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Category: Tips & Guides

  • COB vs SMD LED For Growing

    COB vs SMD LED For Growing

    Let’s discuss COB vs SMD LED for growing plants. In the grow light technology, there has been continuous improvement in various LED lights to offer a better yield.

    LED lights are very popular and preferred by many indoor growers because of their durability and efficiency. They are also less power-consuming. However, not all LED models are the same. There are different models of LED in the market today which COB and SMD are one of them. But what differentiates these two great LED models? We will be discussing what COB vs SMD LED will offer your plants for their growing needs. So, continue reading to be informed.

    COB Grow Light

    First, we define what COB LED grow light design is. COB which stands for Chip On Board and it is one of the most recent LED light technology developed. COB is known to be more heat efficient and offers better or quality lumen per wattage. This is thanks to the great COB LED design as well as the substrate chips of their cooling ceramic.

    They are built with many or multiple diodes on are a single surface. COB designs are a little similar to SMD, however, COB has more diodes.

    COB Grow Light

    Usually, the chips of COB have 9 or more diodes and in these multiple diodes, they have only 1 or 2 contact circuits. Thus, this results in a simple circuit design that allows them to have that panel-like appearance.

    COB LED grow lights are so energy efficient that they can generate a large amount of lumen using less energy. They work as a single strong light source and in some instances; a single COB can make up a whole fixture.

    Full Spectrum COB LED

    The COB LED grow light offers a complete spectrum which is required by your plants to flourish. The complete spectrum is tailored to suit your plants’ development.

    This full spectrum gives different wavelengths of light as your plant grows. Each color spectrum will prompt your plant to carry out various tasks that are associated with your plants’ growth.

    For example, red light enhances budding and encourages better yield in the flowering stage of a plant. While blue light enhances root development and vegetation. These two are the most important color spectrum, however, other colors of the light spectrum are as well absorbed.

    The only drawback we notice in this complete COB LED spectrum is that they are fixed spectrums. The spectrum mix cannot be changed unlike with the traditional SMD LED.

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    The COB LED spectrum is built by mixing a blend of phosphor which is used as a coating over the COB. This phosphor mix is then made to generate light. However, the SMD LED isn’t fixed and can be combined to generate a particular spectrum. The spectrum can be switched by simply dimming or increasing the different colors.

    SMD Grow Light

    SMD stands for Surface Mounted Device and this type of LED light is built to have a specific spectrum in each diode. They are one of the most common types of LED shared in the market as they are popular because of their flexibility.

    There is a fusion of the LED chip to its printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB in the SMD light is assembled on a rectangular-shaped flat surface and this is what is usually seen as SMD.

    Unlike COB that has just 1 or 2 contact circuits, SMD LED can have more than 2. However, their diodes are lesser which can be up to 3 or more. These diodes are built on a single chip and each of these diodes has its personal circuit. One cathode and one anode will go for each circuit. Thus, this gives rise to 2, 4, or even 6 contacts on a single chip.

    SMD LED light also offers high-efficiency output for lesser energy consumption. Thus, they will generate more lumen per watt for your growing plants. The SMD LED chips are very bright and can emit up to 50 to 100 lumen per wattage.

    SMD Grow Light

    COB vs. SMD LED For Growing

    We now have and a hint of what SMD LED vs COB LED is. So, we can now look into COB vs SMD LED for growing.

    Even though both SMD and COB LED lights are both efficient and will offer your plants great benefits, they still have their difference. Below, we have some comparison between COB vs. SMD LED for growing.

    1. Lumen per watt: both COB and SMD offer great lumen that will give your plant good brightness for their growing needs. However, COB offers a higher lumen per wattage ratio. COB can generate more amount of lumen using lesser energy consumption. They can generate a minimum of 80 lumens per watt and more, while SMD will offer about 50 to 100 lumens.
    2. Diodes: COB chips can have 9 or more diodes with 1 circuit and 2 contacts. While SMD can have up to 3 diodes on a single chip.
    3. Versatility: COB LED grow lights are not capable of producing color-changing lights or bulbs. They can only generate a single color effect. The reason being that they only have 2 contacts and 1 circuit but multiple channel adaptations are needed to generate that color-changing outcome. SMD on the other hand is more versatile because they can have up to 6 contacts on a chip. Thus SMD can generate any color it contains with just a simple adjustment in their output level.
    4. Brightness: both COB LED and SMD LED will offer you great brightness. However, COB LED offers more brightness than SMD LEDs.

    FAQ’s

    Which one is brighter, COB or SMD LED?

    LEDs are rated in terms of their forward current and luminous flux. They are also rated in terms of how much power they require. This means that the higher the forward current and the lower the power rating, the brighter the LED will be.

    So, for example, a 5W COB LED might have an average forward current of 5mA (that’s milliamperes), while a 3W SMD LED might have an average forward current of 30mA. Both would have an average luminous flux of about 2000 lumens (lumens is a unit of light that is equal to one lumen per one candela per second).

    If you want a brighter LED, then the one with the higher forward current (5mA) would be your best bet. If you want a brighter LED, then the one with the lower power rating (3W) would be your best bet.

    The 3W SMD LEDs are much more expensive, so it’s a trade-off between cost and brightness.

    The main difference between the two types of LED is that COB LEDs have a much higher luminous flux (i.e. brightness) than SMD LEDs. The COB LED has about 2 times the luminous flux of an SMD LED. In order to make sure that you get a similar amount of light from your LED, you can use a similar type of LED, just with different power ratings.

    Which is better for plants, COB or SMD LED?

    COB means that the LED’s are mounted to the substrate with a soldering process. SMD means that the LED’s are mounted to the PCB with a reflow process. So basically it comes down to a choice between a clean installation process, and a cheaper labor intensive process. The problem with SMD is that you can’t really control the orientation of the LED’s very well, which means that the light from the LED’s won’t be uniform. This is not a big deal for indoor grows, but it can be a problem when growing outdoors. It is also possible to use COB with high power LEDs, such as those found in fluorescent lights. SMD has several advantages over COB.

    The most important advantage is cost, since the SMD process is less labor intensive than the COB process. COB requires soldering of each LED, and requires the use of a flux, so it is more expensive. SMD doesn’t require any soldering, and there is no need for a flux. The other advantage to SMD is that you can install an array of SMD LED’s into a compact size package. This is an advantage when using LEDs in fluorescent lights, since a standard fluorescent light fixture only holds one or two SMD LED’s. The last advantage is that SMD is very easy to solder if you are experienced in soldering. COB requires that you have access to a soldering iron, which isn’t always available at a grow shop.

    Which one is more widely used?

    SMD is much more popular than COB, and it comes right down to a lower cost. It’s within reach of most people’s budgets?

    Do COB LED get hot?

    COB LEDs are typically more efficient than incandescent bulbs, and they also use less power, so they tend to get hotter than most other types of bulbs. However, they are not as hot as halogen bulbs or some CFLs.

    How much heat? Well, that depends on how much light you are putting out, and how much heat you are running off. The best solution would be to use a tent with a fan or air conditioner

    Conclusion On COB vs. SMD LED For Growing

    There’s no disputing that both COB and SMD are two great LED models you can use for your plant growing needs. They have their own unique features and we recommend you choose either of them based on your plant’s growing needs.

  • How To Make Rockwool Cubes

    How To Make Rockwool Cubes

    Rockwool is a great hydroponic grow media that offers excellent water retention as well as good air circulation. The rockwool cubes are used by hydroponic growers to start their seedlings and root their cuttings. So, if you’re wondering how to make rockwool cubes, we will enlighten you on this.

    It is one thing to buy ready-made rockwool plugs or starter cubes but do you know you can make some of these rockwool yourself? Making rockwool cubes will even cost lesser thereby saving you more. You also get more numbers of cubes at a lesser price.

    So, if you wish to learn how to make rockwool cubes for growing, read on to learn about this.

    Rockwool Cubes

    Rockwool is a natural product with a thick mat that comprises a long strand of natural fibers. They are formed by melting (at a very high temperature of 3000 degrees Fahrenheit) the combination of chalk and basalt rock to form lava. This lava is then tossed into a spinning chamber which forms the fibers that look like cotton candy.

    After spinning the fibers, a binding agent is used to mix and press them into bigger mats or slabs. It is these mats that are cut into different sizes and used as growing mediums in hydroponic systems.

    Rockwool Cubes

    So, because of this firing process, these rockwool cubes are biologically and chemically inert. This makes them a perfect growing medium for your hydroponics systems.

    Rockwool cubes are very efficient as grow medium because they will retain good moisture and also retain oxygen. This is essential for germinating seeds as well as cuttings for propagation. They are also used to grow various compact plants.

    Learn How To Make Rockwool Cubes

    Making your rockwool cube is a great idea to save up from excess cost. To make rockwool cubes, you need to obtain rockwool slabs. You can obtain them from large construction companies that buy in bulk and use them to your advantage as an indoor grower. You can also check any hydroponic supplies store for these slabs.

    Rockwool Growing Slabs

    Obtaining rockwool slabs will cost you lesser at the same time gives you plenty numbers of rockwool cubes to be used for planting. You can get almost 200 rockwool cubes from one rockwool slabs and they can be used for growing in rockwool slabs.

    So, after obtaining your rockwool slabs, pick one and make a cut along the middle length of the slab with a sharp knife or tool. Now that your slab has been cut into two, go ahead and cut them further into cubes. Cut the cubes according to the shapes you want.

    Learn How To Make Rockwool Cubes

    Once you’re done cutting the cubes, go ahead and soak and drain them in preparation of seed planting. You will need to make small holes or incision on the top of your rockwool grow cubes. This is to create the hole for your seed to be placed in. Then you go ahead and place your seeds into the holes for germination.

    Note: ensure you wear gloves and put a mask on while making or handling these slabs. Their dust or tiny fibers can become airborne and it’s important you prevent them from getting into your respiratory system.

    Benefits Of Using Rockwool Cubes

    There are many benefits to suing rockwool and they include:

    • Water Retention & Draining: Rockwool cubes are well-draining and overwatering issue is less likely to occur. At the same time, they will retain a good amount of water for your plant growing needs.
    • Air Circulation: they also allow adequate air to circulate thereby oxygenating the plant roots.
    • Reusable: Because they are derived from rock, they are less likely to degrade. Therefore, you can use them many times.
    • Sterile & Safe: They are very sterile and contain no pests or pathogens and they are free of weeds. They are also safe to use as they don’t contain any harmful chemicals.

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    How To Prepare Rockwool Cubes

    Rockwool cubes preparation is an important step to take when using these cubes. Because of the manner in which they are made or manufactured, unprepared rockwool cubes have a very high pH. There is presence of lime in abundance in the rockwool fibers which increases the pH and the pH is usually around 8.

    With this high pH, if used in your hydroponic system unprepared, they can cause nutrient lockout thereby causing a nutrient deficiency. Plants majorly do well in slightly acidic mediums. Therefore, lowering the pH of your rockwool cube is required.

    Rockwool Grow Preparations

    A good way of preparing rockwool cubes for the purpose of lowering their pH is by soaking them in acidic water. This acidic water will dissolve the lime present in the rockwool fibers thereby lowering the pH to an appropriate range.

    Distilled water will do just fine because of its purity. However, you can also make use of tap water if that’s what you have available.

    When reducing the pH of your rockwool, ensure you do it slowly while testing the Ph level at the same time. You want to attain a pH level of 5.5 and nothing lower than 5.0. Make sure the pH does not go down below 5.0. This is so you don’t destroy the rockwool fibers when it gets too acidic.

    The rockwool cube should be immersed in water and allowed to soak for up to 24 hours. Once you’re done soaking. Take them out of the water and gently place them into your hydroponics system. With the prepared rockwool in your system, let your hydroponics system run without any plants.

    Do this and wait until the pH of your hydroponic system reaches 5.0 to 6.0 ranges. This shows that the rockwool cube is stable and are ready for planting.

    FAQ’s

    What is rockwool for plants made of?

    Rockwool is a natural, organic material that is formed when water seeps into the cracks in stone. Over time, these stones turn into hard, porous rock with the consistency of cheese. The rockwool is collected from the quarry and processed to remove impurities. What is rockwool used for? Rockwool is one of the most popular growing media because it provides many benefits for plants.

    It’s a great choice for high-light and low-light environments, and it can be used indoors or out. Rockwool also provides air and moisture circulation, as well as good drainage. It’s an ideal growing medium for houseplants because it absorbs water, helps prevent soil from drying out, and is perfect for retaining water.

    Rockwool comes in several different shapes, sizes, and textures. The best types for houseplants are pebble, granule, and cube. 

    How do you prepare composting with rock wool cubes?

    The following is how to prepare rockwool cubes to help you get your compost started.

    Step 1: Collect your material

    If you want to use rockwool cubes to start your compost, you will need to collect a wide range of materials. This includes organic waste that you normally throw out, such as food scraps, paper, leaves, grass clippings, and weeds. It also includes animal manure that you have collected, such as chicken, horse, cow, or rabbit manure.

    Step 2:Remove the packaging

    If you are using rockwool cubes to start your compost, you should remove the packaging before placing it in the pile. This includes removing any labels that might say “do not compost” or “biodegradable only.” It also includes removing any plastic wrapping that you might have put around the rockwool cubes. You should remove this wrapping before putting the cubes into the pile.

    Step 3: Place the cubes in the pile

    If you want to use rockwool cubes to start your compost, you will need to place the cubes in the pile. When you are ready to do this, first make sure that the material that you collected is dry enough to make a good compost. Then, simply place the rockwool cubes into the pile and cover them with an additional layer of the material that you collected.

    Step 4: Start turning the pile

    If you want to use rockwool cubes to start your compost, you will need to start turning the pile. This means that you will need to periodically turn the pile by lifting the material and turning it over. This will help to expose more of the rockswool cubes to air and light. You should keep turning the pile until the material is completely dry.

    Step 5: Water Your Composting

    Compost can be water-logged if there is too much moisture in it, which can lead to problems like mold or rotting. To prevent this from happening, you need to keep your compost moist. This means that you should add water when you add the materials. You should then water the pile regularly. This will help to keep the compost healthy. When you want to use a compost bin, you can start using one right away.

    Final Say On How To Make Rockwool Cube

    Rockwool cubes are one favorite grow medium amongst hydroponic growers and they are available in different sizes and shapes. They are safe to use and they will provide your seeds or plants the basic features to grow optimally.

  • Adding Nutrients To Aquaponics

    Adding Nutrients To Aquaponics

    Aquaponics combines raising fish and growing crops in a system and the fish waste serves as the plant’s nutrient. The plants also filter the water for the fish. However, sometimes the fish waste that serves as a plant’s nutrient may not be enough, and adding nutrients to your aquaponics system may be required.

    This is why it is important you test your nutrient solution often to know if any nutrient addition will be necessary. This will help you prevent nutrient deficiencies in your aquaponics system. Adding nutrients to your aquaponics system when necessary will also boost the yield of your plants.

    So, continue reading to learn about adding nutrients to your aquaponics system.

    Aquaponics Nutrients

    Nutrients are essential for plants growth and as we said earlier, the fish in your aquaponics provides these nutrients. The fish food you feed your fish usually contains all the appropriate nutrients required by your plants and it’s been supplied to your plants from the fish waste.

    However, this fish waste may not contain the required nutrient quantity needed by your plants to grow efficiently. This is why supplemental nutrients may be required. So, adding nutrients to your aquaponics system is for the purpose of balancing the low level or low amount of nutrients provided by the fish food.

    Aquaponics Nutrients

    Testing

    Before we look into adding nutrients to your aquaponics, the first thing to do is to test your nutrient solutions. This will help determine which nutrients are deficient and if they need nutrient supplements. Also, you will be testing for temperatures, pH range, and electrical conductivity. All these parameters need to be tested in your aquaponics system for nutrients to be absorbed appropriately.  There are different testing kits available for you to be able to do all this required testing.

    • PH Range

    It is important for the pH level of your nutrient solution must be in range. This is required for optimal nutrient uptake by your plant and also for your fish survival.

    If the pH level is out of range, plants will be unable to absorb nutrients appropriately. This is in turn causes the water to be polluted as this prevents the ammonia from converting to nitrates. It can also expose your fish to diseases.

    • Temperatures

    When the temperature of your fish surrounding is too low or too high, it will cause your fish to become stressed. At the same time, it will affect your plants’ growth.

    Inappropriate temperatures range can as well cause harm to the beneficial bacteria responsible for the conversion of ammonia to nitrates. When this happens, it can be quite detrimental to your aquaponics system.

    • Electrical Conductivity

    Inappropriate electrical conductivity can slow the growth of your plants. Thus, decreasing the quality of your plant’s growth. It can also make the growth of your plant very fast which may be bad for some plants that will enter into the bolting phase quickly.

    Electrical Conductivity

    Aquaponics Nutrient Supplements: Adding Nutrients To Aquaponics

    The most common nutrient deficiency that usually occurs in an aquaponic system is calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorous, and magnesium. These are part of the most essential elements required in your aquaponics system.

    So, depending on the nutrient element missing, here are the following ways of adding nutrients to your aquaponics system:

    1. Calcium

    The calcium deficiency can be solved effectively by spraying calcium solution over your plants. Mix calcium chloride with water and start with 4 teaspoons per gallon. Afterward, you can up the dose if need be. Ensure you spray once every week.

    1. Phosphorus

    Using rock phosphate is one of the most easiest and common methods of adding phosphorous to your plants. Adding this supplement directly to your plant beds will allow for instant absorption. However, ensure you protect your plant bed from direct sunlight to get a successful result.

    Adding shellfish bones to your fish tanks can also increase the supply of phosphorous as well as calcium.

    1. Potassium

    Spraying and food additives are two ways of adding potassium to your aquaponics system. Spray potassium chloride onto your plants and repeat this process at least once a week. For food additives, add kelp meal concentrate to feed your fish. This will serve as a source of potassium.

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    1. Iron

    To supply iron to your plants, a type of iron that can be easily absorbed by your plant should be used. You can use chelated iron and one excellent type we recommend is the Fe-DTPA. When using this, ensure your pH range is 7.5 or lower.

    Aquaponics Nutrient Deficiencies: Symptoms

    The most common deficiencies that may occur in your aquaponics systems are that of potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorous, and magnesium. So, here are their symptoms:

    • Potassium Deficiency: the symptoms include wrinkled and cupped leaves and this is usually noticed in older leaves.

    • Phosphorous Deficiency: you may begin to notice the leaves’ veins turning purple color. Brown spotting on leaves and spindly growth may be another sign of phosphorous deficiency. Stunted growth especially during the early stage of plant growth can be another symptom of phosphorous deficiency.

    • Calcium Deficiency: deficiency in calcium will result in stunted growth and brown spotting on the young stem and on the leaves. You may also notice the leaves cupping and interveinal chlorosis. The plant that is a fruiting variety will exhibit blossom end rot.

    • Magnesium Deficiency: the symptom of magnesium deficiency is interveinal chlorosis that will begin from the older leaves. You may also notice some white to brown necrotic spots.

    • Iron Deficiency: deficiency of iron is very easy to discover. You will notice interveinal chlorosis on all the young growth of your plant. The severity of the interveinal chlorosis can be so obvious that it displays an almost white appearance in the affected plant area.

    FAQ’s

    Can you add nutrients to an aquaponics system?

    Aquaponics combines the two technologies of aquaculture and hydroponics. Aquaculture is a form of farming that relies on the capture and rearing of aquatic animals for food, while hydroponics uses the nutrient-rich water in which plants are grown to nourish them. In the past, aquaponics has been mostly used by small scale farmers to produce organic vegetables, but now it can be used in commercial settings as well. With its high efficiency, low maintenance, and high yield, aquaponics has become a viable option for urban dwellers who want to live green and healthy lives. If you want to add nutrients to your aquaponics system, you can.

    How do I add nitrogen to my aquaponics system?

    Nitrogen is added to the water in an aquaponic system, either through the use of fertilizers or by adding air that contains nitrogen. Adding a fertilizer with nitrogen can be done at any time during the growing season. The amount of fertilizer added will depend on how much of the crop you are planning to grow and how much fish you are planning to raise. Air containing nitrogen is typically available at all times but you may need to add it more often during the summer months.

    What type of fertilizers can I use in an aquaponic system? There are many different types of fertilizers for an aquaponic system. The most common ones are: Organic Fertilizers These fertilizers are usually derived from plant materials and are usually free of harmful chemicals and other substances. There are many different organic fertilizers available depending on what you are planning to grow and the crops you are raising.

    What plant deficiencies are common in aquaponics?

    Aquaponics is a fascinating and fun way to grow food. But it’s also a complex and high-maintenance hobby that requires some understanding of the basic science behind it, as well as knowledge about plants and nutrition. There are many different ways to use aquaponics, from small urban systems that can fit on a balcony or rooftop to large commercial systems that can be installed in a warehouse or even a factory.
    The key to successful aquaponics is finding the right balance between water and fish. The water needs to be shallow enough to keep the fish from drowning. But you also don’t want to let the fish out of their tanks so that they will be able to eat the plants. You should be able to see the bottom of the tank at all times, so that you know exactly what’s going on in there. You also need to be sure that your water supply is clean. This means that you shouldn’t use tap water. It should be treated with chemicals to kill any bacteria that may be in it.
     

    Conclusion

    The most common nutrient deficiency in aquaponics is iron. Adding nutrients to the aquaponics system is mostly required in large-scale operations. This is because most aquaponics systems will do well on their own without requiring supplemental nutrients.

    Always monitor the pH levels of your nutrient solutions so your plants can absorb nutrients appropriately.

  • What Size Net Pots To Use

    What Size Net Pots To Use

    What size of net pots to use in your hydroponic system may be one question bothering your mind. Not too worry because we’ve got the answer for you here.

    Growing with net pot is one crucial part in your hydroponics. Net pots will help support your plant as well as keeping the grow medium from clogging your system.

    Net pots come in different sizes which means not all of them are made the same way. For this reason, it is important you select the appropriate size that will suit your plant’s growing needs. So, this is why we will be answering what size of net pots to use for your hydroponic system.

    What Are Net Pots?

    Net pots are mini plastic pots made to have a net framework and they are mostly used in hydroponic systems. They are used to support the different plants in a hydroponic system and they are made from a firm plastic mesh. They will also help with drainage and good airflow in your hydroponics system.

    You can use net pots with or without growing media. With growing media, you can use rockwool, Hydroton pebbles, coco peat, and even soil.

    Net pots will allow you to move or relocate your plants comfortably without causing any damages. These net pots are mostly reusable and can be used to grow different plants in a hydroponic system.

    What Are Net Pots

    What Size Net Pots To Use For Hydroponics

    The size of your net pot matters in hydroponics. if you get the wrong net pot size, it can hinder the growth of your plants. Various net pot sizes are available for purchase with different shapes and sizes.

    The major sizes you may come across are 2, 3, 3.75, 5, and 6 inches net pot size. In order to choose the accurate net pot size, the first and most important thing is to consider the size of the plant you will be growing. Also, take account of how the plants’ full size and weight will be when they reach harvest time.

    Small plants and leafy greens will fit into small net pots. While bigger or heavier plants will fit bigger net pots and the bigger net pot will provide a bigger base to support your plants. Bigger net pots will as well hold your grow medium.

    The net pot size for some plants such as pepper and squash is 4 to 6 inches net cup. While the net pot size for lettuce is 2 inch net cup. If you can obtain a 1 and a half inch net cup for lettuce, that will be great. Other small herbs can also use 2 inch net cups.

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    Use Narrow Net Pot Sizes

    You should choose net pot size that the holes are narrow rather than wide. This is so your grow medium does not slip through any of these holes and into your system. If too much grow medium slips through the holes, they start to reduce and your plant does not get enough anchor that can hold them steady.

    Therefore, choosing a narrow net pot cracks will not only hold your grow medium better, but it will also provide adequate base support to hold your plant steady.

    Use Net Pot With More Lips

    Some net pot comes with a couple of lips while others come with many lips. Always purchase net pots that have more lips or cracks. This will help hold your plants upright (especially heavy plants).

    If you make use of a net pot with few lips, when your plants become heavy they are more likely to tip over into your system.

    The root ball of your plants will sit at the base of your net pots: while the roots will come out at the lips on the sides of your net pots. The net pots are usually hanged into the nutrient solution or they simply get misted by the water solution.

    Use Net Pot With More Lips

    However, if you’re using a NFT system where water will have to flow and pass the root, then your root should come out below the net cups. This is important for your plant to thrive when using the NFT system.

    Net Pot Lids

    When shopping for net pots, you should also add net pot lids to your list. Net pot lids are also important because they will help shield light from entering into your grow medium. Net pot lids are safe to use and they will not block light from reaching your plants.

    If light enters your grow medium that is already moist from nutrient solution, it can cause algae growth. So, to prevent this, use net pot lids.

    If you’re gardening outdoor, net pot lids will as well prevent debris and rain from entering your hydroponics system.

    How To Use Net Pot

    Using net pot is really easy. Follow this procedure to use your net pot to grow your plants:

    • First, you select the plant or seedling you wish to grow and choose the appropriate net pot size for them.
    • Next, you fill the bottom of the net cup with your preferred growing medium. You can fill the grow medium halfway or just a little halfway.
    • Then you can fit in your rockwool cube with the plant. Ensure your grow medium surrounds the plant so your plant can sit upright and prevent light from entering the sides.
    • Put your net pots inside your hydroponic system and watch your plant grow. As the root grows, they will grow out the net potholes.

    FAQ’s

    What size net pots do I need?

    Net pots are generally used for growing seedlings and small plants. They are the same size as the planting tray they are placed in. Most seedlings require a net pot that is no more than two inches deep. The deeper the pot, the better it will be able to support the root system of the plant. 

    When the seedling has reached about 6-8 inches tall, the net pot can be removed.

    Most garden centres sell plastic net pots. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colours, and they’re cheap

    How do you plant net pots?

    Planting a net pot is much easier than planting a regular container. The only thing you need to do is cut the pot in half lengthwise. Plant the halves in a hole in the ground and fill with soil. If you are not going to plant your net pots directly into the ground, you can use a special potting soil called “potting mix” or “soil mix”. You can find these in garden stores.
    Net pots work best when they are planted deep enough to hold a large amount of soil. This way, your roots won’t be able to go into the air and get tangled up with other plants’ roots. If you don’t plant your net pots deep enough, it’s possible that weeds could grow up through the holes in the bottom. In this case, try to put holes in the bottom of the net pots or place them on top of some sort of weed barrier.
    When using potting soil, make sure it’s a good quality soil.

    The soil should be moist but not soggy. If they dry out too much, it’ll cause root rot.

    Why net pots are used?

    Net pots have a very specific purpose, which is to create a micro-climate around the plants. Plants require specific conditions for their survival and growth. These conditions include temperature, moisture, light, humidity, air circulation, and air movement. When you have a large amount of plants inside your home or office, it is impossible to provide all these conditions at once. For this reason, it is necessary to use pots with a lid.

    These lids act as a container to keep the moisture in place and prevent evaporation. There are many different types of pots available on the market, but it is important to understand that not all pots work the same way. We will take a look at some of the most popular types of pots and how they work.

    How do net pots work?

    The first thing that you should know about net pots is that they are very similar to greenhouses. They are both used to create a controlled environment for the plants. However, the main difference is that net pots have a lid. The lid acts like a greenhouse, keeping the humidity and heat in place. The temperature inside the pot will be affected by the air conditioner and heating system. When the temperature rises, the moisture in the pot evaporates and escapes through the holes in the lid. This allows you to control the temperature and humidity around the plant. The lids are made of glass or plastic, which means that they can be placed in direct sunlight. However, the lids also have holes in them.

    What Size Net Pots To Use: Final Say

    What size of net pot to use in your hydroponic garden matters a lot. Ensure you always select the best quality net pots so they can last you for a long time as they can be reused.

    With that said, we hope you’re now able to decide how to choose the best net pot size for your various hydroponic plants.

  • Why Is My Lettuce Bitter?

    Why Is My Lettuce Bitter?

    Why is my lettuce bitter? This is one frequently asked question by different lettuce growers especially newbie that experience a bad tasting lettuce at the end of their harvest. We’ve got the answer for you here and possible solutions and prevention to go about bitter lettuce.

    The crispy juicy lettuce is a very easy plant to grow. However, the leave turning bitter is one common issue any growers may encounter. The good thing is there are definitely things you can do to avoid them turning bitter and we will enlighten you on this.

    So, let’s dive in to see why your lettuce is better and what to do to solve the problems.

    Bitter Lettuce

    The bittern lettuce is usually experienced with its leaves. There’s no denying that the lettuce leaves’ appearance always looks inviting and all: well, you may become disappointed when you have a bite from a lettuce salad or a wrap.

    Bitter Lettuce

    Why Is Lettuce Bitter?

    Heat is the most common reason for bitter lettuce but there are many other conditions that can predispose your lettuce to turn bitter. When you understand the reasons why lettuce may turn bitter, then you can make plans to prevent future occurrences.

    1.    Heat Stress

    Lettuce is a cool-season crop, however, that doesn’t mean you can’t grow them outside the cool season. Heat is one of the most common and leading causes why your lettuce is turning bitter. As the temperatures rise, the lettuce plant begins to mature and start producing flowers and seeds rather than leaves.

    This process is called bolting and it’s a natural unstoppable process that occurs when the temperature rises.

    2.    Water

    Lettuce leaves are water-loving plants which is why they are full of water! Those huge and succulent leaves require water to remain rigid, full, and tasty. Therefore, if your lettuce plants are watered less often, they can become bitter. When you begin to notice brown leaf edges, then that’s a sign of water deprivation.

    So, ensure you water your lettuce plants often and avoid their soil becoming too dry.

    Why Is Lettuce Bitter - Water

    3.    Nutrition

    Lettuce needs adequate nutrition to grow well.  The plant is a very fast-growing plant. Thus, it will require all the resources to grow smoothly and any slight deficiency will make the plant bolt. So, lack of nutrition will retard the growth of lettuce and make your lettuce leaves turn bad-tasting.

    Ensure you feed your lettuce plant with regular nutrition. However, don’t overdo it because too much fertilizer, especially excess nitrogen can also cause bitter tasting lettuce.

    4.    Bad Soil

    Another cause for bitter-tasting lettuce is bad soil. Lettuce plants need optimum draining soil and loose soil. This is because of the shallow and thin roots lettuce has. If the soil does not suit the lettuce plant, they will become stressed and begin to bolt.

    5.    Aster Yellows Phytoplasma Disease

    Aster yellows are one common lettuce disease that can cause lettuce to turn bitter. The lettuce inner leaves will begin to lose color and the outer leaves will look stunted. This can cause the entire lettuce plant to become weak and not useful.

    Aster Yellows Phytoplasma Disease

    6.    Lettuce Variety

    Lettuce plants belong to a wide range of species and there are over 100s of lettuce varieties and types. They have over 20, 000 other family members.

    We have many other lettuce varieties that are not used in homes and cannot find their way in our domestic lives. This type of lettuce variety is from the Lactuca virosa.

    The variety we consume is the Lactuca sativa. This type ranges from mild to sweet taste. However, their bitterness can still be activated if they are predisposed to conditions that will make them turn bitter.

    Bitter Lettuce Prevention

    Here are the following things you can do to prevent a bad-tasting lettuce:

    • Grow in Semi-Shade: Simply grow them in a semi-shade area and ensure you always keep them cool during hot seasons. You can also plant your lettuce under taller plants that will cover or shade your lettuce plants. You can plant them under tomatoes or crops that are trellised.
    • Healthy Soil: Maintain healthy soil and feed the soil with the appropriate nutrient. Add and cover the soil with some mulch to your soil especially hot season and during winter.

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    • Use Containers: when you grow your lettuce using containers, it allows you the comfort of simply moving them to a shaded place when needed.
    • Shade Cloth: you can purchase shade cloths and create some shade around your garden to block some sun.
    • Water Regularly: never deprive your lettuce plants of water as they will need all the moisture they can get. This is important especially during hot seasons.
    • Grow in Cooler Months: even though it’s possible to grow lettuce outside cooler months, growing them during cooler months will make your crop last longer.

    Bitter Lettuce: What To Do With It?

    If at the end of it all you end up with a bad tasting lettuce, here are some things you can do to relief the bitterness:

    • Run your lettuce leaves under cool water and put the head in a crisper immediately. Keep it in the crisper for 48 hours and bring it out rinse in cold water again. Then take away the outer leaves and cut the root and tips. The bitter taste should be gone and you can serve right away.
    • You can also cook your lettuce to get rid of the bitter taste and mix it with something sweet such as spinach or silverbeet.

    Note that lettuce leaves cannot be frozen or dried as they must be used immediately.

    So, rather than letting that bitter lettuce go to waste, you can simply revive it by following the above tips.

    FAQ’s

    Why does my lettuce plant taste bitter?

    There are a number of reasons your lettuce could be bitter.

    First, it may be too much or too little water. If you are not watering it daily, the plant needs more water. It may also be that the plant has not been getting enough light. If you are in a basement, you will need to provide additional light by using a light box, fluorescent lights, or other means. If you find that you are not able to get adequate light in your basement, you may want to consider relocating your lettuce plant outside, where you can provide adequate sunlight.

    How do you fix bitter lettuce?

    It’s one of the most common problems that crops face in our backyard, and if you’re like me, you’ve probably tried many different things to help with it. My usual method is to cut off the worst parts, but then I often end up throwing them out.

    You can add vinegar. I don’t mean just any old vinegary taste. I mean the kind of vinegar that makes a salad pop with flavor.

    Why is my hydroponic lettuce bitter?

    I’d bet that it’s because of something in the water. I think you may be looking for a chlorine filter or a carbon filter. Chlorine kills bacteria and will kill off the bacteria in the water.

    Bitter taste is often associated with the presence of oxalic acid in the plant. It’s produced as a defense against bacteria and fungi that are feeding on the plant.
    This can be caused by either over-watering or by over-fertilizing. If you fertilize with nitrogen-rich materials, then it will increase the concentration of oxalic acid. Keep the soil moist but not soggy; too much moisture can lead to root rot. I have a few pots of lettuce that have been growing for 3 weeks and they have started to get bitter. I have had the same soil mix, same lighting, and same water source for all 3 plants. The soil was changed weekly and everything else has remained constant.

    How do I make my lettuce not bitter?

    Lettuce is naturally bitter, which is why we eat it with some sort of dressing. The bitterness comes from oxalic acid, which is very soluble in water. In general, the more the leaf has been dried, the less bitter it will be.
    Some types of lettuce are less bitter than others. You can also rinse the leaves in a bowl of water to remove some of the bitterness. If you’re concerned about the amount of salt you’ll be adding to your salad, it’s best to add some lemon or lime juice to cut the bitterness before adding the salt. We usually recommend rinsing the lettuce in cold water for 30 seconds to 1 minute before dressing. A quick rinse should get rid of most of the bitterness. You can also use a salad spinner to dry the lettuce after washing.

    Final Say On Why Is My Lettuce Bitter?

    So, there you have it on why your lettuce is turning bitter. Follow our tips on preventing your lettuce from turning bad so you can enjoy a better tasteful lettuce meal.

  • How Many T5 Lights Do I Need For Veg

    How Many T5 Lights Do I Need For Veg

    How many T5 lights do I need for veg is one question most growers ask themselves. Veg is the vegetative period in a plant’s growth and during this period, they require optimal light to flourish. If you’re making use of a T5 light, you may want to know how many light bulbs to use during the veg period.

    It is important you supply the right light intensity for your plants’ veg stage so they can result in abundant yield. This is why we will be discussing how many T5 lights do I need for veg growth. So, continue reading to learn about this.

    What Is Veg?

    Typically, all types of plants go through the vegetative stage, and during this stage, they require more blue light. For this reason, a veg bulb or grow light must provide cool white lights that have more blue wavelength. So the color temperature value on the Kelvin scale should be around 6000K to 6500k.

    Veg such as basil, lettuce, herbs, etc only goes through the vegetative period. However, some other plants transition to the flowering stage and eventually the fruiting stage. The fruiting stage usually requires the red color temperature with values of around 2700K to 3500K.

    What Is Veg

    T5 Veg Light

    T5 is a tube-shaped fluorescent light that has a diameter of 5/8 inch. It is one of the best grow lights you can use on any type of plant especially the veg plant. This is because they will go easy on your plants at the same time providing good light for your plants’ growing needs.

    Even though they are not as powerful or intense as other grow lights like LED, they are still very efficient. They are capable of carrying your plants where they need to go and offer even more benefits.

    T5 lights are generally a great choice for veg plants. They are also known to emit very little heat. Thus, T5 for veg grow light can also be used on fragile plants like on seedlings and clones. T5 lights are also low power consuming and very efficient, thereby allowing you to save cost on the electricity bill.

    How Many T5 Light Do I Need For Veg?

    How many T5 lights you need for veg will depend on a few things. We have different varieties and sizes of light fixtures. T5 grow light generally comes in two various lengths and it will come in 6 or more bulb configurations.

    The common lengths of T5 grow lights include 2 and 4 feet long. The bulb configurations also include 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12 bulbs per fixture.

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    So, when we are talking about how many T5 lights are required for veg, we will be looking at the number of bulbs to use. If you wish to grow just a couple of plants, you can use 1 or 2 bulb set that has the height of 2 or 4 feet long.

    However, if you’re growing a lot of plants, using a bulb set up of 8 or 12 bulbs with a height of 4 feet long is recommended. This implies, the bigger the size of your plant mass, the more bulbs you will require for your veg.

    Also, you want to ensure color temperature for your bulb begins with a 6,500 Kelvin bulb for the vegetative stage growth.

    There are now T5 grow lights that have multiple spectrums which are great for your plant growing needs. They will boost the quality of your T5 harvests and even offer more benefits.

    Flowering With T5 Fluorescents

    The next growth stage of a plant after veg is the flowering stage. Not all plants enter the flowering stage. But the ones that do, will require a specific light spectrum to transition into the flowering phase. If you don’t provide your indoor plants with a specific spectrum for their flowering stage, they may not transition into the flowering stage.

    So, when using T5 fluorescent for your plant flowering stage, you will need to go with a 2700 Kelvin bulb. This will give you a white or yellowish spectrum light spectrum which will stimulate the growth of the flower.

    Beforehand, most growers will need to switch to HID or intensify the 2700 Kelvin lights on their plants to transition to or complete the flowering stage. But now, things are different because growers now have the option of choosing a single grow light to complete both the veg and flowering growth stage of plants.

    Manufacturers have now introduced different T5 that has different phosphorus coating that imitates certain wavelengths just like LED does! These special T5 fluorescent bulbs work just like LED does by providing wavelengths centered around 6400 (for veg) and 2700 (for flowering) Kelvin.

    T5 Fluorescent Placement

    T5 fluorescent grow lights are safe to be placed close to your plants because they are low heat emitting lights. You can position your T5 grow light around 1 to 12 inches depending on the light intensity your plant stage requires.

    Anything above 12 inches is not recommended because the T5 grow light will begin to lose its intensity. As your plant matures, you can now move the T5 grow light closer for better light intensity.

    You can as well use this fluorescent grow light for your fragile seedlings and clones. T5 grow light will go easy on your fragile seedlings and clones so they are safe for use. However, you should place them around 6 to 10 inches away from your tender plants. You can later increase the distance when they begin to mature.

    T5 Fluorescent Placement

    FAQ’s

    Can I use the T5 as a grow light? 

    Yes, you can use the T5 tubes in your grow light. They work just fine.  They’re very efficient and have some great benefits. The most obvious benefit is that they provide more consistent light output than an incandescent bulb or CFL. That means you don’t have to pay attention to the light level all the time. It’s also easier to adjust your light levels because you can adjust the amount of light you put out over a wider range. T5s are also pretty much guaranteed to last forever. A T5 will last 30 years or more if you take good care of them. 

    How much area does a T5 cover?

    The T5 covers a 2 feet by four feet area.

    Are T5 lights full spectrum?

    The T5 is a light with 5 LEDs in one, which means it’s full spectrum. 

    How many T5 grow lights do I need?

    The number of T5 lights depends on your expected crop volume.
    If you’re planning on producing 100 lbs of tomatoes per square foot, then you need at least three T5s (one per each of the three rows). But if you’re only going to be producing 50 lbs of tomatoes per square foot, then you need two T5s (one per each row).

    How many watts is a T5 grow light?

    The T5 is a very popular light. It’s one of the most common lights you’ll find in any cannabis grower’s shop. The reason for its popularity is because it gives you a lot of power, but it’s not too powerful. A lot of people buy the T5 and then they use it with their older HPS or CFL lamps.
    It’s a good compromise between power and price. You can get an 18-watt T5 for around $60 on Amazon. A T5 is also used in many grow rooms that don’t have access to electricity. In this case, a T5 is mounted on a motorized ballast. When the ballast runs, the light turns on.

    How long do T5 grow lights last?

    There are several factors that can impact how long your T5 Grow Light will last. First, it depends on the quality of the bulb itself. If it’s a cheap Chinese lightbulb that is known for having a short lifespan, then it may only last about 3 months to 6 months. However, if you get a good quality lightbulb, it should last much longer.
    The second factor is the environment your bulbs are in. If they are exposed to dust, heat, and humidity, the lifespan will be reduced. The third factor is the power output of the bulb. Bulbs with higher wattages will typically last longer than those that have lower wattages. For example, an 800w lightbulb will last much longer than a 600w lightbulb. It’s also important to note that many of the high-quality brands of T5 grow lights also come with a warranty. This means if your bulb breaks or malfunctions within the first year of purchase, you can simply return it and receive a replacement.

    Final Say On How Many T5 Lights Do I Need For Veg

    How many T5 lights you will need for the veg stage will largely depend on the size of your plant. We hope the information we have listed above will guide you on how to use the right number of T5 bulbs for your plants to flourish.

  • LED Light Distance From Canopy

    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.

    Grow Light Height

    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.

    LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Clones

     

    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.