House & Garden Growers Journal 2017 May 2017 | Page 43

3. Keep up a healthy flow:
Salt build-ups and toxicities can occur in plumbing, pumps, reservoirs and within your substrate. Always ensure
to use Drip Clean and flush according to the system demands to prevent clogged pipes and nutrient lockout. This
will encourage the longevity of your system and allow for better tasting fruits at the end of a harvest!
Always remember to use H&G Drip Clean to prevent build ups and keep your pipes clean!
4. Pets are not good for plants!
Always ensure that pets don’t sneak into growrooms or visit while you’re working on the crop. Pet fur and their
lack of sterile practices can cause havoc in a sealed environment, and some have a habit of nibbling at delicious
fruit or flowers!
5. Smoking is bad for your plants too!
Cigarette smoke and certain infected tobacco products can contaminate workers hands. Cigars, cigarettes, and
pipe tobaccos can be infected with tobacco mosaic virus. This causes drastic leaf discolouration and mottled
colours; distortion of fruit set and heavily reduced harvest. TMV is often mistaken for herbicide damage or mineral
deficiency. The carcinogens in the smoke is also extremely toxic to your plants, always ensure you take cigarette
breaks in responsible locations and make sure to thoroughly wash your hands after smoking!
Planning and appropriate preparation is essential for beautiful plants and a healthy harvest. It’s always better to err
on the side of caution with production horticulture hygiene practices. Clean initial working practices will also save you
money throughout the life of the crop; no wasting money on expensive remedies for problems!
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