New Lettuce System In The Greenhouse

I have been working closely with the good people from Spring Hill Farms in Ontario Canada and they have graciously helped me to create a hydroponics system very similar to the one that they have on their farm. Take a look at both this one and please go to the Spring Hill Farm Channel here: / @growwiththelaplantes
and look at the original system.
Thank you Wayne and Patti Chalmers for all of the time that you sacrificed in answering all of my questions along the way!

[@50shadesofgreen]

Blooming marvelous Chuck !! It's look fantastic, all working well and you first crops in the new system. Whoo hoo !! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you Simon. I'm adding more troughs to the system today and building the seed starting station as well. Chuck

[@Mrsnufleupagus]

Crazy how simple the set up is and what kind of awesome produce it will provide! Well done sir, bring on Spring:)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

AMEN! Thanks again! Come on Spring!!! Chuck

[@jeffschmidt8491]

👍 thanks getting back I be getting back with more questions later on thanks

[@coachkesey]

Looks fantastic. Good idea

[@terrykingsallotmentgardening]

Hello Chuck, very simple idea and after the build, the running costs are minimal. Take care my friend. 🌱Happy Gardening my friend, Terry.

[@renitaisbon6351]

Thank you great video, you explained quite a few questions.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Glad to help! Have a great day! Chuck

[@MrVSMAGIC]

Thank you very much for sharing. The best video on hydrophonics.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thanks for the compliment. Hope it helps? Stay safe. Chuck

[@lyleoverley2578]

Good job Chuck, you had a very good teacher!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Lyle Overley thanks so much! I did. Chuck

[@DaleCalderCampobello]

Great system I'm glad you showed that view of the back end of it because I couldn't figure out how it was returning the nutrient solution.

[@jeremiasdevin7295]

pro tip: watch movies on Kaldrostream. I've been using it for watching all kinds of movies these days.

[@bjorntoby3320]

@Jeremias Devin Yup, been watching on kaldroStream for since november myself =)

[@NovaScotiaLiving]

Wow so efficient. Thanks for sharing

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you for following me along my friend! Chuck

[@zelphiaellerson6283]

Wow! That's an impressive system!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you so much. Chuck

[@KeepOnGrowin]

Very nice! I have been using the downspouts without the irrigation like the Kratky set up. I may try this on a small scale, thanks much!

[@KeepOnGrowin]

Also, love your tip with the mason jar, I have been using gloves and it gets kinda warm, lol.

[@PEN7367]

Mike VanDuzee I

[@KeepOnGrowin]

PEN7367 Thanks much!

[@PetesBackGarden]

Great video Chuck. DIY and gardening = awesome 👏✌️

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you so much Pete! Chuck

[@PetesBackGarden]

Loving the new slower guitar intro too. Very chilled

[@PetesBackGarden]

In the U.K. A downspout is called a downpipe and ours are mostly circular

[@monnakau4935]

Very good Idea. And Daniel i like your music.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

monna Kau I thank you and so does Daniel! Chuck

[@asdasdfasfasdfasdf]

awesome vid mate - what people don't realise is all the hard work you've gone to not only create your hydro farm but the effort required to film & edit such a great video of what you've managed to build & upload ... thanks for sharing, top effort!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Herb Cortes thank you for that comment. People really don't realize what goes into all of this. Chuck

[@plantingseedsforlife2138]

That watermelon is a beauty. Wow that is some lawn fertilizer!!!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

It was a 35 pound Jubilee and my largest of the season. Thanks for following me along in this journey! Chuck

[@andymaendel3120]

Good work my friend

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you

[@ShipmanAdventures]

I'll be interested to see the results, looks great. I saw a system designed close to that one except they angled short sections and had a little clip to hold net cups, but it was vertical on an A frame. They tripled there production in the same greenhouse and looked like great results too. Best of luck!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I may be doing something like that (vertical setup) in the near future for my strawberries. The do really well in those configurations. Thanks for the suggestion! Chuck

[@waynestamand2738]

Very Nice! Can't wait to see the new greens. It does look like Wayne's system. You are going to be one very busy guy. Wish you the best!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you Wayne! I am very envious of both you and Diane. I will make it out to their farm in the near future though! Take care my friend! Chuck

[@waynestamand2738]

Might try and go see you also when you have your other greenhouses up and running.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Would love to meet both of you Wayne! I will begin to build the new houses in about a month. Chuck

[@waynestamand2738]

We talking about a year or two.

[@ChristasGarden]

That is so freaking cool! Looking forward to seeing your lettuce grow. Nice watermelon btw. :)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Christa's Garden thanks Christa. That was a 35 pound Jubilee and my largest melon of the season.

[@ChristasGarden]

That's great! Bigger than any of mine this year but I can't complain either. Jubilee was my biggest watermelon last year.

[@MJ-gk8zd]

very cool love your channel and spring hill farms as well. Hope to one day soon have a similar operation

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you very much. I would love to see your operation as you put it together and both Spring Hill Farms and I would be glad to help if you need any information along the way! We can certainly tell you what not to do if nothing else! lol chuck

[@CBsGreenhouseandGarden]

Very nice looking rail system ya built! I see you hit the wrong nail did ya? Ouch thumb... Man that was some rain coming down! Loving this new lettuce rail! Can't wait to see how well it works out for ya. Nice idea on how to melt that gutter over the mason jar. You are the man with the plan I tell ya!! Keep up the great work my friend!!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thanks CB. Lots going on at the farm and its hard to get it all done and even harder to remember to document lots of it on video! lol Chuck

[@FesterWerks]

I'm laying money I'll be revisiting this video in the future :) (And Spring Hill Farms...)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

How are you doing Mark. Miss seeing you! Ill check out you channel to see if KZbin has forgotten to notify me of your new videos! Chuck

[@eddysgreenhousegarden7022]

Boy have you been busy Chuck. I get tired just watching you. It's all looking real good Ed

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thanks Ed! I finished tearing down the greenhouses and have all of them on my property now. Still hauling tables from that site though! This one will be a leafy green greenhouse only! I will start construction in about a month! Chuck

[@philsla]

No wonder you have been kinda MIA on videos! WOW, what a great amount of work in such a short amount of time. Excited for you and excited to watch this grand experiment progress! Looking good!!!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Life on the farm has been hectic to say the least this summer. So much going on and never enough time. Thanks for the kind words Phil and thank you for your continued support. Chuck

[@tempsdequalite2522]

Thank you Mr. For your present our Canadian people on Good way. saying - I have been working closely with the good people from Spring Hill Farms in Ontario Canada. You to are so professional on your work. Im personaly your big fun on your work as an tuber and I learn a lot from you. From an American I see know now all Americans are not vioilant racist selfish and mean. I just can tell you as a mormon Canadian Good Bless You in Christ name Amen.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you so much for those kind words! To be completely honest with you I would have to say that the people from Spring Hill Farms are the best friends that I have on You Tube. I can't even begin to tell you how much they have helped me this year. The media in America is very corrupt and they paint a very ugly picture of what the majority of our people are really like. If you get the opportunity to visit our country I believe that you will be very impressed. Thanks again my friend and may God bless you and your family! Chuck

[@MommaGotATractor]

My farmer friend from Dragonwater Farm is going to grow hemp in Dutch Buckets. I recommended your channel to him yesterday. Your farm is amazing Chuck!! Thanks for sharing!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I'd be glad to help him. I hope he is planning to do it under cover somehow, like in a greenhouse of some kind. Dutch or beta buckets don't work well for large plants like that out in the open where rain can throw the EC and pH out of whack. Thanks for the support sis! Chuck

[@MommaGotATractor]

@@FensterfarmGreenhouse He is in the process of building a greenhouse. It's the ideal way to grow CBD medicine. You are both onto something great here = ) Can't stop talking about how cool your channel is...I so appreciate you sharing everything you are doing. You're work ethic is off the rails! Glad your son is back in town and hope it's permanent = )

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

We'd love to show it to y'all if you are ever in the Memphis TN area! Thanks sister! Chuck

[@MommaGotATractor]

@@FensterfarmGreenhouse that would be awesome = ) Thank you = )

[@hurdman7899]

Great idea to use the vinyl downspouts. Suggestion: Drill another hole next to the "feed" hole in each downspout. Then when you pull the downspout to harvest and clean, you can pull out the feed line and just move it into the one next to it. When you replant and install, just move the tube back. You won't have to shut off the system.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Already did that. That was the only suggestion that Patti (from Spring Hill Farms) had for me when I showed the system to her before I posted the video. Great suggestion though!!! You must have something like this? Chuck

[@hibarnita]

great sir, i dreaming when i can get that pvc

[@nasexzy]

This is what i called an all in one video. I learned a lot watching the video. So i have 70x100 ft land i will like to turn into a farm. I have been going through different system and so far i find this very useful. Can you teach me in details how to build the system. I will so much appreciate. Once again, great video.

[@deadpresident78]

That is one kind of grommet. You should keep looking they do get very cheap and reusable for a very long time. I like the ones that are double sided. I have also used them at 2 inches on deep current HO systems with water chillers.

[@deadpresident78]

PS. This is what I would call a shallow current hydro system. There is a difference if you cap each end enough to build up a water level in each trough. The new water coming in replenishes the old. Saves lots on electrical. Most importantly though you will notice your water(chem) wont evaporate as fast as it does without it.

[@tangobayus]

Based on what I'm seeing in other systems 12" seems like a better spacing because of the size of the heads they are getting- Spring Hill Farm is an example. They are also getting 2-3 cuttings, which gets the most value out of the root systems.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

tangobayus Not necessarily. Some things like Kale and Greens need the extra space. 9 inches is almost perfect for most lettuce. Managing space is where the money is made so adding even an inch between 14 or 15 holes in each tough and multiplying that by 400 troughs will cost you significantly with production. I believe I have it down to a science now. Take a look at some of my more recent videos! Thanks for following along! Chuck

[@tangobayus]

Thanks. You might look at the quincunx method of laying out orchards as a possible way to use space more efficiently in NFT systems. That's what I'm planning to use.

[@MJ-gk8zd]

I also thought you could use your mason jar on the other end to make a spout for the water to exit the trough but thought your idea was patent worthy!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Great idea. You may see that in an upcoming video if that water begins to splash out of the gutter. Chuck

[@nalingosalia7667]

thanks , your idea of heating and folding one end is great . Its fairly open system , do you have algae problem , if so what do you do.The very thing its a successful venture you have been able to sort it , so your guidance will be appreciated

[@forageforage3520]

Chuck did you really say "bomb bizzle"? I laughed pretty hard... OK.. I'm using that term now.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Yeah... I probably picked that up from either my wife or one of my kids somewhere along the line! LOL Chuck

[@sanjaysrivastava1100]

Nice music

[@jeffkrueger8939]

Hi Chuck, great video. I was wondering how people where getting that bend on the bottom of the downspout. My question is how do you keep the algae from growing like crazy. If I just have a tiny crack, it's starts growing like crazy. Thanks again for the video, Jeff

[@AnOldSchoolHome]

That is SO MUCH work Chuck! Amazing! How do you find time for all that???

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Some folks sleep. Seem like I am not getting much of it these days! Thanks Sasha! Chuck

[@AnOldSchoolHome]

:) 8 hours of sleep a day keeps the doctors away :))

[@edgarsrooftopgardentours5927]

Ive noticed that the diatance was so very closed, mqybe depends on the plants fo hydrophonics...happy planting, cheers

[@forageforage3520]

Chuck would it be possible to get the part number and where you got those rubber grommets for the 1/4" drip line ?

[@BenjasUberHobby]

I want to do a system almost like this :) It is really cool. I am assuming that you are going to have to paint the IBC and cover the return to help prevent algae growth. Or get some algae eaters :) I know this is not complete and that i have not caught up yet so I can't wait to see this done :)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

The system has been running for about 8 months now and Algae hasn't been a problem. I covered the tank wit both a layer of black plastic then covered that with a layer of white plastic to keep it cooler. The returns are still uncovered. Chuck

[@hevra5991]

You should try it the the other way around, water fall feeding in and half inch tube with pump feeding out

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Do you have a video of the other way. I’m extremely happy with the way that I am doing this but I am always looking to improve. Please send me an example of what you are talking about. Thanks. Chuck

[@TheEmptynester]

That is a great ideal. Chuck. Are you leaving the plants as pods inside or adding net cups. I have been thinking of what to do with spinach.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

No net cups needed for this system E as long as I use the Oasis Root Cubes. That media is really easy to work with and doesn't come apart in the system Chuck

[@ryanwillett728]

What size pump are you running? I am about 90% done with my greenhouse structure and getting ready to build the hydro table. I have a 5 tray in the house, but the 250 gph pump system isn't going to be anywhere near enough. I need upscale my water flow but am having trouble figuring out the plumbing. your setup looks fairly easy to follow, couple questions though, when you need to replace the tank water, how do you purge?

[@BruceBrandt59]

That is much nicer than the setup that I did. My question, are there end caps available for that downspout? Also a concern for algae growth in the return since it is open. Please do an update later. You know that you are appreciated.

[@twobears1224]

Yes there is end caps for the downspouts.. i,I, find the info and post it here tomorrow.a lady in MI makes them.

[@twobears1224]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYTYnKB4jriors0

[@romeomifsud9124]

Hi l like this method you are using what do you do if the power goes out and what is it you are using to put the seedling in is it a pot a cube cannot make out what it is.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I have a backup generator for when there is an interruption in power. The seedling is started in a 1" oasis cube and that is all I use. We dont use net cups. The oasis cube sits directly in the trough. Chuck

[@jp3615]

Hello Chuck, thanks for the very nice video. Could you please tell me the degree of inclination of the growing tubs?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

3” drop from front to back. The troughs are 10’ long. Hope that helps? Chuck

[@jp3615]

Hey Chuck thanks a lot for your fast and clear response, very well appreciated. I have another question, have you got to deal with root rot (pythium) in your lettuce?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Juan Pablo Sell Rojas no. I did when I used Aquaponics instead of Hydroponics. I quit using the fish years ago though. Chuck

[@jeffsullivan3362]

Saw you at Spring Hill Farms and couldn't help but wonder if it might be more advantageous to just put the seedlings in their grow out tray and cut down on the labor of transplanting twice?

[@keithlane7558]

hi chuck what a great system keep up the good work. I've not had any experience with hydroponics but very interested and would like to set up a small system. Could you please tell me and I am sorry if it's a stupid question, why do you have two pipes to feed the nutrients could it not go from the tote on one pipe and feed tubes from that one directly to your plant trough? Keith

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Keith Lane you absolutely could use one but I use 2 because I’ll be running the feed 200 linear feet. 100 feet on each side. The secondary feed pipe has a ball valve that will allow me to adjust the flow for each 10 foot section giving me a more consistent pressure. When you have longer lengths to deal with most of the pressure can be lost near the end. Hope that makes sense. Chuck

[@Grow365atHome]

What model or pump is it and is it quite? Do you recommend ?

[@bhaskarv465]

Good

[@umbrellaofartsofficialchan1917]

wow man you are God we 350 families worship you here

[@brianbates7572]

Buy your grommets wholesale at Grangers. Much better pricing, need to establish an account with them.

[@daveeckert9851]

Thanks this is very helpful. I’ve heard algae could be a problem where light hits the nutrient solution. Do you have any algae problems with the uncovered drain gutter?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

It will eventually become a problem. You will need to clean out the gutters periodically.

[@DocKingliveshere]

Looks good, but, how do you get to the plants past your reach for pruning/picking/replacing? My arms are only about a yard long...

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Slide it back and rest to on the other side

[@RC62264]

Hey Chuck looks cool. How do you plant the middle sections? No way you can reach all the way to the end or do the spouts just sit up there? Also I have been busy with work did the Aquaponics not work out? I will go back and look to see. Thanks love the videos!

[@gotcha9934]

Rick Cragg I think the whole pipe can be lifted and move for planting and put back

[@gus5265]

Does anyone know where to find these down spouts in Canada? Thanks

[@Grow365atHome]

Hi Chuck what size pump do you have? Im getting ibc in couple of week's and then ill start plumbing Thank you for all the help videos and advise thanks again Ralph

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

RALPH HAYWOOD it’s a 3/4 HP in ground pool pump. I have it so I can adjust the pressure by pumping it down the supply lines and allowing some to go directly back into the reservoir with a ball valve to regulate the pressure. Chuck

[@Grow365atHome]

Thank you keep up the good work

[@thefaeryman]

considering all the labor, those trays are not that expensive these days to buy already to go. I think I will need a real greenhouse to do this in. if you call the grommets electrical, they cost less best

[@caseywilson812]

do you still like the 8" spacing for the finished lettuce product?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

For the lettuce, yes. I will be putting more space between the Kale and chard in the future though! Chuck

[@timmcwilliams8024]

Congratulations Chuck that looks great! I have been wondering what spring Hill Farm used to put it together. Thanks for all the detail. Been considering doing something like that. What's the fertilizer mix? And what do you do the starts in rockwool?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I am using a product called Oasis Root cubes. Kind of pricey but it has an amazing germination rate and doesn't gum up the system. I am still using up my masterblend 5-18-38 but will probably move to the Hydroponic Legumes 6-11-31 that Wayne uses. He gets it from Plant Products Co Chuck

[@timmcwilliams8024]

Fensterfarm Greenhouse thanks for the info! I've got a bit of the master blend too. But I'll look into the other.

[@oby-1607]

Very interesting. What pump are you using size, voltage, model, make, inlets, outlets? Also, what pressure are you getting at the 3/4 junctions from the 2 inch pipe. Also, what size and type is your return gutter. Thanks for sharing.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Oby-1 it’s a jacuzzi 1 1/2 HP pool pump. No ideas on the pressure at the junctions? I know I have way more than I need. I have to send water directly back into the reservoir before it heads into the 1 1/2” delivery lines to keep the pressure down so it doesn’t blow my grommets out.. The return gutters are standard Amerimax vinyl rain gutters. 10 foot long. Hope that helps? Chuck

[@oby-1607]

@@FensterfarmGreenhouse Thanks for the reply. On INYOPOOLS.com I was studying the cost of running a pump and they were saying variable rate horsepower pumps can save as much as 80% of running costs if dialed down. I imagine this would also have an effect on pressure and volume of flow. Anytime I start a new process, I try to look at the annual cost of operation as this always affects the overall bottom line of economics of farming. Thank you again.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Oby-1 very true. Whatever you decide to do... do it with 2 pumps. You need to build in redundancy. I found out the hard way. Chuck

[@masterlee6828]

What is the rubbe's name that you inserted in to the pipe?

[@nov51947]

Hi Chuck. I've watched your videos and Wayne's videos several times and I think I've got the details down now. I have two gray areas though...(1) Wayne says he uses an above ground pool pump, and you mention aquarium pumps. I'm planning on about a 25 foot setup (say 25 downspouts) and I wonder if an aquarium pump is adequate...but the only other pump I already have is a 5 hp well pump, which seems like overkill. Any suggestions? and (2) Can you recommend some sources to learn about nutrient solutions, and additives for topping off the tanks? Keep up the good work...remember: WE'RE WATCHING YOU!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Some Southern Stuff I use a jacuzzi pump in my trough (downspout) system. I use an aquarium pump on my seed germination system. I add nutrients until I reach a 1.8 CE. Hope all is well Karl Chuck

[@moysfree6660]

good video but if those grommets I'm so expensive why not just run of flexible polyurethane one in tubing that you can puncture your lines and install with connectors it's much cheaper and will hold the pressure you just have to attach the polyurethane flexible line to the solid PVC which is it hard

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Moys Free are you talking about the standard irrigation tubing? I actually use that for some of my smaller hydroponic systems but it doesn’t scale out as well. This 3000 Square foot Greenhouse will have over 300 feet of contiguous feet of feed and adjusting the pressure from beginning to end with one big pump doesn’t work well with the tubing and fittings for it. Hope that makes sense? Chuck

[@forageforage3520]

So I notice, the you litterlly have the medium sitting right on the bottom of the NFT rail. Are you still doing it that way 2019? I like the quart mason jar technique to heat mold the end! Great Idea. Thanks

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thanks. I do still sit the cube/roots directly on the bottom of each rail. This system is amazing. I would put the lettuce that comes from my system against anybody's! Cant wait to see yours! Chuck

[@forageforage3520]

Thanks a bunch Chuck. Always enjoy the videos.

[@lawrencecushshon8195]

Larry Backyard Farmer : Hi Chuck I've been watching you, Wayne and mph gardener and I have finally completed my greenhouse. My problem is that I can't find the fertilizer Wayne uses I was told it was no longer available. What fertilizer do you use, where can I get it and how do you mix it. I presently use Master blend but I haven't been getting the same results you guys have.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Bobby Smith helped you build your greenhouse? Tell both Wayne and Bobby I said hi. I actually use Masterblend and Epsom salts. I run mine at a higher EC than Wayne does with his product. I keep it between 1.8 a d 2.1.Keep the pH ay 6.5. Hope that helps

[@lawrencecushshon8195]

I actually copied your trough setup.Thanks for the info I'll try this.

[@RavinderKumar-sx9df]

Sir how you are seeding and what source you use for it.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Ravinder Kumar I use a medium called Oasis cubes. It’s made from a potato starch I believe. Chuck

[@irvinwittmeier5208]

I wonder if the rain gutter pvc is a safe plastic to use for food plants becouse of chemicals leaching out

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Irvin Wittmeier it’s the same downspouts and company that made my rain catchment system.

[@jadhlb6879]

Irvin Wittmeier

[@user-qr5nm2jt4v]

Wow

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Thank you Chuck

[@jinlawrie672]

Love the American accent :)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

lol. Thank you! Chuck

[@lkhbhydroponic6858]

Awesome work. How do you deal with heat in summer? Is it a problem in green house? Also do you worry about green stuff that grow on return cutter?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I am getting pretty good at dealing with algae. I had to figure that out with the aquaponics system. I have a water wall that will manage the heat pretty well unless it gets too humid outside. Chuck

[@lkhbhydroponic6858]

Fensterfarm Greenhouse thanks you

[@billbobaggins7617]

Do you still like your gutter return drain or did you find it leaks? I'm at the stage of setting my greenhouse up, but I can't find a good way to return the water to the reservoir

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Mine hasn’t leaked. I use 2 methods now. Gutters and 6” pipe.

[@billbobaggins7617]

@@FensterfarmGreenhouse did you split the 6" pipe or how are you going about that

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

@@billbobaggins7617 I cut 4” holes in it. That pipe is way too expensive now. Pvc has gone through the roof since Biden took office! Lol

[@merlebonner1665]

How do you keep the algae from building up

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

You’re going to have a little algae growing in the open ends of each trough and in the return gutters. I clean the troughs with soapy bleach water between planting and the return gutters get scraped with a putty knife as I clear out sections and catch the debris at the reservoir in a paint strainer. Hope that helps? Chuck

[@masf1977]

Very nice set up! Where did you purchase the grommets for the feed line?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Bay Hydroponics. 1/4” inside diameter top hat grommets. Tell them fensterfarm sent you.

[@masf1977]

Fensterfarm Greenhouse thanks 🙏

[@jukkaokslahti8779]

Hello! I wonder what kind of material you are using as a pipeline? :)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Schedule 40 PVC Chuck

[@jeffschmidt8491]

Hi what is The length of your downspouts are you using 3x4

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

10 feet.

[@ryanwillett728]

The top hat grommets and tubing you are using, what size are they?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

The tubing for the feed lines are 3/4" pvc and the top hat grommets are 3/8" OD with 1/4" ID. The feed line tubing is 1/4". Chuck

[@ryanwillett728]

Thanks! I'm using 1/4" tubing on my inside table from a 1/2" supply line, but the Green house I just built I tubed in 3/4 pvc and was wanting to use the same concept for top hats and tube. I ordered some TH's but they looked smaller than yours so i was curious what sizes you went with... looks like I got it right ;) Thanks for the feed back - great channel!

[@janetteharris4475]

Do you have any idea the average cost of electricity to run the system?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Janette Harris Not for that specific system. My electric bill in that Greenhouse is about 100 to 200 dollars a month. That includes a well pump

[@GammaSpeaks]

How far apart do you place your channels?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Sterling A.C. Kent 12 inch centers

[@jasonpatterson8091]

That's a very interesting setup; it looks like it should work really well. How big is the pump? Does it run 24/7? I'm trying to figure what the electricity bill would be for moving all that nutrient solution around, particularly considering the amount that is recirculating directly into the tank (and how much smaller a pump I could get away with trying to do something similar on a smaller scale.) I trust that you did the math at some point; I'm just curious. :-)

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

The pump does indeed run 24/7 and there is a ton of power to spare. I should be able to fill this house with troughs and use that one pump. Wayne runs his whole lettuce off of one pump (identical to mine), and his greenhouse is about 10 feel longer than mine. Chuck

[@theokeechobeegardener8014]

Do you not use Epson salt( magnesium sulfate) in you nutrient tank?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

OkeechobeeGardner yes I do. The leafy greens don’t require much though.

[@edwinlynch2413]

what is your overall cost to grow hydroponic lettuce using the channel method

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

That all depends on the size of the operation. Overhead can be pricey. Greenhouse and infrastructure are expensive.

[@claudettemonty4077]

I look at your gutters? The long white trick that you putting the plants in water. I think I saw that the end are opened??

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

They are open at both ends. The nutrients flow downhill to a return that takes it back to the reservoir. It’s a closed loop system. Hope that helps? Chuck

[@ohigan]

Get yourself a drill press and a guide and you could knock off a length of gutter in a fraction of the time you can with a hand drill!!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

That would be awesome. I may do that since I have about 200 more to do! Thanks for the idea! Chuck

[@rodsboots]

You've been running this for a while, how's it working out?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

It’s turned into a successful business. Thanks Chuck

[@muhammadhafizh2549]

What kinds of pipes which u use, sir?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Those are 3” by 4” rain barrel downspouts

[@lendaryreviews]

😎👍

[@brandylee7174]

Why did you get rid of the aquaponic flood system and convert over ? Just looking for input and different perspectives as I’m currently in the planning stages of an aquaponic set up

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Brandy Lee i was never able to master growing my leafy greens in that environment the way that I have with this hydroponic trough system. I turn out a much better product and 10 times as much in a 3 month span with it too. I am giving the fish, the 1200 gallon tank and the filtration system to Daniel from Goforgreenliving. I’m a new commercial farm now so I need this to be as profitable as possible. Hope that made sense? Chuck

[@brandylee7174]

Fensterfarm Greenhouse absolutely thank you so much for such an incredibly quick response (15 min that must be a record ! ). One more question I posted on another video, what do u recommend for flooring ? We were thinking weed barrier but were concerned with durability and traffic. And were concerned mulch would invite pest into the green house.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Brandy Lee I think I answered it. Go with a woven fabric Greenhouse flooring. I get mine in 10 foot by 300 foot rolls. It will last 10 years or there about. Mine is 2 years old and in perfect condition. The lady that sold me 3 of my Greenhouses still has her flooring and it was 13 years old. Hope that helps. Chuck

[@brandylee7174]

Fensterfarm Greenhouse thanks so much I just didn’t receive the notification sorry to make you retype it thanks so much again what your doing is awesome

[@1cnugent1]

There are different sizes of downspout. Which size did you use? Great system BTW!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I believe these are all 2 inches x 3 inches and 10 feet long

[@1cnugent1]

Thank you for the prompt reply....Happy growing from Northern Idaho.

[@bobmaverick5160]

Chuck is your water system still set up in this fashion? Did you or would you change anything about your set up? I am getting ready to start building on with about 200 tubes.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

The only thing that I have changed is spacing the troughs at 7 inches apart instead of 8 and 5 inches where the nursery troughs go. Chuck

[@bobmaverick5160]

Thank you.

[@leerike694]

are those downspouts 2”x3” or 3”x4” ?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

2x3.

[@andyacz6819]

Nice system. Do you just put the peat foam with the plant without the basket in it?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Yes. The medium that I use is called oasis. it is made from potato starch I believe. Chuck

[@andyacz6819]

Thanks for your answer! That way looks very practical, you don´t need to spend in growing baskets and your time putting your plants in them (at large scale that may be a good advantage). I´m still designing how my system will be.

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I would love to see it when it is done! Send me a video! Chuck

[@andyacz6819]

Sure!

[@theokeechobeegardener8014]

Can you please tell me where you got the grommets? I have a set up similar but did not think of using the grommets please help !

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I ordered them through Amazon Prime, They are made by Bay Hydro. (Bay Hydro 1/4" ID Top Hat Grommets THG 100pcs), They were $49,99

[@theokeechobeegardener8014]

Thank You very much for your help!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

No Worries! Glad to help! Chuck

[@theokeechobeegardener8014]

Have you had any algae growth problems? It will get bad quick to where it will clog up the emitters in the system. I was just wondering if you had a problem up there in Florida it is much hotter and it will take over quick. Have all the tanks blackened out and the PVC lines also. Thank You!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Minimal algae. Keep your reservoir covered in white plastic. It keeps the water cooler and the light out! The little algae thar makes it to the reservoir will die off or go dormant before recycling through the feed lined Chuck

[@arlenejohnson9597]

where did you find the troughs to plant in??

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Lowes is where I got mine. I liked them a little better than the ones that Home Depot had cause the ridges that run the length on both sides are a little more defined and it makes keeping the holes that you will have to drill straighter! Chuck

[@arlenejohnson9597]

Thanks sooo much!

[@LingJunZhang]

where the lettuce grow in ?? a plastic basket? or ?

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

I start the lettuce seeds in a product called oasis cubes. Once the lettuce germinates and is tall enough I place the cube with the lettuce directly into these troughs. There is no need for a net cup or basket. Chuck

[@pankii]

Hi Chuck, Could you help me out with a few questions about the grommet as they aren't available where I am located, trying to find similar but require a few more details: What is the height of the grommet? What is the top hat outer diameter, as in not the top hole, but the collar outer diameter around the top hole? What is the height of the collar of the grommet? Thanks for all your help, appreciate it!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

The tubing for the feed lines are 3/4" pvc and the top hat grommets are 3/8" OD with 1/4" ID. The feed line tubing is 1/4". Chuck

[@pankii]

Hi Chuck, Thanks for the quick reply, appreciate it. However I believe you didn't understand my questions, I was referring to the grommet, if standing upright, what is the height of the grommet from the bottom to the top of the grommet? And then what is the individual height of the top collar of the grommet, as well as the length of the collar of the grommet from end to end. Perhaps I can send you a diagram of the measurements I am looking for by e-mail? Thank you again for all your help!

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

individual height (5/8") the top collar of the grommet (1/8"), the length of the collar of the grommet (1/2") I measured one and that is as close as I can get! hope that helps Chuck

[@pankii]

Hi Chuck! Yes does that help tremendously thank you very much!

[@pankii]

Hi Chuck, I had a few more questions if you don't mind answering. The venturi water system, does it also go back down deep into the water tank similar to the feed line pipe? And size of the pipes are all the same for the feed line and the venturi pipe, 1 and 1/2 inch? Thank again Chuck! Pankaj

[@dezusexe6075]

Hi, Wonderful video, I wish you best of luck. Got sugestion: I see you used channel for drain, which is good way, but for easier maintenance I'd use nontransparent pipes & tank, beacause of the algae.

[@brendagoldenwoodmushrooms8047]

Where do you get the rubber grommets? Thx

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Brenda @Goldenwood Mushrooms Bay Hydroponics

[@brendagoldenwoodmushrooms8047]

Thanks

[@fozzieprepper6923]

You used the same pool pump as Wayne??

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Not sure what his is but mine is a 1.5 HP pool pump. I have 2 per system but one is a backup if the primary ever fails