This is common amongst many cloned varieties and most plants rebound by the second or third day however sometimes a wilted clone never recovers. Clones that fail may have suffered from one or more of he following conditions:

• Formation of an embolism in he cut end preventing the uptake of nutrients.
• Root rot resulting from reservoir contamination and/or excessive reservoir temperature. High reservoir temperatures compound problems further by dramatically reducing dissolved oxygen levels.
• The cloning solution is too concentrated (ppms are too high) and has led either to nutrient lockout or excessive soluble salt buildup with the cutting.

Many plant varieties are difficult clone and some are nearly impossible however do not be discouraged. Most varieties will root in 12-17 days but as long as the clones appear healthy and the cut ends have not become soft slimy and brown they are likely slow rooting varieties. Be patient and vigilant. Some tips and techniques that we have found to increase rapid rooting :

• Optimum reservoir temperature (68°-72° F) although temps as low as 58° F have been proven effective for some northern latitude varieties.
• Good quality filtered water (<30ppm) should be used to fill the reservoir in an attempt to eliminate contamination and nutrient interference.
• Ensure even and appropriate humidity levels (62%-75%) within the growth chamber. This range of humidity under most circumstances creates a suitable VPD (Vapor Pressure Deficit) consequently leading to moderate transpiration. Moderate transpiration gently encourages the new cutting to produce roots without over stressing their system.

If your cut ends appear brown and slimy your clones have likely failed. Contamination can occur at any time however it occurs most often at the time of cutting. Be certain to use steril technique to ensure the best success. Other factors like excessive reservoir temperature or contamination of the reservoir solution can cause failure as well.

Check the cut ends of your clones? Are they brown and slimy? If yes see above, if no check your reservoir temperature. Is it above 78° F.? If the reservoir temperature is in excess of 78° F, decrease the ambient room temperature and/or add ice to the reservoir until the desired temperature is reached. Be certain to use only ice made from filtered water. Second, check the canopy humidity. Ensure the humidity range is between 62%-75%. If the value is below the range use a fine mister bottle filled with filtered water and gently mist he canopy. If the value is to high remove the crystal polycarbonate lid for fifteen minutes and then replace.

See above. If above conditions are met, check the ppm value of your reservoir solution. The ppm value should not exceed 200 and the pH value should fall within range 6.0-6.4. High concentrations of nutrients combined with high or low pH value can lead to nutrient ?burn? or nutrient ?lockout? often causing brown margins and even death.

Check the circuit. Unplug the unit and allow it to set for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes plug the unit back in. If this does not sole the problem, carefully remove the pump from the bottom of the unit ensuring it is unplugged. Once the pump is removed visually inspect the pump is not damage or the intake or exhaust clogged. If no problem can be identified contact Brotherhood Products XXX-XXX-XXXX.

Turn off the power by unplugging the pump. Remove he top clear growth chamber exposing the lower cavity containing the manifold. Gently pull up on he manifold until it releases. Once removed, turn the unit over and visually ensure nothing is clogging the main inlet. Examine the stub to ensure solution is flowing freely from the feeder ports and hey are not clogged or restricted by debris. Finally, unscrew the red emitter and examine them each carefully. If they appear clogged use a paperclip or needle to remove he debris. Soak the manifold for a few hours in a bucket of filtered water and 3% hydrogen peroxide. After the soak and the jets have been cleaned reassemble he unit and place it back onto the stub to resume operation.