Grower's Solution Learning Center

2011-12-08T11:17:00.001-06:00

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Join us on our new site for up-to-date information!

Greenhouse Assembly Instructions

2010-11-24T10:46:00.004-06:00

High Sidewall Instructions - PDF

Low Sidewall Instructions - PDF

Basic Quonset Instructions - PDF

Dakota Greenhouse instructions - PDF

Drip Irrigation Kit - Slideshow

2010-04-08T13:38:00.003-05:00

Below is an excellent slideshow demonstrating how our drip irrigation kits are assembled.

View Master Gardener Kit

View Truck Farmer Kit

View Economby Drip Kit

End Wall Kit Directions For Greenhouses

2010-03-07T13:38:00.005-06:00

You can find the end-wall instructions at this link. Here is our Greenhouse Endwall Directions You will find that these end-walls are great compared to having to use pressure treated lumber. These directions have some great drawing to help you understand the installation.

Wind Damage Control for Greenhouse Plastic

2010-02-25T08:19:00.007-06:00

Many people are concerned about wind and greenhouses. Greenhouse frames normally do not fail. Film Fails. If you use a strapping to tighten down plastic then you can control film failure. Greenhouse plastic expands and contracts with heat and cold. Therefor you need to snug it up to get rid of the slack. Strapping works like a girdle or belt to tighten your film up, make it snug and take slack out. If you need reliable wind control and film attachment, then you need Greenhouse Wind Control Strapping made of durable polypropylene. Protect your greenhouse against wind damage. Save time by eliminating tedious repairs. Let Greenhouse Wind Control Strapping do its job, so you have more time to do yours! It is the cheapest Wind insurance you can buy. For More Information

Wood stove Ideas in Greenhouses

2009-02-08T20:29:00.003-06:00

Below is a slide how about wood stove ideas in greenhouses. We do make parts for the Stove House

Images of Greenhouse Wirelock being installed.

2008-12-07T10:17:00.003-06:00

This is just a few images of wirelock that is being installed. I will add more images to this presentation as they become available.

Dramm Syphonject Instructions and Troubleshooting

2008-03-27T10:47:00.001-05:00

Dramm Syphonject Instructions and Troubleshooting

Dramm's Syphonject draws a concentrated solution from a bucket through a flexible suction tube and then dilutes it with the passing water stream at an approximate ration of 16 parts water to 1 part concentrated solution.

The 16:1 dilution ratio is directly related to the amount of water pressure available through your garden hose. As water pressure increases, the dilution ratio will increase. Dramm recommends that you determine the exact dilution ratio of your Syphonject with your available water pressure, hose and choice of nozzles. For more information on how to do this, see below.

CAUTION! Do not use the Syphonject to apply pesticides, fungicides or poisons. Do not drink from a hose that has had fertilizers, chemicals or any other solutions through them. Follow all manufacturer's recommendations. Detach the Syphonject from your faucet after use.

Mixing a Concentrated Solution

Determine how much solution you will need. Certain fertilizers require an application of a specific amount of product over a specific area. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Prepare a water/fertilizer solution that is 16 times stronger than the rate normally used. For each gallon of water used in your solution, mix in 16 times the manufacturer's recommended rate of fertilizer. For each gallon of concentrated solution you prepare, your Syphonject will apply 16 gallons of correctly diluted solution.

Determine the ratio of your syphonject.

What you will need:

1. A large container you know the Volume of (Example 5 Gallon Bucket)
2. A Small container you know the volume of (Example 1 Quart Bottle)

Step 1:

Set up the Syphonject on the Faucet. Connect the hose to it.

Step 2:

Fill the small container with clear water (example 1 Quart) and place the small black siphon hose into it.

Step 3:

Hold the end of the hose in the large container (example 5 Gallon Bucket)

Step 4:

Turn on the water and fill the large container until the small container is empty.

Step 5:

Measure the amount in the large container (Example 4 Gallons)

Step 6:

Calculate the ratio. 4 gallons (16 Quarts) to 1 Quart = 16: 1

Troubleshooting

If the syphonject appears to be malfunctioning do a simple test to determine that no other external conditions are effecting this device.

-Attach the syphonject to a faucet that is connected to a building.
-Attach a to 5/8 inch round garden hose to the syphonject. Do not put any devices on the end of hose.
-Use a small container and fill with water, put the black siphon hose in it.
-Turn on the water.
-If the siphon action does not occur than the unit if defective. If it does work than there is some external problem.
Common Issues

1. Why doesn't my syphonject draw up the fertilizer?

Answer

A. The hose is longer than 50 feet so very little back pressure is created.
B. The device on the end of the hose is not allowing the 6 gallons per minute flow to occur.
C. The hose used is a coiled or flat type of hose. These types of hoses are all low volume hoses that do not allow the 6 gallons per minute flow.

2. Why does water leak from the hole on the side of the syphonject?

Answer

A. The hose is longer than 50 feet. The back pressure is to low.
B. Water pressure is to low, below the 35 psi minimum water pressure.

3. Why is there a square plastic piece inside of the syphonject?

Answer

A. This plastic piece is part of an anti-siphon system required by the federal government. If for some reason the pressure is lost from the water source instead of the fertilizer bleeding into the water system it will leak out of the hole on the side of the syphonject.

4. Can I add a Y to my faucet before adding the syphonject?

Answer

A. No, most units will restrict the flow of water below the minimum 6 gallons per minute.

5. Why does my pressure drop when using the syphonject?

Answer

A. Because to create a suction strong enough to draw up the fertilizer the water needs to be pushed through a very small hole which causes a reduction in water flow.

Greenhouse Frequently Asked Questions

2008-03-06T13:17:00.008-06:00

GREENHOUSE FAQs

How will you ship my frame?
We use common carrier to deliver frames. We try to find the least expensive means to ship and you will know what the charges are before your purchase is finalized. If you are within 200 miles of Cookeville, TN we may deliver on our truck.

Are the frames or kits hard to install?
No... We give you complete instructions, and if you do have any questions feel free to call us at 1-931-528-3390. Most frames can bee installed in a day and kits can be installed in 2 days.

How are the ground staked attached ?
You will drive the side Stakes in the ground a minimum of 18 inches but can drive them up to 24 inches in the ground.

Will these greenhouses hold up in snow or ice?
Yes... under normal conditions they do an excellent job. They are made out of industrial grade tubing. Please understand that common sense tells us if you have 6 inches of wet snow on a greenhouse that it would be smart to sweep some off just for safety’s sake.

Do you offer complete packages or kits?
Yes we do but you need to email us so we can custom bid those items. For Specs please see below...

All frames come complete with ---- Bows, Purlin, Ground Stakes, Cross Connectors, Misc Hardware, and instructions for installation.

Polycarbonate Frequently Asked Questions

2008-03-06T13:13:00.005-06:00

Polycarbonate FAQ's

WHAT IS THE GUARANTEE?
It has a 10 year manufacturers warranty against Hail
damage and discoloration.

HOW WILL SHIPPING BE CALCULATED?
Shipping is calculated before the order is final so you will
know the exact cost. Crating is $6.00 per linear ft for the longest piece. Minimum crating charge is $40.00 You will have standard Truck charges figured in after that. We get the best possible quote for shipping.

SHOULD I BUY 4 FOOT OR 6 FOOT WIDE POLYCARBONATE?
This is dependent on your application. Most people use 4 ft 8 mm due to the ease of use and the standard size. If you have any questions feel free to give us a call and we will be happy to discuss this with you further. We want to make sure you get want you need.

DO YOU EVER DISCOUNT LARGE ORDERS?
Yes... We are always very competitive on price and try to give better service than our competitors. If you have any questions feel free to call 931-528-3390.

HOW FAST WILL MY ORDER SHIP?
Usually within 72 hours.

WHERE DO YOU SHIP FROM?
We ship from various warehouses in the U.S.

IS THERE A MINIMUM ORDER?
No, but order under several are cost prohibitive due to shipping.

CAN YOU CALCULATE HOW MUCH POLYCARBONATE I WILL NEED?
Yes, Just call us and we will be happy to help.

CAN YOU CUT THIS WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS?
Yes, a jig saw or circular saw is all you need.

CLICK HERE FOR CUSTOM QUOTE. Please tell us sizes and thickness in your email and we will be glad to Quote.

Shade Cloth FAQ's Part 2

2008-03-06T12:50:00.002-06:00

Black Shade Cloth
Classic multi-purpose shade in a wide variety of shade values is ideal of every application. Black color naturally resists the sun’s harmful UV Radiation for many years of satisfactory performance. A large selection of widths in stock makes it easy to choose the right size for your application. Use where plants are being light conditioned for indoor/outdoor use or where plants are being deliberately drawn to achieve increased height by reaching to a restricted light source. On hot days, black shade cloth absorbs the sun’s heat into the structure.

White Shade Cloth
White shade cloth offers reduced heat build up thanks to reflection of the sun’s powerful radiation. Diffusion of light underneath white shade cloth is also improved. Use for flowering plants which will be effected by longer natural light exposure due to an increase in light quantity and duration. White shade cloth absorbs and reflects the white scattered light from the atmosphere. The interior of the structure is cooler than that covered by black shade cloth in hot weather condition, as white shade cloth reflects the heat.

Colored Shade Cloth
This is the shade cloth of choice for nurseries, windscreens, temporary fencing, privacy screens, retail garden centers, patio lovers, baseball diamond fences, and tennis courts. Available in Green, Violet, Miller Blue, and Desert Tan.

Aluminet "Cool Shade" Shade Cloth - (For Aluminet Click Here)
Maximum radiation reflection on both sides, night and day. Substantially reduces heat buildup in greenhouses, skylights, patios, and more. Bright shiny appearance also maximizes light diffusion underneath, improving plant growth. Also ideal for retail garden centers thanks to its cooling and "high tech" appearance.

Shade Cloth FAQ's Part 1

2008-03-06T12:42:00.006-06:00

Shade Cloth FAQ's

WHAT PERCENT SHADE IS BEST FOR ME?
30% Chrysanthemums, Asters, Snapdragons, Geraniums
40% Various Vegetables & Herbs, Iris, Lilies, Gloxinias, Misc. Bedding Plants
50% Bromeliads, Ficus, Orchids (Dendrobiums, Epidendrums, Vandas)
60% Orchids, Azaleas, Ferns, (Oncidiums, Phalaenopsis)
70% Ferns, Philodendron, Orchids (Cypripediums)
80% Ginseng. Great for Patio Shade and Screen. Lets substantial water pass through
90% Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) Heavy Patio Shade
100% Full sun block, no water penetration, basically a tarp, solid material, not woven.

If your plant type is not listed select a % shade of a similar plant type. Most common are 40%, 50% and 60%. The higher % creates greater cooling.

WHY SHOULD I PURCHASE KNITTED INSTEAD OF WOVEN?
Knitted will not unravel but woven will ravel loose. Both hold up well but knitted seems to last longer from the experience I have had with it.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?
We have had shade clothes that are over 12 years old that are still in great shape.

HOW DO I ATTACH?
You can attach with rope, screws, nails, or cable.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET SHADE CLOTH ?
Normally during the Peak Season (March - Sept) Shade Cloth will be shipped within 2 to 3 weeks. The rest of the year it will take 1 to 2 weeks. We try to stock all sizes available but sometimes we are running behind... Just remember that when you need Shade Cloth most of the U.S. needs it also.

WILL SHADE CLOTH ALONE COOL MY GREENHOUSE?
Greenhouses require shade cloth to help prevent plant burn and overheating. For effective greenhouse cooling in a greenhouse shade cloth and appropriately sized ventilation system (FAN) are needed. The Proper light, temperature and humidity are crucial in providing an environment for healthy plant growth and human comfort.

IS BLACK THE ONLY SHADE CLOTH COLOR AVAILABLE?
No, we can get Green, White, Saddle Tan, and Sea Blue in certain shades.

HOW DO I DETERMINE SHADE CLOTH SIZE?
Most greenhouse growers will position shade cloth so that the roof and 2/3 of the side walls are covered. Size your shade cloth panels so that this amount of covering occurs.

ARE CUSTOM SIZES AVAILABLE?
Yes you can get custom sizes.
Click here for a Custom Quote. Always order panel width x length.

DOES SHADE CLOTH GO ON THE OUTSIDE OR INSIDE OF GREENHOUSE?
We prefer to install shade cloth on the exterior of the greenhouse. If placed on the inside the light will be transmitted through the greenhouse and the result will be overheating. Also Shade can be remove if neede for winter.

WILL SHADE CLOTH HARM POLYCARBONATE GREENHOUSE COVERINGS?
Shade cloth on the exterior of polycarbonate is standard practice. It will not harm polycarbonate.

HOW CLOSE ARE THE PIECES OF SHADE CLOTH TO TRUE SIZE?
+/- 1 inch

HOW FAR APART ARE GROMMETS INSTALLED ON THE EDGES OF THE SHADE CLOTH?
Grommets are installed every 2 ft (most common), but if requested we will install every 4 ft or to your custom spacing.

5 reasons why you should use Jiffy® peat products!

2008-03-06T12:37:00.004-06:00

Taken with permission from peat-pots.com
5 reasons why you should use Jiffy® peat products!
1. Jiffy peat products are typically cheaper than their plastic counterparts. [more...]

2. Faster transplanting due to the fact that you no longer need to remove the plants from their pots in order to replant it. [more...]

3. Virtually no transplant shock because the root system is disturbed less during transplanting, and the tops are less likely to be damaged as well. This results in faster overall growth, and healthier plants. [more...]

4. Biodegradable. You no longer have the need to store, clean, sterilize, and replace weak plastic pots. [more...]

5. With pellets you eliminate root girdling, and with proper spacing you achieve natural root pruning. [more...]

6. With Jiffy's® new line of cow pots, you are providing natural fertilizer to the roots as the pot breaks down after transplanting. [more...]

(These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA :)

Getting the most out of your Jiffy® peat pots!
1. When transplanting Jiffy® peat pots, take care to remove or bury the rim of your peat pots so that the rim does not act as a wick to dry out them out. If this occurs it will prevent your Jiffy peat pot from degrading as quickly, and reduce the plant roots ability to grow into it's new environment.

2. Water from the bottom when possible. Peat pots and peat pellets are perfect for bottom watering systems. Bottom watering also reduces the risk of becoming infected with many foliage and stem bacteria and fungi. As a side note, you should excercise caution when bottom watering, not to keep the peat pots and pellets continually soggy, as this can weaken the plants defenses, and increase the risk of your plants succumbing to a root or intravascular disease.

Drip Irrigation Collection - PDF

2008-03-06T11:50:00.005-06:00

Here is a collection of pdf's on various types of drip irrigation.
Chapin Watermatics
Chapin Watermatics 2
Drip Irrigation Layout and Design
Drip Irrigation Production
Spray Tubes
Trickle Stics Specifications
Trickle Stics General Info

Zipper Doors 2 - PDF

2008-03-06T11:05:00.005-06:00

2nd installment of zipper doors pdf

Zipper Doors - PDF

2008-03-06T11:03:00.005-06:00

Here is a newly available pdf on zipper doors

Soil Heating Cables - PDF

2008-03-06T11:01:00.004-06:00

New Pdf available on various Soil Heating Cables

Greenhouse Truss Directions - PDF

2008-03-06T10:58:00.004-06:00

Here is our Greenhouse Truss Directions Pdf

Greenhouse Ends Pictures - PDF

2008-03-06T10:52:00.006-06:00

Here is a pdf containing a collection of pictures of greenhouse ends

Old Quonset Greenhouse Assembly Instructions 16ft thru 28ft - PDF

2008-03-06T10:43:00.011-06:00

Here is a pdf tutorial on assembling the 16 ft thru 28 ft Greenhouses. Click Here for greenhouse directions. It is provided for as reference only. Click Here to view videos also.

Roll Up Sides - PDF

2008-03-06T10:38:00.009-06:00

View Roll Up Sides PDF.

Greenhouse Plastic Project - Part 2 - VIDEO

2008-03-06T10:34:00.011-06:00

For Peat's Sake! - VIDEO

2008-03-06T10:34:00.010-06:00

Greenhouse Plastic Project - Part 1 - VIDEO

2008-03-06T10:33:00.008-06:00

Greenhouse Plastic - VIDEO

2008-03-06T10:32:00.003-06:00