Maximum Yield USA December 2016 | Page 102

SEASONAL GROW TIPS When choosing a software platform, remember to find one that can be upgraded as the growroom evolves. For example, while on the other side of the world, there is technology available that allows gardeners to use a nutrient doser to actually add pH solution or nutrients to improve the reservoir mix. Having the correct monitoring equipment is key so data is correct and growers can act accordingly. Technology like this means that when you are vacationing, there are no worries over having a friend who doesn't know anything about gardening check on the pets and plants since you have the data right there on your smartphone. Back-up During Loss of Power When power is disrupted, which is often the result of powerful winter storms, it is incredibly destructive to the garden. Anything from pumps, fans, air conditioning, dehumidification, lights, or any other major players in your garden can be completely wiped out until the power outage is corrected. Depending on how it is configured, total crop loss can occur from power outages. There are ways to protect against this type of loss, such as providing back-up power, watering by hand, or using dimmer battery-powered lighting to at least wake up plants that should be awake when there are temporarily no lights to do so. The main goals are to prevent stress to the crop and to restore power or create alternate power as soon as possible using a generator, extension cords, etc. Don't return to stressed plants, do some planning and RETURN TO A THRIVING CROP." 100 Maximum Yield USA  |  December 2016