MAX FACTS GROWING TIPS, NEWS AND TRIVIA
Can Beet Juice
Improve Endurance?
Beet juice and nitrates have been gaining more attention for
their ability to improve athletic performance and reduce blood
pressure. A diet rich in vegetables can improve cardiovascular
health, due to its high-nitrate content. While all vegetables
contain some nitrates, they are more abundant in beets, leafy
greens, spinach, celery, endives, fennel, arugula, leeks and
parsley. Several studies have confirmed the effects of nitrates on
athletic performance, including a study done at the University of
Exeter’s School of Sport and Health Sciences. The study followed
eight male cyclists who consumed about two cups of beet juice daily,
for six days. The control group drank 500 ml of black currant cordial.
The beet juice group was able to cycle an average of 16% longer, and
men in the beet juice group also had lower resting blood pressure.
(Source: active.com)
Students Get to Study Hydroponics
Young students in Ironwood, Michigan, will soon get a chance to try their hand at hydroponic
gardening thanks to the Michigan State Police, which donated several pieces of hydro
equipment to the school district. The school will use the equipment to teach students
about food production. “We hope to start growing our own fruits and vegetables for
snacks for the children,” says Grade 2 teacher Michelle Trier. The equipment, which
includes a variety of grow lights, will also likely be used in science experiments.
MSP Sgt. Glenn Gauthier says he approached the school last year about the
donation while a case moved through the legal system. “It’s nice for us to be able
to support the school system and give them the opportunity to be able to do
things for the kids that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford,” he says.
(Source: yourdailyglobe.com)
Frost Watch
As the outdoor growing season shifts into winter mode, growers’ attention turns to protecting
food plants and flower beds. Frost occurs when temperatures drop to just below freezing and
cause ice crystals to form in plant cells, damaging the cell walls. Leaves then shrivel [