Plants need both full spectrum light sources and carbon dioxide to perform the essential process of photosynthesis. For larger grow rooms, supplement CO2 requires measured releases supplied. CO2 generators work by burning propane or natural gas and produce some unwanted heat. Compressed CO2 in large bulk containers produces no heat, but the tanks are heavy and bulky and need to be refilled often.
In smaller grows, many farmers like to use natural CO2 producers like activated yeast or fermenting organic materials. In this grow tip we will be covering how to make a yeast based homemade CO2 generator. To make your own you will need:
• 1 five gallon bucked with sealing lid (must be clean)
• 1 adjustable aquarium heater
• 1 plumbing fitting to attach hose
• (1) 1 foot section of hose
• Duct tape
• Yeast
• Sugar
1. Using the plumbing fitting trace a circle on the bucket lid for the hole for the fitting. Drill the hole and screw on the fitting.
2. Make a ¾ inch hole for the aquarium heater cord. Pull the cord through the lid, so that the heating unit is in the bucket, and secure with duck tape.
3. Attach the tube to the fitting on the top of the lid.
4. Add gallon of warm water, 4 ounces of yeast and 1 cup of sugar. Secure lid on the bucket and plug in the heater cord.
5. Replace yeast/sugar/ water mixture every three weeks.
