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Under Current Sub-Current Culture (SCC) Hydroponics
The UC’s constant circulation of the nutrient solution allows for extremely efficient nutrient uptake. Perpetual negative pressure draws nutrients beneath plants roots at thousands of gallons per day, keeping superior uniformity of pH and EC levels throughout the entire system.
During the summer of 2002 while hiking the familiar trails near the San Joaquin River CCH20 President and co-founder Daniel Wilson noticed something quite intriguing. He observed the roots of a large black oak tree moving gently in the cool mineral rich waters of the San Joaquin. The roots while anchored in the rock and soil also had a more direct relationship with the passing waters. At that moment Daniel started to conceptualize what would eventually come to be known as Sub Current Culture, the driving force behind the under current.
- Patent pending Sub Current Culture (SCC)
- 8 gallon grow modules with 2” diameter conduit
- 24/7 nutrient circulation & aeration
- Large yields with less plants
- Less frequent nutrient change outs
- Increased nutrient efficiency
- Low power usage
- Designed for lighting footprints
- 21 Different configurations and counting.
The Under Current sets itself apart from other systems thanks to its ability to conserve both water and nutrients so effectively. This is accompanied by keeping the nutrient solution hyper oxygenated throughout the planting cycle. By increasing dissolved oxygen levels can be used for several weeks as opposed to only one week.
This method makes nutrients much more available at lower concentrations, allowing growers to reduce their dependency on petroleum based fertilizers. By using lower concentrations of nutrients the Under Current makes dealing with potentially toxic tail water (spent nutrient solution) less of an environmental concern. This hydroponics by product is typically drained into the sewer or expelled onto the outdoor garden or lawn. In either case these solutions end up fouling municipal water supplies with dangerously high levels of nitrates, phosphates and even heavy metals. Ultimately the best way to deal with these toxic compounds is to avoid using them in excessively high amounts to begin with. Using nutrients so efficiently makes the UC a natural choice for eco conscience hydro gardeners.
The UC is perfect for a wide variety of growing applications but is best suited for larger applications. UC’s can facilitate set ups ranging from (1)600 watt to (8) 1000 watt lights with just one central return module. Growers enjoy exponentially fast growth thanks to the plants enhanced ability to absorb nutrients in solution. Low nutrient EC allows plants to uptake H2O more easily which in turn speeds the plants metabolism. As plants bio chemical functions speed up so does its likelihood of reaching its full genetic potential. This invariably results in growers achieving unmatched yields and shorter days to harvest. Sounds good?
Can I use organic nutrients in this system? We’ve found over the years that in purely water culture systems nutrients with the lowest amount of insoluble components tend to perform best. This being said we recommend pure synthetics i.e. 3 parts, Dutch Gold, CES, and Home & Garden. Best results come when less additives are used or they are used in homeopathic doses (1/10th the strength) in solution or as foliar sprays. The best way to rate a potential additive is observing whether it is pH stable. If it destabilizes pH you may be best to pass on it, no matter how good it is.
Frequent nutrient change outs can be avoided by using the epicenter float valve for top off’s throughout the cycle. The solution should be treated like a fish tank which requires very infrequent changes when the chemistry is kept stable. High quality nutrients will continue to stay usable for many weeks. Hang loose and keep your nutes where they belong… in solution.
“I’ve used every hydro system on the market and after 20 years of growing I thought I knew it all until I met UC. She took me places I’d only dreamed about or seen in the movies… no but really. Ease of use, professional construction, knowledgeable tech support, oh and the largest fruits and flowers I’ve ever grown. Bottom line… this system works and it’s turned by 16 light grow into a piece of cake, or a bouquet of flowers.” Paul K. – Vail, Colorado
Beware of excessive nutrient use in this system. High EC can be the biggest nemesis in the UC, particularly when using multiple nutrient inputs (4 or more). Keep it simple and nature will do the rest. Keep water temps between 68-72 degrees for best results. If nutrient rides above 80 degrees be sure to use pure synthetics to avoid pesky pathogen outbreaks. If disease occurs, correct the errors in operation and the system bring health back to the plants. Remember dissolved oxygen is anti pathogenic. When in doubt call CCH20, it’s what we do. We’ll help troubleshoot and get you back on track in no time.
Improvements happen habitually at CCH2O. Our most recent improvements include new epicenter air dispersion membrane and plumbing. Custom ABS lids with single, double, triple and quadruple plant sites per module. And soon to come cloning lids! Enhanced lids will be available as of December 2009.
All Under Current systems are hand crafted in California, not unloaded off cargo from off shore. Available exclusively thru CCH2O mention this article when ordering and receive 5% off your first order.
Tech Line (559) 266-4769, FAX (559) 486-4769, Website – www.CCH2O.com
