subject: Ozone Sanitizer Use For Indoor Grow Systems [print this page] One of the hardest things to do in a grow room is keep it clean, and while sweeping and picking up can do a lot, it simply doesnt guarantee a disease and bacteria free environment. When you need a little something else to help keep your grow room clean a great option is to use Ozone as a sanitizer. Keeping an indoor grow system mold free is imperative. You can get most indoor garden supplies at a grow store in Michigan, and Ozone generators are no exception.
Ozone isnt something you would think is normally associated with gardening, but ozone helps destroy bacteria by altering its molecular structure. It makes a great alternative to chemicals that fill similar function.
Ozone is produced when an oxygen molecule (O2) is released from plants during photosynthesis. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun binds a third oxygen atom to the molecule creating O3 or ozone. This is what creates the smell in the air after heavy rainfall.
There are 2 basic ways that growers can create ozone. The first is Corona Discharge, which is a method using a wire mess made from stainless steel. The mesh is charged with electricity then exposed to oxygen and this creates ozone, the more electricity discharged the greater the output of ozone. The next method is UV Ozone. This technique is done by compressing outside air and pushing it across an ultraviolet cold cathode bulb mounted in 2 inch PVC tubing. Most hydroponic stores in Michigan can help you out with materials as well as advice.
While this all seems great, too much of a good thing can be bad. At low levels, ozone is safe to humans, but once you reach high concentrations it can not only cause lung irritation, but wheezing, asthma, and permanent reduction in lung efficiency. Too much can even be harmful to plants. The concentration will destroy beneficial microbial life in your grow room and is ultimately toxic to the plants. It is probably a good idea to not use the ozone generator in the same room as your plants. Your best bet is to use the generator between harvests to help you get a handle on the sanitary needs in your grow room before you start up the next crop.
Ozone can also be used to cut odor being spread through a system by attaching the generator to an exhaust fan and keep the smelly plants from disrupting the aroma of the rest of the facility. Regardless of how you choose to use ozone, the natural disinfectant is a wonderful tool if used correctly against disease and bacteria.
Indoor grow systems can be tricky to maintain, but Ozone is just one more trick to ease the task. It has its upsides and downsides like everything else but if used correctly the benefit can be great. So like everything else do your research, know your stuff, and dont be afraid to ask for help or advice from a Michigan Hydroponics store.
