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Marijuana Grower's Handbook

Page 30

by Ed Rosenthal


  11.Attach an emitter to each of the cubes.

  12.The spare emitter is placed in the system to check what’s going on. Place it in a large measuring cup to get an exact reading of how much water is being emitted.

  EQUIPMENT

  •Sturdy table or frame with top

  •Five plastic gutters, four cut to 8' (2.43 m), one cut to 4' (1.2 m).

  •Silicon glue and/or fasteners

  •Four caps

  •Catchment bucket

  •Sump pump

  •Reservoir

  •Submersible pump

  •Tubing

  •Spaghetti tubing

  •33 connectors

  •33 drip emitters

  •32 rockwool cubes measuring 4” x 4” x 4” (10 x 10 x 10 cm)

  •Large measuring cup

  NUTRIENT FILM TECHNIQUE

  The nutrient film technique (NFT) uses a film of water that is constantly moving around the roots. This technique is used in many commercial greenhouses to cultivate fast growing vegetables such as lettuce without any medium.

  Most NFT systems use net pots sitting in covers over flat-bottomed, ribbed, heavy plastic trays that are 4”-6” (10-15 cm) wide and also 4-6” (10-15 cm) tall. A film of water passes slowly over the flat bottom. The roots dangle from the containers and thrive in the moist air created by the closed environment. Within a short time the roots reach the water in the bottom of the gutter and thrive in the flowing oxygenated water/nutrient solution.

  The plant roots grow in a covered tray irrigated by a shallow, slow-flowing nutrient solution, so good aeration of the nutrient/water solution is essential for fast healthy growth. Aerating the water in the reservoir using water circulation, air bubblers and water sprays that come in contact with air assure oxygenation.

  NFT systems can be enhanced using misters that spray water in all directions. The highly oxygenated spray keeps the humidity high in the air space above the flow of nutrients. Some growers will place air stones in the NFT trays to be sure that roots can have adequate supplies of oxygen for gas exchange. Remember that good air in the root zone helps plants take up nutrients faster and easier!

  Reservoirs that hold large volumes of water keep the pH and nutrient levels more stable than small reservoirs. Figure that the system for each 600 watt lamp requires a reservoir that holds about 25 gallons (94 l) of water.

  NFT systems are best for growing small plants rather than large ones for two reasons. Large plants have prodigious root growth that tends to eventually block the water channel. Secondly, they don’t supply a lot of support for the stem. With small plants this isn’t a problem but it causes large plants to tip and fall over if they are not supported.

  These recirculating drip containers each contain their own reservoir. The tubes outside indicate water level.

  Drip irrigation containers were held in place with drainage tubing.

  Another type of NFT system doesn’t use channels, but ordinary planting containers that are filled with LECA overcomes these limitations. The containers are placed either in a planting tray or channels wider than the containers. The recirculating system uses a drip hose with no emitters attached to deliver a continuous stream of water from a reservoir to the tops of the containers. The water flows over the pebbles in a thin film so the roots have access to both water and oxygen. Should the roots grow out of the containers they are embraced by a stream of water flowing in the channel or a drain placed at a 1" or 2" level (2.5 - 6 cm) level that keeps a thin pool of water in the tray.

  This home-made aeroponics system was made using square PVC fence-posts, a clone sprayer, and Rubbermaid storage bins. The water/nutrient solution was aerated in the storage bin and pumped through the fence-posts to be misted on the roots, which thrived in this system. Roots in an aeroponic system do not anchor into a medium, so they require support. This system can be supported by PVC bars (pictured) as well as with a "Screen of Green (SCROG)." Photo: Stinkbud

  AEROPONICS

  Aeroponic systems spray an atomized mist of water/nutrient solution directly on the roots. The tiny droplets of fast-moving water are well aerated so they constantly replenish the roots with oxygen. The nutrient/water spray also delivers nutrients in an absorbable form which encourages extremely fast growth.

  Aeroponics systems are used mostly for cloning and many cloning machines that use this technique are available. Appropriate aeroponic systems can maintain plants through flowering and ripening.

  In both clone and plant systems the plants are held in small baskets, usually 2.5-5” (6.5-12.5 cm) in diameter, and filled with rockwool or LECA. Pumps produce a high-pressure 10-20 micron mist spray that flows over the roots that grow out of the baskets with a constant shower or waterfall. The container is set into a tube or tray that sits 6-15” (15-40 cm) over the bottom.

  A plastic storage container with cutouts in the cover can be modified to use as an aeroponic unit.

  Use a pump that puts out 60 pounds per square inch (psi) (27.2 kg per 6.45 sq cm), which is strong enough to produce a fine spray. Less powerful pumps result in a coarser spray. Use a recycling timer to set the pump to spray for a minute and then rest for three.

  To prevent bacterial infection, add 1:12 parts 3% hydrogen peroxide or a 1:40 parts 10% hydrogen peroxide solution every three days.

  The roots grow down to the bottom of the container and then continue growing. In order for the water to drain, place the tube or container at a 2.5° angle, 1”or 1 cm for each 40” or 40 cm of length. If the root growth is too prolific and clogs the water so it has trouble draining, increase the angle.

  Another way to prevent disease in an aeroponic system is to use a UVC water sterilizing light. It damages microorganism DNA that passes through in the water stream.

  Aeroponic cloners shoot a fine mist at the cuttings which provides them with plenty of air and water.

  Aeroponic gardens can produce large yields and speed up growth and maturation time. The problem is that there is little room for error. Should the spray stop or the misters malfunction, the plants go down in a matter of hours. For this reason gardeners use small reliable aeroponic clone units but few venture to grow plants to maturity using this technique.

  OUTDOOR HYDROPONICS

  Plants grow very well in hydroponic systems outdoors. Unlike soil systems, where the roots are in a dynamic environment that sometimes limits their access to water and nutrients, the hydroponic environment ensures access to adequate quantities.

  Hydroponic systems are water savers because water does not seep below the root level and none drains away, taking it beyond useful bounds. Also, virtually no water is lost to evaporation since the growing units are enclosed on top. The plant utilizes almost all the water going into the reservoir.

  Rockwool slabs can be used outdoors or in a greenhouse.

  Hydroponic units can also be used to control root temperature. A water heater keeps the roots warm during cool weather. Water chillers are used to cool the water during hot weather.

  To grow a large plant hydroponically, a large container is required. The largest commercial container is 16 gallons (60.5 l). It supports a plant with a diameter of about 8' (2.5 m). You can make larger units using plastic storage containers.

  Most hydroponic systems can be used, including wick and reservoir systems which need no power.

  The pumps for recirculating drip, deep water culture and ebb and flow systems can be powered using a small portable solar panel. The panel supplies the pump power during the sunny part of the day, when the plants require more water.

  Smaller hydro units can also be used outdoors. Even a five- gallon (19 l) unit can support a large plant. The problem with smaller units becomes apparent when the plants grow larger. On warm sunny days they quickly use all the water in the reservoir. This water must be replaced as needed or the roots and plant will suffer irreparable damage.

  One solution to this problem is an auxiliary or central reservoir that feeds the hydroponic unit(s)
on demand. Many commercial units have integrated reservoirs into the system.

  Plant support often becomes a problem with smaller hydroponic units. The root system is held in a small amount of planting medium, leaving the unit top heavy.

  Planting holes are easily converted into hydro units using pool liner to hold the water. You will have to brace the walls so they don’t collapse.

  Pea-sized lava chips or another inexpensive gravel that is available locally are often good choices as planting mediums for outdoor hydroponic systems. They are inexpensive and heavier than clay pellets so they provide more mass to support a heavy plant. The lava chips often have irregular surfaces, cracks and crevices that hold the roots tightly, are re-useable, and have capillary action. To increase the capillary action of the planting medium add peat moss or vermiculite at the rate of about 1 part to 10 by volume. This coats the rock with absorbent material that wicks water.

  OUTDOOR IRRIGATION & HYDROPONICS

  Water is one of the five limiting factors. Plants react to the environment by adjusting their growth. The difference in growth between a plant receiving adequate water and one that has limited access may not be immediately apparent, especially if they are in different gardens. The adequately irrigated plant grows larger faster and yields more, but matures slightly later than the plant on water rations.

  The water needs of plants vary incredibly because of plant size, climactic conditions and the temperature, rainfall, and the water holding capacity of the soil.

  In areas where rain falls during the summer or where there is a high water table, which among other areas, includes most of northern Europe, eastern Canada, and the eastern U.S., and other areas, there may be no need to irrigate plants at all or to use it as just a supplement to natural sources.

  Automatic drip makes watering easy. The water was distributed to feeder lines pierced with spaghetti tubing.

  GeoPot containers air prune roots forcing them to branch out and form more feeder roots. The porous fabric provides for better drainage. A velcro side seam makes removal for transplanting easy. Some smaller bags have handles. Larger sizes can be used to grow plants to maturity.

  In areas where there is a summer drought such as parts of southern Europe and the North American west, irrigation is required or the plants will die.

  Outdoor plants and gardens can be irrigated using a hose that fills a trough reservoir, using a gravity powered canal that delivers water to a group of plants or most efficiently using a drip system.

  Overhead watering is very inefficient because of loss to evaporation and the shotgun approach of delivering water in areas where there are no crop roots. Once the plants are flowering, overhead water is dangerous to the buds which are susceptible to attack by mold when moisture is present.

  DRIP SYSTEMS OUTDOORS

  Drip irrigation is a 90% more efficient method of delivering water to plants outdoors than other methods. That is much higher than flooding an area using a hose, or overhead spraying. The result is more water delivered to the root zone than any other watering system. Drip irrigation has other benefits that make it useful. It is easy to install, easy to design and is inexpensive.

  Drip systems use pressure from the public water system, gravity or a pump to deliver water where it is wanted. Spaghetti lines tap off a main delivery line that is connected to the water source. An emitter on the other end of the spaghetti line controls the rate at which water flows.

  As with other plumbing systems there are all kinds of accessories to deal with problems that may be encountered by plants or gardens. Some of these are gardens located on different levels, remote gardens and different size plants with varying water needs. The plants can be fertilized using a fertilizer siphon placed in the water line.

  Irrigation systems vary tremendously in their complexity resulting from the tasks they are designed to accomplish. Store bought kits are suitable for most backyard gardens. Even simpler is the pinhole pail or bag irrigation. A container is filled with water. The water slowly drips to the desired area through small holes drilled or pierced into the reservoir. It delivers water slowly to the plant so that little is lost.

  For even distribution, use a water soaker hose, which “leaks” water through its porous material.

  SECURITY

  A few guidelines can help keep your secret garden a secret:

  •Keep your mouth shut

  •Don’t act suspicious

  •Respect Mother Nature

  •Keep your indoor grow space clean, safe, and up to code

  •Control the odor

  •Be a good citizen, neighbor, and friend

  •Be wary of your internet presence

  …and most importantly,

  •KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!

  GET FAMILIAR WITH THE LAW

  In the United States, there is considerable ambiguity in the laws about cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis—medical or recreational. According to federal law, marijuana is still a prohibited Schedule I drug subject to hefty mandatory minimum sentences. But more than a dozen states have said medical use is legal, and many have decriminalized possession of modest amounts for recreational use. In states where medical marijuana is legal, the laws are often convoluted and localized, and none provide protection from standing federal laws. Now more than ever, it is important to keep your garden secure and ensure that you will not get busted or, in the event that you are, that the charges won’t stick.

  The first thing to do is make sure you understand the law and your rights where you live. Although a state may have passed a medical marijuana law, in some states, individual cities and counties pass and enforce their own measures and restrictions.

  The language of medical marijuana laws can be confusing, and the legal status of specific provisions are susceptible to rapidly evolving interpretations as courts, legislators, public agencies, and law enforcement seek to obstruct, modify or implement the laws’ intent.

  HOW YOU GET BUSTED

  SNITCHES

  Most busts happen when word of your garden makes it to the cops. There are two types of informants: the involved informant, and the uninvolved informant. The involved informant, or snitch, is the worst kind of person but also the easiest to guard against by being discreet.

  Every time you tell someone about your garden, you should assume you have just told ten people. You may consider the person to be trustworthy, and the friend most likely doesn’t mean to expose your secret maliciously, but that friend may end up “accidentally” telling another friend who ends up being less than trustworthy.

  Often the snitch is a jilted ex-lover, a disgruntled former business partner, or someone you just irritated, such as a neighbor you argued with over parking or party noise. Sometimes the bust is a direct result of your loose talk or other indiscretion. Don’t mess with your friends’ lovers.

  Seriously evaluate the character of the people you recruit to help you with your grow, and use common sense in how you act. In small towns, everyone knows the local gossip: what people do for a living, their hobbies and habits, and their daily schedules. You can’t control this, but you don’t have to make it worse, either.

  You should have some “legitimate” work or source of income. Having inherited money is not uncommon, but getting welfare assistance in the off-season and passing as wealthy when the crop comes in will make people talk.

  If you party excessively at harvest time or flash cash, you’ll be identified as a grower. The garden’s location will become a matter of speculation. If it is at or near your house, it will be found. People who act outrageously in public are often busted and cause official inquiries into their lives. This causes problems, especially if they’re not prepared to answer questions about money sources.

  If you attract the attention of the wrong sort of people, you and your family could be in serious danger. Snitches and undercover cops are bad enough, but there are also armed thieves out there who will kill.

  “Don't you brag and don't you bo
ast Grief comes to those who brag the most”

  Lyrics: Clancy Eccles, "Bag-A-Boo"

  Successful growers resist the temptation to talk to strangers who seem to have an interest in marijuana. Even if the stranger doesn’t seem to know who you are, he or she can create problems. Undercover cops often say they’re growers, seem to know a lot, and don’t hesitate to talk about their projects. If you are smart, you won’t take this as a sign that these are “real” or friendly people.

  Learn to read the warning signs. Does a friend suddenly want to reminisce over the phone about “old times”—including specific dates, names, and amounts? Have they started referring to “nicknamed” friends by their given names? Have they been in trouble with the law recently? Did your friend suddenly transform from an “it’s 4:20 all day long” smoker to a social-smoking, one-hitter quitter? Did they actually “reform,” or did the cops make them agree not to partake while they bust others? Do they now score and split instead of hanging out to smoke a joint?

  Just because someone still smokes with you does not mean they aren‘t a potential snitch. Cops and snitches still use drugs while undercover (and probably on their own time as well), even though they will probably deny it in front of a judge. In court, you might implicate yourself further if you mention that the informant was your smoke buddy.

  Don’t associate with suspected or proven snitches. Tell them you don’t want them coming around you, your house, your children or friends. If they approach you or your group of friends in public, politely ask them to leave. If they refuse, the group should reassemble elsewhere.

  Do not engage in a conversation with any person you suspect. If the snitch persists, do not become violent, but you may have to be impolite. You may even have to call the police and file stalking charges or get a restraining order

 

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