Happy Grower, Author at SNAP Hydroponics Nutrient Solution

The SNAP Commercialization Project released a document on May 17, 2021 that contains official announcements and statements resulting from the Zoom meeting of SNAP Authorized Resellers that took place on May 7, 2021. It lists the project’s official responses to a number of issues concerning SNAP Nutrient Solution.

Why does the price of SNAP Nutrient Solution differ from other hydroponic nutrient solution in the market?

Issue No.1: Difference in the selling price of SNAP solution compared to other hydroponic nutrient solutions in the market

Official Statement: Unlike many hydroponics solutions in the market which have “MasterBlend” as background component, SNAP hydroponics solutions (SNAP HS) have unique combinations of chemical components, so much so that the resulting nutrient solution (NutSol), upon mixing of water and SNAP HS, has a pH already within the acceptable range (5.5-6.5), hence without the need to add
pH-Up or pH-Down compounds to the NutSol. Also, the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) fall within the acceptable range. Moreover, the unique combination of compounds in SNAP HS results in a stabilized pH of the NutSol even after the growing crop has taken up much of the nutrients from the growing solution, hence again no need to regularly monitor the pH. That is why, SNAP hydroponics
is usually termed as “set-and-forget” technology. In addition, the SNAP Project Management is currently in the process of looking
for cheap but good-quality reagents which will be used as substitute to some of chemical components used in producing SNAP HS in order to further reduce the cost.

How low can SNAP Nutrient Solution sell for?

Issue No.2: Presence of unhealthy/ unfair competition among Resellers concerning offering of lowest price in the market that gives undue disadvantage to fellow Resellers

Official Statement: As agreed at the Resellers Zoom meeting last May 7, starting May 16 of this year, a minimum floor price of PHP 295 for every pair of SNAP solution will be implemented by SNAP Resellers. Also, a former memorandum from the SNAP Management implementing a maximum price for SNAP solution is hereby revoked/repealed.

Are walk-in buyers of SNAP Nutrients’ Solution still accepted in National Seed Foundation?

Issue No.3: Allowing walk-in buyers to avail of SNAP HS

Official Statement: Walk-in buyers of SNAP solution will be accommodated only until the end of May of this year. After that, purchase of SNAP solution will be mainly through Accredited Resellers. However, exempted from this policy are Government staff and students which will utilize SNAP hydroponics for research purposes.

Are SNAP Authorized Resellers allowed to sell other brands of hydroponic solution?

Issue No.4: Whether Resellers of SNAP solution can be allowed to resell other brand(s) of hydroponic solution.

Official Statement: In the absence of current individual exclusivity agreement, Resellers of SNAP solutions are allowed to resell other brands(s) of hydroponic solutions.

Are SNAP Authorized Resellers allowed to have dealers working for them?

Issue No.5: Information about Resellers’ Dealers

Official Statement: If Resellers have dealer(s) under them, then they are requested to ask their Dealers to fill-out the Google form provided by the SNAP management.

Will the use of plant boosters and similar improve crops grown in SNAP Hydroponics?

Issue No.6: Use of other product(s) in hydroponic culture, aside from SNAP solution, like using plant booster, etc. that could have an effect on the effectivity of SNAP solution

Official Statement: The use of SNAP solution and water is already enough to produce a good crop. Therefore, adding other component(s) to the SNAP nutrient solution (NutSol) will definitely alter its original properties and efficacy, i.e. pH within acceptable range and steady pH during the crop’s growing period. Therefore, the SNAP Management shall not be responsible for any outcome resulting to the addition of those other compound(s) in the SNAP NutSol. However, it will be a different case if the plant booster or any other additional chemical is sprayed on the leaves of the crop.

Where can I find a list of SNAP Authorized Resellers?

Issue No.8: Identification of Accredited Resellers.

Official Statement: Right after the deadline of submission of requirements, the SNAP management will issue certificates to those Accredited Resellers that have completed the requirements, and will be posting the list of new Accredited Resellers for Year 2021-2022 on the FB page. Former resellers who will not be able to comply with the needed business papers will be temporarily deleted from the list until they have satisfied all the requirements.

Source: Official Announcements/ Statements as results of May 7 Zoom Meeting with Resellers

Posted on May 3, 2021September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

How are SNAP Nutrients Different from Other Nutrient Solutions?

Pair of SNAP bottles beside a stack of seedling plugs.

Allow us to clarify how SNAP nutrients are different from other nutrient solutions in the market.

There are currently many local and imported brands and formulations of hydroponics nutrients in the market because of the continues growth in popularity of hydroponics in recent years. However, not all of them are the same. Listed below are the reasons why SNAP nutrients is unique compared to other nutrient solution.

Before we discuss these, let’s review some knowledge that are important to consider when growing plants using hydroponics.

Mineral Nutrient Solution para sa Hydroponics

This is the heart of a hydroponics system. The mineral nutrient solution, also referred to as “nutrient solution”, “nutrients”, “nutsol”, is added to water and supplies to the root of the plants being grown in hydroponics. This supplies the nutrients that are required by plants in order to grow. The correct mixture and high quality of nutrient solution are essential in order to achieve excellent results with hydroponics growing.

Nutrient Solution pH

pH is a scale used to determine the acidity and basicity of a solution. The value of pH can range from 0 to 14. Solutions with a pH of 7 are considered neutral—neither basic nor acidic.

In order for plants to absorb the nutrients in the nutrient solution, it is imperative that the pH of the solution if in the right level. In hydroponics this is typically in the range 5.5-6.5 in general. Each different plant has their own optimal pH range.

Chart listing pH levels and different nutrients — Chart showing nutrient uptake depending on pH levels.

As plants are absorbing nutrients from the nutrient solution, its pH will change. When the pH of the nutrient solution goes out of the proper range the plants’ roots will be unable to nutrients even when they are in sufficient quantity in the nutrient solution. It is very important that the pH of the nutrient is remains in the proper range.

SNAP Nutrient Solution for Hydroponics is High-Quality

SNAP nutrients has been around sine 1999. Scientists of IPB-UPLB has taken years to research and continue to improve the formulation of SNAP nutrients.

Unlike other nutrient solution that has different ratios for leafy and fruiting vegetables, SNAP’s excellent calibration allows for it to use a single ratio of nutrient solution for different kinds of leafy and fruiting vegetables. In addition, one of the most important properties of SNAP is its high buffering capacity. This gives SNAP the ability to stabilize the pH of the nutrient solution.

SNAP Can Stabilize pH

Because of the high buffering capacity of SNAP, it resists the decrease in pH of the nutrient solution which allows for it to be used for over a month without it being replaced or adjusted. According to the official statement of IPB-UPLB:

In all of the extension materials and activities with regards to SNAP HYDROPONICS, the
authors/inventors: Mr. Primitivo Jose A. Santos and Eureka Teresa M. Ocampo, always claim
that, …”Unlike other nutrient solutions in the market that require frequent monitoring of the
pH to correct the rapid decrease in pH, the use of SNAP nutrient solution minimizes this
monitoring because of its high buffering capacity (resists drop in pH). This unique quality of
SNAP nutrient solutions makes it possible to use the nutrient solution in the hydroponic system
for more than one month without replacing the solution running in the hydroponics system”
This statement is issued for whatever purpose it may serve. Thank you.
SNAP Commercialization Project, Statement on the pH-stabilizing capability of SNAP, February 18, 2021

Has an Excellent Safety Record

In the over 20 years that hydroponics growers has been using SNAP nutrients there hasn’t been any reported incident that’s related to the use of SNAP nutrients. This supports SNAP Hydroponics being safe and hydroponics in general.

In addition, SNAP includes a Materials Safety Data Sheet from the start until now. This contains important safety information about SNAP Nutrients.

Conclusion

SNAP Nutrient Solution for Hydroponics is unique among hydroponic nutrient solutions currently available in the Philippine market. It has properties that makes it easy to grow plants in hydroponics. It is the result of over 20 years of research by scientists. And most of all, it has an extensive and proven safety record.

Posted on March 14, 2021September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

Hydroponics Business: Inspirational SNAP Hydro-Negosyo Stories

Thinking of starting your own hydroponics business and need an inspiration? You’ve come to the right place! Ever since I started SNAP Hydroponics Growers back in 2016, I’ve seen numerous members go on to start their own hydroponics-negosyo become successful in their craft.

Leveraging how easy it is to use SNAP Hydroponics in growing high value crops with minimal labor these individuals invested time and enough effort to make their business success. Below are a couple of hydro-negosyo success stories I witnessed unfold myself.

Hydroponics Business from the Backyard

Hydro business in operation. — Healthy lettuce heads growing in Sir Miko’s large-scale hydroponics business. Photo credit Sir Miko Santos.

Sir Miko Santos of Sariaya, Quezon started exploring hydroponics from his backyard and grew into a relatively large-scale commercial lettuce growing operation.

Story of Sir Miko’s Pogi’s Farm in Filipino with English subtitles.

Hydro-Negosyo on a Budget

Small-scale hydro business in operation. — Healthy lettuce heads in Ma’am Myra’s small-scale hydroponics business.

Ma’am Myra started her hydro business on a small budget after learning stumbling upon hydroponics online. With a small capital she was able to build a low-cost yet effective greenhouse and was able to realize a return of investment in just a few months!

The story of Ma’am Myra’s small-scale hydro-negosyo.

Starting Your Own Hydro-Negosyo

Need help getting started? I recommend subscribing to Happy Grower’s Channel on YouTube hosted by me. I regularly share inspirational stories like the ones above and teach my viewers how to do hydroponics absolutely free!

You can also join SNAP Hydroponics Growers on Facebook. I started this group back in 2016 in order to help people in getting started with hydroponics. There are many members who are more than happy to help you get started.

Of course you can also drop by our knowledge base where I curate numerous learning materials from this website.

Happy growing!

Posted on March 10, 2021September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

SNAP Hydroponics Nutrients’ Color Changed

Two pairs of SNAP bottles showing difference in color.

SNAP Hydroponics nutrients’ color changed in the most recent production batches SNAP Nutrient Solution for Hydroponics from IPB-UPLB. Previously, SNAP A is clear and SNAP B is yellowish. In the most recent batches, SNAP A has a yellow to brownish tint while SNAP B has retained its yellowish tint. According to an official statement from IPB-UPLB SNAP Hydroponics nutrients’ color changed because the usual brand that they use to produce the nutrients is out of stock and has to be replaced with another brand of the same chemical (answers to chemical safety concerns).

Will the SNAP Hydroponics Color Change diminish the effectiveness of SNAP?

IPB, UPLB adds that the effectiveness of SNAP A is not diminished by this change. In fact, the replacement component is more expensive but better quality.

Combined picture of the old batch of SNAP and the new batch of SNAP. — Screen capture of the post from SNAP’s official Facebook Page notifying its patrons of the color change.

Posted on March 1, 2021September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

Geoponia: Legitimate SNAP Hydroponics?

Is Geoponia a legitimate SNAP Hydroponics nutrient? Social media has been abuzz with this question in recent days.

Social media posts proclaiming that “Geoponia” is a legitimate SNAP nutrient recently surfaced. In these posts, it is claimed that the product has the same component as SNAP and that the product has been developed in partnership with Dr. Primitivo Santos. These claims reached IPB, UPLB and they promised an official statement. On March 1st the following statement is posted in the official SNAP Hydroponics Facebook Page:

Screenshot of a post from the official SNAP Hydroponics Facebook page. — Official statement by IPB regarding Geoponica.

For the information of everyone: Mr. Primitivo “Boy” Santos has resigned as Consultant of the UPLB SNAP PROJECT and created a private company to produce and market the same product, and the application for a license to do such had been applied at the Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO) of the University (UPLB), and is still in the process of evaluation. Apparently, there had been some misundestanding [sic] on the issue that their company had been allowed to produce and market SNAP solution while yet waiting for approval/disapproval of their application. The UPLB will pursue very soon legal action regarding this issue. Meanwhile, let it be said at this point in time, that the UPLB SNAP PROJECT is the only legally-authorized producer and main seller of the SNAP HYDROPONIC SOLUTION. Please be guided accordingly.
Official statement by SNAP Hydroponics by UPLB IPB

The Institute of Plant Breeding acknowledges Dr. Santos’ previous involvement in the project. However, even though the manufacturer has applied for a license to market the technology the applications is yet to be approved. As such Geoponia cannot be considered a legitimate SNAP Hydroponics nutrient.

The manufacturer is likely infringing on UPLB’s intellectual property rights. UPLB has promised legal action regarding the matter.

IPB reiterates that the UPLB SNAP PROJECT is the only legally-authorized producer and main seller of the SNAP Hydroponic solution and asks the public to be guided accordingly.

Posted on February 22, 2021September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

SNAP Commercialization Project

Pair of SNAP Nutrient Bottles with IPB in the background.

SNAP Nutrient Solution for Hydroponics is an outstanding product. Many would be surprised by the fact that SNAP is still only a research output of the Institute of Plant Breeding. The Institute and the SNAP developers has prioritized the continuous improvement of SNAP instead of pushing for its commercialization. Despite this, SNAP has been jump starting successful hydro-negosyos all over the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many to look for alternative sources of income. Consequently, interest in SNAP nutrients has increased. This renewed clamor for SNAP nutrients has revealed many areas for improvement for SNAP Hydroponics most of which are best resolved by going commercial.

The commercialization of SNAP has been spun off as a separate project and there has been lots of developments recently.

SNAP Authorized Resellers General Meeting

Last January 28th, a Zoom meeting was held among SNAP Authorized Resellers with SNAP commercialization on the agenda. Listed below is a summary of the meeting’s minutes:

Standardization of SNAP nutrients’ price
Annual renewal of accreditation as a reseller
Bracketing of resellers based on location
Enhancing the promotion/commercialization of SNAP technology
Conducting regular webinars on research developments on hydroponics using SNAP
Authorized reseller validation during purchase of SNAP solution
Improvement of packaging vis-a-vis price consideration
Coordination with established courier services regarding shipment of SNAP solutions to with the aim resolving common issues
Updated materials safety data sheet (MSDS)
Established protocol for issuing official receipts.

Official SNAP Hydroponics Facebook Page

As part of the commercialization project’s goal of further improving the promotion of SNAP Hydroponics. The Institute of Plant Breeding launched an official Facebook Page for SNAP Hydroponics.

Facebook Page cover photo of “SNAP Hydroponics by UPLB IPB” the official Facebook Page of SNAP Hydroponics

SNAP Sales Office

Beginning on February 22, 2020 the SNAP sales office will be in the National Seed Foundation (NSF). The location of the NSF is shown on the map below:

Conclusion

This is only the beginning. The future of SNAP Hydroponics is ever brighter. Hydroponics is the future.

Posted on August 28, 2020September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

Free Hydroponic Growing Medium: Pumice (Pinagbistayan)

Corn kernel sized light colored rocks held with two hands.

Pumice is one of the best hydroponic growing medium out there. Pumice is light, inert and porous. These properties makes pumice perfect for hydroponics as these provides high drainage, aeration and promotes healthy root growth. Compared to other hydroponic growing medium like hydroton (LECA) and perlite, pumice is naturally occurring and is thus eco-friendly.

About Pumice.

Pumice is a type of volcanic rock that has a foamy appearance. This is the result of the rapid expansion of gases when material gets ejected from volcanoes and rapidly cools.

White porous stones. — Close up picture of pumice stones.

Pumice is a major component of lahar and is plentiful in areas around Mount Pinatubo. Mount Pinatubo ejected millions of tons of pumice when it erupted in 1991. Since then these aggregates has been mined and used as construction materials.

Pumice in construction.

Construction sand sourced from areas affected by the Mount Pinatubo eruption are composed of pumice. Before use, construction sand is generally sieved by construction workers before it is mixed with concrete. The remaining material called “pinagbistayan” (or pinagsaligsigan?) is often just discarded.

Small light colored rocks of various sizes. — Pinagbistayan.

Pumice for Free

One can find pinagbistayan in construction areas. If the construction sand being used in these construction is sourced from areas around Mount Pinatubo affected areas then the aggregates left over when the construction sand is sieved is pumice.

Small rocks of various sizes strewn on the ground.

Be sure to checkout those construction areas for very useful stuff like pumice.

Can’t find pumice anywhere? Buy pumice from our shop!

Happy growing!

Posted on July 28, 2020September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower — 1 Comment

SONA 2020: Plant, plant, plant!

President Duterte speaking at Batasang Pambansa during his SONA 2020

Here are some of the highlights of SONA 2020 that many growers and online businesses should be excited about.

Retooling of our workforce via online training.

The president recognizes the need for our displaced workforce to be retooled/retrained if they are going to be part of the country’s economic recovery. He has ordered related government institutions to make online trainings free for our displaced workforce.

Creation of a Public Education Network

The president vowed to create a public education network for public schools and DepEd. This will include the most far-flung places where he plans to install satellite internet powered by solar panels. All of this he wants to be in place before he steps down in 2022.

This is an exciting project which will enable online education for the public at large. I’m hoping the network would be open for institutes and businesses like us who offer free and open education and training for all.

Renewed focus on Agriculture and Fisheries

The president reiterated the importance of agriculture and fisheries. He said his government will be working on aid and incentives for farmers and fisher folks in order to boost our agricultural out put.

He put renewed focus on the coconut industry. He also implored lawmakers to put the coco levy fund to use.

Implementing e-Governance.

The president has had enough of pila or queues. Especially now that we are grappling with a pandemic. He called on government institutions to make government services available online.

E-commerce focus

Of all the good things I heard from the SONA, this is what excited me the most. The president has called on law makers to protect sellers and buyers online and accelerate the growth of e-commerce in the country. In addition, he said his administration will put renewed focus on helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in the Philippines.

Strengthening the country’s internet services.

The president has called upon the country’s biggest telco players to improve their services before December of this year. Otherwise they will get shutdown and expropriated.

As we all know by now the president is a man of his word.

Planting the seeds of the future.

I watched SONA 2020. While I may not agree with everything the president does or says (as with any leader), I’m quite happy with the things we agree with. Here’s to hoping that the seeds he planted today would be the prosperous future we want for our country.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

Posted on July 18, 2020September 22, 2021 by Happy Grower

Knowledge Base Updates

We want to make sure you are well informed before you start your gardening adventures and before your purchase any of our products which is why why have an up-to-date knowledge base.

We recently updated it to include a guide on how to layout a greenhouse, a guide on how to use an auto timer switch and a guide to on how not kill cactus and succulents.

Steps in laying out a greenhouse

For all year round growing a greenhouse is an excellent investment. Make sure it is properly laid out and maximize the utility of available sunlight.

CLSU Type greenhouse modelled in AutoCAD. — CLSU Type greenhouse in AutoCAD.

View Greenhouse Layout Steps

How to use an auto timer switch

An auto timer switch is an electromechanical device that automatically turns a switch on and off on a timer. It’s simple enough to use but can be confusing for beginners. The perfect guide for anyone starting their indoor grow.

View How to Use Auto Timer Switch

Cactus and Succulents 101

Cactus and succulents is one of the most challenging plants to grow in the Philippines. Propagating them is keeping them alive is challenging.

Small potted cactus. — Small P. pringlei cactus in a pot.

View CnS 101 Guide

Happy growing!