Many people have the desire to learn about hydroponics, but many times they are intimidated by all of the pumps, timers, and equipment associated with the hobby. Here’s a spotlight on one of the systems we feel is a great starting point for automation without needing to have a full understanding of hydroponics. The Autopot is one of our favorites because it is so easy to maintain. Unlike other growing systems, the Autopot does not require electrical power, making it reliable and easy just … [Read more...] about Autopots All The Way
Hydroponics
Advantages of Ebb & Flow
-Gabrial House- Today we are going to look at the advantages of setting up an Ebb & Flow hydroponic garden. Ebb & Flow also known as “flood and drain” is an effective, easy to use, hydroponic system for both expert and novice gardeners alike. Ebb & Flow consists of a flood tray, tray stand, reservoir, and pump. You will also need a couple feet of black vinyl tube, ebb and flow outlets, and screens. The setup is super simple. The flood tray sits on the tray stand above … [Read more...] about Advantages of Ebb & Flow
Starting Seeds Under Lights
-Luis Guerra- You may have noticed that this year at several Fifth Season locations we grew our own plant starts to sell. Combined from our Asheville, Carrboro, and Charlottesville, VA stores, we sowed thousands of seeds. We grew heirloom tomatoes, some of the hottest peppers in the world, culinary herbs, and many types of greens for salads and sautéing. We started mixing our own starting soil recipe, using all organic components and natural trace minerals. During your next visit, ask … [Read more...] about Starting Seeds Under Lights
It’s As Simple As Water
-Gabrial House- Water is the lifeblood of any plant growth. When choosing to grow plants hydroponically, a clean fresh water source is the foundation of success. The water acts as a catalyst to the plant for transporting nutrients and oxygen, which is a key element of a plant’s life cycle. In this blog we will go over appropriate sources of clean water, water temperature, and the maintenance of a healthy root system. Whether you are growing indoors or out, selecting the right water … [Read more...] about It’s As Simple As Water
Hydroponic Growing Media (Part 2)
-Luis Guerra- In my last submission for the Fifth Season blog, I spoke about three types of media used in hydroponic growing: Canna coco, expanded clay pebbles by Hydrocorn, and Sunleaves ‘Rocks.’ These are all great choices, but they are not the only options available. This post will cover three additional growing media for use in hydroponic growing. Let’s start by talking about rockwool. Produced by heating basalt rock and chalk into a molten lava, rockwool is then spun out (sort of … [Read more...] about Hydroponic Growing Media (Part 2)
Hydroponic Growing Media (Part 1)
-Luis Guerra- One of the first questions we get asked at Fifth Season when someone is just starting out in hydroponics is, “What is the best medium to grow in?” In this blog post, I will share my experience with various growing media, as well as feedback I have gathered from professionals within the industry. First, let’s get an understanding of what growing media are. Media are materials that physically support plant growth. A good medium supplies a plant’s roots with enough air … [Read more...] about Hydroponic Growing Media (Part 1)
The Benefit of Light Movers
Adding light movers to your indoor growing plan allows you to cover more canopy area without increasing the amount of light you use. Typically, a 1000 Watt HID lighting system will cover an area of up to five sq. ft. with the right reflector. Utilizing a Light Rail light mover can increase your footprint by 30% without needing to add another light – ultimately helping to cut down both on the need for both heat remediation and rising electrical costs. Running a light mover also helps to … [Read more...] about The Benefit of Light Movers
Adding Vitamins to your Regimen
One great way of upgrading your crop insurance is the introduction of vitamins as part your feeding schedule. Now I know what you’re thinking: plants naturally produce their own vitamins on demand, why would I need to add more? This is true, however…… Most of us prefer little to NO interruptions in a grow cycle. When plants get stressed, however, they go into a hibernation mode to conserve energy and recover. This recovery time is important in order to save your harvest, but can cost you up … [Read more...] about Adding Vitamins to your Regimen
Signature Hydroponic Products from our Top Lines at Fifth Season
Every hydroponic nutrient line has their very own signature product(s). Normally their signature product is unlike any other product found on the market. Countless hours of research are invested into the uniqueness and potency of these products. I have put together a few items I personally believe to be unique within the industry myself. All of these products should be available for purchase at your local Fifth Season Gardening store. First on my list is Canna Boost. Canna Boost is a … [Read more...] about Signature Hydroponic Products from our Top Lines at Fifth Season
The Benefits of Carbo-Loading
Once you start becoming successful at growing vegetables, flowers, or herbs hydroponically, you might notice there are some flavors and aromas that may be missing from your plants - the flavors and aromas you normally get from the same plants cultivated in rich garden soil outdoors. Mineralfertilizers can surely grow your plants, but your babies will most likely need some additional help to live up to their best genetic potential. That is where supplementing with carbohydrates comes into … [Read more...] about The Benefits of Carbo-Loading
