose tonic providing benefit to plants through all stages of growth. Use as a foliar spray on cuttings to promote early root development, on rooted cuttings to relieve transplant stress, and throughout the vegetative cycle to promote lush, vigorous foliage. May be added to hydroponic nutrient solutions or to water for plants in PK 10/20 soil. Ideal for use both indoors and out. PK 10-20 is a potent flower stimulator 100 ml, 500 ml, 1litre, 4 litres, 20 litres engineered to drive and arouse floral development in plants during their natural bloom stage. The result -- bigger fruits and Humex Fossil Force flowers. PK 10-20 provides the essential Enhance a balanced feeding program by flowering compounds, phosphorous and adding this specialty nutrient component to potassium to enhance and maximize floral a hydroponic garden nutrient solution or blooms in rapid growing plants during the when watering soil-grown plants. Humex late blossoming phase. Add to your feeding Fossil Force, a liquid concentrate derived schedule 3 weeks before harvest for one from soluble humates, contains a myriad week. Formulated for use with all A&B nutrient of natural compounds known to facilitate solutions and growing media. nutrient uptake and restore the natural 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres balance in soil necessary to optimize plant growth. Concentrated. Must dilute. Rinse 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres When diluted, removes excess fertilizer salts Fulvex Fossil Force Use this hydroponic specialty nutrient component to balance and enhance a regular feeding program for flowering plants or crops. Fulvex Fossil Force is a liquid concentrate derived from decomposing organic material known as humus. Concentrated. Must be diluted. May be applied as a foliar feed during the bloom phase. May be added to hydroponic nutrient solutions or when watering soil grown plants throughout the complete growth cycle. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres 20 1-800-489-2215 from your plants and decreases leaching periods during the final stages of plant growth. Effective when used to correct overfeeding or nutrient toxicity. May be used in stronger doses to clean aeroponic systems or hydroponics drippers by removing salt buid-up from lines and sprayers. (Not a plant food.) 500ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Mermix Dry www.hydroponiX.com The power of seaweed as a natural fertilizer is unleashed in Mermix powder. Source of up to 60 trace elements with high potassium concentration (13%). Use indoors or outdoors. Non toxic. 100% soluble. Mix what you need as you go for a fresh solution every time. Extremely concentrated. 150 g © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Complementary fertilizers Products of Holland made for Optimum Hydroponix® MYSTIK Root • MYSTIK Grow • MYSTIK Bloom Mystik is a collection of three intoxicating cocktails blended to stimulate and amplify natural functions in plants through superior assimilation of nutrients at all stages of plant life. Each contains a rich blend of all natural ingredients with highly concentrated seaweed, botanical extracts, more than 30 trace elements and amino acids which drive natural plant functions to the extreme through superior assimilation of nutrients. Use in conjunction with a regular feeding program. • Use MYSTIK ROOT once cuttings are transplanted until strong root systems are established. • Add MYSTIK GROW throughout the vegetative stage up to the first week of flowering. • Continue with MYSTIK BLOOM from the first week of flowering until harvest. Do not use with H202. 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Titan A 100% natural powerpack loaded with botanical hormones, extracts and minerals to incite and drive the maturation process of blossoming plants. Use during the final 3 weeks of flowering prior to harvest with your favourite fertilizers or plant nutrition program. Suitable for use in hydroponic systems, traditional soil and with soilless or coco substrates. Do not use with H202 or other PK boosters. 500 ml, 1 litres, 4 litres © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com ZenZyme A 100% natural enzyme tonic that kindles the proliferation of microorganisms in grow media accelerating the breakdown and recycling of undesirable residue and waste. Vitalizes grow media and builds up plant immunities. Zenzyme is not a plant food. Do not use with H202. 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres See pages 18, 19 and 20 for more information regarding Optimum Hydroponix® nutrients. 1-800-489-2215 21 Complementary fertilizers More options to make the most out of a fertilizer program Jurassic Canna PK13/14 A high quality phosphoruspotassium compound which is added during the blooming phase, resulting in higher yields. 250 ml, 1 litre, 5 litres Canna Rhizotonic A strong vegetable root stimulator for plants that have already taken root. For use with all growing media. 250 ml, 1 litre, 5 litres Canna Cannazym Cannazym is a high-quality enzyme product which breaks down cellulose. It speeds up the process of breaking down dead root material in growing media, allows more air into the substrate, activates the development of micro-organisms, provides for improved absorption of nutrients and increases resistance against diseases. (Not a plant food.) 250 ml, 1 litre, 5 litres Canna Boost Accelerator Designed to stimulate early flower development for bigger, juicier fruits and flowers, Canna Boost Accelerator increases levels of nutrient uptake and sugar production. 1 litre, 5 litres Check with your local retailer for information and availability of other Canna nutrients and supplements. Bud Fuel™ Bud Fuel™ is designed to trigger the “switch” from vegetative growth to the flowering stage. Bud Fuel can help create multiple flower sites with more lateral branching by providing just the right balance of energy and nutrients. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 lites Heavy Bud™ Heavy Bud™ is an organic based formula designed to increase the size and weight of fruits and flowers. It contains nutrient supplements derived from natural plant extracts. It also contains phosphorus and potassium derived from organic and inorganic sources. 1 litre, 4 litres 22 1-800-489-2215 Jurassic products are specialty nutrient fertilizers composed of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. 100% water soluble for hydroponic nutrient solutions. Each Jurassic formula is designed for a specific growth phase in conjunction with a regular feeding program. • Jurassic Veg-Booster 12-60-0 : 250 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 2 kg • Jurassic Grow 13.5-0-45 : 250 g, 500 g,1 kg, 2 kg • Jurassic Bloom 0-51-33 : 250 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 2.5 kg • Jurassic Cal-Mag 0-51-33 : 250 g, 500 kg, 1 kg, 2 kg • Jurassic Carbo-Boost 0-51-33 : 300 g, 700 g, 1.5 kg, 5 kg Blossom Blood Selective pH control water treatment for hydroponics. Add these red crystals to hydroponic nutrient solution when flower buds appear well established. Repeat application once more in 2 weeks. 20 g, 300 g Big Bud powder and liquid Use this hydroponic flowering powdered fertilizer during weeks 2, 3 and 4 of a plant's bloom cycle. Use in conjunction with your hydroponic fertilizer. 130 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 2.5 kg. Also available in liquid format 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres Overdrive Hydroponic flowering fertilizer liquid used in conjunction with your regular feeding program during the last few weeks of a bloom cycle. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Growth Plus Mix this liquid concentrate with water to create a foliar feed spray. Apply weekly during vegetative growth phase in conjunction with a regular feeding program. Made from extracts of marine algae. 250 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Monster Bloom High phosphorous and potassium flowering powdered fertilizer used throughout the flowering cycle in conjunction with a regular feeding program. 130 g, 500 g, 2.5 kg Brix+ Brix+ by Green Planet is a unique formula designed to achieve maximum flowering. Scientifically designed using only the best ingredients, Brix Plus is readily available for direct absorption into your favorite flowering plant. This 100% organic product contains naturally derived active ingredients. RTU 1 litre, 4 litres 10 litres, 24 litres Dutch Master Saturator Dutch Master Saturator has been specifically engineered, on a molecular level, to perform as a specialized, foliar fertilizer delivery system that can be used with non insecticidal, herbicidal & fungicidal fertilizer applications. 1 litre Carbo Load This carbohydrate based nutrient supplement will enhance flower fragrance and fruit sweetness. Helps to remove impurities. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres Spray-N-Grow Micronutrient blend contains17 micronutrients not available in standard fertilizers. Formulated so they are more powerful together than separate. 225 ml, 900 ml, 4 litres www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Complementary fertilizers Ideas to enhance a regular feeding program Awesome Blossom For all flowering plants. Good in soil or hydroponics. Use this liquid concentrate in conjunction with a regular feeding program from the start of the bloom stage through harvest. 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres Thrive Alive Kelp-based plant tonic for use in soil or hydroponic solutions or as a foliar spray. Use as a complementary fertilizer to a regular feeding program. Red forumla for chemical production. Green formula is organically certified (OMRI). 250 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Sugar Daddy Supplies essential components in a rapidly available form to enhance the fragrance and essential oil production of flowers and fruits during all stages of plant growth. Suitable for use in soil, soilless and hydroponic growing media. Use with any premium quality soluble fertilizer. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres MagiCal MagiCal is a highly enriched blend of Magnesium, Calcium and Iron, that promotes vigorous and healthy plant growth for both soil and soilless gardens. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Root 66 ROOT 66 is an organic based nutrient blend comprised of seaweed extract, trace elements and disaccharides. ROOT 66 promotes the development of a well balanced root structure. At transplanting, ROOT 66 improves the establishment of seedlings and cuttings by stimulating adventitious root development. ROOT 66 can be applied to soil, soilless and hydroponic based gardening media and can be used in conjunction with any premium quality fertilizer. 250 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Ionic Boost Designed to promote flowering when used in conjuction with Ionic Bloom nutrient or other full spectrum flowering nutrient formulas. Add to hydroponic nutrient solutions about 2 weeks into flowering phase and continue through harvest. 1 litre, 4 litres Grozyme Helps to promote a clean, healthy growing environment for optimal root protection. Developed using a proprietary biofermentation process. OMRI listed. Can be used with H202. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres, 20 litres Green Fuse The Green Fuse series of specialty nutrient components are carefully blended into three formulas, each designed for a different stage of growth. Highly concentrated, economical. 355 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Do not use with H202. • Green Fuse Grow: Use throughout vegetative growth phase. Add to nutrient solution or apply as foliar spray. • Green Fuse Bloom: Use throughout flowering and fruiting phase. Add to nutrient solution or apply as foliar spray. • Green Fuse Root: Add to watering solution throughout the propagation process. Superthrive Superthrive increases yields and helps plants grow faster by stimulating the production of natural hormones. Works great with both hydroponics and soil gardening. 120 ml, 480 ml, 1 litres, 4 litres www.hydroponiX.com SM 90 The organic composition of SM-90 results in its ability to be biodegradable. Non-toxic to humans, animals and plants. It can be applied as a foliar spray or directly in reservoirs with nutrient solutions. 1 litre, 4 litres, 10 litres Piranha Beneficial fungi preparation helps roots gain surface mass to maximize absorption of water, nutrients and oxygen. 130 g, 250 g, 500 g Liquid Karma Liquid Karma contains a full complement of metabolically active and organic compounds that act as catalysts to produce accelerated plant growth when used in conjunction with a fertilizing program. 946 ml, 4 litres, 10 litres 1-800-489-2215 23 Natural nutrients Natural options for your garden VermiT by Vermicrop Organics Cinagro Biovers VermiT is designed to bring beneficial organisms to hydroponic and soil/soilless gardeners. It can be used with chemical or organic nutrients; the microorganisms mineralize nutrients and break down salts to make them readily available to plants. For best results use every week with every nutrient change. Water once a week in soil, coco, or other media such as rockwool. You can also use it every watering; it will not burn plants. Simply mix your nutrient solution and then add VermiT. All you need is 1.5 cups for every 5 gallons, soil or hydro. Can also be applied as a foliar by mixing 150 ml of VermiT to 1 gallon of water. VermiT contains living organisms and must be stored in a refrigerator. It will last for 7-10 days after the brewing process. After dilution or when added to a nutrient reservoir it is good for an additional 7-10 days. Must be used with non-chlorinated water. VermiT is available two ways: • Brew your own using the lightweight, easy-to-clean extractor. Kit comes with everything you need to get brewing including the VermiT Bio-Cartridges and complete instructions for the simple 5-step process. Replacement cartridges are available. • Drop by selected Brite-Lite/Qué-Pousse stores to pick up fresh-brewed, ready-to-use VermiT. Check in store for more information. Biovers worm casting extracts stimulate and control plant growth. Increases rate of seed germination and young plant development right through to harvest. Boosts plant resistance to disease and pathogens. Use in conjunction with a standard fertilizer program. Brut (unfiltered) formula for soil applications: 4 litres, 20 litres. Clear formula for hydroponic systems: 4 litres, 20 litres. Myke 100% natural growth stimulants containing mycorise. Myke Garden is enriched with potassium and magnesium allowing fruits and vegetables to grow faster, in larger numbers with stronger stems. Engenders uniformity of harvests. 1.5 litres, 4 litres Myke Flowers for flowering plants is enriched with phosphorous and minerals that stimulate root development ensuring a longer, higher quality, more abundant blossoming period. Also decreases watering frequency. 1.5 litres, 4 litres Myke Pro Endo Granulated algae Boost growth and quality of harvest with this 100% natural supplement for soil. Excellent source of potassium and micro-elements. 2 kg 1-800-489-2215 Acadie liquid seaweed is made of Ascophyllum nosodum (rockweed) freshly harvested from the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Acadie seaweed is non toxic and completely organic containing more than 60 major and minor nutrient elements along with other naturally occuring growth promotants. 500 ml, 1 litre, 4 litres Alaska fish emulsion All-purpose, liquid organic product that is deodorized and won’t burn your plants. Popular American brand. Concentrated. Two sizes: 946 ml, 3.79 litres Alaska Morbloom Popular, effective natural product that encourages formation of flowers, buds, and fruit. Concentrated. 946 ml, 3.79 litres Bat guano Bat guano is considered the best of all natural fertilizers. Very popular. Very potent. Can be made into a tea mix for hydroponics or worked into soil. • High phosphorus for flowering. 2 litres, 5 litres • General purpose for vegetative growth. 2 litres, 5 litres Made of microscopic mushrooms called mycorrhizal fungi which are essential to plant growth. Helps plants develop faster with healthier root systems. Mix with earth or soilless media prior to transplanting. Reduces stress and helps plants absorb nutrients. 18 litres, 30 litres 24 Acadie liquid seaweed www.hydroponiX.com Worm castings One of nature’s most effective fertilizers. Rich, odorless, all natural. Must be mixed with earth or soilless mixes. 8 litres, 9 kg. Shrimp compost 100% natural shrimp and peat moss soil amendment rich in trace elements. Use anytime. Very concentrated. Must mix with earth or soilless mixes. 35 litres covers 3 m2 of garden. McInnes fossil bone meal 100% natural granulated transplanter. NPK 0-13-0. Made from natural rock phosphate. Better than regular bone meal. Does not attract animals. Harmless to children and pets. 1.8 kg, 4 kg © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Plant lighting overview Brite-Lite’s guide to grow lights The variety of light options available to indoor gardeners today continues to grow and become more refined. As a result, there is no limit to what you can grow -- vegetables, flowers, or even a banana tree. All will thrive under the tropical sunlight levels that newer technology lights provide. Most people are familiar with the fluorescent tube as a light source for indoor plants. Fluorescents are just fine for some situations. In fact, we recommend them for seedlings, cuttings and low-light plants. Even small flowering plants do very well under the newer types of fluorescent tubes which have enhanced colour spectrums and stronger lumen outputs. The new smaller T5 tubes and compact fluorescent bulbs are becoming very popular too because they give excellent quality light using less power. However, fluorescents just can’t deliver the strong light needed to grow plants taller than about 1 foot (30 cm) or which produce fruit. Fortunately, a wide variety of high intensity light options are available to do the job. A single high-intensity discharge (HID) light can emit up to 145,000 lumens (1000 watts) providing up to 6 feet (1.8 m) of effective light penetration. With the light intensity of HID grow lights, you can hang this type of light higher above your plants than with traditional fluorescents, allowing a single light to cover a much larger growing area. MH and HPS basics There are two types of high intensity grow lights on the market: metal halide (MH) and high pressure sodium (HPS). In general, metal halides provide plants with everything they need for healthy vegetative growth. Many newer full-spectrum halides emit a complete light spectrum offering plants even better allpurpose light. Halide light is pleasing Electrical costs A typical 1000 watt halide system, set on an 18-hour-a-day cycle, will cost you about $30 per month to run, based on an average Canadian hydro charge of about 6 cents per kilowatt hour (kwh). While the hydro costs of high-intensity lighting may seem to be more than other types of lighting, it actually costs less if you compare similar levels of light output using fluorescents or any other type of light. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 and comfortable to work with. The light quality and intensity is so good you can grow any plant indoors that can be grown outdoors—no greenhouse or sunlight required! Sodiums produce a light that can be compared to the golden hue of an autumn sunset. The light quality is predominantly in the yellow/orange/red end of the spectrum. The use of sodium light enhances flowering. It is also the preferred type when natural light already exists. Newer HPS enhanced spectrum bulbs also provide good all-purpose light. Exciting changes have taken place in recent years as HID bulb manufacturers have adapted to an increasing demand to improve HID bulbs for growing plants. Advances in conversion bulb technology now offer indoor gardeners even greater flexibility from a single light system. Technological advances The newest technology in metal halide bulbs provide light that is suitable through both growth and flowering stages. One company has created a full light feeding schedule using a series of metal halides with different Kelvin degrees ratings -each suitable for different stages of plant development. Electronic and digital ballasts for HID lights have become much more reliable in recent years and are growing in popularity. While still more expensive than traditional coil and core ballasts, gardeners appreciate these lighter, cooler and more energy efficient systems. The use of LED light technology for horticulture is still somewhat experimental offering very low energy consumption and very little heat output. At present, however, they are only recommended for plants with low light requirements. For plants with high light requirements other options continue to offer better results. While all these improvements are great for the indoor gardener, a few basic rules have not changed: • The wattage rating of a bulb and ballast must be the same. You cannot use a bulb with a wattage rating different from the ballast system. • You cannot mix metal halide bulbs with high pressure sodium ballasts or viceversa. The only exceptions to this rule is for special conversion bulbs or for ballasts equipped with a switch to convert its operation from halide to sodium. • Bulbs listed as HOR can only be used in horizontal positions. • Bulbs listed as BU can only be used in base up (vertical) positions. www.hydroponiX.com Area Coverage Watts Primary lighting coverage Supplementary lighting 1000 W 6’ x 6’ (2m x 2m) 10’ x 10' (2.5m x 2.5m) 600 W 4’ x 4’ (1.3m x 1.3m) 6’ x 6’ (2m x 2m) 400 W 4’ x 4’ (1.3m x 1.3m) 6’ x 6’ (2m x 2m) 250 W 3’ x 3’ (90cm x 90cm) 4’ x 4’ (1.3m x 1.3m) • Bulbs listed as U (universal) can be used either BU or HOR. Which voltage ? All metal halide and HPS systems will run on standard 110/120 volt household electrical current. However, due to their high wattage they may require their own circuit. Multivolt (MV) HID systems can be converted to 240 volts with some additional wiring. Running at 240 volts will allow more lights per circuit but will not use less electricity. Vertical or horizontal In high intensity light systems, bulbs can be hung either vertically or horizontally over a growing area and are almost always combined with a reflector to direct light down onto your garden. Sodium systems are most efficient when used in a horizontal position. It maximizes the direct light from the long narrow sodium bulb. Metal halides can work effectively in either configuration. While bulbs hung in the vertical position with a wide reflector will spread the light out over a slightly larger area, the light will not be as intense as that emitted from a high-tech horizontal system reflector. Many commercial greenhouse lights have the heavy electrical components (ballast, etc.) as well as the reflector totally integrated for hanging overhead. This is fine if you have a strong ceiling to mount the light to and if you do not wish to install a light mover. Most indoor gardeners prefer to have a remote ballast unit which separates the heavy electrical components from the rest of the light system. The two parts are connected via a heavy-duty power cord. Since the reflector contains only a lightweight bulb, it generally weighs only a few pounds — less than a normal hanging plant — making it easy to hang from standard ceiling hooks. This configuration offers convenience and ease of use, making it much easier to move your lights up and down, or to install them on a light mover. 1-800-489-2215 25 Fluorescents Ideal for houseplants and starting new plants Fluorescent lights are recommended for cultivating small salad gardens and herbs or for starting seeds and cuttings. However, today’s full-spectrum fluorescent tubes are also suitable for some flowering house plants because they imitate natural sunshine. The result is well-developed, healthy plants. While more expensive than ordinary industrial fluorescent tubes, full-spectrum tubes last up to twice as long as regular tubes and fit standard fixtures. Full-spectrum tubes are now available in the more compact and energy efficient T5 size fluorescents. Just as compact fluorescent bulbs are becoming the new standard for regular home lighting, enhanced spectrum versions of these bulbs are also now available for plants. For information regarding safe disposal of compact fluorescents, fluorescent tubes or high intensity lamps, check with your local recycling authorities or Eco-Centre. T5 fluorescent bulbs and fixtures Agrosun full-spectrum fluorescent T12 tubes Best full-spectrum fluorescent tubes available on the market -- up to 20% brighter than other full-spectrum options. Great for plants, people and animals. Sizes fit standard 24”(60 cm) and 48” (120 cm) fluorescent fixtures. 5850 degrees Kelvin. Initial lumen output 2450 for the 48” tube and 975 for the 24” version. AGROSUN SPECTRUM ® AGROSUN SPECTRUM (CRI:93) SUNLIGHT (CRI:100) 350 400 450 500 550 600 650 NM 700 Sun Blaster Lighting™ self ballasted fixtures with high output full spectrum bulbs simulate natural sunlight. Ideal for cuttings or vegetative growth. Use less power than traditional fluorescent tubes. Come ready to plug in and grow. These ultra-compact fluorescent tubes and fixtures also can be connected in series (maximum 8) to create an extended fluorescent growing kit. Available in 3 models. Kits includes fixture, bulb, 6' cord and 2 mounting clips for easy installation. Replacement tubes available Specifications : 24” • 110V/60Hz 6400°K 24 watts 36” • 110V/60Hz 2700°K 39 watts 36” • 110V/60Hz 6400°K 39 watts 48” • 110V/60Hz 2700°K 54 watts 48” • 110V/60Hz 6400°K 54 watts Sun Blaster 200 watts A powerful compact fluorescent bulb from Sun Blaster for use in the garden, office, warehouse, or home environment where flicker free lighting is desired. Full spectrum bulbs available in 6400K and 2700K. Every light has a built-in ballast. Simply screw the mogul base into a ceramic socket. All Sun Blaster Lighting bulbs have a life expectancy of 10,000 hours or more before the intensity will diminish. Mini Blaster 125 watts An all-purpose compact fluorescent bulb from Sun Blaster for use in the garden, office, warehouse, or home environment where flicker free lighting is desired. Full spectrum (6400K). Every light comes with a built-in ballast. Just screw the mogul base into a ceramic socket. All Sun Blaster Lighting bulbs have a life expectancy of 10,000 hours or more before the intensity will diminish. Degrees Kelvin and the corresponding colour spectrum 10 000K 9000K 8000K 7000K 6000K 5000K 4000K 3000K 2000K 1000K 10 000˚ Kelvin: Midnight arctic sun. The bluest of all the lights. T5 fluorescent fixtures Sun Blaster Lighting™ now offers a ballasted 4-foot fixture with integrated reflector that accomodates 4 T5 bulbs side by side. Kit comes with high output, full spectrum (6400K) bulbs that simulate natural sunlight. Ideal for cuttings or vegetative growth. Comes ready to plug in and grow. Replacement tubes available. 26 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com 5000˚ - 7000˚ Kelvin: Promotes bushy growth. Ideal for rapid growth phase. 4000˚ Kelvin: Cool White Fluorescents. Can be used as a supplemental blue lighting and is fine for propagation. 2000˚ - 2500˚ Kelvin : High pressure sodium light. More red and orange in the light for propagation and blooming. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 High intensity bulbs HPS and MH technology continues to offer lots of choice In general, Metal Halide bulbs are designed for vegetative plant growth and high pressure sodium (HPS) bulbs are for flowering and fruit bearing phases. Newer spectrum-enhanced bulbs of both varieties can perform well as an all-round bulb during all phases. Conversion bulbs allow gardeners to switch between MH and HPS bulbs in the same light system. (Never mix different bulb types with different ballasts unless they are conversion bulbs specifically designed for this purpose.) HPS sodium bulbs Good general purpose “LU” bulbs for flowering. Concentrated in the orange-red spectrum. 400, 600, 750, 1000 watts. Hortilux HPS bulbs Simply the best high pressure sodium bulb on the market. Provides 25% more energy in the violet, blue and green spectrum than standard high pressure sodiums, while maintaining an optimal red spectrum. 400, 600 and 1000 watts HPS SonAgro™ 430 Spectrum enhanced sodium bulbs feature increased blue and offer an overall improved lumen output. Use with an HPS ballast during all phases of growth. 430 watts Sunmaster Cool Deluxe Imitates daylight. Premium metal halide lamp for strong vegetative growth. Maximum blue for seedling and vegetative stages. 400, 1000 watts Week 1 of flower Next to last week of flower Final Week Flavour and Oil Production Day light Simulation Full spectrum 3K Full spectrum Reds for Flowering Hortilux Ultra Ace conversion bulb Reds for Flowering/ fruiting 24000 2100 LU 600 watt 84000 18000 2100 LU 750/ED watt 110000 24000 2100 LU 750/PSL watt 112000 24000 2100 LU 1000 watt 140000 24000 2100 LU 1000 watt 125000 18000 2100 53000 24000 2100 LU 400 watt 55000 24000 2100 LU 600 watt 86000 16000 2100 LU 1000 watt 145000 24000 2100 METAL HALIDE Lumens Hours Degrees Kelvin MH 400 watt U 36000 20000 4000 MH 1000 watt U 110000 12000 4000 110000 10000 4000 110000 12000 3000 MS 1000 watt U 80000 9000 5500 SUN PULSE METAL HALIDE Lumens Hours Degrees Kelvin SunPulse 400 watt 10K n/a* 20000 10000 SunPulse 400 watt 3K n/a* 20000 3000 SunPulse 400 watt 4.2K n/a* 20000 4200 SunPulse 400 watt 6.4K n/a* 20000 6400 Son Agro LU 430 watt Hortilux Phillips MH 1000U/BT37 watt Sunmaster Warm Deluxe MH 1000 watt U Sunmaster Cool Deluxe SunPulse for Digital Ballasts SunPulse 600 watt 10K n/a* 20000 10 000 SunPulse 600 watt 3K n/a* 20000 3000 SunPulse 600 watt 4K n/a* 20000 4000 SunPulse 600 watt 6.4K n/a* 20000 6400 SunPulse 750 watt 10K n/a* 20000 10 000 SunPulse 750 watt 3K n/a* 20000 3000 SunPulse 750 watt 4K n/a* 20000 4000 SunPulse 750 watt 6.4K n/a* 20000 6400 SunPulse 1000 watt 10K n/a* 20000 10 000 SunPulse 1000 watt 3K n/a* 20000 3000 SunPulse 1000 watt 4K n/a* 20000 4000 SunPulse 1000 watt 6.4K n/a* 20000 6400 CONVERSION BULBS Lumens Hours Degrees Kelvin 45000 24000 2100 1000 watt (for 1000 HPS) 120000 20000 4500 400 watt (for 400W HPS) 39000 12000 4500 Sodium Conversion 360 watt (for MH 400) Hortilux Ultra Ace conversion lamps are HPS bulbs that work with a MH ballast. Provides optimum red spectral energy required for flowering. Available in 360 watts. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 51000 *not applicable to bulb performance Last week of Veg. 10K 4K LU 400 watt Premium metal halide lamp for strong vegetative growth. Maximum blue for seedling and vegetative stages. 1000 wattt Grow Stage 6.4K Degrees Kelvin Sunmaster Warm Deluxe Imitates daylight. sun pulse lamps - mixing chart Majority of Veg. Hours bulbs are economical and do an adequate job during the vegetative phase of the plants. 400,1000 watts These metal halide lamps are specially engineered for plants and other living things. Designed specifically to work with high frequency digital ballasts. Available in 3000K, 4000K, 6400K and 10,000K. The choice available allows growers to mix and match to create perfect blends of light to meet the specific needs of plants from new seedlings to mature plants ready for harvest. These lamps are suited for all manufacturers of electronic ballasts and are engineered to withstand high frequencies generated by these systems (25Khz – 130Khz). A lighting schedule shows how to mix and match these bulbs at different stages of plant growth. The Sun Pulse line is available in the 4 Kelvin spectrums noted above in 400, 600, 750 and 1000 watts.. Seeding/ Cutting Lumens Standard metal halide These “MH U” Sun Pulse MH lamps by Life Light Technology Degree Kelvin HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM www.hydroponiX.com for Metal Halide 1-800-489-2215 27 High intensity light kits Plenty of options to fit your needs and budget Open gear box Open ballasts are constructed with UL listed components. The open design gives maximum cooling. All units offer dual voltage (120 & 240v). Powder coat paint protects the life of each unit. Mounted on sturdy metal plate with carry handle. If you are looking for a remote ballast with top components at a very low price, this is the best choice. Wired and ready to plug in. 3 year warranty. Available: • 1000W HPS • 600W HPS • 400W HPS Lamp cord socket sold separately. Dual ballast Dual voltage steel case ballast converts between MH and HPS at the flick of a switch. Dual voltage option (120 & 240v). 120v power cord included, 240V cord sold separately. Powder coat paint finish. Rugged design with superior cooling. Extra soft feet to greatly reduce noise and vibration. 5 year warranty. UL listed. Available: 1000 watts. Lamp cord socket sold separately. Lumatek Dual Voltage digital electronic ballasts Lumatek is the world’s leading supplier of digital ballasts to horticulture. Tests have shown that the stable light output produced by Lumateks make them up to 27% brighter and more efficient than common core-and-coil ballasts. Lumateks are also 10-15% brighter than most other brands of digital ballasts on the market. The result is more lumens produced per watt of energy consumed. Lumatek ballasts are silent and produce less heat than standard core-and-coil ballasts. They are also very compact and much lighter in weight. The microprocessors built into Lumateks allow the ballasts to properly detect and power both Metal Halide (MH) and High Pressure Sodium (HPS) bulbs. They are programmed to allow a “soft start” that does not create power surges and will allow lamps to reach full brightness in less than 1 minute. Lumateks also include a safety feature that protects the ballast and the bulb against sudden power loss, power spikes and brownouts. All Lumateks come with a 15 ft. RF shielded output cord. Lumateks have proven to be very reliable and offer a 5-year warranty (full 3-year guarantee + 2-year prorata). 400 watt, 600 watt and 1000 watt. All units from Brite-Lite come complete with a universal socket cord compatible with most reflectors. We always recommend using a a pre-assembled light system. However, for your convenience, we also offer top quality high intensity discharge (HID) lighting replacement ballasts and components -- all CSA approved! These components can also be used to build your own HID light system. However, the services of an experienced electrician are needed to even consider attempting to assemble your own system. Also remember that while individual components may be CSA approved, a do-ityourself assembled light is not. Ballast kits Quality line of remote ballasts. Contains a ballast and premium capacitor in all kits along with an igniter for the lamp types that require it. This assembly must be wired by a licensed electrician. Individual components are CSA and UL listed. Multi voltage (120 240v). Available HPS 400 watts, 600 watts and 1000 watts and Metal Halide 1000 watts. Ceramic socket Quality multi-purpose, universal ceramic socket with lead wires. Good for HPS and MH. (5kv) Lamp Cord Lamp cord with ceramic socket fits the Open Gear Box and Dual Voltage assembled light kits. 28 1-800-489-2215 Relay Switches These switches allow you to switch the power from one ballast to two different bulbs -- particularly useful if you have two 12-hour “flowering” rooms. Two models: • 120 volt • 240 volt Hardware and other accessories • Tarpline shock cords: Adjustable straps with which you can hang and adjust the height of your lights. • Pig Tail extension: 6 ft. extension cord with plug 14/3. Also available individually: capacitors, igniters, ballast cords, strain relief connectors, octagonal box, octo box cover, marettes, etc. www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Reflectors and light movers Enhance grow light performance with these reflector options A reflector makes a big difference to lighting efficiency by directing all the light possible down towards your plants. You can further enhance the overall reflectivity of your growing area by painting the walls white, or even better, lining your growing area walls with white plastic or reflective material such as Mylar (see page 13). Some reflector models offer the added benefit of helping to extract heat created by high intensity lights. If too much heat is a problem in your grow room, consider some of the air-cooled reflector options shown here. Angel Wing horizontal reflectors Standard 24” angel wing horizontal reflectors. Available in white or pebbled aluminum. Includes bracket. Solarix vertical reflector Vertical 42” reflector. Available in white or chrome. Includes bracket. Parabolix vertical reflectors 48” vertical parabolic reflectors. Available in white. Includes bracket. Kool Tube air-cooled reflector Hydrofarm Pro Ultralite reflector Outperforms all others in its class by as much as 30%. The exclusive symmetrical 8-sided design and incredible specular pebblestone aluminum interior puts out more light in a more uniform pattern than just about anything on the market. High performance, light weight at a reasonable price. Use with horizontal bulbs. 400 watt, 600 watt and 1000 watt systems. 6” and 8” air-cooled reflectors These air-cooled reflectors (6” and 8”) are for the serious grower who demands wide spread light for plants with a large canopy. Hinged glass with safety chain for easy lamp changes and cleaning. Comes with 6” or 8” ducts fully adjustable to additional sizes with add-on flanges (sold separately). Comes complete with safety glass, 15 foot 14 gauge wire cable and adjustable socket. Two hanging brackets for ceiling mount included. Ready to plug in after you install a lamp and connect to a remote ballast. Glass is sealed into the frame with silicone. Rubber gasket gives years of quiet operation with no air leaks. Reflector is lined with spectral pebble reflective material for smooth and even light distribution. Now 4” longer and pre-wired, the re-modeled Kool Tube air-cooled reflector delivers excellent, efficient cooling in a compact and effective fashion. Magnets used to mount and secure the external reflector wings make it easy to adjust and tailor light footprints to individual specifications. Just plug it in and watch plants grow. Minimizes problems associated with heat build-up in grow rooms. Inline installation of two or more units increases cooling efficiency. Extends optimal light coverage with 22” (55.5 cm) of borosilicate heat resistant glass. Pebbled aluminum insert delivers superior reflectivity. Rust resistant white metal end collars make it easy to clean. Socket brackets unscrew for hassle-free bulb installation and maintenance. Comes equipped with a 15 ft. (4.6m) lamp cord compatible with most remote HID ballast systems. Entire fixture, including glass measures 6” x 29” in length (15cm x 73.5 cm). Adjustable, pre-installed metal eye hooks make it easy to hang. When adding extra lights is not an option, light movers can encourage more uniform growth without continually moving your plants. Plants in the corner will grow just as well as those in the centre. In addition, moving lights eliminates shading so plants grow more evenly top to bottom. All tracks and movers can be used with vertical or horizontal reflectors and 400, 600 and 1000 watt light systems. Light Rail 3.5 with Intelli-drive (Light Rail 3.5 and Intelli-drive sold separately.) The intelli-drive robotic trolley quietly moves an HID light along the 6’ Light Rail track. Built-in adjustable time delay can be set from 1 - 60 seconds to pause the Intelli-drive at each end for more balanced growth. 2 year warranty. Completes a round trip in 6 minutes. • Light Rail 3 Add-a-lamp A 6’ device that butts up to the end of the master rail allowing 2 lights to move simultaneously with one robotic trolley. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Hydrofarm Light Track A best seller! This popular linear track works to hang either horizontal or vertical reflectors. It has a heavy-duty, fourwheel carrier, quiet no-drip motor with lifetime lubrication, and full 1-year guarantee. Works on a 14-minute cycle. Pre-wired with 7' (2.1 m) power cord, hardware and instructions. Least expensive mover on the market. Excellent quality. Available: • 6’ (1.8 m) • 4’ (1.2 m) www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 29 Air quality Options for clean, odour-free air Odor-X carbon filters Outdoors Mother Nature takes care of producing clean, fresh air. Indoor growing areas need help to remove dirt, pollen, bacteria and unwanted mouldy, musty odours. Here are several effective ways to keep the air in your indoor growing area fresh and clean. Carbon is one of nature’s best air cleaners to eliminate odours effectively and economically. Odor-X carbon filters contain 100% Australian RC-4/8 virgin activated carbon which is the oldest, lightest and purest natural coal-derived carbon currently available. The granulates are sized to provide optimum air flow for filtering organic particles. Simply match the Odor-X filter with a centrifugal fan of the appropriate cfms. The fan draws air through the filter to scrub out impurities and odour. A carbon filter can be used to scrub air inside a grow room or can be connected to the ventilation system extracting air from a growing area. Removes particles and absorbs odours efficiently for up to 18 months depending on the level of humidity in the growing area. Available in 4” (222 cfm), 6” (498 cfm), 8” (750 cfm), 10” (850 cfm) and 12”(1700 cfm). Recommended filter cfms should match the fan’s cfm rating. Ozium deodorizers Aerosol spray that destroys odours, helps reduce bacteria, smoke, etc. Non toxic. Two formats: • 20 g. manual sprayer. Portable. Keep in your pocket, purse or car. • 225 g. can, metered spray for use with Time Mist dispenser. Time Mist dispenser Automatically sprays a standard dose of Ozium deodorizer every 15 minutes. Place dispenser about 2 meters above floor. Using dispenser, 225 g lasts about 30 days. Requires two “D” cell batteries, sold separately. PROfilters carbon filters Ultra-violet ozonators Effectively eliminates all odours. Quiet and efficient operation. For small spaces, use with a timer. Three models available: Uvonair 1000 – for rooms up to 1000 cu. ft., Uvonair 3000 – for rooms up to 3000 cu. ft., Uvonair 5000 – for rooms up to 5000 cu. ft. • In-line ultra-violet ozonators also available: Uvonair UV-80H – for rooms up to 5000 cu. ft. Model Bulb Room-size Uvonair® 1000 UV bulb 1000 cu.ft Uvonair® 3000 UV bulb 3000 cu.ft Uvonair 5000 UV bulb 5000 cu.ft UV-80H 2 UV bulbs 5000 cu.ft ® Most carbon filters utilize 65% of the carbon available by only filtering through the top section of the carbon filter, leaving the bottom section unused. PROfilter uses an innovative patented design allowing the user to reverse the filter, benefiting from the use of 100% of the carbon available and effectively extending the unit’s life span. Manufactured with only the finest TC940 virgin 4mm grainsized carbon, PROfilter effectively removes 99.5% of odours. Rated for a continuous worry-free operation. PROfilter can be used for commercial or residential applications. Available: 6” (450 cfm), 8” (900 cfm), 10” (1140 cfm), 12” (1300 cfm). Odor Sok These multi layered carbon cloth bags are an excellent filtering option for air intakes. • Easy to assemble and disassemble. • Works in humid environments • Machine wash when dusty (no detergent) • Tumble dry when wet • Air flow capacity from 100 to 2400 cf/m • Sizes inc: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16 inch. Odor-Sok Air Filters are constructed using bundles of microscopic activated carbon filaments and fibres. By controlling fibre width to 20 nm, absorption rate of carbon cloth is similar to that of a single exposed carbon particle. Air flows evenly across the carbon and increased surface area. Odor-Sok Air Filters retain all the properties of deep filter bed canisters. Faster absorption rates means smaller filter equipment and up to thirty times less carbon in use for the same result over a one year period. ONA Gel Polymer gel saturated with ONA liquid concentrate eliminates most organic and inorganic odours. Active ingredients: 44 essential oils and plant-derived compounds mainly from Asia and Australia. Non toxic, environmentally safe. Simply open lid and place in desired location. Regulate by exposing more or less surface to air. Good for 3-5 weeks. Reconstitute by adding ONA liquid concentrate. 4 litres, 20 litres ONA Liquid Concentrate Eliminates unwanted odours. Add to misting systems or humidifiers for odour control. Place in small containers or wick jars and set in contaminated areas. Also used to reconstitute ONA Gel. 1 litre, 4 litres, 20 litres 30 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Fans and ventilation Fans help regulate temperature and humidity A circulating or oscillating fan will keep air moving and help strengthen plants. It will also help to regulate temperatures and reduce humidity. Stealth series 3-speed fans Quiet and energy efficient Stealth fans create a powerful cooling air flow. Breakresistant blade, permanently lubricated motor. Three models available: • 16” oscillating wall mount fan • 18” oscillating pedestal fan • 20” floor fan Vent fans are used to exhaust warm stale air from an enclosed growing area to be replaced by fresh air. Fan sizes indicate that volume of air that can be extracted from a growing area in cubic feet per minute (cfm). Choose a size that can remove all air in 5 minutes or less. To calculate the right size, multiply room height X width X length and divide by 5. When in doubt, order one size larger. Vortex VTX Powerfans Air King 16” wall fan These high performance inline blowers feature superior steel construction with powder coated baked paint and convenient North-American sizes from 4 to 12 inches. Speed controllable and balanced motors with permanently lubricated ball bearings ensure vibration-free operation. Galvanized mounting brackets for horizontal or vertical installation. Proudly made in Canada by Atmosphere, the Vortex Powerfan comes with a power cord, ready to plug in, installed by the manufacturer. These blowers feature a 10 year warranty. Air King 3-Speed 16” oscillating wall mount fan. Pull cord On/Off. 3-speed rotary knob: low, medium and high speeds. Powder coated front grille. 1/20 HP motor. Oscillates 90° or can be locked in nonoscillating position. Caframo circulation fan This quality 7” (18 cm) 2-speed safety fan is an inexpensive way to keep the air moving. Tilting stand, soft plastic blade. Includes cord and plug. Replacement blade available. Speedmaster fan speed control Heavy duty speed control ideal for in-line fans. Made from solid ABS plastic with a grounded plug. The Speedster motor speed controller controls the speed of your fans, blowers or pumps. Variable speed, OFF and full ON settings. A great little tool. 120V, 15 amp maximum. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 Model Style Air Inlet Air Outlet CFM Amps Vortex VTX 400 Turbine 4” 4” 172 CFM 0.65 Vortex VTX 600 Turbine 6” 6” 449 CFM 0.8 Vortex VTX 800 Turbine 8” 8” 747 CFM 1.6 Vortex VTX 1000 Turbine 10” 10” 790 CFM 2 Vortex VTX 1200 Turbine 12” 12” 1140 CFM 3.2 Vortex V1200 XL Turbine 12” 12” 2050 CFM 2.2 Ventilation hardware and accessories Fan flanges: Assorted adapters available. Backdraft damper: High-quality Insulated vinyl hoses: Available by the foot or in sections: 4” x 25’, 6” x 25’, 8” x 25’, 12” x 25’ steel, auto-spring closure prevents cold air from entering when fan not in use. 4”, 6”, 8”, 12” Worm gear clamps: Connect flexible duct to ventilation hardware. 4”, 6”, 8”, 12” Flexible vinyl and aluminum hoses: 4” x 25’, 6” x 25’, 8” x 25’, Vent adapters: Reducing flanges assist in making different sized ventilation openings fit together. 10” x 25’, 12”x 25’ www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 31 Environmental controllers Solutions to help manage the growing environment Temp Stat Cool Use this device to monitor when a growing area becomes too warm and needs to have its ventilation system turned on to extract hot air. Marina digital thermometer Continuously monitor the temperature of a nutrient solution to ensure that it remains at the optimal temperature of 200 C. Temperatures above this level create a breeding ground for plant problems such as pythium. Gyros digital min/max thermometer/hygrometer This battery operated digital unit measures min/max temperatures and relative humidity. Integrated clock reports times that measurements are taken. Temperatures monitored range from -500C to 700C. TimeMaster dual grounded timer Specially made for timing HID lights, fans and blowers, hydroponic garden pumps and air conditioners. On/off switch. Dual outlet with 96 on/off settings with 24-hour am/ pm dial. Maximum total draw 15 amps. Intermatic timers T101-T104 Series: Grounded, industrialquality, 40-amp timers. Require in-line wiring. 110 volt models can control up to three 1000-watt fixtures. 220 volt models can control up to six 1000-watt lights. One on-off cycle, 30 min. increments. Additional tripper pins available to increase the number of on-off cycles. Four models: • T101 - 110 volt. • T102 - 220 volt. • T103 - 110 - volt & 220-volt • T104 - 220-volt dual-line capacity. Environment or climate control is important to the success of an indoor garden. The more closely you can duplicate “Mother Nature”, the better. Here you will find what you need to do the job. • Timers are used to automatically turn on and off your lighting systems. Multi on/off cycle timers can also be used to regulate pumps, CO2 units, fans and so on. High intensity lighting requires a grounded timer for safety. • Temperature control: Ideal temperatures for salad greens/ culinary herbs are 600 F to 700 F (150 - 210 C) at night and 680 F to 750 F (200 - 250 C) during the day. Flowering plants such as tomatoes prefer 5-100 F (2-50 C) warmer. Grozone Fan speed control TV1 day / night Automatically slows down or speeds up centrifugal fans to respect user selected temperature day and night setpoints. Enables a much tighter and precise temperature curve. While most ON/OFF controls usually yield a variation over 5°F / 3°C, TV1 will yield a variation below 2°F / 1°C. 6 foot cord with temperature sensor precise to 2°F / 1°C. Can drive single phase 120 Vac induction motor type fans up to 750 watts. Any forced ventilation rooms should be equipped with this type of control to promote faster and more vigorous growth. Grozone TEMP-1 day / night thermostat TP1 Controls cooling or heating equipment according to a daytime or nighttime set-point. 6 foot cord with temperature sensor precise to 2°F / 1°C. Can power 120Vac equipment up to 15 amp. Typical control differential stands between 4° and 7°F / 2° and 4°C. Grozone day & night periodic timer with photocell CY1 Controls any 120Vac equipment such as pumps or fans on a periodic repeat cycle. The ON duration spans from 10 sec to an hour . The OFF duration spans from 1 minutes to 12 hours. The unit can function day and night or during daytime only. Grozone short period cycle timer with photocell (CY2) Controls any 120Vac equipment such as pumps or fans on a periodic repeat cycle. The ON duration spans from 5 sec to 30 minutes. The OFF duration spans from 5 sec to 60 minutes. The unit can function day and night or during daytime only. Standard timers: Heavy-duty timer ready to plug into electrical outlets. Up to 24 On, 24 Off cycles. Maximum 15 amps, 30 min. increments, 110 volt. Grounded or non grounded models. Titan digital timer: Quality, inexpensive programmable timer. LED display. 7-day, 14-event, 1-minute intervals. Internal rechargeable battery included. 32 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 CO2 management Adding C02 to a growing environment can increase production Carbon dioxide (CO2) is essential for plant growth. CO2 is the gas that humans breathe out and plants take in. Indoors, growth slows down as your plants use up the available CO2. As greenhouse pros know, the introduction of CO2 to your greenhouse or grow room greatly increases growth rates. If lighting levels are adequate, and you have proper environmental control equipment in place to control temperature and humidity, then the addition of CO2 will reward you greatly with much faster growth and increased yield. CO2 enrichment kit There are two main ways to introduce CO2 to your grow room — a CO2 enrichment system that distributes CO2 from a tank (best for smaller grow rooms), and a CO2 generator, which actually burns propane to create CO2 — best for larger grow rooms and greenhouses. Grozone Climate controller Remote sensor for RH, T° and CO2, controls 2 outputs, 24h data logger HTC: Perfect central piece of control to any grow room. Remote sensor (with included 25-ft cable, can work up to 200 feet) provides higher precision and reliability. Performs any two of the following control functions: heating, cooling, humidifying, dehumidifying, cooling and dehumidifying, hourly ventilation, CO2 enrichment or ventilation. Review performance by reading through the integrated 24-hour data logger (minimum, maximum and average values for each hour of operation). Incorporates fail-safe values for each output in case of sensor problem. Enables higher priority output selection to prevent both outputs operating at the same time. Grozone CO2 controller 0-5000 ppm CO2 This easy-to-use CO2 controller determines precisely when to activate and shut off CO2 generators to maintain user-defined LOW and HIGH CO2 values in the grow room. The unit can deactivate CO2 enrichment during the night cycle and perform CO2 evacuation as well. The CO2 sensor is located in the controller box. Grozone dual zone CO2 controller 0-5000 ppm CO2D Creates no heat! This kit includes everything you need to safely release CO2 into your grow room in the required amount for optimum growth. Includes already assembled regulator and pressure gauge, solenoid valve, precise flowmeter, 20’ (6 m) pre-drilled distribution tubing, timer and hangers. Simply connect to a CO2 tank available through your local Brite-Lite/Qué-Pousse store. Complete instructions included. A professional kit, best on the market. 0.5-15. CO2 tanks Electrostatic tested 20 lb tanks, brass valves. Refillable. Convenient carrying handle with safety guard. • Refill also available at stores. Exchange your tank for a full one at a very competitive price. Controls the CO2 levels in two zones (or two rooms) simultaneously. Review performance by reading through the integrated 24-hour data logger (minimum, maximum and average values for each hour of operation). Special operating mode to operate two zones with only one CO2 generator. Zone remote sensors include 25-ft cables. Affordable alternative when operating multiple zones. Grozone CO2 generator LP5 15 000 BTU/hr (propane) The LP5 generator is a 15 000 BTU/hour propane burner activated via a 120Vac power cord. The electronic smart valve lights the gas nozzle only when necessary reducing waste of propane with a regular standing pilot. The unique collapsible enclosure design enables space and shipping cost savings and is protected by a high temperature coating. The unit can either rest on the floor or be suspended from the ceiling. The LP5 model will generate about 17 cubic feet of pure CO2 every hour of operation. Grozone CO2 generator LP10 30 000 BTU/hr (propane) The LP10 generator is a 30 000 BTU/hour propane burner activated via a 120Vac power cord. The electronic smart valve lights the gas nozzle only when necessary reducing waste of propane with a regular standing pilot. The unique collapsible enclosure design enables space and shipping cost savings and is protected by a high temperature coating. The unit can either rest on the floor or be suspended from the ceiling. The LP10 model will generate about 35 cubic feet of pure CO2 every hour of operation. © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12 www.hydroponiX.com 1-800-489-2215 33 Plant care and pest control Options to prevent or solve common problems Illuminated microscope Illuminated pocket microscope enlarges 30 times. Great for identifying insects/pests. Good quality. Requires 2 AA batteries (not included). 14 cm (5 1/2”) long. Predatory insects Insects battling insects: use predators to attack and destroy unwanted pests without affecting your plants. Once the pest population is eliminated the predators die too because they have nothing left to feed upon. Special order predators direct from your nearest Brite-Lite or Qué-Pousse store pre-paid for pickup the following week. Check with your nearest store for delivery days and types of predators available. Here are examples of some common insect pests and an efficient biological solution. spider mites thrips APHIDS White fly fungus gnat persimilis Cucumeris Lady bugs encarsia hypoasis problem As an ounce of prevention, start by keeping plants clean. If you suspect you have any pest infestations or disease, examine plants closely. Don’t delay; take appropriate and immediate action. Package of 6 stakes with 12 small sticky traps to place upright near your plants. Ideal for catching flying or crawling insects. Great for diagnosing pest problems. Horiver Sticky Traps Simple, very effective, safe, and easy-touse way of catching aphids, whiteflies, fungus gnats, and other flying insects. No chemicals, no odours. Place throughout garden to alert when insect pest problems occur. Package of 10 traps, each measures 10 cm by 25 cm. Yellow to attract most flying pests. Scott’s Eco-Sense Kill all stages of aphids, mites and whitefly. Formulated from pyrethrins and canola oil. Crops can be sprayed up to one day before harvest. 1litre RTU, 500 ml concentrate. Safer’s End-All II Safer’s End-All II Miticide & Insecticide will control all stages of aphids, spider mites, whitefly, and spittle bugs. 500 ml concentrate solution Sticky Sticks Doktor Doom Botanics spray Safer Defender fungicide Multi-purpose vaporizing insecticide by Doktor Doom for house and garden plants. 100% organic, pyrethrin-based (0.20%). Can use up to 3 days before harvest (always wash produce thoroughly). No CFCs. 400 g Ready-to-use, all-natural fungicide for black spot, powdery mildew etc. • 1 litre spray bottle. • 500 ml concentrate Doktor Doom House & Garden Insecticide Scent of a predator’s urine is an effective, natural, environmentally friendly way to keep unwanted animals away from outdoor gardens. Coyote urine keeps away deer and racoons. 480 ml, 960 ml Eliminate fungus gnats and other insects with this effective house and garden spray by Doktor Doom. Non toxic. Spray directly on grow media, baskets, buckets and grow tables to control fungus gnats for up to 60 days. 500 g Coyote urine animal repellent Predator urine dispenser Simple, easy to use plastic container to hold predator urine used as an animal repellent. Use handle to suspend from low hanging branches. Reusable. For more about leaf wash solutions and other gardening tools for plant care and maintenance see pages 12 and 13. 34 1-800-489-2215 www.hydroponiX.com © Brite-Lite Group Vol. 12