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Author: Eunice

  • Rootech Cloning Gel Review

    Rootech Cloning Gel Review

    Cloning in a hydroponic garden is common and rooting hormone is one way to boost the success rate of your cloning. You might be wondering which rooting hormone to go for with so many options in the market. This is why we have put together the Rootech cloning gel review.

    Rootech cloning gel is pretty easy to use compared to most cloning gel. Cloning is a common method among farmers that prefers not to start plant propagation with seeds.

    Cloning is a quicker and more efficient technique of plant propagation even for beginners. Now, the application of rooting hormones such as Rootech cloning gel will improve the success rate of your plant propagation.

    Info On Rootech Cloning Gel

    Technaflora Rootech cloning gel is an amazing rooting hormone for cloning. It is a ready-to-use rooting hormone gel in optimizing rapid, healthy, and substantial root development.

    Rootech cloning gel is formulated with a high concentration of rooting hormone supplying your cloned plant with the right ingredient it can make use of immediately when applied. Therefore, it is one of the best in the market and it works for various plants.

    Info On Rootech Cloning Gel

    Rootech Cloning Gel Success Rate

    Rootech cloning gel success rate is top-notch even for the most difficult plant. We will give it a 95% success rate. We love the fact that it is easy to use and it comes in a thick gel with no mess. Even a small amount will do the job perfectly as it is highly concentrated and it can as well be diluted. It also comes in various sizes.

    Advantages & Features Of Rootech Gel

    You enjoy the best features while using Rootech cloning gel. Some of them are:

    • Rootech cloning gel is made of ultra-thick and smooth gel which has no hot spots. Therefore, there’s no worry about plant tissues and young roots burns.
    • It accelerates healthy root growth.
    • There’s no worry of washing off when watering as it is made of thick and rich ingredients that will hold on to your plant cuttings even with top watering.
    • If you wish to dilute it, be rest assured it mixes well with water for smooth dilution.
    • Even the most difficult plant can be successfully propagated with Rootech cloning gel.
    • Rootech cloning gel works amazing when cloning plants for vegetative propagation. Your cloned root should begin to root in about a week of using this rooting hormone gel. It can be used in various growing mediums such as Rockwool, rapid rooter, etc. The resulting plants should be ready to be transplanted in about 2 to 3 weeks of using Rootech cloning gel.

    Technaflora Rootech Gel for Plants, 7-Grams (2-pack)

    91PRd78CBeL. AC SX569
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    Rootech Cloning Instructions

    As we have mentioned earlier, Rootech cloning gel is pretty easy to use. Let’s take a look at how you can use Rootech for your plant propagation.

    The materials required for cloning with Rootech in plant propagation are growing medium, propagation tray, cuttings from the stem, humidity dome, heating pad, and Rootech cloning gel.

    1. Get your Rootech gel and put some amount in a separate clean container. Store the rest of the unused Rootech cloning gel in the refrigerator.

    2. Next, obtain your growing medium such as Rockwool. Drill a small hole in the Rockwool plugs where the bottom of the stem will enter.

    3. Cut the plant to be cloned with a sharp sterile cutting tool and cut directly under the node. Prepare the stem by dipping each bottom of the cuttings with Rootech cloning gel.

    4. Now, put your set up in the cube holes of the propagation tray and water your plugs in a little to soak water.

    5. Then place your set up under a heating pad and cover it with a humidity dome. Feed them with grow light as they begin to grow.

    6. Spray mist your set up to prevent them from drying out and monitor daily. You should begin to see the first root coming out in about a week. In 2 to 3 weeks, the roots should be developed enough to be transplanted into your hydroponics or traditional soil.

    Using Rootech Cloning Gel

    FAQ’s

    What is Rootech cloning gel?

    Rootech cloning gel is a solution that is used to clone or produce multiple plants from a single seed. This gel can be used for any type of plant such as trees, shrubs, and herbs. The gel is available in a tube or a spray can. It comes in different colors such as red, yellow, green, blue, etc. The cloning gel is the best tool for cloning because it is the most effective. If you want to get the highest percentage of success rate, this is the only way to go. Using cloning gel will help to remove the seed coat and make a small cut in the seed. This will help the new plant to germinate easily. The gel is made from the root cells of the mother plant. The gel is used to separate the seed coat from the embryo or seedling. Once the gel has been applied, you can then plant the seed into the gel. The gel will protect the seedling from getting wet while you wait for it to sprout. Is rootech cloning gel safe for plants? Yes, it is 100% safe. There are no harmful chemicals or toxins in this gel. You can use this gel for any type of plant. It is not only safe for vegetables and fruits but it is also safe for flowers and trees. It is safe to use for any type of plant. Is rootech cloning gel expensive? It is not very expensive at all. You can buy this product from your local garden center for about $15-20.

    Is cloning gel necessary?

    The reason you would use cloning gel is to get the plant cuttings to root quickly. You want to get the cuttings as close to the time of transplanting as possible, which means that you don’t have to wait for them to grow roots before you can move them into a larger pot. If you are using soil, then you will want to start them in something like Miracle-Gro Root Booster (or equivalent) as it will give them the right amount of nutrients. Potting mixes will work but if you’re starting from seed, it’s best to avoid potting mixes as they contain too much sand, which could cause problems with the seedlings’ root systems.

    What can I use instead of cloning gel?

    You can use a regular petri dish with a thin layer of agar or gelatin.

    The agar or gelatin will act as the substrate that supports the roots of the plant. You can also use regular soil if you want to be more accurate with your measurements. I would suggest that you make sure that you are measuring the depth of the pot to make sure it is the correct size.

    Final Say

    The Rootech cloning gel is definitely an excellent rooting hormone for accelerating root development. The powerful rooting hormone can work even with the most challenging type of plant.

    You will enjoy massive root growth and it is easy to use especially for beginners. Therefore, it is the choice for most gardeners and we would highly recommend it for hydroponic cloning in plant propagation.

    We do hope you enjoyed our review on Rootech cloning gel.

  • 5 Best Air Stones For DWC- Buying Guide

    5 Best Air Stones For DWC- Buying Guide

    If you’re into hydroponics and you’re searching for the best air stone for DWC, we will guide you into this. We have reviewed some of the best air stones for your DWC hydroponics gardening and our guide will assist you in choosing the best options.

    We will also enlighten you on other things you need to know about air stones for DWC such as: how it works, size requirements, etc. So, read on to learn.

    Importance Of Air Stones For DWC

    An air stone in hydroponic gardening is very essential for a deep water culture system (DWC). In a standard situation, the root of your plant will require oxygen to grow healthily. Plants grown in the soil get oxygen from the soil. However, in hydroponics, there’s no soil, thus, plants can’t get their oxygen the normal way they do from the soil.

    For this reason, air stones are required. Airstone paired with an air pump will help in air circulation for your plant’s roots so they can grow optimally. Without a good air stone, your deep water culture hydroponics system will choke the plants and they will most likely die.

    How Air Stones Work In DWC

    Air stones are usually paired with an air pump to yield bubbles of oxygen. The bubbles of oxygen diffuse into the DWC system supplying nutrients to plants.

    Size Of Air Stone Needed

    Airstone comes in various sizes and choosing the right size will depend on the size of your hydroponic farm. The right size will adequately supply good oxygen for your hydroponic system.

    The standard size for a 5-gallon bucket DWC for example will be one 6 inch air stone or two 3 or 4-inch air stone.

    DWC Airstone Requirement: How Much Is Needed?

    Generally, the required air stone for DWC should be able to supply around 1 Liter per minute (LPM). This should generate aeration and airflow for each water gallon.

    So, let’s say your DWC system is a 5-gallon water reservoir; 5 LPM air stones will be needed for optimal oxygenation. This also means if you have a 10-gallon water reservoir, 10 LPM air stones will be required for aeration.

    Also, note that too much or too little oxygen can affect your DWC system adversely. Inadequate oxygen will result in low productivity. Excess oxygen may result in too much algae growth and also affect your plant’s development.

    DWC Airstone Requirement - How Much Is Needed

    Types Of Air Stones For Hydroponics

    There are 3 types of air stones you can use for your DWC hydroponics, they are:

    Round Disc: this type is a round disc-shaped air stone that will supply bubbles of oxygen for your DWC hydroponics.

    Eco Plus: eco plus are great for hydroponics gardening. They work quietly without sound disturbance and are commonly used by commercial hydroponics farmers.

    Micro Pour: micro pour is another type of air stone that generates the tiniest bubbles compared to other air stones.

    Check out the Cheapest hydroponic Growing Medium

    Buying Guide

    Let’s take a look at some things to consider when choosing the best air stones for your DWC.

    1. Aeration: The first and important point to consider when going for air stones for DWC is aeration. After all, the aim of getting an air stone for your DWC is to provide adequate aeration for your plants. So, will this air stone generate optimal air circulation for your plant roots? Ensure the answer is yes! Also, ensure the bubbles produced should are small because plants benefit more from smaller bubbles.

    2. Steadiness: Another question to ask is: Will it stay steady in one place? Even if it is lightweight, make sure it can stay steady with the use of a suction cup so it does not float upwards.

    Buying Guide - Steadiness

    3. Materials Used: The materials used for the air stone should be Eco-friendly and healthy. It should be safe for both fish and hydroponic plants.

    4. Water Clog: You should also ensure there’s no worry about water clogging in the air stone you are choosing.

    How We Picked The Best Air Stones For DWC

    Here’s the list of the 5 best air stones you can find for your DWC system, so read on to decide your best pick:

    1.    Pawfly 4PCS Air Stone Bar 4 Inch Bubble Release Mineral Airstones for Fish Tank Aquarium Pump

    The Pawfly air stone is a great option when picking the best air stones for your DWC. It is a 4 inch and 4 pieces air stone bar. It will generate small bubbles and aerate your deep water culture system.

    This air stone is durable and affordable and the air stone is quite sturdy. It is also made of non-toxic mineral materials and it comes with everything needed.

    An added advantage is that this type of air stone has some weight and it will stay steady in a place. Therefore, you don’t need to invest extra cost in purchasing a suction cup for your air stone.

    The drawback is that this air stone is not too ideal for bigger tanks or reservoirs. It might require multiple air stones to meet up with larger tanks.

    Pros                                                               

    • Sturdy and stays in one place.
    • Supplies small bubble aeration.
    • Made of non-toxic materials.
    • Suction cup not needed.

    Cons

    • Might need multiple air stones for a larger reservoir.
    616BXbLtwPL. AC SL1000
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    2.    Pawfly 1 Inch Air Stone 10 Pieces Cylinder Bubble Diffuser Airstones for Aquarium Fish Tank Pump Grey/Blue

    The one-inch Pawfly air stone is a perfect choice for generating oxygen in tiny bubbles for your deep water culture hydroponics system. It is also ideal for aquarium and aquaponics fish tanks and the price is fairly decent.

    There’s no stress of water clogging as it will evenly diffuse air throughout your DWC system. Thus, your plants will enjoy optimal aeration and nutrient absorption.

    Another added advantage of this great air stone is its great compatibility with most air pumps. It can be driven by Nano air pumps making it a perfect choice for your DWC hydroponics system. To get optimal results, you will need air pump power between the range of 2W to 4W so they can work efficiently.

    The only downside is that you will need to get a suction cup because it’s lightweight so to keep it steady in one place. If you don’t get a suction cup, whenever it starts to pump air, it may float to the top rather than staying down.

    Pros

    • Compactable with air most pump.
    • Generates adequate water bubbles for aeration.
    • Easy to use and clean.
    • No clogging.

    Cons

    • A suction cup is needed.
    616NpobQcJL. AC SX569
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    3.    Wenshall 1.6″ Small Round Air Stones for Aquariums Oxygen Diffuser Fish Tank Air Bubbler for Hydroponics Aquariums Oxygen Stone 4/8pcs

    The Wenshall air stone is an ideal choice for a small DWC. This air stone has amazing functionality and will provide your DWC with sufficient aeration.

    The package consists of 4 pieces of air stones and 2 pieces. The materials used are environmentally friendly to either your fish tanks or hydroponics plants.

    It comes with 4 suction cups and 2 check valves. The suction cups will help the air stone stay fit in a place. The check valves will as well keep the water from siphoning backward.

    The downside is that it doesn’t come with an air pump and air tubes.

    Pros

    • Great for air circulation.
    • Comes with 4 suction cups to keep the air stone steady.
    • Made of healthy materials.

    Cons

    • Air pump and air tubes not included.
    Check Price on Amazon

    4.    Yueton Pack of 10 Cylinder Aquarium Bubble Air Stone Fish Tank Aerator

    This 10 cylinder pack air stone by Yueton and is made of mineral in-built and non-toxic plastic materials. It’s another great option for providing standard bubbles for optimal aeration for your DWC system.

    This air stone will fit in well with 4mm inner diameter soft tubes. It is also affordable and easy to install.

    We also admire the bright beautiful blue color to add beauty to your hydroponic system. You also don’t have to worry about clogged air stones

    The drawback we know of is that if you try to change or remove one of them from the tubing, it might crumble. We recommend you to take the air stone out of your reservoir completely if you wish to change them. Also, do not press them too hard so they don’t fall apart.

    Pros

    • Provides good aeration.
    • No clogging.
    • Made of non-toxic materials.
    • Easy to install.

    Cons

    • Might fall apart when changing from the tubing.
    61ARQ%2BGnvyL. AC SL1035
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    5.    AQUANEAT Air Stone, 4 X 2 Inch Large Air Stone Cylinder, Aerator Bubble Diffuser, Air Pump Accessories for Hydroponic Growing System

    Aquaneat air stone is another option for generating optimal aeration for your DWC system. They are durable even after washing. They are also made of environmentally friendly materials for both your fish and hydroponic plants.

    It will work excellently well when paired with a high output air pump of at least 8W to 10W. This air stone will perfectly connect and fit a standard airline tubing of 3/16 inches.

    Note that pre-soak is required before use.

    Pros

    • Generates high aeration capacity when paired with a high output air pump.
    • Eco-friendly materials.

    Cons

    • Requires pre-soak before use.
    81qW1GeKVwL. AC SX679
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    FAQ’s

    Which air stone is best for DWC?

    The Air Stone will help to keep your fish tank or aquarium clean and oxygenated by sucking up all the waste that the fish create. If you have an indoor set up, you should be fine with just one Air Stone.

    However, It really depends on what you’re trying to do. I’m not sure what your setup is like, but I would recommend a small airstone that can be placed above the substrate. The substrate should not touch the airstone. This will allow air to flow over the substrate and into the water without disturbing it too much. If your setup allows for it, I would also recommend a larger airstone in another area of the tank.
    That way you can blow air into the substrate at different points throughout the tank to keep it moving. I think this is an important point. I have been using a small airstone (about 1/2 gal. capacity) for about 6 months now. It is placed about 1 inch off the surface of the substrate. My tank has a 20 gallon tank and the airstone is about 1 inch off the bottom. The water is about 4 inches deep. I have never seen a problem with this setup. It is so easy to clean up any water that comes from the airstone. I would also like to add that I use a small aquarium pump to circulate my water. It is not a big one, but it is powerful enough to circulate the water.

    Are air stones necessary for DWC?

    Air stones are used to prevent the buildup of algae and other organic matter on the water surface, which can cause the pump to work harder. They’re also useful in a fishless (closed) tank because the pump is typically submerged in the tank. In an open tank, they are unnecessary. An air stone is essentially a fine mesh screen that fits over a pump or aquarium filter outlet.

    It prevents the buildup of algae and debris while allowing water to flow freely. If you do not have an air stone, make sure to turn off your pump when not using it. This will save electricity and help prevent algae growth.

    What is the difference between an air stone and a diffuser?

    The diffuser is the part of the aquaponics system that releases the oxygen back into the water to make it more appealing to fish. The air stone is the part that helps to disperse the bubbles in the water. They work together to create the most efficient system. Diffusers are used to keep oxygen levels high in the aquarium by allowing air to escape through holes or slits in the tank, thus increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water.

    This will help to support a higher level of fish life in your system. Air stones  also make it easier for the plants to absorb nutrients from the water.

    Conclusion

    As you can see there are great options for choosing the best air stones for your DWC system. If you’ve decided to purchase one for your hydroponics, then any of the picks in our review should be an excellent place to commence your search.

  • Kratky Method For Strawberries

    Kratky Method For Strawberries

    can If you wish to learn about growing strawberries using the Kratky method, we will let you know in this post. A Kratky method is a form of passive hydroponic method and it is known as the simplest form of hydroponic system.

    This type of simple hydroponic technique is named after Bernard Kratky who’s a researcher at the University of Hawaii. You can grow various plants such as herbs, leafy greens, pepper, or tomatoes, as well as strawberries successfully using the Kratky technique.

    Kratky Method

    The Kratky method is another great way of growing various plants without the use of soil or dirt. The plants are suspended above a nutrient solution and it’s a clean and productive way of gardening.

    The only difference is Kratky technique does not make use of an air pump or aeration for air and water circulation. Therefore, no electricity is needed.

    How To Grow Strawberries With Kratky Method

    There are two ways you can grow strawberries from. You can grow strawberries from seeds or a young strawberry plant. However, we recommend you grow strawberries from young plants because growing them from seeds might take a while to get results.

    Growing Strawberries With Young Plant

    For growing strawberries using the Kratky method, you will need the following materials:

    • Container to serve as a reservoir for holding nutrients (most growers use 5-gallon bucket).
    • Net cups.
    • A cover lid or grow tray to insert the net cups.
    • Growing media (such as hydrotons balls, pebbles, rock wool, coco coir, etc).
    • Healthy young strawberry plants.

    To grow strawberries using young strawberry plants, you will need to obtain a healthy young plant either from the soil or from an existing hydroponic strawberry garden. Make sure you rinse off the roots if you are taking your strawberry plants from the soil.

    Next, get your net pots and slide the little plants into the net pots. Fill the net pots with your desired growing medium to support your strawberry plant. Try gently pull some roots of the young plants so that they can come out at the bottom of the net pots.

    GROWNEER 25 Packs 3 Inch Net Cups Slotted Mesh Wide Lip

    Kratky Method Strawberries - Net cups
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    By doing this, you can perfectly set the roots to sit in the nutrient-filled water. Only the tips of the roots should touch the nutrient solution, we don’t want any part of the upper plant submerged in water. The gaps between the roots supply oxygen to the plants from inside the nutrient container.

    Kratky Nutrient Solution

    Now you can set them in your Kratky nutrient solution. Supply your set up with some grow lights if you’re growing indoors. However, if you’re growing outdoor, find a good sunny spot in your yard and you’re good to go. You should begin to see a new leaf and root growth in a couple of days. After about a month, you should notice some good growth with your strawberry plant with flowers and broad leaves. You should also begin to see some little strawberries growing.

    When the nutrient solution has almost been exhausted, your strawberry plant should have been ready for harvest. This means a single nutrient solution should be enough to go for a growing cycle and no need for replacement. However, if you notice the nutrients solutions are almost completely dried or used up, you should replace them.

    Strawberry Runners

    When strawberry plants get fully established, they will begin to shoot out runners. It will be a great thing if you can cut and replant or clone these runners to another setup so you can have some new strawberry plants. This will also help trim their edges so they don’t look too bushy.

    Strawberry Runners

    Recommended Temperature For Kratky Strawberry

    Temperature is one of the most crucial requirements for strawberry plants. Without the right temperatures, your plant will be slow in flower and fruit yield therefore, no production good growth and production.

    The appropriate temperature range for strawberries is around 60 to 70 degrees.

    Light Requirements

    Strawberry plants usually consume a lot of energy. Therefore, the appropriate light requirements we recommend for your strawberry plants will be 14 to 16 hours daily. This way, your strawberry plant will be well established and yield plenty of fruits.

    Harvesting

    After about 8 to 10 weeks of planting your strawberry, they should start showing their lovely bright red colors. This means they should be ready for picking.

    Harvesting

    FAQ’s

    What can you grow with the Kratky method?

    The Kratky method is a simple way to create a vegetable garden in an urban setting. It’s an easy-to-grow and versatile system, requiring little space and only the time and effort it takes to plant your seeds and water them every few days. It’s also a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables right from the garden.

    Here are some of the most common vegetables you can grow with the Kratky method. Arugula Arugula is one of the easiest plants to grow in the Kratky method. This cool-weather herb is a great addition to any salad or pasta dish. If you want a quick harvest, you can start arugula seeds indoors a month or two before planting out. In cooler climates, wait until the last week of March or first week of April to plant outside. Asparagus Asparagus is another favorite.

    It’s not only delicious, it’s one of the earliest vegetables to mature. You can start asparagus indoors in late February or early March and transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. If you grow in a warm climate, you can expect your asparagus to be ready for harvest in about six weeks. I recommend growing your own because they are much fresher than what you can find at a store. Celery can be planted in May in cooler climates and in July in warmer climates. It will produce for about two months. Chives Chives, carrots and cauliflower are another great plant to grow with the Kratky method.

    Can you grow strawberries using Kratky method?

    You can certainly grow strawberries using the Kratky method. The only thing to keep in mind is that it will take a while for the strawberries to mature. You can start with seeds or transplants (which are called “strawberries” in nurseries).
    Using Kratky Method Kratky Method is a way of growing strawberries in a small area. It’s an old method that was used by people in the past. You can still find it being used today for growing strawberries. The Kratky method is simple and requires very little equipment. You can do this all by yourself.

    There are many ways to grow strawberries using the Kratky method. You can grow them in pots or planters, but a good place for growing strawberries is a sunny spot in your garden. If you have a lot of room in your garden, you can also plant them in rows. You will need to get started with your strawberries by planting them. You can either buy them from a store or you can start them from seed.
    The seeds are tiny and very fragile, so it’s best to buy them already planted. They should be planted right away because they take a long time to grow. Once you have your plants, you will need to keep them watered. If they dry out, the leaves will wilt and the fruit will be damaged. You will need to water them at least once every day for about 10 days after planting. After that, they will need to be watered every other day.

    How do you start the Kratky seed?

    If you start the Kratky seed, then you need to wait until it has germinated. You can do this by placing the seed in a paper cup, with a plastic wrap and water on top of the cup. Check the cup every day and make sure that there is enough water. If you don’t want to use the paper cup, you can use an old, clean coffee cup or even a flowerpot.

    You can start to plant your seedlings as soon as they are about 5cm tall. As long as you plant them in a sunny spot, you should be fine.

    Final Say On Kratky Method Strawberries

    Growing strawberries using the Kratky method is pretty easy and beneficial. It is a soil-free method that will result in abundant fruit production all year round. You also, get to enjoy the fresh and juicy fruits at the comfort of your home.

  • What Is A Bulkhead Fitting For Aquaponics

    What Is A Bulkhead Fitting For Aquaponics

    The question we’re going to be answering today is: what is a bulkhead fitting? A bulkhead fitting is a point of attachment for connecting pipes to tanks or reservoirs.

    Bulkhead fitting helps secure your piping connections thereby preventing leakage. It also helps give the right direction to where water is required to flow through.

    Bulkhead fittings are especially used in hydroponics or aquaponics plumbing connections. These fittings are used to fill water or drain water easily from your hydroponics or aquaponics system.

    Let’s discuss further the key components of bulkhead fittings, how to install a bulkhead fitting, and their uses.

    Main Parts Of Bulkhead Fitting

    Bulkhead fitting materials are usually made of fortified and long-lasting components such as PVC, brass, plastic, and other quality materials. Most parts you will find in bulkhead fittings consist mainly of 3 parts.

    • Body of Bulkhead: the first part of the bulkhead is the body which is the exterior and interior threads.
    • Gasket: the next part of the bulkhead is the gasket. It might come in one or two. The gasket will fit onto the body of the bulkhead.
    • Nut: the third and last part is the nut or locknut. The nut is attached to the exterior thread. It will thread into the place of the bulkhead fittings seating up against the gasket thereby creating a tightly sealed water tank.

    Outus PVC Bulkhead Fitting for Rain Barrels, Aquariums, Ponds, or Water Tanks

    61kQQvLJ8%2BL. AC SX569
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    Let’s move forward by learning how to install the bulkhead fittings.

    How To Install A Bulkhead Fitting

    Below are the steps to installing bulkhead fittings:

    1. Hole Drilling: a bulkhead fitting is installed by first cutting or drilling a hole by the bottom of the tank or reservoir to which the pipes can be connected. Make sure you measure and determine the size of the bulkhead exterior so you know the size of the hole to drill.

    2. Bulkhead Fitting: after drilling the hole, you can now insert the bulkhead fitting with the threads inside or outside the tank or reservoir (whichever way you want it to fit your connections).

    3. Gasket and Locknut Fittings: then fit the gasket into place. If you have two gaskets, use each one on either side of the walls. Now thread the locknut down by tightening it with your hand to apply pressure to the gasket. The locknut will then provide a good tight liquid seal with no leaks. But make sure not to over-tighten too much so you don’t break or distort the gasket thereby causing a leak.

    Having fixed all that, you can now go-ahead to connect any type of pipes or PVC fittings.

    Benefits Of Using Bulkhead Fittings

    • Bulkhead fitting will create a perfectly tight liquid sealed connection.
    • They are great for hydroponics or aquaponics plumbing connections.
    • They allow for easy flow of water through the tanks or reservoir.
    • There’s no problem with water leakage with bulkhead fittings.

    Other Uses of Bulkhead Pipe Fitting

    • They are used in hot water pipe systems especially the brass bulkhead fittings.
    • Bulkhead fittings are used in hydroponic and aquaponic systems for connecting pipes to allow easy drainage along with the water tank or reservoir.
    • They are also used in ponds for installing water to connect pipes that enable easy drainage. This makes changing water easier rather than scooping water out of the bucket.
    • The kitchen sink also makes use of several bulkhead fittings for easy flow of water.
    • Generally used in transporting liquid containers.
    • They are as well used in any type of mechanism that requires large drums or barrels that needs to be filled with water.
    Other Uses of Bulkhead Fittings

    What To Consider When Purchasing Bulkhead Fittings

    Anytime you purchase a bulkhead fitting, always consider the type of liquid that will flow through your fittings. If it is a hot liquid you should go for the strong type such as the brass bulkhead fittings. If you will be working with cool water you can go for the regular type.

    Also, put into consideration the speed or pressure at which your water will be flowing. For instance, high speed or pressure will need a strong fitting and vice versa.

    All these considerations are to make sure you don’t end up with a distorted or cracked gasket due to pressure. The goal is to prevent any leakage.

    Find out the 5 Top Feed Drip System Hydroponics and 5 Best Hydroponic Kits You Can Find

    FAQ’s

    What is a bulkhead fitting?

    The most common bulkhead fitting for aquaponics is the standard 1-1/4″ x 1-1/2″ copper pipe. This is an ideal fit for a single tank setup, where you have one sump and one fish tank. However, the 1-1/4″ diameter of the pipe is also too large to be easily used in multiple tanks (more on that later). 

    It is a good choice for any aquaponic system where there is only one fish tank or sump, but it is not suitable for multiple tanks. It is also not recommended for systems where water must pass through a filter. Most standard 1-1/4″ x 1-1/2″ copper pipes are made with 1/8″ thick walls, which is not strong enough for more than one tank. If you have more than one tank in your system, you will need to upgrade to a stronger bulkhead fitting. If you are planning to put your aquaponics in multiple tanks, you should use a bulkhead fitting that has at least 3/8″ thick walls.

    How do you install a bulkhead fitting?

    The standard method is to use a drill and a 1/4″ bit. If you don’t have a drill, then you can use a 1/4″ drill bit. Attach the bulkhead fitting to the edge of the wall with a screw. Drill a hole through the bulkhead fitting and into the stud. Insert a washer (or two) into the hole.

    Attach the screw into the bulkhead fitting, and the washer will hold it in place.

    How do I stop bulkhead fitting from leaking?

    There are many reasons why you might have a leak. First, I would check your system for leaks in the main tank or other components. If you find any, they will need to be repaired before anything else. Second, I would take a good look at the fitting and see if you can identify what is causing the leak. Some leaks occur because of manufacturing defects. Others occur because of damage to the fitting. You may have to disassemble the bulkhead to get a better view.

    Third, you may need to look at the valve that controls the flow of water. If the valve is damaged, it could be leaking as well.

    How do you replace a bulkhead?

    The best thing to do would be to remove the old one and then install the new one. If it is a solid piece of material, it may be difficult to remove without destroying it, but if you can cut it off with a hacksaw or similar tool, it shouldn’t take more than an hour or two to do so. 

    Once the old one is removed, install the new one

    How do you seal a bulkhead fitting?

    If your bulkhead is a simple pipe fitting that has no special features (eg, a threaded nut), then there is no need for a seal. The pipe will be pressed tightly against the wall of the tank, so there won’t be any leakage. If your pipe fitting has a threaded nut, then you’ll need to use an appropriate sealant to prevent leakage.

    Conclusion

    With that said, we do hope you have grabbed one or two things about what a bulkhead fitting is. If you have any questions feel free to drop a comment and we will respond.

  • Aquaponics Filtering Systems – An Overview

    Aquaponics Filtering Systems – An Overview

    Let’s talk about aquaponics filtering systems. We’ve discussed in our previous posts that aquaponics farming involves fish and plants and the fish waste materials are used by plants as nutrients. Vice versa, plants help the fish by filtering water with their plant roots thereby returning good water to the fish tank or pond.

    Even though there is a symbiotic relationship between the fish and plants that filter the system, not all the waste is filtered. This is why aquaponics filtering systems are required to maintain good water quality for an optimal aquaponics system.

    What Is An Aquaponics Filtering Systems

    Aquaponics filtering systems help filter excess waste, especially solid waste out of your aquaponics system. The system will ensure a clean and healthy environment for both fish and plants. Let’s take a look at 3 major types of aquaponics filtering systems.

    Types Of Aquaponics Filtrating System

    Although we have various types of filtering systems, we will talk about the 3 major types. They are:

    1. Swirl Filters

    This type of filter is the most commonly used for grow beds. They can be purchased online or made at home (DIY). This type of filter system makes use of a large barrel-shaped container. Inside the barrel, there is a basket that filters solid waste outside. The swirl filter works by collecting water from the fish tank.

    Types of Aquaponics Filtrating System - Swirl Filters

    As the barrel fills up, the swirl effect is generated slowing down the rising water level. This helps the solid particles to move and settles at the base of the container. The filtered nutrient water now moves out from the top of the container through the pipe and feeds the plant beds with filtered water.

    Note that the barrel must be cleaned from time to time because of the settled particles. Use clean water only and never use soap to wash the barrel so you don’t kill the beneficial bacteria. The goal is just to remove only the settled particles at the bottom of the barrel.

    2. Raft Water Filter

    The raft water filter is another excellent way of filtering your aquaponics systems. It has two or three filter layers or chambers where solid particles pass through. The chambers feature large pieces of foams serving as the filters. These large foams are placed at the top of the fish tank; therefore, water will pass these chambers.

    As the water moves, the first filter layer collects the solid particles before it enters the next filter layer. When the water moves, the solid particles move down the base of the tank. After the water has passed through all the chambers, the filtered nutrient water can now be pumped into the plant beds for use.

    The raft water filter is mostly used in large tanks therefore, it usually takes up space.

    3. Radial Flow Filter

    The radial flow filter system makes use of a 50 gallons barrel. There is a pipe connection that comes from the fish tank into the middle of the barrel. The pipe is also seen coming out at the top of the barrel facing 90 degrees. Therefore, water with solid particles flows down into the barrel through the pipe.

    Solid particles are settled at the bottom of the barrel. Clean nutrient-rich water is filtered up through the 90 degrees upper pipe and passed to the grow beds for plant use.

    Why You Need Aquaponics Filtering Systems

    Excess waste such as solid waste can become quite a challenge in your aquaponics when they are produced in the fish tank. These solids are pushed and get into the pumps and into your grow beds causing build-up. It can become an issue getting rid of these particles from the water as they can cause your water quality to depreciate.

    Fishes produce ammonia waste but the ammonia is needed in nitrates by the plants. Therefore, it’s the availability of bacteria occurring naturally in your aquaponics system that will convert ammonia into nitrates needed by plants.

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    These particles can clog your grow beds reducing the surface areas for these beneficial bacteria to live, thereby decreasing their activities.

    This is why installing aquaponics filtering systems for your aquaponics is essential so your system can enjoy clean nutrient-filled water.

    Read more about:

    Additional Info On Aquaponics Filtration Systems

    You should know there are things you can do to reduce solid particles in your system. This way, you can reduce or put an end to the number of solid particles clogging your system.  Simply follow these tips:

    • Avoid overfeeding your fish to reduce uneaten food and clogged-up pipes.
    • Figure out the correct proportion of fish size required for your aquaponics system. This way, you won’t have too many fish that can cause too much or excess waste than your plant can absorb.
  • How Fast Do Tilapia Grow?

    How Fast Do Tilapia Grow?

    If you’re wondering how fast tilapia grow, we will let you know in this article. Tilapia is one of the most widely farmed fish and you will enjoy raising tilapia be it for business, which is pretty lucrative, or for consumption, or even for ornamental purposes because tilapia is a good-looking fish.

    Tilapia are fast-growing fish whether you decide to grow them in a tank, a pond, or a hapa. This is why they are one of the most loved fish to raise in aquaponics or fish culture. Let’s explore how fast tilapia fish grow and some requirements for tilapia’s fast growth rate. So, read on to find out.

    Know-How Fast Tilapia Grow

    Tilapia start from eggs, and then grow from hatchlings to fingerlings, and then to the adult or harvesting stage. How fast tilapia grow from the hatchling stage to adult or harvest size can take 8 to 9 months or 240 days. However, the fingerlings to adult or harvest size stage can take up to 6 months or 26 weeks.

    Most of the time in these 240 days is spent in the hatchling period rather than the grow-out stage. Their fast growth rate is at the hatchling period as they gain more ounces in this stage, thereby giving them accelerated growth. It is for this reason (fast growth rate) they are one of the best fish for aquaponics.

    After 8 to 9 months or 240 days, the tilapia growth rate flattens. The rest of the tilapia’s life after this stage will only experience little growth per year. The growth rate can be as low as a few ounces per year.

    How Long Does It Take For Tilapia To Grow Into Full Size

    Tilapia fish will grow from hatchling to full size around 240 days. At the grown stage, the full size of your tilapia fish should be between 15 to 20 ounces or 450 to 565 grams.

    Requirements For Fast Tilapia Growth Rate: Factors To Consider

    You get the best growth rate for your tilapia if all growing requirements are met especially at their hatchling stage. Below are the recommended growth rate needed for your tilapia:

    • Clean water and dissolved oxygen: clean or good water quality is one of the most important requirements for the efficient growth of your tilapia fish. Dissolved oxygen increases the survival rate and also food intake so your tilapia can grow adequately. If you’re making use of a pond, atmospheric oxygen and photosynthesis will supply good oxygen for your tilapia to grow. However, if you’re making use of a tank, you will need to provide additional artificial aeration to support your tilapia fish.

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    • Stocking Density: together with good aeration or dissolved oxygen, tilapia fish should be stocked in the right proportion. The fish stocking density should be proportionate to your tank or pond size. This way, there won’t be food or space competition. Failure to maintain the right stocking density can cause depreciation of growth as the fish will compete for space and food.
    • Food: Another requirement for tilapia’s good growth rate is food. Tilapia can feed or survive on varieties of food. However, they are mostly fed with plant-based food as these are more beneficial and will encourage optimal growth. If you’re raising tilapia in a pond, you can feed them with algae. If you’re however raising them in a fish tank, feed them with plant-based, artificial food from any local store, or order some from Amazon.
    • Water Temperature: tilapia are warm-water fish. Therefore, you should ensure their water temperature is in the right range. With the right temperature, tilapia will metabolize adequately, thereby increasing their survival and growth rate. Maintain water temperatures of 75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature drops below 50 degrees, metabolism slows down which causes survival and growth rate to diminish. Temperatures below 40 degrees will be fatal to your tilapia fish and they will most likely die.

    Tilapia Breeds That Are Fast Growing

    Among the various tilapia varieties we have, here are the fast-growing breeds you can find:

    • Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).
    • Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).
    Tilapia Breeds That Are Fast Growing

    Tilapia is one of the best fish to raise in aquaponics because of its rapid growth rate. The fastest-growing tilapia breeds are the Nile and Mozambique tilapia.

    Tilapia experienced the fastest growth rate around the hatchling period. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a faster or bigger growth rate, you should follow our recommended requirements mentioned above.

    We do hope you have learned one or two things from this article. If you would like to learn more about tilapia, there are other related articles on tilapia for you to learn more.

    FAQ’s

    How fast do tilapia multiply?

    The growth rate of Tilapia is around 2.0 inches per week (depending on the size) for juvenile fish, and 3.0 inches per month for adult fish. If you are buying fish to keep for your aquarium, you should buy the smallest size that will fit comfortably into your tank.

    Tilapia like to eat a variety of foods, but the most important thing is that it eats live food. It does not like dry or dead food, and it also does not like frozen food. Tilapia require live food because they have small stomachs. You can give them frozen food once a week, but do not feed it to them more than once a week.

    What makes tilapia grow faster?

    If you’re looking for a fish to grow as quickly as possible, tilapia is the way to go.Tilapia have a large appetite and will eat more than most other fish. They can grow up to eight inches long and weigh up to three pounds. They also have an active metabolism that helps them grow fast.

    The most common varieties of tilapia are: White Tilapia – These are the most common variety of tilapia and are generally the smallest. They can reach up to four inches long and weigh between one and two pounds. White tilapia are also the easiest to breed. Pink Tilapia – These are sometimes called rose tilapia or “Ruby” tilapia.They have red pigment in their skin and they are slightly larger than white tilapia. Black Tilapia – These are also known as tiger tilapia and have a dark-colored flesh. They are usually the largest variety of tilapia. They can grow up to six inches long and weigh up to three pounds.  Tilapia are a low maintenance species and require little more than a shallow water bath. They do like to be kept in water with a pH of 2.5 –3.5 and a temperature of 74°F – 77°F. They also enjoy being kept in a slightly acidic environment.

    How big does a tilapia get?

    Tilapia can grow up to 2.5 feet ( 3.8m) in length, and weigh as much as 30 pounds (13kg). The average size of a male tilapia is around two inches, and a female is about one inch.

    The largest adult male is about 3-4 pounds, but most are smaller than half that weight.

    There are also a few larger females, but they are rare. How do they eat? Tilapias are omnivores that eat small invertebrates, plants, and algae.

    How much space do tilapia need?

    Aquaculture is the farming of fish, shellfish or other aquatic organisms. Tilapia is one of the most popular fish in aquaculture, especially in Asia and Africa. It has been farmed for over a thousand years. As with any farm animal, tilapia are kept in a controlled environment to provide them with food, water and shelter.

    Tilapia are easy to keep but require a lot of space. They are omnivorous so they eat both plants and animals. Tilapia need at least 20 square meters per fish. However, you can also keep tilapia in a tank that’s not as big as this. The fish will just have to be a bit closer together. Tilapia grow quickly, so they’re ready to harvest when they’re between 30-45cm long. They can live for up to five years if kept properly. If you choose to rear tilapia in an indoor aquarium, the water should be about 18 degrees Celsius.

  • How To Trim Basil To Promote Growth

    How To Trim Basil To Promote Growth

    Who doesn’t love the basil plant especially for its amazing taste and pleasant aroma when it comes to cooking? Now, if you’re wondering how to trim basil to promote healthy growth, just follow our tips and your basil will enjoy optimal growth.

    Basil plants are popularly grown for their flavored attribute. They add a blend of that sweet basil taste and aroma to your meal and they will offer great benefits to your health. Therefore, growing basil plant in your garden is pretty rewarding and trimming is one essential procedure for you to enjoy maximum yield.

    Keep reading to learn more on how to trim basil to promote growth.

    How to Trim Basil to Promote Growth

    As we know, pruning basil plants promotes growth. All types of basil plants (be it lemon basil, Thai basil, Genovese basil, etc) benefits from efficient pruning. Trimming your basil plants is important even if you’re growing them in containers or garden beds.

    Tips to Pruning Basil Plants

    Trimming basil leaves is crucial for the health of your plant growth. Follow the tips below to learn how to trim basil plants to promote abundant growth.

    1. Get a pair of scissors to trim your basil plant. We recommend you always use a blunt tool like scissors. Never use your hands to pinch them so you don’t tear the stem and risk harming your basil plant.

    2. Aim to trim the main stem so it will result in the redistribution of growth hormone close to the plants and yield fuller or thicker basil.

    3. Around the main stem, you should see some tiny leaves developing. When the main stem is trimmed, optimal growth is directed towards the tiny basil leaves developing. Ensure you don’t disturb those little buddies as you trim the basil around them.

    4. After a couple of weeks, these tiny leaves will develop into a new branch. This will then allow you to trim the new branches again around or above the new set of basil leaves. Thus, new branches will develop giving you endless yield as you trim over and over.

    5. Ensure you remain some set of large leaves towards the end of the basil plant as this is essential. This way, these plants will be in charge of converting sunlight into energy for continuous growth.

    6. Trim from the top crown and move a little to the bottom. Depending on how many branches you have, trim the basil plants on each branch to achieve a fuller plant.

    Read more about Growing Microgreens Hydroponically

    When to Trim Basil Plants to Promote Growth

    Basil plants are easy to grow in both growing beds and hydroponics gardens and they are fast growers. This is why trimming should be done as early as their seedling stage.

    When to Trim Basil Plants to Promote Growth

    The appropriate period to trim your basil plant to promote growth is early in the season. Trim when your basil plant is about 6 to 8 inches and with about 6 to 8 leaves.

    When necessary, you should always trim your basil plant every two to three weeks all through the season to promote growth.

    Check out When to Harvest Broccoli

    Advantages of Trimming Basil Plants

    The various benefits your basil plant stand to gain from trimming are as follows:

    • When you trim your basil plants frequently, you enjoy optimal growth of amazing vegetation all through the season.
    • Trimming your basil plants allows the growth hormone of the pruned main stem to be redistributed all over the plants around the trimmed basil.
    • Your basil plant will always produce vegetation when trimmed rather than producing flowers.
    • You can even go ahead and make use of the pruned main stem for your cooking. So, you see, there isn’t much waste from pruning basil!

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    Tips for Buying Basil Plants

    When you want to purchase basil plants, we recommend you preferably go for the trimmed ones. You should preferably opt for the short and bushy basil plant.

    FAQ’s

    Does pruning basil help it grow?

    If you’re growing your own basil, then you’ve probably already heard about how beneficial pruning can be to the plants. But did you know that you could also help basil grow better by pruning it? If you’ve got some basil plants in pots on your patio or in your garden, then you can keep them healthy and attractive with a few pruning techniques.

    You might be thinking that you don’t have to prune basil at all, but that’s not true. When you prune your basil, you’ll help it grow stronger and healthier.

    Here are just a few of the benefits of pruning basil:

    1. It Grows Better

    By removing dead or damaged parts of the plant, you can encourage new growth.

    2. It Keeps the Plant Strong and Healthy

    When you prune your basil, you can help prevent pest problems.

    3. It Lengthens the Growing Season

    If you want to enjoy fresh basil all summer long, you should prune your plants once a week.

    4. It Makes Your Leaves Perfectly Curled T

    he perfect way to present your leaves is when you prune them. If you leave too much leaf, it will look messy.

    5. It Allows for More Flowers to Grow

    When you prune your plants, you’ll make room for more flowers.

    Does trimming help basil grow flowers?

    Yes, if you cut back the stems of your basil plants in the late winter or early spring, they will have more energy to produce leaves and flowers. You should wait until after the last frost date for your area. If you do not want to wait that long, you can prune in the summer, but you must wait until all of the leaves on the plant are brown.

    You can prune basil to make it grow better, but you don’t have to.

    It is best to let your basil grow as big as possible. The more you use, the more it will produce. However, if you want to make it grow larger, you can prune the main stem of your basil back in early summer. This will help the plant grow more bushy and produce more leaves.

    How do you trim basil to make it bushy?

    Cut off the bottom leaves The bottom leaves on your basil plants are called “crowns.” They can grow up to 4-6 inches in length, but they don’t get as big or bushy as the leaves that grow at the top of the plant.

    You can use the knife, scissors or a pair of clippers to cut the stems. A pair of clippers is probably the easiest and most effective. The clippers have an adjustable blade that can be used for different thicknesses of stems. 

    You can cut back the top as well. The reason for this is that if the plant gets too large, the top can’t support itself anymore and it will fall over. If you cut the top back to where it can support itself, it will stay upright. 

    Pruning Basil

    By the end of the season, you should have that wide, full, and tall basil plants with many branches. Therefore, trimming your basil plants offers you an endless harvest.

    The goal of trimming the basil plant is to prevent it from entering the flowering phase. Therefore, it will always continue to produce some good leaves which is what we want.

    Although most growers would like to have basil leaves forever: it may come to a point where we might not be able to control such forever. They might later start to grow flowers thereby, halting or reducing vegetative production. But such comes at a much later period and we would have already enjoyed plenty of basil leaves for a long time.