MARIJUANA GROWERS HANDBOOK

 

 

Part I
General Infromation

Preface

In 1969, Richard Nixon initiated Operation Intercept, a pro-
gram designed to stem the flow of Mexican marijuana into this
country. The program forced Mexico to use paraquat on its mari-
juana fields. In similar actions, pressure was put on Thailand, Col-
ombia, and Jamaica to curtail imports to the U.S.
Domestic smokers became increasingly alarmed at the reports
of lung damage after smoking paraquat-sprayed marijuana. In fact,
at the time, Dr. Carlton Turner, currently President Reagan's Drug
Policy Advisor, developed a kit to determine whether the marijuana
a smoker had purchased was contaminated. In addition, infections
were reported from smoking imported marijuana which was con-
taminated by animal feces and mold.
In this climate of health fears and supply shortage, Ed Rosen-
thal and his colleague Mel Frank wrote Marijuana Grower's Guide,
which was the most monumentally successful book of its kind ever
published. Domestic cultivators took the technology found in Mari-
juana Grower's Guide and developed their own indoor and outdoor
plots, no longer willing to rely on foreign supply. The more the
government stepped up its eradication attempts aimed at imports,
the more mini-gardens and mini-farms began to develop in the U.S.
In simple-to-understand language, Marijuana Grower's Guide made
experts out of gardening hobbyists.
Marijuana cultivation technology has accelerated since Mari-
juana Grower's Guide was written. Advances in lighting
technology, hydroponics and propagation left a void of serious
literature on the subject. Marijuana Growers Handbook is a com-
pletely new book which covers all phases of cultivation, including
state-of-the-art techniques.
Most experts agree that U.S. growers are the finest in the
world. They can get a good yield from the smallest space and have
developed hybrids of incredible quality. This indicates that many
growers use sophisticated techniques. This book was written to help
these people with their gardens, as well as helping novices who are
growing for the first time.

The Wall Street Journal recently estimated that there are bet-
ween 20 and 30 million regular users of marijuana in this country.
Other sources put the figure at 50,000,000 users of marijuana in this
country. High Times calculates that 50% of the marijuana used in
this country is domestic. Marijuana will not go away.
Cowardly and reactionary politicians who have maintained
prohibition will soon see marijuana legalized. Realistic politicians
who see the damage that the marijuana laws have done to the socie-
ty will change the laws so that they can tax and regulate marijuana.
Only homegrowers will be free of the market and government
regulation. We are ready for legalization, too. We have the
technology for growing superior marijuana and the tools for doing
it.
Marijuana prohibition was initiated because of the people who
smoked it. The laws continue in effect today for those same
reasons. Politicians don't like people who think for themselves, are
independent, and who recognize bullshit. They would prefer for
each citizen to become a subject, a ward of the state, who is depen-
dent on government for making his/her life decisions. Marijuana
tends to let us develop different sets and set perceptions, to see the
world a little differently. To change not only what we think but how
we think. That's what scares the regulators.

Precaution

It is a felony to cultivate marijuana in 49 of the 50 states (it is
legal in Alaska). It is legal or tolerated in only a few countries:
Holland, India, and Nepal.
Growers use precaution when setting up their gardens. They
make sure that their activity arouses no suspicion and that the
garden and its contents cannot be seen by unintended observers.

 

Artificial lighting, usually the main source of light for indoor
gardeners, can draw quite a bit of electricity. Electrical systems
should be adequate to support the electrical draw. If a large amount
of electricity is used, the utility company may investigate the situa-
tion for shorts or other drains, including a surreptitious garden.
Growers are circumspect about discussing their gardens. The
smartest ones use only the "need to know theory" - that anyone
who doesn't need to know doesn't know. Envy, jealousy, and even
misplaced morality have made informers of ex-friends.

Chapter One
Marijuana: The Plant

Cannabis probably evolved in the Himalayan foothills, but its
origins are clouded by the plant's early symbiotic relationship with
humans. It has been grown for three products-the seeds, which are
used as a grainlike food and animal feed and for oil; its fiber, which
is used for cloth and rope; and its resin, which is used medically and
recreationally since it contains the group of psychoactive substances
collectively known as Tetra-hydrocannibinol, usually referred to as
THC. Plants grown for seed or fiber are usually referred to as hemp
and contain small amounts of THC. Plants grown for THC and for
the resin are referred to as marijuana.
Use of cannabis and its products spread quickly throughout
the world. Marijuana is now cultivated in climates ranging from the
Arctic to the equator. Cannabis has been evolving for hundreds of
thousands of generations on its own and through informal breeding
programs by farmers. A diverse group of varieties has evolved or
been developed as a result of breeders attempts to create a plant
that is efficient at producing the desired product, which flourishes
under particular environmental conditions.
Cannabis easily escapes from cultivation and goes "wild". For
instance, in the American midwest, stands of hemp "weed" remain
from the 1940's plantings. These plants adapt on a population level
to the particular environmental conditions that the plants face; the
stand's genetic pool, and thus the plants' characteristics, evolve
over a number of generations.
Varieties differ in growth characteristics such as height, width,
branching traits, leaf size, leaf shape, flowering time, yield, poten-
cy, taste, type of high, and aroma. For the most part, potency is a
factor of genetics. Some plants have the genetic potential of pro-
ducing high grade marijuana and others do not. The goal of the
cultivator is. to allow the high THC plants to reach their full
potential.
Marijuana is a fast growing annual plant, although some
varieties in some warm areas over winter. It does best in a well-
drained medium, high in fertility. It requires long periods of
unobstructed bright light daily. Marijuana is usually dioecious;
plants are either male or female, although some varieties are
monoecious - they have male and female flowers on the same
plant.
Marijuana's annual cycle begins with germination in the early
spring. The plant grows vigorously for several months. The plant
begins to flower in the late summer or early fall and sets seed by late
fall. The seeds drop as the plant dies as a result of changes in the
weather.
Indoors, the grower has complete control of the environment.
The cultivator determines when the plants are to be started, when
they will flower, whether they are to produce seed and even if they
are to bear a second harvest.

Chapter Two

Choosing A Variety

Gardeners can grow a garden with only one or two varieties or
a potpourri. Each has its advantages. Commercial growers usually
prefer homogeneous gardens because the plants taste the same and
mature at the same time. These growers usually choose fast matur-
ing plants so that there is a quick turnaround. Commercial growers
often use clones or cuttings from one plant so that the garden is
genetically identical; the clones have exactly the same growth habits
and potency.
Homegrowers are usually more concerned with quality than
with fast maturity. Most often, they grow mixed groups of plants so
they have a selection of potency, quality of the high, and taste.
Heterogeneous gardens take longer to mature and have a lower
yield than homogeneous gardens. They take more care too, because
the plants grow at different rates, have different shapes and require
varying amounts of space. The plants require individual care.
Marijuana grown in the United States is usually one of two
main types: indica or sativa. Indica plants originated in the Hindu-
Kush valleys in central Asia, which is located between the 25-35
latitudes. The weather there is changeable. One year there may be
drought, the next it might be cloudy, wet, rainy or sunny. For the
population to survive, the plant group needs to have individuals
which survive and thrive under different conditions. Thus, in any
season, no matter what the weather, some plants will do well and
some will do poorly.
Indica was probably developed by hash users for resin content,
not for flower smoking. The resin was removed from the plant. An
indication of indica's development is the seeds, which remain
enclosed and stick to the resin. Since they are very hard to discon-
nect from the plant, they require human help. Wild plants readily
drop seeds once they mature.
Plants from the same line from equatorial areas are usually
fairly uniform. These include Colombians and central Africans.
Plants from higher latitudes of the same line sometimes have very
different characteristics. These include Southern Africans, Nor-
thern Mexicans, and indicas. The plants look different from each

 

other and have different maturities and potency. The ratio of THC
(the ingredient which is psychoactive) to CBD (its precursor, which
often leaves the smoker feeling disoriented, sleepy, drugged or con-
fused) also varies.
High latitude sativas have the same general characteristics as
other sativas: conical form, long bladed leaves, wide spacing be-
tween branches, and vigorous growth.
Indicas do have some broad general characteristics: they tend
to mature early, have compact short branches and wide, short
leaves which are dark green, sometimes tinged purple.
Indica buds are usually tight, heavy, wide and thick rather than
long. They smell "stinky", "skunky", or "pungent" and their
smoke is thick - a small toke can induce coughing. The best in-
dicas have a relaxing "social high" which allow one to sense and
feel the environment but do not lead to thinking about or analyzing
the experience.
Cannabis sativa plants are found throughout the world. Potent
varieties such as Colombian, Panamanian, Mexican, Nigerian,
Congolese, Indian and Thai are found in equatorial zones. These
plants require a long time to mature and ordinarily grow in areas
where they have a long season. They are usually very potent, con-
taining large quantities of THC and virtually no CBD. They have
long, medium4hick buds when they are grown in full equatorial
sun, but under artificial light or even under the temperate sun, the
buds tend to run (not fill out completely). The buds usually smell
sweet or tangy and the smoke is smooth, sometimes deceptively so.
The THC to CBD ratio of sativa plants gets lower as the plants
are found further from the equator. Jamaican and Central Mexican
varieties are found at the 1 5-2Oth latitudes. At the 3Oth latitude,
varieties such as Southern African and Northern Mexican are
variable and may contain equal amounts of THC and CBD, giving
CHART 2-1: The Varieties at a Glance
Variety Maturity Outdoor Size Branching Pattern Bud Type Aroma High Buds Color Comments
(in feet) Density of Bud (flowers)
Height Width Indoors
Afghani mid- 4-8 3-6 squat, compact, thick, heavy heavy, rounded, dark The standard corn-
& Kush Sept. short sidebranches, dense, pungent, tiring, dense green, mercial plant. Quality
-Oct. thick webbed leaves short, skunky- stupefying purple varies within
rounded fruity population.
Colombian late 7-12 4-7 conical, X-mas med. thick, sweet, spacy, Tends to run green, Rarely seen commer
Nov.-Jan. tree, long branches 4-8" long, fruity, thought- long flower some red cially. Needs lots of
at bottom, tapering light to light provoking, stem, sparse light and warmth to
at the top, thin long medium strong flowered develop thick colas.
leaves density _________ ____________________
Indian mid Nov.- 8-12 4-6 long internodes, big big, thick, med strong, large fluffy light Will run without
(Central) mid Dec. leaves, strong firm 7-12" long; fruity- active, buds green, intense light.
branches, elongated light-wt. skunky social red Susceptible to
conical shape flowers on pistils fusarium wilt.
tiny cola
branches.
Jamaican late 6-10 3-6 conical, but squat- long thin light, medium, thin, long runs light Adaptable, good

 

Oct.-Dec. ter than Col. Med. colas sweet, active, under low light green weather resistance.
leaves, medium w/buds musky social Susceptible to
branching 11/2 "-3" fusarium wilt.
long
Mexican Oct.-early 8-15 41/2-9 elongated long, thin light, weak, long thin light Vigorous plants, fast
(Northern) Nov. X-mas tree, long 12"-24" sweet slightly mature well green, starters. Some cold-
branches, medium- colas perfume, heavy, red resistance.
sized leaves spicy sleepy
Mexican Nov.-Dec. 8-14 4 1/2-9 shorter than long thin sweet comes on long, thin, may very' light Hybridizes well with
(Southern) northern 12 "-18" quick; run a little colored, Afghani.
colas intense, red hairs
soaring
Moroccan Aug.- 4-9 21/2-5 some sidebranching, thick, round med. weak, thin buds dark Good breeding
Sept. but most effort in ed, 3"-6" sweet to buzzy mature easily green material, lots of
tops long skunky variation.
Nigerian mid 6-12 4-7 X-mas tree with med. thick, dry- very thick, med. medium Vigorous warm
Nov.-mid strong side dense; runs sweet, strong, length, may green weather plant. Needs
Dec. branches; long, in low light perfume bell- run; needs light to mature.
highly serrated musk ringing, lots of light
fingers paralyzing
Thai Dec.-Jan. 5-9 4-8 asymmetrical, long dense, medium, strong fluffy, medium Many hermaphodites
and con- branches seek open under high dry- druggy, mature Se- green make growing hard.
tinuing space light runs sweet, has energ quentially Buds ripen but plant
otherwise spicy over months sends out new
flowers.
Southern Aug.- 5-9 4-6 elongated conical med. thick, heavy uplifting, thin buds light Very variable. Good
African Oct. lower branches may be sweet to social mature easily green breeding material.
angle up sharply; somewhat spicy
thin-bladed leaves loose &
often heavily leafy
serrated

All of the descriptions are tentative guidelines. They are affected by cultivation technique, microenvironmental conditions, variations in climate, nutrients
available, latitude and other factors. Often, several distinctive varieties can be found in the same areas. The most common varieties are described.
the smoker a buzzy, confusing high. These plants are used mostly
for hybridizing. Plants found above the 3oth latitude usually have
low levels of THC, with high levels of CBD and are considered
hemp.
If indica and sativa varieties are considered opposite ends of a
spectrum, most plants fall in between the spectrum. Because of
marijuana and hemp's long symbiotic relationship with humans,
seeds are constantly procured or traded so that virtually all popula-
tions have been mixed with foreign plants at one time or another.
Even in traditional marijuana-growing countries, the mari-
juana is often the result of several crossed lines. Jamaican ganja,
for example, is probably the result of crosses between hemp, which
the English cultivated for rope, and Indian ganja, which arrived
with the Indian immigrants who came to the country. The term for
marijuana in Jamaica is ganja, the same as in India. The traditional
Jamaican term for the best weed is Kali, named for the Indian killer
goddess.

 

Chapter Three

Growth and Flowering

The cannabis plant regulates its growth and flowering stages by
measuring changes in the number of hours of uninterrupted
darkness to determine when to flower. The plant produces a hor-
mone (phytochrome) beginning at germination. When this chemical
builds up to a critical level, the plant changes its mode from
vegetative growth to flowering. This chemical is destroyed in the
presence of even a few moments of light. During the late spring and
early summer there are many more hours of light than darkness and
the hormone does not build up to a critical level. However, as the
days grow shorter and there are longer periods of uninterrupted
darkness, the hormone builds to a critical level.
Flowering occurs at different times with different varieties as a
result of the adaption of the varieties to the environment. Varieties
from the 3oth latitude grow in an area with a temperate climate and
fairly early fall. These plants usually trigger in July or August and
are ready to harvest in September or October. Southern African
varieties often flower with as little as 8 or 9 hours of darkness/15 to
16 hours of light. Other 3oth latitude varieties including most in-
dicas flower when the darkness cycle lasts a minimum of 9 to 10
hours. Jamaican and some Southeast Asian varieties will trigger at
11 hours of darkness and ripen during September or October.
Equatorial varieties trigger at 12 hours or more of darkness.
This means that they will not start flowering before late September
or early October and will not mature until late November or early
December.
Of course, indoors the plants' growth stage can be regulated
with the flick of a switch. Nevertheless, the plants respond to the ar-
tificial light cycle in the same way that they do to the natural
seasonal cycles.
The potency of the plant is related to its maturity rather than
Chronological age. Genetically identical 3 month and 6 month-old
plants which have mature flowers have the same potency. Starting
from seed, a six month old plant flowers slightly faster and fills out
more than a 3 month old plant.
Chapter Four

Choosing a Space

Almost any area can be converted to a growing space. Attics,
basements, spare rooms, alcoves and even shelves can be used.
Metal shacks, garages and greenhouses are ideal areas. All spaces
must be located in an area inaccessible to visitors and invisible from
the street.
The ideal area is at least 6 feet high, with a minimum of 50
square feet, an area about 7 by 7 feet. (Square footage is computed
by multiplying length times width.) A single 1,000 watt metal halide
or sodium vapor lamp, the most efficient means of illuminating a

 

garden, covers an area this size.
Gardeners who have smaller spaces, at least one foot wide and
several feet long, can use fluorescent tubes, 400 watt metal halides,
or sodium vapor lamps.
Gardeners who do not have a space even this large to spare can
use smaller areas (See the chapter "Novel Gardens").
Usually, large gardens are more efficient than small ones.
The space does not require windows or outside ventilation, but
it is easier to set up a space if it has one or the other.
Larger growing areas need adequate ventilation so that heat,
oxygen, and moisture levels can be controlled. Greenhouses usually
have vents and fans built in. Provisions for ventilation must be
made for lamp-lit enclosed areas. Heat and moisture buildup can be
extraordinary. During the winter in most areas, the heat is easily
dissipated; however, the heat buildup is harder to deal with in hot
weather. Adequate ventilation and air coolers are the answer.

Chapter Five

Preparing the Space

The space is the future home and environment of the plants. It
should be cleaned of any residue or debris which might house in-
sects, parasites or diseases. If it has been contaminated with plant
pests it can be sprayed or wiped down with a 5 % bleach solution
which kills most organisms. The room must be well-ventilated when
this operation is going on. The room will be subject to high humidi-
ty so any materials such as clothing which might be damaged by
moisture are removed.
Since the plants will be watered, and water may be spilled, the
floors and any other areas that may be water damaged should be
covered with linoleum or plastic. High grade 6 or 8 mil polyethylene
drop cloths or vinyl tarps protect a floor well. The plastic should be
sealed with tape so that no water seeps to the floor.
The amount of light delivered to the plant rises dramatically
when the space is enclosed by reflective material. Some good reflec-
tive materials are flat white paint, aluminum (the dull side so that
the light is diffused), white cardboard, plywood painted white,
white polyethylene, silvered mylar, gift wrap, white cloth, or
silvered plastic such as Astrolon. Materials can be taped or tack-
ed onto the walls, or hung as curtains. All areas of the space should
be covered with reflective material. The walls, ceiling and floors are
all capable of reflecting light and should be covered with reflective
material such as aluminum foil. It is easiest to run the material ver
tically rather than horizontally.
Experienced growers find it convenient to use the wide, heavy
duty aluminum foil or insulating foil (sold in wide rolls) in areas
which will not be disturbed and plastic or cloth curtains where the
material will be moved.
Windows can be covered with opaque material if a bright light
emanating from the window would draw suspicion. If the window
does not draw suspicion and allows bright light into the room, it
should be covered with a translucent material such as rice paper,
lace curtains, or aquarium crystal paint.
Garages, metal buildings, or attics can be converted to
lighthouses by replacing the roof with fiberglass greenhouse
material such as Filon~. These translucent panels permit almost all
the light to pass through but diffuse it so that there is no visible im-
age passing out while there is an even distribution of light coming
in. A space with a translucent roof needs no artificial lighting in the
summer and only supplemental lighting during the other seasons.
Overhead light entering from a skylight or large window is very
helpful. Light is utilized best if it is diffused.
Concrete and other cold floors should be covered with in-
sulating material such as foam carpet lining, styrofoam sheeting,
wood planks or wooden palettes so that the plant containers and the
roots are kept from getting cold.

Chapter Six

Plant Size and Spacing

- Manjuana varieties differ not Oflly in their growth rate, but
also in their potential size. The grower also plays a role in determin-
log the size of the plants because the plants can be induced to flower
at any age or size just by regulating the number of hours of uninter-
rupted darkness that the plants receive.
Growers have different ideas about how much space each plant
needs. The closer the plants are spaced, the less room the individual
plant has to grow. Some growers use only a few plants in a space,
and they grow the plants in large containers. Other growers prefer
to fill the space with smaller plants. Either method works, but a
gar den with smaller plants which fills the space more completely
probably yields more in less time. The total vegetative growth in a
Worn containing many small sized plants is greater than a room
co ntaining only a few plants. Since each plant is smaller, it needs
less time to grow to its desired size. Remember that the gardener is
in terested in a crop of beautiful buds, not beautiful plants.
The amount of space a plant requires depends on the height the
plants are to grow. A plant growing 10 feet high is going to be wider
than a 4 foot plant. The width of the plant also depends on cultiva-
don practices. Plants which are pruned grow wider than unpruned
plants. The different growth characteristics of the plants also affect
die space required by each plant. In 1-or 2-light gardens, where the
plants are to grow no higher than 6 feet, plants are given between 1
and 9 square feet of space. In a high greenhouse lit by natural light,
Where the plants grow 10-12 feet high, the plants may be given as
m uch as 80 to 100 square feet.

 

PART II.

Getting Started

Chapter Seven

Planting Mixes

One of the first books written on indoor growing suggested
that the entire floor of a grow room be filled with soil. This method
is effective but unfeasible for most cultivators. Still, the growers
have a wide choice of growing mediums and techniques; they may
choose between growing in soil or using a hydroponic method.
Most growers prefer to cultivate their plants in containers filled
with soil, commercial mixes, or their own recipe of soil, fertilizers,
and soil conditioners. These mixes vary quite a bit in their content,
nutrient values, texture, pH, and water-holding capacity.
Potting soil is composed of topsoil, which is a natural outdoor
composite high in nutrients. It is the top layer of soil, containing
large amounts of organic material such as humus and compost as
well as minerals and clays. Topsoil is usually lightened up so that it
does not pack. This is done using sand, vermiculite, perlite, peat

 

moss and/or gravel.
Potting soil tends to be heavy, smell earthy and have a rich
dark color. It can supply most of the nutrients that a plant needs for
the first couple of months.
Commercial potting mixes are composites manufactured from
ingredients such as bark or wood fiber, composts, or soil condi-
tioners such as vermiculite, perlite and peat moss. They are design-
ed to support growth of houseplants by holding adequate amounts
of water and nutrients and releasing them slowly. Potting mixes
tend to be low in nutrients and often require fertilization from the
outset. Many of them may be considered hydroponic mixes because
the nutrients are supplied by the gardener in a water solution on a
regular basis.
Texture of the potting mix is the most important consideration
for containerized plants. The mixture should drain well and allow
air to enter empty spaces so that the roots can breathe oxygen.
Mixes which are too fine may become soggy or stick together,
Preventing the roots from obtaining the required oxygen. A soggy
Condition also promotes the growth of anaerobic bacteria which
release acids that eventually harm the roots.
A moist potting mix with good texture should form a clump if
it is squeezed in a fist; then with a slight poke the clod should break
up. If the clod stays together, soil conditioners are required to
loosen it up. Vermiculite, perlite or pea-sized styrofoam chips will
serve the purpose. Some growers prefer to make their own mixes.
These can be made from soil, soil conditioners and fertilizers.
Plants grown in soil do not grow as quickly as those in
hydroponic mixes. However many growers prefer soil for aesthetic
reasons. Good potting mixes can be made from topsoil fairly easily.
Usually it is easier to buy topsoil than to use unpasteurized top-
soil which contains weed seeds, insects and disease organisms. Out-
doors, these organisms are kept in check, for the most part, by the
forces of nature. Bringing them indoors, however, is like bringing
them into an incubator, where many of their natural enemies are
not around to take care of them. Soil can be sterilized using a 5%
bleach solution poured through the medium or by being steamed
for 20 minutes. Probably the easiest way to sterilize soil is to use a
microwave. It is heated until it is steaming - about 5 minutes for a
gallon or more.
Potting soils and potting mixes vary tremendously in composi-
tion, pH and fertility. Most mixes contain only small amounts of
soil. If a package is marked "potting soil", it is usually made most-
ly from topsoil.
If the soil clumps up it should be loosened using sand, perlite
or styrofoam. One part amendment is used to 2-3 parts soil. Ad-
ditives listed in Chart 7-2 may also be added. Here is a partial list of
soil conditioners:

 

 

Foam

 

 

Foam rubber can be used in place of styrofoam. Although it
holds water trapped between its open cells it also holds air. About
1.5 parts of foam rubber for every part of styrofoam is used. Pea-
size pieces or smaller should be used.
Gravel

Gravel is often used as a sole medium in hydroponic systems
because it is easy to clean, never wears out, does not "lock up"
nutrients, and is inexpensive. It is also a good mix ingredient
because it creates large spaces for airpockets and gives the mix
weight. Some gravel contains limestone (see "Sand"). This material
should not be used.

 

Lava

Lava is a preferred medium on its own or as a part of a mix. It
is porous and holds water both on its surface and in the irregular
spaces along its irregular shape. Lava is an ideal medium by itself
but is sometimes considered a little too dry. To give it more
moisture-holding ability, about one part of wet vermiculite is mixed
with 3 to 6 parts lava. The vermiculite will break up and coat the
lava, creating a medium with excellent water-holding abilities and
plenty of air spaces. If the mix is watered from the top, the ver-
miculite will wash down eventually, but if it is watered from the
bottom it will remain.
Perlite

Perlite is an expanded (puffed) volcanic glass. It is lightweight
with many peaks and valleys on its surface, where it traps particles
of water. However, it dQes not absorb water into its structure. It
does not break down easily and is hard to the touch. Perlite comes
in several grades with the coarser grade being better for larger con-
tainers. Perlite is very dusty when dry. To eliminate dust, the
material is watered to saturation with a watering can or hose before
it is removed from the bag. Use of masks and respirators is impor-
tant.

 

Rockwool

Rockwool is made from stone which has been heated then ex-
truded into thin strands which are something like glass wool. It ab-
sorbs water like a wick. It usually comes in blocks or rolls. It can be
used in all systems but is usually used in conjunction with drip emit-
ters. Growers report phenomenal growth rates using rockwool. It is
also very convenient to use. The blocks are placed in position or it is
rolled out. Then seeds or transplants are placed on the material.

 

 

 

Sand

Sand is a heavy material which is often added to a mixture to
increase its weight so that the plant is held more firmly. It promotes
drainage and keeps the mix from caking. Sand comes in several
grades too, but all of them seem to work well. The best sand to use
is composed of quartz. Sand is often composed of limestone; the
limestone/sand raises pH, causing micronutrients to precipitate,
making them unavailable to the plants. It is best not to use it.
Limestone-containing sand can be "cured" by soaking in a
solution of water and superphosphate fertilizer which binds with
the surface of the lime molecule in the sand, making the molecule
temporarily inert. One pound of superphosphate is used to S
gallons of water. It dissolves best in hot water. The sand should sit
in this for 6-12 hours and then be rinsed. Superphosphate can be
purchased at most nurseries.
Horticultural sand is composed of inert materials and needs no
curing. Sand must be made free of salt if it came from a salt-water
area.
Spbagnum Moss
Sphagnum or peat moss is gathered from bogs in the midwest.
It absorbs many times its own weight in water and acts as a buffer
for nutrients. Buffers absorb the nutrients and hold large amounts
in their chemical structure. The moss releases them gradually as
they are used by the plant. If too much nutrient is supplied, the
moss will act on it and hold it, preventing toxic buildups in the
water solution. Moss tends to be acidic so no more than 20% of the
planting mix should be composed of it.

 

Styrofoam Pellets

Styrofoam is a hydrophobic material (it repels water) and is an
excellent soil mix ingredient. It allows air spaces to form in the mix
and keeps the materials from clumping, since it does not bond with
other materials or with itself. One problem is that it is lighter than
water and tends to migrate to the top of the mix. Styrofoam is easily
used to adjust the water-holding capacity of a mix. Mixes which are
soggy or which hold too much water can be "dried" with the addi-
tion of styrofoam. Styrofoam balls or chips no larger than a pea
should be used in fine4extured mixtures. Larger styrofoam pieces
can be used in coarse mixes.

Vermiculite
Vermiculite is processed puffed mica. It is very lightweight but
holds large quantities of water in its structure. Vermiculite is
available in several size pieces. The large size seems to permit more
aeration. Vermiculite breaks down into smaller particles over a
period of time. Vermiculite is sold in several grades based on the
size of the particles. The fine grades are best suited to small con-
tainers. In large containers, fine particles tend to pack too tightly,

 

not leaving enough space for air. Coarser grades should be used in
larger containers. Vermiculite is dusty when dry, so it should be wet
down before it is used.
Mediums used in smaller containers should be able to absorb
more water than mediums in larger containers. For instance, seed-
lings started in 1 to 2 inch containers can be planted in plain ver-
miculite or soil. Containers up to about one gallon can be filled
with a vermiculite-perlite or soil-perlite mix. Containers larger than
that need a mix modified so that it does not hold as much water and
does not become soggy. The addition of sand, gravel, or styrofoam
accomplishes this very easily.
Here are lists of different mediums suitable for planting: Below
is a list of the moist mixtures, suitable for the wick system, the
reservoir system and drip emitters which are covered in Chapter 9.

 

CHART 7-1-A: MOIST PLANTING MIXES

 

1) 4 parts topsoil, 1 part vermiculite, 1 part perlite. Moist, con-
tains medium-high amounts of nutrients. Best for wick and hand-
watering.
2) 3 parts topsoil, 1 part peat moss, 1 part vermiculite, 1 part
perlite, 1 part styrofoam. Moist but airy. Medium nutrients. Best
for wick and hand-watering.
3)3 parts vermiculite, 3 parts perlite, 1 part sand, 2 parts pea-
sized gravel. Moist and airy but has some weight. Good for all
systems, drains well.
4) 5 parts vermiculite, S parts perlite. Standard mix, moist. Ex-
cellent for wick and drip emitter systems though it works well for all
systems.
5) 3 parts vermiculite, 1 part perlite, 1 part styrofoam. Medium
dry mix, excellent for all systems.
6) 2 parts vermiculite, 1 part perlite, 1 part styrofoam, 1 part
peat moss. Moist mix.
7) 2 parts vermiculite, 2 parts perlite, 3 parts styrofoam, 1 part
sphagnum moss, 1 part compost. Medium moisture, small amounts
of slow-releasing nutrients, good for all systems.
8) 2 parts topsoil, 2 parts compost, 1 part sand, 1 part perlite.
Medium-moist, high in slow-release of organic nutrients, good for
wick and drip systems, as well as hand watering.
9) 2 parts compost, 1 part perlite, 1 part sand, 1 part lava.
Drier mix, high in slow-release of nutrients, drains well, good for all
systems.
10)1 part topsoil, 1 part compost, 2 parts sand, 1 part lava.
Dry mix, high in nutrients, good for all systems.
11) 3 parts compost, 3 parts sand, 2 parts perlite, 1 part peat
moss, 2 parts vermiculite. Moist, mid-range nutrients, good for
wick systems.
12) 2 parts compost, 2 parts sand, 1 part styrofoam. Drier,
high nutrients, good for all systems.

 

13) 5 parts lava, 1 part vermiculite. Drier, airy, good for all
systems.
Here are some drier mediums suitable for flood systems as well as
drip emitters hydroponic systems (covered in Chapter 9).

 

 

CHART 7-1-B: FLOOD SYSTEM/DRIP EMITTER MIXES

l)Lava

2) Pea size gravel

3) Sand

4) Mixes of any or all of the above

Manure and other slow-releasing natural fertilizers are often
added to the planting mix. With these additives, the grower needs to
use fertilizers only supplementally. Some of the organic amend-
ments are listed in the following chart. Organic amendments can be
mixed but should not be used in amounts larger than those recom-
mended because too much nutrient can cause toxicity.
Some growers add time-release fertilizers to the mix. These are
formulated to release nutrients over a specified period of time,
usually 3, 4, 6 or 8 months. The actual rate of release is regulated in
part by temperature, and since house temperatures are usually
higher than outdoor soil temperatures, the fertilizers used indoors
release over a shorter period of time than is noted on the label.
Gardeners find that they must supplement the time-release fer-
tilizer formulas with soluble fertilizers during the growing season.
Growers can circumvent this problem by using a time-release fer-
tilizer suggested for a longer period of time than the plant cycle. For
instance, a 9 month time-release fertilizer can be used in a 6 month
garden. Remember that more fertilizer is releasing faster, so that a
larger amount of nutrients will be available than was intended.
These mixes are used sparingly.
About one tablespoon of dolomite limestone should be added
for each gallon of planting mix, or a half cup per cubic foot of mix.
This supplies the calcium along with magnesium, both of which the
plants require. If dolomite is unavailable, then hydrated lime or any
agricultural lime can be used.
CHART 7-2: ORGANIC AMENDMENTS
AMENDMENT N P K 1 Part in X Parts Mix
COW MANURE 1.5 .85 1.75 Excellent conditioner,
breaks down over the
growing season. 1 part in
10 parts mix.
CHICKEN MANURE 3 1.5 .85 Fast acting. 1 part in 20
parts mix.
BLOOD MEAL 15 1.3 .7 N quickly available. 1 part

 

in 100 parts mix.
DRIED BLOOD 13 3 0 Very soluble. 1 part in 100
parts mix.
WORM CASTINGS 3 1 .5 Releases N gradually. 1
part in 15 parts mix.
GUANO 2-8 2-5 .5-3 Varies a lot, moderately
soluble. For guano
containing 20/0 nitrogen, 1
part in 15 parts mix. For
8% nitrogen, 1 part in 40
parts mix.
COTTONSEED MEAL 6 2.5 1.5 Releases N gradually. 1
part in 30 parts mix.
GREENSAND 0 1.5 5 High in micronutrients.
Nutrients available over the
season. 1 part in 30 parts
mix.
FEATHERS 15 ? ? Breaks down slowly. 1 part
in 75 parts mix.
HAIR 17 ? ? Breaks down slowly. 1 part
in 75 parts mix.

N = Nitrogen e p = Phosphorous e K = Potassium

Chapter Eight

Hydroponics vs. Soil Gardening

Plants growing in the wild outdoors obtain their nutrients from
the breakdown of complex organic chemicals into simpler water-
soluble forms. The roots catch the chemicals using a combination
of electrical charges and chemical manipulation. The ecosystem is
generally self-supporting. For instance, in some tropical areas most
of the nutrients are actually held by living plants. As soon as the
vegetation dies, bacteria and other microlife feast and render the
nutrients water-soluble. They are absorbed into the soil and are
almost immediately taken up by higher living plants.
Farmers remove some of the nutrients from the soil when they
harvest their crops. In order to replace those nutrients they add fer-
tilizers and other soil additives.
Gardeners growing plants in containers have a closed ecology
system. Once the plants use the nutrients in the medium, their
growth and health is curtailed until more nutrients become available
to them. It is up to the grower to supply the nutrients required by
the plants. The addition of organic matter such as compost or
manure to the medium allows the plant to obtain nutrients for a
while without the use of water-soluble fertilizers. However, once
these nutrients are used up, growers usually add water-soluble
nutrients when they water. Without realizing it, they are gardening
hydroponically. Hydroponics is the art of growing plants, usually
without soil, using water-soluble fertilizers as the main or sole
source of nutrients. The plants are grown in a non-nutritive

 

medium such as gravel or sand or in lightweight materials such as
perlite, vermiculite or styrofoam.
The advantages of a hydroponic system over conventional hor-
ticultural methods are numerous: dry spots, root drowning and
soggy conditions do not occur. Nutrient and pH problems are large-
ly eliminated since the grower maintains tight control over their
concentration; there is little chance of "lockup" which occurs when
the nutrients are fixed in the soil and unavailable to the plant; plants
can be grown more conveniently in small containers; and owing to
the fact that there is no messing around with soil, the whole opera-
tion is easier, cleaner, and much less bothersome than when using
conventional growing techniques.

Chapter Nine

Hydroponic Systems

PASSIVE HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS

 

Most hydroponic systems fall into one of two broad categories:
passive or active. Passive systems such as reservoir or wick setups
depend on the molecular action inherent in the wick or medium to
make water available to the plant. Active systems which include the
flood, recirculating drip and aerated water systems, use a pump to
send nourishment to the plants.
Most commercially made "hobby" hydroponic systems
designed for general use are shallow and wide, so that an intensive
garden with a variety of plants can be grown. But most marijuana
growers prefer to grow each plant in an individual container.

 

 

The Wick System

The wick system is inexpensive, easy to set up and easy to
maintain. The principle behind this type of passive system is that a
length of 3/8 to 78 inch thick braided nylon rope, used as a wick, will
draw water up to the medium and keep it moist. The container,
which can be an ordinary nursery pot, holds a rooting medium and
has wicks running along the bottom, drooping through the holes at
the bottom, reaching down to the reservoir. Keeping the holes in the
container small makes it difficult for roots to penetrate to the reser-
voir. The amount of water delivered to the medium can be increas-
ed by increasing the number, length, or diameter of the wicks in
contact with the medium.
A 1 gallon container needs only a single wick, a three gallon
container should have two wicks, a five gallon container, three
'wicks. The wick system is self-regulating; the amount of water
delivered depends on the amount lost through evaporation or
transpiration.

 

Each medium has a maximum saturation level. Beyond that
point, an increase in the number of wicks will not increase the
moisture level. A 1-1-I combination of vermiculite, perlite, and
styrofoam is a convenient medium because the components are
lightweight and readily available. Some commercial units are sup-
plied with coarse vermiculite. To increase weight so that the plant
will not tip the container over when it gets large, some of the perlite
in the recipe can be replaced with sand. The bottom inch or two of
the container should be filled only with vermiculite, which is very
absorbent, so that the wicks have a good medium for moisture
transfer.
Wick systems are easy to construct. The wick should extend S
inches or more down from the container. Two bricks, blocks of
wood, or styrofoam are placed on the bottom of a deep tray (a
plastic tray or oil drip pan will do fine.) Then the container is placed
on the blocks so that the wicks are touching the bottom of the tray.
The tray is filled with a nutrient/water solution. Water is replaced
in the tray as it evaporates or is absorbed by the medium through
the wick.
A variation of this system can be constructed using an addi-
tional outer container rather than a tray. With this method less
water is lost due to evaporation.
To make sure that the containers fit together and come apart
easily, bricks or wood blocks are placed in the bottom of the outer
container. The container is filled with the nutrient/water solution
until the water comes to just below the bottom of the inner con-
tainer.
Automating this system is simple to do. Each of the trays or
bottom containers is connected by tubing to a bucket containing a
float value such as found in toilets. The valve is adjusted so that it
shuts off when the water reaches a height about 1/2 inch below the
bottom of the growing containers. The bucket with the float valve is
connected to a large reservoir such as a plastic garbage can or 55
gallon drum. Holes can be drilled in the containers to accomodate
the tubing required, or the tubes can be inserted from the top of the
containers or trays. The tubes should be secured or weighted down
so that they do not slip out and cause floods.
The automated wick system works as a siphon. To get it
started, the valve container is primed and raised above the level of
the individual trays. Water flows from the valve to the plant trays as
a result of gravity. Once the containers have filled and displaced air
from the tubes, the water is automatically siphoned and the valve
container can be lowered. Each container receives water as it needs
it.
A simpler system can be devised using a plastic kiddie pool and
some 4 x 4's or a wooden pallet. Wood is placed in the pool so that
the pots sit firmly on the board; the pool is then filled with water up
to the bottom of the pots. The wicks move the water to the pots.
Wick systems and automated wick systems are available from
several manufacturers. Because they require no moving parts, they
are generally reliable although much more expensive than

 

homemade ones, which are very simple to make.
Wick system units can be filled with any of the mixes found in
Chart 7-1-A.

 

The Reservoir System

The reservoir system is even less complex than the wick system.
For this setup all a grower needs to do is fill the bottom 2 or 3 inches
of a 12 inch deep container with a coarse, porous, inert medium
such as lava, ceramic beads or chopped unglazed pottery. The re-
maining portion is filled with one of the mixes containing
styrofoam. The container is placed in a tray, and sits directly in a
nutrient-water solution 2-3 inches deep. The system is automated
by placing the containers in a trough or large tray. Kiddie pools can
aiso be used. The water is not replaced until the holding tray dries.
Passive systems should be watered from the top down once a
month so that any buildup of nutrient salts caused by evaporation
gets washed back to the bottom.
ACTIVE HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS

 

Active systems move the water using mechanical devices in
order to deliver it to the plants. There are many variations on active
systems but most of them fall into one of three categories: flood
systems, drip systems or nutrient film systems.

 

 

The Flood System

The flood system is the type of unit that most people think of
when hydroponics is mentioned. The system usually has a reservoir
which periodically empties to flood the container or tub holding the
medium. The medium holds enough moisture between irrigations to
meet the needs of the plant. Older commercial greenhouses using
this method often held long troughs or beds of gravel. Today, flood
systems are designed using individual containers. Each container is
attached to the reservoir using tubing.
A simple flood system can be constructed using a container
with a tube attached at the bottom of a plastic container and a jug.
The tube should reach down to the jug, which should be placed
below the bottom of the growing container. To water, the tube is
held above the container so that it doesn't drip. The water is poured
from the jug into the container. Next, the tube is placed in the jug
and put back into position, below the growing container. The water
will drain back into the jug. Of course, not as much will drain back
in as was poured out. Some of the water was retained in the growing
unit.
Automating this unit is not difficult. A two-holed stopper is
placed in the jug. A tube from the growing unit should reach the

 

bottom of the reservoir container. Another tube should be attached
to the other stopper hole and then to a small aquarium-type air
pump which is regulated by a timer. When the pump turns on, it
pushes air into the jug, forcing the water into the container. When
the pump goes off, the water is forced back into the jug by gravity.
Several growing units can be hooked up to a large central reservoir
and pump to make a larger system. The water loss can automatical-
ly be replaced using a float valve, similar to the ones used to
regulate water in a toilet. Some growers place a second tube near
the top of the container which they use as an overflow drain.
Another system uses a reservoir above the growing container
level. A water timing valve or solenoid valve keeps the water in the
reservoir most of the time. When the valve opens, the water fills the
growing containers as well as a central chamber which are both at
the same height. The growing chambers and the central chamber
are attached to each other. The water level is regulated by a float
valve and sump pump. When the water level reaches a certain
height, near the top of the pots, the sump pump automatically turns
on and the water is pumped back up to the reservoir.
One grower used a kiddie pool, timer valve, flower pots, a rais-
ed reservoir and sump pump. He placed the containers in the kiddie
pool along with the sump pump and a float valve. When the timer
valve opened, the water rushed from the tank to the kiddie pool,
flooding the containers. The pump turned on when the water was
twb inches from the top of the containers and emptied the pool.
Only when the valve reopened did the plants receive more water.
With this system, growers have a choice of mediums, including
sand, gravel, lava, foam or chopped-up rubber. Vermiculite,
perlite, and styrofoam are too light to use. The styrofoam and
perlite float, and the vermiculite becomes too soggy.
The plants' water needs to increase during the lighted part of
the daily cycle, so the best time to water is as the light cycle begins.
If the medium does not hold enough moisture between waterings,
the frequency of waterings is increased.
There are a number of companies which manufacture flood
systems. Most of the commercially made ones work well, but they
tend to be on the expensive side. They are convenient though.
The Drip System

Years ago, the most sophisticated commercial greenhouses
used drip emitter systems which were considered exotic and
sophisticated engineering feats. These days, gardeners can go to any
well-equipped nursery and find all of the materials necessary to
design and build the most sophisticated drip systems. These units
consist of tubing and emitters which regulate the amount of water
delivered to each individual container. Several types of systems can
he designed using these devices.
The easiest system to make is a non-return drain unit. The
plants are watered periodically using a diluted nutrient solution. Ex-
cess water drains from the containers and out of the system. This
System is only practical when there is a drain in the growing area. If

 

each container has a growing tray to catch excess water and the
water control valve is adjusted closely, any excess water can be held
in the tray and eventually used by the plant or evaporated. Once a
gardener gets the hang of it, matching the amount of water
delivered to the amount needed is easy to do.
One grower developed a drip emitter system which re-uses the
water by building a wooden frame using 2 x 4's and covering it with
corrugated plastic sheeting. She designed it so that there was a slight
slope. The containers were placed on the corrugated plastic, so the
water drained along the corrugations into a rain drainage trough,
which drained into a 2 or 3 gallon holding tank. The water was
pumped from the holding tank back to the reservoir. The water was
released from the reservoir using a timer valve.
Growers make sure to use self-cleaning drip emitters so that
they do not clog with salt deposits. About a gallon every six hours
during daylight hours is pumped. Drip emitters can be used with
semiporous mediums such as ceramic beads, lava, gravel, sand or
periite-vermiculite-styrofoam mixtures.
Aerated Water

The aerated water system is probably the most complex of the
hydroponic systems because it allows the least margin for error. It
should only be used by growers with previous hydroponic ex-
perience. The idea of the system is that the plant can grow in water
as long as the roots receive adequate amounts of oxygen. To pro-
vide the oxygen, an air pump is used to oxygenate the water through
bubbling and also by increasing the circulation of the water so that
there is more contact with air. The plants can be grown in in-
dividual containers, each with its own bubbler or in a single flooded
unit in which containers are placed. One grower used a vinyl-
covered tank he constructed. He placed individual containers that
he made into the tank. His containers were made of heavy-duty
nylon mesh used by beermakers for soaking hops. This did not pre-
vent water from circulating around the roots.
Aerated water systems are easy to build. A small aquarium air
pump supplies all the water that is required. An aerator should be
connected to the end and a clear channel made in the container for
the air. The air channel allows the air to circulate and not disturb
the roots. Gravel, lava, or ceramic is used.
Nutrient Film Technique

The nutrient film technique is so named because the system
creates a film of water that is constantly moving around the roots
This technique is used in many commercial greenhouses to cultivate ~
fast growing vegetables such as lettuce without any medium. The
plants are supported by collars which hold them in place. This
method is unfeasible for marijuana growers. However, it can be
modified a bit to create an easy4o-care-for garden. Nursery sup-
pliers sell water mats, which disperse water from a soaker hose to a
nylon mat. The plants grow in bottomless containers which sit on
the mat. The medium absorbs water directly from the mat. In order

 

to hold the medium in place, it is placed in a nylon net bag in the
container.

Chapter Ten

Growing in the Ground

Some growers have the opportunity to grow plants directly in
the ground. Many greenhouses are built directly over the earth.
Growing directly in the soil has many advantages over container
growing. A considerable amount of labor may be eliminated
because there is no need to prepare labor-intensive containers with
expensive medium. Another advantage is that the plants' needs are
met more easily.
Before using any greenhouse soil, it is necessary to test it. The
pH and fertility of soils vary so much that there are few generaliza-
tions that can be made about them.
The most important quality of any soil is its texture. Soils
which drain well usually are composed of particles of varying size.
This creates paths for water to flow and also allows air pockets to
remain even when the soil is saturated.
Soils composed of very fine particles, such as mucks and clay,
do not drain well. Few air particles are trapped in these soils when
they are saturated. When this happens, the roots are unable to ob-
tain oxygen and they weaken when they are attacked by anaerobic
bacteria. These soils should be adjusted with sand and organic mat-
ter which help give the medium some porosity. Materials suitable
for this include sand, compost, composted manure, as well as
perlite, lava, gravel, sphagnum moss, styrofoam particles and foam
particles.
Low lying areas may have a very high water table so that the
soils remain saturated most of the time. One way to deal with this
problem is to create a series of mounds or raised beds so that the
roots are in ground at higher level than the floor level.
Once soil nutrient values are determined, adjustments can be
made in the soil's fertility. For marijuana, the soil should test high
in total Nitrogen, and the medium should test high in Phosphorous
and Potassium. This is covered in subsequent chapters.

to Growers use several methods to prepare the soil. Some prefer
till the whole area using either a fork, a roto-tiller or a small trac-
tor and plow. The marijuana plant grows both vertical and horizon-
tal roots. The horizontal roots grow from the surface to a depth of
9-18 inches depending on the soil's moisture. They grow closer to I
the surface of moist soils. The vertical root can stretch down several
feet in search of water. In moist soils, the vertical roots may be
short, even stunted.
Soil with loose texture, sandy soils, and soils high in organic
matter may have adequate aeration, porosity, and space for roots
and may not have to be tilled at all. Most soils should be dug to a
depth of 6-9 inches. The tighter the soil's texture, the deeper it
should be tilled.

 

If the soil is compacted, it is dug to a depth of two feet. This
can be done by plowing and moving the soil in alternate rows and
then plowing the newly uncovered soil. Soil texture adjustors such
as gypsum are added to the bottom layer of the soil as well as the
top layer, but soil amendments such as fertilizers or compost are
added only to the top layer, where most of the plant's roots are.
Then the soil is moved back into the troughs and the alternate rows
are prepared the same way.
A variation of this technique is the raised bed. First, the whole
area is turned, and then aisles are constructed by digging out the
pathways and adding the material to the beds. With the addition of
organic soil amendments, the total depth of prepared soil may
stretch down 18 inches.
Some growers use planting holes rather than tilling the soil. A
hole ranging between 1 and 3 feet wide and 1 and 3 feet deep is
dug at each space where there is to be a plant. The digging can be
facilitated using a post hole digger, electric shovel, or even a small
backhoe or power hole digger. Once the hole is dug the soil is ad-
justed with amendments or even replaced with a mix.
No matter how the soil is prepared, the groundwater level and
the permeability of the lower layers is of upmost importance. Areas
with high water tables, or underlying clay or hardpan will not drain
well. In either case the garden should be grown in raised beds which
allow drainage through the aisles and out of the growing area,
rather than relying on downward movement through soil layers.
Soils in used greenhouses may be quite imbalanced even if the
plants were growing in containers. The soil may have a buildup of
nutrient salts, either from runoff or direct application, and
pesticides or herbicides may be present. In soils with high water
tables the nutrients and chemicals have nowhere to go, so they
dissolve and spread out horizontally as well as vertically, con-
taminating the soil in surrounding areas.
Excess salts can be flushed from the soil by flooding the area
with water and letting it drain to the water table. In areas with high
water tables, flushing is much more difficult. Trenches are dug
around the perimeter of the garden which is then flooded with
nutrient-free water. As the water drains into the trenches, it is
removed with a pump and transported to another location.
Pesticides and herbicides may be much more difficult to
remove. Soils contaminated with significant amounts of residues
may be unsuitable for use with material to be ingested or inhaled.
Instead, the garden should be grown in containers using non-
indigenous materials.
Usually plants are sexed before they are planted in the ground.
If the soil showed adequate nutrient values no fertilizer or side
dressing will be required for several months.
Several growers have used ingenious techniques to provide
their gardens with earthy environments. One grower in Oregon
chopped through the concrete floor of his garage to make planting
holes. The concrete had been poured over sub-soil so he dug out the
holes and replaced the sub-soil with a mixture of composted

 

manure, vermiculite, perlite, worm castings, and other organic in
gredients. He has been using the holes for several years. After
several crops, he redigs the holes and adds new ingredients to the
mix.
A grower in Philadelphia lived in a house with a backyard
which was cemented over. He constructed a raised bed over the con-
crete using railroad ties and filled it with a rich topsoil and com
posted manure mixture, then built his greenhouse over that. The
growing bed is about 15 inches deep and the grower reports incredi-
ble growth rates.

PART III.

Limiting Factors

There are five factors that can promote or limit plant growth.
Each may be a weak link in a chain and the plant can grow no faster
than the weakest link allows.
Light, C02, temperature, nutrients, and water are all needed
by the plant for it to carry on its life processes.
In an indoor environment, it is up to the gardener to make sure
that all of these conditions are met adequately so that the plant can
grow as quickly and healthily as possible.

Chapter Eleven

Lighting and Lights

Green plants use light for several purposes. The most amazing
thing that they do with it is to use the energy contained in light to
make sugar from water (H20) and carbon dioxide (C02). This pro-
cess is called photosynthesis and it provides the basic building block
for most life on Earth. Plants convert the sugars they make into
starches and then into complex molecules composed of starches,
such as cellulose. Amino acids, the building blocks of all proteins,
are formed with the addition of nitrogen atoms.
Plants also use light to regulate their other life processes. As we
mentioned earlier, marijuana regulates its flowering based on the
number of hours of uninterrupted darkness. (See Chapter 25,
Flowering)
Sunlight is seen as white light, but is composed of a broad band
of colors which cover the optic spectrum. Plants use red and blue
light most efficiently for photosynthesis and to regulate other pro-
cesses. However, they do use other light colors as well for
photosynthesis. In fact, they use every color except green, which
they reflect back. (That is why plants appear green; they absorb all
the other spectrums except green.) In controlled experiments, plants
respond more to the total amount of light received than to the spec-
trums in which it was delivered.
The best source of light is the sun. It requires no expense, no
electricity, and does not draw suspicion. It is brighter than artificial
lighting and is self-regulating. Gardeners can use the sun as a
Primary source of light if they have a large window, skylight,

 

translucent roof, enclosed patio, roof garden, or greenhouse. These
gardens may require some supplemental lighting, especially if the
light enters from a small area such as a skylight, in order to fill a
large area.
It is hard to say just how much supplemental light a garden
needs. Bright spaces which are lit from unobstructed overhead light
such as a greenhouse or a large southern window need no light dur-
ing the summer but may need artificial light during the winter to
supplement the weak sunlight or overcast conditions. Spaces receiv-
ing indirect sunlight during the summer need some supplemental
lighting.
Light requirements vary by variety. During the growth cycle,
most varieties will do well with 1000-1500 lumens per square foot
although the plants can use more lumens, up to 3000, efficiently.
Equatorial varieties may develop long internodes (spaces on the
stem between the leaves) when grown under less than bright condi-
tions. During flowering, indica varieties can mature well on 2000
lumens. Equatorial varieties require 2500-5000 lumens. Indica-
sativa F1 (first generation) hybrids usually do well on 2500-3000
lumens.
Some light meters have a foot-candle readout. Thirty-five
millimeter cameras that have built-in light meters can also be used.
In either case, a sheet of white paper is placed at the point to be
measured so it reflects the light most brilliantly. Then the meter is
focused entirely on the paper.
The camera is set for ASA 100 film and the shutter is set for 1/60
second. A 50 mm or "normal" lens is used. Using the manual
mode, the camera is adjusted to the correct f-stop. The conversion
chart, 10-1, shows the amount of light hitting the paper.
Most growers, for one reason or another, are not able to use
natural light to grow marijuana. Instead, they use artificial lights to
provide the light energy which plants require to photosynthesize,
regulate their metabolism, and ultimately to grow. There are a
number of sources of artificial lighting. Cultivators rarely use in-
candescent or quartz halogen lights. They convert only about l0%
of the energy they use to light and are considered inefficient.
CHART 10-1: FOOTCANDLES
1/60 Second, ASA 100 1/125 Second ASA 100
F-Stop Footcandles F-Stop Footcandles
f.4 64 f.4 126
f.5.6 125 f.5.6 250
f.8 250 f.8 500
f.11 500 f.11 1000
f.16 1000 f.16 2000
f.22 2000 f.22 4000

 

On some cameras it is easier to adjust the shutter speed, keeping the f. stop
set at f.4 (at ASA 100):

Shutter

 

Speed Footcandles
1/60 64
1/125 125
1/250 250
1/500 500
1/1000 1000
1/2000 2000
FLUORESCENT TUBES

 

Growers have used fluorescent tubes to provide light for many
years. They are inexpensive, are easy to set up, and are very effec-
tive. Plants grow and bud well under them. They are two to three
times as efficient as incandescents. Until recently, fluorescents came
mostly in straight lengths of 2, 4, 6, or 8 feet, which were placed in
standard reflectors. Now there are many more options for the
fluorescent user. One of the most convenient fixtures to use is the
screw-in converter for use in incandescent sockets, which come with
8 or 12 inch diameter circular fluorescent tubes. A U-shaped 9 inch
screw-in fluorescent is also available. Another convenient fixture is
the "light wand", which is a 4 foot, very portable tube. It is not
saddled with a cumbersome reflector.
Fluorescents come in various spectrums as determined by the
type of phosphor with which the surface of the tube is coated. Each
phosphor emits a different set of colors. Each tube has a spectrum
identification such as "warm white", "cool white", "daylight", or
"deluxe cool white" to name a few. This signifies the kind of light
the tube produces. For best results, growers use a mixture of tubes
which have various shades of white light. One company manufac-
tures a fluorescent tube which is supposed to reproduce the sun's
spectrum. It is called Vita-Lite and works well. It comes in a more
efficient version, the "Power Twist", which uses the same amount
of electricity but emits more light because it has a larger surface
area.
"Gro-Tubes" do not work as well as regular fluorescents even
though they produce light mainly in the red and blue spectrums.
They produce a lot less light than the other tubes.
To maintain a fast growing garden, a minimum of 20 watts of
fluorescent light per square foot is required. As long as the plants'
other needs are met, the more light that the plants receive, the faster
and bushier they will grow. The plants' buds will also be heavier
and more developed. Standard straight-tubed fluorescent lamps use
8-10 watts per linear foot. To light a garden, 2 tubes are required
for each foot of width. The 8 inch diameter circular tubes use 22
watts, the 12 inch diameter use 32 watts. Using straight tubes, it is
possible to fit no more than 4 tubes in each foot of width because of
the size of the tubes. A unit using a combination of 8 and 12 inch
circular tubes has an input of 54 watts per square foot.
Some companies manufacture energy-saving electronic ballasts
designed for use with special fluorescent tubes. These units use 39%
less electricity and emit 91 % of the light of standard tubes. For in-

 

stance an OptimizerÆ warm white 4 foot tube uses 28 watts and
emits 2475 lumens.
Both standard and VHO ballasts manufactured before 1980
are not recommended. They were insulated using carcinogenic
PCB's and they are a danger to your health should they leak.
The shape of the fluorescent reflector used determines, to a
great extent, how much light the plants receive. Fluorescent tubes
emit light from their entire surface so that some of the light is
directed at the reflector surfaces. Many fixtures place the tubes very
Close to each other so that only about 40% of the light is actually
transmitted out of the unit. The rest of it is trapped between the
tubes or between the tubes and the reflector. This light may as well
not be emitted since it is doing no good.
A better reflector can be constructed using a wooden frame.
Place the tube holders at equal distances from each other at least 4
inches apart. This leaves enough space to construct small mini-
reflectors which are angled to reflect the light downward and to
separate the light from the different tubes so that it is not lost in
crosscurrents. These mini-reflectors can be made from cardboard
or plywood and painted white. The units should be no longer than
2 feet wide so that they can be manipulated easily. Larger units
are hard to move up and down and they make access to the garden
difficult, especially when the plants are small, and there is not much
vertical space. The frame of the reflector should be covered with
reflective material such as aluminum foil so that all of the light is
directed to the garden. Fluorescent lights should be placed about
2-4 inches from the tops of the plants.
Growers sometimes use fluorescent lights in innovative ways to
supplement the main source of light. Lights are sometimes placed
along the sides of the garden or in the midst of it. One grower used
light wands which he hung vertically in the midst of the garden.
'Ibis unit provided light to the lower parts of the plants which are
often shaded. Another grower hung a tube horizontally at plant
level between each row. He used no reflector because the tube shin-
ec' on the plants from every angle. Lights can be hung at diagonal
angles to match the different plants' heights.

 

 

VERY HIGH OUTPUT (VHO) FLUORESCENTS

 

Standard fluorescents use about 10 watts per linear foot-a 4

foot fluorescent uses 40 watts, an 8 footer 72 watts. VHO tubes use
about three times the electricity that standard tubes use, or about
o 215 watts for an 8 foot tube, and they emit about 2 times the

light. While they are not quite as efficient as a standard tube, they
are often more convenient to use. Two tubes per foot produce the
equivalent electricity of S standard tubes. Only one tube per foot is

 

needed and two tubes emit a v&y bright light. The banks of tubes
are eliminated.
VHO tubes come in the same spectrums as standards. They re-
quire different ballasts than standards and are available at commer-
vial lighting companies.
METAL HALIDE LAMPS

Metal halide lamps are probably the most popular lamp used
for growing. These are the same type of lamp that are used out-
doors as streetlamps or to illuminate sports events. They emit a
white light. Metal halide lamps are very convenient to use. They
come ready to plug in. The complete unit consists of a lamp (bulb),
fixture (reflector) and long cord which plugs into a remote ballast.
The fixture and lamp are lightweight and are easy to hang. Only one
chain or rope is needed to suspend the fixture, which takes up little
space, making it easy to gain access to the garden.
In an unpublished, controlled experiment it was observed that
marijuana plants responded better to light if the light came from a
single point source such as a metal halide, rather than from emis-
sions from a broad area as with fluorescents. Plants growing under
metal halides develop quickly into strong plants. Flowering is pro-
fuse, with heavier budding than under fluorescents. Lower leaf
development was better too, because the light penetrated the top
leaves more.
Metal halide lamps are hung in two configurations: vertical
and horizontal. The horizontal lamp easily focuses at a higher per-
cent of light on the garden, but it emits 10% less light. Most
manufacturers and distributors sell vertically hanging metal halides.
However, it is worth the effort to find a horizontal unit.
In order for a vertical hanging metal halide lamp to deliver
light to the garden efficiently, the horizontal light that it is emitting
must be directed downward or the halide must be placed in the
midst of the garden. It only becomes practical to remove the reflec-
tor and let the horizontally directed light radiate when the plants
have grown a minimum of six feet tall. Reflectors for vertical lamps
should be at least as long as the lamp. If a reflector does not cover
the lamp completely, some of the light will be lost horizontally.
Many firms sell kits with reflectors which do not cover the whole
lamp.
Reflectors can be modified using thin gauge wire such as
poultry wire and aluminum foil. A h6le is cut out in the middle of
the chicken wire frame so that it fits over the wide end of the reflec-
tor. Then it is shaped so that it will distribute the light as evenly as
possible. Aluminum foil is placed over the poultry wire. (One
grower made an outer frame of 1 x 2's which held the poultry wire,
metal halide, and foil).
Metal halide lamps come in 400, 1000 and 1500 watt sizes. The
1500 watt lamps are not recommended because they have a much
shorter life than the other lamps. The 400 watt lamps can easily il-
luminate a small garden S x 5 feet or smaller. These are ideal lights
for a small garden. They are also good to brighten up dark spots in

 

the garden.
In European nurseries, 400 watt horizontal units are standard.
They are attached to the ceiling and placed at even 5 foot intervals
so that light from several lamps hits each plant. Each lamp beam
diffuses as the vertical distance from the plants may be 6-8 feet, but
no light is lost. The beams overlap. No shuttle type device is re-
quired. The same method can be used with horizontal 1000 watt
lamps and 8 foot intervals. Vertical space should be at least 12 feet.
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM VAPOR LAMPS

 

Sodium vapor lamps emit an orange or amber-looking light.
They are the street lamps that are commonly used these days. These
lights look peculiar because they emit a spectrum that is heavily
concentrated in the yellow, orange, and red spectrums with only a
small amount of blue. They produce about 15% more light than
metal halides. They use the same configuration as metal halides:
lamp, reflector, and remote ballast.
Growers originally used single sodium vapor lamps primarily
for flowering because they thought that if the extra yellow and
orange light was closer to the sun's spectrum in the fall, when the
amount of blue light reaching Earth was limited, the red light would
increase flowering or resin production. In another unpublished con-
trolled experiment, a metal halide lamp and a sodium vapor lamp
were used as the only sources of light in 2 different systems. The
garden under the metal halide matured about a week faster than the
pyden under the sodium vapors. Resin content seemed about the
same Other growers have reported different results. They claim
Jilat the sodium vapor lamp does increase THC and resin produc-
Uon Plants can be grown under sodium vapor lights as the sole
'ource of illumination.
Many growers use sodium vapor lamps in conjunction with
metal halides; a typical ratio is 2 halides to 1 sodium. Some growers
use metal halides during the growth stages but change to sodium
vapor lamps during the harvest cycle. This is not hard to do since
o both lamps fit in the same reflector. The lamps use different
ballasts.
High pressure sodium vapor lamps come in 400 and 1000 watt
configurations with remote ballasts designed specifically for
culitivation. Smaller wattages designed for outdoor illumination are
available from hardware stores. The small wattage lamps can be us-
ed for brightening dark areas of the garden or for hanging between
the rows of plants in order to provide bright light below the tops.
ACCESSORIES

 

One of the most innovative accessories for lighting is the
"Solar Shuttle' 'Æ and its copies. This device moves a metal halide or
sodium vapor lamp across a track 6 feet or longer. Because the
lamp is moving, each plant comes directly under its field several
times during the growing period. Instead of plants in the center

 

receiving more light than those on the edge, the light is more equally
distributed. This type of unit increases the total efficiency of the
light. Garden space can be increased by I 5-20% or the lamp can be
used to give the existing garden more light.
Other units move the lamps over an arc path. The units take
various amounts of time to complete a journey - from 40 seconds
upward.
ELECTRICITY AND LIGHTING

 

At 110-120 volts, a 1000 watt lamp uses about 8.7 amps (watts
divided by volts equals amps). Including a 15% margin for safety it
can be figured as 10 amps. Many household circuits are rated for 20
or 30 amps. Running 2 lights on a twenty amp circuit taxes it to
capacity and is dangerous. If more electricity is required than can be
safely supplied on a circuit, new wiring can be installed from the
fusebox.
All electrical equipment should be grounded.
Some growers report that the electrical company's interest was
aroused, sometimes innocently, when their electric bill began to
spurt. After all, each hour a lamp is on it uses about 1 kilowatt
hour.

Chapter Twelve

Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide (C02) is a gas which comprises about .03% or
(300 parts per million, "PPM") of the atmosphere. It is not
dangerous. It is one of the basic raw materials (water is the other)
required for photosynthesis. The plant makes a sugar molecule us-
ing light for energy, C02 which is pulled out of the air, and water,
which is pulled up from its roots.
Scientists believe that early in the Earth's history the at-
mosphere contained many times the amount of C02 it does today.
Plants have never lost their ability to process gas at these high rates.
In fact, with the Earth's present atmosphere, plant growth is
limited.
When plants are growing in an enclosed area, there is a limited
amount of C02 for them to use. When the C02 is used up, the
plant's photosynthesis stops. Only as more C02 is provided can the
plant use light to continue the process. Adequate amounts of C02
may be easily replaced in well-ventilated areas, but increasing the
amount of C02 to .2% (2000 PPM) or 6 times the amount usually
found in the atmosphere, can increase the growth rate by up to S
times. For this reason, many commercial nurseries provide a
C02-enriched area for their plants.
Luckily, C02 can be supplied cheaply. At the most organic
level, there are many metabolic processes that create C02. For ex-
ample, organic gardeners sometimes make compost in the
greenhouse. About 1/6 to º of the pile's starting wet weight is con-
verted to C02 so that a 200 pound pile contributes 33-50 pounds of

 

carbon to the gas. Carbon makes up about 27% of the weight and
volume of the gas and oxygen makes up 73%, so that the total
amount of C02 created is 122 to 185 pounds produced over a 30 day
period.
Brewers and vintners would do well to ferment their beverages
in the greenhouse. Yeast eat the sugars contained in the fermenta-
tion mix, releasing C02 and alcohol. The yeast produce quite a bit
of C02 when they are active.
One grower living in a rural area has some rabbit hutches in his
greenhouse. The rabbits use the oxygen produced by the plants, and
in return, release C02 by breathing. Another grower told me that he
is supplying his plants with C02 by spraying them periodically with
seltzer (salt-free soda water), which is water with C02 dissolved. He
claims to double the plants' growth rate. This method is a bit expen-
sive when the plants are large, but economical when they are small.
A correspondent used the exhausts from his gas-fired water
heater and clothes dryer. To make the area safe of toxic fumes that
might be in the exhaust, he built a manually operated shut-off valve
so that the spent air could be directed into the growing chamber or
up a flue. Before he entered the room he sent any exhausts up the
flue and turned on a ventilating fan which drew air out of the room.
Growers do not have to become brewers, rabbit farmers, or
spray their plants with Canada Dry. There are several economical
and convenient ways to give the plants adequate amounts of C02:
using a C02 generator, which burns natural gas or kerosene, using a
C02 tank with regulator, or by evaporating dry ice.
To find out how much C02 is needed to bring the growing area
to the ideal 2000 PPM, multiply the cubic area of the growing room
(length x width x height) by .002. The total represents the number
of square feet of gas required to reach optimum C02 range. For in-
stance, a room 13' x 18' x 12' contains 2808 cubic feet: 2808 x .002
equals 5.6 cubic feet of C02 required. The easiest way to supply the
gas is to use a C02 tank. All the equipment can be built from parts
available at a welding supply store or purchased totally assembled
from many growing supply companies. Usually tanks come in 20
and 50 pound sizes, and can be bought or rented. A tank which
holds 50 pounds has a gross weight of 170 pounds when filled.

A grow room of 500 cubic feet requires 1 cubic foot of C02
A grow room of 1000 cubic feet requires 2 cubic feet of C02
A grow room of 5000 cubic feet requires 10 cubic feet of C02
A grow room of 10,000 cubic feet requires 20 cubic feet of C02

To regulate dispersal of the gas, a combination flow
meter/regulator is required. Together they regulate the flow bet-
ween 10 and 50 cubic feet per hour. The regulator standardizes the
pressure and regulates the number of cubic feet released per hour.
A solenoid valve shuts the flow meter on and off as regulated by a
multicycle timer, so the valve can be turned on and off several times
each day. If the growing room is small, a short-range timer is need-
ed. Most timers are calibrated in hour increments, but a short-

 

range timer keeps the valve open only a few minutes.
To find out how long the valve should remain open, the
number of cubic feet of gas required (in our example 5.6 cubic feet)
is divided by the flow rate. For instance, if the flow rate is 10 cubic
feet per hour, 5.6 divided by 10 = .56 hours or 33 minutes (.56 x
60 minutes = 33 minutes). At 30 cubic feet per hour, the number of
minutes would be .56 divided by 30 x 60 minutes = 11.2 minutes.
The gas should be replenished every two hours in a warm, well-
lit room when the plants are over 3 feet high if there is no outside
ventilation. When the plants are smaller or in a moderately lit
room, they do not use the C02 as fast. With ventilation the gas
should be replenished once an hour or more frequently. Some
growers have a ventilation fan on a timer in conjunction with the
gas. The fan goes off when the gas is injected into the room. A few
minutes before the gas is injected in the room, the fan starts and
removes the old air. The gas should be released above the plants
since the gas is heavier than air and sinks. A good way to disperse
the gas is by using inexpensive "soaker hoses", sold in plant
nurseries. These soaker hoses have tiny holes in them to let out the
C02.
The C02 tank is placed where it can be removed easily. A hose
is run from the regulator unit (where the gas comes out) to the top
of the garden. C02 is cooler and heavier than air and will flow
downward, reaching the top of the plants first.
Dry ice is C02 which has been cooled to - 109 degrees, at
which temperature it becomes a solid. It costs about the same as the
gas in tanks. It usually comes in 30 pound blocks which evaporate
at the rate of about 7% a day when kept in a freezer. At room
temperatures, the gas evaporates considerably faster, probably sup-
plying much more C02 than is needed by the plants. One grower
worked at a packing plant where dry ice was used. Each day he took
home a couple of pounds, which fit into his lunch pail. When he
came home he put the dry ice in the grow room, where it evaporated
over the course of the day.
Gas and kerosene generators work by burning hydrocarbons
which release heat and create C02 and water. Each pound of fuel
burned produces about 3 pounds of CO2, 1 pounds of water and
about 21,800 BTU's (British Thermal Units) of heat. Some gases
and other fuels may have less energy (BTU's) per pound. The fuel's
BTU rating is checked before making calculations.
Nursery supply houses sell C02 generators especially designed
for greenhouses, but household style kerosene or gas heaters are
also suitable. They need no vent. The C02 goes directly into the
room's atmosphere. Good heaters burn cleanly and completely,
leaving no residues, creating no carbon monoxide (a colorless,
odorless, poisonous gas). Even so, it is a good idea to shut the
heater off and vent the room before entering the space.
If a heater is not working correctly, most likely it burns the fuel
incompletely, creating an odor. More expensive units have pilots
and timers; less expensive models must be adjusted manually.
Heaters with pilots can be modified to use a solenoid valve and

 

timer.
At room temperature, one pound of C02 equals 8.7 cubic feet.
It takes only of a pound of kerosene (5.3 ounces) to make a
pound of C02. To calculate the amount of fuel required, the
number of cubic feet of gas desired is divided by 8.7 and multiplied
by .33. In our case, 5.6 cubic feet divided by 8.7 times .33 equals .21
pounds of fuel. To find out how many ounces this is, multiply .21
times 16 (number of ounces in a pound) to arrive at a total of 3.3
ounces, a little less than half a cup (4 ounces).

6/10ths ounce produces 1 cubic foot of C02
1.2 ounces produce 2 cubic feet of C02
3 ounces produce 5 cubic feet of C02
6 ounces produce 10 cubic feet of C02
To find out fuel usage, divide the number of BTU's produced
by 21,800. If a generator produces 12,000 BTU's an hour, it is using
12,000 divided by 21,800 or about .55 pounds of fuel per hour.
However only .21 pounds are needed. To calculate the number of
minutes the generator should be on, the amount of fuel needed is
divided by the flow rate and multiplied by 60. In our case, .21
(amount of fuel needed) divided by .55 (flow rate) multiplied by 60
equals 22.9 minutes.
The C02 required for at least one grow room was supplied us-
ing gas lamps. The grower said that she thought it was a shame that
the fuel was used only for the C02 and thought her plants would
benefit from the additional light. She originally had white gas lamps
spaced evenly throughout the garden. She replaced them after the
first crop with gas lamps all hooked up to a central LP gas tank.
She only had to turn the unit on and light the lamps each day. It
shut itself off. She claims the system worked well.
C02 should be replenished every 3 hours during the light cycle,
since it is used up by the plants and leaks from the room into the
general atmosphere. Well-ventilated rooms should be replenished
more often. It is probably more effective to have a generator or
tank releasing C02 for longer periods at slower rates than for
shorter periods of time at higher rates.

Chapter Thirteen

Temperature

Marijuana plants are very hardy and survive over a wide range
of temperatures. They can withstand extremely hot weather, up to
120 degrees, as long as they have adequate supplies of water. Can-
nabis seedlings regularly survive light frost at the beginning of the
season.
Both high and low temperatures slow marijuana's rate of
metabolism and growth. The plants function best in moderate
temperatures - between 60 and 85 degrees. As more light is
available, the ideal temperature for normal plant growth increases.
If plants are given high temperatures and only moderate light, the
stems elongate. Conversely, strong light and low temperatures

 

decrease stem elongation. During periods of low light, strong
elongation is decreased by lowering the temperature. Night
temperatures should be 10-15 degrees lower than daytime
temperatures.
Temperatures below 50 degrees slow growth of most varieties.
When the temperature goes below 40 degrees, the plants may ex-
perience some damage and require about 24 hours to resume
growth. Low nighttime temperatures may delay or prevent bud
maturation. Some equatorial varieties stop growth after a few 40
degree nights.
A sunny room or one illuminated by high wattage lamps heats
up rapidly. During the winter the heat produced may keep the room
comfortable. However the room may get too warm during the sum-
mer. Heat rises, so that the temperature is best measured at the
plants' height. A room with a 10 foot ceiling may feel uncomfor-
tably warm at head level but be fine for plants 2 feet tall.
If the room has a vent or window, an exhaust fan can be used
to cool it. Totally enclosed spaces can be cooled using a water con-
ditioner which cools the air by evaporating water. If the room is lit
entirely by lamps, the day/night cycle can be reversed so that the
heat is generated at night, when it is cooler out.
Marijuana is low-temperature tolerant. Outdoors, seedlings
sometimes pierce snow cover, and older plants can withstand short,
light frosts. Statistically, more males develop in cold temperatures.
However, low temperatures slow down the rate of plant
metabolism. Cold floors lower the temperature in containers and
medium, slowing germination and growth. Ideally, the medium
temperature should be 70 degrees. There are several ways to warm
the medium. The floor can be insulated using a thin sheet of
styrofoam, foam rubber, wood or newspaper. The best way to in-
sulate a container from a cold floor is to raise the container so that
there is an air space between it and the floor.
Overhead fans, which circulate the warm air downward from
the top of the room also warm the medium.
When the plants' roots are kept warm, the rest of the plant can
be kept cooler with no damage. Heat cables or heat mats, which use
small amounts of electricity, can be used to heat the root area.
These are available at nursery supply houses.
When watering, tepid water should be used. Cultivators using
systems that recirculate water can heat the water with a fish tank
heater and thermostat. If the air is cool, 45-60 degrees, the water
can be heated to 90 degrees. If the air is warm, over 60 degrees, 70
degrees for the water is sufficient. The pipes and medium absorb
the water down a bit before it reaches the roots.
Gardens using artificial lighting can generate high air
temperatures. Each 1000 watt metal halide and ballast emits just a
little less energy than a 10 amp heater. Several lights can raise the
temperature to an intolerable level. In this case a heat exchanger is
required. A venting fan or misters can be used to lower
temperatures. Misters are not recommended for use around lights.
Greenhouses can also get very hot during the summer. If the

 

sun is very bright, opaquing paint may lower the amount of light
and heat entering the greenhouse. Fans and cooling mats also help.
Cooling mats are fibrous plastic mats which hold moisture. Fans
blow air through the mats which lowers the greenhouSC
temperature. They are most effective in hot dry areas. They are
available through nursery supply houses.

Chapter Fourteen

Air and Humidity

Besides temperature and C02 content, air has other qualities
including dust content, electrical charge and humidity.

 

Dust

"Dust" is actually composed of many different-sized solid and
liquid particles which float in the gaseous soup. The particles in-
clude organic fibers, hair, other animal and vegetable particles,
bacteria, viruses, smoke and odoriferous liquid particles such as
essential oils, and water-soluble condensates. Virtually all of the
particles have a positive electrical charge, which means that they are
missing an electron, and they float (due to electrical charge)
tbrough various passing gasses.
The dust content of the air affects the efficiency of the plant's
ability to photosynthesize. Although floating dust may block a
small amount of light, dust which has precipitated on leaves may
blcck large amounts. Furthermore, the dust clogs the pores through
which plants transpire. Dust can easily be washed off leaves using a
fme mist spray. Water must be prevented from touching and shat-
tering the hot glass of the lights.

 

Negative Ions

In unindustrialized verdant areas and near large bodies of
water, the air is negatively charged, that is, there are electrons
floating in the air unattached to atoms or molecules. In industrializ-
ed areas or very dry regions, the air is positively charged; there are
atoms and molecules missing electrons.
Some researchers claim that the air's electrical charge affects
plant growth (and also animal behavior). They claim that plants in a
positively charged environment grow slower than those in a
Regatively charged area.
. ,
Regardless of the controversy regarding growth and the air 5
electrical charge, the presence of negative ions creates some readily
observable effects. Odors are characteristic of positively charged
particles floating in the air. A surplus of negative ions causes the
particles to precipitate so that there are no odors. With enough
negative ions, a room filled with pungent, flowering sinsemilla is

 

odorless.
Spaces with a "surplus" negative ion charge have clean, fresh-
smelling air. Falling water, which generates negative ions,
characteristically creates refreshing air. Dust particles are
precipitated so that there are fewer bacteria and fungus spores
floating in the air, as well as much less dust in general. This lowers
chance of infection.
Many firms manufacture "Negative Ion Generators",
"Ionizers", and "Ion Fountains", which disperse large quantities
of negative ions into the atmosphere. These units are inexpensive,
safe and recommended for all growing areas. Ion generators
precipitate particles floating in the air. With most generators, the
precipitating particles land within a radius of two feet of the point
of dispersal, collecting quickly and developing into a thick film of
grime. Newspaper is placed around the unit so that the space does
not get soiled. Some newer units have a precipitator which collects
dust on a charged plate instead of the other surrounding surfaces.
This plate can be roughly simulated by grounding a sheet of
aluminum foil. To ground foil, either attach it directly to a metal
plumbing line or grounding box; for convenience, the foil can be
held with an alligator clip attached to the electrical wire, which is at-
tached to the grounding source. As the foil gets soiled, it is replac-
ed.

 

Humidity

Cannabis grows best in a mildly humid environment: a relative
humidity of 40-60 percent. Plants growing in drier areas may ex-
perience chronic wilt and necrosis of the leaf tips. Plants growing in
a wetter environment usually experience few problems; however,
the buds are more susceptible to molds which can attack a garden
overnight and ruin a crop.
Growers are rarely faced with too dry a growing area. Since the
space is enclosed, water which is evaporated or transpired by the
plants increases the humidity considerably. If there is no ventila-
tion, a large space may reach saturation level within a few days.
Smaller spaces usually do not have this buildup because there is
usually enough air movement to dissipate the humidity. The solu-
tion may be as easy as opening a window. A small ventilation fan
can move quite a bit of air out of a space and may be a convenient
way of solving the problem. Humidity may be removed using a
dehumidifier in gardens without access to convenient ventilation.
Dehumidifiers work the same way a refrigerator does except
that instead of cooling a space, a series of tubes is cooled causing at-
mospheric water to condense. The smallest dehumidifiers (which
can dry out a large space) use about 15 amps. Usually the
dehumidifier needs to run only a few hours a day. If the plant
regimen includes a dark cycle, then the dehumidifier can be run
when the lights are off, to ease the electrical load.

 

 

 

Air Circulation

A close inspection of a marijuana leaf reveals many tiny hairs
and a rough surface. Combined, these trap air and create a micro-
environment around the plant. The trapped air contains more
humidity and oxygen and is warmer, which differs significantly in
composition and temperature from the surrounding atmosphere.
The plant uses C02 so there is less left in the air surrounding the
leaf. Marijuana depends on air currents to move this air and renew
the micro-environment. If the air is not moved vigorously, the
growth rate slows, since the micro-environment becomes C02
depleted.
Plants develop firm, sturdy stems as the result of environmen-
tal stresses. Outdoors, the plants sway with the wind, causing tiny
breaks in the stem. These are quickly repaired by the plant's rein-
forcing the original area and leaving it stronger than it was original-
ly. Indoors, plants don't usually need to cope with these stresses so
their stems grow weak unless the plants receive a breeze or are
shaken by the stems daily.
A steady air flow from outdoor ventilation may be enough to
keep the air moving. If this is not available, a revolving fan placed
several feet from the nearest plant or a slow-moving overhead fan
can solve the problem. Screen all air intake fans to prevent pests.

Chapter Fifteen

pH and Water

The pH is the measure of acid-alkalinity balance of a solution.
It is measured on a scale of 0-14, with 0 being the most acid, 7 being
neutral, and 14 being most alkaline. Most nutrients the plants use
are soluble only in a limited range of acidity, between about 6 to
about 7, neutral. Should the water become too acid or alkaline,
the nutrients dissolved in the water precipitate and become
unavailable to the plants. When the nutrients are locked up, plant
growth is slowed. Typically, a plant growing in an environment
with a low pH will be very small, often growing only a few inches in
several months. Plants growing in a high pH environment will look
pale and sickly and also have stunted growth.
All water has a pH which can be measured using aquarium or
garden pH chemical reagent test kits or a pH meter. All of these
items are available at local stores and are easy to use. Water is pH-
adjusted after nutrients are added, since nutrients affect the pH.
Once the water is tested it should be adjusted if it does not fall
within the pH range of 6 to 7. Ideally the range should be about
6.2-6.8. Hydroponic supply companies sell measured adjusters
which are very convenient and highly recommended. The water-
nutrient solution can be adjusted using common household
chemicals. Water which is too acid can be neutralized using bicar-
bonate of soda, wood ash, or by using a solution of lime in the
medium.

 

Water which is too alkaline can be adjusted using nitric acid,
sulfuric acid, citric acid (Vitamin C) or vinegar. The water is ad-
justed using small increments of chemicals. Once a standard
measure of how much chemical is needed to adjust the water, the
process becomes fast and easy to do.
Plants affect the pH of the water solution as they remove
various nutrients which they use. Microbes growing in the medium
also change the pH. For this reason growers check and adjust the
pH periodically, about once every two weeks.
The pH of water out of the tap may change with the season so
it is a good idea to test it periodically.
Some gardeners let tap water sit for a day so that the chlorine
evaporates. They believe that chlorine is harmful to plants.
The pH of the planting medium affects the pH of the liquid in
solution. Medium should be adjusted so that it tests between
6.2-6.8. This is done before the containers are filled so that the
medium could be adjusted in bulk. Approximately 1-2 lbs. of
dolomitic limestone raises the pH of 100 gallons (4.5-9 grams per
gallon) of soil 1 point. Gypsum can be used to lower the pH of soil
or medium. Both limestone and gypsum have limited solubility.
There are many forms of limestone which have various effec-
tiveness depending on their chemistry. Each has a rating on the
package.

Chapter Sixteen
Nutrients

Marijuana requires a total of 14 nutrients which it obtains
through its roots. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), and Potassium
(K) are called the macro-nutrients because they are used in large
quantities by the plant. The percentages of N, P, and K are always
listed in the same order on fertilizer packages.
Calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), and magnesium (Mg) are also re-
quired by the plants in fairly large quantities. These are often called
the secondary nutrients.
Smaller amounts of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn),
boron (B), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo) and
chlorine (Cl) are also needed. These are called micro-nutrients.
Marijuana requires more N before flowering than later in its
cycle. When it begins to flower, marijuana's use of P increases.
Potassium requirements increase after plants are fertilized as a
result of seed production.
Plants which are being grown in soil mixes or mixes with
nutrients added such as compost, manure or time-release fertilizers
may need no additional fertilizing or only supplemental amounts if
the plants begin to show deficiencies.
The two easiest and most reliable ways to meet the plant's
needs are to use a prepared hydroponic fertilizer or an organic
water-soluble fertilizer. Hydroponic fertilizers are blended as com-
plete balanced formulas. Most non-hydroponic fertilizers usually
contain only the macronutrients, N, P and K. Organic fertilizers
such as fish emulsion and other blends contain trace elements which

 

are found in the organic matter from which they are derived.
Most indoor plant fertilizers are water-soluble. A few of them
are time-release formulas which are mixed into the medium as it is
being prepared. Plants grown in soil mixes can usually get along us-
ing regular fertilizers but plants grown in prepared soilless mixes
definitely require micronutrients.
As the seeds germinate they are given a nutrient solution high
in N such as a 20-10-10 or 17-10-12. These are just two possible
formulas; any with a high proportion of N will do.
Formulas which are not especially high in N can be used and
supplemented with a high N fertilizer such as fish emulsion (which
may create an odor) or the Sudbury XÆ component fertilizer which
is listed as 44-0-0. Urine is also very high in N and is easily absorb-
ed by the plants. It should be diluted to one cup urine per gallon of
water.
The plants should be kept on a high N fertilizer regimen until
they are put into the flowering regimen.
During the flowering cycle, the plants do best with a formula
lower in N and higher in P, which promotes bloom. A fertilizer
such as 5-20-10 or 10-19-12 will do. (Once again, these are typical
formulas, similar ones will do).
Growers who make their own nutrient mixes based on parts per
million of nutrient generally use the following formulas.

 

CHART 15-1: NUTRIENT/WATER SOLUTION IN PARTS PER MILLION (PPM)
N P K
Germination - 15 to 20 days 110-150 70-100 50-75
Fast Growth 200-250 60-80 150-200
Pre-Flowering 70-100 100-150 75-100
2 weeks before turning light down
Flowering 0-50 100-150 50-75
Seeding - fertilized flowers 100-200 70-100 100-150

 

 

Plants can be grown using a nutrient solution containing no N
for the last 10 days. Many of the larger leaves yellow and wither as
the N migrates from old to the new growth. The buds are less green
and have less of a minty (chlorophyll) taste.
Many cultivators use several brands and formulas of fertilizer.
They either mix them together in solution or switch brands each
feeding.
Plant N requirements vary by weather as well as growth cycle.
Plants growing under hot conditions are given 10-20% less N or
else they tend to elongate and to grow thinner, weaker stalks. Plants
in a cool or cold regimen may be given 10-20% more N. More N is
given under high light conditions, less is used under low light
conditions.
Organic growers can make "teas" from organic nutrients by
soaking them in water. Organic nutrients usually contain

 

micronutrients as well as the primary ones. Manures and blood
meal are among the most popular organic teas, but other organic
sources of nutrients include urine, which may be the best source for
N, as well as blood meal and tankage. Organic fertilizers vary in
their formulas. The exact formula is usually listed on the label.
Here is a list of common organic fertilizers which can be used
to make teas:

CHART 15-2: ORGANIC FERTILIZERS
Fertilizer N P K Remarks
Bloodmeal 15 1.3 .7 Releases nutrients easily
Cow manure 1.5 .85 1.75 The classic tea. Well-
(dried) balanced formula. Medium
availability.
Dried blood 13 3 0 Nutrients dissolve easier
than bloodmeal.
Chicken manure 3.5 1.5 .85 Excellent nutrients.
Wood ashes 0 1.5 7 Water-soluble. Very alkaline
except with acid wood such
as walnut.
Granite dust 0 0 5 Dissolves slowly
Rock phospate 0 33 0 Dissolves gradually.
(phosphorous)
Urine (human, .5 .003 .003 N immediately available.
fresh)

 

Commercial water-soluble fertilizers are available. Fish emul-
sion fertilizer comes in 5-1-1 and 5-2-2 formulas and has been used
by satisfied growers for years.
A grower cannot go wrong changing hydroponic
water/nutrient solutions at least once a month. Once every two
weeks is even better. The old solution could be measured, refor-
Inulated, supplemented and re-used; unless large amounts of fer-
tilizer are used, such as in a large commercial greenhouse, it is not
worth the effort. The old solution may have many nutrients left,
but it may be unbalanced since the plants have drawn specific
chemicals. The water can be used to water houseplants or an out-
door garden, or to enrich a compost pile.
Experienced growers fertilize by eyeing the plants and trying to
determine their needs when minor symptoms of deficiencies become
apparent. If the nutrient added cures the deficiency, the plant
usually responds in apparent ways within one or two days. First the
spread of the symptom stops. With some minerals, plant parts that
were not too badly damaged begin to repair themselves. Plant parts
which were slightly discolored may return to normal. Plant parts
which were severely damaged or suffered from necrosis do not
recover. The most dramatic changes usually appear in new growth.
These parts grow normally. A grower can tell just by plant parts
which part grew before deficiencies were corrected.
Fertilizers should be applied on the low side of recommended

 

rates. Overdoses quickly (within hours) result in wilting and then
death. The symptoms are a sudden wilt with leaves curled under. To
save plants suffering from toxic overdoses of nutrients, plain water
is run through systems to wash out the medium.
Gardens with drainage can be cared for using a method com-
mercial nurseries employ. The plants are watered each time with a
dilute nutrient/water solution, usually 20-25% of full strength. Ex-
cess water runs off. While this method uses more water and
nutrients than other techniqes, it is easy to set up and maintain.
When nutrient deficiencies occur, especially multiple or micro-
nutrient deficiencies, there is a good chance that the minerals are
locked up (precipitated) because of pH. Rather than just adding
more nutrients, the pH must be checked first. If needed, the pH
must be changed by adjusting the water.
If the pH is too high, the water is made a lower pH than it
would ordinarily be; if too low the water is made a higher pH. To
get nutrients to the plant parts immediately, a dilute foliar spray is
used. If the plant does not respond to the foliar spray, it is being
treated with the wrong nutrient.
NUTRIENTS

 

Nitrogen (N)

Marijuana uses more N than any other nutrient. It is used in
the manufacture of chlorophyll. N migrates from old growth to
new, so that a shortage is likely to cause first pale green leaves and
then the yellowing and withering of the lowest leaves as the nitrogen
travels to new buds. Other deficiency symptoms include smaller
leaves, slow growth and a sparse rather than bushy profile.
N-deficient plants respond quickly to fertilization. Within a
day or two, pale leaves become greener and the rate and size of new
growth increases. Good water-soluble sources of nitrogen include
most indoor and hydroponic fertilizers, fish emulsion, and urine,
along with teas made from manures, dried blood or bloodmeal.
There are many organic additives which release N over a period of
time that can be added to the medium at the time of planting. These
include manures, blood, cottonseed meal, hair, fur, or tankage.

 

Phosphorous (P)

P is used by plants in the transfer of light energy to chemical
compounds. It is also used in large quantities for root growth and
flowering. Marijuana uses P mostly during early growth and
flowering.
Fertilizers and nutrient mixes usually supply adequate amounts
of P during growth stages so plants usually do not experience a defi-
ciency. Rock phosphate and bone meal are the organic fertilizers
usually recommended for P deficiency. However they release the
mineral slowly, and are more suited to outdoor gardening than in-

 

doors. They can be added to mediums to supplement soluble fer-
tilizers.
P-deficient plants have small dark green leaves, with red stems
and red veins. The tips of lower leaves sometimes die. Eventually
the entire lower leaves yellow and die. Fertilization affects only new
growth.
Marijuana uses large quantities of P during flowering. Many
fertilizer manufacturers sell mixes high in P specifically for bloom-
ing plants.
Potassium (K)

K is used by plants to regulate carbohydrate metabolism,
chlorophyll synthesis, and protein synthesis as well as to provide
resistance to disease. Adequate amounts of K result in strong, stur-
dy stems while slightly deficient plants often grow taller, thinner
stems. Plants producing seed use large amounts of K. Breeding
plants can be given K supplements to assure well-developed seed.
Symptoms of greater deficiencies are more apparent on the sun
leaves (the large lower leaves). Necrotic patches are found on the
leaf tips and then in patches throughout the leaf. The leaves also
look pale green.
Stems and flowers on some plants turn deep red or purple as a
result of K deficiencies. However, red stems are a genetic
characteristic of some plants so this symptom is not foolproof. Out-
doors, a cold spell can precipitate K and make it unavailable to the
plants, so that almost overnight the flowers and stems turn purple.
K deficiency can be treated with any high-K fertilizer. Old
growth does not absorb the nutrient and will not be affected.
However, new growth will show no signs of deficiency within 2
weeks. For faster results the fertilizer can be used as a foliar spray.
K deficiency does not seem to be a crucial problem. Except for the
few symptoms, plants do not seem to be affected by it.

 

Calcium (Ca)

Ca is used during cell splitting, and to build the cell mem-
branes. Marijuana also stores "excess" Ca for reasons unknown. I
have never seen a case of Ca deficiency in cannabis. Soils and fer-
tilizers usually contain adequate amounts. It should be added to
planting mixes when they are being formulated at the rate of 1
tablespoon per gallon or cup per cubic foot of medium.
Sulfur (S)

S is used by the plant to help regulate metabolism, and as a
constituent of some vitamins, amino acids and proteins. It is plen-
tiful in soil and hydroponic mixes.
S deficiencies are rare. First, new growth yellows and the entire
plant pales.
S deficiencies are easily solved using Epsom salts at the rate of
1 tablespoon per gallon of water.

 

 

 

Magnesium (Mg)

Mg is the central atom in chlorophyll and is also used in pro-
duction of carbohydrates. (Chlorophyll looks just like hemoglobin
in blood, but has a Mg atom. Hemoglobin has an Fe atom). In pot-
ted plants, Mg deficiency is fairly common, since many otherwise
well-balanced fertilizers do not contain it.
Deficiency symptoms start on the lower leaves which turn
yellow, leaving only the veins green. The leaves curl up and die
along the tips and edges. Growing shoots are pale green and, as the
condition continues, turn almost white.
Mg deficiency is easily treated using Epsom salts (MgSO4) at
the rate of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. For faster results, a
foliar spray is used. Once Mg deficiency occurs, Epsom salts should
be added to the solution each time it is changed. Dolomitic
limestone contains large amounts of Mg.

 

Iron (Fe)

Fe deficiency is not uncommon. The growing shoots are pale
or white, leaving only dark green veins. The symptoms appear
similar to Mg deficiencies but Fe deficiencies do not affect the lower
leaves. Fe deficiencies are often the result of acid-alkalinity im-
balances.
Fe deficiencies sometimes occur together with zinc (Zn) and
manganese (Mn) deficiencies so that several symptoms appear
simultaneously.
Deficiencies can be corrected by adjusting the pH, adding rusty
water to the medium, or using a commercial supplement. Fe sup-
plements are sold alone or in a mix combined with Zn and Mn. To
prevent deficiencies, some growers add a few rusting nails to each
container. One grower using a reservoir system added a pound of
nails to the holding tank. The nails added Fe to the nutrient solu-
tion as they rusted. Dilute foliar sprays can be used to treat deficien-
cies.

 

Manganese (Mn)

Symptoms of Mn deficiency include yellowing and dying of
tissue between veins, first appearing on new growth and then
throughout the plant.
Deficiencies are solved using an Fe-Zn-Mn supplement.

 

Zinc (Zn)

Zn deficiency is noted first as yellowing and necrosis of older

 

leaf margins and tips and then as twisted, curled new growth. Treat-
ment with a Fe-Zn-Mn supplement quickly relieves symptoms. A
foliar spray speeds the nutrients to the leaf tissue.

 

Boron (B)

B deficiency is uncommon and does not usually occur indoors.
Symptoms of B deficiency start at the growing tips, which turn
grey or brown and then die. This spreads to the lateral shoots.
A B deficiency is treated by using teaspoon boric acid,
available in pharmacies, added to a gallon of water. One treatment
is usually sufficient.
Mojybdennm (Mo)

Mo is used by plants in the conversion of N to forms that the
plant can use. It is also a constituent of some enzymes. Deficiency is
unusual indoors.
Symptoms start with paleness, then yellowing of middle leaves
which progress to the new shoots and growing tips, which grow
twisted. The early symptoms almost mimic N deficiency. Treatment
with N may temporarily relieve the symptoms but they return
within a few weeks.
Mo is included in hydroponic fertilizers and in some trace ele-
ment mixes. It can be used as a foliar spray.

 

Copper (Cu)

Cu is used by plants in the transfer of electrical charges which
are manipulated by the plant to absorb nutrients and water. It is
also used in the regulation of water content and is a constituent of
some enzymes.
Cu deficiencies are rare and mimic symptoms of overfertiliza-
tion. The leaves are limp and turn under at the edges. Tips and
edges of the leaves may die and whole plant looks wilted.
A fungicide, copper sulfate, (CuSO4) can be used as a foliar
spray to relieve the deficiency.
NUTRIENT ADDITIVES

 

Various additives are often suggested to boost the nutrient
value of the water/nutrient solution. Here are some of them:
WETTING AGENTS. Water holds together through surface
tension, preventing it from dispersing easily over dry surfaces. Wet-
ting agents decrease the surface tension and allow the water to easily
penetrate evenly throughout the medium, preventing dry spots.
Wetting agents are helpful when they are used with fresh medium
and as an occasional additive. Wetting agents should not be used on
a regular basis. They may interfere with plants' ability to grow root
hairs, which are ordinarily found on the roots. They are available at

 

most plant nurseries.
SEAWEED. Washed, ground seaweed contains many trace
elements and minerals used by plants. It may also contain some
hormones or organic nutrients not yet identified.
KELP. Kelp seems to be similar to seaweed in nutrient value.
Proponents claim that it has other, as yet undefined organic
chemicals that boost plant growth.
SEA WATER. Salt water contains many trace elements and
organic compounds. Some hydroponists claim that adding 5-10%
sea water to the nutrient solution prevents trace element problems.
It may be risky.

Chapter Seventeen
Novel Gardens

Many people who would like to grow their own think that they
don't have the space. There are novel techniques that people can
use to grow grass anywhere. Even people with only a closet, crawl
space or just a shelf can grow their own.
The smallest space that can be used is a shelf 15-24 inches high.
First, the space should be prepared as any other garden by making
it reflective, using flat white paint, the dull side of aluminum foil,
or white plastic. Fluorescents are the easiest and best way to il-
luminate the space. About twenty watts per square foot are used, or
two tubes per foot of width. VHO fluorescents can be used to
deliver more light to the system.
Plants can be started in 6 ounce cups or 8 to 16 ounce milk car-
tons placed in trays for easier handling.
With a shelf 3 feet or higher, plants can be grown in larger con-
tainers such as 4 or 6 inch pots, half gallon milk containers trimmed
to hold only a quart.
The plants can be grown vertically only, as they normally
grow, or moved to a horizontal position so that the main stem runs
parallel to the light tubes. The plants' new growth will immediately
face upwards toward the light. One gardener used an attic space on-
ly 4 feet tall. She let the plants grow until they reached 3 feet and
and then turned them on their side. They used more floor space so
she opened up a second bank of lights. At maturity, the plants were
3 feet long and 2 feet tall.
Another grower turned his basement with an 8 foot ceiling into
a duplex growing chamber. Each unit had 3 foot tall plants.
If the plants are to be turned horizontally, then they are best
gr6wn in plastic bags or styrofoam cups so that they can be watered
easily in their new positions. After being turned on the side, a hole
is cut in the new top so the plants can be watered easily.
Some growers have wall space without much depth. This space
can be converted to a growing area very easily. The space is painted
White and a curtain is made so that the space is separated from the
surrounding environment; this will keep light in and offers protec-
tion from nosey guests.
The fluorescents should be placed so that they form a bank
facing the plants. Although the plants naturally spread out, their

 

depth or width can be controlled by training them using stakes or
chicken wire placed on a frame. Wire or plastic netting is attached
to the walls so that there is at least a 1 inch space between the wire
and the wall. Some people build a frame out of 2 x 4's. Twist ties
are used to hold the branches to the frame. Additional light can be
supplied by placing a fluorescent unit on either end of the garden or
along its length.
Growers who have a little more space for their garden, with a
minimum width of 1 or 2 feet, can grow plants without training
them. Fluorescent lights can be used to light the garden by hanging
the light fixture from the top. All sides should be covered with
reflective material. A metal halide lamp mounted on a movable ap-
paratus will help the plants grow even faster so that the entire
garden is illuminated several times during each light cycle.
Some people can spare only a small closet. Closets usually are
designed in one of two shapes: square or long and rectangular. In
any closet up to six feet long the simplest way to grow is by painting
the inside of the closet white and hanging a metal halide light from
the ceiling. Closets with dimensions of S x S or less need only a 400
watt metal halide although they can accomodate 1000 watt lamps.
Larger areas need at least two 400 watt halide lamps.
Thin, rectangular closets are served best by a metal halide unit
mounted on a solar shuttle type device. A fluorescent light unit
hung from above the garden also works well. Additional fluores-
oent tubes can be used to supplement the top lights. It is convenient
to mount them on either end of the hanging fixture if the closet is
long enough so that they do not use potential growing space. A
closet 2 feet by 7 feet might be illuminated by a 400 watt metal
halide on a track, two 6 foot long VHOs or 4 regular fluorescent
tubes hung from the ceiling. A grower might also use 14 screwAn 8
inch circular reflectors mounted on two 2 x 4s and hung above the
garden. About 8 combination 8 and 12 inch circular fixtures will
also light the area.
As the plants grow taller, fluorescent lit gardens will respond to
fluorescent tubes placed on the sides of the garden below the tops of
the plants. This light will help lower buds develop.
One of the main problems inherent in the nature of small
gardens is the lack of ventilation and C02. For good growth rates
the air should be enriched with C02 or provided with a fan for ven-
tilation.

Chapter Eighteen
Containers

To save space, plants can be germinated in small containers
and transplanted to progressively larger ones.
Seeds can be germinated in 2 X 1 inch trays or in peat pellets
and remain in these containers for about one week.
Four inch diameter containers can hold the plants for 2 to 3
weeks without inhibiting growth.
Styrofoam cups weighted at the bottom with sand or gravel so
they don't tip over are convenient germinating containers. If plants

 

are to be germinated at one location and then moved to another
location, styrofoam and other lightweight plastic cups are ideal con-
tainers.
Six ounce cups hold plants for about 7-10 days after germina-
tion. Sixteen ounce cups holds plants 10-20 days, as long as the
plants receive frequent water replenishments.
Half gallon containers can support plants for 25-40 days.
Plants probably grow a bit faster without being transplanted.
However, the saving in space for a multi-crop system or even a
multi4ight system more than compensates for the loss in growth
rate. Figure that each transplanting costs the plants 3-4 days of
growth. Growers using a 2 light system need to use only one lamp
for the first 4-6 weeks the plants are growing. Multi-crop gardens
need to use only a fraction of the space for the first 3 to 8 weeks
after germination.
Some growers sex the plants before either the first or second
transplanting. They find it easier to control the light-darkness cycle
in a small space. Another crop's flowering cycle may coincide with
the seedlings. To sex the small plants, only a small area is required
in the grow room.
A good rule of thumb is that for each two feet of growth, a
half gallon of growing medium is required in a garden in which fer-
tilizers are supplied throughout the growing period. A 2 foot plant
requires a gallon container, a 5 foot plant uses a 2 gallon con-
tainer and a 10 foot plant requires a 5 gallon unit. Of course, plants'
width or depth varies too, so these are approximations. Certainly
there is no harm done in growing a plant in a container larger than
is required. However, growing plants in containers which are too
small delays growth or may even stunt the plants.
Plants growing in soil or compost-based mediums do better in
slightly larger containers. A rule of thumb for them is a 3A gallon
medium for each foot of growth. A 5 foot plant requires a 3 3A
gallon containers.
One grower wrote "I never use more than 4 gallon containers
and have grown plants to 12 feet high with no signs of deficiencies.
I was able to water at 2-3 day intervals. My 3 month old plants
under light were in gallon containers with and without wicks."
This grower always uses small ( gallon) containers for his spring
greenhouse crop.
A plant growing in an organic-based medium such as soil-
compost-manure and additives needs no fertilization if it is given a
large enough container. For a five month growing season, plants in
a rich mixture require 1 to 1 gallons medium per foot. A 5 foot
plant requires a container holding 5-7 gallons.
Containers should have a slight graduation so that plants and
medium can slide out easily.
Plastic containers or pots are the most convenient to use. They
are lightweight, do not break and are inert. Metal containers react
with the nutrients in the solution. Plastic bags are convenient con-
tainers. Grow bags have a square bottom so that they balance easi-
ly. However growers use all kinds of plastic bags for cultivation.

 

Fiber containers are also popular. They are inexpensive, last several
growing seasons and are easy to dispose of.

 

PART IV.
Planting

Chapter Nineteen
When to Plant

Marijuana growers using only artificial light can start at any
time since the grower determines the plant's environment and
stimulates seasonal variations by adjusting the light/darkness
periods.
Gardeners using natural light either as a primary or secondary
source must take the seasons into account. They plant in the spring
- from April through June. These plants will be harvested between
September and November and no artificial light may be needed as
long as there is plenty of direct sunshine. Supplemental artificial
light may help the plants to maturity in the fall, when the sun's in-
tensity declines and there are overcast days. The angle of the sun's
path changes over the season too. Areas may receive indirect sun
during part of the growing season. In overcast areas, and even sun-
ny places receiving direct sunlight, 4-6 hours of supplemental metal
halide light during the brightest part of the day is all that is needed
during September/October to help the buds mature. One lamp will
cover about 100 square feet or an area 10 by 10 feet.
Growers using natural light are not restricted to one season. It
is feasible to grow 3 or 4 crops a year using supplemental light. In
early October, before the plants are harvested, seeds are started in a
separate area. Since little room is needed for the first few weeks,
they can be germinated on a shelf. In addition to natural light, the
plants should get a minimum of 6 hours of artificial light per day at
the rate of about 10 watts per square foot.
For fastest growth, the plants should receive 24 hours of light a
day. Seedlings may receive light only during normal day light hours
except that they require an interruption of the night cycle so they do
not go into the flowering stage prematurely. If metal halide lamps
are being used, a separate light system should be installed with in-
candescent or fluorescent lights on a timer so that the seedlings do
not have a long period of uninterrupted darkness. One 60 watt in-
candescent bulb or one 22 watt fluorescent tube is used per square
yard (3 by 3 feet). The bulbs can be flashed on for a few minutes us-
ing a multi-cycle timer during the middle of the dark period.
Gardeners with large spaces sometimes stagger the timing of the
night lights.
Incandescent bulbs are not very efficient, but they provide
enough light to prevent flowering, they are easy and inexpensive to
set up and maintain, and they light up almost immediately. In addi-
tion, they emit a high percentage of red light, which is part of the
spectrum used by plants to regulate photoperiod responses. Metal
halides require about 10 minutes to attain full brightness. Metal
halide ballasts wear out faster when they are turned on and off a
lot, so it is cheaper to flash incandescents.

 

In late December, the incandescents are turned off so that they
no longer interrupt the night cycle. Within a week or two the plants
will begin to flower. They will be ready to harvest in 6 or 8 weeks.
At the same time that the incandescents are turned off the
winter crop, seeds are started for the spring crop. They are kept on
the interrupted night regimen until late winter, around March 1-10.
The plants will begin to flower and be ready in late May and early
June. The spring crop should be planted with short season plants so
that they do not revert back to vegetative growth as the days get
longer. Long season varieties are more likely to revert.
After the flowers are formed, the spring crop plants will revert
back to vegetative growth. New leaves will appear and the plant will
show renewed vigor. The plant can be harvested again in the fall, or
new seeds can be germinated for the fall crop.
One grower reported that he makes full use of his greenhouse.
He starts his plants indoors in late November and starts the flower-
ing cycle in the beginning of February. The plants are ripe by the
end of April, then he lets the plants go back into vegetative growth
for a month and a half. Then he starts to shade them again and
harvests in late August. Next he puts out new, month-old, foot-high
plants. He lets them grow under natural light, but breaks the
darkness cycle using incandescent lights. In mid-September he shuts
the lights off, and the plants mature in early November.

Chapter Twenty
Planting

Growers usually figure that º - V3 of the seeds they plant reach
maturity. Usually 40-50% of the plants are male. The best females
are chosen for continued growth during early growth but after the
plants have indicated.
Most fresh seeds have a very high germination rate, usually
about 95%. However, older seeds (more than 2 or 3 years old) or
seeds imported from foreign countries where they undergo stress
during curing, may not fare so well. They have a higher percentage
of weak plants and they are subject to disease. Sometimes virtually
all of the seeds from a batch of imported marijuana are dead.
Intact seeds which are dark brown or grey have the best chance
of germinating. Seeds which are whitish, light tan or cracked are
probably not viable. Most guide books suggest that growers plant
the largest seeds in a batch, but the size of the seed is genetically as
well as environmentally determined and does not necessarily relate
to its germination potential.
If the seeds are fresh, they can be planted one per container.
They may be planted in the container in which they are to grow to
maturity or in a smaller vessel. Some growers find it more conve-
nient to plant the seeds in small containers to save space during ear-
ly growth.
Seeds with a dubious chance of germination are best started in
tissue and then placed in pots as they show signs of life. The wet
tissue, napkin or sponge is placed in a container or on a plate, and is
covered with plastic wrap. The seeds are checked every 12 hours for

 

germination. As soon as the root cracks the skin, the seedling is
planted with the emerging point down. Seeds can also be started in
tray pots so that large numbers can be tried without using much
space.
Seedlings and cuttings can be placed in the refrigerator -- not
the freezer - to slow down their growth if it is inconvenient to
plant at the moment. They can be stored in the vegetable crisper of
the refrigerator for a week or more, in a moistened plastic bag. The
temperature should be kept above 40 degrees to prevent cell
damage. This does not adversely affect the plant's later growth, and
in fact, is an easy way to harden the plants up that are placed out-
doors later.
Seeds should be sown º - inch deep, covered, and then the
medium should be patted down. Seeds sown in light soil or planting
mixes can be sown one inch deep. Some growers treat the seeds with
B1 or the rooting hormone, indolebutyric acid, which is sold as an
ingredient in many rooting solutions. Seeds germinated in covered
trays or mini-greenhouses grow long, spindly stems unless the top is
removed as the first seedlings pop the soil. The medium must be
kept moist.
One way to make sure that the medium remains moist is to
plant the seeds in containers or nursery trays which have been
modified to use the wick system. To modify a tray, nylon cord is
run horizontally through holes in each of the small growing spaces.
The cord should extend downward into a leakproof holder. (Trays
come with 2 kinds of holders. Some have drainage holes and some
are solid.) The tray is raised from the holder using a couple of pieces
of 2 x 4's running lengthwise which keep tray holders filled with
water. The tray will remain moist as long as there is water in the
bottom. If the tray is to be moved, it is placed in a cardboard box or
over a piece of plywood before being filled with water.
The light is kept on continuously until the seeds germinate.
Most seeds germinate in 3-14 days. Usually fresh seeds germinate
faster than old ones.

Chapter Twenty-One
Early Growth

Once the seeds germinate, the light is kept on for 18-24 hours a
day. Some growers think that there is no significant difference in
growth rates between plants growing under 24 hours of light a day
(continuous lighting) and those growing under an 18 hour light
regimen. In controlled experiments there was a significant dif-
ference: the plants get off to a faster start given continuous lighting.
Some growers cut the light schedule down to conserve electricity.
Plants grown under continuous light which are moved out-
doors occasionally experience shock. This may be caused by the in-
tense light they receive from the sun combined with the shortened
day length.
Another popular lighting regimen starts with continuous light.
A week after germination the light is cut back one hour so that the
regimen consists of 23 hours on and one hour off. The following

 

week the lights are cut back again, to 22 hours of light and 2 of
darkness. Each week thereafter, the lights are cut back another
hour until the light is on only 12 hours a day.
Whenever a light is to be turned on and off periodically, it is
best to use a timer to regulate it. The timer is never late, always
remembers, and never goes on vacation.
Plants are at their most vulnerable stage immediately after they
germinate. They are susceptible to stem rot, which is usually a
fungal infection and occurs frequently when the medium is too
moist and the roots do not have access to oxygen. On the other
hand, if the medium dries out, the plant may be damaged from
dehydration.
Mice, pet birds, dogs and cats have all been noted to have a
fondness for marijuana sprouts and the young plants.
Seedlings given too little light or too warm an environment
stretch their stems. The long slender shoot subsequently has pro-
blems staying upright - it becomes top-heavy. These plants should
be supported using cotton swabs, toothpicks or thin bamboo
stakes.
Most seedlings survive the pitfalls and within a matter of weeks
develop from seedlings into vigorous young plants. During marl
juana's early growth, the plant needs little special care. It will have
adjusted to its environment and grow at the fastest pace the limiting
factors allow.
If the plants are in a soilless mix without additives they should
be fertilized as soon as they germinate. Plants grown in large con-
tainers with soil or a mix with nutrients can usually go for several
weeks to a month with no supplements.
Within a few weeks the plants grow quite a bit and gardeners
thin the plants. If possible, this is not done until the plants indicate
sex, so that the grower has a better idea of how many plants to
eliminate. The most vigorous, healthy plants are chosen.

Chapter Twenty-Two
Watering

Growers using passive hydroponic systems only have to water
by adding it to the reservoirs, to replenish water lost to evaporation
and transpiration.
Growers using active hydroponic systems, including drip emit-
ters, adjust the watering cycle so that the medium never loses its
moisture. Mediums for active systems are drained well so that the
roots come into contact with air. Each medium retains a different
volume of water. The plant's size and growth stage, the
temperature, and the humidity also affect the amount of water us-
ed. Cycles might start at once every six hours of light during the ear-
ly stages and increase as the plants require it.
Plants growing in soil or soiless mixes should be watered
before the soil dries out but only after the top layer has lost a bit of
its moisture. If the mixture is not soggy and drains well, over-
watering is not a problem. Excess moisture drains.
Plants have problems with some soils not because they are too

 

wet, but because the soils have too fine a texture and do not hold air
in pockets between the particles. As long as a medium allows both
air and water to penetrate, the roots will remain healthy. If the
roots do not have access to air, they grow weak and are attacked by
bacteria.
Plant leaves catch dust so it is a good idea to spray the plants
every 2-4 weeks with a fine spray, letting the water drip off the
leaves. Do this before the beginning of the light cycle so the leaves
dry off completely, and the glass of the lights is not hot in case
water touches it.
Some growers spray the leaves weekly with a dilute fertilizer
solution. The leaf has pores through which the nutrients can be ab-
sorbed and utilized. They claim that the growth rate is increased. In
various tests with legal plants, researchers have affirmed that plants
which are foliar-fed do grow faster.
Once the flowers start forming, the plants should not be
sprayed because the flowers are susceptible to mold and infections
which are promoted by excess humidity.

 

 

Chapter Twenty-Three

Pruning

There are probably more theories about pruning and its effect
on crop yield as there are cultivators. Pruning theories are com-
plicated by the many varieties of marijuana, which have different
branching patterns and growing habits.
Indicas tend to grow naturally with little branching. Most of
their energy is used for the central main bud which may develop to a
diameter of 3 to 4 inches. Branches are short and compact.
Mexicans, Colombians, and Africans usually grow in a conical
pattern often likened to a Christmas tree. They develop a large cen-
tral bud. The peripheral buds and branches can also grow quite
large.
Plants regulate their growth patterns using auxins, which are
hormones. One auxin is produced by the tallest growing tip of the
plant. This inhibits other branches from growing as fast. If the top
bud is removed, the two branches below grow larger, in effect
becoming the main stem. They produce the growth-inhibiting aux-
in; however, they have less of an inhibitory effect on the lower
branches.
Growers are often obsessed with the yield per plant. This
outlook developed because of the surreptitious nature of marijuana
cultivation. Farmers and gardeners can grow only a few plants so
they want to get the best possible yield from them. Traditional
farmers are more concerned with the yield per unit of space. Since
indoor gardeners have a limited space, total yield of high quality
marijuana should be of more concern than the yield per plant.
Growers have done experiments showing that some pruning
techniques effectively increase the yield of some plants. However,
the pruned plants usually occupy more space than plants which are
left unpruned, so that there may be no increase in yield per unit of
space.
To make a plant bushy it is pinched (the growing shoot is
removed) at the second or third set of leaves and again at the sixth,
seventh or eighth internode. Sometimes the plants are pinched once
or twice more. This encourages the plants to spread out rather than
to grow vertically.
Plant branching can be controlled by bending instead of cut-
ting. If the top branch is bent so that it is lower than the side bran-
ches, the side shoots will start to grow as if the top branch was cut
because the branch highest from the ground produces the growth
auxin. If the top branch is released so that it can grow upward again
it starts to dominate again, but the side branches still have more
growth than they ordinarily would have had. Top branches can also
be "trained" to grow horizontally so that the primary bud is expos-
ed to more light. The bud will grow larger than normal. Bamboo
stakes, twist-ties and wire can be used for training.
One grower trained his plants using a technique ordinarily used
by grape growers. He built a frame made of a single vertical 2 x 3

 

and nailed 4 foot long 2 x l's every 9 inches along its length so that
the horizontal boards stretched 2 feet in either direction. Then he
trained the branches to the frame. Each branch was stretched
horizontally and the plant had virtually no depth. This increased
the number of plants he could grow since each plant took less space.
On the next crop he used the same system with most of his
plants but set up a chickenwire fence on a frame about 6 inches
from one wall. As the plants grew he trained them to the fence.
A grower in Mendocino pinches the plants at the fourth node
and then allows only four branches to develop. She removes all side
shoots. Each plant grows four giant buds and takes relatively little
space.
Plants which are only a foot or two tall when they were put in-
to the flowering cycle may not have developed extensive branching.
They may grow into plants with only one bud; the main stem
becomes swollen with flowers but there is little branching. These
plants require only about a square foot of floor space. Although
their individual yields are low, the plants have a good yield-per-
space unit. A gardener with larger plants modified this technique by
trimming off all side shoots and spacing the one-buds close together
to maximize yield.
A greenhouse grower grew plants to about three feet and then
clipped the tops. Each plant developed four top stems in a couple of
weeks. Then he turned the light cycle down to induce flowering.
A garden in the midwest featured plants which were trained to
5 foot tomato trellises (the metal cones). The grower trained the
branches around the cone and tied them to the support using twist-
ties.
Plants which are several feet tall can also be turned on their
sides as was discussed in the chapter on Novel Gardens. The plant
immediately switches its growth pattern so that the stems grow ver-
tically, against the gravity and towards the light.
Most growers agree that plants should not be clipped once they
are in a pre-flowering stage. By experience they know that this may
seriously decrease yield.
Plants may grow at an uneven pace in the garden. There are
several reasons for this. The plants may differ genetically and be in-
clined to grow at different rates, or there may be an uneven
distribution of light in the garden so that some plants receive more
energy to fuel their growth. Plants in single containers can be mov-
ed around the garden to even out the amount of light they get and
to deal with the problem of height. When the taller plants are plac-
ed at the periphery of the garden, light is not blocked from the
shorter ones. Taller plants need not be clipped. Instead, their tops
can be bent and snapped so that the stem is horizontal near the top.
This technique is used as far as 2 feet below the top of the stem. The
bent tops usually need to be supported. It is not hard to tie one end
of a bamboo stake to the main stem and the other end to the top, so
that a triangle is formed.
Contrary to myth, sun leaves should not be removed from the
plant except late in life when they often yellow. These leaves are lit-

 

tle sugar factories which turn the light energy into chemical energy
which is stored and used later. When the leaf is removed, the plant
loses a source of energy and its rate of growth slows. If you don't
believe this, try an experiment. Find any type of plant which has
two sun leaves opposite each other with a small branch growing
from either side. Remove one of the leaves and see which side
branch develops faster.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Pests

When plants are grown outdoors, pests and insects are ever-
present but most of the time they are kept in check by the forces of
nature. The wind, rain, changes in temperature, predators and
diseases work as a system of checks and balances to keep the
populations down despite a phenomenally high theoretical
reproductive capacity.
Indoors, invading plant pests discover an ideal environment,
with few of the hazards they would find outdoors and with an
abundance of food. Within a few weeks of invasion the implica-
tions of the pest's theoretical multiplication rate are evident and the
plants may suffer the ravages of the attack. For this reason, any
pest invasion is treated very seriously and quickly.
Every insect invasion to the garden has a cause. Most of the
time, the pests were carried into the garden by the gardener. Less
frequently, pests enter through the windows, cracks, or through the
ventilation system. Cautious growers never go into the indoor
garden after working outdoors or being in an outdoor garden. They
never work on healthy plants after being around or working on in-
fected ones. In some commercial greenhouses, workers change
clothing in a dressing room before entering from outside.
One grower keeps a plastic dishpan filled with salt water at the
entrance to his grow room. As he enters the room he dips the soles
of each shoe in the water. This kills any pests which might be riding
on the undersides of his shoes.
To get a close look at insects, it is a good idea to get a
photographer's loop magnifying glass or a portable low-power
microscope. Even the most inexpensive ones are adequate.
There are six pests that are most likely to attack marijuana in-
doors: aphids, mealybugs, mites, whiteflies, scale, and caterpillars.
A few others sometimes invade greenhouses. These include cater-
pillars, cutworms, grasshoppers and leafhoppers.
APHIDS

 

Aphids are usually found on the undersides of leaves and on
stems, though they are sometimes found on the leaf tops. The
adults are about 1/32 to 1/16 of an inch long and are oval, almost egg-
shaped. They have two protrusions from their rear which look like
pipes and may or may not have wings. They are usually found in
dense colonies with an adult surrounded by a cluster of young.

 

They are usually pale green or yellow, but sometimes are brown,
black or red. They molt leaving a white shell. They secrete
"honeydew" which is shiny and sticky and is found on infested
foliage. Honeydew is a concentrate of the sugars the animal has
sucked out of the plant and discarded in its search for protein.
Aphids are frequently found together with ants which farm them
for their honeydew by carrying them from plant to plant.
Infested plants weaken from the insects' constant sucking of
sap which they eat by penetrating the deep tissue. Older leaves curl
and younger ones grow deformed. Mold sometimes forms on the
honeydew. Within weeks the plant may wither. Aphids are carriers
of molds and viruses.
Indoors, aphids reproduce parthenogenetically; that is, all the
insects are females and they can reproduce without being fertilized.
They bear live young, which may actually carry embryos of their
own before they are born. They can reproduce when they are 6 days
old.
Luckily, aphids are not difficult to control. Action is taken at
the first sign of infection. First, the garden is checked for ants. Any
colonies are eliminated using ant bait, ant stakes or boric acid.
Then all visible aphids are wiped off the plants using a sponge
and soapy water, a soapy water spray or insecticide. A soapy water
spray is made by mixing 1 tablespoons Ivory Snow Flakes or any
other soap without detergent in a gallon of water. Some growers
reported success using Dr. Bronner's Eucalyptus or Mint liquid
soaps (these are often found in health food stores) at the rate of I
tablespoon per gallon. This will eliminate most of the pests so that
the grower has some breathing space. However, even the most
thorough spraying or sponging does not eliminate all of the pests,
and since they reproduce parthenogenetically, even one remaining
insect can restart the colony.
If the plants are not flowering, then spray can be used every 2
or 3 days for several weeks. Thorough sprayings may eventually
destroy the colony. They certainly keep it in check.
Another convenient spray is available commercially.
Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide found in chrysanthemum-family
plants. It has not been found harmful to warm-blooded animals but
is toxic to aphids, among other insects. Pyrethrum may be purchas-
ed as a powder, a liquid concentrate, in a pump or aerosal spray.
Usually growers with small gardens choose the aerosols for conve-
nience, while those with large gardens find the concentrates or
powders much less expensive.
Some benign insects like to eat aphids and are convenient to
use in a greenhouse or grow-room situation. Ladybugs and green
lacewings are predators which eat aphids. They can be purchased
commercially from insectiaries. These insects also go through a
rapid lifecycle and may eat hundreds of aphids as they grow to
adults. The insects come with instructions for their use.
People are sometimes a little queasy about bringing beneficial
insects indoors because they are afraid they will escape into un-
wanted areas. However, for the most part these insects stay where

 

they belong as long as there is food for them to eat. Adult
beneficials sometimes fly directly into metal halide lamps and die
instantly. One grower placed a glass reflector around his lamps. The
trick is to get the adult beneficials to lay eggs because the predators
are most voracious during their immature stages. Given enough
food (aphids) this presents no problem. Once the predators become
established they keep the pest population at a negligible level, but
never eliminate their source of food.
MEALYBUGS

 

Mealybugs are light-colored insects which exude a white, waxy
cottony-looking substance in which they nestle or which covers
their body. They are usually found on the underside of the leaves
and in the joints between the leaves and stems. The adults are from
1/16 to 1/6 inch long. They suck juices from the plant and exude
honeydew. Their breeding rate is much slower than many other
pests; a generation takes a month or more.
A small mealybug infection may be eliminated by using a
sponge to wipe the creatures off the plants. They can also be
destroyed using a cotton swab dabbed in alcohol, which kills them
instantly. More serious infestations may be controlled using a soapy
water solution or pyrethrum. As well as eating aphids, green lace-
wings also eat mealybugs.
MITES

 

Mites are the most damaging pest that can enter a garden. They
are not insects, but an arachnid, which is the class of animals that
include spiders. Mites are tiny and may not be noticed until they
have developed into a serious infestation. There are many species of
mites. However the one most likely to attack the garden is the 2
spotted mite, which has two spots on its back which can be seen
under a magnifying glass.
The first indication that a grower may have mites is seeing pin-
point yellow spots on fan leaves. These spots are located above the
points where the mites have pierced the tissue to suck out the plant
juices. Mites are very small, measuring only 3-6 thousandths of an
inch. They look like small dots colored black, red or brown. Mites'
maturity and reproductive rates are affected by temperature. A
female lays about 100 eggs during her lifetime, but at 60 degrees she
produces 20 offspring, at 70 degrees she and her offspring number
13,000, and at 80 degrees she represents a potential 13,000,000 in-
dividuals over a single month. Under ideal conditions mites
reproduce a week after hatching.
As the mite population rises, the plants weaken. Infested leaves
curl under and spider4ike webbing is spun which covers the plants
and is used by the pests to move from plant to plant. Mites also
walk down stems, across medium and across dry space in search of
new plants to colonize. Besides the leaf spots and curling, infested
leaves sometimes also bronze and/or develop necrotic brown spots.

 

Most growers do not notice mites until the infestation has been
well established and there has been damage to plants. The situation
calls for immediate action. First, after careful examination, infested
plants are separated from the uninfested ones. Lightly infested
plants may be separated from heavily damaged plants. (Physical
barriers such as sticky tape are placed around the heavily infested
plants, pots or the garden perimeter to prevent migration of mites.
Tops are separated so that the mites cannot walk from plant to
plant via foliage.)
Mites suck juices, so they must evaporate large quantities of
water. This is easier for them to do in a dry environment. Humid
environments slow down their metabolism, life span, and reproduc-
tive rate.
Mites may be controlled somewhat by lowering the
temperature, thus slowing the insects' life processes considerably.
Even if this is done only during the dark cycle, when it is easier to
lower temperatures, the progression rate of the infection is slowed
significantly.
Mites tend to congregate on the leaves rather than the buds,
although, as their populations increase, they can start colonizing
the buds as well. They can be washed off the leaves using a strong
water spray. Growers sometimes use a soapy water spray from a
small gauge directional nozzle. Medium pressure can be used. The
floor and container surfaces are covered with newspaper or other
throwaways so that the mites can be removed by the spray. Buds
within 2 weeks of harvest should not be sprayed with soap. Other
possible sprays include wetting agents, which interfere with the
mites' water-holding ability, flour or starch ( cup flour, cup
milk in a gallon of water) which trap and kill the mites as the mix-
ture dries into a thin film, and an anti-transpiration product, "Wilt-
Pruf"Æ which is sold in many nurseries. It is a chemical which is
used to slow down the rate at which plants lose water through their
leaves and works by partially coating the leaf's pores. It is frequent-
ly used when transplanting and during dry, hot, or sunny periods.
Wilt-Pruf also traps mites in its thin film. When these products are
used, individual leaves are sprayed using a hand trigger bottle.
Some growers "homebrew" a miticide using common spices
such as garlic, cayenne pepper, onion, cloves or their combinations
soaked in water. Recipes call for either grinding the raw spices or
boiling them. One gallon of water is mixed with one or more of the
following: - 1 ounce garlic, 2-3 ounces of onion, ounce cloves,
-i ounce cayenne pepper. Before spraying all the plants with a
homebrew, try it on a few leaves to make sure that the plants are
not adversely affected and the mites are killed.
Insectiaries advertise predatory mites for the control of mites.
There are several varieties that attack two-spotted mites. Choice of
variety of predator mites depends on greenhouse temperature.
Some growers have reported great success using these predators,
while others report that they have been unsuccessful at getting them
to take. When they get established they are effective, but sometimes
they seem to disappear in the marijuana garden never to be seen

 

again. Meanwhile, the mites continue to multiply at a geometric
rate.
On May 23rd, 1986, the New York Times reported on
Kelthane, the popular miticide and insecticide. Growers have often
reported its effectiveness in eliminating pest problems. However, it
turns out that one of the reasons for its effectiveness is that it con-
tains DDT. You say that can't be: DDT was banned from use in
1972. Rohm & Haas Company of Philadelphia, which distributes
the product manufactured overseas, has agreed to reduce the level
in this product from 2.5% to 1/10th of 1 percent on December 31,
1988. Yes, that's right, 1988. The stocks will be in stores well after
that date. DDT damages the reproductive systems and nervous
systems of mammals. For your own sake, please don't use Keithane
or any other miticide-insecticide-containing dicofol.
Since mites have a short regeneration cycle, for sprays to be ef-
fective they must be used often enough to kill each new generation
before it has a chance to reproduce. To prevent buildup of
resistance, different sprays are alternated. Several growers have
reported eliminating mites using "Holiday Foggers" 3 times a day
at S day intervals.
Smart growers cover their bodies and wear respirators when
working with harmful chemicals. Exposed clothing and underwear
is removed immediately after the operation is ended and is washed
separately or disposed of. One grower used disposable paper jump
suits he found at an army surplus store. Another used clothing one
step away from the garbage. After removing clothing, the exposed
individual showers well with strong soap.
Mites are difficult to eliminate or even control, but it can be
done. The means of control depends upon the stage of the plants'
life cycle and the degree of infestation. Gardens with a minor infec-
tion which are near harvest may be protected simply by lowering the
temperature, or by using a quick knockdown spray.
Growers sometimes find it more convenient to destroy young
plants with a mite infection than to try to combat it. Plants which
are nearing the end of the vegetative stage may never flower well if
the infection is severe, so that growers try to keep the population
down on plants older than 2 months. Growers sometimes start the
flowering cycle early when they detect mites. That way
temperatures are lowered because of the longer darkness cycle, and
the mites do not have as long to build up their population.
WHITEFLIES

 

Whiteflies look like flies except that they are all white. The
adults are about 1/16th of an inch long. They can be seen flying off
foliage when it is shaken. They lay large white eggs which can be
seen on the undersides of the leaves they inhabit. They suck sap
from the leaves and leave spots of honeydew. Whiteflies spread
black soot, molds and other diseases.
Whiteflies undergo four stages of development once they hatch
from eggs. Each stage is called an instar. Their life cycle is strictly

 

regulated by temperature. As temperatures increase from 55 to 85
degrees the number of days from egg to adult decreases from 103 to
18 days. However, the adult's life span also decreases. At 55
degrees, the adult lives over 60 days. At 85 degrees it lives fewer
than 7 days. At 65 degrees it produces more than 300 eggs over its
lifespan, at the rate of more than 8 eggs per day. As the temperature
increases, total egg production decreases to less than 30 and the rate
of production goes down to fewer than 5 per day.
The whitefly population must increase to tremendous numbers
before there is any apparent damage to plants directly. However,
the honeydew dropped by whiteflies becomes an incubation spot
for mold.
Whiteflies are easy to control. If there only seem to be a few,
they can be pinched off the leaves by hand. Their metabolism is a
factor of temperature; at cool temperatures in the low 60's, they are
sluggish and easily trapped. They are susceptible to spice sprays and
pyrethrum, but the easiest way to deal with them is using Encarsia
Formosa, the whitefly parasite. This small non-social wasp is about
1/32nd of an inch long, about the same size as a mite. It lives entirely
on whiteflies. The adults eat the eggs and the first and second in-
star. They lay their eggs in the third instar. As the wasp embryo
develops in the whitefly instar, the egg, which was a pale green or
tan, turns black. Encarsia formosa development is also regulated by
temperature. At 55 degrees it takes 30 days to reach adulthood, but
at 85 degrees it requires only about 10 days. At 65 degrees the adults
live about 30 days, but only 8 days at 80 degrees. However the
number of eggs laid by females, about 30, does not vary much.
They just lay them over a shorter period of time.
Insectiaries usually suggest that whitefly parasites be released
several times over a 3 week period allowing several generations of
whitefly instars to be parasitized, assuring control of the problem
quickly. However, experienced growers have found that only 1
release is required, although control takes a while longer. By the
third generation the parasites achieve virtual control of the plant
eaters and while they do not eliminate them, they keep the
whiteflies down to a negligible level and prevent large outbreaks
from occurring.
Whiteflies are attracted to certain shades of yellow. Nurseries
sell cards which are either pre-glued or which can be coated with oil.
Any whiteflies which fly to the card are trapped.
One grower uses a vacuum cleaner to collect whiteflies from his
plants. He says that it is best to do this early in the morning when it
is still cool and the insects are sluggish. He says that the vacuum is
also effective against aphids.

SCALE

Scale are insects which attack the stems and undersides of
leaves. There are two kinds of scale: armored and soft-bodied. Ar-
mored scale are 1/6-1/12 inch long and are usually brown, grey or red-
dish. They secrete a waxy or cottony substance which shapes a shell

 

to protect their bodies. Soft-bodied scale are usually brown, black
or mottled. Their skin is smooth and shiny. Both types are mobile
only when they are young. Usually they lose their legs after the first
or second moult. The males regain their legs as well as wings at the
final moult and spend their short adult life in search of females to
inseminate.
Scale females can produce up to 5,000 offspring over a
lifetime, but they have a relatively slow rate of growth so that it
takes a while for them to build a large population.
Scale suck sap, leaving little residue. Sometimes immature
scale, which are mobile, excrete honeydew. Their saliva may be tox-
ic to the plant. Leaves or branches will turn yellow and die.
Scale often look like nodes or blemishes on a stem. They are
easily scraped off the plant using fingernails.
They do not often attack marijuana; however, some cases have
been reported.
There are number of effective methods of controlling scale.
Since they reproduce slowly, scraping the adults off the leaves and
stems may be an effective control. Garlic-cayenne sprays may
eliminate them. Finally, there are a number of parasites which at-
tack the insects in their immature stages. Predators are often
specific to a particular variety of scale, so it's best to send samples
of the infection to insectiaries when buying them.
Scale can also be killed using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.

CATERPILLARS

Caterpillars are a threat to all gardens. A single moth or but-
terfly can lay hundreds of eggs, and caterpillars have an enormous
appetite. They can devastate a garden of sprouts overnight and can
inflict severe damage to mature plants. Species vary as to tastes and
habits. Some just munch on the leaves or buds, while others bore
into the stems and eat out the plant's stem.
The caterpillars which remain on the surface are the easiest to
locate and destroy. Once a caterpillar has burrowed into the plant it
can be very difficult to find. Sometimes they can be located by
looking for the characteristic burrowing hole at its usual location.
There are several ways to eliminate caterpillars. Handpicking
can be very effective in a small garden. There are several natural in-
secticides which seem to be harmless to warm-blooded animals and
which are lethal to these chewing pests. Bacillus thurengensis (BT) is
a bacteria which causes plague in caterpillars. It is available com-
mercially as a powder or spray and can eliminate pests within days.
It remains effective until washed away by water. Pyrethrum is also
effective against caterpillars. This insecticide is derived from the
pyrethrum plant, a relative of the chrysanthemum.
When caterpillars have already burrowed into the stem, they
must be sought out and destroyed or they will kill the plant. Some
growers try to locate the burrow holes and then use a wire or flexi-
ble tool to squash the insect in its path. The stems can also be split
with a sharp, clean knife or razor and then after the pest is killed the

 

stem is sealed with grafting wax and bound with tape and reinforc-
ed with a brace.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Flowering

Earlier in the book (Chapter 3), we described how marijuana
determines when it should flower. It senses the onset of "Fall" by
measuring the number of hours of uninterrupted darkness. When
the plant senses a period of uninterrupted darkness long enough
each evening, it triggers into flowering.
The period of darkness required varies by variety. Equatorial
varieties need a longer period of darkness than indica or Southern
African varieties because the equatorial growing season is longer
and equatorial plants have shorter days. Equatorial sativas flower
when the dark cycle increases to 12 hours or more. Most indicas
flower at between 12 to 16 hours of light, 8 to 12 hours of uninter-
rupted darkness.
Male marijuana plants flower before the females and are only
partially light-sensitive. In some varieties the males seem to flower
after a few months of growth, regardless of lighting conditions.
Since female marijuana flowering is regulated by light, a
cultivator growing under lights can put the garden into flowering
with the flick of the timer. Once the plants start to bloom, they will
grow another foot or two in height. The plants should be set into
flowering before they get too tall.
G?owers use several lighting regimens to start the plants
flowering. Growers using continuous light or another long day cycle
can cut the light back to flowering cycle with no intermediate steps.
The plants do not suffer from shock or exhibit unusual growth.
Some growers do introduce the cycle more gently, cutting the light
back to flowering cycle over several weeks.
After 4 to 5 weeks of heavy flowering, some growers set the
light back another hour to simulate the shortening season. Growers
cut the light back another hour after another month. This may be
especially helpful in finishing some tropical varieties, which do not
reach maturity in their native lands until the middle of the short day
season (there is no winter in the tropics).

Chapter Twenty-Six

Sinsemilla and Sexing

The word "sinsemilla" is derived from the two Spanish words
''sin'' and ''semilla'' meaning respectively ''without'' and ''seed''.
Connoisseurs prize sinsemilla partly because the marijuana has a
greater potency and a more intense aroma than seeded marijuana,
and partly because of its enhanced appearance.
In order for the flowers to ripen unseeded, they must remain
unpollinated (unfertilized). Male and female flowers usually appear
on separate plants. The males are removed from the space as soon
as they are recognized. This should be done early in the male plants'

 

development, before any large flower clusters appear. Even a single
open flower cluster can release enough pollen to fertilize thousands
of female flowers.
Males can be detected early by carefully examining the space
where the leaf joins the stem (internode). Before the plant begins to
develop flower clusters, a single male or female flower will
sometimes grow in the internode. A male flower will have what
looks like a bulb growing from a thin stem, and at the bulb's end
there will be a curved protrusion that looks something like a little
bent finger. A female flower will usually have two antennae-like
protrusions jutting out. Sometimes a sexually indistinguishable
flower appears. _____________ _____________________
The females' leaves begin to grow closer together, forming a
strong stem which will hold the clusters of flowers and later the
ripening seed.
Any plants which have not indicated are watched closely, and
the females are watched for any signs of hermaphrodites. These
plants are primarily female but they produce some fertile male
flowers. This may consist of only a few clusters, an entire branch
or, occasionally, males - throughout the plant. These plants are
dangerous in any sinsemilla garden. Even a small cluster of flowers
can ruin entire colas of buds. Either the male flowers should be
removed and the plant checked daily, or the plant should be remov-
ed from the garden, which is the safest course of action.
There are several methods used to sex plants early. Since mari-
juana flowering is regulated by the number of hours of uninter-
rupted darkness, it is easy to manipulate the plant's flowering cycle.
Young plants can be forced to indicate by putting them under a
long night regimen. The plants will begin to indicate within a few
days and after 10 days, fast growing plants should have clearly
defined flowers. Once the plants indicate, the males can be
separated from the females, and the garden can be returned to the
vegetative growth cycle simply by changing the light regimen back
to the long day/short night.
Putting the plants through an abbreviated flowering cycle sets
them back several weeks. First, their growth is stopped and then it
takes them some time to start growing again. Some growers feel
that the plants lose a bit of vigor in the process. To eliminate
stresses in the garden, a clone can be taken of each plant.
The clones should be tagged to denote plant of origin and then
placed in water or rooting medium under a long night/short day en-
vironment. The clones will have the same sex as its clone parent, so
the clone parent's sex is determined before the plant is out of the
vegetative stage. The female clones can be continued under the
flowering regimen and will provide a taste of the clone-parent's
future buds.
Within a few days of the change in the light regimen to a long
night, the plants begin to show changes in their growth patterns.
First, their rate of growth, which might be as much as 2 inches a day
during the previous cycle, slows and stops. Next the plants begin to
differentiate. The males elongate upon ripening so that their flower

 

sacks, which contain copious amounts of pollen, tower above the
females. Marijuana is normally wind-pollinated.
The females start to grow stocky stems with shorter nodes be-
tween the leaves. The number of fingers on the leaves decreases and
the plant may revert from opposite leaves to a pattern of leaves
alternating on the stem.
Within a few weeks, large numbers of pistils (the white anten-
nae) will form along the stem and on the tops of the branches. If the
flowers are fertilized, the pistils will start to dry up, beginning at the
tips. Each fertilized flower produces a seed. Such formation, which
commences upon fertilization, is apparent by the third day. The
ovary at the base of the pistil swells as the new seed grows inside of
it.
As long as most flowers remain unfertilized, the plant con-
tinues to produce new flowers. The clusters get thick with the unfer-
tilized flowers over a period of several weeks. Then the flowering
pattern begins to change. The pistils begin to wither, similar to the
way pistils of fertilized flowers do and they begin to dry while at the
same time changing color. Next, the calyx (ovary) begins to swell.
There is no seed developing inside the calyx; it is a sort of a false
pregnancy. When the calyx has swelled, the cluster or cola is ripe
and ready to be picked.
The pistil's color is a factor of genetics and temperature. Some
plants, including many indicas, naturally develop a purplish color.
Many indicas and most sativas develop a red color. However, the
color may change to purple or become more pronounced if the
roots are subjected to a cool environment, below 55 degrees.
The growing flowers develop glands over their outer surfaces.
Glands also develop along the small leaf parts surrounding the
flower. These are unlike the glands found on the immature plant,
the sun leaves, and the stem. The earlier glands were either con-
nected directly to the plant, usually along the stem or had a small
one-celled stalk connected to the head which filled with can-
nabinoids. The new glands have a longer stem which supports a
larger head. The head is a membrane that fills with cannabinoids.
The analogs of THC produced in the different types of glands may
vary.
When the gland first appears the head is small but it begins to
swell and looks like it might burst. Given any stress it will. Usually
the head is filled as the plants go into the last stage of flowering, as
the ovaries begin to swell. This is usually when experienced growers
pick the buds.

Researchers, scientists, and gardeners have debated the pur-
pose that THC serves to the plant. THC and the water-soluble com-
pounds which impart the taste and aroma to the flowers act as an
anti-bacterial agent, and repel some insects. They also repel most
other animals including mammals and birds. (Remember, we are
talking about a mature plant, heavy with resin.) This is not uncom-
mon in plants. To assure that the seed is viable and not destroyed
before it matures, the plant puts out a powerful array of chemicals

 

to thwart predators. Once the seed matures, it is palatable to these
creatures. This is one of the ways that the plant spreads its popula-
tions without human help. Animals and birds eat the seeds, an oc-
casional seed passes out of the animal's system unharmed, allowing
the species to colonize a new location.
Once the calyx swells, the glands begin to change color. The
THC in the head was previously a clear liquid. When the calyx is
getting a little overripe, the gland head tints an amber shade. This
indicates that the THC is beginning to degrade into two other can-
nabinoids, CBL or CBN, which are not nearly as powerful as THC.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Advanced Flowering

Created by Sam Selgnij
Copyright 1986 Ed Rosenthal and Sam Selgnij

In Chapter 25 (Flowering), marijuana's photoperiod response
was described. Most varieties of cannabis flower in response to
changes in the light cycle. This is a foolproof method for a plant to
determine when to flower when it is adapted to a particular loca-
tion. Every year the ratio of dark to light remains the same at a par-
ticular date. Scientists think that plants measure the number of
hours of darkness by producing a hormone, tentatively named
florigen. This hormone has not actually been discovered. The
theory is that when the level of this hormone reaches a critical level,
the plant goes into its reproductive mode.
Through simple experimentation, we know some interesting
things about this plant response. It is a localized response by the
plant. This was discovered by shading one branch of a plant but
leaving the rest of it without a daily dark period. Only the branch
that was shaded flowered. (This is a viable technique to use to sex
plants).
Researchers think that the hormone is produced by the plant
continuously. However, it is destroyed or metabolized by an en-
zyme or hormone which is produced only in the presence of light.
Under natural conditions, the critical level builds up only with the
onset of long nights in the autumn. When the dark cycle is inter-
rupted by light, even for a few minutes or less, the florigen is
destroyed by the plant and the plant starts the buildup to the critical
level over again.
The response to different light cycles is a graduated one. Plants
that initiate flowering at one light/darkness routine flower more
heavily when the amount of darkness is increased. This response is
more pronounced on plants originating from a higher latitude
where the light cycle changes more.
Chrysanthemums are also long night-flowering plants, and
their growth patterns have been studied extensively for use by the
greenhouse industry. Researchers found that the largest flowers
with the highest total weight were grown when the dark cycle
routine was provided each night. When the plants were shaded 6

 

nights a week, there was a slight diminution of flower size and total
weight. With each additional unshaded night, flower size and
weight dropped.
Cannabis is one of the most widespread plants. It is naturalized
everywhere from the equator to the arctic. (Private cannabis
gardens have also been documented as being grown by scientists
stationed at outposts in the Antarctic - it's not illegal there since
no country has sovereignty). The plant has developed many varia-
tions on the photoperiod response to adjust to different climactic
and latitudinal conditions.
Female plants from equatorial or sub-equatorial zones such as
Colombia, southern Mexico, central Africa, and south India are
absolute photo-determinate (APD). These plants are acclimated to
latitudes in which there is little variation in the light cycle
throughout the year. As long as the dark period falls below a
minimum trigger period, the plant remains in the vegetative growth
cycle. This can go on for years under continuous light conditions.
When the dark period lengthens to a trigger point, the plant
changes its growth pattern to sexual development. If the dark
period falls below the trigger level when the plants are flowering,
the plants easily revert back to vegetative growth.
APD plants are good candidates to flower and regenerate.
Since they respond to the light cycle in a relatively simple way, ir-
regular or interrupted cycles alter growth significantly. Buds are
smaller, leafier, fluffier, looser, and may run. They look a bit like
low-light flowers.
Flower size can be increased by allowing the plants to ripen ful-
ly, then placing them in a continuous light regimen for a few days.
Flowering is triggered again and the plants produce new clusters of
flowers.
Some cannabis varieties are "relative photoperiod deter-
minate" (RPD). These plants have a trigger that they respond to
under normal growing conditions, but when they receive an unusual
light regimen, they respond to the change in the light conditions in
unusual ways. For example, an early flowering indica normally trig-
gers at 10 hours of darkness, but if it is grown under continuous
light and then the darkness cycle is increased to 8 hours, the plant
triggers. Once these plants are triggered, the light cycle has less af-
fect upon them than upon the absolutes. The developing flowers are
not as sensitive to occasional interruption of the darkness cycle.
RPD varieties include mid-and high-range latitude-adapted
plants including Moroccans and southern Africans, early indicas,
commercial hemp and hybrids developed for early harvest
(September or earlier).
RPD varieties are harder to manipulate using the light cycle.
Plants placed into flowering do not revert to vegetative growth as
easily as APD varieties. The plants are harder to regenerate. Light
stress promotes hermaphroditism in these varieties. They are harder
to clone; they take longer and have a lower success rate.
Most males and some extreme northern varieties including the
ruderalis strains fall into a third category which is not photosen-

 

sitive at all. Both age and development seem to play a role in deter-
mining when these plants flower. For example, a Hungarian
ruderalis developed flowers under continuous light after 8 weeks.
Most varieties of males indicate under continuous light after 3-9
months. Thais and some equatorial sativa males are exceptions and
will not flower until the dark period is increased. Under 18 hours of
light, males indicate sooner than under continuous light.
Cold may hasten sexual expression but not flower development
of some northern varieties.
Some varieties, especially indicas, respond to unnatural light
cycles by showing of photo-period response disorder. Genetic
females turn hermaphroditic when exposed to long dark periods
during early growth.
Chart 27B
MATURATION PATTERNS UNDER NATURAL LIGHT
LENGTH OF FLOWERING
Inductions 3-4 Weeks 5-7 Weeks 8-15 Weeks
Flowering Short Medium Long
Early July 1 2 3

 

 

Mid-August-
________ _________ 6
________ 5 _________
4 _________ _________
September

 

Late October-
__________ _________ 9
_________ 8 _________
7 _________ _________
November
Colombia & Equatorial African 8-9
South African 2
Southern Mexican 5-6
Early Indica 1-2
Late Indica 5
Southern Indian Sativa 8
Thai 9
Ruderalis 1
Nepalese 6
Chilean 1-2
Korean 1-2

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Breeding

Humans have been breeding marijuana informally for
thousands of years. The first farmers chose seeds from the best

 

plants. Over many generations the plant was differentiated into
varieties which had different uses and thrived under various en-
vironmental conditions.
Scientific breeding did not begin until Gregor Mendel's ex-
periments on inherited characteristics were discovered. Mendel
crossed peas with differing characteristics and found that the off-
spring plants inherited traits from their parents in a logical, predic-
table, statistical way.
Today we know that each cell contains a set of chemical
blueprints regarding every aspect of its existence. These chemical
codes are called chromosomes and they consist of long double
strands of sugar which have ""bases" consisting of one of four
amino acids. Sets of three of these amino acid bases form genes
which are ""read" by structures in the cell and direct it in its life pro-
cesses.
Chromosomes are found in pairs in most cells. Half of each
pair of chromosomes is contributed by the male through pollen and
half by the female. Marijuana has 10 pairs or 20 chromosomes.
Each chromosome's genes are lined up in a specific order. The
other member of the pair has a corresponding gene in the same
location. Sometimes, a single gene is responsible for a
characteristic. In other cases, several genes are responsible, often in
a complex series of reactions.
There has been very little formal genetic work on marijuana.
Almost all of the research is the result of observation by cultivators.
However, the cell and its chromosomes are easily observed using a
high-powered microscope. Even an inexpensive instrument allows
one to see the chromosomes during mitosis (cell division). The
chromosomes line up in pairs and then reproduce themselves as the
cell splits into two. When reproductive cells are produced, the pairs
of chromosomes split and only one chromosome of each pair goes
into each reproductive cell. (Photographs can be taken with the aid
of a 35 mm SLR camera and an inexpensive adapter tube.)
About 2% of the time, the genes ""jump" from one member of
the pair of chromosomes to the other. This is a significant fact in
breeding because it gives individual chromosomes a means of
changing information regarding the characteristics for which they
are coded.
Breeding would be a relatively simple task if only one trait or
characteristic were involved. However there are many factors to
consider when choosing plants for breeding. These include: poten-
cy, taste, aroma, color, maturation time, yield, height, branching
habits, adaption to low-light conditions, resistance to pests or
diseases, leaf drop at maturity, and sterility.
When a plant ""breeds true" it means that most of the cor-
responding genes on each of the pairs of chromosomes of the 10
pairs have the same information. However, plants of different
varieties which are crossed are hybrids, and many of the correspon-
ding genes on the two sets of chromosomes have information which
is in conflict. For instance, the first generation cross (an F1 hybrid)
may contain genes from one parent programmed for tall plants and

 

genes from the other parent programmed for short stature. In this
case the plants all have approximately the same height, intermediate
between the two parents. When two F1 hybrids are crossed,
however, the plants are either tall, intermediate or short. The
reason is that some of the plants have genes for tallness, some for
shortness and others for both.
Many of the important characteristics of marijuana seem to be
coded for ""partial dominance" as was just described. Aroma,
taste, and potency seem to fall into this category. When more than
one gene is involved, there can be enormous numbers of possible
combinations.
Some characteristics are coded on genes which are either domi-
nant or recessive. According to Robert Connell Clarke, author of
Manjuana Botany, tall height, unwebbed leaves, green rather than
purple coloring on calyxes (seed bracts), and large-size seeds are all
dominant genes. A cross between two plants with conflicting genes
would result in the F1 generation all showing the dominant trait. A
cross between two F1 plants results in a majority of the plants in-
dicating the dominant trait and only a few, those without the domi-
nant gene on either chromosome, indicating the information found
on the recessive gene.
It is difficult for the hobbyist or grower to institute a scientific
breeding program because thousands of plants must be grown to
find one specimen which meets ideal breeding requirements.
Growers have a limited amount of space to devote to the plants and
thus have trouble sorting out the crosses. Cultivators can select the
best plants in the garden for breeding. Sometimes a plant has one
outstanding characteristic but is unexceptional in other respects.
This characteristic can be introduced into the breeding pool and
then the undesirable traits can be ""sorted out".
Marijuana is especially difficult to breed scientifically because
half the plants, those bearing pollen, carry genetic information for
hidden factors. An observer has few means of judging the genetic
potential of male plants regarding yield, bud structure, and even
potency. There is some correlation between the male's potency and
that of its daughters. One way to solve this problem is to induce
male flowers on female plants. Then the characteristics of both
parents are known and all the resulting plants have only female
chromosomes.
As in humans, gender in cannabis is determined by the ""X"
and ""Y" chromosomes. The female has two X chromosomes and
the male has one X and one Y. When the male plant produces
pollen, half of the reproductive cells receive X and half Y.
However, when male flowers are artificially induced in female
plants, the pollen contains only X chromosomes, the only sex
chromosomes the female plant has. All the resulting seeds contain
two X chromosomes, one from each parent.
To induce male flowers in female plants, the plants are sprayed
with gibberellic acid or watered with an aspirin/water solution.
Gibberellic acid is a plant hormone originally isolated from
mold-infested rice. Symptoms of the infection include extraor-

 

dinary vertical growth. Gibberellic acid affects plants in a variety of
ways. In marijuana, it causes extension of all stems on which it is
sprayed, and if used before flowers develop, it occasionally induces
""sex reversal" in females: male flowers develop on sprayed areas.
The plant's genetic structure remains the same; however, the sex
characteristics are altered. In a general way this is similar to a sex
change operation; the genetic information contains information for
one sex, but the hormones which are introduced by pill or injection
artificially induce physiological changes in the body, including
development of the other sex's sexual characteristics.
Several correspondents have described the results of adding
aspirin to their water. One grower used two aspirin in a gallon of
water when the plants were in their third week of flowering. He said
that the plants grew thousands of pollen sacs which contained fer-
tile pollen.
The most methodical way to breed marijuana using these
substances is to allow the plants to flower after taking several clones
from each plant. Once the plants are harvested, cured and tested,
the cuttings of all except those plants selected as the best for
breeding are eliminated. When the plants are large enough to pro-
duce adequate amounts of seed for the breeder's purpose, some of
the plants are kept as females, and male flowers are induced in
others. Then the plants are bred.
The first step involves gathering the pollen. Since cannabis is
usually wind-pollinated, it produces an abundance of pollen which
floats easily in the air. The male plants are placed in a separate
draft-free location and the pollen drops onto unprinted paper
placed underneath the plant. However, if there are several plants in
the same room, the different plants' pollen may become con-
taminated with each other. If the plants are bent or turned on their
sides so that the pollen has to drop through less air, more pollen
collects. Plants placed in a cardboard box are even less susceptible
to draft.
Some growers collect pollen by cutting the flower spikes off the
plants just as the flowers are to open. These spikes are placed in a
paper bag so no pollen is lost. Pollen can also be collected by plac-
ing a white paper bag around flower spikes. White paper is used so
that light rays are reflected rather than absorbed by the bag and
turned into heat, which may damage the plant. Non-coated parch-
ment paper breathes and eliminates humidity problems.
Once the pollen is collected, the female flowers are fertilized.
(If pollen is scarce, it is diluted 10-100 parts by weight with flour).
Pollination can be accomplished simply by placing a bag filled with
pollen around a bud and then shaking it. The pollen settles for a
day or two and then is removed. Another method is to ""paint" the
pollen onto the female flowers using a small watercolor brush. One
grower insists that it is easiest to pollinate using your fingers.
The best time to pollinate marijuana is when the flowers are
well developed but still fresh, and have gone through several stages
of growth and filling out.
Breeding is a very detailed subject and this is just a cursory

 

discussion of it. For more information, I recommend the book,
Marijuana Botany by R.C. Clarke.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Harvesting

Female marijuana goes through several stages of flowering.
First a few flowers appear. Then new flowers develop around the
first ones. Flowers also form at each leaf node along the branches
and main stem. The buds start to fill out so that the cluster becomes
thick with pistils (the little antennae) reaching out for pollen. The
pistils are white, or sometimes shaded pink or lavender. They look
fresh and moist.
Some of the pistils begin to wither and turn red, purple, or
even a light brown. Just as the cluster looks like it's finished, a new
wave of flower growth appears, usually concentrated in a relatively
bare spot. Successive waves of flowers may appear for weeks.
The flowers close, and the calyxes start to swell. This is a false
seed pod; the flowers have not been fertilized and no seed can
develop. These pods are totally covered with resin glands. At
maturity the glands should sparkle like individual jewels in bright
light. The individual glands should appear clear under magnifica-
tion. When the glands turn amber, the buds should be harvested.
No bud should be picked before its time. Plants and varieties
differ as to maturation pattern. Some plants mature all at once, so
that the whole plant can be picked. Other varieties mature from the
top down. One respected researcher claimed ""Most plants I've had
mature bottom to top. The main bud was the last to finish." Under
lights, however, the top buds mature first most of the time. Next,
the buds nearest the top and so on. The buds on the outside of the
branch are likely to mature faster than inner buds. It may take a
month before the plant is totally picked. Picking the plant a little at
a time allows previously shaded portions of the plant to receive light
and grow.

A HARVEST PROBLEM

 

Some equatorial varieties need so much light to mature proper-
ly that it is virtually impossible to supply the intensity using ar-
tificial light as the only source. These plants grow flowers but the
growth is loose and the flowers take months to ripen. Sometimes
the flowers "run". They grow very sparsely along the stem instead
of forming tight clusters. Increasing the amount of light helps. One
grower said that lowering the temperature in the grow room en-
courages the plants to develop more compact growth.
Although these equatorial buds may not look great, and have
less commercial value, they may still be extremely potent and be
genetically coded for the soaring sativa high.
Usually, indoor flowers are not as compact as outdoor grown
flowers. They are every bit as potent though, perhaps more potent.
Outdoors, plants are subject to a harsh environment. Wind, rain,

 

animals passing through, plant and animal droppings all take their
toll on THC glands. They are punctured, rubbed off or even wash-
ed away. Indoors, plants are living in a friendlier environment and
almost all of the glands produced remain on the plant. The more
glands present, the stronger the grass.
MOLD

 

Dense buds are sometimes attacked by molds. These fast-
growing, non-green plants grow from spores which float in the air.
They start to grow when they come in contact with a conducive en-
vironment: high humidity, low light and temperatures in the 60's.
These conditions are most likely to occur outdoors or in a
greenhouse during harvest season, when the temperatures are lower
than during the summer and when there is less light and higher
humidity from the dense foliage. Any moisture or wetness is easily
trapped in the buds and the molds grow quickly, turning a beautiful
bud into mush or slime overnight.
Indoors, molds also occur during harvest season, usually due
to low light conditions and too high a humidity.
There are several things that can be done to prevent molds, and
to limit the damage that they do. Molds are much less likely to grow
when the temperature is above their ideal conditions. By keeping
the space in the high 70's, their growth may be prevented. Since the
spores float in the air, they can be precipitated using a negative ion
generator. This means that there are fewer agents to create infec-
tions. Lowering the humidity by using a dehumidifier or air vent
stops the growth.
Once mold occurs in the space, the farmer should take action
immediately. The mold's growth can be stopped by raising
temperature and lowering humidity. Increasing light intensity helps.
All buds which show signs of mold damage should be harvested.
Some growers cut the infected material out of buds instead of
removing the entire piece. The site of the infection can be sprayed
with a 5% bleach solution to kill the remaining mold. This need not
be rinsed.
Some growers use commercial fungicides available for various
molds, but many of these are not recommended for food plants and
others have long residual life.

Chapter Thirty

Curing and Manicuring

When a bud is picked, many of its metabolic processes con-
tinue for a while. The cells begin to convert carbohydrates back to
sugars and break down some of the pigments. Chlorophyll is one of
the pigments affected. Some of it is metabolized and the bud ap-
pears a lighter green than when it was first picked. Some of the
other pigments will show through then, giving the bud a red, purple
or cream color.
To continue to cure, the leaves need to be dried slowly so that

 

moisture remains in the cells. They stay alive and continue life pro-
cesses. On the other hand, if the curing process takes too long,
mold may form on the buds.
Small amounts of marijuana dissipate their water quickly in an
open room because the relative humidity of the air in houses is
usually dry. A paper bag can be used to conserve water. The bag
should be opened and aired twice a day. In areas with high humidity
or when it is rainy, there is enough moisture in the air to let the buds
dry in the open air.
Larger amounts are cured in areas with more air circulation --
an attic or basement or a dark room will do. A fan may be needed
to increase circulation. Since all of the vegetation is contributing
moisture to the air, ventilation is needed to remove it. Rooms that
are too moist are conducive to mold. If mold appears, increase the
heat in the room to 80 degrees, so that the air can absorb more
water.
Whole plants can be hung upside down but it is much easier to
hang branches cut in 1-2 foot lengths. These can be hung along
lines, laid on trays or placed on shelves. It is easy to hang buds using
clothespins or twist-ties.
Some growers don't mind a little more chlorophyll taste and
would rather dry the buds quickly. If the space has low humidity
and is warm, the plants will dry fast. One grower placed buds in a
microwave oven for 30 seconds or more on high power so that some
of the moisture was removed, then let them dry normally. He said it
reduced drying time by 50%. Microwaves kill seeds, so that buds
containing desired seed should not be microwaved.
Food dehydrators can come in handy, too. They never get very
hot so little THC is destroyed, yet their warmth promotes quick
drying. Some growers let the plants dry naturally for a few days and
then finish them off in the food dryer.
If plants begin to mold, they should be dried immediately
before the infection can spread. Mold is contained by keeping in-
fected plants separated from others. This should always be done
because of latent spores.
Drying in an oven is not recommended. Getting the timing
wrong or forgetting the buds for a few minutes can spell disaster. A
vegetable dehydrator serves the purpose much better because it has
relatively low maximum temperatures and will not burn the buds.
While the plants are drying, the large leaves can be removed us-
ing scissors, a knife, fingernails, or a clipper. It is harder and takes
longer to manicure when the plants are wet.
The best time to manicure is when the plants are near dry.
When the plants are wet they are difficult to clip. When they are dry
many of the glands fall off as the bud is handled. When the plants
still have some moisture, the glands are more likely to stay attached
to the plant. Manicuring is easier right after picking because the
leaves are still turgid. Growers sometimes manicure while the plants
are still standing. The plants are in a convenient position and there
seems to be less chance of damage to the bud.
Buds which are too close can be pressed together when they are

 

still wet. They will dry in the position they hold. Rolling them gently
in between one's hands shapes them.
Plenty of light must be used manicuring the buds so that the
grower can see clearly exactly what he is doing. A good overhead
light as well as a table or floor lamp will do as long as it is bright. A
directional light such as an office or typewiter lamp is ideal.
To manicure, the large sun leaves outside of the bud area are
removed. The smaller multi-fingered leaves are removed next. The
bud should now appear almost naked, except for some single
fingered leaves sticking out from between the flowers. Rather than
removing these leaves entirely, they are clipped down to the cir-
cumference of the flowers, so that the ends of the leaf do not stick
out.
Once the bud has dried, it should be packed in an airtight,
lightight container. Buds which are packed moist are likely to mold.
One grower left some moisture on the buds, packed them in food
sealers, and then microwaved them to kill the mold. A bud should
be left undisturbed until it is to be smoked. Every time it is moved,
unpacked, or handled, some of the resin glands fall off. The glands
can be seen cascading through the air whenever a bud is handled
roughly.
Sun leaves are unsuitable for smoking except through a water-
pipe. The leaves can be prepared for smoking by soaking them in
water for several hours and then rinsing the leaves. The water
dissolves many of the pigments and resins including much of the
chlorophyll, but the THC remains on the leaves. The water is
dumped and then the leaves are dried. They smoke much smoother
than they did originally. They can also be used in cooking, in brew-
ing or the THC they hold can be removed and concentrated.
The smaller leaves which were trimmed from the buds, in-
cluding single finger leaves and trimming, are quite potent but they
do not smoke that smoothly. Trim can also be smoked in a water-
pipe or soaked in water.
The buds are usually saved for smoking. The quality of the bud
improves for several weeks after it has dried. The THC acid loses its
water molecule and becomes psychoactive. Once the bud is fairly
dry, the evaporation can be speeded up by keeping the bud in a
warm place for a few hours or by using a microwave oven.

Chapter Thirty-One

Regeneration

After the marijuana plant has ripened and the flowers have
reached full maturity, it still responds to changes in its environ-
ment. Plants can be regenerated and can yield a second, third and
possibly even more harvests.
In its natural environment, marijuana flowers in the fall, and
then dies as the environment becomes inhospitable and the number
of daylight hours decrease. However, if the daylength increases, the
plants soon begin to revert from flowering to vegetative growth. At
first, the plant produces single-fingered leaves, then 3 and S

 

fingered leaves. Within a few weeks the plants grow at the rapid
vegetative rate.
There are several advantages to regenerating marijuana plants
rather than starting from seed. The plant has been harvested and its
qualities and potency are known. The plant has already built its in-
frastructure. Its root system and main stem are already grown so
that it takes less energy and time for the plant to produce new
vegetative growth. A regenerated plant produces the same amount
of vegetative growth in 45 days that takes a plant started from seed
75 days.
To regenerate a plant, some leaves and bud material are left on
the stem as the plant is harvested. The stem may be left at nearly its
full length, or cut back to only a few inches from the ground. The
more stem with leaf material left on the plant, the faster it
regenerates, as new growth develops at the sites of the remaining
leaf material.
The plant started flowering in response to a change in the light
cycle. To stop the flowering process, the light cycle is turned back
to a long day period. The plant reacts as if it had lived through the
winter and renews growth as if it were spring. Within 7-10 days
new non-flowering growth is apparent.
Marijuana seems to react fastest to the change in light cycle
when the light is kept on continually during the changeover period.
After it has indicated new growth, the light cycle may be adjusted to
the normal garden lighting cycle.

Chapter Thirty-Two

Cloning

Clones are a fancy name for cuttings. Almost everyone has
taken a piece of a plant and placed it in water until it grew roots. As
it developed, the leaves, flowers, fruit and other characteristics of
the plant were exactly the same as the donor plant from which it
was taken. That cutting was an exact genetic reproduction of a
donor plant.
Many growers prefer to start their garden from clones. There
are several reasons for this.
Growers must start only a few more plants than needed
because all the clones, being the same genetic make-up, are the
same sex as the donor, presumably, female.
Clone gardens are usually derived from donors which were ex-
ceptional plants. The new plants are every bit as exceptional as the
donor.
The plants have the same growth and flowering patterns,
maturation time, nutrient requirements, taste and high. The garden
has a uniformity that allows the grower to use the space most effi-
ciently.
Unique plants with rare genetic characteristics can be saved
genetically intact. For example, a grower had an infertile female.
Even though the plant was in the midst of a mixed field, it produced
no seed. At the end of the season the plant was harvested and that

 

rare quality died with the plant. Had the grower made cuttings, that
plant's traits would have been preserved.
Clone gardens have disadvantages, too. If a disease attacks a
garden, all of the plants have the same susceptibility because they
all have the same qualities of resistance. The home gardener may
get tired of smoking the same stuff all of the time. In terms of
genetics, the garden is stagnant; there is no sexual reproduction tak-
ing place.
Cuttings root easiest when they are made while the plant is still
in its vegetative growth stage. However, they can be taken even as
the plant is being harvested. Some growers think that cuttings from
the bottom of the plant, which gets less light, are better clone
material, but cuttings from all parts of the plant can root.
Cuttings are likely to have a high dropoff rate if they are not
given a moist, warm environment. They often succumb to stem rot
or dehydration. Stem rot is usually caused by a lack of oxygen.
Dehydration results from improper irrigation techniques, letting the
medium dry, or from overtaxing the new plants. Cuttings do not
have the root system required to transpire large amounts of water
needed under bright light conditions. Instead, they are placed in a
moderately lit area where their resources are not stressed to the
limit.
Growers who are making only 1 or 2 cuttings usually take the
new growth at the ends of the branches. These starts are 4-6 inches
long. All of the large leaves are removed and vegetative growth is
removed except for an inch of leaves and shoots at the end-tip. If
large numbers of cuttings are being taken, a system using less
donor-plant material is preferred. Starts can be made from many of
the internodes along the branch which have vegetative growth.
These starts are at least an inch long and each one has some leaf
material.
If the cuttings are not started immediately, air may get trapped
at the cut end, preventing the cutting from obtaining water. To pre-
vent this, 1/6 inch is sliced off the end of the stem immediately before
planting or setting to root.
All cuts should be made with a sterile knife, scissors, or razor
blade. Utensils can be sterilized using bleach, fire, or alcohol. Some
horticulturists claim that scissors squeeze and injure remaining
tissue, but this does not seem to affect survival rates.
It usually takes between 10 and 20 days for cuttings to root.
They root fastest and with least dropoff when the medium is kept at
about 65 degrees.
Small cuttings can be rooted in water by floating them. The
""Klone Kit", which is no longer available, used small styrofoam
chips, which are sold as packing material, to hold the cuttings.
Holes were placed in the chips with a pencil or other sharp instru-
ment, and then the stem slipped through. The unit easily floats in
the water. The kit also included rooting solution, 100 milliliter
plastic cups (3 ounce), and coarse vermiculite. The cups were half
filled with vermiculite and then the water-rooting solution was
poured to the top of the cups. As the water level lowered, the cut-

 

tings rooted in the vermiculite.
Styrofoam chips can be floated in the water without solid
medium. When the cuttings begin to root, they are moved to ver-
miculite. One grower adapted this technique using one-holed cork
stoppers instead of styrofoam chips. He used 1 x 2 inch, 72-unit
seed trays and placed one cork in each unit.
The water is changed daily, or a small air pump can be used to
supply air to the water, so that the submerged plant parts have ac-
cess to oxygenated water. A water-soluble rooting agent containing
B1 and the rooting hormone indolebutyric acid promote root
growth. A very dilute nutrient solution which is relatively high in P
is added to the water once roots appear. When the cutting develops
roots, it can be planted in a moist medium such as vermiculite and
watered with a dilute nutrient solution for 10-15 days.
One popular commercial cloning kit consists of a tray which
holds peat pellets in a miniature greenhouse. The cuttings are plac-
ed one to a peat pellet. Fairly small-to-large-size cuttings can be
placed in these pellets.
Cuttings can be rooted in the same way as any other woody
cutting. First, the branch is cut into two, including some foliage on
the upper segment of the branch. Smaller cuttings can be made, but
they are harder to manipulate. Then a diagonal cut is made at the
bottom end of the shoot. The cutting is put into a unit of 1 x 2",
72-cup seed trays, 2" pot or 6 ounce styrofoam cup filled with fine
vermiculite wetted to saturation with water containing a rooting
solution such as Klone Concentrate.
To place the cutting in the medium without scraping off the
fungicide, a thin pencil or other rod is pushed into the medium,
creating a hole. The cutting is gently placed in the hole and the
medium gently pressed down tightly around the stem so that there is
moist contact.
Cuttings do best and have a much higher survival rate when
they are rooted in a humid atmosphere. The tray or containers are
covered with a clear plastic cover which keeps moisture high and
allows the light in. The cuttings are kept warm and within a few
weeks they develop into rootlings. One grower used a pyrex dish
and cover to root her cuttings which were placed in 1 inch square
containers.

Chapter Thirty-Three

Experiments

Horticulturists have reported a number of methods for increas-
ing plant yeilds which are still in the experimental stage. These in-
clude stimulating growth using an electrical current, the use of
estrogen and progestin, and the use of strobe lighting.

 

ELECTRICITY

 

 

 

Experiments at the University of Maryland indicate that a very
weak electrical current running through the soil increases the
growth rates of plants. This stimulation seems to be most effective
when the plants are not receiving a lower than optimum level of
light. Some researchers speculate that the current increases the
roots' efficiency in obtaining nutrients by affecting the chemical-
electrical charges of the nutrient dissolved in the water. One com-
pany manufactures a photovoltaic device specifically to charge the
soil. The magazine Mother Earth News reported in the March 1984
issue that plant growth can be doubled using these devices.
""Sun Stiks" are available from Silicon Sensors, Highway 18
East, Dodgeville, Wisconsin 53533.
FEMALE HORMONES - BIRTH CONTROL PILLS

 

Over the years there have been a lot of anecdotal reports in-
dicating that birth control pills stimulate plant growth. In 1983, a
farmer in Texas reported that his tomato plants grew many more
tomatoes after they received two treatments with estrogen-based
pills.
There may be a problem of safety regarding the use of these
hormones. There have been no studies on what happens to the hor-
mone once it is taken up by the plant. When estrogen is given to
farm animals, it increases their growth rate, but the meat contains
traces of the substance, which sometimes affects people who eat it.

 

 

STROBE LIGHTS

 

Some botanists have speculated that the pigments which are us-
ed in photosynthesis respond to energy peaks in the light wave.
These scientists believe that much of the light is wasted by the plant
because it isn't "peak". They speculate that much energy could be
saved by supplying the plant only with light "peaks". One way to
do this is by using a strobe unit in place of conventional lighting.
The strobe flashes a high intensity of light, but it is on for only frac-
tions of a second. The result is that the plants receive many light
peaks in between periods of darkness.
There has been little research on this theory, but one grower
claimed to get satisfactory results.
One way to use a strobe without too much risk might be to use
it to supplement more conventional lighting. If a higher growth rate
is noticed, the strobes could be tried alone. Should this system
work, electrical costs could be lowered by as much as 75%.
A Letter to Readers

I gathered the information in this book from primary research
as well as through interviews and correspondence with growers. I

 

appreciate this contact and will continue to try and make myself
available to individuals with similar interests.
Your ideas, criticisms, feedback and comments help to shape
future works. They are invaluable to my research activities.
Newspaper articles about growing, eradication activities, and other
topics of interest are also helpful. Finally, any research material in-
cluding university studies and scientific articles help to round out
the information cycle.
I already receive quite a bit of mail about marijuana and its
cultivation, and I do not have the time to answer it all personally.
However, I do read it all. I currently write a column for High Times
magazine called ""Ask Ed" in which I answer readers' questions
about marijuana; your question may very well be answered in that
column or in other articles in High Times or Sinsemilla Tips.
You have a better chance of receiving an answer if you enclose
a self-addressed, stamped envelope, but still, there are no
guarantees. Any correspondence suggesting my participation or en-
couragement of an illegal activity will be ignored.

Stay high,

Ed Rosenthal
High Times
211 East 43rd Street
New York, New York 10017

Uncle Taz Home Page 3

 

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