The Bubble Bucket

(1) Get two 5-Gallon buckets with lids. (Wash it out with bleach)

(3) Cut a hole in lid of bucket so the net pot sits in neatly all the way down.

(4) Cut a hole in the lid about 2cm in diameter near the rim (the pump hose goes in here).

(5) Use Black gaffer tape to wrap the pot so it is light proof. (If light gets in alga will develop in the water. This is not good.) Wrap the lid as well.

(6) Get a fish-tank pump and air-stone.

(7) Get your medium together - rockwool, clay pebbles etc.

(8) Get the Nutrients and Mixes together.

Strawdog Cannabis
Figure 9.17 - A close-up of the net pot and lid by Strawdog.

Simply mix your nutrients together in the second bucket. Set the air-stone in the center on the bottom of the first bucket and hang the air pump somewhere above the water level on the wall of your grow room. Use the hole in the lid to feed the airline through. Fill the bucket up with the nutrients to a level were the net pot just touches the solution. Turn on your air pump for 24 hours a day. That is it. The pump will send air through the tube to the air-stone and it is released into the water. The air bubbles the solution causing it to splash at the surface wetting the roots and feeding the plant. Check the bubbler everyday to see how much your plant has drunk. Let your roots get air everyday by letting a root zone form. Let the solution level drop an inch below the net pot. The net pot holds the cutting in rockwool and the rockwool is surrounded by the clay pebbles. Do not constantly top up your reservoir, it is sometimes better to let the water level drop 1 gallon and then replace that gallon. Once a root mass has develop the plant will grow like no other.

Strawdog Cannabis
Figure 9.18 - A close-up of some early roots and underside of the net-pot. Picture by Strawdog.

Basically this set-up is just bubbling the nutrients solution with the pump. The pump sucks in air from the room and this air contains Oxygen that the roots need. As the unit bubbles the roots get air, nutrients and water. The plant loves this and thrives.

When you want to change your mix you may have a spare bucket that is the same shape and size. Simply swap the lid over with the plant, root-mass and air-stone into the new bucket. This is a great little system that comes highly commended.

Chapter 10

OUTDOOR GROWING

Early Flowering Weed Plant
Figure 10.1 - Outdoor night shot of a flowering Cream Sodica Cannabis Plant. Picture by X3n0. Plant by Breeder Steve.

Many a smoker will say that the best cannabis they ever smoked was outdoor cannabis. This says a lot about natural sunlight and the outdoor environment. If you live in a climate that is warm enough for tomatoes to grow outdoors then you have the climate to grow some good weed. As an outdoor grower you may either choose your own back yard or a guerrilla grow in a woods or field. We have discussed this in a previous chapter before, so we will not go into what the two types are here.

When you have found a plot that suits your needs you can then start to prepare your plot. Seeds that are planted in untreated ground will have a low germination rate. Also you need to think about when to grow. The months of March and April are very good times to start your plants because when your plants are mature and begin to flower it should be about August to September which is just about the time daylight hours start to decrease. So in April you want to find your grow spot. Try to remove as many weeds as possible during your grow plots preparation and do not leave heaps of earth around for people to notice. Carry the earth away in bags if you have too. You can then simply sow your seeds in the ground. Do not burry them too deep, a 1/2" to 1" is fine. You may choose to add some pre-made soil to the patch which you have bought from the store. Again, find a soil with a NPK value where N is higher than P and K values. This is helpful because you will find that bag soil does not contain living masses or potential living masses such as weeds. Even though you may have treated your outdoor soil patch it may still contain seeds or spores from weeds and other plants. You will most certainly have to weed your outdoor area nearly every week during the initial stages of the grow.

6ft Silver Christmas Tree
Figure 10.2 - Notice how in this picture that the area has been cleared of major weeds. This plant has little to no competition. Picture by Slowhand.

After you have sown your seeds simply sprinkle some water over them. That is all you need to do. It is that easy. You do not need to adjust the soil pH yet or feed the soil. What you have done should be fine for starting seedlings.

If Mother Nature does not provide water for your plants then you need to draw water and feed your plants when they need it.

Some outdoor growers have got some cute ideas. Some growers germinate their seedlings indoors and place them into pots. They cut away the base of a pot and hold the bottom in using a piece of cardboard and sticky tape. They then go to their grow area and clear away the weeds. They then dig small holes and place the pots into the hole, removing the piece of cardboard before doing so. They then cover the edge of the pot so the pot can not be seen anymore. The roots will grow down through the hole in the bottom of the pot and into the surrounding outdoor soil. This method has the advantage that the seeds have already germinated. If you are a really cute grower then you will consider cloning all females and growing these in pots before transplanting the pot and plant to the hole in the ground outdoors. Amazing or what! You will have all female outdoor plants!

It is also a good idea around the second week of vegetative growth to spray the area with some pesticide.

Cannabis growing is really fun because the more you know, the more tricks you will invent by yourself to get the most out of your yields. Some of the best cannabis growers are very exotic with their grow methods. A number of people have even tried outdoor hydroponics to get their plants to grow bigger and better.

When growing outdoors you need to keep your plants in good shape and free from any unwanted predators that may find your top cola and leaves to be quite tasty. We will talk about this in the chapter about pests.

Continue reading here: Light Bending

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Readers' Questions

  • s
    What grow medium do you use for a bubble flow bucket?
    1 year ago
  • For a bubble flow bucket, hydroponic growers typically use a combination of different grow mediums to provide adequate support and aeration for the plants. Commonly used grow mediums for bubble flow buckets include expanded clay pellets (also known as hydroton or clay pebbles), coco coir, perlite, or a mixture of these mediums. These grow mediums allow for good drainage and air circulation in the hydroponic system.
    • chelsea
      How to make a grow bucket?
      1 year ago
      1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need a 5-gallon bucket, a submersible pump, a timer, an air stone, a hydroponic nutrient solution, a growing medium, such as coco coir or rockwool cubes, a light source and your chosen plant.
      2. Prepare the Bucket: Drill several holes in the bottom of the bucket for drainage, and fill it with your growing medium.
      3. Install the Submersible Pump and Air Stone: Place the submersible pump in the bottom of the bucket, and connect it to the air stone using a length of plastic tubing.
      4. Set the Timer: Connect the timer to the submersible pump, and set it to turn on and off throughout the day and night.
      5. Add Nutrients: Mix the hydroponic nutrient solution with water according to the instructions on the package, and pour it into the bucket.
      6. Plant the Plant: Carefully place the plant in the bucket, and make sure there is ample space for its roots to spread out.
      7. Add the Light Source: Hang the light source above the bucket, and adjust the timer so that it turns on and off as needed.
      8. Monitor and Maintain: Monitor the pH, temperature, and nutrient levels in the water, and add more nutrient solution as needed.
      • nicola
        How to grow hydro weed in a fish tank?
        1 year ago
      • Growing hydro weed in a fish tank is not possible. Aquariums typically contain water that is not suitable for plants and the presence of fish in the tank will make it even harder for the plants to survive. If you want to grow hydro weed, you will need to set up a hydroponic system outside of the tank with the necessary nutrients, water, and light for the plants.
        • estella
          How tofeed plants in a bubble bucket?
          1 year ago
        • Feeding plants in a bubble bucket, also known as a DWC (deep water culture) system, involves providing the necessary nutrients to support plant growth and development. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to feed plants in a bubble bucket:
          1. Set up the bubble bucket system: Start by assembling the bubble bucket system, which typically includes a reservoir containing nutrient solution, an aerator (air pump) with an air stone, and net pots or containers for holding the plants.
          2. Prepare the nutrient solution: Follow the instructions provided with your hydroponic nutrient solution to mix it properly. Generally, you will need to dilute the nutrient concentrate with water according to the recommended ratios. Make sure to measure the nutrients accurately to maintain the right balance for your plants.
          3. Fill the reservoir: Pour the prepared nutrient solution into the reservoir, leaving enough space for the air stone and the water level to rise as the plants uptake the solution.
          4. Insert the plants: Place the plants in net pots or containers filled with a growing medium like hydroton or rockwool. Make sure the roots are in direct contact with the nutrient solution.
          5. Install the air stone: Connect the air pump to the air stone and place it inside the reservoir. This will provide oxygen to the roots of the plants, promoting healthy growth and preventing root rot.
          6. Monitor and adjust pH levels: Regularly check the pH level of the nutrient solution using a pH meter or test kit. The optimal pH range for most plants is typically between 5.5 and 6.Adjust the pH as needed by adding pH up or down solutions to ensure the plants can absorb nutrients effectively.
          7. Check nutrient levels: Conduct periodic checks of the nutrient strength or electrical conductivity (EC) using a digital EC meter. Adjust the nutrient strength by adding nutrient solution or water to maintain the desired levels.
          8. Water and nutrient solution changes: As water evaporates from the reservoir, top it up with fresh water to maintain the desired water level. Additionally, periodically replace the nutrient solution in the reservoir every 1-2 weeks to prevent nutrient imbalances or depletion.
          9. Maintain cleanliness: Regularly clean the reservoir, air stone, and all equipment to prevent the formation of algae or bacterial growth. Keep the system clean to ensure healthy plant growth.
          10. Monitor plant health: Observe the plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies or any other issues. Adjust the nutrient solution, pH levels, or other environmental factors if necessary to address any problems.
          11. Remember to conduct proper research on the specific nutrient requirements of your plants and adjust your feeding regimen accordingly.
          • Shishay Selam
            Can you use canna hydro with bubblers?
            1 year ago
          • Yes, you can use canna hydro with bubblers. The bubbler acts as an air pump, aerating the hydroponic solution and making it easier for the plant to uptake water and nutrients.
            • AIDEN
              How to make your own bubble 2 bucket system?
              1 year ago
              1. Gather supplies: two five-gallon buckets, a lid for each bucket, a drill, a 3-inch drill bit, a small water pump, airline tubing and a timer.
              2. Drill a 3-inch hole in the bottom of one bucket and a smaller hole in the lid of the same bucket.
              3. Insert the airline tubing through the hole in the lid and secure with a zip tie.
              4. Drill two 3-inch holes in the bottom of the second bucket.
              5. Place the first bucket inside the second bucket.
              6. Connect the airline tubing from the pump to the hole in the lid of the first bucket.
              7. Set the pump in the second bucket and connect the timer to it.
              8. Fill the first bucket with an inch of water and let it drain into the second bucket.
              9. Turn on the timer to cycle the pump on and off, which will cause water to bubble up through the holes in the bottom of the first bucket.
              10. Enjoy watching your homemade bubble 2 bucket system!
              • constance
                How big root size bubbler water grow cannabis?
                1 year ago
              • The size of a root bubbler water grow system for cannabis will depend on the size of the plants and the volume of water desired for the system. A smaller setup could range from a 2-3 gallon reservoir with a 1/2 - 1 gallon feeder for each plant. On the other hand, a larger setup could range from a 10-50 gallon reservoir with a 5-20 gallon feeder for each plant.
                • Calvin
                  Are 10" net pots good for marijuana?
                  1 year ago
                • Yes, 10 net pots are perfectly good for cultivating marijuana plants. Net pots provide an ideal environment for plants to develop sturdy root systems, improve oxygenation, and reduce the potential for root rot. Additionally, they're economical, reusable, and easy to clean.
                  • berylla
                    Can i transpant cannabis in a bubble bucket?
                    1 year ago
                  • No, it is illegal to transport cannabis in any form. It is illegal to transport cannabis from one state to another as well as across international borders.
                    • YONAS
                      Where to keep water level bucket nets hydro?
                      1 year ago
                    • The water level bucket nets should be kept in a secure, sheltered area such as a garage or storage shed. If possible, keep them away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat or cold. It is also important to keep the nets away from sharp objects and chemicals that could damage or corrode them.
                      • viinikka
                        How to grow in bubble buckets?
                        1 year ago
                        1. Start with a 20-25 gallon container such as a plastic bucket or barrel. Fill the container with a high-quality growing medium such as a soil-less mix. Add enough water to ensure the medium is moist but not saturated.
                        2. Drill 1/4-inch holes in the bottom and sides of the container, spacing the holes around 3-4 inches apart.
                        3. Place a bubble stone, or airstone, into the bottom of the container. Connect the airstone to an aquarium pump with an air hose.
                        4. Place your plants in the container, positioning them so the roots can reach the airstone.
                        5. Fill the container with water until the roots are immersed but the base of the plants are not.
                        6. Turn on the pump and adjust the flow rate so that a steady stream of bubbles is produced in the container.
                        7. Add nutrient solution as necessary to maintain a healthy, balanced environment for your plants.
                        8. Monitor the water levels and adjust as necessary.
                        9. Check for signs of disease or pests, and treat accordingly.
                        • gregor
                          How often do you change bubble bucket water?
                          1 year ago
                        • It depends on the specific setup, but typically, you should change the water in your bubble bucket every 1-2 weeks.
                          • carmen
                            How often cange bubble bucket wwater?
                            1 year ago
                          • Bubble buckets should be cleaned and the water changed every 2-3 weeks.
                            • PANSY
                              How big a bucket lid for hydroponic marijuana?
                              1 year ago
                            • The size of bucket lid you need for hydroponic marijuana will depend on the size of the bucket you are using. Generally, you will need a lid that is slightly larger than the diameter of the bucket.
                              • YERUSALEM
                                What grow light for bubble bucket?
                                1 year ago
                              • For bubble buckets, you should use LED grow lights to provide your plants with enough light. LED lights come in various shapes and sizes to fit any indoor growing system. A good LED grow light should provide full spectrum lighting, which includes both red and blue light, to ensure your plants grow healthy and lush.
                                • David
                                  How to use a bubble bucket for weed?
                                  1 year ago
                                  1. Gather supplies:
                                  2. A 5-gallon bucket, food-grade container with a lid, an air-stone, a small aquarium pump, and an adjustable timer.
                                  3. Fill the bucket halfway with water, then add a nutrient solution to the water.
                                  4. Place the air-stone at the bottom of the bucket and attach the aquarium pump.
                                  5. Connect the pump to a timer, and set the timer to run for 8 hours a day.
                                  6. Insert your plants into the bucket one at a time.
                                  7. Fill the bucket with water until the water covers the base of the plant.
                                  8. Secure the lid to the bucket and leave the plants to grow in the bubble bucket.
                                  9. After the plants have grown, you can harvest your weed and enjoy!
                                  • sanna
                                    How close can you put bubble buckets cannabis plant together?
                                    1 year ago
                                  • It is recommended to keep at least 18 inches of space between cannabis plants in bubble buckets.
                                    • laura
                                      Does your air stone have to be strong cannabis?
                                      1 year ago
                                    • No, an air stone does not have to be strong cannabis. Air stones are typically used to provide air to an aquarium and help keep the water oxygenated.