waterfarm standard controller
Transcription
waterfarm standard controller
For over 40 years, General Hydroponics has provided quality hydroponic products that are recognized by growers worldwide. As the industry leader in innovation, we deliver the absolute best in simple and sustainable products and technologies. Based in Sonoma County, California, the team at General Hydroponics is constantly researching, developing and testing our products to ensure that they exceed customer expectations. Whether you are an expert grower or a beginner, expect nothing but the best from General Hydroponics. Sustainability, quality, simplicity and innovation. That’s our commitment to our customers, our families and our planet. Those words guide our growth, and lead us into the future. Live, learn and grow with General Hydroponics NUTRIENTS Flora Series............................................................. 3 FloraNova................................................................ 4 CocoTek................................................................... 5 FloraDuo.................................................................. 6 Maxi Series.............................................................. 7 SUPPLEMENTS RapidStart & FloraBlend.................................... 9 Floralicious Plus.................................................... 10 Floralicious Grow & Bloom............................... 11 Armor Si & CALiMAGic....................................... 12 Diamond Nectar................................................... 13 Liquid KoolBloom................................................ 14 Dry KoolBloom...................................................... 15 FloraNectar............................................................. 16 FloraShield.............................................................. 17 FloraKleen............................................................... 18 SubCulture M & B................................................. 19 SYSTEMS WaterFarm.............................................................. 35 PowerGrower......................................................... 36 RainForest............................................................... 37 AeroFlo..................................................................... 38 EuroGrower & MegaFarm.................................. 39 EcoGrower............................................................... 40 Panda Reservoir & Snapture............................ 40 Controllers.............................................................. 41 ENVIRONMENT Pumps....................................................................... 42 GENERAL ORGANICS GO Box..................................................................... 21 BioThrive.................................................................. 22 CaMg+..................................................................... 23 BioRoot.................................................................... 24 BioBud...................................................................... 25 BioWeed.................................................................. 26 BioMarine................................................................ 27 Diamond Black...................................................... 28 Ancient Forest....................................................... 29 MEDIA CocoTek Coir Bags & 5kg bale......................... 45 CocoTek Bricks, 8in Basket & Mats................. 46 Rapid Rooter.......................................................... 47 RESOURCES SUPPORT AzaMax.................................................................... 31 pH Up & Down...................................................... 32 Standard Reference Solutions......................... 33 pH Test Indicator.................................................. 33 Essentials of Successful Gardening............... 49 Advanced Growing Techniques...................... 51 Why Use Hydroponic Nutrients...................... 53 Understanding Feedcharts............................. 54 Feedcharts.............................................................. 56 FURTHER INFO Our Story................................................................ 68 Bulk Sizes................................................................ 70 Vermicrop Organics®.......................................... 72 3 NUTRIENTS Providing superior results in both soil and hydroponic gardens, hydroponic nutrients offer total nutrition as a mineral-based plant food. Since they lack soil, hydroponic systems rely on nutrient solution to provide the essential elements that plants need. Unlike most commonly available plant food, hydroponic fertilizers must contain the entire spectrum of necessary elements. That makes them a robust and complete nutrient source suitable for all gardens. PERFORMANCE PACK® We threw in everything but the kitchen sink, so you can get outstanding results in hydro, coco or soil. Thousands of other gardeners have already experienced the benefits, and this pack comes at an irresistible value. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you’ll want to try the Flora Series Performance Pack. Performance Pack Includes: • 16oz FloraMicro • 4oz FloraKleen • 16oz FloraGro • 1oz Rapid Start • 16oz FloraBloom • 1oz Floralicious Plus • 8oz FloraBlend • 1oz pH Test Indicator • 8oz Liquid KoolBloom 2 available in: 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon FLORA SERIES® GOOD THINGS COME IN THREES Just like people, plants benefit from an appropriate diet. But different types of plants have significantly different nutrient needs, and these needs change during each growth cycle. So what’s the best way to keep your fruits, vegetables and flowers happy and growing? • FLORAGRO builds vigorous roots, stalks and foliage. THE FIRST. THE BEST. At General Hydroponics, we wrestled with that question four decades ago. Our solution: Flora Series. First formulated in 1976, Flora Series is the original three-part hydroponic-based nutrient system. And thanks to its ingredients, consistent performance and unparalleled results, it’s the most-used nutrient today. Flora Series consists of three highly concentrated liquid nutrients: • FLORAMICRO provides essential micro nutrients. We recommend FLORAMICRO HARDWATER for hard water with a ppm value above 250. • FLORABLOOM builds robust fruits and flowers. By using different combinations of these products, you can fulfill each plant’s nutrient needs based on its growth stage and environment. Your plants will receive the ideal blend of primary nutrients, secondary nutrients and micronutrients — and the results will show. Get ready for vigorous plants, large flowers, enhanced yields and nutrient-dense crops. Flora Series is a favorite among millions of growers, gardeners, scientists and researchers worldwide. See why for yourself. FloraSeries Feedcharts on pages 57-58 3 available in: 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon FLORANOVA® ANY PLANT, ANY MEDIA FloraNova is a breakthrough in a bottle. Its patented formula gives you the robust fertilizer strength usually found in a dry form, but with the quick application of a liquid. That means you can give your plants the nutrients they need, rapidly and easily. This user-friendly fertilizer hybrid contains a unique combination of minerals and natural additives. It’s ideal for all plants and multiple types of gardening. However you choose to garden, FloraNova delivers the nutrients all your plants require. No more guesswork about the needs of soil gardens versus soilless gardens. And because it releases minerals and nutrients throughout the plant cycle, you can count on rapid growth from new starts all the way to fruits and flowers. FloraNova Feedcharts on pages 59-60 4 TWO STEPS TO PLANT NUTRITION FloraNova takes a two-step approach to bringing nutrients to your plants: • FloraNova Grow supports and nourishes plants from their first moments of growth into later stages. It’s also ideal for delivering needed nutrients to mother plants and new cuttings, so you can establish them with confidence. • FloraNova Bloom, designed specifically for fruiting or flowering stages of growth, promotes vibrant color and higher yields. Key minerals and quality fertilization — FloraNova gives you the best of both worlds. Use Liquid KoolBloom and Floralicious Plus with FloraNova for increased flower production. Remember that due to its high concentration, FloraNova must be shaken vigorously before each use! available in: 8oz • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon COCOTEK® PREMIUM COCO NUTRIENT POWER FOR YOUR COCONUT COIR Culled from the fibrous inner shell of coconuts, coir is often used instead of peat moss because it has a neutral pH level and provides excellent aeration and higher disease resistance. That makes it an ideal soil addition for many vegetables and flowers that thrive in alkaline conditions and need reliable drainage. Now you can put even more power into coconut coir with a formula that makes the most of your amendments. Featuring calcium and magnesium, CocoTek A+B offers an easy-to-use formula that’s designed to enhance your coir. You can deliver nutrition from growth to bloom, giving your plants the benefits of premium nutrients in addition to the many advantages of coir. CocoTek Feedchart on page 65 COIR, MADE BETTER Available in two separate formulas, each CocoTek product is geared toward a specific phase: • COCOTEK GROW A+B: This nutrient combination brings nitrogen and calcium into the crucial vegetative stage of plant growth. • COCOTEK BLOOM A+B: With elevated levels of our proprietary calcium blend, this unique formula is designed for increased yield during flowering or plant maturity. Although the focus of CocoTek is coconut coir enhancement, the formulas also work well in soil and hydroponic setups. CocoTek Media on pages 44-45 5 available in: 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon FLORADUO® A & B A + B = GROWTH A unique nutrient system that’s designed to get your plants growing strong and harvest-ready, FloraDuo comes in two parts: FloraDuo A and FloraDuo B. Whether your plants are at different stages or you have specific flowering requirements for each plant, FloraDuo delivers the primary nutrients, secondary nutrients and micronutrients that they need. FloraDuo’s distinctive dual system allows you to adjust seamlessly to every growth stage, taking plants from seed to harvest with appropriate nutrients along the way. You can change blends as your plants grow, providing them a jump-start as seedlings and helping them transition into blooms or maturity later. FloraDuo Feedcharts on pages 61-62 6 TWO PARTS, ONE SOLUTION By using FloraDuo A and FloraDuo B together, you can give your plants important nutritional benefits. FloraDuo can also be applied as a foliar spray and can be used with hard or soft water. Appropriate for all gardening methods, including coco, soilless, soil and hydroponics, FloraDuo gives you the flexibility you want and the nutrients your plants need throughout the growing season. No matter what kind of plant diversity you’re sporting in your garden, you can tap into the power of this dynamic duo to deliver key nutrients with ease. available in: 2.2lb • 16lb • 50lb MAXI SERIES EASY AND ECONOMICAL Comprising two powdered, mineral-based options that support your plants from beginning to bloom, the Maxi Series is our most cost-effective choice when it comes to nutrients. The one-two nutritional punch comes from MaxiGro and MaxiBloom, a duo of stand-alone, water-soluble formulas with primary nutrients, secondary nutrients and micronutrients. Both are pH-buffered, which means the pH will hold its value once your pH target is met. MaxiGro and MaxiBloom are highly concentrated and dissolve rapidly in water. Their dry form means they are portable and can be easily stored, which makes them a popular choice for outdoor gardeners. Maxi Series Feedcharts on pages 63-64 bulk sizes on page 70 FROM START TO HARVEST The Maxi Series is specifically designed for particular growth stages: • MAXIGRO encourages growth of seedlings and cuttings, giving your plant starts vital nutrition for that crucial vegetative-growth stage early in development. • MAXIBLOOM increases yields and crop quality by promoting prolific flowering and fruiting in a wide diversity of plant types. With a low cost-per-use level and easy transportability, MaxiGro and MaxiBloom can be used for all types of plants and in a variety of water qualities. Whether you’re working in coco coir, hydroponics, soilless mixes or soil, the Maxi Series gives you all the flexibility you need. 7 SUPPLEMENTS and the role they play Properly mixed, high-quality hydroponic nutrients provide everything a plant needs to thrive. But nutrients alone won’t unlock a plant’s full potential and performance. Even though supplements may not contain “food” for a plant, they improve a crop by Vitality & Flavor Accelerator Bloom Boosters Roots Soil Boosters Defense 8Flush introducing essential organic compounds. These assist with nutrient uptake, encourage blooms, protect the root zone and clear excess unused nutrients. Enhancing a garden is easy with the supplement options available from General Hydroponics. RAPIDSTART® FEED YOUR ROOTS You can do everything right while growing — bolster soil health, maintain effective pH levels, choose quality seeds from reliable producers — but without robust and well-maintained roots, your plants may not benefit from all your other efforts. That’s why we designed RapidStart to provide standout support, with a powerful formula your roots will love. Featuring a blend of premium plant extracts and purified mineral nutrients, RapidStart gives roots what they need, no matter where each plant is in its life cycle. The supplement encourages prolific root branching and development, even in the fine root hairs that are crucial for nutrient uptake. BETTER ROOTS, BETTER PLANTS available in: 125ml • 275ml • 500ml 1 Liter • 1 Gallon Without strong roots, plants struggle and must work harder to thrive. RapidStart’s distinctive formula promotes explosive growth in a highly concentrated supplement that’s cost-effective to use. Unlike most root supplements, which tend to be synthetic or microbial, RapidStart contains a proprietary blend of rare plant extracts that have been selected specifically for their ability to spark root growth. These key extracts have proven to be highly beneficial not only for supporting roots, but also for delivering nutrients to plants in the early stages of growth. Whether you’re working in coco blends, soil, soilless setups or hydroponics, RapidStart is ready to support your plants’ root growth, every step of the way. FLORABLEND® STRENGTH AND VIGOR Plants have a remarkable metabolic process, turning available nutrient sources into key components for growth. But sometimes they need extra help — and when they do, FloraBlend is ideal for the task. Fermented from a proprietary mix of plant materials, seaweeds and rock powders. The fermentation method provides a feast for a highly active mixture of microorganisms, so they can multiply quickly and form new compounds. STRONGER ROOTS = MORE GROWTH By developing new compounds that are highly soluble and easily used by plants, FloraBlend contributes to more-vigorous root systems and a stronger plant structure. available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon The biologically derived blend can have a profound impact during the crucial vegetative stage. You’ll see a visible increase in the mass, size and number of roots, stems and foliage. 9 FLORALICIOUS® A REAL VITALITY BOOSTER Floralicious is a plant enhancer and nutrient supplement featuring a potent blend of ingredients to boost plant vigor. The foundation of Floralicious is Floralicious Plus, our No. 1 nutrient additive. This highly concentrated solution is formulated for use in both the vegetative and flowering stages of growth. Packed with powerful seaweed extracts, carbonbuilding components and aromatic oils, Floralicious Plus enhances colors and aromatic qualities. EXACTLY WHAT YOUR PLANTS NEED Floralicious also includes these less-concentrated supplements, designed for particular growth stages: •FLORALICIOUS GROW, specifically blended for vegetative growth, improves nutrient assimilation and helps build the foundation of root and leaf mass that’s needed for superior harvests. •FLORALICIOUS BLOOM, specifically blended for fruiting or flowering stages of growth, improves colors and yields in flowering plants. Whether you’re using prepared soil or soilless mixes, coco blends or hydroponics, Floralicious can help you bring out the best in your plants. FLORALICIOUS® PLUS THE ROOT OF GREAT GROWING Whether plants are just showing their first true leaves or they’re in full flower, they need root support that’s reliable and nutritious. That’s where Floralicious Plus comes in. This concentrated plant nutrient was developed to foster microbial activity in a plant’s root zone — the most important aspect of any gardening endeavor. Soil microorganisms play a key role in keeping plants nourished, and when roots can take advantage of these microbial benefits, they thrive. Metabolic growth is promoted, leading to robust foliage and fruit/flower development. Floralicious Plus gives you the building blocks you need for establishing this kind of solid foundation. DEEP SUPPORT Floralicious Plus features a unique combination of protein-building compounds, seaweed extracts, complex plant sugars and carbon-building components to keep roots nurtured throughout the plant life cycle. The supplement also encourages uptake of minerals and other nutrients to spark metabolic growth and promote flower development. Our No. 1 nutrient additive, Floralicious Plus is a highly concentrated solution that offers benefits for any setup, whether you’re using soil, coco coir, soilless mixes or hydroponics. 10 Plus available in: 4oz • 8oz • 1 Pint 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 9 FLORALICIOUS® GROW THE RIGHT START Getting plants established and thriving can be a challenge for any gardener, whether you’re opting for soil, soilless mixes, coco coir or hydroponics. Providing a foundation that will feed the whole plant, from roots to stems to leaves, is a must — and Floralicious Grow makes it easy for you. A nutrient supplement specifically blended for the growth stage, Floralicious Grow delivers key minerals throughout plants and gives them the kind of foundation they need to be strong. GET GROWING In addition to enhancing leaves and stems, Floralicious Grow gets deep into the roots, where strength matters most. Featuring a blend of marine plants and mineral extracts, our unique supplement focuses on the metabolic activities and nutrient assimilation that get plants growing. A distinctive fermentation process allows these components to work in concert, creating stability, reliability and vigor. No matter what your growing medium, you can start your plants off right with Floralicious Grow. FLORALICIOUS® BLOOM FANTASTIC FRUITS AND FLOWERS All plants have certain needs — from alkaline soil to proper nitrogen levels — but those growing toward fruits and flowers can be especially tricky, since a seemingly nutrient-healthy plant may not produce any blossoms or berries. Consider Floralicious Bloom your new insurance policy. Blended specifically for these plants, Floralicious Bloom is a nutrient supplement that promotes moreabundant harvests and larger flower size. Colors pop more, too, thanks to stronger and more-nourished roots and foliage. Floralicious Bloom goes deep into the soil to foster microbial activity, which can translate into robust and sustained plants that are ready to fruit and flower at their peak. BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL Floralicious Bloom works by combining key minerals and nutrients, which go through a unique fermentation process that maximizes the potency of the blend. As a result, your plants get as much support as possible, with nutrition delivered from roots to blooms. Grow & Bloom available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon Whether you’re trying to increase fruit yields in a backyard garden or growing flowers in a hydroponic setup, Floralicious Bloom can help you grow there. 11 ARMOR SI® RESISTANCE IS BEAUTIFUL When it comes to the many threats that plants face — unexpected cold, surges in heat, wind stress, low light levels — the higher the resistance, the stronger the plant. Let Armor Si help you build a superior level of protection while providing vital supplements that your plants need for growth. Suitable for all types of plants and during all stages of growth, Armor Si improves plant structure and increases light absorption through silica. This not only strengthens a plant’s foliar development, but also raises yields and advances flower and fruit production. DE-STRESS YOUR PLANTS Growing conditions can be unpredictable, even with carefully planned schedules. Sudden cold snaps, a stretch of drought or seemingly endless cloudy days cause your plants stress. While some stress is necessary for vigorous growth, too much can weaken plant structure and harm fruit and flower development. Plants growing in setups where silica isn’t naturally present — such as hydroponics, coco coir or soilless mixes — can be especially prone to difficulty with salinity, mineral deficiency and insects. With Armor Si, you’ll have an extra level of resistance that can help plants thrive even in challenging situations. Use it as a growth enhancer with irrigation water or in addition to your regular fertilizers. CALiMAGic® CALCIUM + MAGNESIUM Calcium and magnesium are a necessary part of growth for many plants, but that doesn’t mean plants get as much as they need naturally. CALiMAGic provides the supplemental elements necessary to optimize plant nutrition and prevent all-too-common problems. available in: 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon WHICH COMES FIRST, ARMOR SI OR CALiMAGic? When using both Armor Si and CALiMAGic, add Armor Si to the reservoir first. A concentrated blend of readily available calcium and magnesium, CALiMAGic is a fully soluble product that won’t clog spray lines or drip emitters, and can be easily combined with fertilizers. MINERAL MAGIC Calcium-intensive plants require higher levels of the mineral to thrive and to avoid issues with growth and production. For instance, tomatoes that don’t have enough calcium develop blossom end rot, a common disorder producing blackened, soft indentations that mar and weaken the fruits. Even if there’s enough calcium in the soil, it may be blocked from getting to the plant because the pH is too low. Or, plants that are prone to magnesium deficiencies, such as peppers, suffer from yellowish and drooping leaves along with reduced disease resistance from root to flower. 12 CALiMAGic delivers the power of calcium and magnesium in a form that prevents secondary-nutrient deficiencies and builds stronger plant structure. available in: 8oz • 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon 11 DIAMOND NECTAR® LET YOUR PLANTS SHINE Diamond Nectar accelerates nutrient For optimal growth, your plants need more than key nutrients. They need to be able to absorb those nutrients, too. That’s what makes Diamond Nectar a true gem. Formulated with humic acid, Diamond Nectar accelerates nutrient absorption through every part of a plant’s roots in a natural process called mineral chelation. This allows the acid to take hold of heavier minerals that plants wouldn’t be able to uptake naturally. By transporting them into plant tissue, Diamond Nectar strengthens the plant while promoting faster growth and larger yields. CHELATION STATION Diamond Nectar is extracted from mined Leonardite, a natural form of humates that occurs between layers of clay, preventing other minerals and impurities from leaching into the Leonardite layer. Acting as a chelator, Diamond Nectar makes micronutrients more available and increases absorption and transportation of vital plant nutrients. The supplement also fosters microbial growth and aids soil development, so you can see benefits throughout your growing space. The addition of Diamond Nectar to both soil-based and soilless gardens is beneficial to crop growth and development. In hydroponic setups, the supplement encourages the coexistence of a complex blend of microorganisms, compounds and substances for a successful system. available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon 13 LIQUID KOOLBLOOM® FLOWER POWER Beautiful blooms come from expert care. Liquid KoolBloom bolsters your efforts with essential nutrients your flowering plants need for vigorous growth, bigger blooms and increased flowering sites. Designed for use between the vegetative and flowering phases, Liquid KoolBloom enriches plants with key components that increase nutrient uptake from roots to buds. With that level of nutrition, more of your buds will get what they need to reach the flowering or fruiting stage, and develop into larger blooms or fruits. GREAT ROOTS, MORE FLOWERS Many types of flowering plants have young, delicate root systems that can be easily disrupted by external stressors, especially during the transition into the flowering and fruiting stage. These challenges can negatively affect that plant cycle and cause buds to fail. Liquid KoolBloom’s unique formula gets plants the key nutrients they require — all the way down to the roots — in a way that strengthens them and promotes robust growth. Liquid KoolBloom is used early to build up flower production, while a companion product, Dry KoolBloom, focuses on the later stages of ripening. 14 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon 13 DRY KOOLBLOOM® FOR FLOWERS AND FRUIT When flowering and fruiting plants are in their last stages of growth, how you address their unique nutrient needs will determine whether you get a bounty or just a bunch of buds. Get bountiful with Dry KoolBloom. Specifically designed for that final push when buds transition to flowers or fruits, Dry KoolBloom is a nutrient supplement rich with phosphorous, potassium and other ripening elements. In combination, these components give plants precisely what they need, from roots to blooms, to be more productive and vigorous. MULTIPLE BENEFITS In addition to increased flower density, Dry KoolBloom promotes greater oil and fragrance production along with faster ripening. Highly concentrated and cost-effective, this supplement offers macronutrients that are primarily responsible for flower and fruit growth. Dry KoolBloom is used for the ripening stage to increase the intensity of the plant’s flowering and fruiting process. A companion product, Liquid KoolBloom, focuses on the earlier part of the process, from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage. The combination of these two supplements forms the foundation of our most potent flowering and fruiting formula, bringing you increased yields and bigger, brighter blooms. LIQUID KOOLBLOOM OR DRY KOOLBLOOM? Despite sharing a name, Liquid KoolBloom and Dry KoolBloom are very different products and cannot be used interchangeably. LIQUID KOOLBLOOM provides bulk during the flowering phase by providing elevated levels of Potassium and phosphorous, the building blocks of fruits and flowers. DRY KOOLBLOOM is a ripening formula with specific ratios of ingredients and is designed to be used only at the end of a plants life cycle to increase yield and density. available in: 2.2lb • 16lb 15 FLORANECTAR® UNIQUE SWEETENER Even when fruiting and flowering plants are productive, an extra pop of powerful sugars can intensify sweetness and aromas. FloraNectar gives you that burst, in a unique blend designed to take your plant to the next level. FloraNectar is formulated with essential minerals to deliver numerous benefits for both plants and soil. It offers an ideal food source for beneficial microorganisms, increasing their growth rate to boost soil respiration. The beneficial process of respiration releases carbon dioxide from the soil so that plants can use this naturally occurring chemical compound for growth. SIX FLAVORS, ONE PURPOSE FloraNectar comes in six flavor formulas: FruitnFusion, PineappleRush, BananaBliss, GrapeExpectations, SugarCane and BlueBerry Dream. These bring a higher degree of aroma to fruits and flowers. No matter which formula you choose, FloraNectar will help your plants regulate key metabolism processes. This allows plants to achieve a balance between respiration and photosynthesis, leading to more-abundant fruiting and flowering activity. 16 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon FLORASHIELD® PLANT-AND-SYSTEM RINSE To expand and thrive, plants need more than key nutrients and well-timed lighting — they also require environmental cleanliness. In a freshened setup, they can grow stronger roots, develop more-vigorous stems and foliage and maintain resistance against stresses. FloraShield’s distinctive formula can give you the clean start you need, whether you’re flushing equipment or removing residue from roots. The plant-and-system rinse is designed for multiple stages of growth and even can be used as a foliar spray. Cleaner leaves and stems allow plants to absorb essential elements more fully and transport those compounds down into the root system. RIGHT START In addition to acting as a rinse formula for hydroponic systems and mature plants, FloraShield is an ideal solution for giving new plants a strong start. Immersing seeds in FloraShield for several minutes will clean the seeds and make them ready for germination. With cuttings, FloraShield can be used for just 20 seconds to remove impurities that would otherwise hinder the root propagation process. No matter the growth stage, FloraShield can improve root cleanliness, resulting in more-nourished roots and better plant structure. Not to be used with SubCulture-M or SubCulture-B available in: 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 17 FLORAKLEEN® CLEAN AND CLEAR Over time, every hydroponic, soil-based or coco coir system can develop fertilizer residue as a natural part of the growing process. This accumulation can result in excess salts that will eventually cause your plants undue stress. Clear those concerns and get a cleaner system with FloraKleen. available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon 6 Gallon • 15 Gallon Specifically designed to dissolve fertilizer salts, our solution not only flushes excess residue, but also releases a nutrient bond between plants and the system. This connection helps plants make the most of remaining fertilizers, especially in the crucial week just before harvest. FRESH RESTART No matter what type of growing system you’re using — indoors or outdoors, soilless or hydroponic, pots or garden beds — fertilizer is often necessary to get your plants what they need for vigorous growth. But as plants take up those nutrients, the moisture left behind evaporates, leading to accumulated salts. While a low level of salt residue is natural, higher amounts can destroy root tissues. That can significantly limit a plant’s ability to take up nutrients and water, and negatively impact the growth process. FloraKleen’s formula was designed to work effectively in every type of system and during any growth stage, from starts to harvest. As a result, you can cross surplus fertilizer salts off your list of concerns. 18 15 SUBCULTURE®-M mycorrhizal root inoculant • Builds strong root systems • Greatly increases root mass to enhance growth and yield • Helps plants absorb nutrients and water more efficiently SubCulture-M is a Mycorrhizal Root Inoculant and contains a wide diversity of endo and ecto Mycorrhizal fungi that colonize plant roots. These beneficial fungi form a fine network of fibrous strands that serve as an extension of the plants root system; increasing root area and helping plants absorb water and nutrients. With SubCulture-M you can reduce the amount of fertilizer needed while achieving superior growth and huge yields. Use SubCulture-M from germination or propagation all the way through harvest. SUBCULTURE®-B available in: 75g • 150g• 300g • 600g BENEFITS OF BACTERIA Specifically formulated for growth systems using coco, soil, hydroponic or soilless media, SubCulture-B is a bacterial root inoculant that’s packed with beneficial microorganisms. The supplement works to increase vitality and yield in all plants. The bacteria in SubCulture-B are cultured in a highly salt-tolerant environment, so they work well with mineral-based nutrients (a vital part of coco systems in particular). The strains maintain symbiotic relationships with plants and strengthen the soil-food web that gives plants their solid foundation. In addition, these bacteria allow plants to ingest nitrogen, carbon compounds and sulfur and turn those essential components into key compounds for growth. STEADIER GROWTH Beneficial bacteria help recycle nutrients back to the plants. Without these nutrients, plants would have a much harder time trying to access certain minerals and compounds. SubCulture-B has the ability to sequester and absorb these elements so plants can use them more easily. This results in a steadier rate of growth as well as more-buffered pH levels in the soil. available in: 75g • 150g• 300g • 600g 16 Our cutting-edge root inoculant can be dusted on roots during transplants to increase plant immunity, reduce the stress of transition and strengthen root growth for more-predictable growing. 19 provides gardeners with a superior line of plant foods and supplements. Each product in the GO line enables you to enrich your garden, your life and the planet. Our commitment is to provide simple and innovative products of unsurpassed quality. General Organics is passionate about plants. That’s why we develop and manufacture products that focus on giving plants what they need, when they need it. From enhancing soil viability to providing beneficial nutrients, our blends deliver the types of ingredients you need for a flourishing, thriving garden. We know that soil quality, root development, plant nutrition, foliage strength, water conservation and bloom quantity matter to you — and that’s why they matter to us. General Organics products help your plants at any stage of growth, no matter what growing medium you choose. Pure nutrients formulated from botanical extracts and natural minerals General Organics products are formulated with botanical extracts and natural minerals for performance and purity. General Organics’ line of superior fertilizers and supplements are formulated to enhance the biology in the root zone, and are suitable for all kinds of soil and media. Your plants will fulfill their genetic potential with rapid growth, high yields and outstanding fragrance. Clean and pure. Vermicro Organicsp ® on page s 20 72-73 GO BOX GENERAL ORGANICS FERTILIZER AND SUPPLEMENTS STARTER KIT Try the GO line in one convenient box that’s ready to use in your garden. Included are 16oz sizes of BioThrive Grow and BioThrive Bloom and 8oz sizes of CaMg+, BioRoot, BioWeed, BioBud, BioMarine and Diamond Black 21 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon BIOTHRIVE® PLANT FOOD Specially formulated to meet the comprehensive needs of plants through every stage of growth, BioThrive is an entirely vegan plant food that contains natural plant extracts, seaweed and mined minerals. By feeding the microbes that live in harmony with your plant, this unique plant food actively improves the environment for your roots, giving them a robust start and a strong growing season. BioThrive provides nutrition for vigorous vegetative, flowering and fruiting growth, and is ideal for every type of plant in soil/soilless mixes and coco blends. You can apply BioThrive along with other products in the General Organics line. BIOTHRIVE® GROW BIOTHRIVE® BLOOM Maximize vegetative growth with BioThrive Grow, formulated to supply plants with a custom diet that stimulates vigorous root and foliage development. Proper nutrition creates a strong foundation for later flower, fruit and seed production. Use BioThrive Grow to give all types of plants a strong start. BioThrive Bloom provides flowering and fruiting plants with essential nutrients they need during the later phases of growth. Specially designed to maximize flower, fruit and seed production, this unique formulation will give you bigger and more-fragrant yields. BioThrive Bloom benefits all kinds of plants during the flowering and fruiting phases of growth. PLANT FOOD FOR GROWTH BioThrive Feedchart on pages 66 22 PLANT FOOD FOR BLOOM available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon CaMg+® CALCIUM-MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENT CaMg+ provides calcium and magnesium, which are critical elements in any plant’s growth cycle and necessary for maximum health. By increasing calcium and magnesium transport into the plants, CaMg+ optimizes plant metabolism, enhances growth and creates vibrant flowers and fruits. The BioThrive vegan plant-food formulas, BioThrive Grow and BioThrive Bloom, supplemented with CaMg+, form the foundation of the General Organics line. With this solid foundation, and the rest of the General Organics additives, you have the building blocks for a successful garden. In situations with coco coir, reverse-osmosis water or soilless media that contain no calcium, use CaMg+ in addition to BioThrive to get all of the nutrients required for vigorous plant growth. 23 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon BIOROOT® ROOT BOOSTER BioRoot is a root growth supplement that helps plants establish vibrant and vigorous root systems. With its unique blend of plant-derived nutrients, sea kelp and mined minerals, BioRoot is outstanding for seedlings and cuttings, helping young plants develop strong and massive root systems. Use BioRoot with any garden soil, potting mix or other growing media. 24 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon • 2.5 Gallon BIOBUD® BLOOM BOOSTER BioBud enhances the natural bloom process, resulting in a more bountiful harvest with superior aroma. This encourages abundant, dense floral clusters during the crucial flowering and fruiting phases. The results are spectacular flowering and more-abundant fruits. Use BioBud during the flowering phase of plant growth with any base fertilizer in any garden soil, potting mix or other growing media. 25 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon BIOWEED® SEAWEED-BASED SUPPLEMENT Derived from a blend of cold-processed seaweeds that enhance the vitality of plants and soil, BioWeed encourages prolific root and foliage growth as well as larger flowers and fruits. The supplement works synergistically with all fertilizers to promote vigorous growth, and can be used for all plants in prepared soil/soilless mixes and coco blends. 26 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon BIOMARINE® SQUID-BASED SUPPLEMENT Huge populations of squid are out of balance with fish populations in the ocean, but do offer major benefits when it comes to plants. They offer high protein plus polysaccharide content, which combine to stimulate root growth. Because of these environmental and garden benefits, we chose squid for BioMarine, a supplement for all types of plants during all phases of growth, from seedling through harvest. Use it as a stand-alone fertilizer for plants growing in rich organic soils, or as a nutrient supplement in addition to other products in the General Organics line for more complete or specialized plant nutrition. 27 available in: 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon DIAMOND BLACK® LIQUID HUMIC ACIDS Diamond Black is derived from mined Leonardite, a naturally occurring form of carbon drawn from prehistoric peat bogs. Diamond Black contains an exceptionally high percentage of plant-active humates. These organic compounds improve nutrient absorption, promote soil structure, increase nutrient retention and reduce water usage. Use it with all types of plants, during all phases of growth. Additionally, Diamond Black can be used as an additive for making compost or compost tea. Use Diamond Black with any garden soil, potting mix or other soil-based media. 28 available in: ½ Cubic ft bags ANCIENT FOREST® 100% ORGANIC ALASKA HUMUS Ancient Forest is composed of 100% pure forest humus, with no fillers or additives, and produced through a natural composting process. Since the last ice age, forests have been growing and decomposing in the Arctic, leaving behind accumulations of rich, natural humus. With Ancient Forest, your plants receive the full spectrum of natural materials that have accumulated over thousands of years of growth and natural composting. bulk sizes on page 70 29 SUPPORT Creating and maintaining the ideal environment for your plants is an important part of any garden. General Hydroponics can help with support products designed to defeat pests, adjust and maintain your pH and more. 30 28 WON’T HARM BENEFICALS available in: 4oz • 1 Pint • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon 2.5 Gallon • 6 Gallon AZAMAX® BOTANICAL INSECTICIDE, MITICIDE AND NEMATICIDE Every plant grower and gardener dreads dealing with pests, but AzaMax makes the process effective, beneficial and, most important, safe. A broad-spectrum pest-control solution, AzaMax is developed through a patented extraction technique that uses Neem, a tropical evergreen known for its pest-control properties. Listed and licensed by OMRI in all 50 states, AzaMax effectively controls spider mites, thrips, fungus gnats, aphids, whiteflies, leaf miners, worms, beetles, leafhoppers, scales, mealy bugs, nematodes and other soil-dwelling pests. With no harmful chemical solvents, AzaMax can be applied throughout the growing cycle — and even up to the day of harvest — without concern about residue on vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. (Sorry, Not available in Canada.) 31 available in: 8oz • 1 Quart • 1 Gallon pH UP & DOWN PH-ADJUSTING SOLUTIONS Because our formulas are pH-buffered, users of General Hydroponics nutrient products generally do not experience problems maintaining the proper pH range. However, poor-quality water or pH-unstable media like rockwool can cause pH to acidify to an unacceptable level. High growth rates can also destabilize pH. The ideal pH for most crops falls between 5.5 and 6.5 — if you’re experiencing higher or lower numbers, one of our adjusting solutions can get you back into a more appropriate range. 32 pH UP Base-formulated, using potassium hydroxide and potassium carbonate. If your nutrient pH is too low, add a little at a time to raise the pH to the proper level. pH DOWN Acid-formulated, using food-grade phosphoric acid. If your nutrient pH is too high, add a little at a time to lower the pH to the proper level. available in: 8oz • 1 Quart available in: 1oz • 8oz STANDARD REFERENCE SOLUTIONS ELECTRONIC METER CALIBRATION SOLUTIONS Growers can use our reference solutions for all the popular brands of meters using the NaCl scale. General Hydroponics technicians verify that our solutions are exactly calibrated for consistency and dependability, ensuring the highest quality available. pH TEST INDICATOR SOLUTION PH TESTER General Hydroponics pH test kits make pH testing easy. Simply fill a test tube halfway with nutrient, add a few drops of pH Test Indicator and observe the color of the liquid in the tube. Many growers prefer our pH test kit to expensive electronic meters because of its reliability and ease of use. 33 SYSTEMS Hydroponic and aeroponic systems inspire enthusiasm for a reason. They’re exciting growing methods that open up your possibilities for a greater breadth of plants and longer growing seasons. General Hydroponics is here to fuel your passion with a wide variety of unique and effective systems that appeal to everyone from novice gardeners to seasoned growers. Using high-quality parts, patented technology and innovative designs, our systems are designed for accelerated growth and increased yields — while maximizing your resources. 34 WATERFARM® DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM Our best-selling hydroponic module, the WaterFarm offers a unique square design that allows you to put modules together to create high-density installations. With a long service life and functionality that lets you grow small, medium and large plants, the WaterFarm boasts all the features of a larger system at a lower cost — all without sacrificing quality or performance. The WaterFarm comes in two models, Complete and Modular. Designed to be a stand-alone system, the Complete WaterFarm includes: 2-gallon growing chamber, 4-gallon reservoir, drain level tube, Grow Force air pump, growing medium and Flora Series nutrients. The Modular WaterFarm is designed for multiple-unit configuration with a General Hydroponics controller, and includes the reservoir, grow chamber and farm kit. dimensions: 1’L x 1’W x 18”H WATERFARM® 8-PACK DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM The WaterFarm 8-Pack consists of eight WaterFarm module units connected to one General Hydroponics controller that offers an integrated 13-gallon reservoir with an 8-gallon controller unit. The controller keeps each unit topped off with the correct level of nutrient, minimizing maintenance needs. The WaterFarm 8-Pack is powered by GH’s Dual Diaphragm air pump and includes all necessary hardware and Flora Series nutrients. The grower can arrange the WaterFarm units in a design that is suitable for any environment. Pack them tight or space them out, based on your growing situation. The WaterFarm 8-Pack is the ideal system for big growers. Growing medium is not included. dimensions: 96”L x 36”W x 32”H 35 POWERGROWER® DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM POWERGROWER® 8-PACK DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM The PowerGrower 8-pack is eight PowerGrower modules connected to one GH PowerGrower Controller. The controller is an integrated 17 gallon reservoir with a 17 gallon controller unit. The controller will maintain the nutrient levels in each module while the reservoir actively recirculates the nutrient to keep pH and PPM levels consistent. This ensures optimized plant growth and provides the grower with a lower maintenance garden. The newly engineered plumbing design ensures uniform delivery of nutrients to each individual chamber. The kit is powered by GH’s Dual Diaphragm Air Pump and includes necessary hardware and Flora Series nutrients. The PowerGrower units can be arranged in a design that is suitable for your growing situation. Media not included. 36 standard configuration dimensions: 108”L x 42”W x 33”H honeycomb configuration dimensions: 72”L x 42”W x 33”H The unique hexagonal shape of the PowerGrower enables growers to place units close together when plants are small, then separate them as the plants grow larger. The PowerGrower comes in two forms, Complete and Modular. The Complete PowerGrower is designed to be a stand-alone system and comes with a 2-gallon growing chamber, 4-gallon reservoir, Grow Force air pump, growing medium, farm kit and Flora Series nutrients. The Modular PowerGrower is designed for multiple-unit configuration with a GH controller. Both PowerGrower models can be staked with PVC piping to support larger plants. dimensions: 25½”L x 25½”W x 19½”H RF66 RF236 RF318 RAINFOREST® 66/236/318 MODULAR AEROPONIC CLONING /GROWING SYSTEM No hydroponic system exists that will match the performance of the RainForest. It’s perfect for propagating cuttings or for quick starting seeds, seedlings, or transplants. The Vortex Sprayer lifts and oxygenates nutrient solution then gently distributes it over cutting base or root system, giving you the most oxygen in the root zone possible. This system is ideal for starting plants or even for growing plants to maturity and harvest. Many growers choose to start their plants in RainForest modules and later transplant them into larger systems like our WaterFarm. Several RainForest modules can be connected to a Texas Controller for larger installations dimensions: 221/8”L x 221/8”W 20½”H 17 Gallon reservoir 6in 3in 2in 37 AF20 AF18 AF60 AF30 AF60 with extension AF36 AEROFLO® AEROPONIC SYSTEMS The AeroFlo superoxygenates a nutrient solution, resulting in a more optimal delivery of oxygen, water and nutrients to your plant’s roots. Creating stronger, more-resilient plants for increased yields, this system is perfect for flowers, fruits and vegetables up to three or four feet tall. Bring your plants to harvest earlier and maximize the productivity of your grow space with the AeroFlo. With four different models to choose from, there is an AeroFlo unit for every need. 38 AEROFLO® 18 18 Site Aeroponic System dimensions: 5’4”L x 23”W x 22”H AEROFLO® 20 20 Site Aeroponic System dimensions: 7’L x 1’6”W x 2’H AEROFLO® 30 30 Site Aeroponic System dimensions: 7’ 6”L x 23”W x 22”H AEROFLO® 36 36 Site Aeroponic System dimensions: 4’ 2”L x 4’7”W x 2’H AEROFLO® 60 60 Site Aeroponic System dimensions: standard configuration 5’ 1”L x 6’10”W x 2’H staggered configuration 5’ 1”L x 11’7”W x 2’H with Extension Unit 9’7”L x 6’10”W x 2’H EUROGROWER® DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM For those who are new to hydroponic gardening, the EuroGrower offers a simple yet elegant approach that makes home hydroponics easy. At the heart of the EuroGrower is our unique 40-gallon Panda reservoir, which is more than adequate for its eight 2-gallon buckets. Whether using a soil or soilless medium, growers can use the EuroGrower virtually anywhere, and the system comes complete with growing medium and Flora Series nutrients. dimensions: 48”L x 24”W x 24”H MEGAFARM® DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM Our largest drip-hydroponic module, the MegaFarm has a unique 20-gallon growing chamber on top of a 20-gallon reservoir. A dual-drip ring allows for unlimited planting options, from small plants to tree varieties. With its large water capacity and low water requirements, the MegaFarm is simple and efficient. Growing medium is included. dimensions: 22”L x 22”W x 22”H 39 ECOGROWER® PANDA RESERVOIR The EcoGrower incorporates an air-driven “spider” drip system and uses our revolutionary 17-gallon hexagonal reservoir with removable 6” lid inserts. Each lid insert accommodates one 6” net pot that can house mediumto-large plants. Growing medium is included. The 40-gallon Panda reservoir has a white exterior to reflect light and heat, and a black interior to discourage algae growth. The sleek design allows it to be placed into tighter spots, so you can optimize garden space. The convenient access hatch makes nutrient changes a breeze. Float valves and drain kits are also available to make your growing system simpler and more efficient. DRIP HYDROPONIC SYSTEM dimensions: 2’L x 2’W x 2’H SNAPTURE® MODULAR SUPPORT SYSTEM Specially designed for strength, the Snapture is true to its name — it’s a snap to assemble, with no tools required. The custom Snapture pieces turn standard 1¼” PVC pipe into tray or system stands, trellis supports, light hangers, grow-tent frames and more. 40 PREMIUM-GRADE NUTRIENT-SOLUTION RESERVOIR dimensions: 48”L x 24”W x 13”H CONTROLLERS Simple, reliable and inexpensive, General Hydroponics controllers have two connected reservoirs that help ensure an ideal nutrient level in hydroponic systems. The lower-level controller reservoir has a float valve connected to a line of growing units. The upper-level master reservoir holds additional nutrient solution. As plants draw water from their individual reservoirs, the drop in liquid level causes the float valve in the controller to open and draw fresh nutrient solution from the master reservoir. This automatically maintains the ideal level of nutrient solution in all the connected units. CONTROLLER TEXAS CONTROLLER Controller includes: • 13-gallon reservoir with grommet • fittings • blue ½” tubing • 8-gallon controller • float valve • seven ½” barbed tees • two ½” elbows Texas Controller includes: • 20-gallon reservoir with grommet • fittings • blue ½” tubing • 20-gallon controller • float valve • 15 ½” barbed tees • two ½” elbows dimensions: 12”L x 12”W x 3’6”H dimensions: 2’L x 2’W x 3’6”H 41 VORTEX SPRAYER NUTRIENT-SOLUTION OXYGENATOR The Vortex Sprayer creates a powerful eddy that lifts and oxygenates nutrients from the reservoir, evenly distributing them to plant cuttings and root systems. This powerful delivery system enables faster and more consistent propagation, quicker growth rates and higher crop yields. Available in AC, or DC for solar-powered applications, the Vortex Sprayer is used in our RainForest 66, 236 and 318. Type – Hi Speed Vertical Vortex Misting Pump Power Source –Transformer- 120VAC 50/60H ->12VDC Watts – 12W Max Head – 6” DUAL DIAPHRAGM AIR PUMP The only air pump in the world manufactured exclusively for use with hydroponic systems, the Dual Diaphragm is a high-output pump (320 gph, or 20 l/ min) with four adjustable ¼” output valves. These can be split to power up to 16 WaterFarm units, giving you greater flexibility in oxygenating your system. AC 120V, 0.2 amps 320 gph (20 l/min) 4 2 40 TNC WATER PUMP Powerful and dependable, the TNC centrifugal inline water pump moves 1,268 gph through 1” pipe thread fittings, and has a reliable ceramic/ graphite seal. The pump is used in our AeroFlo 60 units. Type – Impeller, air-cooled / ceramic seal Power source – 120VAC/60Hz Watts – 167 Amps – 1.5 Max liters per minute – 80 @ zero head Nominal liters per minute – 70 Max head – 5.4 meters GrowFORCE-1 AIR PUMP This single-outlet air pump will reliably deliver a strong yet quiet air supply. The pump is used in our WaterFarm, PowerGrower and EuroGrower. Type – Air-cooled, adjustable Power source – 120VAC/60Hz Watts – 3 PSI – 2.2 max Max liters per minute –1.5 MAG DRIVE #2/#3/#7 WATER PUMPS Mag Drive pumps are heavy-duty, magnetically driven centrifugal pumps perfect for hydroponics. These workhorse pumps have been providing reliable performance to growers for many years. MAG DRIVE #2 Type – Liquid-cooled submersible Power source – 120VAC/60Hz Watts – 21 Amps – <.5 Max gph – 360 @ zero head Nominal gph – 200 @ 3’ head Max head – 5’ MAG DRIVE #3 Type – Liquid-cooled submersible Power source – 120VAC/60Hz Watts – 37 Amps – <.5 Max gph – 480 @ zero head Nominal gph – 335 @ 3’ head Max head – 7’ MAG DRIVE #7 Type – Liquid-cooled submersible Power source – 120VAC/60Hz Watts – 60 Amps – <1 Max gph – 640 @ zero head Nominal gph – 425 @ 3” head Max head – 10’ 43 MEDIA You need a strong foundation for every stage of plant growth, which is why a good growing medium is essential. General Hydroponics Rapid Rooters are designed to give your seedlings and cuttings the start they need for strength and longevity. The General Hydroponics CocoTek product line provides a sustainable media solution that’s quick and easy to use. Vermicro Organicsp ® on page s 72-73 44 COCOTEK® PREMIUM COIR Available in loose-fill bags and OMRI-certified bales, CocoTek Premium Coir is naturally free of bacteria, fungal spores, weeds, seeds and pathogens. CocoTek growing media can be used alone or blended together. They can also be mixed with expanded clay pebbles, perlite, topsoil or any other growing media. bulk sizes on page 70 COCOTEK® PREMIUM COIR AND COCOTEK PX ® CocoTek Premium Coir and CocoTek PX are buffered, easy to hydrate and ready to use out of the bag. available in: 1½-cubic-foot bags COCOTEK® PREMIUM COIR contains pretreated coco coir and can be used by itself or blended with other media to create your ideal mix COCOTEK® PX is premixed with just the right amount of pretreated coir and perlite, providing aeration and optimum moisture retention. It’s ready to use right out of the bag — simply fill your container, plant, feed and get growing! COCOTEK® 5KG COMPRESSED BALE ORGANIC COMPRESSED MEDIA These convenient, OMRI-certified, 5kg blocks are easy to use and transport. When hydrated with water, they rapidly expand, saving you time and effort. 45 COCOTEK® 8” BASKETS THIN WALLED COIR LINER CocoTek 8” baskets can be used as stand-alone containers and work great in flood and drain systems. available in: 8” COCOTEK® MATS MEDIA FOUNDATION Made from coconut fibers and bound by latex, CocoTek mats are designed to lie underneath media containers and can be easily cut to any size. In ebb/flow tables, plant roots will grow through and under the mats, where moisture remains between flood cycles. available in: Roll: 8’L x 4’W x 1/4”H Mat: 4’L x 4’W x 1”H 46 RAPIDROOTER® ROOTING STARTERS RapidRooter’s breakthrough technology produces a unique matrix of composted materials bonded together with polymers. With RapidRooter, you have the optimal air-to-water ratio within the plug matrix, which results in explosive early root growth. available in: 36, 50 and 98 plug trays and Bags of 50 plugs 47 RESOURCES From the beginner to the expert gardener, we can always learn more. The following pages offer a few of our best tricks and recommendations to help you get the most from our products. Feed charts, growing info, tips, tricks, and more… Never stop growing. 48 THE ESSENTIALS OF SUCCESSFUL GARDENING Genes The genetics of your plants will play a major role in the outcome of your garden. As the plant goes through its life cycle, it sometimes can be difficult to assess whether the plant is responding to its environment or following the instructions written in its DNA. With the rise of GMO crops, the choice of which varieties to grow can become a charged issue. Engineered species may be more hardy and pest-resistant, but might also be flavorless, or have an unexpected interaction with the environment. Whether you choose a resilient modern variety or an heirloom with character, remember that DNA will always be working behind the scenes. Light The amount and quality of sunlight that your plants receive will also affect their growth. Seasonal variances, exposure and shadows from buildings and trees must be taken into account when setting up a garden. If artificial light is to be used, it must be of a robust spectrum and sufficient intensity to satisfy the needs of the plants without overwhelming them or drying them out. Different plants and different phases of growth require different light spectra and intensity. Light supplies the energy used in photosynthesis, which is one of the most fundamental plant processes. Atmosphere The atmosphere dramatically affects the growth and life of plants. Plants require lots of fresh air, so growers who are using greenhouses and indoor facilities must supplement their airflow with fans. The temperature and relative humidity have a major effect on plant physiology and growth. Both photosynthesis and transpiration are dependent upon proper humidity, temperature and air circulation. Plants can survive in a wide variety of atmospheric conditions, but to truly thrive they must have plentiful fresh air and proper temperature and humidity. The ideal temperature and humidity for your plants is between 65˚F and 90˚F (18˚C–32˚C) and 40% to 80% relative humidity. 49 Nutrition Plants need nutrients to grow. General Hydroponics has several nutrients that provide all of the elements required by plants. These fertilizers contain an idealized blend of macroand micronutrients, and can be adjusted to suit the needs of the plant based on its age and growth stage. To boost plant performance, successful gardeners add supplements to the nutrient solution. These additives can improve plant vitality, enhance flavors and increase yields. Pests Unfortunately for gardeners, there is a host of organisms that survive by destroying plants. These range from microscopic bacteria, viruses and fungi to larger organisms, such as insects and arachnids. Cleanliness can help prevent pests from arriving. If you keep garden tools and surfaces sterilized, destructive microorganisms will have a harder time gaining a foothold. Moist, warm and damp conditions are favorable to developing mold and mildew, so avoiding condensation and insuring sufficient air circulation will help keep these undesirables away. Larger pests require a more aggressive approach. There are many products available which assist in the eradication of these invaders, but cleanliness is a good start in managing pathogens and pests. Since these nutrients and supplements are absorbed through the roots of the plant, optimum nutrition requires strong and healthy roots. Proper nutrition is a major component to thriving plants. Water 50 The quality of the water that plants receive will affect their health and vitality. Municipal water can contain harmful additives, such as chlorine, and even natural well water can contain an excess of minerals or have an extreme pH. A surplus of many common elements in water can cause a chain reaction in a nutrient solution, resulting in many of the vital elements fusing together and becoming unavailable to the plant. Testing your water will indicate whether your water is a problem. If your problem is excessive minerals, using Flora Series and FloraMicro Hardwater might be sufficient. Truly problematic water must be filtered or pH adjusted before being used for plants. ADVANCED GROWING TECHNIQUES Nutrient Strength and Meters Nutrient strength is a key factor in proper plant nutrition. Although the recipes General Hydroponics provides you should create nutrient solution at the proper strength, there are many environmental factors that can cause nutrient strength to change. A nutrient strength meter is an essential tool for the advanced grower. There are two types of meters that measure nutrient strength: parts-per-million (ppm) meters and electrical conductivity (EC) meters. Both types make the same measurement, but then present the result in different units. Nutrient strength is measured by passing an electric current through the solution: The more easily the electricity travels, the stronger the solution. An electrical conductivity meter gives this result as an electrical value, such as a millisiemen (mS). This number is directly related to the strength of the nutrient. A ppm meter measures the conductivity of the solution, and then attempts to estimate the actual parts per million. The problem with this method is that different meters may use different scales to convert conductivity measurements to ppm readings, so two different ppm meters could read drastically different values in the exact same nutrient solution. A ppm meter is still a useful tool to a gardener, but it is important to know that different meters use different scales, and that 500 ppm does not always mean 500 ppm. Knowing which scale your meter uses will help you avoid underfeeding or overfeeding. If you get advice about ppm values, be aware that it might not translate directly to your garden. Using an EC meter will eliminate ppm confusion; however, if used properly any meter will allow the gardener to track changes in nutrient strength and make decisions and adjustments that will contribute to success. Heat and Nutrient Arid, bright, hot environments can have an impact on nutrient solution. As the solution loses water through evaporation and plant transpiration, nutrient strength increases. When growing conditions are more intense, using a less concentrated nutrient solution and monitoring nutrient strength with a meter can help prevent overfeeding. As nutrient solution becomes warmer in hot weather, it loses its ability to hold dissolved oxygen, which is essential for root health. When hot weather strikes, monitor the solution temperature and keep it below 75˚F. Meters for measuring nutrient strength are available as either penstyle or continuous meters in both EC and ppm formats. Calibrate meter to a standard-reference conductivity solution weekly or as needed. If you are unsure which scale your ppm meter uses, measuring a standard-reference solution can help you to identify the scale. 1500 2190 2.9 mS = PPM = PPM NaCl 442 EC 497 = PPM NaOH 51 Specific Nutrient Deficiencies Hydroponic nutrients contain all elements needed by plants. Under normal circumstances, all elements should be available and nutrient deficiencies will not occur. A pH imbalance can cause nutrient deficiencies by creating mineral interactions. Hard water or ingredients that have been incorrectly mixed directly together will also contribute to pH problems. If you observe signs of a specific nutrient deficiency while using high-quality nutrients, examine environmental factors first. pH and Nutrient Availability The pH of a nutrient solution describes its acidity or alkalinity. Although extremes of pH can damage roots, the primary reason that pH is relevant to growers is that it affects whether certain elements in the solution are available to the plant or not. Specific nutrient deficiencies can arise in a well-balanced nutrient solution if that solution exceeds the optimum pH range. Therefore, you should monitor and adjust pH as needed to ensure complete nutrient availability. Many factors work to change the pH of your nutrient, including microbial activity, atmospheric interactions and recirculation. For best results check pH regularly to ensure that it does not exceed the acceptable range. Keep nutrient pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A pH test kit is the most economical method for measuring nutrient pH. Electronic pH meters are the quickest and easiest way to monitor your nutrient pH. Calibrate meter to pH 7.0 calibration solution weekly or as needed. Add pH test solution to nutrient sample and match color on bottle to measure pH. 52 For increased accuracy, calibrate meter to pH 4.01 calibration solution. Use General Hydroponics pH adjusters to raise or lower pH as needed. Adjusters are available in liquid and dry formulations. Add adjusters gradually to avoid overshooting. WHY USE HYDROPONIC NUTRIENTS? Providing superior results in both soil and hydroponic gardens, hydroponic nutrients are mineral-based plant food that provides complete and total plant nutrition. Because hydroponic systems do not use soil, they rely on the nutrient solution to provide all the elements needed by the plants. As a result, hydroponic fertilizers, unlike most commonly available plant food, must contain the entire spectrum of necessary elements, making them a robust and complete nutrient source suitable for all gardens. Typical Fertilizer (Unsuitable for Hydroponics) This fertilizer must be combined with other fertilizers and soils to provide complete nutrition. Hydroponic Nutrient: Full-Spectrum Plant Nutrition In a hydroponic system or a soil garden, this fertilizer will ensure that everything the plant needs will be right at its root tips. The nutritional needs of your plants will change throughout their lifetime: For instance, a seedling needs a completely different nutrient than a flowering or fruiting plant does. Due to their precise composition and modular components, hydroponic nutrients can be easily tuned to match the needs of a plant at any stage of growth. In addition to supplying complete nutrition, hydroponic nutrients are also easily customizable and adjustable to match the changing needs of your plants. Hydroponic nutrients provide the ultimate in comprehensive and customizable plant nutrition. 53 UNDERSTANDING FEED CHARTS To get the most from your garden, you can combine a comprehensive blend of base nutrients and supplements to provide plants exactly what they need, when they need it. The ideal amount of each supplement and nutrient required for successful growth can change when multiple products are used together. Our feed charts balance all of the ingredients together for efficiency and accuracy. The following feed 54 charts are a baseline and recommendation. They are not the only way to use the product, but they represent a good medium that will work for most growers in many environments and with most plants. Your plants and environment are unique, and the best way to get the most out of your feeding is to find what works best for you. General Feed Chart Tips: • General Hydroponics always uses the .500 scale for ppm measurements. • We exclusively use Reverse Osmosis water when making and testing our nutrients, all measurements assume your water is at an EC of 0. • Keep nutrient solution temperature below 75˚ F (24˚ C). • For best results maintain nutrient solution pH between 5.5 - 6.5. • Keep nutrient solution aerated. • For specific growth stages, Floralicious Grow or Bloom may be used in place of Floralicious Plus Recirculating Nutrient Solution Tips: • Change nutrient solution every 7-10 days and top off with fresh water between nutrient changes. • Because media in recirculating systems does not typically ‘hold’ nutrient, a higher ppm is desired. • Top off your reservoir with pure water between feedings, apply fresh nutrients to a fresh reservoir. General Organics Nutrient Solution Tips: • Use de-chlorinated water for best results. • Adjusting pH is not necessary except in extreme circumstances • Double BioThrive application rates for heavy feeding plants. • Apply nutrient solution within 1 hour of mixing or aerate solution until application. • BioMarine and Diamond Black are optional but highly recommended. Troubleshooting Factors to Consider: • Arid, bright, hot environments cause plants to drink more than if they are grown where it’s humid, dim, and cool. Thus gardeners should use less concentrated nutrient solutions when growing conditions are more intense in order to lessen the risk of overfeeding. • The pH (acidity or alkalinity) of a nutrient solution affects the availability of the elements contained within. Use GH pH adjusters to maintain nutrient pH between 5.5 - 6.5. Drain to Waste Nutrient Solution Tips: • Allow 5% - 25% runoff during each irrigation. • Consider fresh water irrigation after 1 - 3 nutrient applications. • To flush apply fresh water irrigation after three nutrient applications to flush excess mineral accumulation. 55 56 Create your own chart! 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 Track your grow: 67 OUR STORY Over 40 years ago, an inspired group of scientists, engineers and technicians came together with an ambitious goal: to advance agricultural quality and innovation through the use of key manufacturing processes and cutting-edge research. In launching General Hydroponics, that team created a foundation that’s allowed us to expand in meaningful and industry-changing directions. We now have state-of-the-art facilities in North America and Europe where researchers develop products, solutions and systems that help you care for your plants in a way that delivers the best possible results. They succeeded. Our facility in Sebastopol, Calif., covers 10 acres and provides an ideal environment for testing new crops, hydroponic systems, nutrients, additives and related technologies. Our Santa Rosa, Calif., But it was only the beginning. 68 factory features large on-site greenhouses that use alternative energy sources and green technologies to save water and power. A specialized farm division has tested over 100 plant varieties for yield, flavor, nutrition, appearance, disease resistance, growth rate and suitability for hydroponic systems. While improving our customers’ growing practices, we’re also dedicated to creating a cleaner and more environmentally efficient world. That’s why we offer advanced systems powered by solar energy, as well as filtration products 52 that make the most of organic components and nutrient formulations. With industry-leading manufacturing and research, we continually develop products that enhance your results while being kind to the environment. We honor the vision of our founders by always thinking about what’s next. With consistent quality, value and results, General Hydroponics remains committed to leading the industry, offering the most innovative products available and serving growers like you around the world. 69 BULK SIZES Liquid Nutrients & Supplements: 15 gallon • 55 gallon • 275 gallon tote Dry Nutrients & Supplements: 50 lb • 500 lb super sack Dry Mediums & Amendments: 500 lb super sack • bulk amounts Quality and Consistency – It starts with our vendors. The raw materials they provide us are vigorously tested before even entering our production facilities. Each and every production batch goes through rigorous quality assurance protocols to ensure growers consistently receive products of the highest quality. Our Formulas – Our research teams contemporary and leading edge formulations embrace the creativity and innovation which is needed to succeed in today’s commercial environments. Our formulations are the result of years of development, practical testing and application. 0 768 Our Team - General Hydroponics consists of a large group of dedicated and experienced professionals. Our team combines innovative thinking individuals with cross-disciplined experts who are key to our “shared success” objective. Product Support We offer informed and unsurpassed technical support for all of our products. We have the ability to do so regardless of your location. Our support is based on science, our shared experiences with our customers, our technical expertise and on our own successes as growers. Thank you for choosing General Hydroponics and Vermicrop Organics® 71 69 In 2005 Vermicrop Organics was founded in Grass Valley, California by a small team of forward thinking gardeners. From years of growing in the Sierra foothills we’ve gained an appreciation for not only the fruits of our labor but the incredible environment from which they blossom. The focus of our product development is improving the horticultural industry with superior inoculants and growing mediums inspired by nature. 72 73 bringing nature and technology together ©2016 GH