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3 Tips for Growing in Coco Coir

Coco coir occupies a grey area between soil/soilless media and hydroponic gardening. While it may feel like soil, coco acts and performs much like a hydroponic system. For example, growers using a coco-based medium can expect to water their plants more often, feed with a slightly more concentrated nutrient solution, and irrigate plants at lower pH levels. But don’t let these conditions discourage you from experimenting with coco coir – the potential benefits of establishing plants in coconut mediums are incredible; it’s not unlikely for plants in coco to outgrow rival flora in peat moss or rockwool. If you’re thinking about making the move to coco, read the passages below for 3 tips for growing in coco coir. 

What is Coco Coir? 

Plant-grade coco coir is a simple byproduct of the coconut fiber industry. Between the husk and the coconut meat is a dense but fibrous layer of threads. When processed, the milk and meat of the coconut are usually combined or sold separately as food products, while the husk is sold to adjacent industries to be made into textiles or fabrics. The middle section, however, is set aside, ground up, composted, or thrown away; only recently has the coir been sold to agricultural industries for use in the garden. Although, this use of the coconut byproduct has led growers to rely on coco coir as a powerful medium with an array of potential benefits. 

While it may feel like soil, coco acts and performs much like a hydroponic system.

For example, instead of throwing away or composting the leftover byproduct, the fibers of the coir can be ground into a fine medium, washed, dried, and sold to growers in loose or brick form. Some coco medium manufacturers, like Royal Gold, even enrich the coconut fibers with a calcium charge to ensure the medium is ready to use right out of the bag. While using a coconut fiber medium, growers can expect a host of benefits. Read the following passages for the expected benefits and more tips and advice on growing in coco coir. 

Benefits of Using Coco Coir:

The coconut byproduct has led growers to rely on coco coir as a powerful medium with an array of potential benefits. 

Tips For Growing in Coco Coir

#1: Treat Coco like a Hydroponic System 

While coco coir fiber feels like a soil system, it behaves much like other hydroponic media. So, treat your coco medium like a hydroponic system. This can mean watering your crop less but at a higher frequency. Coconut fiber is light, airy, and highly porous, but it also has the potential to hold incredible amounts of moisture when saturated. If young plants in coco are over-watered, it can quickly damage a crop. So, start by irrigating your plants with small amounts of water once or twice a day, and increase the volume of liquid feed as your crop grows. 

Coconut fiber is light, airy, and
highly porous.

#2: Use a Calcium Magnesium Supplement 

Calcium and/or magnesium deficiencies are a common problem for growers utilizing coconut coir. To avoid these issues, consider supplementing your crop with a source of calcium and magnesium. Most high-quality fertilizers include a boost of calcium and magnesium. So why is additional cal-mag needed? This question can be easily answered when cultivators examine the relationship between coconut media and calcium/magnesium.

In short, the cation exchange sites in coco coir will lock on to the calcium-magnesium elements in fertilizer and render them unavailable to the plant. So, growers must provide a larger dose to ensure that Ca and Mg are available to plants. 

#3: Pre-Charge Your Medium

Some coco mediums are not pre-charged with a dose of calcium-magnesium. Read the label on your loose or brick coco and determine whether or not the manufacturer of the product enriched their medium with minerals. If the coco has been rinsed and dried but not charged with minerals, it’s highly recommended that cultivators irrigate and enrich their medium with a low dose of nutrients and a calcium-magnesium supplement before transplanting. This charge will provide young plants with a foundation of minerals upon transplant and further support root expansion and nutrient uptake in the vegetative stage. 

It’s highly recommended that cultivators irrigate and enrich their medium before transplanting.

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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Why Growers Should Read the Guaranteed Analysis on Fertilizer

Plants absorb a wide variety of elements throughout their lifecycle. In total, there are 16 essential nutrients that plants need to maintain healthy patterns of growth. If you’re new to cultivation, choosing a nutrient product for your garden can be a challenging task. However, understanding the contents of fertilizer can help influence purchasing decisions. For example, inspecting the guaranteed analysis can be a great way to determine whether or not a nutrient product would be beneficial in your garden. Read the passages below to learn how to read the guaranteed analysis on fertilizer. But first, read the section below titled, “General Nutrient Considerations”, to learn about the elements that are required to keep plants happy and healthy. 

General Nutrient Considerations

Plants in any environment need a vast array of elements to maintain periods of vigorous growth. In total, there are 16 essential elements necessary for healthy and deficient-free plant growth. These elements are separated into three categories called, macro, secondary, and micronutrients, and are typically combined at an adequate rate within liquid, powdered, or granular nutrient supplements. However, growers must be aware of the combination of elements within fertilizers – inspecting the guaranteed analysis can assist in fine-tuning a cultivator’s approach to fertilization. 

What is a Guaranteed Analysis?

Law requires that fertilizer manufacturers display the contents of liquid, powder, and granular fertilizers on the back of containers in the guaranteed analysis section. This basic label describes the percentage of macro (primary), secondary, and micronutrients in each formula. So, if you’re interested in learning more about the importance of reading the guaranteed analysis, follow the sections below for more information.

Important Terms:

  • Micronutrients: Trace elements required in very small amounts. Includes iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), boron (B), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), sodium (Na), cobalt (Co), silicon (Si), and nickel (Ni). 
  • Secondary Nutrients: Calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S). 
  • Macronutrients: Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Important elements needed in the highest concentrations. Listed as the three numbers on the front of fertilizer containers- also referred to as N-P-K.

Why Read the Guaranteed Analysis?

Growers can reference the guaranteed analysis on the back of fertilizer containers to fine-tune nutrient enrichment and safeguard against nutrient toxicity and deficiencies. More than that, cultivators can inspect the different types of elements used in nutrient formulas to ensure they meet specific standards of quality. 

Reading the Guaranteed Analysis Examples:

Example #1: Cover Your Bases 

Before purchasing fertilizer, cultivators can reference the guaranteed analysis to ensure their plants are getting the necessary macro, secondary, and micronutrients to maintain healthy patterns of growth. Follow the example below to learn how to cover your bases!

Reference the guaranteed analysis on the back of fertilizer to ensure your plants are getting the nutrients they need to remain healthy and happy. Take GreenPlanet’s 3-Part for example.

If we examine the guaranteed analysis on the back of GP3 Micro, Grow, and Bloom, we can evidence all the essential elements needed for aggressive vegetative and flowering growth. 

GP3 Micro, for instance, contains an aggressive amount of the primary macronutrient nitrogen (N), as well as a long list of trace elements like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), boron (B), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and cobalt (Co). The nitrogen and micronutrient component of GP3 compliments the other two parts of the program beautifully. For example, GP3 Grow contains essential secondary nutrients such as magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S), while GP3 Bloom is packed with highly concentrated sources of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The combination of these products gives plants a wide variety of micro, secondary and macro elements to uptake during periods of growth and bloom. 

Click here to view GP3 Micro Guaranteed Analysis

Click here to view GP3 Grow Guaranteed Analysis

Click here to view GP3 Bloom Guaranteed Analysis

Example #2: Select Specific Elements

Growers might reference the back of fertilizer to select elements needed in specific stages of growth. Read the passages below to learn how reading the guaranteed analysis will help you pick and choose what nutrients your plants absorb.  

Growers might reference the back of fertilizer to select elements needed in specific stages of growth. Read the passages below to learn how reading the guaranteed analysis will help you pick and choose what nutrients your plants absorb.  

If your plants are experiencing a nutrient deficiency, the guaranteed analysis can be inspected for evidence of an element that might quickly remedy the issue. A calcium magnesium deficiency is a common problem in the garden.

Luckily, calcium and magnesium are major components in GreenPlanet’s Pro-Cal. So, if you happen to notice the development of a calcium or magnesium deficiency in your plants, growers can reference and incorporate Pro Cal into their feeding program to rid plants of nutrient deficiencies.

Click here to view Pro Cal Guaranteed Analysis

Example #3: Quality Controlled Ingredients

Not all ingredients are created equal. So, if you’re on the hunt for the best raw ingredients, reference the guaranteed analysis and read the “derived from” section. Read the passages below to learn more about the benefits of inspecting the source of elements in nutrient formulations. 

GreenPlanet formulates its nutrients with the cleanest raw ingredients. Let’s take Hydro Fuel Grow A&B as an example. At the bottom of the guaranteed analysis, you’ll notice a list titled “derived from”. While the guaranteed analysis describes the percentage of elements contained within the formulation, the “derived from” section describes the source of the element. This is important for a few reasons. First, some elements, like calcium, have different grades that range in quality and solubility. Calcium carbonate, for example, is generally regarded as a low-quality source of calcium because of its insoluble nature. Hydro Fuel contains no carbonates, bi-carbonates, unnaturally derivatives, or fillers. However, it’s always a good idea to quality assure the ingredients you’re feeding your plants by inspecting the guaranteed analysis. 

Click here to view Hydro Fuel Grow A Guaranteed Analysis

Click here to view Hydro Fuel Grow B Guaranteed Analysis

Second, some nutrient manufacturers, like GreenPlanet, include multiple sources of high-quality ingredients. For example, Hydro Fuel Grow (A) contains three unique sources of chelated iron (Iron EDTA, Iron EDDHA, Iron DTPA). Not all brands include multiple sources of chelated metals. So, before committing to a fertilizer, refer to the guaranteed analysis to quality assure the ingredients going into your garden.  

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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What’s the Difference Between Our Base, Additive and Maintenance Products?

Whatever you grow, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the ideal nutrient system to support your crop. However, selecting a fertilizer can often be a difficult task. So, to help educate and encourage our clients, we’ve organized our catalogue of products into three sections: base nutrients, additives, and maintenance products. To learn more about the products offered at GreenPlanet Nutrients, read the following passages below. 

The Difference Between Base, Additive, and Maintenance Products 

Base Nutrients

A base nutrient, or a base nutrient system, can be described as a crop’s main source of plant food. Furthermore, an adequate base nutrient program will likely contain a well-rounded list of macro and micro-elements, be highly concentrated, and provide your plants with essential minerals throughout periods of growth and bloom.

Additive Nutrients

An additive nutrient can be described as any plant food product that seeks to enhance natural patterns of development. And unlike base nutrients, which are designed to maintain healthy patterns of growth and bloom, additive nutrients aim to promote specific actions, whether it be the development of large, dense flowers, trichome production, root growth, or rapid cell expansion.

Maintenance Products

Unlike base and additive supplements, some of our products specialize in maintaining or preserving a particular area in a plant’s life cycle. So, while not directly considered a fertilizer, maintenance products help support specific actions such as pH stability, plant health, and general performance in the garden

More About Base Nutrients

Why are base nutrients important? Like us, plants are only able to digest certain elements throughout their lifecycle. So, a base nutrient could be described as any liquid or powdered plant food which contains most of, or all of the essential elements for plant health and stability. Although base nutrient systems vary in many ways, most notable in price, brand, and in the number of “parts”, an adequate base nutrient program will contain a well-rounded list of macro and micro-elements, be highly concentrated, and provide your plants with essential minerals throughout periods of growth and bloom.

More About Additive Nutrients 

What are additives? Unlike base nutrients, additive nutrients are supplements that aim to promote specific actions and outcomes. There are a wide variety of additive nutrients available on the market. For example, GreenPlanet Nutrients manufacturers 16 nutrient additives, ranging from beneficial bacteria inoculants, bloom boosters, and carbohydrates supplements. While all these supplements have different desired actions and outcomes, they all aim to enhance the natural growth patterns of plants.

Base nutrient supplements can be seen as your plant’s source of “meat and potatoes”, essential elements necessary for growing healthy crops. Additives on the other hand, if we stick with food analogies, can be described as a plant’s “dessert”, something that is not essential for survival, but if supplemented appropriately, can ultimately enhance the potential for size, flavour and appeal during flower.

Enhance Your Crop with Flowering Supplements and Additives

More About Maintenance Products

Why use maintenance products? Maintenance products are specialized products that assist in the general upkeep of the garden. Designed to be used periodically with base nutrients and additives, maintenance products support specific actions that aim to promote and optimize crop production and plant health. Some maintenance products such as pH Up and pH Down are essential for maintaining stabilized plant growth and are recommended for buffering nutrients during every irrigation cycle. 

Combining Base Nutrients and Additives in a Feed Program 

GreenPlanet offers growers four distinct liquid feed programs: the 1-Part Medi-One, the 2-Part Dual Fuel, 3-Part GP3, and the 4-Part Hydro Fuel. But what feed program is right for you? Read the passages below for more information on the feed programs available at GreenPlanet. Or, click the button below for advice on choosing your ideal nutrient system. 

1-Part Medi One Feed Program 

A complete, organic feed program formulated for the medical grower. 

Medi One is a balanced blend of organic ingredients that encourages vigorous growth in the vegetative stage and resinous aromatic flora production in the flowering stage. Medi One is also OMRI listed. This means that the ingredients that go into producing Medi One are backed against industry standards for organic fertilizer production. 

Feed Program Contains: 

2-Part Dual Fuel Feed Program  

A simple and highly concentrated feed program designed to save growers time and money.

Whether you’re a novice cultivator with your first grow tent or a master grower producing on a commercial scale, our 2-part Dual Fuel Feed Program gives you the ability to fine-tune your garden to ensure you get bigger and better yields! Simple and easy to use so you can scale up or down without the headache.

Feed Program Contains:

3-Part GP3 Feed Program

Formulated for the veteran grower, GP3 offers increased flexibility, control, and reliability. 

GP3 is the OG of 3-part feed programs. It’s the 3 part base nutrient system that has been tried and tested by seasoned growers throughout the years. If you want a product backed by veteran growers, then this is the feed program for you.

Feed Program Contains: 

4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program

The classic and easy-to-use formula for the traditional hydroponic garden.

The 4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program gives growers extreme control over both vegetative and flowering growth with two specific formulas for each stage of production. The base nutrient component comes in four parts: A&B Grow and A&B Bloom

Feed Program Contains: 

Your green-thumbed adventure starts here! To access the programs and products in this blog, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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What are trichomes and why do they result in high-quality cannabis?

When it comes to cannabis, experienced growers prefer quality over quantity. The truth is, growers today want to produce bigger trichomes, not flowers. Unlike its flowers, cannabis trichomes hold a wealth of psychoactive, medicinal, and therapeutic properties. The market’s changed; instead of gigantic, dull cannabis buds, growers are far more interested in producing tight flowers, covered with a dense layer of crystalized trichomes.

What are Trichomes?

Trichomes are small, dome-like glands that coat the leaves and buds of mature cannabis plants. They are resinous and oily, but also have a glass, or crystal-like appearance. Trichomes also have functional properties. For example, experts argue that trichomes can mitigate leaf and flower temperature, leading to a stronger plant that’s more resistant to bouts of extreme heat or cold (Wagner, 1991).

Also, the hair-like structure of resin glands leads professionals to believe that trichomes can act as a pest-deterrent and defence mechanism via their oily nature and the production of chemical compounds (Wagner, 1991). Fruits, vegetables, and flowers produce trichomes across the plant kingdom. However, specific glands in cannabis have been praised for their unique psychoactive and medicinal compounds.

Trichomes are small, dome-like glands found on the buds of mature cannabis plants.

Important Compounds Found in Cannabis Trichomes

THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. While perhaps the most prevalent, THC is one of at least 113 cannabinoids found in marijuana plant tissue. THC forms heavily in the lipid glands of exposed plant matter like flowers and leaves as an evolutionary defence response to stress, pests, and environmental conditions. 

Molecular chemical structure of cannabinoid THC Tetrahydrocannabinol
THC is one of at least 113 cannabinoids found in marijuana plant tissue.

When taken, tetrahydrocannabinol is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, attaching itself to the naturally-occurring endocannabinoid receptors located in the brain. This attachment can distort and affect perception, pleasure, thinking, coordination, and movement. In short, THC is the compound in cannabis responsible for making the user feel “high”. However, there are also medicinal and therapeutic uses for THC. For instance, THC has had success in treating pain, discomfort, and bladder overactivity for people with multiple sclerosis. 

CBD

Cannabidiol or CBD is another immensely important compound found abundantly in cannabis. Also a primary active ingredient in hemp, CBD has been championed widely for its therapeutic and medicinal benefits. And unlike THC, CBD does not cause a “high” when ingested. Potential medicinal benefits are as follows: insomnia relief, acute and chronic pain assistance, inflammation ease, depression support, and arthritis aid (Perez, 2021, para. 1). 

Molecular chemical structure of cannabinoid CBD Cannabidiol
CBD/Cannabidiol is the most well-known and abundant non-psychoactive cannabinoid found within the cannabis plant. CBD has also been championed widely for its therapeutic and medicinal benefits.

CBD can be ingested in many forms, including oils, herbs, patches, capsules, lotions, sprays, and even bath bombs. Since CBD is a therapeutic compound without any psychoactive effects, individuals using or prescribed CBD may experience a more relaxed and regulated mood, reduced muscle pain, and low fatigue. 

THCA

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), the precursor of THC, is also found in the resinous glands of cannabis plants. Unlike the smaller molecular compound THC, THCA’s chemical composition is too large to fit into the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain, making it a non-intoxicating active ingredient. In order for a cannabinoid compound to become intoxicating (like THC), the molecule must be small enough to attach itself to a type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1). The shape and size of the THCA molecule, however, is too large to make this CB1 to cannabinoid connection. 

Molecular chemical structure of cannabinoid THCA Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid
THCA’s chemical composition is a non-intoxicating active ingredient.

Remember, THCA is the precursor to the intoxicating compound THC. The chemical conversion comes from a simple process called decarboxylation, or the rapid application of heat and light. Heat removes the carboxylic acid group from THCA, altering the THC chemical structure. This makes it the perfect shape to fit into the endocannabinoid system. But like other compounds found in trichomes, THCA alone has amazing health benefits. For example, recent studies have shown that THCA can promote dietary and immune system recovery and function (Ruhaak, 2011). 

CBN

Cannabinol (CBN) comes from the breakdown of THC in mature cannabis plants. CBN isn’t as psychoactive as THC, but it can still produce a calming, therapeutic effect after consumption. Since CBN doesn’t necessarily produce a “high”, it’s often overlooked as an unimportant cannabinoid. However, there are several benefits of CBN being examined in recent studies. For instance, studies have shown that concentrations of CBN have antibacterial, neuroprotectant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Cannabinol also has a minor sedative effect, leading researchers to believe that future studies will yield further medicinal evidence for the use of CBN.

Molecular chemical structure of cannabinoid Cannabinol CBN
CBN, or Cannabinol, has antibacterial, neuroprotectant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

What’s most interesting about CBN is its interaction with other cannabinoids. Dr. Ethan Russo, a neurologist responsible for popularizing the “entourage effect”, says CBN itself isn’t a sedative (Rahn, 2020, para. 5). But when combined with other cannabinoids like THC and CBD, cannabinol can work synergistically to influence certain therapeutic effects.

Grow Trichomes – Not Flowers

Cannabis buds are valued on much more than size – strain, terpene concentration and cannabinoid content all play an essential role in determining the value of raw flower. But how do we grow trichomes? 

GreenPlanet product aficionado, Sonny, is here to give you all the info on Rezin.

Enhance Trichomes with Rezin

Bring fire to your crop with Rezin, our trichome, flavour, and aroma enhancer. Formulated with trace amounts of molybdenum and vitamin B1, Rezin can be used in both the flowering and flushing periods of growth to boost essential oil, trichome, and resin content.

Rezin contains no plant growth regulators (PGRs), artificial colouring, or dyes. And, since it contains only a trace amount of a single micronutrient, Rezin will not impact the EC/PPM of your nutrient solution. Rezin will help promote aromas and flavours to bring out the best qualities of your plants in both the late-stage and flushing period.

Rezin is the answer to ensure your flowers are covered in beautiful, frosty trichomes.

Remember, to enhance the smell and taste of cannabis, grow trichomes, not flowers! For more information on the products or information mentioned in this article, contact your GreenPlanet representative directly, or your local garden supply store. 

Works Cited 

  • Rahn, B. (2020). The entourage effect: How cannabis compounds may be working together. Retrieved December 1st, 2021 from Leafly
  • Ruhaak, L. (2011). Evaluation of the cyclooxygenase inhibiting effects of six major cannabinoids isolated from cannabis sativa. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin. Retrieved December 1st, 2021 from J-Stage
  • Perez, L. (2021). 9 science-backed benefits of CDB oil. Retrieved December 1st, 2021 from Forbes Health 
  • Wagner, G.J. (1991) Secreting glandular trichomes: More than just hairs. Plant Physiology. Retrieved December 1st, 2021 from National Library of Medicine

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Understanding the Feed Program: Hydro Fuel

GreenPlanet Nutrients makes four different and distinct feed programs. Made for the medicinal gardener, the 1-Part Medi-One feed program is an organic system that offers plants a wide variety of bio-available elements. The 2-Part Dual Fuel program is GreenPlanet’s simplest and most concentrated formula. The 3-Part program, GP3, was designed to be intricate and balanced, made for the seasoned grower with an established routine. The 4-Part Hydro Fuel system is GreenPlanet’s final feeding program. Coming in four parts, the base nutrient component of Hydro Fuel is made for the easy-going traditional grower – someone who wants the complexity of a multipart feed program, but with none of the effort. If you’re thinking about purchasing GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel feed program, read the following passages for more information. 

What is a Feed Program?

A feed program is a schedule of plant nutrition that can be mapped in terms of fertilizer dosage, ratio, supplementation, and use over time. Usually containing several bottles, a complete feeding program should contain supplements including a base nutrient fertilizer, a vitamin supplement, a bloom booster, a source of carbohydrates, and a trichome enhancer. By combining these inputs into a feeding program, growers can expect to produce the most quality-driven harvest possible. To browse a complete list of feed programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, click here. Or, read the blog below for advice on choosing a GreenPlanet feed program.

GreenPlanet’s 4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program

GreenPlanet’s 4-Part Hydro Fuel base nutrient system gives growers extreme control over both vegetative and flowering growth with two specific and balanced formulas for each stage of production. The base nutrient component comes in four parts, A&B Grow and A&B Bloom, two formulas for each stage of growth. But don’t let the excess of nutrients fool you into thinking Hydro Fuel is complicated – GreenPlanet’s 4-Part feed program is one of the simplest, yet most effective nutrient systems on the market. Here’s more information on each part of the Hydro Fuel feed program: 

Base Nutrients

Additive Nutrients

Click to see the products that make up the 4 Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program

Using the Feed Program

Like a recipe, the Hydro Fuel feeding program has the best results when the formula is followed. A feed program is a schedule of plant nutrition that can be mapped in terms of fertilizer dosage, ratio, supplementation. So, throughout the weeks of vegetative and flowering growth, the Hydro Fuel feeding program will guide the grower through different stages of a plant’s life. It will also offer general feeding ratios, doses, and helpfully supplementation tips. All the measurements of plant food on GreenPlanet’s feeding programs are described in milliliters of fertilizers per liter of water.

Features and Considerations

Here are some features to consider about the Hydro Fuel feed program. First, GreenPlanet only recommends certain products and supplements for specific stages of plant growth. For example, the feeding program is split into two stages: vegetative and flowering growth. In these different stages, only certain supplements are recommended for use. For instance, you’ll notice that products that increase flower size, like Massive Bloom Formulation, are only introduced in the second week of the flowering stage.

Products that increase flower size, like Massive Bloom Formulation, are only introduced in the second week of flower

Also, Hydro Fuel is fed in equal ratios throughout vegetative and flowering stages and growth. So, no matter the stage of growth, you can expect to add equal amounts of Hydro Fuel A&B. This makes mixing Hydro Fuel a breeze. Also, mixing a 1:1 ratio fertilizer means that growers need only buy equal amounts of Hydro Fuel A&B. When used correctly, both parts of Hydro Fuel will run out at the same time. This feature of the 4-Part feed program saves growers time, money, and waste. 

Tips on Using Hydro Fuel

Another aspect of the Hydro Fuel feed program to examine is the rise and gradual plateau of the recommended Parts Per Million (PPM) of your nutrient solution. PPM is a unit of measurement which describes the concentration and strength of a nutrient solution.

PPM is a unit of measurement which describes the concentration of a solution.

While following the Hydro Fuel feeding program, you’ll notice that the PPM of you’re nutrient solution will gradually increase as you move into the flowering stage, finally plateauing in weeks 2 – 6, followed by a gradual decrease in strength as you move towards the final weeks of flush. These general measurements are based on the assumption that as time progresses, your plants will become larger, and therefore be able to digest a more concentrated nutrient solution. However, these nutrient levels generally plateau and decrease as plants ripen and move towards the flushing stage. For a more in-depth understanding of PPM and plant nutrition, refer to the blog titled: Understanding Plant Nutrition And Factors That Influence Availability.

Want to learn more about Hydro Fuel? Contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. Or, read the blog titled: Everything You Need to Know About GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel.

Works Cited

  • Russo, E. (2019). The case for the entourage effect and conventional breeding of clinical cannabis: No “strain,” no gain. Frontiers in Plant Science. Retrieved, December 10th, 2020 from US National Library of Medicine.
  • Stirk, W. A., & Van Staden, J. (2014). Chapter five – Plant growth regulators in seaweeds: Occurrence, regulation and functions. Advances in Botanical Research, 125–159. Retrieved, December 10th, 2020 from ScienceDirect

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Everything You Need to Know About GreenPlanet Nutrients Hydro Fuel

GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel was made for the easy-going, traditional gardener – someone who wants the control and intricacy of a multipart base nutrient, but with none of the extra effort. Choosing a reliable nutrient system can be a challenging business. First, growers need to decide if they want to grow organic or mineral-based crops. Secondly, the fertilizer in question must be compatible with the gardener’s growing system. And last, before committing to a feeding system, growers must be comfortable with the program itself. To help eliminate the guesswork when selecting fertilizer for the garden, here’s everything you need to know about GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel. If you’re thinking about purchasing GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel feed program, read the following passages for more information. 

GreenPlanet’s 4-Part Hydro Fuel Base Nutrient

GreenPlanet’s 4-Part Hydro Fuel base nutrient system gives growers extreme control over both vegetative and flowering growth with two specific and balanced formulas for each stage of production. The base nutrient component comes in four parts, A&B Grow and A&B Bloom, two formulas for each stage of growth. But don’t let the excess of nutrients fool you into thinking Hydro Fuel is complicated – GreenPlanet’s 4-Part feed program is one of the simplest, yet most effective nutrient systems on the market. Here’s more information on each part of the Hydro Fuel base nutrient system.

Hydro Fuel Grow A&B

Hydro Fuel Grow A&B are the growing components of GreenPlanet’s 4-Part base nutrient system. Designed to be used together in equal ratios throughout the vegetative stage, Hydro Fuel Grow A&B provides your crop with a diverse range of micro, macro, and secondary nutrients. Hydro Fuel Grow A is the nitrogen and micronutrient heavy part of the vegetative A&B program. It gives plants clean access to micronutrients like boron, cobalt, molybdenum, zinc, and chelated sources of iron and manganese. The B component of Hydro Fuel Grow compliments this formula perfectly by being packed full of phosphorus and potassium, two nutrients that encourage rapid root growth and cellular expansion. 

Hydro Fuel Grow A&B is Designed to be used together in equal ratios throughout the vegetative stage

Hydro Fuel Bloom A&B

Hydro Fuel Bloom A&B are the blooming components of GreenPlanet’s 4-Part base nutrient system. Formulated to be used together in a 1:1 ratio, Hydro Fuel Bloom A&B provides your plants with elements that encourage the expression and expansion of dense flowers. For instance, Hydro Fuel Bloom A is made with balanced levels of nitrogen and micronutrients to ensure your plants stay healthy and free of common nutrient deficiencies during the flowering stage. Hydro Fuel Bloom B, however, is loaded with aggressive amounts of phosphorus and potassium. Hydro Fuel Bloom A&B guarantees the maximal expression of flowers during the blooming period by providing gardeners with access to an easy-to-use and balanced fertilizer. 

Why Should You Use GreenPlanet’s 4-Part? 

Stage Specific Nutrients 

GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel is unique because it offers growers balanced levels of elements in stage-specific ratios. Hydro Fuel is split into two distinct feeding systems: Hydro Fuel Grow A&B and Hydro Fuel Bloom A&B. Each formula is specifically designed for both the vegetative and flowering stages of growth. This means that every time you feed your plants with Hydro Fuel, you’re providing them with exactly what they need for that period of growth. If you’re looking for a nutrient system that’s simple and stage-specific, there’s no better choice than GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel. 

Easy-to-Use Ratios

Every part of GreenPlanet’s Hydro Fuel is mixed in simple 1:1 ratios. So, no matter the stage of growth, both parts of Hydro Fuel are added into the reservoir in equal amounts. Unlike other multi-step feed programs which are fed to plants in varying ratios over time, Hydro Fuel is made simple by being supplemented in completely equal parts. This aspect of GreenPlanet’s 4-Part makes it one of the simplest and most efficient base nutrient programs on the market. So, if you’re the type of grower who’s interested in an intricate, balanced, yet easy-to-use base nutrient system, Hydro Fuel might be the perfect choice for your garden.

Multimedia Feed Program 

Both Hydro Fuel Grow and Bloom A&B can be supplied to plants in a variety of media; this includes soil, peat moss, coco coir, rockwool, hydro stone, and true water-based systems. Made from extremely soluble sources of micro and macronutrients, Hydro Fuel can be used in any of the media variations listed above with little to no salt or residue build-up. This is because Hydro Fuel is formulated with only the highest quality ingredients – no carbonates, bi-carbonates, or fillers are used in the manufacturing of GreenPlanet nutrients. Whether you’re a beginner testing out a new system, or a seasoned grower with an established routine, GreenPlanet’s 4-Part makes growing in any medium easy and stress-free. 

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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3 Simple Supplements to Enhance the Smell and Taste of Cannabis

There is no greater shame than harvesting a beautiful crop, only to have it dried, stale and tasteless, soft, squishy, and smelling of hay. The look of growers during this revelation is daunting. Some may be indifferent about the result, saying, “oh, well, it’s not that bad”, while others’ disappointment can only be measured by the critical scowl following the ol’ squeeze and sniff technique. While environmental issues are largely responsible for the texture and rigidity of cannabis flowers, there are several supplements that growers can rely on to provide them with sugar-coated buds, teaming with overpowering and pungent aromas. Below, we’ll discuss common terpene and flavonoid compounds, followed by three simple ways to enhance the smell and taste of your crop.

Why Do Cannabis Plants Smell?

Cannabis plants encompass some of the world’s most interesting and complex aromas. But makes cannabis plants smell? Well, here’s the answer: cannabis flowers’ unique flavours and aromas are governed by a combination of special hydrocarbons called terpenes. Existing in over 30,000 forms, terpenes are responsible for determining the unique aroma and taste of a variety of flora including, lavender, rosemary, basil, and of course, cannabis. 

A wide spectrum of terpenes can be found throughout the industry’s most popular genetics. However, much like naturally occurring fruit and flowers in our environment, terpenes can do more than just produce pleasant smells – they can also perpetuate feelings of well-being, promote energy, or induce relaxation and meditation.

Examples of some Cannabis Terpenes profiles

Learn more about these Common Terpene Profiles in Cannabis Flower

Common Terpene Profiles in Cannabis

Terpinolene

Sweet and sharp with piney floral notes.

Caryophyllene

Warm aromas like pepper, cloves and woody spices.

Pinene 

Fresh aromatic scents like pine needles and dill.

Ocimene

icy, sugar-like smells found in basil and mint.

Myrcene  

Musky notes of peat, leather, oak and earth. 

Enhance the Smell and Taste of Cannabis with 3 Simple Supplements 

The majority of cannabis terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids are held within the trichomes heads of marijuana flowers. So, if you’re looking to enhance the smell and taste of your cannabis plants, start by increasing the size and density of your trichomes. Below are three supplements from GreenPlanet Nutrients that can be included alongside any base nutrient program to enhance the smell and taste of cannabis.

Rezin

Bring fire to your crop with GreenPlanet’s trichome, flavour, and aroma enhancer. Formulated with trace amounts of molybdenum and vitamin B1, Rezin can be used in both the flowering and flushing periods of growth to boost essential oil, trichome, and resin content. Rezin contains no plant growth regulators (PGR’s), artificial colouring, or dyes. And, since it contains only a trace amount of a single micronutrient, Rezin will not impact the EC/PPM of your nutrient solution. Rezin will help promote aromas and flavours to bring out the best qualities of your plants in both the late-stage and flushing period.

Root Builder 

Root Builder is GreenPlanet’s microbial supplement that promotes root growth, nutrient uptake, and enhances trichome size and density. Formulated with two sources of bacteria, Bacillus Licheniformis and Bacillus Subtilis, Root Builder can quickly increase microbial activity in the root zone, allowing for increased uptake, yield, and trichome formulation. Experts agree that adding a source of microbes to the root zone can be extremely beneficial. For example, in an article published in Industrial Crops and Products (2018), the authors argue that supplying industrial cannabis with a source of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can drastically increase the size and availability of trichomes (Pagnani et al, p. 75). 

Liquid Weight

Plants use an amazing amount of energy converting fertilizer into energy. They also rely on microbes, or beneficial bacteria to speed up the processes of elemental conversion. These bacteria feed on an array of sugary carbohydrates to maintain colonies of microbes in all stages of plant growth, but especially during the later stages of flower. So, for a consistent supply of carbohydrates, try GreenPlanet’s Liquid Weight. It’s designed to increase and maintain microbial colonies, which aids in crop progression, flower formation, trichome expression, and nutrient and fluid uptake. If you’re looking to get the most out of your garden, Liquid Weight is the perfect supplement. 

Remember, to enhance the smell and taste of cannabis, grow trichomes, not flowers! For more information on the products or information mentioned in this article, contact your GreenPlanet representative directly, or your local garden supply store. 

Work Cited

  • Pagnani, G. (2018). Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in Cannabis sativa ‘Finola’ cultivation: An alternative fertilization strategy to improve plant growth and quality characteristics. Industrial Crops and Products. Retrieved November 9th, 2021 from ResearchGate.net

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Fix 5 Common Nutrient Deficiencies with GreenPlanet Nutrients Pro Cal

N-P-K is an acronym for the most readily available macronutrients found in plant food. These important elements, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), are the building blocks of plant nutrition and are an essential part of a plant’s diet throughout the periods of vegetative and flowering growth. However, there are another 7 elements called micronutrients that are also essential for plant health. Without access to essential elements, crops can exhibit deficiencies such as yellowing, purple, or bronze discoloration, spotting, interveinal chlorosis and slow, or stunted growth. Lucky for us, GreenPlanet’s Pro Cal is loaded with several sources of primary, secondary, and micronutrients to ensure your plants stay healthy and happy in all stages of growth. If you’re interested in what Pro Cal can do for your garden, read the following passages to learn how to fix 5 common nutrient deficiencies with GreenPlanet’s premier micronutrient supplement.  

What is Pro Cal?

Pro Cal is GreenPlanet’s supplemental source of essential elements that plants require at all stages of growth. Pro Cal’s formula provides readily available calcium and magnesium, as well as iron, nitrogen, boron, and zinc. This formula ensures your plants do not come up short when they are ready for rapid growth. Plants undergo a large amount of stress in their goal to build cell walls, produce chlorophyll, conduct photosynthesis, and perform other key plant functions. Pro Cal helps plants with this workload by providing access to a variety of clean, quality-assured elements.

Fix 5 Common Nutrient Deficiencies with Pro Cal

1. Nitrogen Deficiency

Access to a rich and abundant source of nitrogen is extremely important. Symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in crops are as follows: light green growth, yellowing, general discoloration, and brown spotting. Nitrogen is needed by plants to promote rapid growth, especially for fruit and flower development. Also, nitrogen increases leaf size and hastens photosynthesis during the vegetative stage. If plants do not receive adequate nitrogen, crops can become spindly and wilted, new leaves will become smaller and the plant will slowly suffer by withering away into nothing.

Nitrogen deficiency in crops are as follows: light green growth, yellowing, general discoloration.

Pro Cal can help correct nitrogen deficiencies in plants. With an N-P-K of 2-0-0, it’s the perfect supplement to add to your existing feeding program. If you start to notice any one of the common symptoms above, just add Pro Cal at the recommended rate (1.25ml/L) until you notice healthy, vigorously growing new shoots and leaves. 

2. Calcium Deficiency

Here are some of the symptoms of a plant with a calcium deficiency: stunted foliage, yellowing edges, and leaf tips that resemble tip burn. In the most serious cases, a calcium deficiency will result in browning leaf tips that slope downwards and become crunchy to the touch. Calcium is a major contributor to the plant’s cell wall and provides structural support to cell walls and leaf development. Also, calcium is needed by plants to produce new growing points and root tips. Without an adequate supply of calcium, plants will quickly suffer by developing one of the common symptoms above.  

Calcium deficiency: stunted foliage, yellowing edges, and leaf tips that resemble tip burn.

Luckily, calcium is a major component in GreenPlanet’s Pro Cal. If you happen to notice the development of a calcium deficiency in your plants, incorporate Pro Cal into your feeding program until your crops are healthy and free of any calcium deficiency.

3. Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium deficiency symptoms: older leaves with interveinal chlorosis, and yellow and brown spotting. In severe cases, plant growth rate drops, leaf size is reduced, and the lower leaves are shed. Magnesium is a structural component of the chlorophyll molecule. Plants need this important element to produce carbohydrates, sugars, and fats and in the regulation of nutrient absorption. 

Magnesium deficiency leaves have interveinal chlorosis and yellow and brown spotting.

Pro Cal is formulated with a major dose of magnesium. So, if your plants are displaying symptoms of a magnesium deficiency, add Pro Cal to your preexisting nutrient solution at a rate of 1.25ml/L until new, deficiency-free growth appears.

4. Iron Deficiency

A lack of iron can present growers with a variety of problems. Symptoms of an iron deficiency include light green to yellow interveinal chlorosis on newly emerging leaves, dying roots, and in severe cases, reduced leaf size, and dead spots on old growth. Iron is needed by plants for the synthesis of chloroplast proteins and various enzymes. Like a magnesium deficiency, a lack of iron will cause a severe interveinal chlorophyll discoloration – leaves will likely be a light green colour with dark green or black veinal lines. However, an iron deficiency will cause this phenomenon in new growth, not old.

Iron deficiency includes light green to yellow interveinal chlorosis on newly emerging leaves.

Three types of chelated iron are incorporated into GreenPlanet’s Pro Cal: Iron EDTA, Iron EDDHA, and Iron DTPA. These multiple sources ensure that iron can be absorbed at different and varying pH ranges. For example, iron EDTA is held strongly in a solution at a pH of 6.0, while iron DTPA is held in pH ranges above 8.0. So, if you happen to notice even a minor iron deficiency, consider supplying your plants with Pro Cal. This inclusion will provide your crop with not one, but multiple sources of chelated iron.

5. Zinc Deficiency

Zinc is an extremely underrated micronutrient. Plants with a lack of zinc will exhibit symptoms such as light green, pale leaves with aggressive dark veins; and in severe cases, tip burn and bronze or red spotting starting from the tip down will appear. Zinc is important because it unlocks and facilitates the uptake of natural plant growth regulators. Without access to hormones like auxins and gibberellins, plants will quickly exhibit the symptoms above. Also, natural growth patterns will slow, internodal spacing will drastically decrease, and new leaves and shoots will shrink. 

Plants with a lack of zinc will exhibit symptoms such as light green, pale leaves with aggressive dark veins; and in severe cases, tip burn.

To avoid the issues above, chelated zinc EDTA has been included in GreenPlanet’s Pro Cal. It’s extremely important to provide your plant’s access to natural plant hormones during all stages of growth. So, by including Pro Cal in your regular feeding routine, you can guarantee the avoidance of zinc-related deficiencies. 

GreenPlanet Nutrients makes a wide variety of feed programs, additives, and maintenance supplements. To access the products available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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Why Expert Growers Love GreenPlanet’s 3-Part Program

If you’re a seasoned grower, you’ll love GreenPlanet’s GP3 3-Part program. Here’s why: GreenPlanet’s GP3 offers expert growers access to one of the cleanest and most quality-driven 3-Part formulations on the market. GP3 is clean because it’s produced without the inclusion of carbonates, bi-carbonates, fillers, artificial colours, or preservatives. Also, the quality design of GreenPlanet’s 3-Part is unmatched by competitors. 3-Part nutrient programs are classic and traditional nutrient enrichment programs. GP3, however, is the only 3-Part program on the market that provides plants with stable elements, chelated micronutrients, and multiple sources of iron, all within a clean, low salt formulation. If you want to learn more about why expert growers love GreenPlanet’s 3-Part program, read the following passages below. 

What is GreenPlanet’s GP3 3-Part Feed Program?

GreenPlanet’s 3-Part GP3 feed program consists of a three-part base nutrient system and several additives that enhance both vegetative and blooming growth. The base nutrient component consists of three parts: Grow, Micro and Bloom. Made for the expert grower, GP3 offers plants everything they need in 3 bottles. From essential micronutrients like copper, boron, and zinc, to balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, GP3 is fed to plants in varying ratios throughout stages of propagation, growth, and bloom, making it the perfect stack of fertilizer for growers who want nothing but the best.

GP3 feed program consists of a three-part base nutrient system and four additive nutrients.

Why Expert Growers Love GreenPlanet’s 3-Part Program 

A Clean Formula: No Carbonates, Bi-Carbonates, or Fillers 

GP3 contains no carbonates, bi-carbonates, unnatural derivatives, or fillers, and each product in the GP3 program goes through a rigorous filtration process during production to ensure an extremely low salt index. Carbonates and bi-carbonates form when a positively charged metal ion comes in contact with the oxygen atoms of a carbonate ion. These compounds are often insoluble in water and exhibit some level of basicity or acidity in water (Zumdahl, 2008, p. 17). Experts argue that carbonates and bi-carbonates can be damaging to crops by allowing micronutrients to become less available to plants at undesirable pH ranges, therefore inducing micronutrient chlorosis (Morgan, 2008, p. 60). Furthermore, fertilizers high in carbonates and bi-carbonates contain a high salt index and can consequently lead to the buildup of sodium in drip emitters, irrigation lines, and/or reservoirs (Morgan, 2008, p. 43). 

GreenPlanet ensures the cleanliness and solubility of their 3-Part program by selecting only the purest raw ingredients that undergo no damaging alteration during the manufacturing process. And, to guarantee that GP3 remains as soluble as possible, each product goes through a multi-step filtration process before it is bottled. In short, expert growers love GreenPlanet’s 3-Part because they trust the consistency and quality of the product. 

Includes Multiple Sources of Iron 

While micronutrients only account for 1% of a plant’s dry matter content, they are essential for the vegetative and blooming periods of growth. Iron (Fe), in particular, is an extremely important micronutrient that flowering plants rely on to transport nutrients, respire and photosynthesize water and light energy. Reduced or insufficient iron in the root zone can lead to deformed growth, interveinal chlorosis, poor yields, weakness, and low iron-induced anemia (Schmidt et al, 2020, para. 2). 

GreenPlanet makes sure your plants acquire a wide variety of elemental iron to avoid the exaggeration of the issues above. For example, three unique sources of chelated iron (Iron EDTA, Iron EDDHA, Iron DTPA) are included in the GP3 Micro formulation. Iron EDTA and EDDHA are both synthetic sources of iron, however, they contain different functions when fed to plants in a solution. Iron EDTA, for instance, is made of strongly chelated ions that hold iron elements together for uptake in pH ranges from approximately 6.0 – 6.5; past this, however, iron EDTA becomes almost impossible for plants to absorb (Krauskopf, 2007, para. 4). Then, until a pH of around 8.0, EDDHA becomes the plant’s available source of iron. Finally, at any pH level above 8.0, the last source of iron (DTPA) becomes readily available to plants (Krauskopf, 2007, para. 4). 

GreenPlanet makes sure your plants avoid plant issues by providing three unique sources of chelated iron (Iron EDTA, Iron EDDHA, Iron DTPA) which allow constant nutrient uptake at a varied pH level.

It’s recommended that growers always maintain an acceptable pH range (somewhere between 5.8 – 6.5, depending on the system). However, in the unlikely event that your nutrient solution does rise beyond a suitable range, it’s important to note that safeguards against inevitable micronutrient deficiencies have been put in place. GreenPlanet includes these three sources of iron in their 3-Part feed program to guarantee suitable access to this important micronutrient, no matter the extreme alkalinity of a nutrient solution. 

Intricate and Balanced Nutrition

GP3 is supplied to plants in varying ratios throughout stages of propagation, growth, and bloom. For example, GP3 Micro and Grow are fed more heavily during the vegetative stage, while GP3 Bloom is the primary component of the nutrient system during flower. These varying ratios make up a scheduled program of plant nutrition in each stage of growth, allowing growers to get the most out of their nutrients with little waste and no issues with common deficiencies. 

This point is not to say that 1 or 2-Part feeding programs aren’t as effective as more intricate nutrient systems. However, by feeding your plants exactly what they need in specific stages of growth, you can guarantee that your crop will have maximal output at harvest time. So, while the GreenPlanet 3-Part program may be slightly more complex, expert growers would agree that the intricacy and balanced nutrition provided by GP3 massively outways the extra effort. 

WHAT IT IS

HOW IT WORKS

HOW TO USE IT

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

WHAT IT IS

HOW IT WORKS

HOW TO USE IT

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

WHAT IT IS

HOW IT WORKS

HOW TO USE IT

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

Works Cited

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Why It’s Important to Choose a Fertilizer with a Low Salt Index

All fertilizers are essentially comprised of salts. These salts are usually formulated into fertilizers as mineralized elements. In total, there are 16 essential elements that have been recognized for increasing plant growth. These elements are divided into two categories: micro and macronutrients. Most high-quality base nutrient fertilizers will have a balanced and intricate blend of both micro and macronutrients. However, this balance is not the only inclusion that should be considered before purchasing fertilizer for your garden; the raw ingredients that go into each formulation should also be analyzed in terms of quality. For example, the salt index (SI), or the relative tendency of fertilizer to raise the salt content of the soil is an immensely important control. Fertilizers with a high salt index can damage seedlings and weak plants by reversing natural osmotic pressure and oversaturating crops with unsoluble element forms. If you want to learn about the importance of choosing a fertilizer with a low salt index, read the following passages for more information.

What is a Salt Index Rating?

All granular and liquid fertilizers have a Salt Index Rating (SI), which indicates the relative strength of the salt in the fertilizer. Salt content is one of the most critical characteristics of fertilizers. The SI of fertilizer is a measure of the salt concentration that fertilizer induces in the soil relative to Sodium Nitrate. Sodium Nitrate was used as a standard for measuring the Salt Index of fertilizers because it is 100 percent water-soluble and it was a commonly used nitrogen fertilizer when the SI concept was first proposed in 1943. The SI rating does not indicate the concentration of elements within a fertilizer; however, it does predict the average rate at which fertilizer will increase the salinity of a medium.  

Why It’s Important to Choose a Fertilizer with a Low Salt Index 

Injury or damage to crops can occur when fertilizers with a high salt index are placed in close proximity to seedlings or young plants. When a nutrient solution is applied to a medium, it raises the salt concentration of the root zone. However, if the salt concentration of the medium becomes too aggressive, it can rapidly create an internal imbalance of salt which can lead to tip burn and nutrient toxicity. When a high concentration of salts is added to the surrounding soil/medium, it can often create an imbalance in osmotic pressure, meaning the salt content of the plant is less than the salt content of the medium. A reversal in internal osmotic pressure can result in the plant being unable to uptake water and nutrients, therefore leading to the eventual loss of the plant’s natural metabolic processes. 

Swipe across to see how salt content can affect the nutrient & water uptake

Clean, Highly Soluble Mineral-Based Fertilizer’s Available at GreenPlanet Nutrients

Trust a brand that has the cleanest, most soluble nutrients for your garden.

To avoid the issues above, growers should select only the cleanest, most soluble nutrients for their garden. At GreenPlanet, we pride ourselves on providing growers with a range of high-quality fertilizers. If you’re interested in supplying your plants with an aggressive, yet clean source of nutrients, browse the selected feed programs below. 

2-Part Dual Fuel Feed Program 

Whether you’re a novice cultivator with your first grow tent or a master grower producing on a commercial scale, our 2-Part Dual Fuel feed program gives you the ability to fine-tune your garden to ensure you get bigger and better yields. The base nutrient component of Dual Fuel is divided into two parts: Dual Fuel 1 & Dual Fuel 2. Dual Fuel 1 is the nitrogen (N) and micronutrient heavy component of GreenPlanet’s 2-Part system, while Dual Fuel 2 compliments the feeding program by being packed full of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Sold alongside additives like Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin, the Dual Fuel feed program is by far the most concentrated and clean nutrient formula available on the market. 

Click to read the 2 Part Feed Program

3-Part GP3 Feed Program

GreenPlanet’s 3-Part GP3 feed program consists of a three-part base nutrient system and several additives that enhance both vegetative and blooming growth. The base nutrient component consists of three parts: Grow, Micro and Bloom. Made for the expert grower, GP3 offers plants everything they need in 3 bottles. From essential micronutrients like copper, boron, and zinc, to balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, GP3 is fed to plants in varying ratios throughout stages of propagation, growth, and bloom, making it the perfect stack of fertilizer for growers who want nothing but the best. Combined with premier additives like Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin, GP3 offers growers a traditional nutrient program with the added benefit of having an extremely low salt index. 

Click to read the 3 Part Feed Program

4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program

The 4-Part Hydro Fuel feed program gives growers extreme control over both vegetative and flowering growth with two specific and balanced formulas for each stage of production. The base nutrient component comes in four parts, A&B Grow and A&B Bloom, two formulas for each stage of growth. But don’t let the excess of nutrients fool you into thinking Hydro Fuel is complicated – GreenPlanet’s 4-Part feed program is one of the simplest, yet most effective nutrient systems on the market. The 4-Part Hydro Fuel feed program is sold with products including Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin. Combined with these additives, the Hydro Fuel feed program ensures steady growth rates with easy-to-manage applications. 

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

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How to Choose a GreenPlanet Liquid Feed Program

GreenPlanet offers growers four distinct liquid feed programs: the 1-Part Medi-One, the 2-Part Dual Fuel, the 3-Part GP3, and the 4-Part Hydro Fuel. But what feed program is right for you? Answering this question depends on a few simple yet essential considerations, including gardening practices, previous experience, and cultivation system of choice. For instance, if you’re an organic farmer, the only suitable GreenPlanet feeding system would be the 1-Part Medi-One program. This nutrient program offers growers readily available organic elements for indoor and outdoor operations. While cultivating practices are perhaps the most important determinant when choosing a nutrient program, many factors go into selecting the ideal feeding system. If you want to learn what GreenPlanet feed program would suit your garden, read the following passages for more information. 

Click here to browse a complete list of GPN liquid feed programs

What is a Feed Program?

A feed program is a schedule of plant nutrition that can be mapped in terms of fertilizer dosage, ratio, supplementation, and use over time. Usually containing several bottles, a complete feeding program should contain supplements, including a base nutrient fertilizer, a vitamin supplement, a bloom booster, a source of carbohydrates, and a trichome enhancer. By combining the inputs in a feeding program, prompted by other factors that produce a confident yield, growers can expect their garden to make the most quality-driven harvest possible.

Using the above 1 Part Medi One Feed program as an example to indicate what a complete feeding program should contain:

3 Questions to Consider Before Choosing a Liquid Feed Program 

1. Do You Want to Grow Organic Crops?

This question refers to the example above – if you’re interested in growing organic crops, consider only selecting fertilizers made with organic elements. High-quality fertilizers are typically divided into two categories: synthetic and organic. Synthetic or mineral-based fertilizers are formulated from direct sources of bioavailable elements. However, organic fertilizers are formulated from naturally sourced compounds that become available to the plant once broken down in the root zone. In short, synthetic fertilizers feed the plant, while organic fertilizers feed the soil. This consideration will drastically impact the fertilizer available to growers, as only select feed programs, like GreenPlanet’s 1-Part Medi-One, are specifically formulated with organic elements.

Tip: Look for the OMRI logo on organic fertilizers. The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) reviews the manufacturing processes of all organic fertilizers against industry standards of production and ensures that all organic products meet necessary quality levels. 

2. What System or Medium Are You Using?

This question refers to your method of growing. Some fertilizers aren’t suitable for use in specific systems. So, base your fertilizer of choice on your method of growing. Organic fertilizers, for example, can be made from extremely thick, viscous materials like fish hydrolysate, while synthetic fertilizers are usually formulated with highly concentrated amounts of soluble minerals. In short, some fertilizers are designed for use in specific systems. If you’re unsure whether or not a specific fertilizer would be suitable for use in your garden, ask a GreenPlanet sales representative or refer to the “medium approved” icons available on our fertilizer containers and feed charts. 

On the back of each GreenPlanet Nutrient product, you’ll be able to find the For Use Icons for approved medium use

For Use In Icons (Medium Approved Icon List)

3. How Much Experience Do You Have?

There’s no shame in being a new grower. But if you’re new, you must question your experience with plant food. Some fertilizers are more complicated than others. Complex fertilizers, like our GP3 program, come in multiple “parts” and need to be buffered, balanced, and measured in varying ratios over time. Even for the most talented growers, these complex feeding programs can be complicated to manage. All parts of a base nutrient program are made up of similar elements. The only difference between them is the mixing method and ratios during irrigation. So, it’s a good idea to question your capabilities as a gardener and how hard you’re willing to work before selecting a fertilizer. 

Choose a GreenPlanet Liquid Feed Program

After considering the questions above, it’s time to determine which GreenPlanet Nutrients feed program is right for you. GreenPlanet offers growers six liquid feed programs:

Below, we’ll discuss the major differences between these nutrient systems and determine which program would work best for your garden. 

1-Part Medi-One Feed Program 

Simple and Organic – Perfect for Medical Gardeners

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, organic feed program, look no further. GreenPlanet’s Medi-One feed program is an OMRI-listed, one-part, organic base nutrient plus additives. The base nutrient component of the 1-Part program, Medi-One, is composed of multiple organic sources, including hydrolyzed, slow-steamed freshwater fish, sea kelp, and naturally sourced potassium sulphate. Medi-One also boasts an impressive yet balanced N-P-K ratio of 4-3-3; and, because of the slow steaming of inert ingredients during the manufacturing process, Medi-One is an overflowing reservoir of essential micronutrients like copper, boron, manganese, and zinc.

Other supplements like Ocean Magic, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin are included in the 1-Part Medi-One Feed Program. Ocean Magic is a vegetative additive and is a natural source of plant hormones that increase root development, vertical growth, and horizontal branching. Massive is our premier flowering additive, while Liquid Weight is a simple and clean source of soluble carbohydrates. The 1-Part program also includes Rezin, a trichome-enhancing product that can increase the expression of resinous trichome heads. 

2-Part Dual Fuel Feed Program 

Concentrated and Effective – Great For Small and Large Scale Operators Alike

 

Boasting an aggressive NPK ratio, high concentration rates, and a stable pH range, the Dual Fuel program is unmatched by competitors in terms of content, value, and reliability. GreenPlanet’s Dual Fuel Feed program is the perfect choice for growers who want to produce a clean harvest free of headaches, mishaps, and challenges. The base nutrient component of Dual Fuel is divided into two parts: Dual Fuel 1 & Dual Fuel 2. Dual Fuel 1 is the nitrogen (N) and micronutrient-heavy component of GreenPlanet’s 2-part system, while Dual Fuel 2 complements the feeding program by being packed full of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).

Along with Dual Fuel 1 & 2, GreenPlanet’s 2-Part program is sold alongside premier additives like Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin. Vitathrive is our plant vitamin supplement, designed to discourage stress and promote early root growth. Massive is our premier flowering additive, while Liquid Weight is a simple and clean source of soluble carbohydrates. The 2-Part Dual Fuel program includes Rezin, GreenPlanet’s aroma and flavour enhancer. 

3-Part GP3 Feed Program 

Intricate and Balanced – Made For the Expert Grower

GreenPlanet’s 3-Part GP3 feed program consists of a three-part base nutrient system and several additives that enhance vegetative and blooming growth. The base nutrient component consists of Grow, Micro and Bloom. Made for the expert grower, GP3 offers plants everything they need in 3 bottles. From essential micronutrients like copper, boron, and zinc to balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, GP3 is fed to plants in varying ratios throughout stages of propagation, growth, and bloom, making it the perfect stack of fertilizer for growers who want nothing but the best.

Along with GP3 Grow, Micro, and Bloom, GreenPlanet’s 3-Part program is sold alongside premier additives like Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin. Vitathrive is our plant vitamin supplement, designed to discourage stress and promote early root growth. Massive is our premier flowering additive, while Liquid Weight is a simple and clean source of soluble carbohydrates. The 3-Part GP3 program includes Rezin, GreenPlanet’s aroma and flavour enhancer. 

4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program 

Classic and Easy to Use – Designed for the Easy-Going, Traditional Garden 

The 4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program gives growers extreme control over both vegetative and flowering growth with two specific and balanced formulas for each production stage. The base nutrient component comes in four parts, A&B Grow and A&B Bloom, two formulas for each growth stage. But don’t let the excess of nutrients fool you into thinking Hydro Fuel is complicated – GreenPlanet’s 4-Part feed program is one of the simplest yet most effective nutrient systems on the market. For example, each Hydro Fuel pair is mixed in equal ratios. This makes the 4-Part program extremely easy to master and maintain. 

The 4-Part Hydro Fuel Feed Program is sold with products including Vitathrive, Massive, Liquid Weight, and Rezin. Vitathrive is our plant vitamin supplement, designed to discourage stress and promote early root growth. Massive is our premier flowering additive, while Liquid Weight is a simple and clean source of soluble carbohydrates. The 4-Part Hydro Fuel program includes Rezin, GreenPlanet’s aroma and flavour enhancer. 

AutoPot Watering Systems Feed Program 

Stable and Extremely Water-Soluble – Made for the AutoPot Watering System

Easy-to-use grow systems demand an easy-to-use feed program to match. That’s why we worked closely with AutoPot to formulate 2 new feed programs based on our original Dual Fuel and GP3 Liquid Feed Programs. To grow successfully with AutoPot, you need a nutrient program that is highly water-soluble and has clean ingredients. Without it, you run the risk of clogged AquaValves and feed lines from excess build-up. Nobody wants to perform emergency grow system maintenance in the middle of their cycle due to their choice of nutrients. The 2 Part AutoPot Dual Fuel Feed Program and 3 Part AutoPot GP3 Feed Program give AutoPot growers peace of mind with clean, simple, and high-quality sources of plant nutrition.

Swipe the image to see either the 2-Part or 3-Part Autpot Feed Programs.

The Dual Fuel and GP3 AutoPot feed programs are sold with their respective base nutrient and additives, including PK Spike, Vitathrive, and Rezin. Made to be highly stable and water-soluble, PK Spike is the designated bloom booster in the AutoPot feed program. Vitathrive is our plant vitamin supplement, while Rezin is formulated to increase trichome and essential oil production.

Jason Ralph-Smith, Managing Director at AutoPot Global, put Dual Fuel to the test at the AutoPot Facility.

Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

Check out our Resource Center for more product information

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5 Reasons to Switch to GreenPlanet’s 3-Part Base Nutrient System

3-Part nutrient programs are among the most popular fertilizers in the industry. Made for the expert grower, 3-Part systems offer plants everything they need in 3 bottles. From essential micronutrients like copper, boron, and zinc, to balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, 3-Part nutrients are fed to plants in varying ratios throughout stages of propagation, growth, and bloom, making them the perfect stack of fertilizer for growers who want nothing but the best. 

As you probably know, almost every popular nutrient brand makes a 3-Part feeding system. But what makes one brand of fertilizer different from the rest? At GreenPlanet Nutrients, we pride ourselves on providing expert growers with the best tools for the job – that’s why we’ve designed our 3-Part nutrient program to be the cleanest and most competitive formula on the market. If you’re looking for a new fertilizer, read the following article for 5 reasons to switch to GreenPlanet’s 3-Part base nutrient system. 

5 Reasons to Switch to GreenPlanet’s 3-Part (GP3)

  • No Synthetic Dyes or Colors
  • Highly Controllable
  • Seamlessly Intergratable
  • Low Salt Index
  • 100% Chelated Micronutrients

1.) No Synthetic Dyes or Colors

GP3 contains only what your plants need to thrive. All the colours in each formula of our 3-Part program are naturally derived from the ingredients during manufacturing. This means that the different colours in Micro, Bloom, and Grow are completely stable and contain no synthetic dyes or colouring additives. Food-grade dyes won’t necessarily harm your plants, but they also don’t provide any source of nutrition, and that’s why we’ve chosen to leave them out of our GP3 program.

GP3 Micro, Bloom, and Grow contain no synthetic dyes or colouring additives.

2.) Highly Controllable

Using a 3-Part nutrient system offers growers more control and flexibility in the garden. Compared to 1 or 2-Part base nutrients, 3-Part programs are fed to plants in varying amounts throughout different stages of growth. For example, GP3 Micro and Grow are fed more heavily during the vegetative stage, while GP3 Bloom is the primary component of the nutrient system during flower. These varying ratios make up a scheduled program of plant nutrition in each stage of growth, allowing growers to get the most out of their nutrients with little waste and no issues with common deficiencies. 

3.) Seamlessly Integratable 

GreenPlanet’s 3-Part nutrient system seamlessly integrates into any existing 3-Part program. So, if you just need Micro to fill a spot in your existing feed program – just buy Micro. No matter the brand, each part of GP3 will properly integrate into the program and provide the same essential elements and levels of nutrients. Even if you just need a small amount of GP3 to get you to harvest, you can be assured that the ingredients in GreenPlanet’s 3-Part will integrate seamlessly into any feed program on the market.

GreenPlanet’s 3-Part nutrient system seamlessly integrates into any existing 3-Part program

4.) Low Salt Index

GP3 contains no carbonates, bi-carbonates, unnaturally derivatives, or fillers. Even more interesting is that each product in the GP3 program goes through a rigorous filtration process during production to ensure an extremely low salt index. This makes GreenPlanet’s 3-Part nutrient system one of the cleanest and most soluble formulas on the market. The cleanliness of GP3 not only leads to more ease while using the product, but it also promotes a cleaner, less salt-ridden environment and root zone for your growing plants. 

GP3 promotes a cleaner, less salt-ridden environment

5.) 100% Chelated Micronutrients

All the micronutrients in the GP3 program are 100% chelated. Chelated elements act as catalysts for nutrient uptake by cloaking metals like copper and iron in charged ions to detract them from reacting negatively with water or other negatively charged ions. Chelated micronutrients are generally of higher quality, as chelated metals have an easier time passing through the cell walls of plants, therefore leading to the faster uptake of essential micronutrients.  

The 100% chelated minerals in GP3 allow for a faster and more aggressive uptake of essential nutrients by the plant.

More About the GP3 Feed Program Bundle 

Knowing what separates GP3 from the competition is just the beginning; to truly understand the quality and design of GreenPlanet’s 3-Part nutrient system, you have to try it yourself. Made for the expert grower, GP3 is the perfect nutrient program for cultivators looking to push quality genetics to new and exciting heights. 

More About the GP3 Feed Program Bundle 

Knowing what separates GP3 from the competition is just the beginning; to truly understand the quality and design of GreenPlanet’s 3-Part nutrient system, you have to try it yourself. Made for the expert grower, GP3 is the perfect nutrient program for cultivators looking to push quality genetics to new and exciting heights. 

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Whatever your style of garden, chances are, GreenPlanet Nutrients has the perfect base nutrient program. To access the programs available at GreenPlanet Nutrients, contact a member of the GreenPlanet sales team, or your local garden supply store for product information and purchasing inquiries. 

Check out our Resource Centre for more product information

Read More