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Category: Plants

What Are Rapid Rooters Made Of?
Rapid rooters are great for germinating seeds and plant cloning. They are also perfect to use as a growing medium in your different hydroponic systems. But do you know what rapid rooters are made of? Well, let’s discuss this.
Rapid rooter is a variety of starter plug and it is loved by both traditional growers and hydroponic gardeners. Using rapid rooters in your hydroponic garden will give you ease to gardening. They will give your seeds or plants an excellent germination rate.
So, here is what you need to know about what rapid rooters are made of. We will also guide you on how to use them.
What Are Rapid Rooters Made Of?
So, what are rapid rooters made of? Rapid rooter can be composed of sphagnum peat moss or tree barks. This peat moss is composed of all-natural soil-less decomposed organic materials which are mostly sphagnum peat.
Therefore, rapid rooters are made up of composted materials. This composted material has great absorbing capacity and it does not compact easily.
Rapid rooters are very efficient and are made to supply adequate air to water ratio especially to your plant roots. The excellent air to water ratio is thanks to the peat moss it’s made of. So, this helps enhances the growth of roots and development of plants generally.
Why Use Rapid Rooter Plugs?
You stand to gain a lot using rapid rooter plugs for your indoor gardening. It will make your growing process easy and it also has an excellent absorption rate.
Rapid rooter plugs are great for starting seeds which you can transplant into your hydroponics or outdoor soil afterward. You can as well use it for cloning plants cuttings and also as a growing medium in your hydroponics system.
They are not made of nutrients, therefore no worries about any nutrient interference when you make use of them in your garden. However, they need to be soaked before use in a balanced pH nutrient solution. Doing this will encourage better seedlings or plant development.
How To Use Rapid Rooters
It’s pretty easy to use rapid rooters and we will show you how.
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Step 1- Soaking
Soaking your rapid rooters in distilled water to re-hydrate them is the first step. You can soak for a couple of hours or up to 24 hours. Once you’re done soaking, the rooter plugs are ready to be used.
Step 2- Plant your seeds
The next thing to do is to put the rooter plugs into your seed tray or grow tray. Put some seeds into the center holes and if there’s no hole, gently tear the tip of the plug and place your seeds. You should plant more than one seed to enhance the possibility of successful germination.
Once again, tear the tip of the plug and cover or place it over the seeds. This is to give the seed a dark environment which is required for its germination.
Step 3- Water Your Grow Tray
Put about 16 ounces of water in your seed tray every two or three days or as need be. The rapid rooter plugs will wick up water to remain moist.
Step 4- Supply with low-intensity light
Next, go ahead and cover the grow tray with a dome to retain the moisture and warm environment.
Then supply them with some low-intensity grow lights such as fluorescent, LED lights, and so on. Remember to always keep your plugs moist by adding water to the grow tray when needed.
Step 5- Germination
Make use of a heating pad or mat to provide some extra heat to your seeds. This is done because seeds tend to germinate better when supplied with some little heat.
After a couple of days, your seeds will begin to germinate and emerge out of the hole reaching for light. Once your seedlings grow to a certain stage, you can increase the intensity of light. This will help prepare them for their vegetative stage.
Once you notice some good amount of root system emerging through the bottom of the rapid rooter plug, that’s a sign it’s ready to be transplanted. So, your seedlings are ready to be transplanted into your hydroponics system or traditional outdoor garden.
When your seedlings are transplanted into your hydroponic system, supply them with a low dose of nutrient solution. Then gradually increase their nutrient dose to gear them for their subsequent plant’s stages.
Storing Rapid Rooter Plugs
Your rapid rooter plugs need to be stored properly to prevent them from going bad. Inappropriate storage of rapid rooter plugs can cause pathogens, mold, and fungi infestation. When you notice this infestation, there’s nothing that can be done. So they must be disposed of properly.
The right way to store your rapid rooters’ plug is in an airtight container such as Ziploc bags. One other occurrence you may notice when you open your rapid rooter package is to find them very dry. They have not turned bad in this case. You can fix them by simply immerse them in some water to re-hydrate them. Also, apply nutrients to them.
FAQ’s
Are Rapid Rooter plugs organic?
Rapid Rooter Plugs are not organic. They are made with materials that are commonly found in our environment. Rapid Rooter plugs are made from natural products.
Are rapid rooters reusable?
Rapid rooting is used to quickly and easily root cuttings and seedlings in containers. It speeds up the process of root formation. After rooting, the plant can be transferred into its final container or planted directly in the garden.
If you’re using plastic plugs, you must remove all of the plug from the pot and then reuse it on another plant. The plastic plugs on Amazon are really cheap, they can be reused on many plants. When you put it in the pot, the soil is held in place.
What pH do you soak rapid rooters in?
This is what we used to soak them in and what most of the nurseries use. However, some people have had success soaking them in a different pH than 6.
How do you grow seeds from a plug?
It is best to grow plants from seed directly in the soil. There are exceptions, such as seedlings that need to be potted up before they can go outside. But generally, it’s easier to plant seeds in soil than to plant plugs in soil.
If you want to plant a plug in soil, you’ll need to take the plug out of its pot, place it in a container of soil, and water well.
Can I put Rapid Rooter in soil?
Yes, you can use it in the soil. You will need to do a little preparation before applying this product to the soil. How long does it take for the root to start growing? When it is applied, the root will start growing within one to two hours. The roots will start growing very rapidly and will start to grow into the soil. After 2-4 weeks, the root system will be fully developed and it will not require further maintenance.
How do I apply Rapid Rooter? Apply Rapid Rooter to the soil with a trowel or shovel. Spread it on top of the soil using a hand spreader. Mix it with the soil using a hand spreader. How often should I apply Rapid Rooter? Apply Rapid Rooter at least once a year. The best time to apply this product is in spring and fall. It is recommended that you apply the product twice during the season. If you are applying it in spring, apply it in March. If you are applying it in fall, apply it in September.
Conclusion On What Are Rapid Rooters Made Of?
Rapid rooters plugs are made of sponge-like materials and are also composed of entirely natural soil-less organic grow plugs. They are perfect for seed germination and plant cuttings propagation. You can as well use them for your hydroponics system as a growing medium.
Using rapid rooter in your Garden will make things easier because they will easily take in water and nutrient solutions. They will also provide the root of your plant with good air circulation. Therefore, they will encourage a healthy root system, especially in your seedlings. So, this will turn into offer great harvest and profitable one for your garden.
August 18, 2021
How Far Apart To Plant Pole Beans
Getting to know how far apart to plant your pole beans is one step to achieving maximum bean yields. Pole beans grow tall on climbing vines and it’s crucial you give them the appropriate spacing for the ease of gardening.
Growing beans plants in your garden will offer you great benefits such as a large quantity of yield. You also enjoy their amazing flavor and pleasant health benefits.
Proper spacing of pole beans gives you the ease of harvesting during the end of their bountiful harvest time. So, let’s find out how far apart to plant our pole beans.
Planting Pole Beans
Pole bean is a type of green beans crop. Generally, there are two types of green beans growing styles you can plant and they are pole and bush. Pole beans grow about 5 to 6 feet or even more. Therefore, pole beans require trellis or staking. On the other hand, bush beans will only grow about one foot or two feet.
These two green beans are all climbers and both require slightly different care. But in this article, we will be focusing more on pole beans. Let’s go further to know when is the best time to grow pole beans.
When To Plant Pole Beans
Pole beans should be planted after the danger of frost has elapsed. Thus, they can be planted around spring or early summer.
Pole Bean Planting Instructions
It’s pretty easy planting pole beans and you will enjoy a great harvest if you plant them the right way. Below are the steps to planting them:
Step 1- Sow your seeds
Beans generally are tender legumes. They don’t thrive well when transplanted because of their fragile roots. Therefore, germinating their seeds indoors may not be advisable.
So, the best way to plant your pole beans is to sow them directly into your soil. Make sure you push the seeds into the soil to about one or one and a half inches deep.
Step 2- Pole Beans Spacing
How far apart you should plant your pole beans seeds should be about 4 to 8 inches to about 3 or 4 seeds. For rows, also plant about 3 to 4 seeds and space them 2 to 3 feet apart.
Step 3- Temperature
Generally, green seeds are warm-weather crops and will do well in air temperature around 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature is one crucial factor to consider when planting pole beans. The soil temperature in your garden should be around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, the surrounding air should be around this temperature range. This will promote quick germination and prevent root rot.
Step 4- Trellis or teepee support
As your pole beans grow tall or vertically, they will require support. Thus, your pole beans will need trellis or teepee for support. If you want to make use of a teepee, obtain about 3 long pole branches and they should be approximately 6 to 7 feet tall. Tie these 3 long poles together at the top and spread out the base of the support to form a circle.
Once your poles begin to grow tall and vines grow up, tie them up to the pole. This way, you are able to train your pole beans to continue twirling around the pole throughout their growing season.
More Tips To Growing Pole Beans
- Use Excellent Draining Soil: The soil you will be using to grow your pole beans should be well-draining. Well-draining soil will help prevent root rot and powdery mildew. They should also be filled with lots of organic amendments so you can enjoy bountiful yield at the end of the harvest.
- Sunlight: Supply your pole beans with a full direct sun of about 6 to 8 hours per day. The temperature should be around 60 degrees Fahrenheit preferably. However, avoid too high temperatures as this can predispose your pole beans flower to start dropping. Therefore, whenever there is high heat, we recommend using row covers to shield your beans plant.
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- Water Appropriately: Your pole beans need to be watered the right way and avoid overwatering. Watering should be applied directly to the soil to maintain good moisture and avoid drying out of the soil. Water 2 inches deep every week.
- Mulching: We recommend mulching your soil to your bean plant. This will maintain warm soil, prevent drying out of the soil and also minimize weed. So, your plant can flourish and produce great yields.
- Soil pH: The appropriate soil pH for pole beans is slightly acidic and the pH should be around 6.0.
- Nutrient Application: Your pole beans will require a bit of fertilizer. You should add your fertilizer before planting your pole beans.
- Pest & Disease Control: You can prevent diseases such as mildew by maintaining adequate air circulation between vines. Whenever you spot big insects, you can simply pick them off by hand. Then aphids can be removed by water or using neem oil.
Harvesting Pole Beans
Bean plants tend to produce bountiful yields and you can obtain a yield of several pounds of beans from just a single bean plant. For pole beans most varieties, you should expect your first harvest around 60 to 70 days.
You can start to harvest your pole beans once you notice the pods are full and swollen. Ideally, you should pick your beans every 3 to 5 days as this will help prevent you from harvesting older beans. Older beans tend to be woody and bitter.
We encourage you to harvest your pole beans consistently as this will encourage new flowers. This will also enhance your vines to live longer.
How far apart are bean poles?
When planting bean seeds, it is best to space the rows about 1/2 the length of a bean seed. For example, if the row spacing is 6 inches and the seeds are about 1/4 inch long, then the space between the rows should be 3 inches. Seeds should be planted about twice as deep as they are wide.
How tall should pole bean trellis?
A six feet trellis should be fine.
What should not be planted near pole beans?
Pole beans are fairly easy to grow and are a great crop to have for a small garden.
Pole beans are a great nitrogen fixing crop. They will help to fix some of the nitrogen in the soil and convert it to nitrates that can be used by the crops you plant next. Pole beans are often planted as a cover crop after harvest and they can be pulled or cut at ground level. If you have a large area, you could consider planting a couple of different varieties.
However, onions, garlic and chives should not be planted near pole beans.
Will pole beans climb string?
They’ll climb, but not much. If you plant them right next to the supports, then they won’t grow taller than 2 feet.If you use trellis supports, you could probably get them to grow a little taller than that.
Can you grow pole beans on a fence?
If you have a fence (wood or metal) and the pole beans are only planted within the fence then they should be fine. They should not grow to high. If the fence is too low it might be hard for them to climb up.
Why are my pole beans not climbing?
Some varieties will climb if they’re in containers. You may need to stake them. Or transplant into larger containers so they’ll have room to grow. If they aren’t climbing, it’s probably because they’ve been transplanted and the roots haven’t established yet. I’d keep them for another week or two, then take a few out and look at the roots.
It might be a matter of the bean seeds being in the ground too long.
If there’s no soil movement, you need to get the soil moving. If you have any good tools for that (e.g. spade), then start digging, turn over the soil, till it down, etc.
Conclusion On How Far Apart To Plant Pole Beans
Growing pole beans will be an awesome addition to your garden. How far apart you should plant your pole beans should be around 4 to 8 inches for 3 to 4 seeds. While growing in rows, you should plant about 3 to 4 seeds and space them 2 to 3 feet apart. Remember to always support your climbing beans with stakes or trellis.
August 15, 2021
What Is An Action Spectrum
If you are wondering what an action spectrum is, we’ve got you covered here. Getting to know about the action spectrum in various plants will give you an idea of how plants make use of different lights for their development.
The lights we see consist of various wavelengths and light has a comprehensive relationship with plants. Plants will either absorb or reflect the different colors of the light spectrum. This absorption or reflection affects the process of photosynthesis that will determine how your plants process their food.
Now, let’s have a discussion about the role of the light absorption spectrum, light action spectrum, and how they are connected to photosynthesis. We will also talk about various plant pigments, their functions and, many more. So, let’s begin.
Absorption And Action Spectrum
Both absorption spectrum and action spectrum play a significant role in the plant process of photosynthesis. Let’s go further by looking at what these two entails and discuss more details on them.
What Is An Action Spectrum?
Firstly, let’s define what the action spectrum is. An action spectrum is an illustration (usually showed in a graph) that reveals the rate of photosynthesis at various light wavelengths. Thus, it illustrates the wavelength that propels photosynthesis.
Action spectrum was first discovered and titled by T.W. Engelmann when he was researching on algae Cladophora. The action spectrum gives an insight into the nature of the photoreceptor involved. It also helps us understand the differences between the absorption spectrum of a known pigment. Action spectrum will illustrate the usefulness or effectiveness of light in photosynthesis.
Maximum photosynthesis usually takes place in the red and blue light spectrum. Next, let’s take a look at what the action spectrum of photosynthesis is.
Photosynthesis Action Spectrum
The action spectrum of photosynthesis in any given plant will indicate high light absorption for red or violet and orange or red color spectrum. It will also show maximum light absorption in the blue region. However, it will indicate a low absorption rate for the green or yellow color spectrum.
The colors blue and violet on the light spectrum have the shortest wavelength and the highest energy. On the other hand, red has the longest wavelength and has the least amount of energy.
Absorption Spectrum
The absorption spectrum will indicate all the colors of light absorbed by a given plant. It describes the electromagnetic radiation range of plant absorption. It relies on the cellular and molecular structure of a plant. So, it varies depending on the plant species.
Pigments
The pigment is a common name used for a molecule that takes in or absorbs light with color. Also, we can term pigment as any chemical compound that assimilates visible radiation between 380 nm (which is violet) and 760 nm (which is red).
These pigments assimilate light rays from the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum known as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR).
Now, any type of colored substance generated by a plant is known as plant pigment. There are different pigments contained in plants and they result in the different colors we see. These plant pigments give rise to leaves’ color, flowers, as well as fruits. Now the most crucial function this pigment offers is control over the photosynthesis process with plants’ growth and development.
Plant pigments will only absorb the wavelength of light ranging from 700 nm to 400 nm. Now, this is the ideal PAR range for plants.
Below are the 3 major plant pigments that determine plant color:
Chlorophyll
This pigment is one of the most important in plants because it is directly involved in the plants’ photosynthesis. Their absorbing wavelength spectrum is 429 nm and 659 nm. They are also responsible for the violet-blue and orange-red colors.
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Carotenoid
They are accessory pigments. Involved indirectly in photosynthesis. Even though plants can’t photosynthesize with carotenoids, this pigment can still transfer the light energy they get down to chlorophyll.
Carotenoid pigments are photo-receptive agents that prevent harmful reactions. They are also responsible for the orange, bright yellow, and red colors in various plants, vegetables, and fruits.
Anthocyanins
This pigment plays a crucial role in the reproduction of plants. It as well helps by attracting pollinators and seed disperses. They are, however, not directly involved in the photosynthesis process. But just like carotenoids, they also help shield plants from harmful rays.
Absorption Spectrum Of Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll is a type of pigment and in nature, we have 6 types of chlorophyll. However, in plants, there are 2 major types of chlorophyll which are chlorophyll A and chlorophyll B. The region of the spectrum that plant chlorophyll absorbs differs for both chlorophylls A and B.
Chlorophyll A and B have different roles they play in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll A is the main pigment that is involved in photosynthesis. On the other hand, chlorophyll B is a supplementary pigment that receives light energy which it will pass to chlorophyll a.
The color spectrum that chlorophyll A absorbs is violet and orange. On the other hand, the color spectrum that chlorophyll B absorbs is blue and yellow. Both chlorophyll a and b hardly absorb the green spectrum. The green light is reflected rather than being absorbed. So, this results in the green color of most plants.
FAQ’s
What does action spectrum of photosynthesis indicate?
Photosynthesis is the process that provides the energy necessary for growth and development of plants and algae. The primary role of photosynthesis is to fix atmospheric CO~2~ into organic molecules, such as sugar or starch. Carbon is stored in plant tissues during the day and it is released at night to fuel respiration. Photosynthesis uses solar energy (in the form of photons) to create chemical energy from water and carbon dioxide.
Photosynthetic organisms absorb light energy from the environment in order to convert it into chemical energy. In plants, this is realized by the light-harvesting complex (LHC) II and the reaction center (RC). The RC is the part of LHCII that contains the primary quinone electron acceptor Q~A~.
The action spectrum is the distribution of photons that excite a biological reaction or process. The spectrum of the light that reaches the Earth’s surface is called the solar spectrum, and its shape is modified by absorption and scattering in the atmosphere and the Earth’s surface .
What action spectrum indicates is the rate of photosynthesis.
How does the light spectrum affect plant growth?
Plants need a certain amount of energy in order to grow and thrive. This energy is provided by the sun. The energy that plants receive from the sun varies depending on how the light spectrum is. This means that plants grown under different light spectrums will have different growth rates. Sunlight is composed of different wavelengths of light. The spectrum of sunlight can be broken down into three main categories: red, green and blue. These wavelengths are all present in sunlight but are more or less prominent depending on the time of day and the season. In general, the more intense the wavelength, the greater the energy of the light. The spectrum of sunlight has an effect on the growth rate of plants in a variety of ways. For example, plants grown under a red spectrum of sunlight grow faster than those grown under a blue spectrum. Red light causes the plant’s photosynthetic pigments to absorb more of the light, which leads to increased plant growth. The opposite is true for blue light. Blue light inhibits the photosynthetic pigments of plants, which decreases plant growth.
Additional Say On What Is An Action Spectrum
We hope by now you have been enlightened on what an action spectrum is and you can see the role they play in a plant’s photosynthetic process and developments.
Remember, the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll that determines photosynthesis lies in the blue and red regions. Also, light wavelengths within the range of 400 nm to 700 nm are utilized by plants for photosynthesis and this is the ideal PAR range.
August 12, 2021
Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically
Are you looking for the easiest plants to grow hydroponically? We’ve got the right answer for you here! We have listed 10 plants you can grow hydroponically, so read through to know your best pick.
Growing hydroponically gives you the benefit of enjoying fresh crops and lovely house plants all year round. No matter your location or the season you’re in, you and your family can enjoy fresh yield from hydroponic indoor gardening.
There are different varieties of plants that can be grown hydroponically, and they include vegetables, herbs, flowers, succulents, houseplants, and so on. So, go through our list of the easiest plants to grow hydroponically.
10 Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically
Most hydroponic growers especially beginners are usually interested in growing easy plants in their hydroponic garden so they can experience some early success. It’s a good thing to have a successful starting point when it comes to growing hydroponically. This will usually boost one’s interest and confidence.
So, here are the lists of some of the best hydroponics plants you can grow:
1.    Hydroponic Lettuce
One of the most popular and easiest plants that can be grown hydroponically is lettuce. They grow very rapidly and are they are so easy to care for. Lettuce loves water and requires less light, so it’s no surprise they are one of the most loved among hydroponic growers.
2.    Spinach
Spinach is another easy plant you can grow in your hydroponic garden. They are healthy leafy green veggies and they love cool conditions which makes hydroponic settings suitable for them.
3.    Cucumbers
Cucumbers are not left out on the easiest plants to grow hydroponically. Cucumber plants will grow in different hydroponic varieties such as ebb and flow, bubble buckets, and Dutch buckets. They can even grow well in a tower system. They can be grown by hobbyists and commercial growers.
Cucumber plants are excellent vining crops and water-loving. Vining cucumbers require support as they grow and you can use a trellis. The vine variety will as well require room, especially vertical space.
However, if you don’t have enough space, you can go for the bushy variety. Also, you should choose a cucumber variety that is resistant to mildew as cucumbers are pretty vulnerable to the disease.
4.    Tomatoes
Tomatoes are another great option and they are grown at home and in a commercial greenhouse. Just ensure you supply support as your tomatoes begin to fruit and weigh more. They will grow well in drip systems and hydroponic buckets (also called bubble buckets).
5.    Peppers
Just like tomatoes and cucumbers, growing peppers is easy with hydroponics. all you need do is to ensure they receive adequate sunlight or supply them with good grow light.
6.    Strawberries
One of the most common fruits grown hydroponically is the strawberries fruits. They can be grown in a small garden and in a large-scale commercial hydroponic farm. Strawberries grow very rapidly giving you plenty of yield at a better quality rate. They are also less likely to give you any pest issues.
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7.    Basil

Basil herb will also grow easily in hydroponics. The fastest and easiest method of getting started with basil is to purchase basil seedlings and you can get them at any garden center around you. Then you go ahead to transplant the seedlings into your hydroponic system. Ensure you rinse off the soil carefully and thoroughly before transplanting.
8.    Beans
Beans will grow rapidly and require less maintenance to grow at the same time giving you abundant yield. You can grow either the bushy or viny variety. If you are concerned about space and the stress of adding support as they grow, then you should stick with the bushy variety.
9. Carnation
A common flower that can be grown hydroponically is the carnation flower. They can be grown in homes or in a commercial way. Their floral arrangement is so inviting and growing plenty of them in your hydroponics garden can be pretty lucrative.
10.    Watercress
From the name, we can tell this plant is a water-loving plant. It is commonly known to be vegetables; however, their flowers are quite edible. If you want your watercress plant to transition into the flowering phase, you will require changing the nutrient to a flowering nutrient solution. Do this when the plant has grown halfway into its vegetative phase.
Tips For Growing The Best Plants For Hydroponics
Once you have decided the appropriate plants to grow hydroponically, you can follow these tips to guide you to grow appropriately:
- - Grow and supply your plants with good lightning.
  - The pH level of your nutrient solutions should be at the appropriate range so nutrients can be absorbed appropriately for plants growth.
  - Plants that have the same needs can be grouped and grown together. Plants such as tomatoes and tomatoes together or spinach and lettuce.
  - Always support heavy viny plants with trellis as their weight gets overwhelmed.
  - If you’re growing for cooking purposes, have in mind that a hydroponic system will produce a lot. So, ensure you plant only a couple of plants so the yield won’t be so excessive and there is minimal waste.
  - Ensure you carefully and thoroughly rinse off any soil to transplant any young plants or seedlings.
FAQ’s
What is the easiest plants to grow in hydroponics?
When it comes to growing plants in hydroponics, you have a lot of choices. You can grow your plants with soil, rockwool or vermiculite. If you are just starting out and want to grow your first plant in hydroponics, you should consider growing tomatoes. They are easy to grow and there are many varieties of tomato plants that can grow well in hydroponics.
1. Sweet Potatoes – grows quickly and requires no soil at all.
2. Radishes – I think radishes will grow anywhere. They’re cheap to buy.
3. Lettuce – You can get a small bag of lettuce seeds .for less than $
4. Kale – grows like crazy.
5. Peppers – I bought some peppers for $.99 each at Wal-Mart. I think they would be good in a hydroponic system.
6. Parsley has been grown hydroponically for decades and is easy to grow. It is a hardy perennial that can be harvested all year long. Parsley can be grown as a cut flower or an annual vegetable.
What plants cannot be grown hydroponically?
It’s not easy to grow plants without soil. And, it’s even harder to grow them in a way that doesn’t require you to use potting soil or some kind of nutrient solution.
Hydroponic gardening is a great way to grow plants in an environment that is more like the natural environment. If you have access to a greenhouse, or even a garage with a lot of sun and air circulation, you can use this method to grow a large number of plants. There are certain plants that cannot be grown hydroponically. The reason is that the roots will rot and die if the roots are not getting adequate water and oxygen.
For starters, there are a few plants that simply don’t like the conditions inside a plastic or glass container. These include cucumbers, lettuce, and eggplants.
Can tomatoes grow hydroponically?
Tomatoes are very easy to grow and can be grown in most any type of container including plastic pots, so you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started. There are several ways to start your own garden. You can buy a ready-made kit from a local nursery or you can build a grow box yourself. If you decide to build your own grow box, you can use a simple plastic bucket with a lid and some growing medium to start your tomato plants. The next step is to add the soil that your tomato plants will grow in. If you plan on growing several different types of tomatoes, then you may want to purchase a large container for your growing medium. This will allow you to grow a wide variety of tomatoes. Once your grow box is complete, you can plant your seedlings into it. You should water your seedlings after planting them in your hydroponic grow box.
Final Say On Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically
We have so many options of good plants for hydroponics. However, starting with the easiest plants will make things easier especially if you’re new to the world of hydroponics. This is because some plants require technical skills and knowledge while others are pretty easy.
Once you have learned and perfected growing some easy plants with your hydroponics system, you can then proceed to expand and work on new plants.
All in all, ensure you have fun while growing hydroponically because growing the hydroponic way is a fun thing to do.
July 30, 2021
LED Light Distance From Canopy
If you’re into indoor gardening, you should know that using grow lights is one key to growing successfully. One of the best grow lights to use is the LED lights and another important criterion is the grow light hanging distance. So, if you’re wondering what LED light distance from the canopy is ideal, we’ve got the answer for you here.
If you position some grow lights too low to your plants’ canopy, they might burn your plants. On the other hand, if you hang them too high, they will grow weak and get stretched because they aren’t receiving adequate light intensity.
This is why you must be enlightened on the right hanging distance from your plants’ canopy. So, let’s get right into it.
Grow Light Height
We have various grow lights in the market and you need to know exactly the type you have and their features. We have light-emitting diodes (LED) lights, high-intensity discharge light (HID), fluorescent lights, and so on.
Each of these lights has its different characteristics. Some emit more heat and some emit lesser heat. Also, some of these grow lights offer a better spectrum than the other, and so on. But generally, LED grow light is known to emit minimal heat. This doesn’t mean LED lights can be hung very close to your plants as their spectrum can be very overwhelming and may cause your plant to bleach.
Each of these lights needs to be positioned at different heights from your plants’ canopy. So, let’s take a look at the LED light distance from your plants’ canopy.
Know The Right LED Light Distance From Your Plants’ Canopy
Now, let’s look at how close your LED grow lights should be to your plants. It may be a little tricky deciding what distance your LED light should be from your plants’ canopy. This is because all the various LED light brands vary.
However, you can look through and follow the manufacturers’ manual first to see how your plants fair. After trying the manufacturers’ LED light distance instruction and you feel there’s a need to readjust your light, you can go ahead and do so.
But let’s take a look at some general tips and requirements you can use in deciding the LED light distance from your plants’ canopy:
- A general rule advises you to position your LED grow light 12 to 30 inches from your plant canopy.
- LED light distance also varies with your grow light wattage and how powerful the light source is. A higher light wattage that has a powerful light source should be hung far from the plants’ canopy and vice versa.
- The type of plants (either low light or high light plant requirement) will determine the distance of your LED grow light. Low light requiring plants can have their light placed high above the canopy and high requiring plants can have their light placed close to the plant.
- Another criterion to deciding how to hang your LED grow light is reflective walls. Using reflective walls will reflect the light back to your plants thus limiting light loss from placing the grow light high. Therefore, you can position your LED light higher and not worry about light loss because they will mostly be reflected back to within your grow room or tent.
How Far Should LED Grow Lights Be From Plants In Each Growth Stage
Again, you should have in mind that when it comes to LED light placements, there’s no general rule. Different LED lights have their style and manufacturers’ instruction which should be tried first. So, we can now go into how far LED lights placement should be for each growth stage.
For various plant stages, LED light placement will differ as your plant transition. If you’re using dimmable LED lights, you can simply dim the intensity for different stages. However, if you’re not making use of a dimmable LED grow light, then you have to adjust the heights as your plant transitions to different stages.
So here are the LED Light placements suggestions for your various plant stages:
1.    LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Seedling Stage
The seedling stage of a plant is its most fragile stage. Thus, they will require a gentler light approach. This implies they require a lesser light intensity at their early stage and should be placed higher from the seedlings canopy.
We recommend you do a canopy distance of about 24 to 36 inches and this will depend on the strength of your LED grow light. As your seedlings begin to germinate, you can now move your grow light closer. This will be around 2 or 3 weeks after they have started sprouting.
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2.    LED Light Placement For Vegetative Stage
During the vegetative phase, your LED light should be placed closer to the plant canopy. They will require light for photosynthesis and plant maturation. Increasing their light intensity at this stage will encourage strong and healthy stems and roots.
3.    LED Light Placement For Flowering Stage
The final stage of the plant growth cycle is the flowering stage and this is where fruit production commences. At this stage, your plant will require the LED light should be at their highest intensity for them to harden off.
However, as you increase the LED light intensity by bringing it close to your plant. You want to keep a close eye on them. Your plants’ response will always indicate their satisfaction or displeasure with light intensity. So, do the right adjustments immediately you notice any changes in your plants.
LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Clones
For LED light distance for your clones, you will need to place them closer to your plants’ canopy. This is because clones require intense light for their development.
You can position your LED grow light around 14 to 36 inches from your plants’ canopy. This distance will depend on the strength of your light and their maturity.

FAQ’s
How close should my LED light be to my plants?
It depends on your situation. There are many factors involved in growing plants. How much sunlight do you have? What kind of plants do you want to grow? What size do they need to be? Do you want to grow them in soil or hydroponics? Do you want them to grow tall or short? Some plants need lots of sun to get their nutrients, some need less.
I would say to start small. You don’t want to get in over your head and end up in a situation where you have no idea what you’re doing. You can always add more later, if you find you need it. LED lights are generally used for indoor growing, as they are cheaper than natural lighting and can be controlled to adjust the amount of light that they give off. There are different kinds of LED lights, but the most common type is an LED strip light.
I would say your lights should be at least 18 inches above the tops of the plants. You can adjust this as you see fit. However, this does not mean that you need to put the light exactly 18 inches up from the top of the plants, or even from the bottom of the pots. The more distance you have between the plant and the light, the better. It will also be a lot easier to move the lights around when they are further away from the plants. I would say your lights should be at least 18 inches above the tops of the plants. You can adjust this as you see fit. However, this does not mean that you need to put the light exactly 18 inches up from the top of the plants, or even from the bottom of the pots. The more distance you have between the plant and the light, the better. It will also be a lot easier to move the lights around when they are further away from the plants.
How high should my lights be above my plants?
Lights are an important part of the growing process. If you don’t have enough light, your plants will grow slowly and not develop their full potential. The light must be as close to the plant as possible.
This means that if you are using a fluorescent or HID fixture, you want to raise the fixture at least 12 inches above the soil level. If you are using a T5 or T8 fluorescent, you want to raise the fixture at least 18 inches above the soil level. If you are using a metal halide or high-pressure sodium, you want to raise it at least 6 inches above the soil level.
Do plants grow faster under 24 hours of light?
No. The reason why they don’t grow faster is that plants have an internal clock, which regulates their growth and development according to the length of day. Plants are designed so that they can develop optimally with day lengths between 12 and 14 hours.A 24-hour day will prevent them from growing at their optimum speed. Plants have a circadian rhythm that regulates their growth and development according to the length of day.
LED Light Distance From Canopy Final Thoughts
The hanging distance for your LED light is crucial to your plants’ development. Ensure you get the correct LED light placement for your plants so they can flourish and won’t miss out on the best yield.
July 26, 2021
Grow Light Vs Regular Light
More people are indulging in indoor gardening and creating the ideal growing environment will enhance the growth of your indoor plants. Understanding the difference between grow light vs regular light is important so you can provide your indoor plants’ lights for their growing needs.
Both lights will supply your plants with lights but the light intensity or efficiency they will supply your plants are dissimilar. So grow lights and regular lights are designed in a different manner.
If you’ve ever wondered about what difference is there between grow light vs. regular light, we will enlighten you in this post. So, let’s begin.
What Is A Grow Light?
Before we look into grow light vs. regular light, let’s firstly discuss what a grow light is. A grow light is referred to as an electrical light specially designed to grow various plants. The primary function of grow light is to imitate the work done by sunlight which will ensure your indoor plants grow adequately.
These grow lights emit specific colors that stimulate plants’ growth. However, not all lights are designed to produce the same light spectrum and they all have a different wavelength of light.
So, some people may wonder if grow lights can be replaced with the regular lights we use at the home, office, etc. Well, the answer is yes, while in some cases it’s no.
What Are Regular Lights?
We have a wide range of regular lights which are basically designed as an artificial light source for illuminating dark spaces. People make use of regular lights almost on a daily basis and they help us clearly in the dark.
They are used to lighten up a room, office, etc as the sun begins to set and as the day goes dark. Regular lights are also used in the garage, the entrance of your door. Some are even used within your vehicles and so on.
Grow Light vs. Regular Light
It is possible to make use of both grow light and regular lights bulbs to grow your indoor plants. But what is the difference between grow light vs. regular light? Here are some comparisons between the two lights:
1.    The Intensity Of Power Between Grow Lights Vs Regular Lights
When it comes to power or light intensity, grow lights offer more power than a regular light bulb. You can find various grow lights with different light intensities in the market.
Now, light intensity is needed to enhance the rate of photosynthesis. This guarantees that your plants have adequate light energy to grow. So it is paramount you provide your plants with the right dose of power intensity.
2.    Spectrum Of Light
Light comprises of different wavelength that makes up the spectrum of light. So, all types of light bulbs produce a certain wavelength. However, not all types of light bulbs will produce the appropriate wavelength that will mimic the sunlight which is required for plants’ growth.
Most grow lights are specially designed to emit the right wavelength that will enhance almost all the growth stages of your plant. However, when it comes to a regular light bulb, they may only be efficient for certain growth stages of your plant.
3.    Heat Dissipation
Heat is an important factor to consider when deciding the type of grow light to use on your indoor plant. If the heat emitted is too much and placed close to your plant, it can cause harm to them. However, you can position your lights at a safe distance from your plants.
The fact is most regular lights produce more heat compared to grow lights. So, if you’re using regular lights for growing, ensure you position them at a safe distance.
4.    Durability
The durability of grow light is usually shorter compared to regular light. This is because grow light tends to burn out quickly.
5.    Energy Efficiency
Most regular light bulbs are energy efficient. On the other hand, most grow light will consume a lot of energy. However, there are certain low energy consuming grow lights you can go for.
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Different Grow Lights
We have 3 main types of grow lights and they include:
1. Fluorescent Grow Light
Fluorescent grow light is one great light used to supply light energy spectrum to indoor plants. They are low emitting light, thus making them safe to be placed close to plants. The low emitting heat fluorescent light is also suitable for fragile seedlings and clones.
However, most fluorescent lights are not as intense as HPS or LED lights but they will do a fine job with your growing plants.
1. Light-emitting Diodes (LED)
Light-emitting diodes are one of the most efficient grow lights you can use for your indoor plants. They are more focused and will give your plants optimal light intensity. LED grow light will supply your plant with a wide range of light spectrum for them to grow adequately.
The light can even be positioned a little far from plants and still give your plant good lightning.
1. High-Pressure Sodium (HPS)
High-pressure sodium is also known as high-intensity discharge (HID) is another type of grow light you can use for your indoor plants. Although they will require much distance from plants because of their high emitting heat, they will still supply your plant with good lights for their growing needs.
Other Types Of Grow Light
- - Incandescent Bulb: this type of light has been in existence for a long time. Incandescent bulbs are not so great because the light spectrum they produce is inefficient for plants’ growth. Thus, they aren’t appropriate for plants, especially during photosynthesis. However, they have been replaced with more efficient, durable, and safer options.
  - Halogen: halogen lights are not so great but they will still supply your plant what they need to grow.
FAQ’s
Can I Use a regular light as a grow light?
Regular bulbs are fine for growing plants, but they’re not very efficient. The efficiency of the plant growth is directly related to the amount of light you put out and the length of time you expose the plants to that light. You can get a lot more bang per watt with an LED array or fluorescent tube. LEDs are a bit more expensive, but if you’re trying to save money (which is understandable) then LEDs will be your best bet. You’ll probably want to look for a fixture that mounts the light on a heat sink, so you can get a little extra cooling for your plants.
Can any LED light be used as a grow light?
In general, no. LEDs have a maximum current rating (for most), which means they cannot be operated at high power levels (which is the only way to get high light output). That said, you can certainly use LEDs in an environment that doesn’t require very high power, but they’re not really intended for that purpose.
Is a grow light better than natural light?
When you’re growing plants indoors, you don’t want to be dependent on the sun. There are a few options for indoor gardeners who need sunlight to help with their plant growth. A grow light is one of them. Grow lights are used to mimic the conditions found in nature, which makes it an ideal option for growing plants indoors. Grow lights allow you to use artificial lighting, which makes it a much more practical option than natural sunlight. This also means that you can have full control over when you turn your lights on and off. You can choose to turn your lights on during the day or at night, which gives you the best time to work with your plants. Grow lights also mimic the natural light cycle. Plants respond to changes in the natural light cycle by growing at different times of the day. By using grow lights, you can make sure that your plants get the right amount of light.
Whats the difference between a grow light and a regular light?
The big difference is that in a grow light, the spectrum of the light is tuned to the needs of a plant to stimulate photosynthesis. This means that the reds are higher, the blues lower, and the greens in between. It’s not the same as a regular light which has a continuous spectrum.
The light spectrum for plants is more like that of the sun than a regular light. And the way that it works is that the blue part of the spectrum (which is the part of the light that plants need to grow) is stronger than the red part.
Grow Light Vs. Regular Light: Conclusion
Grow light and regular light are definitely two different lights that perform different functions.
Grow lights are designed for plants needs while regular lights are meant for daily use in most homes. But regular lights can still provide a certain light spectrum for plants’ growth but they aren’t as efficient as grow light.
July 26, 2021
How To Pick Basil
Did you know there’s a right way to harvest basil to ensure they flourish and you get to enjoy continuous yield? That’s right! So, learning how to pick basil the right way is important and we will teach you how.
The sweet aromatic and tasteful basil is one popular herb loved by many. It is a culinary herb that any kitchen lover can use for various dishes. The tasteful basil herb is even more distinguishable when grown and used fresh from the garden. Therefore, you would agree that it’s a must-have in every garden.
When growing basil plants, how you pick them matters and we will enlighten you on this. So continue reading to find out.
Growing Basil Plants
There are different varieties of basil to grow, but sweet basil is the most common type of basil grown. Other types of basil include Thai basil, cinnamon basil, purple basil, lemon basil, etc.
Basil plants can be grown both hydroponically and in an outdoor garden. However, it will only grow outdoors during summer when the soil is warm. But with hydroponics, you can grow them all year round.
Planting Basil
To commence basil planting, get your seeds and plant them. You can plant them indoors if you wish. Preferably, you should plant them 6 weeks before the last spring frost. They are pretty frost sensitive so ensure you insulate them during freezing temperatures or bring them indoors if you’re growing with a container.
Once the seedlings have begun yielding their first 6 leaves, trim them to the top of their second set of leaves. This will stimulate your basil plant to start branching. Thus, this will encourage the multiplication of leaves for an abundant harvest.
Pinch off the middle shoot once it’s 6 weeks as this will prevent early flowering. And if you notice any flowers growing, simply cut them off so that the vegetative process will keep ongoing.
Basil can be grown in flower beds or containers. For outdoors planting, ensure the soil has warmed up to about 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is crucial because heat is necessary for the growth of your basil. Choose a sunny location to plant your basil and target 6 to 8 hours full or partial sun daily.
Read more about How Many Basil Plants Per Pot?
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Moisture is another important factor in planting basil. Basil plant loves moisture so ensure the soil is well moist but not soggy and ensure the soil should be well-draining.
Avoid using pesticides on your basil if they’re meant for cooking as this can produce unhealthy basil leaves to be consumed. Also, avoid planting them close to a driveway or busy streets to prevent exhaust from settling on your plants.
Once, the freezing temperature approaches, harvest your basil plants because your plants will be destroyed during this period.
Best Way To Harvest Basil
The following guidelines will teach you how to pick basil correctly so read on to learn.
Best Time For Picking Basil
It’s fine to pick basil any time of the day. However, morning is the best time to harvest basil but that does not stop you from harvesting them at period.
Learning How To Pick Basil
When you harvest your basil plants the appropriate way, you’re encouraging a fuller and bountiful subsequent harvest.
Once your basil plant attains the length of 6 inches, that’s the right time to harvest: ensure your basil plant does not exceed 8 inches.
Pick your basil from stem to stem and avoid cutting off the stem. Be gentle as you pinch off the leaves from the stem they are attached to. Avoid using sharp tools to cut the leaves only if you will be careful enough from injuring the stem.
Ensure you always pick the leaves from time to time to enhance more growth. However, you should avoid picking the basil leaves from the bottom stem to prevent your plant from being thin and tall as this will not encourage a healthy production.
Don’t stop harvesting even if you don’t need the basil leaves so as to encourage continuous growth. You can pick and store the basil leaves for later use. Pinch off or remove any flower bud or flower so your basil plant can grow more leaves rather than flowers.
When their growing season has ended, (this is before the first frost) you can cut the stem off the ground. Harvest all your basil and bring them indoors for cooking. The excess basil leaves should be preserved for later use.
Read more about Transferring Soil Plants to Hydroponic
Storing Basil Leaves
It is important you also learn how to store basil correctly. This is because it’s likely you pick the leaves regularly and excess basil might remain and you won’t want to just throw the excess basil away. So here are the two ways you can store your basil leaves:
- Freezing: To store your basil leaves appropriately, you will need to freeze them. When you freeze them, they remain fresh and most of their tasty flavor is kept intact. You will need to pack them in a resalable airtight plastic bag to store them. Then you proceed to place them in the freezer.
- Drying: Drying is another method of storing your excess basil leaves. However, some flavor will be lost in this process. You can dry your basil by spreading them in a shady area for 3 or 4 days. If you have done this after 3 or 4 days and they aren’t dried completely, you can finish drying them in the oven. Simply turn your oven to the lowest heat and leave the door slightly open. Turn them regularly for an even drying till you achieve all your basil leaves all dried. When they are done drying, put them in a dry paper bag and keep them in a warm place like your kitchen cupboard.
- Storing Fresh Basil In Water: If you wish to cut the stem of your basil, you can place them inside a glass jar. Keep them out of direct sunlight and they will last you up to two weeks.
FAQ’s
How do you pick basil so it keeps growing?
The secret to success is to pick basil when it’s at its best, and then leave it alone. But you don’t have to wait until you see a whole bunch of leaves to pick your basil. You can harvest a few leaves off the stems every few days to keep the plant healthy. And if you have a big pot, you can harvest as many leaves as you want from the center of the plant.
How do you keep basil from getting too big?
There are several ways to keep basil plants from getting too big. You can pinch off the side shoots as they appear. Or you can cut off the top of the plant when it reaches 6 inches tall. Or you can wait until the plant gets bigger and then use pruning shears to remove the center stems.
Do you pick fresh basil from the top or bottom?
The best and freshest basil is picked from the top of the plant. In other words, it is picked at the stem end.
How do you pick basil without killing it?
The most common way to select a bunch of basil for your cooking is to look for the greenest leaves. If they are not quite as dark green as the leaves of a leek, or if the leaves have started to yellow, they are probably ready to be picked. The other method is to smell the leaves. If the scent is sweet, like that of oregano, they are ready to use.
When can I pick basil leaves?
The plant itself doesn’t have an ‘exact’ time when it will be ready to harvest. In general, as long as the leaves are still green (unripe), you can harvest them.
You can start harvesting basil as soon as the weather is warm enough to grow it outside. As long as it’s not too hot or cold, you should be able to get some good leaves from your plants.
How do I know if my basil plant needs to be watered?
Basil doesn’t like hot and dry weather.
When the air is hot and dry, your basil may wilt and look sickly. You can help your plant by giving it a drink of water. If you see that your plant looks pale or droopy, give it another drink of water.
How do I keep basil from getting moldy?
Basil plants can get moldy in the summer months when the weather is very hot and humid. You can prevent this problem by keeping your basil in a place where the temperature stays cool, like a basement or a garage. You should also make sure your basil has plenty of moisture by watering it regularly.
How To Pick Basil: Conclusion
As we can see there are great benefits to picking your basil the appropriate way. Follow our guidelines on how to pick basil and enjoy a continuous harvest of the tasteful basil herb.
July 25, 2021