Maximum Yield USA 2015 April | Page 128

growing strong seedlings Microbial Inoculants Treating seedlings with microbial inoculants is also a good idea. Some microbes fix nitrogen from the air and feed it to the plant, others solubilize phosphorus, and some produce plant protection agents and rooting hormones. For example, some micro-organisms produce the amino acid tryptophan on the surface of the roots. The root cells easily absorb the tryptophan and transport it to the leaves, where it is converted into IAA. The IAA is then pumped to the roots to stimulate the growth of new root hairs. Beneficial microbes also produce siderophores. The word siderophore literally means “iron carrier.” One of the strongest chelators of iron in nature, siderophores act indirectly as plant protection agents. As beneficial bacteria colonize the root surface, siderophores sequester iron and Phosphorus is the energy element. It energizes the rooting process, and extra phosphorus is included in most commercial starter fertilizers.” make it unavailable to foreign invaders so the roots are protected from root pathogens such as pythium and rhizoctonia. Some soilless mixes take advantage of the process by adding certain species of bacillus subtilis to the blend and calling it a biofungicide. Propagation is easy if you have the right tools and follow a few simple instructions. Just give the seeds a good soaking, and provide adequate light and warmth. Afterwards, it only takes a little coaxing to grow strong, healthy seedlings with thick stems and dark green foliage. Propagation is the least expensive part of indoor growing, so don’t be afraid to throw in a few extra seeds, and always select the best of the best! 126 Maximum Yield USA  |  April 2015