The PM Toolkit: UV + PCO Technology

The PM Toolkit: UV + PCO Technology

In the realm of agriculture, combating powdery mildew (PM), bugs, and bacteria has long been a challenge for growers. However, a revolutionary solution is emerging—UV lights and photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) technology. This potent combination is not only transforming outdoor cultivation but also revolutionizing indoor growing practices.

For Indoor Growers: A Game-Changing Innovation

Imagine a light capable of combating PM, reducing microbial presence, mitigating pests, and enhancing the overall quality of your plants. This isn't just a vision of the future; it's unfolding before us. With the imminent launch of our 10-bar system equipped with three plant-enhancing channels, indoor growers are poised to experience a paradigm shift. Additionally, incorporating PCO devices can further enhance this transformation, making your grow rooms healthier and more productive.

Unlocking the Power of UV and PCO: Lessons from Research

Over the past few years, we've meticulously documented studies highlighting the efficacy of UV lights in battling PM and other pests, consistently yielding promising results. A pivotal discovery, first published by Cornell University, underscores the importance of utilizing UV during the night when PM's defense mechanisms are dormant. Our recommendation: integrate UV exposure 10 minutes to 1 hour before lights turn on, minimizing disruption to the photoperiod. When transitioning to the flowering stage, incorporate UV exposure for the initial 30 minutes, followed by the standard 12/12 light cycle. Notably, plants thrive under a 13/11 light cycle, a fact supported by our research findings.

The Role of PCO Technology

Photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) is a cutting-edge air purification technology that uses UV light and a catalyst to produce reactive oxygen species. These reactive oxygen species can oxidize and decompose organic pollutants, including mold spores, bacteria, and viruses, effectively sanitizing the air. By integrating PCO devices in your grow rooms, you can achieve a higher level of air purification, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for your plants.

Key Benefits of PCO Technology:

1. PCO Activation: When UV light interacts with a catalyst, usually titanium dioxide, it creates reactive oxygen species that oxidize and neutralize organic pollutants like bacteria, viruses, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
2. Broad-Spectrum Effectiveness: PCO technology not only purifies the air but also sanitizes surfaces, ensuring a comprehensive approach to creating a clean growing environment.

Benefits of UV + PCO Technology

Enhanced PM Control: The combination of UV light and PCO technology provides a powerful defense against powdery mildew. UV light disrupts the DNA of mold spores, while PCO technology breaks down these spores at a molecular level, ensuring thorough elimination.

Improved Air Quality: PCO devices continuously sanitize the air, reducing the presence of harmful microbes and pollutants. This leads to healthier plants and can also improve the overall working conditions within the grow room.

Integrated Pest Management: UV light is particularly effective against pests such as mites and thrips. When combined with PCO technology, which can reduce airborne pests, you create a robust integrated pest management (IPM) system.

Preventative Measures: Promoting Plant Health

Beyond its efficacy in combating existing issues, UV and PCO technology offer a proactive approach to plant health management. Even in the absence of PM, these technologies foster remarkable plant vitality. Whether due to the additional blue spectrum from UV light or the unseen elimination of microbes through PCO, growers consistently report enhanced plant vigor. While quantifying this effect may be challenging, empirical observations align with academic research, reinforcing the profound benefits of UV and PCO integration.

Practical Application Tips

UV Light Timing: To combat PM, use UV light for 30 minutes immediately after lights out and again for 30 minutes just before lights on. This timing ensures that the UV treatment does not interfere with the plant's flowering cycle.

PCO Device Placement: Install PCO devices strategically to ensure maximum air circulation and purification. Regularly maintain and replace the catalyst to ensure optimal performance.

Safety Considerations: Both UV light and PCO technology can be harmful to humans and animals. Always use protective gear and ensure that the growing area is not accessible to people or pets during UV exposure.

UV Light: A Tool, Not a Silver Bullet

While UV light and PCO technology are powerful tools in horticulture, they are not cure-all solutions. They should be used in conjunction with other integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and quality enhancement techniques. Here are a few additional tips:

Combine with Other Methods: Use UV light and PCO devices alongside proper sanitation, biological controls, and other treatments for a comprehensive pest management plan.

Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check your plants for signs of stress or damage from UV exposure and adjust the intensity and duration accordingly.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest research and best practices for using UV and PCO technology in horticulture to continually improve your approach.

Additional Research

• Cornell 217 Page Study: Link to study

Several fungicides tested in this study were effective in reducing hemp powdery mildew disease severity in both 2020 and 2021. The conventional fungicide azoxystrobin was the most effective in reducing disease severity compared to the untreated control. Potassium silicate (Sil-MATRIX), BaD747 (Double Nickel), and the treatment alternating Bmj (LifeGard) and BaD747 (Double Nickel) also significantly reduced disease severity in both years.

• Simon Fraser Study from Canada: Link to study

Conclusion

The future of agriculture lies in innovative solutions like UV and PCO technology that address both the quality and health of plants. By leveraging these technologies, growers can enhance plant quality, combat pests, and promote robust plant growth. As we continue to explore and refine these methods, the potential for healthier, more productive gardens becomes increasingly within reach. Join us in embracing this transformative journey towards a greener, more productive future.