Author: Eunice

  • What Size Garden Hose for Pressure Washers: Best Sizes

    What Size Garden Hose for Pressure Washers: Best Sizes

    A garden hose pressure washer can serve as a great tool for cleaning different surfaces and objects in your garden. Whether you want to clean your aged deck, stained concrete, dirty fence, and so on, a pressure washer can get the job done easily. But what size garden hose for pressure washers?  Let’s find out.

    Rather than using your regular low-pressure hose to clean these surfaces, you can simply connect your regular garden hose to a pressure washer. However, you also need to get the ideal garden hose size that will fit the pressure washer for optimal results.

    A garden hose pressure washer will help you get rid of any dirt that may be deposited in any porous material. Hence, this makes the pressure washer an effective tool for cleaning brick, wood, mortar, and paving tiles. So, here is an informative guide about garden hose pressure washers and what size garden hose is for pressure washers. 

    Garden Hose Pressure Washer

    A garden hose pressure washer is an electric-powered tool that is designed to take in water from a regular garden hose and this toll generates an increased water pressure. This works with the help of the mechanical pump that forces the water flowing in to move up through a narrow hose and out through the nozzle by directing the flow of water.

    Garden Hose Pressure Washer

    5 Main parts of a pressure washer

    Before you begin to work on these tools, you should have some info about the various parts of a pressure washer. We have 5 main parts to a pressure washer and they are:

    1. Water pump: this is responsible for pumping water with enough force to bring about high-pressure output used for cleaning tough materials.
    2. Engine or motor: gas or electricity is what the engine or motor runs on. So, an electric pressure washer will require plugging into an electrical outlet. Then the one that runs on gas will require the gas tank to be filled before use.
    3. Water inlet: the water inlet needs to be connected to the garden hose to supply constant water to the pressure washer.
    4. High-pressure hose: once water can flow into the pressure washer, it is pumped out through the high-pressure hose. Now, this hose tends to vary in length but they are usually about 20 to 50 feet.
    5. Wand and nozzle attachments: you can find the wand at the end of the high-pressure hose which is installed with the nozzle attachment. The direction and water output of the pressure washer can be controlled by this wand. There is a trigger that needs to be squeezed on the wand for water to spray out of the nozzle at the end of the wand.

    What Size Garden Hose for Pressure Washers: Ideal Size

    The common garden hose size diameters include 5/8, 3/ 4, and half inches. However, when it comes to connecting your garden hose to a pressure washer, you might want to consider going for a bigger size such as one inch or 1 ¼ inch.

    Flexi Hose with 8 Function Nozzle Expandable, Lightweight & No-Kink Flexible Garden Hose, 3/4 inch

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    The reason is that once the water from the pressure washer enters the garden hose, more room is required to move or flow through. Therefore, to ensure there is adequate space for increased water flow, a wider end of the garden hose is required.

    • A garden hose with a diameter size of one and a quarter inches can take up to 2000 PSI. Hence, this can handle almost nearly all types of pressure washers you may find without allowing them to destroy your plant or flare up your area.
    • With a diameter size of one inch, it can handle up to 1500 PSI. This size is ideal for high-end pressure washers. However, if the pressure washer is more low-end, then it can still handle it.

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    What Size Garden Hose for the Pressure Washer? 

    The length of the hose may not really matter except the hose is extremely long. You can go for a length of 25 feet of hose for your balconies, patio, as well as small yards. However, when you’re dealing with bigger yards, you will need a longer length (as long as 50 feet) to get to corners that are hard to reach. But know that longer hose length filled with water will feel heavy to carry or drag around.

    You can have a decrease of about 4 PSI per 100 feet for an average 5/8 inch supply hose. What most manufacturers recommend is a pressure washer with a minimum of 20 PSI.

    Hose Length Needed

    Can a Longer Garden Hose Decrease Water Pressure?

    The length of the garden hose can truly affect the pressure of water as well as the rate of flow. If the length of the water hose is long, it can lower the flow of water and vice versa.

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    Garden Hose Pressure Washer: Precautions to Take

    Sometimes spraying your face with some water can feel refreshing, especially in hot weather outdoors. A regular garden hose stream is not so forceful, so if it touches your face, it may not cause any harm.

    However, you need to take care when using a garden hose pressure washer if it is releasing very high water pressure. If this high-pressure water sprays on your face, it may cause serious damage to some parts of your face.

    Your eyes may be seriously affected and it may cause serious bruising and abrasions on the skin. Therefore, ensure you learn how to handle this tool with proper care.

    You can further take some good steps by wearing protective eyewear, closed-toe shoes, and gloves just to keep yourself safe.

    Can You Use an Expandable Hose With a Pressure Washer?

    To put it simply, yes you can. However, the hose must be between your hose and the water inlet of the washer. If you’re unsure whether you can do this with your expandable hose, try referring to the manufacturer’s guide for more detailed information.

    DIY Garden Hose Pressure Washer

    If you’re wondering how to make your own pressure washer from the comfort of your home, then look no further. You’ll just need the following four supplies:

    • plastic pen
    • plastic cable ties
    • super glue
    • garden hose

    Now all you need to do is:

    1. Choose a pen. The pen should be easy to dismantle and have a similar width to your hose.
    2. Disassemble. Disassemble the pen completely so you’re left with singular components. The only parts you’ll need are the tip and the main plastic bulk of the pen. The rest can be recycled or reused for another project.
    3. Glue. Using your super glue, glue the tip and plastic back together again and leave it to dry.
    4. Insert pen. Place the dried pen into your hose so that it fits snugly (place it around halfway into the hose itself) – this is why the width of the pen must be similar to the width of the hose. Take two cable ties and tie both around the end to ensure the pen stays firmly in place.
    5. Test. Slowly turn on your tap and check that it isn’t too aggressive. Your DIY garden hose pressure washer is now ready to use!

    What if I Have Weak Water Pressure?

    You may notice that it’s not the pressure nozzle that’s the problem, but your water pressure itself. If this is the case, you can test this and fix the problem with ease. Let’s take a closer look.

    Grab a bucket and fill it with water and add around 1/4 cup of bleach. Coil your hose and place it into the bucket, completely covered in water. Leave for at least 8 hours and then move the hose to a second bucket. This should have clean water in and leave for another hour or two. Reattach the hose itself to your tap and turn on the water, allowing any excess badness to wash away.

    Where to Buy High-Pressure Hose Clamps?

    You can buy high-pressure hose clamps from many stores, online, and in person. However, I’ve found that the easiest place to find high-pressure hose clamps is Amazon. In terms of ease and price, it doesn’t get better than Amazon for high-pressure hose clamps. These are essential for any budding gardener. Just be sure to buy the correct size for your hose.

    diy garden hose pressure washe

    Final Word: What Size Garden Hose for Pressure Washers?

    A garden hose pressure washer can do a great job cleaning lots of surfaces and objects. And this article provides an informative guide on the things you need to know about this useful tool.

    If you’re looking for an average of the size you’re most likely to use for a garden hose pressure washer, the best size to use is around 1 1/4 inches. This allows good water flow and good power – both of which are imperative for an effective pressure washer. Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to what size garden hose for the pressure washer to use? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!

    FAQs

    How do I make my garden hose high pressure?

    You can get more pressure on your garden hose by simply turning the bolt on the PRV clockwise on your main water supply near your water meter.

    Can you attach the pressure washer to the hose?

    Yes, it is possible to attach a pressure washer to your hose. Select a nozzle that fits and connect the pressure washer to the water supply line with the garden hose.

    Does the length of a hose affect water pressure?

    Yes, the length of the hose can have some effect on the water pressure. This implies that the longer the pipe of the hose, the more the water pressure will drop.

    Can you use a 100 ft water hose on a pressure washer?

    You can use a 100 feet water hose on a pressure washer. Just know that a longer hose tends to minimize the water pressure slowly.

  • Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Many of us love to have houseplants in our various homes because they give that sweet look to our space. There are so many houseplants to choose and some of them even come in different captivating colors. A plant with purple under leaves is what we will be looking at in this post.

    These houseplants with purple underleaves give this warm texture and add a royal appeal to your indoor space. They can fit perfectly into your interiors and you can even grow them in combination with other green houseplants.

    A plant with purple under leaves will be listed here so continue reading for some insight on this.

    Plant With Purple Under Leaves: 7 Most Popular

    Below is the list of some common houseplants with purple under leaves:

    1.    Oyster plant

    A plant with purple under leaves that is quite popular is the oyster plant. The oyster plant originates from Mexico, Brazil, and Guatemala and this lovely plant is a resistant and hardy plant that can thrive well in containers. You can also grow this plant outdoors in your garden in areas with mild winters.

    The leaves of the oyster plant stand erect and have a height of up to 6 inches long with purple reverse growing densely on the stem forming spiral rosettes.

    Houseplants With Purple Leaves - Oyster Plant

    The amount of light an oyster plant receives usually determines the color intensity. So, if this plant is positioned in a deep shade spot, it can lose its purple hues. However, don’t expose oyster plants to direct bright sunlight because this can scorch the plant.

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    2.    Wandering jew – A plant with purple underleaves

    Another popular houseplant with purple under leaves is Wandering Jew which is also known as Tradescantia Zebrina. Wandering Jew is a modest and durable houseplant with this charming and enchanting colored creeper that grows naturally in woodland and open fields in Mexico.

    The plant is characterized by this oval, 3 to 4 inches long shiny leaves of silver-green stripes that are oppositely arranged. Its intensely colored leaves grow densely on watery and thick stems.

    Wandering Jew houseplant is a perfect fit for hanging baskets and you can place it on your east and west windows, forming a two to three feet long colorful cascade. This plant is quite tolerant to most temperatures except for freezing temperatures. The plant is easy to grow and maintain and it’s great for beginners.

    3.    Calathea medallion

    Calathea Medallion is also referred to as Calathea Veitchiana and this plant is one stunning plant with purple under leaves. The plant is from the Marantaceae family and it originates from the jungle of the Amazon and South America, where it grows under the shade of high tropical vegetation.

    Calathea Medallion – 6″ from California Tropicals

    You need to take care of this plant because the broad leaves tend to react strongly to adverse conditions. Hence, you must pay close attention by providing the plant with increased humidity levels, temperature between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and moderately moist soil.

    4.    Alocasia amazonica polly

    Alocasia Amazonica Polly is a plant from the Araceae family. The plant is characterized by its large, arrow foliage with pronounced white nervation.

    This plant may not be the easiest plant to grow, but it has this captivating look that makes the extra effort worth it. It is a plant with purple underleaves grown indoors.

    However, note that the plant contains poisonous calcium oxalate and this can cause some health issues for both humans and pets.

    Provide this houseplant with bright filtered light, a humid environment, and warm conditions. So, because this is a warm-loving plant, you will need to water it during its growing season at least two times a week. Then water once every 7-14 days during winter.

    The plant doesn’t like dry air, non-permeable soil, or low temperatures. So, it’s a good idea to mist the plant often and avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight.

    Additionally, clean the shiny leather leaves regularly by using a moist cloth.

    5.    Gynura sarmentosa – Houseplants with purple underleaves

    Gynura sarmentosa is a lovely houseplant that is characterized by its nettle-like leaves covered with thick purple hairs. The plant looks so velvety and refined and it grows naturally in tropical Asia as a small shrub with shoots that rely on each other. This plant is also great for a hanging basket and its stem will spread in all directions.

    Gynura Sarmentosa thrives in warm and humid conditions. However, take note not to spray its hairy leaves.

    6.    Stromanthe sanguinea

    Stromanthe Sanguinea features this artistic white and green colored leaf surface with this intense purple reverse. This intense purple reverse is mostly pronounced at night when the plant folds its leaves.

    Care for this plant by providing it with bright but indirect sunlight, a humidity of at least 60%, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.

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    7.    Cetenanthe plant

    The cetenanthe plant is also referred to as the Never Never plant and it is from the Marantaceae family that comes from the rainforests of Northeast Brazil. The plant features this large silver-green striped oblong leaves that grow densely from the rhizome root.

    This plant grows optimally in a partially shaded spot, with well-draining soil, and a warm and humid environment that is similar to its homeland. This is why you need to provide this plant with extra moisture by spraying the leaves, using a humidifier, or simply placing them in your bathroom.

    Fuzzy Green Leaves With Purple Underneath – What is it?

    You may see a plant that has fuzzy green leaves, with purple coloring (it can sometimes look almost maroon or burgundy) underneath. If this is the case, you’re probably looking at the Velvet Calathea (otherwise known as the Calathea Rufibarba). The leaves will be long, but thin. What’s interesting is that they’re hairy underneath, which is where they get their furry nickname from.

    This particular plant is relatively easy to care for, but you need to ensure that it’s free from any pests often. And you’ll also need to ensure it receives the nutrients it requires. You should water this plant every five days or so and keep it n temperatures between 64F and 73F. While it can survive in slightly lower temperatures, it’s a tropical plant, so it does enjoy its humidity.

    Green Leaves With Purple Veins – What Does This Mean?

    Another plant that you may have seen has green leaves, that are covered in deep purple veins. If this is the case, you’re likely looking at the Fishnet Stockings Coleus. This plant gets its nickname from the veins themselves looking like stockings. However, the purple color does eventually change to green. This plant can grow up to around 2 feet in height.

    Purple Leaf Perennials: Popular Varieties

    There are many popular varieties of purple-leaf perennials. Let’s take a closer look at some of our top picks.

    • Cercis canadensis. You may know this plant better by its nickname, forest pansy. It’s a versatile plant that can last up to 20 years and can reach up to 8 meters in height if provided with the right growing conditions. This plant enjoys the sun and should be kept in well-drained soil. This plant changes colors throughout the year. Such as reddish leaves in Spring, burgundy leaves in Summer, and orange and gold in Autumn.
    • Cotinus. You may know this plant better by its nickname, royal purple. This is a shrub that has dark purple, oval-shaped, leaves. This plant enjoys the sun and will thrive in most types of soils. As long as it’s pruned often, this plant can grow up to 8 feet in height.
    • Heuchera. You may know this plant better by its nickname, the midnight rose. This plant is the perfect mixture of both purple and vibrant pink…which doesn’t sit well with some gardeners. But, I, personally, love it! However, it can be quite prone to vine weevil, so it’s best to plant outdoors, in open ground. This plant enjoys full sun or dappled shade.

    plant with purple leaves

    Purple Leaf Plant Identification

    The best way to find out what purple leaf plant you have if you’re unsure, is using an app such as Plant Net Identify. Or try to find some other obvious markers to help identify which species your plant is. Most of the time, the term “purple” is used loosely, as it’s not often that the leaf of a plant is purely purple. It often has red highlights or other colored undertones. However, in previous years, gardeners have enjoyed adding purple-leaf plants to their gardens.

    Additional Say: Plant With Purple Under Leaves

    We have listed popular houseplants with purple under leaves and some details about them. However, note that there are many other types with these features. There are many to choose from, and all are just as gorgeous as the next! Do you know of any other plant with purple under the leaves? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring! 

    FAQs

    What plant has purple under the leaf?

    Some of the common plants that have purple under their leaf include wandering Jew, oyster plant, calathea medallion, stromanthe sanguine, ctenanthe plant, gynura sarmentosa, and many more.

    Why are leaves purple underneath?

    Some plants naturally have purple leaves underneath. However, if your plant is not naturally purple underneath and it shows purple, then it may be a sign of phosphorous deficiency.

    How do you fix purple leaves?

    Fixing a plant that is showing purple leaves when it isn’t naturally purple means you have to deal with phosphorus deficiency. So, you will need to make pH adjustments and flush your plants with pH and nutrients containing phosphorus.

    How do I identify a plant by its leaves?

    You can identify a plant by its leaves if you closely look at the shape and size of the plant’s leaves. For instance, broad and wide leaves can signify that the plant is a tropical plant. Then pointy pine needles can signify that the plant is an evergreen species.

  • Do Pepper Plants Come Back: Improve Your Harvest

    Do Pepper Plants Come Back: Improve Your Harvest

    Do pepper plants come back every year? Let’s get the answers to that here. Pepper is both classified as a fruit and a vegetable according to botany and culinary definitions.

    It’s a great feeling to plant, grow, nurture, and then begin to harvest your vegetables. What is more tempting is wishing you could keep your healthy vegetables growing year after year. This applies to most pepper farmers, as the plant is a slow grower, which makes it desirable to want it to keep growing.

    It will be nice if pepper plants do grow back every year. If you live in a region where the winter is not so serious, you can definitely give it a thought. The thing is, in most parts of North America and any other place where the winter is really serious, pepper plants won’t be able to survive if they are left outside.

    The best thing is to bring your pepper plants indoors and provide them with the best indoor care, especially if they are the potted indoor variety.

    Keep reading to get more answers to the question: Do pepper plants come back every year? You will also get some tips for keeping your pepper growing year after year.

    Do Pepper Plants Come Back Every Year?

    Normally, all kinds of pepper are grown as annuals by most growers. Pepper is sown, grown, picked, and then thrown into the compost heap when the season ends.

    But the truth of the matter is that pepper plants are perennials, and if you grow them and give them in the appropriate conditions, they can grow every year.

    Pepper Plants Grow Back Every Year

    Ideal Conditions to Help Pepper Grow Back Every Year

    As we mentioned, pepper plants can grow every year if you provide them with good conditions. So, let’s take a look at how to be successful at growing peppers in any type of climatic condition.

    1.    The growing temperature

    Peppers are perennials that can come back in the spring after being dormant in the previous season. This will be surprising to many North American gardeners. Peppers are mostly grown as annuals in the United States and most temperate regions in other parts of the world.

    This is because the plant will die when temperatures dip low, especially during low winter temperatures and shorter days. Peppers can’t survive the cold winter let alone when it’s freezing cold.

    In fact, during a temperature as low as 55 degrees Fahrenheit and below, it will be a waste of time sowing seeds directly into the soil. The seeds won’t even germinate at all. And this will also have you wondering if pepper plants really do grow back every year.

    You can, however, proffer a solution of laying down black plastic mulch or other non-treated mulch to keep the soil temperature warm with a heating pad.

    2.    Soil and fertilizer type

    The ideal soil for growing peppers successfully is slightly acidic soil with pH levels of 6.5-7. Before transplanting seedlings, endeavor to break the soil up. This will help get their roots established.

    Breaking up the soil before transplanting, will also drain well, as well as retain moisture. The best type of fertilizer for peppers is compost. You can as well conduct a soil test before adding fertilizer to the soil.

    Pepper and Herb Fertilizer 11-11-40 Powder 100% Water Soluble

    Do Pepper Plants Grow Back Every Year?

    For example, if the test shows that the soil is lacking in phosphorus, a fertilizer with phosphorus can be added to the soil. Otherwise, if the reverse is the case, there will be no need to add phosphorus to the soil. Another thing is that you need to be cautious when adding nitrogen to the soil as too much nitrogen can make the plant produce large foliage.

    Read more about Can Compost Worms Survive Winter?

    3.    Availability of sunlight and water

    For a successfully grown pepper plant, full sunlight of about six to eight hours must be available to the plants. Or rather, provide a grow light and make sure the soil temperature is constantly around 80 degrees Fahrenheit if you’re starting your pepper seeds indoors.

    Pepper plants also need constant thorough moisture. This can be achieved by not letting the soil become dry. You can encourage healthy root development by watering deeply. Too much watering may not be required during rainy seasons.

    And if you’re growing your pepper plants in sandy soil, watering will be needed more frequently. This is because, unlike loam or clay, sand cannot retain moisture.

    4.    Prepare your plants before overwintering

    It is better to plant your pepper in pots or portable raised beds if you’re planning to save them for another year.

    You can also re-transplant mature plants that were planted directly in the ground. However, re-transplanting pepper plants may lead to damaging the plants’ roots badly if you’re not careful.

    Prepare Your Plants Before Overwintering

    5.    Move pepper plants indoors

    Peppers can’t tolerate frost; hence the temperature doesn’t need to become freezing cold before they begin to die off. When the temperature constantly dips low to around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit, move them indoors.

    It doesn’t even have to be inside the house. It could be a secluded spot or covered place that can shield the plants from the chilly temperatures.

    So, when the sunlight your plants usually receive per day doesn’t stay constant at six to eight hours anymore, it indicates that your pepper plants should be moved indoors.

    Also, when you move them indoors during frost, you can use a heating pad under your pot to provide heat.

    Check out When To Harvest Broccolini – The Best Time

    Perennial Pepper Plants: Cold-Hardy Pepper Varieties

    There are cold-resistant pepper varieties, early maturers, and those that can adapt to many conditions.

    So, choosing any of these types of varieties will also help increase your chances of being successful at overwintering and growing back every year. Gardeners in the northern region will love the idea of planting these varieties, especially in regions where they have short growing seasons.

    There are also cold-tolerant varieties that can tolerate both cold and heat. You will also get to enjoy most of the cold-tolerant varieties because they are either mild or sweet.

    So, examples of cold-tolerant pepper varieties are Ratund, Highlander, Chile peppers, Carmen, Ace, and Obriy.

    Do Capsicum Plants Regrow?

    You may be curious as to whether capsicum plants regrow, like other types of peppers. And the simple answer is: yes they do. It just requires both time and cares to ensure their regrowth. Let’s take a closer look at some top tips to ensure they make it through the winter.

    • As soon as you notice the temperatures plummeting, you should place some hay bales around your plants, and ensure the plants are the same height.
    • You’ll also need to remove any peppers from the plants too. At this point, you can cover the plants and bales with a layer of glass.
    • When the frost is predicted, you may also want to cover it with a sheet, for an extra layer of protection.
    • Check that your soil is moist enough, and water when needed.
    • Once the weather begins to warm up, you can remove the glass, and then remove the hay bales once Spring hits. At this point, your capsicum is ready to regrow!

    How Long Will a Pepper Plant Live?

    When it comes to pepper plants, a range of factors can affect how long they’ll live. However, the average life span is around 3-5 years.

    Some factors you’ll need to consider when extending the life of your pepper plant are as follows:

    • Environment. The environment is the main factor. The more consistent the environment, the more likely your pepper plant will have a longer life. In fact, pepper plants have been known to last up to ten years when cared for adequately indoors. Your plants can last many years if grown outdoors too. However, you need to ensure they’re overwintered. If not, they will likely die before the next growing season.
    • Plant species. Some species of pepper will survive longer than others, as it’s just part of their nature. For example, Rocoto and Manzano peppers are both varieties that have a long life expectancy.

    How Tall Do Pepper Plants Grow?

    Unfortunately, there is no set height that your pepper plants will grow, because it all depends on the variety of pepper that you’re growing. For example, some may grow to only 20 inches in height, whereas others can grow up to 6 feet in height. It’s important to research the type of pepper you’re choosing to grow before you plant it.

    How to Overwinter Pepper Plants

    If you’re looking for a quick guide to overwinter pepper plants, then look no further. Let’s take a closer look.

    • Add soil to your new pot; around 1-2 inches.
    • Bring your pepper plant indoors and remove any remaining peppers. You’ll also need to prune the plant.
    • Remove all leaves from your plant, as well as the root ball.
    • Use scissors to trim the roots and then place them in your fresh soil.
    • Water thoroughly and place in a warm area, where the sunlight reaches.
    • Monitor and prune weekly until the growing season comes around.

    When to Overwinter Peppers

    The best time to start overwintering peppers is before the first frost. You should never let the temperature of your pepper plants go below freezing, as they are unlikely to survive.

    Will Pepper Plants Come Back After Winter?

    Yes. As long as extra precautions and care are taken with your pepper plants, they absolutely can come back after winter. And are likely to give you peppers for years to come!

    pepper plants come back after winter

    Conclusion: Do Pepper Plants Come Back?

    To conclude answer your question; do pepper plants come back? Be rest assured that even if pepper plants are grown as annuals in most regions, you can successfully grow them as perennials.

    Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to ensuring that your pepper plants come back every year? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring! 

    FAQs

    How do I save pepper plants for next year?

    You can save your pepper for the next year by supplying adequate growing conditions to your pepper plants. Pepper is naturally a perennial crop so it’s possible to grow them for the following year.

    How many years can pepper plants live?

    The duration pepper plant can live is between 1.5 years to 3 years. So, this shows that pepper plants are perennials if you provide them with the right growing conditions to live through another year.

    Will pepper plants come back after winter?

    If you expose your pepper plant to chilly temperatures, they may not survive. So, your pepper plant may not come back after winter. This is why you need to shelter your pepper plant if you want them to overwinter.

  • Disease Resistant Tomatoes: Top List of Varieties

    Disease Resistant Tomatoes: Top List of Varieties

    Tomato plants can be prone to a bunch of unimaginable problems or diseases capable of taking a toll on the entire crop. The good news is that you can avoid the various problems or diseases that tomato plants tend to be susceptible to. This is why we will be looking into disease resistant tomatoes.

    There are over 60 different diseases tomato plants are inclined to catch. With so many unpleasant diseases tomatoes tend to be prone to, it is only right you select the best varieties that can be resistant to most of these various tomato-related diseases.

    Diseases-resistant tomatoes have been selected and bred for years to resist some common diseases they tend to be vulnerable to. So, let’s look into the list of disease-resistant tomatoes we can go for when planning on growing our juicy tomatoes.

    Selecting Disease Resistant Tomatoes

    Even though you can take some measures to manage these diseases such as crop rotations, drip irrigation, sterilization of garden tools, and so on, all these will only control these issues to a limited range. The key to decreasing the issue of tomato disease relies mainly on choosing disease-resistant tomatoes. 

    The selection of disease-resistant tomatoes has helped a lot in reducing the risk of tomatoes being vulnerable to different diseases. However, this does not guarantee the total immunity of tomatoes to all kinds of diseases. Of all these diseases resistant varieties, no single tomato variety resistant to all diseases has been developed yet. For this reason, when choosing tomato disease-resistant varieties, we recommend you select the ones applicable to your garden.

    Selecting Disease Resistant Tomatoes

    For instance, a particular tomato breed may thrive or flourish in your garden. On the other hand, this same tomato variety may end up catching a tomato-related disease from another gardener two states away. Therefore, if verticillium wilt or tobacco mosaic virus was once a problem in your garden region in the past years, it is only ideal to choose the tomato variety resistant to this disease.

    Disease Resistant Tomatoes 

    Each variety of tomato resistance is mainly resistant to some or most tomato diseases. However, they aren’t resistant to all types of tomato-related diseases.

    When you purchase your disease-resistant tomato seeds varieties, the seed packets or seed labeling often has some abbreviations. These abbreviations or letters mark the disease-resistant variety for that specific tomato breed. Therefore, it’s important to read these abbreviations right so you can know which varieties you are purchasing.

    Understanding codes for disease resistant tomatoes 

    Here is a list of some of the most common disease-resistant tomato variety codes you may find and their meaning:

    1. AB – Alternarium Blight
    2. EB – Early Blight
    3. F – Fusarium wilt
    4. FF – Fusarium races 1 and 2
    5. FFF – Fusarium races 1, 2, and 3
    6. N – Nematode
    7. PM – Powdery Mildew
    8. T or TMV –Tobacco Mosaic Virus
    9. TSWV – Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
    10. V – Verticillium wilt

    Burpee ‘Mountain Magic’ Hybrid | Red Cocktail & Salad Tomato | Disease Resistant | 12 Seeds

    614VpzB6KTL. AC SL1200

    Apart from these codes, other codes such as HR or IR may as well be written next to the codes. HR means High Resistance and IR means Intermediate Resistance.

    Multiple letters seen in a tomato disease-resistant variety name means the tomato is resistant to more than one disease.

    • So now that we have an idea of some codes you may come across, let’s look at an example. If you come across a seed labeled VFNT, it simply means that the seed has been bred to resist verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt, nematode, and tobacco mosaic virus.

    In all this, keep in mind that the label you find on the seed package is simply an indicator. The performance of a specific tomato variety will depend on various factors such as rainfall, soil content, environment, and plant care.

    Choosing the Right Tomato Breed for Your Garden

    A type of tomato variety may thrive well in your garden and this same variety may not do well for someone else in another state.

    This is majorly due to different climates and different soil that produce different patterns for the same tomato variety. Even those regions with slight variations in climate (temperature, rainfall, and air quality) can still cause the same tomato variety to flourish differently for different regions.

    For instance, Septoria leaf spot and early blight are tomato-related diseases that tend to progress or thrive in humid regions such as the eastern United States. Therefore, if you live in these regions, it would be wise to select tomato varieties that are resistant to early blight and Septoria leaf spots.

    Guidelines for Choosing Tomato Breed

    The guidelines below will assist you further on how to find out and select which tomato variety best suits your region:

    1. Recognize the vulnerability your region tends to face – The first important step is to discern which tomato diseases are common in your region. You can do some findings by asking your local nursery owner or having a chat with your local gardeners. You can also put a call through to your local extension office to know which tomato diseases are frequently recorded by local gardeners.
    1. Understand resistant code on the seed package – It’s also important you learn what codes are written on the seed package. We’ve given you some tips above to understand codes you may find on the seed package.

    2. Choose the best that suits your region – At the end of it all, ensure you choose the best tomato variety that suits your region.

    Which Tomato Breed is the Hardiest?

    Here is a list of some of the best tomato varieties resistant you can go for:

    • Bush big boy
    • Bush early girl
    • Sweet tangerine
    • Fourth of July
    • Big beef
    • Celebrity
    • Umamin
    • Super tasty
    • Big daddy
    • Summer girl
    Choose The Best That Suits Your Region

    All of these varieties will resist the most common tomato diseases. That includes nematode, verticillium, fusarium, and tobacco mosaic virus.

    Additional Say on Disease Resistant Tomatoes

    Knowing a great list of tomato-resistant varieties isn’t just enough. Even after you’ve purchased a hardy tomato breed that can sufficiently avoid these diseases, you need to also imbibe some measures so your plant can flourish.

    Here are some preventive measures to take:

    • Crop rotation.
    • If you’ve worked on any diseased plant, ensure you disinfect your gardening tools.
    • Water at the base of the plant.
    • Maintain moisture conditions and avoid wet and humid conditions that may entertain diseases.
    • Mulch your soil.

    Tomato Seeds Resistant to Blight

    Before we look at varieties that are resistant to blight, we must first identify what blight is. You may know blight better as late blight, tomato blight, or potato blight. It unfortunately can cause catastrophic problems for your tomatoes. It’s a fungal disease that will quickly lead tomatoes to rot and die. The more humid the environment, the more likely this is to happen.

    Some of the most common seeds resistant to blight are as follows:

    • Blush beefsteak F1. It’s sweet and juicy, which is unusual for a beefsteak tomato. This tomato usually fruits between July and October, and the best thing about it is that it’s incredibly resistant to blight.
    • Crimson cherry F1. A sweet but tangy tomato that’s small in size. It’s best at preventing late and early blight. It has an outstanding yield and will continue to fruit until the first frost begins.
    • Crimson plum F1. If you’re looking to make an incredible Bolognese or ragu, this is the tomato choice for you. It doesn’t contain many seeds and has a rich flavor. This tomato usually fruits between July and October.
    • Crimson crush F1. Flavorful and fantastic tasting. Even if other plants have blight, the Crimson Crush is hardy enough to not be affected.

    Fusarium Wilt Resistant Tomato Varieties

    If you’re looking for tomato varieties that are resistant to fusarium wilt, then look no further! You should try one of the following options:

    • Porterhouse
    • Sungold
    • Yellow Pear
    • Big Daddy
    • Rutgers
    • Summer Girl
    • Super Sauce

    Bacterial Wilt Resistant Tomato Varieties

    If you’re looking for tomato varieties that are resistant to bacterial wilt, then look no further! You should try one of the following options:

    • Tropic Bay
    • Venus
    • Neptune
    • Saturn
    • Kewalo

    Tomato varieties

    Disease Resistant Heirloom Tomatoes

    If you’re looking for heirloom tomato varieties that are disease resistant, there are many to choose from. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best.

    • Cherokee Purple: resistant to bacterial speck, fusarium wilt 1, 2, and 3, tomato spotted wilt virus, verticillium wilt, and root-knot nematode
    • Black Velvet F1: disorder resistant
    • Caiman F1: resistant to fusarium wilt 1 and 2, tobacco mosaic virus, verticillium wilt, tomato spotted wilt virus, tomato leaf mold, and root-knot nematode
    • Fargo Yellow Pear: disorder resistant
    • Delicious: disorder resistant
    • Damsel F1: resistant to root-knot nematode, late blight, and verticillium wilt
    • Aosta Valley: resistant to early and late blight
    • Green Zebra: resistant to Septoria leaf spot and late blight
    • Legend: resistant to late blight
    • Chocolate Sprinkles: resistant to fusarium wilt 1, fusarium crown rot, tobacco mosaic virus, and root-knot nematode
    • Garden Peach: resistant to late blight
    • Cauralina F1: resistant to fusarium wilt, fusarium crown root, and tomato mosaic virus
    • Italian Heirloom: resistant to late blight
    • Marglobe: resistant to fusarium wilt 1 and 2
    • Chiapas: resistant to early and late blight, and Septoria leaf spot
    • Mt. Gold: resistant to fusarium wilt 1 and 2
    • Grandma’s Pick F1: resistant to verticillium wilt, root-knot nematode, and fusarium wilt 1
    • New Yorker: resistant to verticillium wilt
    • Mt. Rouge: resistant to root-knot nematode and late blight
    • Marbonne F1: resistant to tomato mosaic virus and fusarium wilt

    Conclusion

    I hope this post has helped you to identify the best disease-resistant tomatoes, as well as how best to find the right variety for you. It’s getting easier and easier to grow disease-resistant tomatoes; just be sure to check the abbreviations on any tomato seeds that you buy. Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to disease-resistant tomatoes? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!

    FAQs

    Which tomato variety is resistant to blight?

    Mountain Magic F1 (Medium) is resistant to blight.

    If you see symptoms of bacterial blight on your tomato plants, remove them by cutting the stems at the base of the plant. Make sure to wash your hands after removing the infected parts so you don’t spread the bacteria around. If you see the bacteria on the leaves, you can spray them with a mixture of water and bleach to kill the bacteria.

    Which tomato variety is resistant to bacterial wilt?

    The best known varieties are “Green Zebras” and “Roma”. There are also a number of hybrids that have been bred for this resistance.

    If you see any signs of Verticillium wilt, you should remove the plants from the soil as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If you are unable to remove the plants from the ground, you can treat the soil with a fungicide such as copper or sulfur to prevent the disease from spreading.

    Are cherry tomatoes disease resistant?

    Cherry tomatoes are a great choice for any gardener looking to add a little variety to their vegetable garden. Liike most other types of tomatoes, cherry tomatoes are susceptible to various diseases.

    However, they are resistant to a wide variety of diseases, and in some cases the resistance is due to the plant’s own immune system.

    Are heirloom tomatoes disease-resistant?

    Heirloom tomatoes are not resistant to the major diseases that affect tomato crops, but they can be used as a food source when combined with other plants and insects that provide natural pest control. The best way to prevent diseases is by growing tomatoes in a healthy garden environment that includes annuals and perennials, mulching, regular watering and harvesting regularly.

    How do you know if bacteria is wilting of tomatoes?

    The first thing to check is whether or not the plant has any signs of disease.
    There are a number of ways to tell. One of the most reliable is the color of the tomato. If it’s dark green, it’s probably ok. If it’s light green, it may be starting to decay. If it’s yellow or brown, it’s most likely too far gone. Another way is to press your thumb on the stem of the tomato and see how it feels. If it’s waxy, it’s ok. If it’s dry and hard, it’s dead.
    You can look at the underside of the leaves. If the leaves have turned yellow, this is a sign of bacterial wilt.

    What is the hardiest tomato plant?

    A tomato plant can be grown in almost any location, but it’s important to choose a site that offers the proper amount of sunlight. Tomatoes are a warm-weather crop, so they need lots of sun. They also like plenty of water, so make sure that you water regularly and give the leaves a good soaking once or twice a week. If you have a big enough garden space, tomatoes are the perfect addition to any vegetable garden.
    There are many varieties of tomatoes, and many are very different in hardiness. We have found that the most hardy tomato is

  • Do Tomato Hornworms Bite: Best Ways to Control

    Do Tomato Hornworms Bite: Best Ways to Control

    Tomato worms are one common pest that bothers tomato plants and they can ruin your plants. They may look fierce and dangerous, but do tomato hornworms bite?

    The huge green tomato worm can grow up to 4 or 5 inches long and they are one of the longest types of caterpillar. There is nothing more devastating than finding tomato worms in your garden feeding on your sweet tomato fruits.

    The fact that the tomato worm has a stinger-like horn shape, some may be scared of them. So, if you’ve got tomato worms in your garden and you’re wondering if they bite then you should read on to know the answer to this. We will also discuss what you can do to get rid of these troubling worms.

    What Are Tomato Worms?

    Tomato worms, also known as hornworms are huge caterpillars that have a tail that looks like a horn. They love to chew on tomatoes, meaning tomato is their favorite food. They not only enjoy fruits, but they can also feed on plant leaves as well as their stems. These worms will eat plant leaves and can render your plant leafless.

    Tomato worms will as well feast on other plant’s fruits such as eggplant, pepper, potato, and tobacco plants.

    Do Tomato Hornworms Bite?

    Even though these worms may look scary and savage, they are not stingers. Therefore tomato worms do not bite. They are harmless to humans and you can even pick them up off your plants anytime you sight them.

    What Are Tomato Worms

    Where Do Tomato Worms Come From?

    Tomato worms come from eggs laid by the adult moth. These moths are huge heavy-bodied insects that have narrow front wings. They are gray-brown and can have yellow spots on their abdomen.

    Life cycle

    The tomato worm life cycle begins as eggs are laid by the adult moths. These eggs are laid by the female after mating around summer and the eggs are laid on the host such as tomato, pepper, eggplant, etc. The eggs are oval and smooth with a light green color.

    Next, the eggs hatch into caterpillars and the caterpillars are the worms that begin to feed and grow. The caterpillars can feed up until late summer or early fall.

    Once they begin to feed and grow, in about 3 to 4 weeks, they become matured green caterpillars. This matured caterpillar will drop from the plants they are feeding into the soil and burrow into the soil. In the soil, they will change or transform into pupae. The pupae will stay in the soil and thrive through winter.

    After surviving through winter, the pupae will emerge as adult moths during spring. Then the moths start another generation around mid-summer by depositing their eggs on their host plant.

    Identifying Caterpillar on Tomato Plant

    The tomato worm caterpillars may be hard to notice because they are green and can blend with your green plants. But once you notice any caterpillar of about 4 to 5 inches of green color and horn-like shape on your plant, then that’s a sign of tomato worm infestation. You need to act fast. If you delay any longer, they will continue to spread causing even bigger problems.

    They are capable of devouring your plant leaves and causing serious damage a night. Once they grow bigger and older, they consume more and more. Those fully matured tomato caterpillars can consume a lot at that stage.

    So, because of their green camouflaging color, you may not notice them on time. However, you should look closely and also look for droppings and follow the trail.

    You can as well identify these worms with black lights. Once it gets dark, scrutinize your plant with the black lights. Tomato worms usually come out in the dark to feed and they will glow in the dark.

    Let’s take a look at some control measures we can take to mitigate the situation.

    Controlling Tomato Worms

    There are various methods of getting rid of tomato worms and they include:

    • Handpicking

    Tomato worms will not bite you so you can simply handpick them when you notice them in your garden. This process may take a while, but it’s totally worth it as you will be saving your plants.

    After handpicking them, you can simply drop them in hot soapy water to kill them. You can as well feed them to your chicken or any birds if you raise them.

    • Spray the plant with soap and water

    Another natural way to get rid of these worms is to spray them with liquid dish soap mixed with water. Spray your entire plant and worms until they are all covered. Doing this should eliminate them without causing any havoc to your plants.

    • Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT)

    If the two natural methods we mentioned above don’t work, you can go for natural pesticides. It is safe to use on your plant and also safe for humans. Bacillus thuringiensis is a natural bacteria found in soil. The worm consumes these bacteria and its digestive system becomes paralyzed and it will eventually die.

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    • Beneficial insects

    Beneficial insects can as well be used to control tomato worms. However, they can only work for a small population. Examples of these beneficial insects are ladybugs, lacewings, paper wasps, and so on. You can obtain these beneficial insects online or from your local garden stores.

    • Chemical insecticides

    Chemical insecticides can be used to control these worms. However, they may not be safe for your organic garden. Notwithstanding, there are good options such as sevin insecticides which are non-systematic. This means they will not penetrate plant tissues and you can simply wash them off after their job is done.

    Signs of Tomato Worms Infestation

    When you begin to notice your plant leaves having holes or becoming wilted, then you need to have a close inspection of your plant.

    You may also notice droppings of these worms on your tomato leaves or the ground. Also, if there are any green caterpillars around your plants, that may be a sign of tomato worm infestation.

    Signs Of Tomato Worms Infestation

    Are Tomato Worms Poisonous?

    Now that we know that tomato worms do not bite humans, you may be wondering if they are poisonous. You can safely touch tomato hornworms without being concerned about them biting, stinging, or being poisonous. However, you should never ingest these worms. If they are ingested, they may be toxic as tomatoes are part of the nightshade family and these worms remove the toxins from the plant. It’s important to seek medical advice if this happens.

    What is the Best Tomato Worm Killer?

    When killing tomato hornworms, it’s best to use a low-risk pesticide. There are many low-risk pesticides you can use. But some of my personal favorites are Spinosad, insecticidal soap, or Bacillus thuringiensis. Let’s take a closer look at all three.

    • Spinosad. It’s derived from a natural microorganism. Can kill tomato hornworms through contact, or ingestion. However, ingestion is the most effective. You’ll notice the effects within one to two weeks. Be sure you keep a watchful eye on it until it’s dried, as it can be harmful to bees.
    • Insecticidal soap. This doesn’t need to be ingested; contact is enough, but it must be direct. It’s effective against hornworms and what’s great about this is that it isn’t harmful to good insects.
    • Bacillus Thuringiensis. A bacteria that derive from the soil. Contact is not enough for this pesticide, it must be consumed by the tomato hornworms. The younger the caterpillars, the more effective this method will be. This method is ideal if you’re looking to protect bees and insects.

    Can a Tomato Hornworm Sting?

    If you take a close look at the tomato hornworm, they are quite terrifying. They look as though they could be dangerous, but as well as not being poisonous, and not being able to bite, they also can not sting you. Apart from being harmful to your garden, they can’t cause any damage to humans whatsoever! They’re nowhere near as scary as they first appear.

    Can Bearded Dragons Eat Hornworms?

    Bearded dragons have a very versatile diet, and you may be wondering if you can feed them hornworms. And the answer is, absolutely. However, it’s best to buy the hornworms from a reputable store. Hornworms are used as food for many reptiles besides bearded dragons, such as geckos and chameleons.

    Hornworms are easy for your bearded dragons to digest, as well as being a great source of calcium and hydration.Where Do Tomato Worms Come From

    Are Tomato Hornworms Poisonous to Dogs?

    We’ve mentioned that tomato hornworms can cause problems if ingested by humans, and the same can be said if ingested by your pets. Tomato hornworms can be poisonous to your dogs, so it’s important to seek veterinary advice if you think your dog has swallowed any.

    Conclusion: Do Tomato Hornworms Bite?

    Tomato worms may look fierce and dangerous but they do not bite humans. However, the damage they will do to your plants can be very serious. Ensure you monitor your plants closely, especially their favorite plants which are tomato, pepper, eggplants, and tobacco plants.

    I hope this post has helped to answer the question: “do tomato hornworms bite?” and given you an idea of how to prevent and control them if you do manage to get an infestation. While they can be a nuisance to your garden, it’s a super easy problem to resolve. Do you have any tips and tricks when it comes to removing hornworms? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!

    FAQs

    Do hornworms bite humans?

    Hornworms are not harmful to humans. However, they can cause damage to plants. The eggs and larvae are very destructive. They eat grass, soil, and roots. They can also kill plants.

    A hornworm may bite if it feels threatened or cornered. They also may bite if they are hungry. If they are hungry, they may be trying to feed on the roots of a plant.

    The most common cause of a hornworm bite is in the spring. The adults are out looking for food and the young ones are out looking for mates.

    Are green hornworms poisonous?

    Some people think that the green hornworm is poisonous because it tastes bad, and they won’t eat it. Others think that the green hornworm is poisonous because it has a very hard exoskeleton which doesn’t easily break down in the stomach.
    But, they are not.

    Where do tomato hornworms go during the day?

    Tomato hornworm caterpillars are active during the day, and they may be feeding on leaves or other parts of plants. If you find a large number of them, try to see where they are hiding. Look for places where they might have access to foliage and leaves. You can also check under shrubs and trees for signs of feeding. Hornworms will leave a silken web on their food source. You can also look for frass, or insect droppings.

    Tomato hornworms (Manduca sexta) are large, dark-colored caterpillars with a horn on their head and antennae. They feed on the leaves of tomatoes and other nightshade plants like eggplant and peppers. Hornworm larvae chew holes in plant leaves to feed on sap and then pupate. When they emerge as adults, they’ll feed on foliage until they reach maturity.

    How do you prevent tomato worms?

    Tomato worms are not a problem for everyone. I can’t say that I have ever had problems with them, but when I did, I didn’t know what to do about it. So I want to share some tips on how to get rid of tomato worms in your garden. Tomato Worms – What are they? A common pest for tomatoes, the tomato worm is a small insect, which can be up to 2 inches long.
    They are most often seen in the garden when the temperatures are warm and humid. You may see them crawling around the base of plants, or laying eggs in the soil. How do you get rid of them? The best way to prevent tomato worm damage is to pick off any infested leaves, and destroy the eggs in the soil. Another good method is to grow plants in containers, so that you can take them out of the garden if they begin to appear. If you do need to control these pests, the easiest solution is to use a systemic pesticide. These products work by killing the pest from the roots down, which will help reduce any future problems. This is one of the best ways to prevent tomato worms, and many other plant pests.

  • What Do Bluegill Eat: Best Diet to Follow & Facts

    What Do Bluegill Eat: Best Diet to Follow & Facts

    Do you have bluegill in your aquarium and you’re wondering what do bluegill eat? We will let you know in this post.

    Generally, various fish needs special care no matter the type of fish you choose to raise. It is pretty easy to care for various fish, especially the bluegill, as they require you to provide them basic care such as clean water, good space, as well as fish feed.

    Bluegill fish will feed on a whole lot of things, so read on to discover what do bluegill eat. 

    Facts About Bluegill Fish

    Bluegill fish are long-bodied freshwater sunfish. They are native to North America and they dwell mostly in lakes, rivers, and ponds. Bluegill fish are one common loving fish raised among aquarium hobbyists.

    They are quite friendly fish to have in your home aquarium and they possess some fascinating habits you would love to witness. Habits like doing hide and seek from predators by taking cover at the back of any covering or shield in your aquarium.

    Info About Bluegill Fish: What To Feed Bluegill In An Aquarium

    They can grow up to 2kg to 2.5 kg in weight. Bluegill can also grow as long as 12 inches or more. They can live up to 4 or 6 years.

    Read more about How to Raise Catfish in A Tank

    What Do Bluegill Eat?

    Bluegill fish are carnivores. This implies they are capable of feeding on other little types of fish or small animals. So, here is what you can feed your bluegill fish in your aquarium:

    1.    Minnows

    One common little fish to feed your bluefish is a minnow. Minnows are normally dropped around feeding time in the aquarium and the bluegill fish goes hunting them. You can trim the minnow’s tail and not worry about shedding blood in your aquarium. Trimming is done so they won’t be able to swim and it will be easier for your bluegill fish to catch and feed on them.

    2.    Shiner fish

    Shiner fishes are little fish you can feed your bluegill with. Their size is about 2 to 3 inches which makes them perfect for feeding matured bluegill fish. You can purchase them from bait shops and they are also used as bait for capturing bluegill fish in the wild.

    3.    Shad fish

    Shad fish are tiny and they can be fed to bluegill fish. Although they might be scarce to find, they can be added to the list of food to feed bluegill.

    4.    Baitfish

    The baitfish are primarily used in the wild for catching bluegill fish from their natural habitat. Bluegill enjoys feeding on baitfish; especially the bigger-sized bluegill fish. Most bluegill keepers prefer feeding them with baitfish because they are readily available in pet shops. They are also not so pricey.

    5.    Suckerfish

    Little fish like the sucker is also included in the food for your bluegill fish. This slender cylindrical-bodied fish is one of the bluegill favorites and they will enjoy feeding on these little fishes.

    6.    Larvae & insects

    Larvae and insects are not left out of the various kinds of food you can feed your bluegill. As we mentioned earlier, bluegill fish feast on little animals such as larvae and insects. Examples are crickets, grasshoppers, and mealworms. If you wish to lure bluegill to the surface in their wild natural habitat, insects are best used as bait.

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    7.    Water insects

    Another food you can feed your bluegill is water insects they are rich in nutrients for your fish. They will feed on insect larvae, mosquito larvae, any eggs laid in water, and even water bugs.

    8.    Crustacean

    Crustaceans such as small freshwater shrimps and small crayfish are not left out of food to feed your bluegill fish. They can be purchased easily from fish or feed shops.

    9.    Zooplankton

    It is the young bluegill fish that mostly feed on zooplankton and this also supplies them with adequate nutrients to grow.

    10. Fish pellets & dried worms

    Bluegill fish will also feed on dried worms and fish pellets. They are cheap and available in fish or feed shops.

    Other bluegill foods you can also add to your fish feed are terrestrial insects and water insects.

    Stocking Density for Bluegill in an Aquarium

    Bluegill fish requires adequate spacing. Therefore, they can take up to 50 to 70 gallons of water. The required pH should fall around 6.8 to 7.2. Bluegill fish can also live along with tank mates of other species of fish. 

    Stocking Density For Bluegill In An Aquarium

    Additional Note: What to Feed Bluegill in an Aquarium

    When feeding your aquarium bluegill, you will need to monitor them. You should feed them during the day and the feeding session should be short (about 15 seconds). Also. try not to overfeed them as this could lead to your tank being polluted. Remove any leftover food and readjust the feeding portion the next time.

    What to Feed Baby Bluegill?

    You may be wondering what the best food is to feed your baby bluegills. Let’s take a closer look at what you should include in their diet. Bluegills eat both other animals and plants. You can expect them to enjoy foods such as plants, insects, and other small fish or insects.

    You may want to consider adding the following to your tank for your bluegills: bloodworms and baby brine shrimp. They’ll also enjoy fish flakes, pellets, or even frozen food such as krill. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, fish flakes are a great starting point. However, you must offer other foods to ensure they’re getting a balanced diet.

    When Do Bluegill Spawn?

    You may be curious as to when bluegill spawns. This usually takes place in June, but it can happen anytime from May to August. You should ensure that have you your gravel in the tank so that the bluegills can make a nest. It’s also important to keep the temperature of the aquarium between 68-80F.

    How Fast Does Bluegill Grow?

    How quickly bluegills grow depends on a variety of aspects. Such as the type of bluegill, how healthy and active they are, and also the size of the area they’re kept in. However, some estimations can be made. Bluegills can take up to five years before they’ve fully matured. However, if they’re in a large area of water, they may not stop growing!

    After around a year, it should be around 4-6 inches in length. After two years of age, it should be around 6-8 inches in length. After three years of age, it should be around 8-8.8 inches in length. After four years of age, it should be around 8.8-9.4 inches in length. After five years of age, it should be around 10 inches in length.

    Typically, in the wild, bluegill lives for around 5-6 years. However, their lifespan can double if they’re kept in captivity. It’s also worth noting that where the growing season is longer, due to warmer weather, bluegill will grow more quickly.

    Bluegill Temperature Range

    Bluegill fish are tolerant to many temperatures, which is why they’re a great fish to have. They can tolerate temperatures as high as 95F! However, for your bluegills to thrive and grow to a good, healthy size, the tank should be kept between 68-80F, for best results.

    blugill fish

    Do Hybrid Bluegill Reproduce?

    You may have heard that the hybrid bluegill can not reproduce. However, this is not the case! While it’s more often for them to be sterile than not, they can sometimes still reproduce. What’s most interesting about when hybrid bluegills reproduce is that the offspring will be one of two species: the bluegill, or green sunfish.

    Conclusion: What Do Bluegill Eat?

    I hope this post has helped to answer the question “what do bluegill eat?” and given you an idea of what diet is best to ensure your bluegill fish are thriving. Do you have any tips and tricks when it comes to supplying your bluegill with the best diet? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!

    FAQs

    What do Bluegill fish eat?

    The diet of a fish can be a very important part of its life. Some fish are carnivores; others are omnivores; and some are herbivores. In addition to the food they eat, the diet of each fish species is affected by the type of water it lives in and its size. The food in a fish’s diet may change throughout its life. For example, when a fish reaches sexual maturity, it may begin eating a different diet than it did before that time.

    A bluegill’s diet is based on the foods that are found in a natural environment.

    The food of choice for bluegills in an aquarium is a mix of pellets and live foods, according to the University of Michigan. Pellets are made up of ground fish meal, fish oil, corn and other ingredients that help grow the fish, while live foods include small invertebrates like shrimp, mosquito larvae and daphnia. Live foods may also be available as frozen or canned items.

    They will eat any pellet food available, and they are not picky about what kind of food they eat. Pellets are also easier to handle for the fish than flakes. Flake food is more expensive than pellets and has a longer shelf life. You can get the same nutrients in a smaller amount from pellets.

    Do they eat a lot?

    Yes they do, and you should definitely consider feeding them a pretty broad diet so the they may get all the nutrients that they need.

    They are a bit like a catfish in that they have a very strong, aggressive bite.

    If you don’t want them to die, try feeding them meat chunks (cat, dog, rabbit, etc). A popular food for them in tanks are frozen bloodworms.

    What are the best kind of pellets for them?

    The most commonly recommended food for bluegills in an aquarium is the algae-based “semi-pellet” diet, which contains protein, vitamins and minerals. Other foods include small pieces of shrimp or other crustaceans and live plants. Bluegills are bottom-feeding fish that eat primarily algae, insects and other plant material.

    Can they feed alongside other fish?

    They can be kept with other types of fish such as catfish and sunfish. Diet Bluegills feed on microalgae (sometimes called “semi-pellets”) and small organisms such as worms, insect larvae, mollusks, and detritus. These organisms are found in the water column. Bluegills also eat zooplankton, the microscopic animals that drift through the water. Bluegills are omnivorous. They will eat both plant and animal matter. The preferred food is a diet of live algae and detritus (decaying plant and animal matter) found in the bottom of an aquarium.

  • Hydroponic Drip System: 5 Top Feed Picks

    Hydroponic Drip System: 5 Top Feed Picks

    How do you find excellent top-feed hydroponic drip system supplies? Look to our guide and you can find some nice recommendations and great tips for making an excellent choice. You will also find some useful information about top-feed drip system hydroponics.

    The top-feed drip hydroponics system is great for both small home-based and large commercial hydroponic setups. You get to have control over your hydroponics system with a top drip system. This system is also an excellent choice for a broad range of plants and herbs.

    So, let’s talk about the top-feed hydroponic drip system.

    What is a Hydroponic Drip System?

    When it comes to hydroponics, there is really no particular way or fixed way of building up a hydroponic system. The versatility of the system is what we admire. One of these various ways of setting up a hydroponic system is through the drip system.

    A hydroponic drip system exclusively makes use of drip emitters to directly feed your plants with nutrients and water. This system is not peculiar or unique to just hydroponics. A drip system has been and is still popularly used in outdoor garden irrigation to provide water to traditional plants. It has now been successfully modified to work with a hydroponics system.

    What is a Drip System for Hydroponics

    Also, the system is easy setup, especially for beginners. It only requires a couple of parts to set up at the same time providing an efficient hydroponic system.

    The most interesting advantage we admire about the drip hydroponics system is that it offers you control over your hydroponics garden. You can control the amount of water and nutrients you feed your hydroponic plants.

    The feed drip hydroponics system is most suitable for commercial growers. Therefore, among most hydroponic commercial growers, it is one of the best-loved hydroponic systems compared to other systems.

    Types of Hydroponic Drip Systems

    There are majorly two types of top-feed hydroponic drip systems. They are:

    Recovery or recirculating drip system


    It is commonly used by home-based growers. This type of system allows the recovery of excess nutrient solution back into the reservoir to be reused. The disadvantage is that as the nutrients are reused, there is a change in nutrient composition level and pH.

      The recirculating drip system will need to be monitored consistently to adjust the pH level and balance the nutrient solutions.

      Non-recovery or non-recirculating drip system

      Non-recirculating drip systems are mostly used by commercial growers. In the non-recovery drip system, nutrient solutions are not recovered. Even though it sounds wasteful, the fact is there is usually just a little waste.

        This is because as you time the flow for each cycle, you will have an idea of the number of nutrients used in a specified time. This allows growers to reduce or adjust the next amount of nutrient solution down to the watering time. Therefore, there is usually minimal run-off after each dripping time has elapsed.

        Read about Hydroponic Drip System Watering Schedule

        Materials Needed for Complete Top Drip Systems

        Below are the materials needed to set up a complete top-feed drip hydroponics system:

        • A reservoir container for nutrients
        • Flood tray
        • Drip emitters
        • Grow blocks or media
        • Plant supports e.g. stakes or trellis to support plant weight as they grow bigger
        • Rubber hose
        • Spaghetti lines, or drip lines, or feed lines
        • Air pump, air tubing, and air a stone
        • Submersible water pump
        • Timer
        • Rain-drip barbed connectors
        • PVC tube (to run lines from the plants to the reservoir)

        Everything We Recommend

        Product Image Product Name / Price Primary Button
        Our Pick
        • Hydroponic System, Growing System Kit 7 Bucket 5 Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture

        • N/A
        • Drip Irrigation System, Garden Watering System Kit,

        • N/A
        • RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System

        • $159.99
        Good for Beginners
        • LAWNFUL 4 Hydroponic Buckets Kit for Plants, Hydroponics Growing System

        • $99.99
        • MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        • N/A
        Our Pick

        Hydroponic System, Growing System Kit 7 Bucket 5 Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture

        N/A

        Drip Irrigation System, Garden Watering System Kit,

        N/A

        RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System

        $159.99
        Good for Beginners

        LAWNFUL 4 Hydroponic Buckets Kit for Plants, Hydroponics Growing System

        $99.99

        MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        N/A
        12/08/2025 04:04 am GMT

        5 Top Feed Drip Hydroponic System

        Below are the recommended top feed drip hydroponic systems.

        #1 Hydroponic System, 7 Bucket 5-Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture Kit: 

        The top-feed drip hydroponic system is a great solution for growing plants without soil. It uses a pump to deliver nutrient-rich water directly to the plant roots, ensuring efficient growth and healthy plants. This method is ideal for growing a wide variety of plants, including leafy greens and herbs, both indoors and outdoors.

        It’s a low-maintenance system that works well for beginners and experienced gardeners alike, providing a consistent supply of water and nutrients

        Hydroponic System, Growing System Kit 7 Bucket 5 Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture

        Hydroponic Growing Kit with Pump, Air Stone and Water Leveling Device for Indoor/Outdoor Leafy Ve…

        Pros:
        • Efficient Growth: Ideal for indoor/outdoor leafy vegetables with fast, consistent growth.
        • Recirculating System: Maintains water and nutrient levels, reducing waste.
        • Complete Kit: Includes pump, air stone, and water leveling device, so no extra purchases needed.
        • Large Capacity: 7 buckets, each 5 gallons, offering a significant growing area.
        Cons:
        • Setup Complexity: Some users may find initial assembly challenging.
        • Space Requirement: Requires a larger space due to its size
        Check Amazon Price
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        #2 RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System

        The RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics System is a high-efficiency hydroponic kit perfect for growing a wide range of plants. It features a recirculating deep water culture system that continuously feeds oxygen and nutrients to plant roots. With 4 buckets, a reservoir, a water pump, and a drip kit, it’s designed for those serious about indoor gardening.

        This setup helps plants grow faster and healthier, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced growers. It’s easy to maintain and works well for leafy greens and other crops. This system is excellent for serious growers aiming for high yields.

        RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System
        $159.99

        5 Gallon Hydroponics Growing System Kit with Water Pump, Air Pump(4 Bucket + Reservoir + Drip Kit…

        Pros:
        • Efficient Growth: Recirculating deep water culture (RDWC) provides a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients for faster plant growth.
        • Complete Kit: Includes water pump, air pump, 4 buckets, a reservoir, and a drip kit—everything you need to get started.
        • Minimal Maintenance: The recirculating system requires less frequent nutrient adjustments.
        Cons:
        • Setup Complexity: Initial installation can be tricky for beginners.
        • Space Requirement: Takes up a larger area due to multiple buckets
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        12/08/2025 04:04 am GMT

        # 3 MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        The MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kit is a versatile watering system designed for indoor gardens, lawns, and greenhouses. It features a 5-gallon bucket, 22W water pump, and 8 drip emitters, providing a reliable automatic watering solution.

        This kit is great for small to medium-sized indoor gardens.

        MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        For Indoor, Lawn, Greenhouse, Yard, 5-Gallon Bucket 22W Water Pump with 8 Drip Emitters

        Pros:
        • Automatic Watering: Ensures consistent hydration for plants, reducing manual labor.
        • Energy Efficient: The 22W pump consumes minimal electricity.
        • Versatile Use: Suitable for indoor, greenhouse, or lawn setups.
        Cons:
        • Limited to Small/Mid Gardens: May not be ideal for larger operations.
        • Pump Noise: Some users may find the pump noise noticeable.
        Check Amazon Price
        We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

        #4 Superponics-8 Hydroponic Plant Propagation Reservoir System


        The LAWNFUL 4 Hydroponic Buckets Kit offers a complete deep water culture (DWC) hydroponic system perfect for growing herbs, tomatoes, and vegetables indoors. It includes four 5-gallon buckets, an air pump, and a germination tray, allowing gardeners to start from seed and grow plants to maturity. The system delivers oxygen directly to the plant roots, promoting faster growth and healthier plants.

        With this kit, you get a reliable indoor gardening solution that supports multiple plants at once, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

        This kit is perfect for those looking to grow a variety of plants in a controlled indoor environment, offering high efficiency and versatility for small-scale hydroponic gardening.

        Hydroponic Buckets Kit for Plants, Hydroponics Growing System
        $99.99

        LAWNFUL 4  Hydroponic system for Herbs/Tomato/Vegetables, DWC System with Air Pump; Germinat…

        Pros:
        • Complete Hydroponic Solution: Includes air pump, buckets, and germination tray.
        • Multiple Buckets: Allows you to grow several plants at the same time.
        • Faster Growth: The DWC system boosts oxygen and nutrient uptake, resulting in quicker plant growth.
        Cons:
        • Space Requirement: Due to the size of the four buckets, you’ll need a decent amount of space indoors.
        • Assembly Complexity: Some beginners might find it challenging to set up the system at first.
        Check Amazon Price
        We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
        12/08/2025 04:03 am GMT

        #5 Garden Watering Irrigation System,100ft 3/8″ & 1/4″ Hose Micro Drip Kit, Hydroponics Supplies

        The garden watering irrigation systems provide excellent hydroponic supplies you can use to set up your top-feed drip hydroponics system. The Garden watering system package includes a hose micro drip, an adjustable automatic dripper for plant watering, a sprinkler system kit to fit into the plant’s roots and more.

        These garden drip hydroponic supplies are quite easy to put together with the use of the user manual for your guidance when installing.

        We admire the adjustable dripper that meets your various watering needs which also allows you total control of your drip system. It also comes with a universal faucet allowing you to connect any kind of faucet brand.

        These drip hydroponic supplies offer you a cool heat environment, especially for your outdoor garden. The tubing hose is of standard quality and has UV resistance and is made of chemical-resistant materials making it safe.

        Additionally, it comes with support stakes for your plants, and apart from a hydroponic garden, it is ideal for lawns, terraces, etc.

        The drawback it does not come with gallon pots or pumps, it only provides supplies to set up parts of your drip hydroponics system.

        Drip Irrigation System, Garden Watering System Kit,

        100ft 3/8" & 1/4" Irrigation Sprinkler System for Lawn Greenhouse, Auto…

        Pros:
        • Adjustable drippers for your plant’s watering needs.
        • Easy to set up with a user manual as a guide.
        • UV resistance and chemical resistance made materials.
        • Comes with sprinklers for each plant.
        Cons:
        • The tubing requires soaking in hot water.
        • Does not include gallon pots and pumps.
        Check Amazon Price
        We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

        How to Choose the Best Hydroponic Drip System

        The keys to picking the best hydroponic drip system include:

        1. Installation and operations: One of the things to consider when choosing your top feed drip system is installed. It must be easy to set up without any need for plumbing skills to make your installation comfortable.
        2. Operations: The top feed drip system must also be easy to operate so you can make your hydroponic experience easy and comfortable.
        3. Accommodation: Be aware of the type of plant size this drip feed system can accommodate. This will guide you in case you plan on planting small or large plants.

        Drip Hydro Nutrients Review: Worth It?

        You may be familiar with Drip Hydro, as it’s a popular product among budding growers. However, is it worth it? We found that it’s both easy to use and affordable, which makes it a great addition to any garden. It’s a liquid that’s full of nutrients such as CalMag. Adding this to your plants means your plants will thrive to the best of their ability.

        What is a Hydroponic Auto Feed System?

        A hydroponic auto-feed system is better known as an automatic dose system. This is simply a way to add controlled doses of substances such as chemicals and nutrients to your plants, to encourage their growth and health. Not only does it dose your plants for you, but it also monitors them too. It will measure aspects such as temperature and pH. Once it has gathered this knowledge, it’ll provide your plants with the support they need.

        What’s great about this kind of system is that you can set your own timers to dose and monitor your plants for you, as well as which nutrients to use.

        DIY Drip Hydroponic System

        Making your own hydroponic drip system couldn’t be easier! And it’s the most affordable option too. To make a top feed bucket drip system, you’ll need the following ingredients:

        • a suitable-sized container for whatever it is you’re growing
        • growing medium such as perlite or vermiculite
        • a pump
        • organic nutrient solution
        • an air stone

        You’ll be able to buy all of these at gardening centers, or from online stores such as Amazon.

        Now all you need to do is:

        1. Location. Pick the best space for your hydroponic drip system. This should be somewhere that has ample sunlight and ventilation.
        2. Choose Reservoir. Choose the size dependent on how many plants you’re looking to grow. You’ll then need to drill holes to accommodate your plants.
        3. Prepare Area. A plastic tray is more than good enough for your growing area. However, it can be more complex than this if you’d decide.
        4. Fill Reservoir. Use filtered water and nutrients to fill your reservoir until it reaches the desired level.
        5. Fill Grow Area. Add your growing media such as perlite or vermiculite to the growing area (such as your plastic tray). It should be moist, but not over-watered.
        6. Add Seeds. Plant your seeds into the growing area; ensuring it’s deep enough.
        7. Add Pump. There is no best pump for this, as long as it’s able to circulate water, this will do just fine! However, it must be big enough for the number of plants that you’re growing. Then set a timer for your pump.
        8. Add Tubing. Once everything is set up, add your tubing to your grow area.
        9. Place Air Stone. Add your air stone and your system is ready to go! Now all you need to do is turn the pump on.
        10. Monitor. It’s important to check on your hydroponic drip system regularly to ensure that your plants are thriving and receiving everything that they need.

        DIY Drip Hydroponic System

        Product Image Product Name / Price Primary Button
        Our Pick
        • Hydroponic System, Growing System Kit 7 Bucket 5 Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture

        • N/A
        • Drip Irrigation System, Garden Watering System Kit,

        • N/A
        • RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System

        • $159.99
        Good for Beginners
        • LAWNFUL 4 Hydroponic Buckets Kit for Plants, Hydroponics Growing System

        • $99.99
        • MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        • N/A
        Our Pick

        Hydroponic System, Growing System Kit 7 Bucket 5 Gallon Recirculating Deep Water Aquaculture

        N/A

        Drip Irrigation System, Garden Watering System Kit,

        N/A

        RDWC Top Feed Drip Hydroponics Systems, Recirculating Deep Water Culture Hydroponic Bucket System

        $159.99
        Good for Beginners

        LAWNFUL 4 Hydroponic Buckets Kit for Plants, Hydroponics Growing System

        $99.99

        MARS HYDRO Auto Drip Irrigation Kits Garden Watering System

        N/A
        12/08/2025 04:04 am GMT

        Conclusion: Top Feed Hydroponic Drip System

        The top-feed hydroponic drip system is an excellent system you can choose from out of all the various systems available.

        There are so many advantages to enjoy with this system. The top feed drip emitters allow you to set a different amount of flow for different plants at the same time to allow you to save water and nutrient solution. There is also the privilege of cultivating various plants from small to large.

        We hope our recommendations will guide you in making the right decision. We do wish you a happy growing system! Do you have any recommendations for your own hydroponic drip system to share with us? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring.

        FAQs

        How do you build a top drip hydroponic system?

        A top drip hydroponic system consists of a reservoir, an overflow pipe, a nutrient supply line and a pump.

        A filter and a drip tray are optional additions to the system. A drip hydroponic system is one of the best options for growing plants in small spaces. It allows the use of a small amount of water and nutrients for the entire growing cycle of a plant. The reservoir is the heart of the system and it is usually made out of polyethylene, or glass. It stores water from your tap or a water tank that can be refilled as needed.

        The overflow pipe is connected to the bottom of the reservoir and it allows excess water to drain into the reservoir when it is full. This excess water will then be used to water the plants in the drip tray. The overflow pipe should be located at the bottom of the reservoir so that it drains into the reservoir. The nutrient supply line connects the reservoir to the top of the reservoir. It supplies water and nutrients to the plants. The pump is usually located at the top of the reservoir, near the overflow pipe. It pushes the water and nutrients through the lines to the plants. An ideal drip hydroponic system is one that uses a single-stage pump. A single-stage pump uses less energy than a two-stage pump, and a two-stage pump is a must if you are growing hydroponically. 

        What is the most efficient hydroponic system?

        For indoor growing, I’d recommend a hydrofarm system by Hydrofarm.
        They’re not cheap but they’re very powerful, efficient, and reliable. They’re also easy to maintain and use.  The system consists of 2 pumps, a reservoir, a filtration tank, and a controller. You can control the amount of water going into the reservoir via a pump controller. In addition to the reservoir, there’s also a separate filtration tank. The filtration tank has a built in filter which is used to remove impurities from the water before it gets pumped into the reservoir. This means that you can put your plants in the reservoir for up to 3 months without having to add oxygen. For outdoor growing, I’d recommend the AeroGarden series.
        They’re a little more expensive but they’re easier to use than a Hydrofarm system. They’re also very easy to maintain and use. They come with a reservoir which contains a filter and a pump. The reservoir is also connected to the controller. The controller has 3 main functions:
        1. It regulates the amount of water going into the reservoir
        2. It automatically adds oxygen to the water
        3. It monitors the temperature and the pH of the water. The controller has 2 settings, High and Low. If you set the controller to low, it will only add oxygen when it detects a high demand for oxygen (when the air gets really dry). This means that if you’re growing in a warm area, you’ll only need to add oxygen when the air gets really dry. If you want to grow plants in a large reservoir, you can set the controller to high. This way, the controller will add oxygen even when there’s not much demand for oxygen.