Often grouped with these systems is drip or trickle irrigation but it is not a true hydroponic system.

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Often grouped with these systems is drip or trickle irrigation but it is not a true hydroponic system."

Transcription

1 Introduction In recent years growing plants hydroponically--that is, with the roots in a medium other than soil--has stirred the imagination of many persons interested in plant growth and development. Commercial growers have adopted hydroponic methods to produce crops in circumstances that would otherwise be unfavorable. For the plant hobbyist, hydroponics offers an opportunity to learn more about the growth of plants and their interactions with their environment. Gardeners may grow flowers, ornamental plants, and vegetables by hydroponics. Growing your own fresh vegetables out of season can be a special winter treat. Colorful sales campaigns and articles in the popular press have led people to believe that hydroponics is a new discovery that will revolutionize modern agriculture. However, the basic techniques have been used by plant researchers for well over a century to determine the effect of particular nutrients on plant growth and yield. The first recorded experiments were conducted in England in 1699 by Woodward. By the mid-nineteenth century, Sachs and Knop, pioneers in this field, had perfected a method of growing plants without soil. In the late 1920s and early 1930s Gericke was able to grow plants successfully on a large scale by adapting the laboratory technique of solution culture. The widespread use of hydroponics for commercial plant production is a relatively recent occurrence. In areas where soil is lacking or unsuitable for growth, hydroponics offers an alternative production system. However, there is nothing magical about hydroponics. Equally good crops can be produced in a greenhouse in conventional soil or bench systems, often at lower cost. The term hydroponics is used to describe many different types of systems for growing plants without soil. Among the most common are: water culture, aquaculture, or nutriculture: a system in which the plant roots are immersed in water containing dissolved nutrients aggregate culture: in which a material such as sand, gravel, or marbles supports the plant roots aeroponics: in which the plant roots hang in the air and are misted regularly with a nutrient solution continuous flow systems: in which the nutrient solution flows constantly over the plant roots. This system is the one most commonly used for commercial production. Often grouped with these systems is drip or trickle irrigation but it is not a true hydroponic system. The common denominator in all hydroponic systems is the method by which the plants receive their nutrition and water. When plants are grown hydroponically their roots are either immersed in or coated by a carefully controlled nutrient solution. The nutrients and water are supplied by the solution alone, not by the aggregates (if any) that support the roots. A number of packaged hydroponic systems are available to the commercial grower and hobbyist. Individuals, who lack building skills or plant-growing experience can look to these kits as an introduction to a challenging hobby. Similar systems can be built at lower cost, however, by talented hobbyists. Only experienced greenhouse operators should consider hydroponics as a commercial venture.

2 Water Culture or Aquaculture The water culture method of hydroponics is the simplest to set up on a small scale. In this system the plant roots are totally immersed in a nutrient solution. The major disadvantages of this system are the large amount of water required per plant and the need to aerate the solution continuously. The actual design of the system is limited only by the imagination of the builder. The system must provide means to (1) support the plant above the solution, (2) aerate the solution, and (3) prevent light from reaching the solution (to prevent the growth of algae). A standard tray or tank is shown in Figure 1. The tray may be made of concrete or of plastic-lined or asphaltsealed wood. If you use asphalt to seal the tank, be sure that it does not contain creosote or tars. Do not use asphalt that leaves an oil film on the surface of the water. A typical size is 6 to 12 inches deep, 2 to 3 feet wide, and as long as is convenient. The plants can be supported by inserting them through holes drilled in a plywood top or through holes punched in a l-inch-thick Styrofoam sheet that floats on the surface of the solution. You can make a small system from a child's wading pool, a plastic pail, a fish tank, or a drinking tumbler. A large tomato plant should be grown in a container that holds at least 2 gallons as the solution in a smaller container will be used up too quickly. Lettuce plants, on the other hand, may be grown in smaller containers. Figure 1. Cutaway view of a typical tray for an aquaculture system. Short plants such as lettuce and spinach will usually support themselves. Drill a 1-inch hole in the Styrofoam or wooden cover and insert a transplant. The plant may be held in place by packing a flexible material such as cotton into the hole around the stem. A plant started in sand, perlite, or vermiculite can be transplanted easily to the water culture system because these materials can be washed from the roots readily Figure 2. Cutaway view of a typical tray for an aquaculture system. Vining plants such as cucumbers and tomatoes must be supported by string. When pruned to a single stem they can be wrapped around a loosely hung string as they grow (Figure 2). Aerate the solution continuously by pumping air through a perforated hose or pipe immersed in the solution. For small systems an aquarium pump and porous stone will work. Do not bubble the solution too vigorously because excessive movement may damage the tender roots and impair plant growth. Change the nutrient solution every two weeks when the plants are small and once a week as they begin to mature. Add water daily to keep the solution level constant.

3 Aggregate Culture Growing plants in aggregates such as sand or gravel is often preferred to the water culture method since the aggregate helps to support the roots. The aggregate is held in the same type of tank as is used for a water culture system. The nutrient solution is held in a separate tank and pumped into the aggregate tank to moisten the roots as needed. After the aggregate has been flooded it is drained to provide aeration. Enough water and nutrients cling to the aggregate and roots to supply the plant until the next flooding (Figure 3). Figure 3. Cross-section of plants growing in aggregate. Figure 4. A manual gravity-feed system. The solution is generally pumped to within 1 inch of the surface and then allowed to drain. If the top surface of the bed is kept dry, the growth of algae will be minimal. To allow rapid drainage, the aggregate must be coarse. Use sand with particles of at least 1/16-inch diameter or gravel of about 1/4- to 3/8-inch diameter. The best aggregates are silica gravel, granite, basalt, or smooth river-bottom rock of the inert type that contains no calcium. Larger aggregates will require more frequent flooding, whereas smaller aggregates will not drain properly. In small, experimental units you may use any of several different substances. Perlite, Styrofoam, and crushed marbles have all been used successfully by hobbyists.

4 Figure 5. A simple gravity-feed system. The solution flows from vat A into the aggregate material in the growing bed. When the growing bed is flooded, the solution is drained into vat B and then returned to vat A. The aggregate should be flooded for about 10 minutes and allowed to drain for no longer than 30 minutes. Variations of the tray and tank arrangement are shown in Figures 4 through 6. Aeroponics Figure 6. A simple mechanical subirrigation system. The adventurous hobbyist may wish to try an even more exotic method of growing plants. In the aeroponic system the roots of the plant grow in a closed container. A misting system bathes the roots in a film of nutrient solution and keeps them near 100 percent relative humidity to prevent drying. The container may be of almost any design as long as it is moisture proof and dark. Tomatoes may be grown in tall, narrow containers lined with plastic. Lettuce and strawberries have been grown in A-frame containers (Figure 7) to make the best use of available space and light. Figure 7. An A-Frame container for aeroponic culture of small plants. Position the spray nozzles so that at least a portion of each plant's roots are sprayed directly. You may leave the nozzles on at low pressure continuously or operate them intermittently, on for 20 seconds and off for 40 seconds. A fungicide may be added to the solution to avoid root rot pathogens.

5 Continuous Flow Systems Most commercial hydroponic systems direct a continuous flow of nutrient solution over the plant roots. One continuous flow system uses polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe of the type commonly used for household waste plumbing. A 2-inch pipe for lettuce or a 4- to 6-inch pipe for tomatoes may be set up with a slight gradient to allow for flow of the solution. Holes of 1- to 1 1/2-inch diameter are drilled in the pipe, and the plants are inserted into the holes. Lettuce plants will support themselves if they have been started in growing cubes. Tomato plants must be supported with wire or string. The nutrient solution is held in a large tank and pumped or allowed to flow by gravity to the growing pipes. The continuously flowing nutrient solution bathes the roots and then returns to the holding tank. The solution aerates itself as it flows back into the tank. Major problems with using PVC pipe are its relatively high initial cost and the need for cleaning. After a crop has been grown in the pipe, it should be thoroughly cleaned with a 0.5 to 1.0 percent sodium hypochlorite solution (made by mixing one part of household bleach with nine parts of water) to prevent contamination from disease organisms. With the nutrient film technique (NFT) the same methods but less expensive materials are used. A flexible plastic tube supported by a wooden tray is used in place of rigid PVC pipe. The tube is made of black plastic film (much like the plastic film mulch use for gardens) with holes punched at specified intervals. The plants are started in root cubes and then placed in the tube where they are bathed in a continuous flow of nutrient solution. A variation of the continuous flow system is marketed as the Pipe Dream. This system uses 2-inch corrugated plastic drainage pipe placed vertically in a 6-inch drainage pipe for tomatoes or a 2-inch pipe for lettuce (Figure 8). A plastic mesh tube filled with peat moss is placed in the vertical tube and allowed to hang into the horizontal pipe. A nutrient solution flowing in the horizontal pipe supplies water and fertilizer, which move up into the peat moss and thus to the plant roots. Although seeds can be planted directly in the peat moss, it is best to start with transplants. Figure 8. A commercially available type of continuous flow system.

6 Requirements for Plant Growth Hydroponic systems will not compensate for poor growing conditions such as improper temperature, inadequate light, or pest problems. Hydroponically grown plants have the same general requirements for good growth as field-grown plants. The major difference is the method by which the plants are supported and the inorganic elements necessary for growth and development are supplied. Temperature. Plants grow well only within a limited temperature range. Temperatures that are too high or too low will result in abnormal development and reduced production. Warm-season vegetables and most flowers grow best between 60 and 75 or 80 F. Cool-season vegetables such as lettuce and spinach should be grown between 50 and 70 F. Light. All vegetable plants and many flowers require large amounts of sunlight. Hydroponically grown vegetables like those grown in a garden, need at least 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce wells Artificial lighting is a poor substitute for sunshine, as most indoor lights do not provide enough intensity to produce a crop. Incandescent lamps supplemented with sunshine or special plant-growth lamps can be used to grow transplants but are not adequate to grow the crop to maturity. High intensity lamps such as high-pressure sodium lamps can provide more than 1,000 foot-candles of light. The serious hobbyist can use these lamps successfully in areas where sunlight is inadequate. The fixtures and lamps, however, are very expensive and thus not feasible for a commercial operation. Adequate spacing between plants will ensure that each plant receives sufficient light in the greenhouse. Tomato plants pruned to a single stem should be allowed 4 square feet per plant. European seedless cucumbers should be allowed 7 to 9 square feet, and seeded cucumbers need about 7 square feet. Leaf lettuce plants should be spaced 7 to 9 inches apart within the row and 9 inches between rows. Most other vegetables and flowers should be grown at the same spacing as recommended for a garden. Greenhouse vegetables, whether grown in soil or in a hydroponic system, will not do as well during the winter as in the summer. Shorter days and cloudy weather reduce the light intensity and thus limit production. Most vegetables will do better if grown from January to June or from July to December than if they are started in the fall and grown through the midwinter months. Water. Providing the plants with an adequate amount of water is not difficult in the water culture system, but it can be a problem with the aggregate culture method. During the hot summer months a large tomato plant may use onehalf gallon of water per day. If the aggregate is not kept sufficiently moist, the plant roots will dry out and some will die. Even after the proper moisture level has been restored, the plants will recover slowly and production will be reduced. Water quality can be a problem in hydroponic systems. Water with excessive alkalinity or salt content can result in a nutrient imbalance and poor plant growth. Softened water may contain harmful amounts of sodium. Water that tests high in total salts should not be used. Salt levels greater than 0.5 millions or 320 parts per million are likely to cause an imbalance of nutrients. The amateur chemist may be able to overcome this problem by custom mixing the nutrient solutions to compensate for the salts in the water. Oxygen. Plants require oxygen for respiration to carry out their functions of water and nutrient uptake. In soil adequate oxygen is usually available, but plant roots growing in water will quickly exhaust the supply of dissolved oxygen and can be damaged or killed unless additional air is provided. A common method of supplying oxygen is to bubble air through the solution. It is not usually necessary to provide supplementary oxygen in aeroponic or continuous flow systems.

7 Mineral Nutrients. Green plants must absorb certain minerals through their roots to survive. In the garden these minerals are supplied by the soil and by the addition of fertilizers such as manure, compost, and fertilizer salts. The essential elements needed in large quantities are nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. Micronutrients - iron, manganese, boron, zinc, copper, molybdenum, and chlorine are also needed but in very small amou Support. In a garden the plant roots are surrounded by soil that supports the growing plant. A hydroponically grown plant must be artificially supported, usually with string or stakes.

DID YOU KNOW that the National

DID YOU KNOW that the National Understanding Hydroponics DID YOU KNOW that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is looking at hydroponics as a means of providing food during space exploration? We tend to think of

More information

or hydroponics soilless growth imk)thecwecfcmd^ PUBLICATION C212 P1357 CANADIAN AGRICULTURE LIBRARY (1982 print) Canada c.

or hydroponics soilless growth imk)thecwecfcmd^ PUBLICATION C212 P1357 CANADIAN AGRICULTURE LIBRARY (1982 print) Canada c. PUBLICATION 1357 j ' CANADIAN AGRICULTURE LIBRARY imk)thecwecfcmd^ soilless growth or hydroponics 630 4 C212 P1357 1 968 Agriculture (1982 print) Canada c.2 % % PUBLICATION 1 57, available from Communications

More information

Basics of Plant Growth in Greenhouses: Temperature, Light, Moisture, Growing Media, etc.

Basics of Plant Growth in Greenhouses: Temperature, Light, Moisture, Growing Media, etc. Basics of Plant Growth in Greenhouses: Temperature, Light, Moisture, Growing Media, etc www.tinyfarmblog.com The law of limiting factors Too much or too little of any one factor can limit the growth of

More information

NFT. basic steps to successful growing. nutriculture ltd. Do you want. Find out more. Hydroponic

NFT. basic steps to successful growing. nutriculture ltd. Do you want. Find out more. Hydroponic NFT Do you want Earlier Bigger Taste Hydroponic Crops Yields Explosion Excellence Find out more basic steps to successful growing BASIC STEPS TO GROWING SUCCESSFULLY USING NFT NFT (NUTRIENT FILM TECHNIQUE)

More information

KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY

KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY KEEPING PLANTS HEALTHY The Right Plant In The Right Place MICROCLIMATE Geographic Location Elevation Topography Exposure LIGHT Exposure: Full Sun South Facing At least 8 hours per day Full Shade North

More information

THE USE OF A SMALL HYDROPONIC SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING MARIGOLDS

THE USE OF A SMALL HYDROPONIC SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING MARIGOLDS THE USE OF A SMALL HYDROPONIC SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING MARIGOLDS M.A. Wilson', D. Rogers', VA. Khan 2, and C. Stevens' 'Department of Agriculture, Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

More information

Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report. General Information

Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report. General Information gardening.cornell.edu Getting the Most out of Your Strawberry Soil Test Report 1. Be certain your soil ph is in the optimal range. 2. Add a nitrogen (N) source at the recommended rate and time. 3. Add

More information

1. Which is a light-weight inorganic mica mineral capable of absorbing a large amount of water in growing media? A. B. C. D.

1. Which is a light-weight inorganic mica mineral capable of absorbing a large amount of water in growing media? A. B. C. D. Student Name: Teacher: Date: Test: 9_12 Agriculture AP41 - Horticulture I Test 2 Description: Soils, Nutrients, Fertilizers District: Wake County Form: 501 1. Which is a light-weight inorganic mica mineral

More information

Sunlight. Chlorophyll

Sunlight. Chlorophyll Plant Nutrition & Soil Fertility Richard Smith Vegetable Crop and Weed Science Farm Advisor University of California Cooperative Extension Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties Plant Nutrition 1.

More information

Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014

Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014 Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014 Overview Types of vegetable raised beds Know your soil Vegetable planting distances Vegetable seedlings and seedplug

More information

Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden

Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden The Basics Getting Started with Your Vegetable Garden Nathan Gerber Advanced Master Gardener USU Extension Thanksgiving Point A little About Vegetables Choosing the Right Location Planning your Garden

More information

The Wheel Garden B.A. Kratky,UH/CTAHR/TPSS/Komohana Res & Ext Center, 875 Komohana, Hilo, HI 96720

The Wheel Garden B.A. Kratky,UH/CTAHR/TPSS/Komohana Res & Ext Center, 875 Komohana, Hilo, HI 96720 The Wheel Garden B.A. Kratky,UH/CTAHR/TPSS/Komohana Res & Ext Center, 875 Komohana, Hilo, HI 96720 A commercial garment rack has been modified into a Wheel Garden wherein 5 different crops are being grown

More information

Soil is the Key (Chapter 3)

Soil is the Key (Chapter 3) Soil is the Key (Chapter 3) Soils 101 Soil profile Soil sources, texture, chemistry, physical properties Soil Amendments Identifying your soil Soil Testing Fertilizers Soil Profile Vertical distribution

More information

3/23/2011. Poor soil Soil pests Trees Limited space Deed restrictions Love the lawn! Epcot, April

3/23/2011. Poor soil Soil pests Trees Limited space Deed restrictions Love the lawn! Epcot, April Alternative Vegetable Gardening Sydney Park Brown Epcot, April 2010 Edibles! UF Extension Specialist Consumer Horticulture Gulf Coast Research & Education Center Plant City http://tiny.cc/tm7sx Edibles!

More information

Using Fertilizers: Feeding plants. Lydia Clayton UAF Cooperative Extension Service Kenai Peninsula District

Using Fertilizers: Feeding plants. Lydia Clayton UAF Cooperative Extension Service Kenai Peninsula District Using Fertilizers: Feeding plants Lydia Clayton UAF Cooperative Extension Service Kenai Peninsula District What to know before you grow? Proper fertilization is essential for: Disease control Weed control

More information

BASIC HYDROPONICS. There are 6 basic types of hydroponic systems:

BASIC HYDROPONICS. There are 6 basic types of hydroponic systems: BASIC HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS AND HOW THEY WORK BASIC HYDROPONICS There are 6 basic types of hydroponic systems: Wick Water Culture Ebb and Flow (Flood & Drain) Drip (recovery or non-recovery) N.F.T. (Nutrient

More information

Hydroponics Systems Q&A

Hydroponics Systems Q&A Hydroponics Systems Q&A What Hydroponic System do you guys like the BEST? We get asked this question ALOT. Of course we do...and we definitely have to say that we like Drip Systems the BEST. They are easy

More information

With the advancement of perennial production,

With the advancement of perennial production, Getting to the Root of It Find out how to work best with media, water and fertilizer when growing perennials. By Paul Pilon With the advancement of perennial production, many operations are looking at

More information

Plant Propagation for Successful Hydroponic Production

Plant Propagation for Successful Hydroponic Production Plant Propagation for Successful Hydroponic Production Hye-Ji Kim Assistant Professor of Sustainable Horticulture Crop Production Oct 14, 2017 What is Hydroponics? Hydroponics = hydros + ponos Water labor

More information

Container Gardening. Soil Mixes. Containers

Container Gardening. Soil Mixes. Containers Container Gardening Container gardens may be the answer for persons with limited garden space. Residents of apartments, condominiums, retirement homes, or houses on small lots can still enjoy gardening

More information

CropKing NFT 4-6 ( 10f t )1/2 Hose i t em HOS0500 Var i f l oval ve i t em EMI 1015 Gr eenbackval ve i t em EMI 1014 1. Punch a hole for each channel into 2. 3. the 1/2" hose using the punch tool

More information

Session 4: Maintaining Your Garden

Session 4: Maintaining Your Garden Growing and Nourishing Healthy Communities Garden Course Session 4: Maintaining Your Garden Note to agent/educator At the end of this session, participants will be able to identify good maintenance practices

More information

CHECKLIST EFFECTS OF GROWING MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS ON WATER AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

CHECKLIST EFFECTS OF GROWING MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS ON WATER AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT CHECKLIST EFFECTS OF GROWING MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS ON WATER AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT Avoid compaction of growing media. Containers should be lightly filled and the excess brushed off the top. Do not stack

More information

Container Gardening for Small Spaces

Container Gardening for Small Spaces Container Gardening for Small Spaces Leonard J.M. Githinji, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Sustainable and Urban Agriculture Virginia State University (804) 524-5962 lgithinji@vsu.edu

More information

TECHNICAL BULLETIN. Tomatoes, Peppers and Eggplant

TECHNICAL BULLETIN. Tomatoes, Peppers and Eggplant TECHNICAL BULLETIN Tomatoes, Peppers and Eggplant SELECTING THE RIGHT VARIETIES TECH BULLETIN TOMATOES, PEPPERS AND EGGPLANT Many factors enter into the picture when selecting a tomato, pepper or eggplant

More information

Growing Vegetables in Containers

Growing Vegetables in Containers Growing Vegetables in Containers Joan Cloutier, UCCE Master Gardener Growing vegetables in containers is an easy way to enjoy healthy fresh produce all year long Containers give you flexibility to choose

More information

ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow?

ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow? ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow? Study Question: Activity: Curriculum Fit: What is the optimum level of plant nutrient application? In this lesson students will conduct an experiment that will examine

More information

FLORICULTURE CDE. Identifying and Controlling Plant Disorders

FLORICULTURE CDE. Identifying and Controlling Plant Disorders FLORICULTURE CDE Identifying and Controlling Plant Disorders Nutritional and Environmental Disorders Poor soil drainage Problem: Garden soil may appear ideal for potting indoor plants but actually causes

More information

Basic Hydroponic Systems. There are hundreds of variations on these basic types of systems, but all hydroponic methods are a (or ) of these six.

Basic Hydroponic Systems. There are hundreds of variations on these basic types of systems, but all hydroponic methods are a (or ) of these six. There are 6 basic types of hydroponic systems: Basic Hydroponic Systems There are hundreds of variations on these basic types of systems, but all hydroponic methods are a (or ) of these six. Wick System

More information

Irrigation and Fertilization. Mary M. Peet North Carolina State University

Irrigation and Fertilization. Mary M. Peet North Carolina State University Irrigation and Fertilization Mary M. Peet North Carolina State University Topics Irrigation Fertilization Transplanting Pruning & Training Pollination Harvest Containers Packing lines Irrigation and Fertilization

More information

GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT for Horticultural Crops

GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT for Horticultural Crops GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT for Horticultural Crops S E C O N D R E V I S E D A N D E N L A R G E D E D I T I O N S. Prasad U. Kumar Agrobios (India) S. Prasad Ex-Associate Professor of Horticulture Rajasthan

More information

Full Disclosure, I create and sell Sumo Cakes Bonsai Fertilizer Basics

Full Disclosure, I create and sell Sumo Cakes  Bonsai Fertilizer Basics Full Disclosure, I create and sell Sumo Cakes www.sumocakes.com Bonsai Fertilizer Basics Where does one start when talking about fertilizers for bonsai? The one thing I do know is that there is no such

More information

Soils and plant nutrients

Soils and plant nutrients Soils and plant nutrients Soils and soil texture Soil texture triangle Plant nutrients Major nutrients Secondary nutrients Minor nutrients Exchange Capacity (CEC) Soil ph Soils Consists of a series of

More information

Factoids on SC soils. Soils. What is Soil? Variability of soils in your yard. Soil Components. Soil Tilth 6/23/14

Factoids on SC soils. Soils. What is Soil? Variability of soils in your yard. Soil Components. Soil Tilth 6/23/14 Factoids on SC soils Soils Managing Soils Over 100 different soil types Soil type covering largest areas 7.0% Ben Lomond Complex 50-70% slope 5.6% Lompoc Felton Complex 50-75% slope 5.8% Lompoc Felton

More information

Lecture # 11. Water Quality - Irrigation Practices

Lecture # 11. Water Quality - Irrigation Practices Lecture # 11 Water Quality - Irrigation Practices Watering: No Simple Matter! Water source.! Water within the growing medium.! Water uptake and use by the plant.! Water stress.! Watering methods.! Water:

More information

Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Soil analysis

Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Soil analysis Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Mary Concklin, Visiting Extension Educator Fruit Production and IPM University of Connecticut Fertilizer decisions for

More information

ALTERNATIVE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS. Marc van Iersel Associate Professor, Floriculture Griffin Campus, UGA

ALTERNATIVE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS. Marc van Iersel Associate Professor, Floriculture Griffin Campus, UGA ALTERNATIVE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS Marc van Iersel Associate Professor, Floriculture Griffin Campus, UGA Any unconventional way to water a crop Not: Hand watering Overhead sprinklers Drip irrigation Why use

More information

SNAP Hydroponics. PJA Santos ETM Ocampo. AGRILINK 2009 World trade Center Pasay City

SNAP Hydroponics. PJA Santos ETM Ocampo. AGRILINK 2009 World trade Center Pasay City SNAP Hydroponics PJA Santos ETM Ocampo and AGRILINK 2009 World trade Center Pasay City Growing plants without soil An inert medium (coco coir dust or charcoaled rice hull) is used, instead of soil, to

More information

Crop Management Practices. By Simon Bedasie

Crop Management Practices. By Simon Bedasie Crop Management Practices Fertigation By Simon Bedasie Observations of a Visiting Consultant Water and fertilizer management looked like bucket chemistry. Very basic techniques for water and fertilizer

More information

Soil Test Report. HOME GARDEN VEGETABLE GARDEN Analysis Results

Soil Test Report. HOME GARDEN VEGETABLE GARDEN Analysis Results Analysis VEGETABLE GARDEN Analysis Results Result Account Number: 54321 Page: 1 of 6 Soil Test Rating Very Low Low Medium High Very High Organic Matter, % 4.6 Phosphorus, ppm P (Bray-1 Equiv.) 12 Potassium,

More information

Fertilizers. TheBasics. Whats in a Fertilizer? Why use Fertilizer? Nitrogen (N) Nitrogen (N) Its on the Label! Other sources of Nitrogen

Fertilizers. TheBasics. Whats in a Fertilizer? Why use Fertilizer? Nitrogen (N) Nitrogen (N) Its on the Label! Other sources of Nitrogen Why use Fertilizer? Fertilizers TheBasics Expectations Want the Golf Course look. Helps in recovery from stress. Mowing, Heat, and Activities. New Hybrids of grass seed perform better than the older varieties,

More information

Anorganic Fertilizer. Lenny Sri Nopriani, SP.MP

Anorganic Fertilizer. Lenny Sri Nopriani, SP.MP Anorganic Fertilizer Lenny Sri Nopriani, SP.MP Jargon Fertilizer Synthetic Fertilizers can be organic or inorganic Organic: from living material, contains C-C bonds; does not imply organic certification

More information

Unit 4 Landscape Installation

Unit 4 Landscape Installation Unit 4 Landscape Installation Chapter 8 (lawns) slp 4.1 Soil Amendments I. Soil conditioners change the physical AND chemical properties of a soil A. Physical 1. Aggregate same size particles into clumps

More information

Open-Field Soilless Culture of Vegetables 1

Open-Field Soilless Culture of Vegetables 1 SL 291 1 George J. Hochmuth and Robert C. Hochmuth 2 The Need for Alternative Crop Production s Commercial vegetable production is very expensive involving many costly inputs. One of these inputs is suitable

More information

NUTRITION FOR GREENHOUSE TOMATOES

NUTRITION FOR GREENHOUSE TOMATOES dlinnesota Flower Growers Bulletin - July, 99 Volume, Number NUTRITION FOR GREENHOUSE TOMATOES Richard J. McAvoy Extension Specklist - Greenhouse Crops University of Connecticut Reprinted from the Connecticut

More information

BEDDING PLANTS are immensely popular and

BEDDING PLANTS are immensely popular and Growing Bedding Plants BEDDING PLANTS are immensely popular and for good reason. They provide much of the bright color we see in landscapes throughout the growing season. Also, bedding plants are widely

More information

Soil & Garden Preparation. Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners

Soil & Garden Preparation. Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners Soil & Garden Preparation Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners Healthy Yankton Community Gardens Located on City Limit Road Sites available March 14, 2016 Avera Pavilion Cost $20 Contact HealthyYankton@gmail.com

More information

REVIEW OF AVOCADO FERTILIZER PRACTICES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY

REVIEW OF AVOCADO FERTILIZER PRACTICES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY California Avocado Society 1979 Yearbook 63: 50-57 REVIEW OF AVOCADO FERTILIZER PRACTICES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY C. Don Gustafson Farm Advisor, Cooperative Extension Service. University of California. San

More information

Seed Starting. What is a seed? Why Start Seeds? 2/17/2016. O Living time capsule of a plants DNA

Seed Starting. What is a seed? Why Start Seeds? 2/17/2016. O Living time capsule of a plants DNA Seed Starting Lynda Garvin Agriculture Agent Sandoval County lgarvin@nmsu.edu What is a seed? O Living time capsule of a plants DNA O Protective package O Food energy storage from germination to first

More information

Starting Your Garden Indoors. Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012

Starting Your Garden Indoors. Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012 Starting Your Garden Indoors Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012 Why Start Seeds Indoors? Plant hard-to-find varieties Save money Beat the winter blues Rewarding to grow a plant from seed

More information

Why transplants? Raising high quality vegetable transplants 2/27/2018. Dr. Ajay Nair Department of Horticulture Small Farm Conference

Why transplants? Raising high quality vegetable transplants 2/27/2018. Dr. Ajay Nair Department of Horticulture Small Farm Conference Raising high quality vegetable transplants Dr. Ajay Nair Department of Horticulture Small Farm Conference 2-10-2018 Why transplants? Uniform seed germination Eliminate variability caused by direct seeding

More information

WOODY AND TURF MANAGEMENT Lesson 14: FERTILIZERS

WOODY AND TURF MANAGEMENT Lesson 14: FERTILIZERS WOODY AND TURF MANAGEMENT Lesson 14: FERTILIZERS Segment One Assessing Plant Health and Soil A fertilizer is defined as a substance used to make the soil or growing medium more fertile. Frequently, the

More information

GUIDE TO EVALUATING THE RISK OF DISEASE IN A GREENHOUSE

GUIDE TO EVALUATING THE RISK OF DISEASE IN A GREENHOUSE GUIDE TO EVALUATING THE RISK OF DISEASE IN A GREENHOUSE The following is a guide to assessing the various procedures and equipment used in a greenhouse, keeping in mind the risk of pathogen, mite, and

More information

Soils. Nutrients needed by plants 10/21/2013. Consists of a series of layers called. Soils consists of: Topsoil (A horizon) upper most layer

Soils. Nutrients needed by plants 10/21/2013. Consists of a series of layers called. Soils consists of: Topsoil (A horizon) upper most layer Soils Consists of a series of layers called Topsoil (A horizon) upper most layer Soils consists of: Mineral particles determine soil texture Organic matter Air and Soil organisms Nutrients needed by plants

More information

Growing Lavender in Colorado

Growing Lavender in Colorado Growing Lavender in Colorado by K. A. Kimbrough and C.E. Swift 1 (10/09) Quick Facts... Hardy lavender varieties thrive in Colorado s USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 7. Lavender grows best in full sun and

More information

Central Florida Youth

Central Florida Youth Central Florida Youth Peach Tree Growing Contest UF/IFAS Polk County Extension Service 1702 US Hwy 17-98 South P.O. Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831-9005 Osceola County Extension Service Osceola

More information

CHECKLIST BMPs for FIELD NURSERIES REGULATIONS, SITE SELECTION, WATER MANAGEMENT

CHECKLIST BMPs for FIELD NURSERIES REGULATIONS, SITE SELECTION, WATER MANAGEMENT CHECKLIST BMPs for FIELD NURSERIES REGULATIONS, SITE SELECTION, WATER MANAGEMENT Regulations For information on the Wetlands Protection Act or the Water Management Act, contact the Massachusetts Department

More information

Soda Bottle Hydroponics Growing Plants Without Soil A lesson from the New Jersey Agricultural Society s Learning Through Gardening program

Soda Bottle Hydroponics Growing Plants Without Soil A lesson from the New Jersey Agricultural Society s Learning Through Gardening program Soda Bottle Hydroponics Growing Plants Without Soil A lesson from the New Jersey Agricultural Society s Learning Through Gardening program OVERVIEW: In this lesson, students will explore how to grow plants

More information

What is Hydroponics?

What is Hydroponics? Plant Propagation for Successful Hydroponic Production Hye-Ji Kim Assistant Professor of Sustainable Horticulture Crop Production February 13, 2018 What is Hydroponics? Hydroponics = hydros + ponos Water

More information

Trees, your other Plants: Fertilizer Application

Trees, your other Plants: Fertilizer Application Trees, your other Plants: Fertilizer Application Bert T. Swanson,Swanson s Nursery Consulting,Inc., Carl Rosen, University of Minnesota and Ed Plaster, Dakota Technical College Trees in urban and suburban

More information

Assessing and Amending Your Garden Soil Craig Cogger, Soil Scientist Emeritus Washington State University Puyallup

Assessing and Amending Your Garden Soil Craig Cogger, Soil Scientist Emeritus Washington State University Puyallup Assessing and Amending Your Garden Soil Craig Cogger, Soil Scientist Emeritus Washington State University Puyallup The soil is the great connector of our lives, the source and destination of all. - Wendell

More information

Apply approx 50-65g per square metre. Available in pack sizes: 1kg, 2kg and 5kg. Apply 100g per square metre, each spring. Water in well.

Apply approx 50-65g per square metre. Available in pack sizes: 1kg, 2kg and 5kg. Apply 100g per square metre, each spring. Water in well. FERTILISERS All Purpose Slow Release This is a balanced all round fertiliser with elements which can be used before, during and after planting, and helps with plant growth. Ideal for all chloride-sensitive

More information

Floral Notes. By . In This Issue. A Publication of the UMass Extension Floriculture Program

Floral Notes. By  . In This Issue. A Publication of the UMass Extension Floriculture Program A Publication of the UMass Extension Floriculture Program Floral Notes By email Volume 19, No. 6 www.umass.edu/umext/floriculture May-June 2007 In This Issue Summer Educational Programs... 2 Organic Fertilization

More information

Title: Lecture 16 Soil Water and Nutrients Speaker: Teresa Koenig Created by: Teresa Koenig, Kim Kidwell. online.wsu.edu

Title: Lecture 16 Soil Water and Nutrients Speaker: Teresa Koenig Created by: Teresa Koenig, Kim Kidwell. online.wsu.edu Title: Lecture 16 Soil Water and Nutrients Speaker: Teresa Koenig Created by: Teresa Koenig, Kim Kidwell online.wsu.edu Photos courtesy of Rich Koenig Photos courtesy of USDA NRCS Soil Water and Nutrients

More information

Tobacco Fertilization. Andy Bailey

Tobacco Fertilization. Andy Bailey Tobacco Fertilization Andy Bailey Plant nutrition 16 Essential Elements Non-mineral: Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen Macronutrients: Nitrogen, Potassium, Phosporous Needed in large amounts Deficiency common Secondary:

More information

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL ALFALFA ESTABLISHMENT

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL ALFALFA ESTABLISHMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL ALFALFA ESTABLISHMENT Garry D. Lacefield Extension Forage Specialist University of Kentucky Establishing a good stand of alfalfa is expensive and time consuming, but the success

More information

Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production. Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site

Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production. Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site 1 Terms Adequate sunlight Climate Compost Cool-season vegetables Cover crop Crop rotation Fertile soil

More information

Definitions in Handbook

Definitions in Handbook HORT325: Soils & Fertilizers Soil Composition Soil Texture/Structure & Water Capacity Soil ph & Nutrient Availability Fertilizers Soil Testing Definitions in Handbook Soil Structure Soil Porosity Pore

More information

G A Gardener's Guide for Soil and Nutrient Management in Growing Vegetables

G A Gardener's Guide for Soil and Nutrient Management in Growing Vegetables University of Nebraska - Lincoln DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln Historical Materials from University of Nebraska- Lincoln Extension Extension 1990 G90-945 A Gardener's Guide for Soil and

More information

Pruning Grapes. Establishment pruning Pruning mature vines Goal: to fill the trellis system as quickly as possible.

Pruning Grapes. Establishment pruning Pruning mature vines Goal: to fill the trellis system as quickly as possible. Pruning Grapes Establishment pruning Pruning mature vines Goal: to fill the trellis system as quickly as possible. Pruning Blueberries Goals: Remove older less productive wood Direct growth into new wood

More information

St. Augustine Orchid Society Top Dressing Your Orchids by Sue Bottom,

St. Augustine Orchid Society   Top Dressing Your Orchids by Sue Bottom, Orchid growers can talk about different orchid potting mixes for hours on end. Whether or not organic matter should be incorporated into a mix, what types of organic materials are preferable or is it better

More information

CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN

CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN CLASS NOTES ON WATERING YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN Keys To Vegetable Gardening Soil Sun Proper Plant Selection Watering Seasonal Planting PRIMARY FACTORS THAT IMPACT WATER NEEDS Soil (Mix, Ground, Raised Bed,

More information

Propagation System Manual

Propagation System Manual Salve Regina University Digital Commons @ Salve Regina Hydroponic Center 9-1-2011 Propagation System Manual Margaret Kane Salve Regina University, margaret.kane@salve.edu Follow this and additional works

More information

Aquaculture + Hydroponics = Aquaponics. Combining aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (raising vegetables without soil)

Aquaculture + Hydroponics = Aquaponics. Combining aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (raising vegetables without soil) www.sustainlife.org Introduction to Aquaponics Water for the Small Homestead Aquaculture + Hydroponics = Aquaponics Combining aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (raising vegetables without soil)

More information

SITE TOPSOIL & FINISH GRADING

SITE TOPSOIL & FINISH GRADING CITY OF BRAMPTON LANDSCAPE SPECIFICATIONS SECTION 02911-1 PART 1 GENERAL 1.1 Related Work.1 Section 02311 Site Grading.2 Section 02315 Excavating, Trenching, & Backfilling.3 Section 02906 Planting of Trees,

More information

Name DOB* Phone ** Address. I have read, understand, and agree to comply with the Mansfield Community Farm & Gardens guidelines.

Name DOB* Phone  ** Address. I have read, understand, and agree to comply with the Mansfield Community Farm & Gardens guidelines. Plot Holder Enrollment & Agreement Contract Mansfield Community Farm & Gardens Plot Rental 2018 Please submit enrollment form and payment to the service desk at, or mail to, Hockomock Area YMCA, c/o Community

More information

Organic Production in High Tunnels

Organic Production in High Tunnels Introduction Organic Production in High Tunnels Terrance T. Nennich Extension Professor and Regional Extension Educator Vegetable and Small Fruit production University of Minnesota Extension Crookston

More information

CHECKLIST NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

CHECKLIST NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT CHECKLIST NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT Field Production Take soil samples at or near the same time each year, so results from year to year can be compared. Take soil samples during mid summer or fall each year.

More information

Technology Transfer of Greenhouse Aeroponic Lettuce Production Information to Alberta Growers,

Technology Transfer of Greenhouse Aeroponic Lettuce Production Information to Alberta Growers, Technology Transfer of Greenhouse Aeroponic Lettuce Production Information to Alberta Growers, Nabeel Mohammed Greenhouse Research & Production Complex ( GRPC) Lacombe - AB January 18, 2017 Introduction:

More information

1. An example of a plant science career that belongs in any of the plant science areas is:

1. An example of a plant science career that belongs in any of the plant science areas is: Student Name: Teacher: Date: District: Robeson Assessment: 9_12 Agriculture AU10 - Agriscience Applications Test 2 Description: Obj 3.00 - Plant Science Form: 501 1. An example of a plant science career

More information

Understanding. Media Surfactants. for use in. Soilless Media

Understanding. Media Surfactants. for use in. Soilless Media Understanding Media Surfactants for use in Soilless Media Media wetting agents or media surfactants were first introduced to the horticultural industry over 40 years ago with the advent of soilless potting

More information

#3: Fertilize Appropriately

#3: Fertilize Appropriately #3: Fertilize Appropriately PREVENT POLLUTION AND MAXIMIZE PLANT HEALTH All plants need nutrients for growth. They must obtain these nutrients from the soil or other medium in which they re growing. Gardeners

More information

DIRT! APES Laboratory Activity

DIRT! APES Laboratory Activity Name: Part I: Soil Texture DIRT! APES Laboratory Activity Can one determine the texture of soil by examining the particles found in a particular sample? The purpose of this activity is to determine the

More information

BACTER / 100g

BACTER / 100g Substrate System ADA Substrate System has been developed after thorough research on natural environments. The substrate is a key factor for the growth of aquatic plants, and especially important for their

More information

Part III. Crop Information

Part III. Crop Information Part III. Crop Information All questions pertain to the crop in question only. Season when crop was grown Spring Summer Fall Winter Seed-Grown Plugs Crop(s) affected Cultivar(s) affected Grown from seed

More information

Soil Management Site Selection, Soil Fertility. Warren Roberts George Kuepper

Soil Management Site Selection, Soil Fertility. Warren Roberts George Kuepper Soil Management Site Selection, Soil Fertility Warren Roberts George Kuepper Where We re Going Soil Texture and Drainage Site Selection Soil Fertility & ph Fertilizers & Nutrients Later Sessions Soil Biology

More information

Vegetable Gardening In Containers

Vegetable Gardening In Containers Page 1 of 6 Vegetable Gardening In Containers Sam Cotner, Extension Horticulturist If your vegetable gardening is limited by insufficient space or an unsuitable area, consider the possibility of raising

More information

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN THE BACKYARD SERIES BACKYARD VEGETABLES W 346-A THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN SITE SELECTION AND SOIL TESTING Natalie Bumgarner, Assistant Professor and UT Extension Residential and Consumer Horticulture

More information

Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control

Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control Richard McAvoy Department of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture University of Connecticut richard.mcavoy@uconn.edu 860-486-2925 Environmental

More information

FOLIAR FEEDING and SAR for CITRUS TREES. Mongi Zekri and Gary England University of Florida, IFAS

FOLIAR FEEDING and SAR for CITRUS TREES. Mongi Zekri and Gary England University of Florida, IFAS FOLIAR FEEDING and SAR for CITRUS TREES Mongi Zekri and Gary England University of Florida, IFAS Management practices to improve fertilizer efficiency Evaluation of leaf analysis data Adjustment of rates

More information

Offering soil solutions for all your growing needs. and more...

Offering soil solutions for all your growing needs. and more... Offering soil solutions for all your growing needs and more... Ultimate Potting Mixes The most reliable mixes for all your growing needs All ferti-lome soilless mixes are designed according to every plants

More information

Why is. Vermont Organics. soil the best choice you can make?

Why is. Vermont Organics. soil the best choice you can make? Why is Vermont Organics soil the best choice you can make? We believe gardens should be good for the earth. That s why we use renewable resources in our soils to make gardening sustainable and environmentally

More information

A Plant & Soil Ecosystem

A Plant & Soil Ecosystem Introductory Study of Soils For the Master Gardeners Wendy Sue Harper, Ph.D. What We Will Cover Tonight Introduction Agroecological perspective to understanding the physical, chemical and biological properties

More information

Nursery Planning. Nursery Planning

Nursery Planning. Nursery Planning Nursery Planning An important, often neglected first step determine why a nursery is needed BEFORE beginning on-the ground activities Define objectives for nursery Ecosystem restoration? Urban Plantings?

More information

Levington Growing Media

Levington Growing Media Levington Growing Media A complete range of growing media to suit all soil types and crop situations. Seed & Modular - Low Nutrient - F1 Seed & Modular - F2 With Sand A fine compost for seed sowing and

More information

Love Dirt. healthy soil, healthy future. Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President

Love Dirt. healthy soil, healthy future. Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President Love Dirt healthy soil, healthy future Mission Composts! John Paul, PhD President Mission Composts! Soil organic matter What is compost? Mission composts! Compost for lawns What is Soil? Soil is 95 to

More information

Fertigation. There are four fundamental components for success with fertigation: 1) Do not irrigate longer than 1 hour at a time.

Fertigation. There are four fundamental components for success with fertigation: 1) Do not irrigate longer than 1 hour at a time. Cont i nuedbel ow. Fertigation Fertigation is the process by which fertilizers are applied through the irrigation system. This practice relies on two different types of fertilizer: ready to use liquid

More information

Soil. The Foundation of the Garden

Soil. The Foundation of the Garden Soil The Foundation of the Garden Soil Type ph Soil Tests Soil Compaction and Drainage Soil Improvement Macro and Micro Nutrients Macro and Micro Organisms Soil Particles Sand Silt Clay Soil Type Mostly

More information

WANTED! To find out wich products contain mycorrhizae, look for this logo!

WANTED! To find out wich products contain mycorrhizae, look for this logo! This all-natural product line is formulated for different indoor and outdoor planting activities. MYKE products are easy to use and safe for the environment, gardeners, their families and even their pets.

More information

THE FOREST NURSERY AND ITS SOILS

THE FOREST NURSERY AND ITS SOILS THE FOREST NURSERY AND ITS SOILS Dr. Jack May, Professor School of Forestry University of Georgia Forest tree nurseries are located on a variety of soils ranging in texture from sand to silt loam in the

More information