grodan tips & tricks · grodan tips & tricks expect more. demand grodan. expect more....

Grodan TIPS & TrICKS

Expect More. Demand Grodan.

EXPECT MorE. dEMand Grodan. WWW.Grodan101.CoM


TaBLE oF ConTEnTS

QUALITY AND SUPPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

PRODUcTS exPLAINeD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

gROw YOUR bUSINeSS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

fRee & heLPfUL STUff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13



a recipe for SuccessProviding top quality products paired with exceptional support have attributed to Grodan’s long standing success with commercial growers and hobbyists alike. But there’s so much more.

AN INNOVATIVE AND PROGRESSIVE TEAM

Intelligent and innovative employees appreciate working for a company with an eco-friendly corporate philosophy and this symbiotic relationship has helped to make Grodan’s name synonymous with excellence.

Grodan is the first substrate producer to receive the prestigious European Ecolabel. This is a more stringent environmental certification than the North American OMRI because the Ecolabel evaluates the entire product lifespan (cradle to grave) - not just the final product. It also reviews how Grodan teaches the user to properly dispose of the product in an environmentally sound manner. Read more about it at www.eco-label.

PRODUCT QUALITY

For over forty years, Grodan has been a role model company in the cultivation of safe, healthy and high quality vegetables and plants. Grodan is the trusted name in the commercial soil-less industry.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Grodan’s rockwool to be safe and the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is available on the Grodan Website for closer scrutiny for the inquisitive mind.

DEDICATED TO SUPPORTING CLIENTS

• Grodan provides a direct channel through the Grodan Website for anyone to ask a question and receive an answer from a Grodan professional within 24 hours - and in most cases, the same day.

• For those who learn better by watching, Grodan created a series of step-by-step videos (Gro-SMART series) showing how easy it is to use the Grodan product successfully.

• Brochures on various topics are free and available to be downloaded from the Website.

• Scheduled store visits by Grodan product specialists who take the time to educate store staff and evaluate consumer needs.

• Integrity in marketing and advertising is the Grodan policy. Grodan does not make claims about their product that cannot be proven by an outside (independent) source.

TOP TEN REASONS PEOPLE PREFER TO USE GRODAN

1. It is a clean, lightweight alternative to potting mixes.

2. Since the plant can live its entire life cycle in Grodan stonewool, no re-potting is necessary since even root-bound plants get enough oxygen.

3. In re-circulating systems, water and fertilizer usage and runoff can be significantly reduced, thereby minimizing environmental footprint.

4. Grodan stonewool is a less hospitable environment for insects compared to other mediums like soil.

5. You can grow more in less space. Rooftop and patio gardeners can grow a considerable number of plants in limited space using soil-less methods.

6. It is an economical way to always have fresh herbs and healthy greens at hand.

7. The uniformity and consistency throughout the Grodan product line is unparalleled in the industry and ensures more feeder root growth which maximizes nutrient uptake.

8. Grodan leads by example regarding recycling, with procedures in place to recycle at the factory level and also provide recycling tips for the hobbyists as well.

PRODUcT QUALITY AND SUPPORT

1

9. Never have to worry about receiving a product that might contain pathogens, weeds, larvae or insects.

10. For peace of mind in knowing the food they eat was is grown naturally, without additives or pesticides.

Store owners have direct access to Grodan’s technical support by phone or email by calling (888) 444-2476. Alternatively, anyone can send their questions or concerns via [email protected].


Gro-right with Grodan

PRODUcTS exPLAINeDLO

OSE

MED

IAST

ART

ERS

GRO

-BLO

CKS

GRO

-SLA

BS

3”, 4” and 6” gRO-bLOcKS

when well-rooted, insert into/onto any gRO-SLAb, or onto the big Mama .

Place a well-rooted, 3” or 4” gRO-bLOcK on top for larger plants .

well-rooted gRO-bLOcKS are perfect to stack on top of these .

can easily mix with other growing medi-ums (expanded clay pellets, etc .) to custom-ize mixture, then place in any container or net basket as desired .

Usually inserted into a gRO-bLOcK or UNI-SLAb before potting into container .

Plastic containers filled with grROw-cUbeS or gROw-chUNKS .

hugo fits into a Maxipot when bottom half is first filled with gROw-cUbeS .

A giant Pot with gROw-cUbeSs, gROw-chUNKS or other medium . heavy block, great for stand alone growing .

Place in Dutch Leach tray or directly on the ground/table .

Any size or shaped container . Layering with other soil-less me-dias in a container works just as well as actual mixing . gRO-wOOL (water absorbent granulate) is extremely effective in helping to maintain a water buffer when

SOAK-PLANT: Submerge in a 5 .5 ph water solution (10 seconds is enough), then drain to waste . Start your plants in the gRO-SMART Tray™ for best results .

SOAK-fLUSh-PLANT: Submerge into 5 .5 ph water solution for 30 minutes . flush to waste with nutrient solution (same concentration that you were using for the starters) . for multiple blocks, use a garden hose to wet up all the blocks . Insert drippers (use 2 for a big Mama) . Start irrigation with ph 5 .5 Nutrient solution . Let it run long enough so each block receives twice its own volume . Drain to waste, then refill tank with fresh nutrient solution .

SOAK-fLUSh-PLANT: cut holes on top of bag for gRO-bLOcKS and fill with ph 5 .5 nutrient solution . Soaking for 30 minutes . cut 2 holes along the bottom side of each slab and drain to waste . Then fLUSh to waste with same nutrient solution that you’re using on the plant that will be placed on top .

SOAK-fLUSh-PLANT: Submerge into 5 .5 ph water for 30 minutes, drain to waste . flush to waste with nutrient solution .

SOAK-fLUSh-PLANT Submerge into 5 .5 ph water for 5 minutes, drain to waste . flush to waste with nutrient solution then plant .

PRODUCT PRE-CONDITIONING USE WITH AVOID FITS NAMES INSTRUCTIONS WITH... THIS... INTO...

A-OK™ MAcROPLUgS™ MINI-bLOcKS™

gRO-bLOcKS™ (3” and 4”)

hugo™

big Mama™

UNI-SLAb™

gRO-SLAb™

gRO-wOOL™ Absorbant granulate

gRO-cUbeS™ & gRO-chUNKS™

Stacking directly onto the big Mama (it’s too tall for a little plant)

Overwatering which can stunt root development

Placing A-OK’s/MAcRO-PLUgS directly in it, or MINI-bLOcKS directly on it .

Stacking on/under the big Mama (it’s too tall for opti-mal nutrient absorbtion) .

Do not compress the wet gRO-wOOL down into the pot .

They look like croutons, but they are not meant for eating!

2


Increase Your Selling Potential

gROw YOUR bUSINeSS

Want to set your store apart from the competition? These ideas might help do just that.

Market your store and the products you offer • Position healthy plants near the entrance, preferable a

store-front window. Show customers that the product you sell actually grows healthy plants. Always choose plants that you can keep looking nice and bug-free. Coleus, Swedish Ivy, Cinnamon basil and most house plants are good choices. A calming environment of healthy plants attracts curious browsers and potential customers.

• When displaying one plant growing in clay pellets or soil, consider showing a plant growing in Grodan GROW-CUBES or a GRO-BLOCK alongside so customers can see the difference. If you have a display system set up - consider showing plants growing out of different media.

• Consider holding a free, 1-hour “propagation” class in your store after hours - maybe one per month. Select a different topic if your client base is more advanced. Offer a free plant (small, rooted cutting) to all participants. It’s inexpensive for you and will help draw people in.

• Always make sure that your store information is updated and correct on grodan101.com. This costs you no money, and people use it to find a store nearest them. Use the store locator in top right corner and if the information is incorrect, complete the online form and submit it.

• Get involved with local schools. Identify local science teachers, schedule a meeting, and offer to speak to a classroom on “An introduction to Hydroponics” . See the ‘Classroom’ section on our Website for ideas. Bring basic products and let the audience touch them. This generates interest in our youth - and they’ll bring their parents in to see your store.

Swedish Ivy

• Display an easy-to-read store sign, as large as possible. This is essential in informing the community that you exist. Post store hours clearly and always make sure someone is present during posted store hours.

3

Cinnamin Basil

Coleus

• Train your staff well so they can convey accurate information to your customers. An easy way to educate them on Grodan usage is to have them watch the Gro-SMART videos on our Website. It’s even better if all your employees take turns growing the plants for the store to gain valuable practical experience. Stores can easily lose credibility and customers if they find out they received incorrect information from your staff.

• Broaden your store appeal by offering something for all ages - from school children to grandparents. Show display setups that are simple so beginners will not feel overwhelmed and will be tempted to try it out. No customer should ever leave without at least a small purchase.

• Avoid “competition bashing”. Instead, focus on what you can provide to the customer that has more value and is worth paying more for. Aggressive price wars never increase the overall profitability of a store. The consumer - not the store - is the only winner in the end.


Growing Hydroponic Herbs for Local restaurants

Specialty gourmet herbs are more popular than ever as consumers are demanding fresher and less processed foods and are willing to pay for better quality dishes. For most restaurants it is an absolute necessity to have access to fresh herbs, thus creating a great business opportunity for you. There are several inexpensive ways to make your own system for growing herbs that will enable you to feed the family and sell the rest to the restaurant. For a detailed growing guide sorted by herb, please visit grodan101.com.

Herb Nutrient Solution

element N P K Ca Mg Mn Fe Cu B Zn Mo

ppm: 250 80 80 200 75 2.0 2.0 0.2 1.0 0.5 0.02

The above is a basic nutrient solution suitable for herbs. Specific nutrient

requirements for each herb is given in a separate fact sheet devoted to that

specific herb. Several different herbs may be grown in a single nutrient solution; however, care must be taken to avoid minor nutrient

deficiencies.

The E.C. of this formula should be approximately 2.0 and then pH adjusted to 5.5 - 6.0. If the day length is below 11 hours, the E.C. should be increased slightly, but the concentration of N kept at 210 ppm. Under these conditions, a smaller root system develops and more energy is available for shoot (vegetative) growth. The higher E.C. insures adequate nutrition even with a smaller root system.

Following the propagation stage, the first watering should be with a half-strength nutrient solution, pH 5.8; however, the phosphorous concentration should be maintained at 80 ppm. Following germination, or after the first roots

initiate on the cuttings, the full strength nutrient solution should be used.

For herb production, Grodan starter plugs (A-OK™ 25/40, A-OK 36/40 and MINI-BLOCKS

(MM 40/40) can be used successfully in NFT systems or aeroponics systems.

Herbs can also be produced on GRO-SLABS with drip irrigation and in

systems with pots. In the latter, GROW-CUBES™ are a great choice.

Growing instructions are available for these herbs:

• Arugula/annual • Basil/opal - annual • Chervil/perennial• Chives/perennial • Cilantro/annual • Dill/annual• Lemon Balm/perennial• Marche/annual (salad green)• Oregano• Rosemary/perennial• Sage/perennial• Sorrel/perennial• Spear & peppermint• Thyme/perennial• Tarragon/perennial

gROw YOUR bUSINeSS

4


The most important characteristic that a grower seeks in a hydroponic medium is uniformity. Especially in an ebb and flood system, the capillarity (upward movement) of water in the medium is important as well, as it helps the slabs stay wet on the top as well as the bottom.

Why is uniformity so important?When growing plants in a controlled environment, plants grow from a smaller amount of media than when grown outdoors. It is therefore crucial to maximize that root growth inside that small area of media. When a media lacks uniformity, nutrient solution cannot spread evenly and will result in restricted root growth.

Tests for Evaluating Growing Media

Why is capillarity so important? Good capillarity is vital when using an ebb and flood system. When flooding the tray a few inches, the nutrient solution should spread (wick up) evenly and quickly to the rest of the medium. Grodan GRO-BLOCKS™ have excellent capillarity. Fast capillary movement in a uniform product ensures good root growth in flood systems.

The graphics above show the results of a capillarity test using blue dye. Both blocks flooded for ten minutes in the same tray.

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

Even root distribution in various Grodan products. Top left to right: Root growth in GRO-SLABS™, Root Growth in GROW-CUBES™. Bottom: Typical root growth in Grodan GRO-BLOCK™.

BLUE DYE TEST

You need highly concentrated blue food coloring. For this reason, it is a good idea to wear gloves for this test. Choose the media you want to test, then use plain water to completely saturate all the media.

Using your normal irrigation system, give each test subject equal amounts of blue water, whether you are using drip or ebb and flood. Make sure that the blue dye is very concentrated before you test. It will be messy but will reveal a dramatic difference.

How to test the quality of hydroponic mediaHere is a simple test to determine the quality of your hydroponic media.

With drip irrigation, you will see an even hue across the whole unit of Grodan. With ebb and flood systems, you will see a better capillary movement and distribution of the blue dye throughout the Grodan GRO-BLOCK™.

Notice the uneven light color with the non-Grodan rockwool on the top versus the dark color evenly spread within the Grodan GRO-SLAB below.

On right, see PET plastic grow medium. Below, examine the Grodan GRO-

5


This product is specifically designed to house a large plant... (think Ficus tree) or to grow a mother plant. Big Mama’s volume is a staggering 512 oz. versus Hugo’s 216 oz. Rockwool will easily wick up to 4” in height, but beyond that rockwool will retain progressively less moisture. Thank gravity for that. This is why Grodan has specific recommendations for using the Big Mama.

• First, place ONLY a well-rooted 3” or 4” GRO-BLOCK on top to ensure the optimum health of the plant.

• Second, Drip irrigation is the most effective system for the Big Mama, but any top watering will work. Placing one dripper stake into the top block, and a second one into the Big Mama is sufficient to maintain proper moisture levels.

note: using the Big MaMa in an eBB & Flood systeM is not recoMMended.

What to know about the BIG MaMa™

A) Both blocks were saturated using a garden hose. For conditioning and ir-rigation, two dripper stakes were inserted -one in each block.

B) Both blocks were saturated using a garden hose. For condi-tioning and irrigation, only one dripper stake was inserted into the top block.

C) Only the top block was saturated to start. Then, for condi-tioning and irrigation, just one dripper stake was inserted into the top block.

Lesson #1: don’t try to wet up a dry Big Mama using only one drip stake. Instead, use two drip stakes per block when conditioning and irrigating.

Lesson #2: Before using, aLWaYS soak the Big Mama completely with a garden hose.

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

Testing Big Mama to see what works best1. Using a garden hose, completely saturate the blocks

with water.

2. Insert two drippers into the block. Fill the tank with pH 5.5 water, and water each block long enough so that the block receives 2.5 gallons of water. This ensures a complete flush of the block. If you only have a few blocks, skip steps 1 and 2, and simply use the ½” hose from the pump and hand-water with pH 5.5 from top down, until completely saturated.

3. Discard the drain water. Mix up the same nutrient solution that you have been using for the plants you are about to transplant. Irrigate until each block has received 2.5 gallons of nutrient. Then adjust tank back to pH 5.5.

4. Place a 3” or 4” block with well-rooted plant onto Big Mama. Insert one drip stake into one side of the plant in the small block and one drip stake into the Big Mama on the opposite side of the small block. It’s acceptable if the Big Mama’s surface doesn’t feel particularly moist. Less surface moisture on Grodan will lessen algae growth.

5. After placing a smaller plant on top of Big Mama, minimize initial watering to encourage rooting into the Big Mama. Watch to make sure the small block doesn’t become too dry. To achieve this; place both drip stakes immediately below the small block. Angle the drip stakes in - under the block. For the first few days after transplant; irrigate six one-minute cycles per day. As the plant grows, increase this to 2-3 minutes per cycle.

Conditioning is complete when drippers have released 2.5 gal of pH 5.5 water per block.

6


Understanding Basic Irrigation Systems

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

There is a huge assortment of irrigation components available and it is not easy to know which way is the best way to go. For hydroponic vegetables, the choice is often ebb and flood or drip irrigation.

What’s the basic difference between them?DRIP IRRIGATION (TOP WATERING)

With drip irrigation, fresh nutrient solution is dripped down through the top of the block.

This is the way Grodan intended for their products to be irrigated. When top watering, Grodan products are designed to allow the water to spread quickly throughout the product and force out the old nutrient solution from the stonewool. Therefore if growing in stacked units, like Grodan GRO-BLOCKS on top of GRO-SLABS, always choose a top watering system.

DRIP ADVANTAGES

• It spreads out in the block and forces the old depleted nutrient to drain out. Position the drip stake so that the drip lands close to the stem, but without hitting the stem (as this can cause stem rot). In strong light

a plant remains more active (faster growth) if you water a little at a time, but quite frequently.

• You can control the amount of water you deliver each cycle. Refer to our tri-fold leaflet, “Grow” for an illustration and further explanation of a drip system.

• You can measure if you need to add on more irrigation cycles. Use a syringe to take a water sample from the block right after the last cycle of the day . If the E.C. or pH is too high, add an extra irrigation the next day.

7

EBB AND FLOOD

With Ebb & Flow (Flood), fresh nutrient solution is pumped up from below. Typically when it reaches about 1-1.5” up, the water starts to drain out of the tray valve. Capillarity (wicking action) of the block draws the solution towards the top of the block.

This is a good choice when growing smaller plants that remain in a smaller volume of substrate for the duration of their lifespan. This could be a 4” GRO-BLOCK or a 4” plastic pot with clay pellets surrounding a Grodan starter cube. Using a growing media height of 4” or less allows the water level in your ebb & flood system to reach up far enough for the growing media to be fully saturated during each irrigation cycle. If using a taller growing unit, the top will remain drier and simple capillary action will draw the salts to the top of the block. You will have less algae, but this method requires top watering once each week in order to flush any salt build-up from the top.

EBB AND FLOOD ADVANTAGES / DISADVANTAGES

• It is quick to set up—especially if you have several blocks/plants. Refer to our tri-fold leaflet, “Transplanting” for drawing and additional explanation of an ebb/flood system.

• With Ebb & Flow (Flood), the blocks are fully saturated during each cycle, so there is no way to control the amount of water.

• During this process, the old, depleted nutrient in the block is only partially flushed out. To help flush out old nutrients, we recommend top watering the blocks once per week.


SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

ebb and Flood example Step 1. If grow tray is 60” x 60”, empty tray will hold:

60” x 60” x 1” = 3,600 in 3 Step 2. To determine the required fill volume:

0.5 x 3,600 = 1,800 in 3. Step 3. Then, convert this to gallons:

1,800 in 3 / 231 = 7.8 gallons Step 4. To determine a 10-minute fill time:

7.8 gal/hr. X 60 = 468468 / 10 min. = 46.8 gph

The pump will loose slight pressure when it lifts the water up to the grow tray. Loss of pressure means that the GPH

will be a little lower than indicated on the pump package.

TIP: If you require more than six feet of growing area, the easiest way is to add an extra pump in the reservoir and build a system on the opposite side of the reservoir. This will ensure that all your plants get enough water.

Determine pump size and irrigation particulars EBB AND FLOOD

For this type of system you must calculate the fill rate. The pump should be able to fill the tray in ten minutes.

1. To determine the volume of water required, multiply the length (inches) by the width (inches) and assume a water fill height of 1 inch. this is the cubic inches of water that your empty container will hold.

2. Now multiply this number by 0.5 assuming that ½ of this volume will be absorbed by the plants. this is the required volume of water for your container.

3. Convert this number into gallons by dividing by 231. Size your pump so that the rate is at least equal to the required water divided by fill time. Remember, this number is in gal/min.

4. To convert to gal/hr., multiply by 60. Then to determine a ten minute fill time, divide by ten.

DRIP IRRIGATION (TOP WATERING)

For this type of system what matters most is the pressure (psi). Popular small pumps that retail for around $100 (such as Maxi Jet, Little Giant, Ecopro) do not generate enough pressure for larger systems as they are typically only 2-6 psi. When the pressure (psi) is too low, drip emitters will either not drip at all, clog up really fast, or limit the rated flow.

For small systems, it is possible to use a small pump and still get the benefit of top watering. Try this:

1. Do not use a drip emitter - instead use a drip stake that is not dependant on much pressure.

2. Attach ¼” tubing to the stake and stick the other end of the tubing with your ½” tubing. For a tight fit use a barbed insert. If necessary, seal with silicone.

3. Be sure to perform a test run with your timer to determine approximately how much water each plant receives during each irrigation cycle. Digital timers are best for scheduling short irrigation cycles.

Size of system Small pumps can raise water about 1.5 feet up and no more than 6 feet out. The greater the distance, the less water the plant will receive. See the tri-fold “pH and Watering” for guidelines on irrigation frequency and amount.

Using drip emitters (½ gph, 1 gph etc)The smallest pump to use with drip emitters is one that generates 10 psi. Look for a submersible pump that is about 1/3 HP. The great advantage with pressure regulated drip emitters is that all your plants will receive the same amount of water. For set-ups involving 20-30 plants, this is by far the best choice, as it is what many commercial greenhouses use.

Understanding Basic Irrigation Systems, cont.

Select a pump that is slightly larger than necessary to create a bypass to direct some of the water to the Ebb & Flood table while the rest of the water empties back into the tank. This will keep the fertilizer well mixed and also aerate the water.

Two ball valves (incorporated into the bypass) would enable the adjustment in the direction of the flow and the fill rate of the tray.

8


DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Purple stems, yellowing, root pack much less dense. The roots barely use 25% of the Hugo block. Block stays consistently heavy, and the watering schedule recently changed from daily to every other day.

ExPLANATION AND SOLUTION

The lack of roots is the most likely culprit. The problem started with your seedling.

• About 75% of the root mass is established when the plant is young.

• The roots will get longer/thicker later but the all the roots hairs must be established by the young plant. This is why we say that ‘healthy baby’ is the way to success.

Why didn’t healthy roots develop in the early stage?

• 99% of the time, your rockwool was kept too wet.

• The chloramine in your tap water could also have been too high. This can limit root growth, but not likely kill the plant. Talk to your local store about a carbon filter if you suspect chloramines, or use bottled water for your irrigation needs.

What in the World is Wrong with My Plants?

“I’ve sprouted seedlings in A-OK Starter Plugs then transplanted them directly into a Hugo block. Now, my plants look crappy and are growing very slowly.”

OMG - what’s wrong with my plants?

So you’re saying I’ve got Root Rot... and it’s THAT serious?

OK, so I may have been over watering, so what should I do?

Next time, I’ll be taking pre-ventative action, for sure!

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

THE EASY FIx

Since it’s easier to manage the water content in a smaller block, transplant the 1.5” cube to a 3” block first, then when it’s well rooted, place it onto the Hugo.

For successful transplanting,

• Mist the 3” block twice daily but don’t water until the block feels light (about half weight).

• When transplanting the rooted 3” plant , use a stake to hold it firmly to the Hugo.

• Water the 3” block (low volume, twice daily) until rooted into Hugo.

ANOTHER OPTION: KEEP YOUR CURRENT SETUP

• Change your watering early on. The seedling in 1.5” A-OK Cubes must be healthy, with roots that extend about 1” below the cubes for best results.

• After transplanting to the wet Hugo; Only MIST (plain water) the top of the block twice daily for the first week.

• AVOID watering until you can feel that Hugo is lighter or the upper part starts to dry out. Then water sparingly – right on the little cube – probably about ½ cup.

• Once you see active growth and the cube has rooted into Hugo, then slowly increase the water volume. Do NOT drown them!

9


RULE 1: ExCLUSION

• Fungal spores can come from anywhere, even tap water.

- Microscopic amounts of spores can survive in water or even be airborne.

• Sanitize the growing area.

- Bleach will kill fungal spores but always allow everything to dry completely before setting up again.

- Always clean stock tanks and equipment, and quarantine any new plant material until you are certain it is disease-free.

RULE 2: DRAINAGE

• The most common cause of root disease is overwatering. So, reduce watering in order to strengthen root growth.

- For drip irrigation, lower the duration.

- For flood irrigation, lower the cycle frequency.

RULE 3: HEALTHY ROOTS = SOLID FOUNDATION

• Roots almost always indicate symptoms of root rot before the leaves will.

- Roots should be a healthy white color.

- Nutrient solution can darken roots but dark roots lead to problems

- Slow growth can be an indicator of root rot.

Understand and avoid root rot

RULE 4: DON’T PANIC

• Anyone can experience plants with root disease - it happens.

• There are many fungicides (even some organic) available to use for this purpose. It is crucial to always read the label carefully - whether using organic or not.

• Immediately remove all affected plants from your main growing room.

“an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”...right?

RULE 5: PREVENTION

• Prevention is always the best way to avoid root rot and much easier than treating an outbreak.

• Consider adding a preventative water soluble fungicide to your tank.

• Avoid over watering.

- The water content of Grodan GRO-BLOCKS should reach about 50% BEFORE initiating the next watering.

- Never irrigate when the lights are off and aim for 50% water content in the blocks before turning the lights off.

• Make sure to establish quality root mass during propagation.

• Maintain an ideal temperature in the stock tank.

- Temperature should stay around 65°-70° F (18°-21° C). If the tank water reaches 80° F (24° C) the risk of root rot increases exponentially.

- Temperatures that fall below 60° F will shock the plants, stunting their growth.

- Always provide sufficient drainage.

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

10


SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

Identify and Correct Problems

Ca deficiency in leaves Ca deficiency in fruit

PROBLEM: Cuttings are not rooting• Diagnosis: Your tap water has too much

chloramine (plant toxin). Chloramines are used by a number of water treatment plants and therefore also frequently found in tap water. Chloramines kills beneficial bacteria in the root zone. But more importantly, chloramines are very dangerous for plant growth and will spread toxicity to the plants very easily.

• Solution: Use a carbon filter on your tap water before using on the plants. Feeding with chloramines is just as dangerous with flood water as it is with drip irrigation. A carbon filter will definitely solve any issues. There are shower heads available that also removes the chloramines. Alternatively, use bottled water for your cuttings/seedlings.

PROBLEM: Seeds sprouted but turned brownish• Diagnosis: If you used the right water (see above)

then this is most likely pythium which causes Damping Off (root rot). Pythium can kill seedlings overnight. It is a fungus that is found naturally in many soils (and peat). In wet, warm, stagnant water conditions - it will cause damage to seedlings trying to grow in Grodan.

• Solution: If you have a persistent problem with Pythium; add a fungicide (only use 10% of recommended strength) to your water.

• Diagnosis 1: If the youngest leaves curl downward, often it indicates a calcium deficiency. If old leaves are curled; something is probably wrong in the root zone (which also reduces the calcium uptake).

• Solution: Lower the humidity in your grow room. Add fans to improve air circulation

• Diagnosis 2: Another cause of BER or obvious Ca deficiency in the leaves is due to poor root development. This is a result of (A) low substrate temperatures or (B) the presence of a root pathogen such as Pythium or Phytophthora. If the roots are not actively growing, new root tips will not form and consequently, Ca uptake will be reduced.

• Solution A: For low substrate temperature, increase reservoir temperature to about 68 F (20 C). If outside, set a heat mat to the same temperature and place it under the slab.

• Solution B: Pythium becomes a problem if the slabs are kept too wet at night. Stop irrigation in good time so that the slab water content can lower to about 55% before the lights turn off.

PROBLEM: Calcium deficiency (leaves curl down)Calcium deficiency is the result of insufficient water movement through the plant. Calcium only travels in the water stream of the plant, not in the nutrient stream. Therefore, calcium deficiency is usually related to the climate in the growing area. High humidity will slow the calcium uptake even if there is sufficient Ca in the feed solution. Also, large humidity fluctuations between day and night will disrupt the Ca flow within the plant and lead to blossom-end rot (BER).

11


PROBLEM: Algae growthAny time there is a light colored surface moist with nutrients and water, there will be algae growth. Algae are not harmful to the plant, but excess amounts of algae (especially dead “black” algae can attract fungus gnats. For this reason, it is best to minimize algae growth. Extreme algae growth can cause nutrient solution from the drip emitters to run off the GRO-BLOCK, instead soaking into it.

• Diagnosis: When there is excess amounts of algae growing on the top of the block, fungus gnats and shore flies lay their eggs in the algae and the larvae that hatch will feed on the algae. When the population of the fungus gnats get very high the larvae can even attack the roots and can cause a secondary infection of Pythium (root rot). On the other hand, shore flies will not feed on the root but will leave their feces all over the plants/fruit.

• Solution: Proper water management and avoiding over-watering will in most cases prevent this type of problem. However, for chronic over-waterers, plastic covers or coco caps can help to minimize algae by restricting light from hitting the surface of the rockwool. But it’s crucial to keep your reservoir temperature below 70 F (21 C). Higher temperatures can cause bacterial infection. (If experiencing bacterial infection; once the blocks have rooted well into the slabs or potting mix– move the drip tube down beside the block. The drier top will help avoid bacterial infection.)

PROBLEM: Stunted plant growthUnhealthy plants exhibit stunted growth as a result of a weakened root system.

• Diagnosis: Temperature of reservoir measured 79 F (26 C). A temperature this hot weakens the roots making them susceptible to all fungi & diseases – and can cause devastating problems. Typically reservoir water should be a few degrees colder than the maximum above – so 18-23 ( 65-73 F) because the water typically heats up some once it enters the slab or block.

• Solution: maintain a temperature inside rockwool between 59-70 F. (The ideal is 65-70 F (18 C -21 C) Any lower than 59 F and it can stunt plant growth.

SUcceSSfUL gROwINg

Identify and Correct Problems

PROBLEM: Mildew (two main types)There are two main types of plant mildew; powdery, and downy. It is important to know the difference.

• Powdery mildew: notice white ‘spots’ on the top surface of the leaves.

• Downy mildew: notice yellow wilted spots on the top side of the leaves, but this kind actually lives under the leaf.

Mildew can be very difficult to kill. Even if you clean

your room meticulously, your next crop is still susceptible because spores float through the air and can land on new plants to infect them as well.

• Solution - Step 1: Remove your old plants. Then, leave the room undisturbed for 24 hours (so the spores settle on the surfaces). Now go in and spray the whole room with a pesticide for mildew. Finally, use a 10% bleach solution and wipe down/clean the area thoroughly.

• Solution - Step 2: For your daily maintenance, check all plants for any sign of mildew. If you notice any, immediately spray both the infected plant and its closest neighbors. Spray on top of the leaf for Powdery Mildew and spray under the leaf for Downy Mildew.

High humidity increases mildew problems. So always have fans blowing to provide decent air circulation throughout the entire room.

12

DownyMildew

Powdery Mildew


fRee & heLPfUL STUff

Grodan Literature • Grodan provides a set of six tri-folds complete with a

multi-pocket, space-saving acrylic literature stand for your store counter. Hand these to all customers who buy Grodan from you. Ask your Grodan supplier for free refills.

• The Grodan Gro-SMART with Grodan DVD series is also available on our Website (under VIDEOS button on top right). Use this fantastic tool to train your staff in the proper use of Grodan products so they can better instruct your customers.

• Additional standalone topical brochures are also available. To view these, go to grodan101.com, Knowledge Center, Literature/Brochures.

The Grodan ‘InSIdEr’Throughout the year Grodan produces a news-letter called the Insider through email. To sign up go to grodan101.com, log in, and go to Profile settings (top of screen). Always keep your store information updated.

Personal Store VisitsGrodan is committed to supporting our retailers and this includes a visit by Grodan Product Specialist to your store to answer questions, offer guidance, and suggest time- and money-saving tips to help you succeed. We love to see stores who take pride in their stores, share their passion for growing and are open to learning more. Your feedback is invaluable to us so please keep this in mind when you meet your Grodan representative.

While visiting all 2,000 Grodan stores per year for sales team of five is physically impossible, we are dedicated to visiting as many stores as possible throughout the year and will let you know by post card the next time we will be in your area.

In the meantime, email [email protected] if we can be of any assistance to you. Should you have any technical questions, call our retailer designated hot line at 1-888-444-2476.

other Grodan PromosRead the insider carefully to find out what promos are currently available and how to get them. This may include new brochures, banners, posters, pocket passports, laminated barcode reference (to keep near register to speed transactions) or something entirely different. Supplies are often limited so if you see something you want, let us know right away.

13

Grodan TIPS & TrICKS

USa: 5152 North commerce Ave ., Moorpark, cA 93021Canada: 2800 highpoint Drive, Suite 202, Milton, ON L9T 6P4

www .grodan101 .com, info@grodan101 .comPhone 888 444 2476, fax 805 240 1323


GRODAN’S FINE PRODUCTS ARE ExCLUSIVELY DISTRIBUTED BY:

Canada

BIOFLORAL www .biofloral .com info@biofloral .com(cAN) 450-664-4844

EDDI’S WHOLESALE GARDENwww .eddiswholesale .com eddis@eddiswholesale .com(cAN) 604-607-4447

GREENSTARwww .getgreenstar .com info@getgreenstar .com(cAN) 604-882-7699

HOMEGROWN HYDROPONICSwww .hydroponics .com homegrown@hydroponics .com(cAN) 416-242-4769

United States

BWGS (Bloomington Wholesale)www .bwgs .comsales@bwgs .com (USA) 800-316-1306

ECO ENTERPRISESwww .ecogrow .com ecoenter@aol .com(USA) 800-426-6937

HYDROFARMwww .hydrofarm .com wholesale@hydrofarm .com(USA) 800-634-9990

NGW (Sunlight Supply)www .sunlightsupply .com hydroinfo@nationalgardenwholesale .com(USA) 888-570-4678

@grodan101grodan101

MA

R201

3-10

00EN

G

grodan tips & tricks · grodan tips & tricks expect more. demand grodan. expect more....

Documents