It was quite an effort to get all the wiring completed. It is now all connected to the Rain Bird controller as well as the manual switches on the control panel. We will have a main throw switch that will only send electricity to either the Rain Bird or the Manual control switches to avoid any electrical overloads to the valves.
The control box has a 24v transformer in it similar to the Rain Bird. Each of the valves are 24v AC so a transformer is necessary in the box to convert the 120v AC. So you ask the question...why not just use the Rain Bird to manually control the valves? Rain Bird only allows 1 valve to operate at a time. We need two valves (an input and return) to operate at the same time. We get around this in the "automatic mode" on the Rain Bird by running a main program that opens the input valve and a "drip" program that is allowed to run at the same time to open the return valves.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Greenhouse Review
We have talked and talked, now you get to see it live. We have some internal plumbing, electrical and other miscellaneous work to do and then we will begin grow system installations. We are looking forward to finishing this house so we can get construction underway on the second house before the summer Texas heat hits.
We will be growing blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries hydroponically in this greenhouse. Since we have a wild animal population from Africa, Asia, and North America here on the ranch that would devour these plants in a day, the greenhouse is the only option. Many of these plants need to "winter over" between growing seasons so a protected outdoor environment such as this seemed ideal.
We will be growing blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries hydroponically in this greenhouse. Since we have a wild animal population from Africa, Asia, and North America here on the ranch that would devour these plants in a day, the greenhouse is the only option. Many of these plants need to "winter over" between growing seasons so a protected outdoor environment such as this seemed ideal.
Grow Room Update
We are busting at the seams here in the grow room. The eggplants are taking over with elephant ear sized leaves, we have harvested several zucchini, cucumbers, yellow peppers, and of course fresh romaine lettuce each day.
Our Roma tomatoes are doing much better now that we have raised the pH level to about 6.5 on average and reduced our nutrient levels to the minimum recommendations of Canna.
Our Roma tomatoes are doing much better now that we have raised the pH level to about 6.5 on average and reduced our nutrient levels to the minimum recommendations of Canna.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Greenhouse Construction Update
We had a busy day yesterday accomplishing the following:
Second greenhouse foundation finished
Workbench in first greenhouse installed
Electrical service panel installed
Control box (for solenoid valves, pump, chiller, lights, etc) switches, transformers installed
What we have left to complete:
Plumbing and electrical distribution within greenhouse
Install grow systems (3 Monster Ebb n Gro, 3 Ebb and Flow tables)
Install pump, chiller, and Rain Bird solenoid controller
Install misting system
Install greenhouse gutter system
Second greenhouse foundation finished
Workbench in first greenhouse installed
Electrical service panel installed
Control box (for solenoid valves, pump, chiller, lights, etc) switches, transformers installed
What we have left to complete:
Plumbing and electrical distribution within greenhouse
Install grow systems (3 Monster Ebb n Gro, 3 Ebb and Flow tables)
Install pump, chiller, and Rain Bird solenoid controller
Install misting system
Install greenhouse gutter system
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Second Foundation Almost Finished
We have laid all the cinder block for the second greenhouse foundation. Start back-filling it tomorrow. Busy week with all the greenhouse work. We have not ordered the second house yet though as we want to get all the systems and berry plants going in the first greenhouse before it gets too late.
We are thinking dwarf fruit trees and flowers (roses) in the second greenhouse but have not settled on final plantings as of today.
We are thinking dwarf fruit trees and flowers (roses) in the second greenhouse but have not settled on final plantings as of today.
Plumbing and Electrical
We are still working with the maze of pipe, solenoid valves, control wire and the "space ship" of control boxes for the greenhouse. Can't wait to show it to you.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
We have zucchini
Picked our first zucchini this morning. Just couldn't stand it any longer. This baby is huge! About 12 inches long and 4 inches in diameter. We have many more on the way. The White Eggplants are flowering nicely and we anticipate seeing some eggplant soon. Picking Roma Tomatoes here and there.
Greenhouse Plumbing
We have a unique challenge here with hot (100 degrees plus F) weather in the summer. Not unusual for our "cold' tap water to be 85. We are using a 1 1/2 HP chiller to recirculate the nutrient water from each of our 6 grow systems in the greenhouse every four hours.
3 of the tanks are 75 gallons, 3 are 55 gallons. We are using a Rain Bird sprinkler controller to turn valves on and off automatically. Input valves are controlled as "normal" stations on the controller on one program; the "return" valves are controlled in a simultaneous program running as a "drip" program. May be hard to understand but sprinkler controllers are programmed to only have one valve open at a time to avoid water pressure issues. The controller does allow a "drip" cycle to run simultaneously with a main cycle, in essence, allowing multiple valves to be opened at one time. We are using a pump start relay connected to the controller that will "turn on" the pump upon activation of a valve. This is a normal feature of the Rain Bird that is connected to well water versus normal city water fed by pressure. This whole set-up may be a new and unique application for the Rain Bird in a hydroponic greenhouse.
We will also have "manual" on/off switches for each valve to allow for nutrient mixing and system flushes which will allow us to open and close each solenoid manually. We don't anticipate running the chiller all year round so the Rain Bird controller is in use for 4-6 months a year - the main growing season for our "Berry House"
3 of the tanks are 75 gallons, 3 are 55 gallons. We are using a Rain Bird sprinkler controller to turn valves on and off automatically. Input valves are controlled as "normal" stations on the controller on one program; the "return" valves are controlled in a simultaneous program running as a "drip" program. May be hard to understand but sprinkler controllers are programmed to only have one valve open at a time to avoid water pressure issues. The controller does allow a "drip" cycle to run simultaneously with a main cycle, in essence, allowing multiple valves to be opened at one time. We are using a pump start relay connected to the controller that will "turn on" the pump upon activation of a valve. This is a normal feature of the Rain Bird that is connected to well water versus normal city water fed by pressure. This whole set-up may be a new and unique application for the Rain Bird in a hydroponic greenhouse.
We will also have "manual" on/off switches for each valve to allow for nutrient mixing and system flushes which will allow us to open and close each solenoid manually. We don't anticipate running the chiller all year round so the Rain Bird controller is in use for 4-6 months a year - the main growing season for our "Berry House"
Monday, February 21, 2011
Greenhouse Plumbing and Electrical Service Rough In Done
We sure are glad that a machine called a "Ditch Witch" exists. I have used the beast several times, and once again it came in handy. We completed the hook-ups for the electrical service (60 amps) and the water main to the greenhouse over the weekend.
We started the cabinetry that will house all of the solenoid valves, pump relays, solenoid timer (a Rain Bird sprinkler controller), pump, and chemical storage today. We also began the foundation for the second greenhouse - yes, second greenhouse. The one we had looked so good, we decided to have a sibling. Don't know what we will grow in it yet but my addiction to hydroponics is bordering a trip to rehab.
We started the cabinetry that will house all of the solenoid valves, pump relays, solenoid timer (a Rain Bird sprinkler controller), pump, and chemical storage today. We also began the foundation for the second greenhouse - yes, second greenhouse. The one we had looked so good, we decided to have a sibling. Don't know what we will grow in it yet but my addiction to hydroponics is bordering a trip to rehab.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Greenhouse Finishes Nearing Completion
Wow, there is a lot of weather stripping on windows in a greenhouse. We spent the majority of yesterday working on that task, and after that, the ventilation fans go in. Then we are done (no, really done) with construction of the greenhouse.
We have received all of our grow systems, water tanks, electronic controls, etc and will begin fitting them into the greenhouse next.
Pictures coming soon but we work dawn to dusk without much thought in that time to snap some photos but we will when we finish. We didn't do progress photos as there are a lot of those on the net for Rion Greenhouses if you are interested. The company does produce one of the best products on the market and we are very satisfied with how it has all come together so far.
We have received all of our grow systems, water tanks, electronic controls, etc and will begin fitting them into the greenhouse next.
Pictures coming soon but we work dawn to dusk without much thought in that time to snap some photos but we will when we finish. We didn't do progress photos as there are a lot of those on the net for Rion Greenhouses if you are interested. The company does produce one of the best products on the market and we are very satisfied with how it has all come together so far.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Greenhouse 1 Construction - DONE !
We have 95% of the greenhouse finished. Little things like weather stripping windows, getting the louver and roof vent auto-openers/closers installed remain. After that, the fun stuff begins - getting the electrical, plumbing, and grow systems installed.
We had a busy day today. Once the foundation was finished the actual greenhouse construction only took about a day and a half. A few friends helped raise the roof, the only part that took about 6 people to do. The roof is built as a unit and then lifted onto the greenhouse frame. The roof is not heavy, just long and awkward. Just like they said in the video. Everything else went together perfectly. Thanks Rion for producing such a great product!
We had a busy day today. Once the foundation was finished the actual greenhouse construction only took about a day and a half. A few friends helped raise the roof, the only part that took about 6 people to do. The roof is built as a unit and then lifted onto the greenhouse frame. The roof is not heavy, just long and awkward. Just like they said in the video. Everything else went together perfectly. Thanks Rion for producing such a great product!
Greenhouse Foundation Complete
We have been busy this past week. The greenhouse kit arrived; we have laid a pad for the foundation; completed a cinder block foundation; completed the first phase of construction (the roof) and will begin assembly of the main portion of the greenhouse today.
The Monster Ebb n Gro systems, Merlin Garden Pro R.O. system, Tall Blue Pre-Filter and assorted electrical and plumbing equipment is all here.
We have placed the orders for the Raspberry, Blackberry, Strawberry, and Blueberry plants that will have a very nice home in this greenhouse.
The pad was laid in such a way that a second greenhouse could be added easily and will be once we finish the first one.
The Monster Ebb n Gro systems, Merlin Garden Pro R.O. system, Tall Blue Pre-Filter and assorted electrical and plumbing equipment is all here.
We have placed the orders for the Raspberry, Blackberry, Strawberry, and Blueberry plants that will have a very nice home in this greenhouse.
The pad was laid in such a way that a second greenhouse could be added easily and will be once we finish the first one.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Greenhouse and Equipment Selection
Now that we have made the choice to move outside, here is the "plan"
Greenhouse: Rion Prestige, 8' 6'' x 24 ' (see http://www.riongreenhousekit.com/rionprestige.php). We have included two louvered venting fans (hot in Texas), the automatic roof vent and side louver openers as well as a shade screen.
Water Management: 300 gallon main water tank supplied by a Merlin Garden Pro 750 GPD R.O. system with automatic shutoff kit and Tall Blue Chlorine pre-filter. For water mixing and reservoirs for the Ebb and Flow grow tables we are using 75 gallon stack-able units. The water tanks are from Global Industrial (see http://www.globalindustrial.com). We chose the tanks due to their size, shapes, and industrial quality for outdoor use.
Growing Systems: We chose 3 Monster Ebb n Gro units to plant our Red Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, dwarf Meyers Lemon and Fig trees. These units have 5 gallon planter capacities and support up to 12 planters per system. We will start with 6 on each as the default configuration or 5, 5, and 8 depending on plant purchases / nutrient requirements.
Ebb and Flow Tables: We chose Botanicare 3'x6'x7" trays for the strawberries. They will be supplied nutrients from 3 different 75 gallon nutrient storage tanks by 900 gph Bluestone pumps.
Nutrients: Although we have had great success with the Canna product line, we are going to give the General Hydroponics product line a go in the greenhouse. They are slightly less expensive - especially on the blooming stage supplements. Canna Boost is WAY expensive.
Foundation for Greenhouse: we will construct a standard cinder block foundation to secure the greenhouse, raise it about 8-10 inches, and provide for a nice floor with proper drainage. We will use 3/4 inch stone aggregate as a base and a crushed fill material that will be compacted.
Pictures / Video updates to come !
Greenhouse: Rion Prestige, 8' 6'' x 24 ' (see http://www.riongreenhousekit.com/rionprestige.php). We have included two louvered venting fans (hot in Texas), the automatic roof vent and side louver openers as well as a shade screen.
Water Management: 300 gallon main water tank supplied by a Merlin Garden Pro 750 GPD R.O. system with automatic shutoff kit and Tall Blue Chlorine pre-filter. For water mixing and reservoirs for the Ebb and Flow grow tables we are using 75 gallon stack-able units. The water tanks are from Global Industrial (see http://www.globalindustrial.com). We chose the tanks due to their size, shapes, and industrial quality for outdoor use.
Growing Systems: We chose 3 Monster Ebb n Gro units to plant our Red Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, dwarf Meyers Lemon and Fig trees. These units have 5 gallon planter capacities and support up to 12 planters per system. We will start with 6 on each as the default configuration or 5, 5, and 8 depending on plant purchases / nutrient requirements.
Ebb and Flow Tables: We chose Botanicare 3'x6'x7" trays for the strawberries. They will be supplied nutrients from 3 different 75 gallon nutrient storage tanks by 900 gph Bluestone pumps.
Nutrients: Although we have had great success with the Canna product line, we are going to give the General Hydroponics product line a go in the greenhouse. They are slightly less expensive - especially on the blooming stage supplements. Canna Boost is WAY expensive.
Foundation for Greenhouse: we will construct a standard cinder block foundation to secure the greenhouse, raise it about 8-10 inches, and provide for a nice floor with proper drainage. We will use 3/4 inch stone aggregate as a base and a crushed fill material that will be compacted.
Pictures / Video updates to come !
We're Expanding - OUTSIDE
Well the time has come. We are out of space indoors and there are several more plants we want to experiment with hydroponically. Strawberries, Red Raspberries, Blackberries, Meyers Lemons, and Figs (dwarf) are on the top of our list.
Raspberries and Blackberries have a dormancy requirement and although we could uproot them and put them in our walk-in game cooler on the ranch, it wasn't practical for us. The Meyers Lemons can be put in the house during brutally cold times (like this past week - 11 degrees in Central Texas !), the figs we are still sorting out.
We have looked at greenhouses and have decided it was best to install one due to all the animals we have here that would decimate any of these plants we attempt to grow hydroponically outdoors.
Raspberries and Blackberries have a dormancy requirement and although we could uproot them and put them in our walk-in game cooler on the ranch, it wasn't practical for us. The Meyers Lemons can be put in the house during brutally cold times (like this past week - 11 degrees in Central Texas !), the figs we are still sorting out.
We have looked at greenhouses and have decided it was best to install one due to all the animals we have here that would decimate any of these plants we attempt to grow hydroponically outdoors.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)