I just came across some information for eliminating chloramine from my tap water. My city uses chloramine rather than chlorine, and unlike chlorine, leaving the water sit for 24 hours does not get rid of it. (Chloramine is a combination of ammonia and chlorine). It also eliminates chlorine and stabilizes pH levels. The article I read advises to use a water conditioner in my tap water prior to watering my plants. It's similar to what is used in aquariums. If anyone has tried this for their hydroponic plants, let me know. FYI... I also understand you can also use ascorbic acid but I found the calculations for adding to the water was too complicated. PS...I live on the 18th floor of an apartment building in Ontario, so hydroponics is my only option in the winter. Come summer, the balcony is my urban garden.

I form loose heads or sometimes tight; my leaves are dark and often light. Sautéed, tossed, or raw in a bowl — I give you vitamins and leafy soul. I am...??

Planted in rows, I grow low to ground; crunchy or tender, in salads I’m found. I wear a frilly top or stubby crown — roast me, steam me, or eat me down. Do you know what I will be?

When I grow up... I open with color, perfume fills the air; pollinators flock to my sturdy stare. Cut my stems for vases bright — lovers keep me through the night... ... what will I be?

I start as a blossom, hang in the sun, sweet and juicy when my season’s done. Birds and bees help me on my way — slice me, share me on a summer day.