Best automatic irrigation equipment according to redditors
We found 232 Reddit comments discussing the best automatic irrigation equipment. We ranked the 96 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 232 Reddit comments discussing the best automatic irrigation equipment. We ranked the 96 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
It's a hole punch for drip irrigation systems. http://www.amazon.com/Drip-Irrigation-Standard-Tubing-Punch/dp/B0035LSREW
http://www.dripworks.com/category/punches
I believe it's a plant waterer. You jab it into the soil. The pretty, glazed bit is above the surface and looks nice. The water seeps out from the unglazed bit to the roots.
It's kinda like these terra cotta ones, but fancier.
It looks like a thermal burn to me, if it's also scale rot, the care instructions would be the same. But if you are not regulating your heat sources, it's probably a burn.
Inkbird makes some affordable thermostats with a few extra safety features. I would start off by making sure every heat source (heating pads, lamps) are hooked up to one. If you have extra money and want a ton of safety features, go with something by Spyder Robotics - their Herpstat line is the best of the best and they are what I use. I know places like PetCo / etc don't say you need a thermostat, but they are absolutely a must-have. Even the most high end heat pads that swear they don't go over X degrees can and will fail and will get hot enough to burn a pet.
Make sure humidity is above 60% at all times. If you are using an enclosure with wire mesh top, cover most of it in saran wrap or foil, this should keep the humidity in. Even after your snake gets better, keep humidity at this level.
Switch to unprinted newspaper or undyed paper towels for substrate for now. Something easily cleanable and sterile. Change it often. Change water and wash bowl daily. Going for a sterile environment while she heals. If you haven't done a deep clean, get some F10 SC and do a deep clean of her enclosure and everything in it. This stuff looks SUPER SCARY, but it's ok! I put 1 ounce in an empty spray bottle and then fill the rest of the spray bottle with water, so it's super diluted. Once diluted, it can be sprayed on any of her decor and be left to dry and still be safe for her.
It goes without saying, but also follow any medication and care directions the vet gives!
Also - there's a lot of info in here that you might not have known before, and it's really understandable. There's a lot of incomplete, inaccurate, and out of date care sheets out there for ball pythons, and even after doing a ton of research, you still could have missed something. But you've figured it out now, and are taking appropriate steps to make her better which is a ton better than a lot of other pet owners. I hope your girl makes a full recovery and you have many more years with her. Please keep us updated!
I would either stop feeding (she probably wouldn't take it anyways) for now, or go down a prey size until she is better.
a thermostat is a device that regulates the power of another device, such as a heat lamp, in order to control the temperature. a thermometer measures temperature, nothing else.
i'm seeing a ton of red flags here, so i'm going to post my BP info dump. the first three links are detailed care sheets, then a tub tutorial, and the rest are product recommendations. read everything thoroughly, come back with any questions. let me know if any of the links don't work.
glass tanks can be very challenging for ball python husbandry due to the high amount of air flow with the screen top and the total lack of insulation with the glass walls. it's generally recommended to use tubs or pvc reptile cages instead. wood enclosures can also be suitable if they're designed well and sealed properly to protect the wood against moisture. glass tanks can work, but they require a lot of modification and maintenance, which you'll find tips for in the second link. i'll give you product recommendations to cover options for tanks, tubs, and pvc/wood enclosures.
Here's the album with descriptions.
Parts list:
Total cost: ~$60. Not having to pH, add nutes, add calmag, etc. individually to like 10 individual cans of water: priceless!
Here is the pump I’ve only been using it a few weeks so I can’t tell you anything about its longevity but I like it. You can set it to run for 1-99 seconds in intervals from 1hr to 30 days. Unfortunately that means a little math. For example I found with my setup it pumps 1 gallon in 540 seconds. So for 1/4gallon / day / each of 3 plants = 68 seconds of watering every 4 hours.
If you get it don’t use the clear tubing that comes with it. Get some proper black irrigation tubing so you don’t get stuff growing in the lines.
good effort, but don't get that one, get this one. it's cheaper, by the same company, and the probe is designed for aquariums:
https://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-Temperature-Controller-Thermostat-100-240V/dp/B015FKG4CC/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Inkbird+Digital+Temperature+Controller+Thermostat&qid=1554760604&s=lawn-garden&sr=1-3-catcorr
[Upgraded] Automatic Drip... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P9ZH7PQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
So I have one question: are you sure it's "servo-actuated" valves or just solenoid valves?
If you're concerned with just on/off, I use solenoid valves all the time. You're really looking for low flow rates for the houseplate irrigation system, so it will be cheap too. Amazon example.
If you're actually concerned with the RATE of flow that servo valves would give you, I'd recommend that you either control the flow from the pump (modulate frequency), or use rate limiters specific to each plant. Like this will limit it to 1 gallon/hr.
Next time use something like THIS It saved my plants when I was away for 1 week.
I used Blumats with a 35gallon Rubbermaid reservoir when I was out of town for 2 weeks. Since the blumats only use gravity I didn’t risk the chance of a power outage. I would do a test run to make sure how much water you need. I’ve also run out of water before with tragic results.
Blumat Medium Box Kit - Automatic Irrigation for Up To 12 Plants
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008PXHY3A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_girfAbM3N6FR5
The blumats have a 30gal resevoir with a pH controller. This has basically cut my weekly work in half. I just top off the res every couple weeks.
That's a 3x3 tray, so that leaves 6 inches on all sides for some pavers to hold up those shelves. I use a transfer pump and wand to feed from 5gal buckets and then pump the runoff out of the tray back into a bucket for reuse outside for my strawberries.
Edit: Here's what it looks like from above
It is time you need to control, not how many gallons of water come out of the sprinkler heads. Your greenery will dictate how many gallons per week you need to keep everything looking good. Investing in a system that can adjust to your weather will pay off after a few seasons:
https://www.amazon.com/Rachio-Smart-Sprinkler-Controller-8-Zone/dp/B07CZ864Y9
Skip this. It is going to fugg up on you and you wont be able to fix it. You got a few things to automate. It aint so hard. Most of it you need anyhow. Last item is the most computer automation you need.
. Simple to set water timer. Buy the parts you need in bulk if you have a lot of plants. Drainage also needs to considered. Water can be collected and moved with a condensation pump. Low Depot has them.
A simple heater with thermostat set for 70 will turn on as needed.
Get a calendar, set up a schedule for 8 weeks harvest. Plan to be home for harvest, cleanup and replanting. You might want to try autoflowers. They need less interaction. Hit me up if you have any questions.
These are GREAT connetors. They come in multiple diameter sizes too.
Here is the proper tubing too. Again they come in different diameters.
I got this for last vacation and it worked very well. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07P9ZH7PQ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title&th=1
This setup has a solenoid that can be connected to a timer, here are the links.
Tank: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007XKFQCM/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Regulator: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01KVG6PI8/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Adapter for tank to reg: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00I2UMZ2Q/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Bubble counter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01N2M2B6E/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You need water. Don't bother seeding if you aren't going to water it. You can setup hoses with sprinkler spikes and rotors and chain them together. Home Depot / Ace Hardware has the parts but for reference:
Orbit 1/2" Zinc Flow-Thru Spike Base https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004S24W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OTDyDbR33GS4V
Rain Bird Rotor Heads 5000 Rotor Sprinkler Heads. 4-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MBNRXBI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FVDyDbSFVDZMY
10 Pack - Orbit 1/2 Inch x 6 Inch Poly Cut-Off Sprinkler Riser https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LORJR20/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YWDyDbJ5FFCPX
Did you watch the discussion video?
The wax in the measuring cup was barely liquid, it was quite manageable. I do agree that it would be nicer to have a melt pot and ladle the wax out from there. I've been eyeing this and this.
Yeah, wax does make a mess. I usually have a set of sheets set aside for wax play. I have been impressed with the beeswax as it's more solid when it dries and It was easy to clean up.
Soy wax is the absolute easiest as it washes out of most things.
I've been using this little auto-watering pump I got off amazon. It draws from a 5 gal bucket and puts out 1 C of water per 60 second run. Plenty for my seed trays. Not bad for $40. The Space heater is on a timer and keeps it about 10*F warmer than the ambient temp at night... not sure if this will be enough when it drops down to 16* next week but I assume it will be OK as I am only keeping cold hardy stuff in there for now and my tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant are inside under a fluorescent shop light til April. Zone 6a TN.
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I am using one of these personally with a pair of Eheim heaters:
https://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-Temperature-Controller-Thermostat-100-240V/dp/B015FKG4CC/
I have no experience. Do not take my word for it that this is a good idea but perhaps you could try an Aqua Globe or something similar? It's obviously not good long term but to tide you over for 5 days it should work.
They'd have them at any gardening store, Home Depot or Lowes or even a reasonably sized Walmart with a gardening section.
Just get an inkbird and turn the freezer down to the coldest setting possible. I attach the temperature probe to the side of my fermenter with some type of insulation. There is a couple options for warming as well if you do some light googling.
I used this line. You can only run so many feet of emitter line from a single emitter tap, in my case it was 18 feet. So, I ran one of these emitter taps into the 1/2" line for each 16 feet (I have 8 foot beds), each going up and back in a row (effectively 2 lines).
I found the 1/4" line is a lot easier to get and keep in place than the 1/2" line - so I only use the 1/2" line for the supply run around to all the raised beds, then I used the 1/4" line and 1/4" emitter tubing to run into the beds.
As I'm sure you already know, Plant growth and health is limited by 3 factors on a sliding scale. Light, nutrients, and co2. If any of them are not present it inhibits the plant's ability to uptake the other two. I struggled for a very long time in my 20 gallon until I CONSISTENTLY provided all 3.
The startup cost is a bit, but once you are up and running it only costs ~$4.00 to refill a 24oz. Canister and one canister lasts me a month and half easy.
If you don't have access to co2 refills then a DIY setup would be the only option and I have absolutely no experience with those unfortunately. One other option, while more expensive, are the fluval injection systems: link
Drip irrigation.
You get a Galcon Timer which yes, it's battery-powered it used a 9-volt battery which should be replaced three times a year.
That plus a Drip Irrigation Kit and some more Drip Emitters and more Tubing and your elbows and your t-fittings is basically all you need to build out an irrigation system.
You may want a few landscape stakes to hold the tubing in placewhile you setup the system.
Very cool you're using Amazon Smile mate.
There are a couple of alternatives, a couple of folk I know are using the one you linked.
I bought this one but it broke on fairly quick. So I used the manifold and set up my own auto feed system using a smartplug and a water pump. I used the manifold off the green thing though, this is my set up.
A lot of people use BluMats very successfully (both the originals and the knock-offs). Maybe those could be your way forward?
This Automatic watering thing might work...
You can use either an overhead heat source like a ceramic heat emitter (they put off heat and no light) or an under tank source like an undertank heat pad. Any kind of source needs to be on a thermostat (such as this one) so it doesn't get too hot. IIRC, cali kings need a hotspot of around 85F.
It does sound like he's trying to shed. You may need to bring the humidity up a bit for him. Misting a couple of times a day with a hand mister might help him out (distilled or reverse osmosis water will prevent water spots on glass). Another option is to make a humid hide. Some kind of container that is completely sealed except for one entrance, with some damp sphagnum moss inside.
You can also provide him a deep water dish...big enough for him to lay in. My Florida kingsnake likes to lay in his water dish from time to time, but they like a bit more humidity in general compared to calis.
You need a thermostat. Place the probe between the map and the bottom of the tank. All below the tank. Inexpensive thermostats:
https://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-Temperature-Controller-Thermostat-100-240V/dp/B015FKG4CC/
https://www.amazon.com/MTPRTC-ETL-Certified-Thermostat-Germination-Reptiles/dp/B000NZZG3S/
Fish tank pump on a smart plug?
I use one of these for my normal watering without the auto function.
DIY Micro Automatic Drip Irrigation Kit,Houseplants Self Watering System with 30-Day Digital Programmable Water Timer 5V USB Power Operation for Indoor Potted Plants Vacation Plant Watering [Gen 4] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0743F4532/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ky3BCb9APHBAN
But unfortunately at the max setting it only does 1/2gal per time interval and only equal time intervals. It works well with autos in small pots and just to keep plants from totally drying out if I go out of town.
This is the exact system I’m using.
Blumat Automatic Watering Sensors - 5 Plant Starter Drip System - Made in Austria - Great for all Plants https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IQXFBWA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ThyQBb5QBB12W
It didn’t seem to interfere. Although I did have 1 over water incident 2/3rds or the way through maybe the roots prevented it from sensing saturation. After I reset the dial it was fine hmmmm.
I used this when I was out of town for a week, worked well :
DIY Micro Automatic Drip Irrigation Kit,Houseplants Self Watering System with 30-Day Programmable Water Timer and 5V USB Power Operation for Indoor Potted Plants or Vacation Plant Watering [Gen 3] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0743F4532/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5g1KBb3B2ZMHR
Here's an amazon link.
You can hook it up to a faucet with a pressure reducer without any hassle; just buy the right couplers and enough garden hose or irrigation tubing to run the line and you should be good to go.
This is a very common mistake, but it can have very deadly consequences if not changed.
Get a [thermostat](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015FKG4CC/ref=asc_df_B015FKG4CC5396573/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=395033&creativeASIN=B015FKG4CC&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198107334619&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14493505548356397280&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9018821&hvtargid=pla-326308171578 (I linked the one I have, it's not too expensive and it works great) as soon as possible, otherwise you risk burning your snake very badly, and the vet bills caused by that would be much more expensive than the thermostat, not to mention the emotional distress.
Fermentation temp will be higher than ambient, so 65-72 ambient could be pushing you out of optimal for some yeasts, though you could be fine.
I bought a chest freezer on sale and an inkbird temp controller and this works well for me and would fit in your budget. Even more so if you’re willing to find a Craigslist freezer. My (7 cu ft?) freezer can squeeze in two PET carboys if needed, though I currently just do 5 gal batches.
I guess technically it’s a “drip system”, and it uses these rigs
Hydro Flow Rain Ring - 6" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WBZZ7K0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
it's better (and cheaper) if you can avoid those emitters though because they are not very reliable either... They get clogged up all the time for me. (talking about this: https://www.amazon.com/Rain-Bird-SW10-30PS-Irrigation-Watering/dp/B0049C76S4)
I use one of these with great success. It's cheap, it's simple and it's worked well for me for ages. I have the intake tube stuck through a hole in the lid of a 5 gallon bucket full of water with the nutes already mixed in.
It's pretty simple, set the length of time to water, tell it how many times a day to water and that's it. I'm using 1 unit for my tent containing 4-5 plants. I'd estimate that I've got it pretty close to maxed out. You might be able to do 6-7 plants if they were smaller or otherwise didn't need a ton of water.
Hi! A little late to the party, but something else to keep in mind that I did not see mentioned is that you will definitely want a thermostat (not just a thermometer) to regulate the heat from your heat pad and/or Ceramic Heating Element. You will probably want one for each heat element, although CHEs can be controlled with dimmer switches as well I believe.
A thermostat lets you regulate the output of a heat pad or CHE. This is important because without regulation, it is possible for either of them to overheat beyond typical heating abilities. This could lead to extreme temperatures in your tank that could burn the snake or even cause neurological damage if it's hot enough.
I'm taking my list of suggestions from other users who post around snek subreddits as I am not yet a snek owner myself :(.
Cheap options are Jump Start thermostats, although they do not have safety features that will shut down the heating element if the thermostat fails. Another option that's in the same price range but a bit safer is an Inkbird thermostat. If you wanna splurge and get a very high quality thermostat for your little buddy, you can go for a Spyder Robotics thermostat.
Also, not necessarily required but useful and fun: an Infrared Thermometer
/u/relaymail beat me to it. I have been using the 1/2 mainline and 1/4 drip emitter tubing for a few years now on my raised beds and it's been great.
You can see how I have it set up in - this pic
Since the pic was taken I've buried all the mainline so I don't have any showing except for where it comes up and across the beds, then back down.
I have had the best luck with [this main line from MisterLandscaper] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006ZNPE4I/) compared to some others. It's a bit more stiff than some of the others which has helped it hold up, makes it easier to poke holes in for adding drip lines, and it held up very well to trenching in between beds.
[This drip line from Toro] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0026TA5JE/) is the one I settled on, preferring less flow more frequently to more flow every foot. This is half as much water every six inches, versus twice as much every foot. Yields the same water, total, but spreads it out a bit more, which should be more flexible for planting things.
Lastly, I've been using Rain Bird fittings and connectors, with Orbit water timers.
So far, so good! Let us know how the project turns out!
Fountain pump with 1/2 out
1/2 inch tubing from pump to drip
Drip irrigation distributor http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00004S26U
1/4 feed lines to your plants
Done
Run it manually or on a timer.
I got mine off Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IQXFBWA/ref=s9_acsd_al_bw_c_x_1_w
Haven't grown my koji yet because I'm on vacation, but here's what I purchased and it all works:
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- Humidistat: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071ND7N8L/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o00\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Perforated pan: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E95D6H0/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o02\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Pan: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001VZ6Y4O/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o01\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Humidistat: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J1E5LWM/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o04\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Thermostat: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015FKG4CC/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o04\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Heating pad (I fold it in half): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P7U259C/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o04\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Styrofoam container: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NO6F8E/ref=oh\_aui\_detailpage\_o05\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Go get some Sledgehammer flush. and run it through the plant after you have let the soil dry for 4- 5 days. Do yourself a favor and buy an automated watering system, which will run you about 35$ on amazon. This way you will be able to have precise watering on a schedule and prevent this type of noob mistake.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0743F4532/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
here the one i use. I just went to the store and bought a 5 gallon jug and use it for the reservoir. Best move ever. Also, if it is your first grow, take a tip from an old head and DONT fuck with them too much. Less is more with growing.
Blumats, it's a drip kit but the carrot that is in the ground there senses how wet the soil is and you can set it to maintain the same moisture level so it never gets too wet or dry. It's pressure fed, so you just need a res with a little fish tank aerator and little pump to keep everything moving.
Got it cause I was going away for a few days and my coco needed to be watered every day... so nice not having to mix nutes every day as an added bonus. Definitely worth it.
Amazon primable for free shipping
I just set up a really basic watering system so that they got watered while on vacation, using:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B013JPIJG4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018WVNXC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1 (I should have gotten larger, but this works)
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MVF16JG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I timed how long it took for the pump to go thru a 5 gallon bucket (my normal amount to water) 3 times, and set the timer to go off for a little longer than it took on average, on the day I wanted them to get watered.
I'm now using it to water since I'm in flower and it's easier to just let it water them while in darkness, since I'm only awake for a little time they are getting light.
Someone commented this in another post.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07P9ZH7PQ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title&th=1
New question. Is a manifold like this good?
I'm thinking of using the Ecoplus 396 gph from amazon as my pump. I'm pumping about three feet up, and thinking of using 1/4" tubing. Is 396 gph overkill for 6x5' rails, each 3" diameter. If the pump is flowing too much is it bad for the pump to use a manifold or some valves to restrict flow?
I'm using 2" net pots, mostly for lettuce and spinach and basil and the like. What size rockwool should I get. Should I add clay pellets like for larger plants? Should I use bigger cubes?
ALSO, is there a cheap way to cap off the ends of a pvc pipe? The 3" caps are like 3 bucks each, and I need 12 of them which is close to how much I spent on the pipe itself. I figured maybe just make sure the ends are flat and glue a peace of plastic to the end?
Sorry for all the questions. This is my first NFT and as I'm assembling the thing I'm getting a clearer picture of what I haven't figured out yet. Anyway thanks!
Amazon sells a auto waterer that's powered by AAs and/or a usb cord, I use one for one of my indoor trees, just hook it in the side of a 5 gallon bucket and set it for how often you want it watered, the little brass filter will clog, it's best to take it off and weigh the hose down with something so it stays at the bottom. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0743F4532/
Super easy and I've been using mine for a couple of months now, no issues so far except for the clogged filter thing. Make sure you test it before, and make sure it's set for minutes not seconds.
I'm stoned so I decided to price out a DIY recirculating drip [single unit] for you with links!
$31.86 for a DIY recirculating drip bucket
If you don't have an Air Pump you're looking at $38.86.
Inkbird thermostat, I figured it would be good enough to use temporarily. I have my other snake on a Herpstat 2 and I intend to use it for the BP too, once she's done with quarantine.
I use this temp gun to check the temps under the hide, at least once a day.
No need to drill anything, you can get a 1/4 inch drip irrigation set from amazon for like $25. comes with the atomizers & drip heads and splitters and all.
Example... not hocking the product.. just the first one that came-up on the search.
https://www.amazon.com/Koram-Distribution-Irrigation-Accessories-IR-D/dp/B013JPIJG4/
I believe there is also a spongy slow drip type tube/hose out there as well I just cant remember the name of it. "Worst case" you poke some holes in some 1/4 inch vinyl tubing using a needle to get the same effect.
I got to thinking... if you’re getting a lot of rust it sounds like you have galvanized pipes. If that’s the case, all new sprinklers com with a filter at the the nozzle. If you have pvc, this will work: https://www.amazon.com/Rain-Bird-PRF07530S-Irrigation-Regulating/dp/B006JZ51MC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=drip+filter&qid=1565144267&s=gateway&sprefix=drip+filter&sr=8-3
This is 3/4” so if you have one inch you’ll have to get adapters. But still.... with pvc you can get a new sprinkler with a filter at the nozzle. That’ll be much easier and more cost effective whichever pipe you have.
Yep. 9 months of the year, anyway. I hook one of these to the exhaust on each tent. Set it to kick on at 76, off at 73.
In the Summer, they run all the time during lights on (holding at ~80 degrees). Fall and Spring they run about half the time. I'm in a cold climate, so in my winters I have to make some adjustments (62 degree ambient).
During the cold months, I leave the thermostat in place, but run a small duct fan before the exhaust, which runs 24/7. It's enough to keep humidity from building up too much, which it would normally. Especially during the dark cycle. . .also, I run COBs and Strip fixtures, which generate very little heat, so Jan/Feb my tents might not hit 76 degrees, at all. Then I dial down, and grow everything between 62 degrees (dark) and 72 degrees (light).
TBH, I've only done one winter cycle with the COB/Strip LEDs, but the plants grown in the cold were better, quality-wise, then the summer plants. Although a bit less yield. . .all that is anecdotal, of course.
Oh, also, if you aren't already, consider how to exhaust back into your room as the cold weather comes. It'll keep humidity up, and you won't be exhausting warm air, only to pay to warm that air again.
This doesn't make any sense to me... What people want to grow their own food but don't actually like gardening and are also willing to pay significantly more than if they just purchased their produce?
The scale is too small for there to be any positive returns during the life of the unit, especially if you ever need to replace parts or do maintenance. And better alternatives already exist! You can achieve almost the same thing on a 3x larger scale^1 for 2% of the cost^2 and less time:
You'll have to plant the seeds yourself, but on a small scale that is such a nominal task it is hardly an advantage to the FarmBot, especially because you still have to load seeds and attachments into the FarmBot (and clear out the inevitable jams). And the time to set up the landscaping fabric and irrigation system is almost certainly less than setting up and programming the FarmBot, with less maintenance and much fewer potential points of failure.
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^1 The Farmbot Genesis kit has a 4.5 m^2 compared to the ~14 m^2 provided by the landscaping fabric.
^2 Automated irrigating and weed prevention system from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0743F4532?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details
That’s the one I bought. I’m sure I could get away with using it on 4 plants but I wouldn’t want to go any more than that.
https://floraflex.com
This is the system I’ll buy once This one breaks. Looks better for the long term. I wanted something cheap to try it out for the first time.
You could get a programmable timer that attaches to a faucet, and pick up some irrigation tubing at your local hardware store - they have all sorts of nozzles / sprayers / drippers that could be set up to auto-water your outdoor plants.
If you're in an apartment (with no faucet access) another alternative could be to get one of the pump systems that attaches to a bucket. I'm not sure if it would be strong enough to mist/spray, but perhaps just some dripping water in the right place would be enough?
If you want to save time refilling, I got one of these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P9ZH7PQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_ZpeDDbY2RV7S4
I have it screwed into a water bottle top over a 1 gallon container that I refill with distilled water weekly. I have it set to run for 30 seconds twice a day and it keeps the whole thing nice and moist.
DIY Micro Automatic Drip Irrigation Kit,Houseplants Self Watering System with 30-Day Digital Programmable Water Timer 5V USB Power Operation for Indoor Potted Plants Vacation Plant Watering [Gen 4] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0743F4532/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.y8BDb92BV4CB
How long do you think an inverter/car battery setup would run a small water pump to water plants? What would be a good way to recharge the car battery? Are you saying there are more options to run a water pump/timer remotely? Cause my crop is far away from traditional means of power and water and I'm trying like crazy to find a reasonable way to do this so I can setup automatic watering.
This is way originally have me the idea for a battery operated pump with a timer. It gets so many mixed reviews about quality that I'm hesitant to try it.
DIY Micro Automatic Drip Irrigation Kit,Houseplants Self Watering System with 30-Day Digital Programmable Water Timer 5V USB Power Operation for Indoor Potted Plants Vacation Plant Watering [Gen 4] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0743F4532/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.NyBDb95WRT4W
I am a bot programmed to automatically provide the following content by /u/_Ataraxia when summoned. Link to the most recent version of this content here
The first three links are detailed care sheets, then a tub tutorial, and the rest are product recommendations. read everything thoroughly, come back with any questions. Let /u/_Ataraxia know if any of the links don't work.
Glass tanks can be very challenging for ball python husbandry due to the high amount of air flow with the screen top and the total lack of insulation with the glass walls. it's generally recommended to use tubs or pvc reptile cages instead. wood enclosures can also be suitable if they're designed well and sealed properly to protect the wood against moisture. glass tanks can work, but they require a lot of modification and maintenance, which you'll find tips for in the second link. i'll give you product recommendations to cover options for tanks, tubs, and pvc/wood enclosures.
Ball Python Care Guides
Set-up Recommendations
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This is the system you want https://www.amazon.com/Blumat-Automatic-Watering-Sensors-Starter/dp/B00IQXFBWA/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1541090568&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=blumat&dpPl=1&dpID=41dHaopxgeL&ref=plSrch
You need this!
I will definitely have to grab a timer for my light.
The small system Im going to use is this
DIY Micro Automatic Drip Irrigation Kit,Houseplants Self Watering System 30-Day Digital Programmable Water Timer 5V USB Power Operation Indoor Potted Plants Vacation Plant Watering [Gen 4] https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0743F4532/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oqC0Cb786QFCK
5M Micro Irrigation Set Water Misting Cooling Drip Sprinkler System for Patio Garden Landscape Flower https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B072VBBN6Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RLC0CbDFGCF5T
I plan on using wooden dowels drilled into the wooden crates so that I can vertically position the misting nozzles properly. The rest of the line/drip nozzles I will secure to the wood and run to the plants to (hopefully) keep it looking clean.
Im considering a basic wooden ikea type shelf where I can separate the Bonsais and strategically place lights / misting nozzles above.
Hopefully these links work..Im pretty new to redit and this is only my 3rd post. I apologize if it doesn’t work.
basically bought this https://www.amazon.ca/Automatic-Irrigation-Houseplants-Programmable-Operation/dp/B0743F4532/ref=sr_1_19?crid=11LXMM521O95X&keywords=drip+irrigation+system&qid=1559330762&s=gateway&sprefix=drip+iri%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-19
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You can get pretty much everything from Home Depot. They have a section for drip irrigation at the big one near me.
https://www.amazon.com/Blumat-Medium-Box-Kit-Irrigation/dp/B00IQXFBWA?th=1
Or go to any hydro / garden store, blumat or drip irrigation
In practice your plants can probably dry out if it's about a week. Two weeks and they might not come back.
looks good. if your interested in exploring this type of cooking more but don't want to spring for an anova or other sousvide cooker. use the crockpot method. more precise. and can do longer cooks without losing heat.
basically you hook this
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015FKG4CC/ref=asc_df_B015FKG4CC5097413/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=395033&creativeASIN=B015FKG4CC&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198107334619&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12722699865548230849&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017523&hvtargid=pla-326308171578
inline with your crockpot. then put the temp probe in the water. bring water up to temp with high once its at temp though switch it to low or warm, otherwise the heater element gets too much momentum during heat cycles and overshoots the temperature. this is what I use currently. i've done 48hr chuck roasts in it and works awesome.
Check out this controller.
[Rachio](Rachio 3 WiFi Smart Lawn Sprinkler Controller, Works with Alexa, 8-Zone https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CZ864Y9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3QDIBb1EN0DSY)
this is my first time hearing about blumat. can you describe which tote resevoir you use, and how you connect the reservoir to blumat? I saw this kit:
https://www.amazon.com/Blumat-Deck-Planter-5-Pack-Starter/dp/B00IQXFBWA/
But it looks like one still need to get the reservoir the tubing/connectors for the reservoir?
I'm not that sure where to find guides. There are a lot of premade kits available, check amazon or home depot or similar stores. You can purchase the individual parts or just purchase a kit.
Here is a typical water pump, this one is the smallest and cheapest I can find on Amazon, or close to, as it takes very little flow to supply the drippers. Don't let them run dry though, reservoir should always have water in it.
I currently use this bad boy to split from 1/2 inch hose from a water pump to the thinner spaghetti hose, I think it's 1/4 inch, that leads to the drippers. The trick to using this manifold is finding a fitting to go from 1/2 inch hose from the pump to the required thread for the manifold, which is garden hose size. I use a totally standard 1/2 inch threaded fitting that is stocked at all my local hardware stores. You can adjust flow on the manifold but I prefer not to, just leave it and let the drippers modulate flow.
Instead of a manifold, you could also find some way to go right to spaghetti tubing from the pump, and just run one master line to all the plants, and use a tee for each dripper.
You could also run the 1/2 inch supply line as your master line and puncture a hole in it with this or this and just use a little fitting like this to run the spaghetti hose to each dripper/plant, but I feel like these connections are prone to leaking. It is a very popular way of setting up drip systems though. With less than very many plants I would go with a manifold or spaghetti hose with tees.
I like this style of dripper because it sends a consistent amount of water to the plants and I adjust volume by setting an electronic timer (24 hr/7 day timer) to run the right amount of minutes per day, the amount of times I want. Math is nice.
So basically parts list can fluctuate pretty heavily depending on how you want to do it.
Have you just drilled holes for water, or have you actually added in drip irrigation heads? The heads will help prevent oddities in water pressure and will better regulate everything. You can even pair them with 1/4 tubing and couplings to get the water where you want it to go. In my experience, the heads are better than the soaker hoses.
thanks Hydro Flow Rain Ring - 6" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WBZZ7K0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I just got a replacement for a broken head last weekend. The style and range/coverage type was listed on the display boxes at Lowe’s.
I’m not recommending these at all, the link is just to show the rotary style you want and then adjust the head to produce a mist/stream to get the coverage you need.
You can see in the pictures the stream type and even what happens as you adjust it.
https://www.amazon.com/Rain-Bird-Sprinkler-Heads-4-Pack/dp/B00MBNRXBI
I don't know I'd this will help at all, since mine has died, but...
Mine (indoors) wanted to be constantly moist. I put one of those [terracotta bottle plant waterers](Terracotta Plant Waterer - Perfect for Vacation Plant Watering https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0156S2OWC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4yBSzbAQS4RWK) in it, and it thrived for a while. Then... I don't know what happened. It started turning yellow and dying back. Maybe it got root rot?
I currently have a Silver Falls that is acting like it's thirsty (dry leaves) though the soil is definitely moist. I don't know what to do either!
Edit: added link
Smart Thermostat: I use the Honeywell Z-Wave thermostat (as my smart home is "mostly" Z-Wave). I considered Ecobee (I hate Nest), but went with this as I don't really need a "learning" thermostat...do this temperature when I am home, do that one when I am not home.
Sprinkler control: Rachio (Amazon Link) - best sprinkler controller I have ever had...depending on where you live, you might even get a rebate on your water due to the water savings this has.
Smart Door Lock: Kwikset (Amazon Link) - again Z-Wave as I use Z-Wave. A cool thing about this lock is that you can re-key it yourself.
Temperature Sensor: SmartThings Motion Sensor (Amazon Link) - it reports temperature, and it's ZigBee
Leak Sensor: Samsung SmartThings Leak Sensor (Amazon Link) - it's ZigBee, but I have built out a smaller ZigBee network too.
Garage Door Opener: GoControl (Amazon Link) - again Z-Wave.
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Multi-Purpose Sensor: SmartThings (Amazon Link) - Open/Close, Temperature, Vibration: I have one of these on each my closet doors (when I open the door, the closet light turns on...when I close the door the light turns off). I also have one on my Gun Safe (so I get notified if my gun safe door is open...also get vibration notifications if it's being tampered with)
The temperature/motion sensor is a nice combination. For example, I have one of these outside on my lanai. When it detects motion, it turns the fans on...but only if the temperature is over 74 F). I have a few of these inside that turn on small table lamps at night when motion is detected (versus large/bright lights) because the night is dark, and full of terrors.
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Don't know if you have a pool, but I use iAqualink as my pool controller. It has it's own app, and now integrates with Alexa (doesn't integrate with SmartThings yet). But it's nice being able to turn on the spa and spa heater while out for dinner, and having it be up to temperature by the time you get home.
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Oh - and check out Sonos for whole house audio. I SOOOOOOOOO love my Sonos speakers.
Blumat Tropf Medium Box Kit - Automatic, Moisture Sensing Irrigation for Up To 12 Plants - Great for Vacation Watering https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B008PXHY3A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oIxZDb9Q0V8Y4
Not sure if this is too small or simple for you but I just installed this in my covered raised flowerbed. I just ran the line across the roof and attached the little orange pieces (misters) every few feet or so, works fantastic.
KORAM IR-D 50 Feet Blank Distribution Tubing Hose Plant Watering Irrigation Drip Kit Accessories Include Atomizing Nozzle Mister Dripper, 1/4-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JPIJG4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MmLVAbYWQWHWD
DIY all the way.
You have two watering areas. front and rear. Front has three sections, rear has two. You will most likely need two timers, unless you can bring a hose from the front to the back.
I just rebuilt my irrigation system to drip. 4 raised beds, 20x 5 gallon buckets, and hopefully more soon. Let me know if you have any questions on this, just doing a data dump here.
I am assuming your water comes from a hose. Get a cheap hose timer, (i'm just going to link to some simple stuff on amazon, not the exact thing you should buy, you can get a lot at home depot and it might be cheaper there) https://www.amazon.com/Orbit-Single-Programmable-Standard-Packaging/dp/B004INGS8S you will probably need two.
Get some 1/2" irrigation tubing. This will run the majority of water. Think of this as the main line. https://www.amazon.com/Rain-Bird-T70-50S-Irrigation-Distribution/dp/B00J9Q2TC8/ref=sr_1_4?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1521909237&sr=1-4&keywords=1%2F2+inch+irrigation+tubing
You will need a hole punch (this was a lot cheaper at home depot) https://www.amazon.com/Drip-Irrigation-Standard-Tubing-Punch/dp/B0035LSREW/ref=sr_1_5?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1521909306&sr=1-5&keywords=1%2F2+inch+irrigation+tubing+hole+punch
Then you will need the smaller tubing. This will bring the water from the main 1/2" line to each plant. https://www.amazon.com/KORAM-Irrigation-Distribution-Tubing-Watering/dp/B013WJYKZQ/ref=sr_1_5?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1521909338&sr=1-5&keywords=drip+irrigation+tubing
Then you will need some emitters. There are a ton of options, I would recommend going to home depot to browse. https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=a9_asi_1?rh=i%3Alawngarden%2Ck%3Adrip+irrigation+emmiters&keywords=drip+irrigation+emmiters&ie=UTF8&qid=1521909391
For my emitters I use mostly drip but in a couple areas I use sprayers.
You are going to need some other random parts, and will need to take trips to the hardware store for them because if you are like me you measure once and cut twice. You might need T connectors, you will need the adapter to fit the hose to your water times, maybe a pressure regulator, and some hose terminators for the main line.
I am going to follow up with another comment on installation.
[edit] More detail on connectors
You will need the 3/4 to 1/2 connector. Check this list for a bunch of the connectors. I didn't need a pressure regulator because I have shit water pressure. But you might as too high water pressure is bad.
https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Garden-Center-Watering-Irrigation-Drip-Irrigation-Drip-Irrigation-Fittings/N-5yc1vZbx4u
This is a complet waterfarm kit, just need a res and grow chamber It's not very expensive but good stuff still.
Yeah, I suppose that would work. All you would need then is just a single stage temp controller such as this one:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015FKG4CC/ref=asc_df_B015FKG4CC5149652
Oh i was looking on my phone before. The retro-1800 model is a low flow sprayer head. Typically you see these in beds with drought resistant plants. These work fine but waste a little more water than drip tubing. This may be an easier way for you to lower your water out
Typically when someone says "drip irrigation" they mean tubes like this. Its the most efficient way to water the soil - there is much less wasted water. You just space the tubes as far apart as the emitters are spaced.
This tubing will work with the RCKIT. But it does not look like RCKIT includes a filter. The drip tubing gets clogged pretty easily so typically you put a filter like this inline after the valve and a flush valve that periodically flushes the drip tube of any sediment buildup. Both of thes would be placed in a small box. Sediment buildup and drip tubes clogging can be a big deal if you are using non-potable water like well water. It's not nearly as big of an issue for systems using potable water.
Tubbing: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BVS1YK/
Connector: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003WJRG30/
Cutters: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HSAPR8/
If you don't have too many you can use an automatic pump. https://www.amazon.com/Yardeen-Automatic-Irrigation-Sprinkler-Controller/dp/B01J9FXCS8/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=automatic+plant+water+pump&qid=1555690261&s=gateway&sr=8-3
I would offer to water them but I'm a total stranger and I just moved the only car I had in Cincinnati to Granby Colorado, I won't have a ride for a week or two. I'd just get one of these https://www.amazon.com/Yardeen-Automatic-Irrigation-Sprinkler-Controller/dp/B01J9FXCS8
The marine should hold (assuming it bonds to the plastics properly). Marine resins can take 7 days to fully cure. It's worth noting that there are some pretty extreme carcinogens in marine rated resins.
I'm not sure what hardware stores have in way of hydro-friendly gaskets, but you might be better off just buying the General Hydroponics Waterfarm kit. It's only $12 and you can pretty much guarantee it'll work if you drill the right hole size and just hook it up to new tubing of the same size (take tubing to a Home Depot, they should have tubing of the right size). If you decide at a later date you want a drip rig, you're already part way there.