If you are having issues with water-borne molds and other diseases, sanitize your equipment with a 2% bleach solution or a commercial sanitizer such as GreenShield. Sterilize all pots, reservoirs, tanks, and any other equipment that contains or supplies water that will come into contact with the plants. Replace any contaminated growing media.

Summary: Sterilize your equipment to prevent water-borne molds.


This method is a simpler version of the first set of instructions presented in this article, and applies only in feet and miles. The formula you will be using is d = 1.2246* SQRT(h) (R + h)2  =  R2  + d2. Solving for h (making the assumption that R>>h and expressing the radius of the earth in miles, approx. 3959) yields the expression:d = SQRT(2*R*h)

Summary: Assume a flat plane or the ocean. Solve for the distance in miles by plugging in your height of eye in feet (h) into the formula. Derive the formula from the Pythagorean theorem.


Spelt flour is available in two varieties: white and whole. White spelt flour has the bran and germ removed so it will provide a lighter texture in baked goods. As a result, it’s the best substitute for all-purpose flour in your favorite recipes. You can usually find white spelt flour at natural food stores and the organic section of traditional grocery stores. Spelt flour is more water soluble than all-purpose flour. That means you don’t need to mix as much liquid into your recipes if you’re substituting spelt. Reducing the amount of liquid ingredients in the recipe by ¼ usually provides the best results. If you’re making a recipe with a liquid that’s hard to reduce, you can increase the amount of flour than you use instead. For example, if you need to add whole eggs, increase the spelt flour by 10 to 15% instead of reducing the amount of the eggs. The gluten in spelt flour is different than the gluten in all-purpose flour, so it’s important to handle the dough or batter you make with it accordingly. All-purpose flour can be kneaded or mixed for a long time, but if you overmix spelt batters or doughs, you can wind up with crumbly baked goods. Knead or mix until the dough or batter is just combined.

Summary: Use white spelt flour instead of all-purpose flour. Reduce liquids by ¼. Mix the dough or batter lightly.


You might think these things can wait until you’ve actually assembled a team. However, “branding” your team right away makes it easier to draw in players. Take into account your prospective player pool and think about what will appeal to them.  Use an online random sports team name generator for a unique name, or grab a dictionary and a thesaurus for some creative inspiration. Rely on your own artistic skills to create a simple team logo, or search online for logo creation sites—you may be able to get a custom design for as little as $50 USD. Choose a team color scheme and uniform style that you think will appeal to your target pool of players. For example, you might choose a name and color pattern that is reminiscent of a popular college or professional sports team in your area. If, for instance, the local college team is the Bears, you might call your youth team the Cubs. Use all methods at your disposal to let potential players (and parents, if it’s a youth team) know about your new team. Utilize your team name, logo, and color scheme as you spread the word.  Use social media to inform potential players and/or parents. Use your personal accounts, but also consider creating “official” team accounts. You may even want to create a team website. Don’t ignore low-tech methods like posting flyers in spots where potential players will see them. For example, you might post flyers for a youth team at the local library and ice cream shop. As you start to sign up interested players, make sure you have good systems in place for collecting key things like contact information and payments (such as registration fees). Set up a spreadsheet, for instance, to keep track of things such as:  Names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of interested players. For youth teams, you'll need information from parents or guardians as well. Completion of registration forms and collection of registration fees. Signups for insurance or insurance waivers (if required by your league). Relevant measurements for uniforms and equipment. As your team roster fills out with players who have signed up, ask for any preferences or restrictions regarding practice times and locations. Accommodate the players as best you can, but also make sure that the practice schedule works well for you.  For a youth team, for example, don't schedule late evening or night practices. You may also have to arrange for carpools with parents. Make sure you’re also aware of any league rules regarding practice times or locations.
Summary: Create a catchy team name, logo, and uniform. Spread the word about your team online and in person. Collect required info and payments from your players. Schedule practices that suit your team’s needs.