Yes, if you needed to cover a larger area/footprint, then 2 x 600ws would make more sense, but in a single tent it would be overly complex, crowded and expensive. The small gain in light and yield (if any) wouldn't really justify doubling the expense and hassle IMO. A 600w will make plenty potent product ;) Again, it's 90% in the genetics. So long as the plants gets sufficient light, food and water the genes will do the rest. The key is to not get in its way.

All lights, including HPS, have an ideal range from the plants at which they work best. Generally, it's within 18-24" of the tops. As a result, if you have a 4 foot tall plant the top will get good light, but bottom will suffer. For this reason, various training methods (SOG, SCROG, FIM, LST, etc...) have been used to even out the canopy and put all/many of the tops close to the light source in a single, uniform layer. As long as the bulk of your tops receive light within this ideal range they'll be fine. Any closer and they may get damaged by the intense light and heat and farther and they may loose density and take longer to ripen. Many fellow microgrowers actually use nothing but CFL/Fluorescent lights and get very good results.

There is no magic formula or way to guarantee yield. Never let anyone tell you differently. However, there are some rules of thumb. If you can get between 1/2 -1 gram of cured bud per 1 watt of HPS light that's good, but there's A LOT of variation in there, and much of it depends on matching just the right strain with just the right growing method in just the right environment. So, when they say a 1000w "can" make a "pound" (16 oz), that is an idealized figure. Sure, it "can" be done by the pros using various whiz-bang hydroponic set ups and lots of fancy fertilizers, etc...,but not always easily or very reliably due to all the many variables involved. They aren't "lying" per se, but there's always fine print. If you have the time, money and patience to invest into it, almost anything is "possible", if not probable.

In terms of harvesting, remember, plants are 70-80% water, just like us. As they dry and cure, they're going to shrink considerably and loose the vast majority of their weight, just like tobacco, dried herbs and mummified pharaohs. If you've ever cooked fresh spinach, you'll know what I mean. You can watch an entire bag of leaves wilt into a pile the size of your palm in just seconds as the moisture evaporates in the pan. Of course, we need this to happen so the buds can burn, but we also want it to happen to concentrate the aroma and flavor too (ie "cure"). For these reasons and more, you start to see why good weed costs as much as it does, especially considering it takes months per cycle and you have to grow at an almost 10:1 ratio! If you want a single dry, well trimmed and cured ounce you'll need to grow about 8-9 "wet" pre-trimmed, ounces (that includes the fan leaves, stems, other bits, etc....) :/ It's kind of depressing the first few times you harvest, but you learn to anticipate it eventually and plan accordingly. It's also why folks can't/don't stay "micro" for very long.

The good news is that if you're legal you can grow presumably grow outdoors in which case you can literally grow "trees" that will produce 10-15 POUNDS each and still only count a "1 plant" !!!! They would be 20 feet tall and would take almost a month to harvest, but it can and is done all the time (r/trees). Of course, outdoor come with its own challenges, but the rewards can be HUGE.

As for nutes, there are gozillions of brands, but they all do the same thing. The main difference is in hydroponic vs. organic systems. Hydroponics are like sci-fi steroids and the results can be AMAZING, but there's lots more equipment and noodling around involved and when things go bad, they go bad hard and fast. Soil/organic grows are generally easier and more forgiving, but usually don't yield as much. You'll have to decide which you prefer. The "benefits" nute manufactureres espouse are again, mostly marketing. While there are some very expensive nutes (ex: Advanced Nutrients) they're not really necessary and seem to work as well as any other. I run an organic set up, so for small set ups like ours, I use GeneralOrganics GoBox. It only costs about $40 and has everything you need for veg and flower. I can usually get 2-3 cycles (veg and flower) per box. Considering it lasts for +6 months, $40 is pretty cheap. Other companies make their own kits too, but the GoBox is probably the most common/popular. Just follow the directions on the side and you'll be good to go. It's basically all I use and I have no plans on changing.

http://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Box-Starter-Kit/dp/B004PS4B08

I'm not sure about the mechanics of becoming "legit"in Oregon, but my state will hopefully be following suit soon too (hopefully), so let's hope we both figure it out. One key is finding a robust, fast growing, large producing strain and the growing method it prefers (hydro v. organic). Every grower has their favorites, so I would ask around in your area, but Blue Dream, Girl Scout Cookies and just about any Kush variety perform well indoors and seem to be very popular and readily available on the West coast.

Hope that helps.

Ooh! Ooh! This sounds fun. I put some time into this when I should have been working, so I hope it helps.

1) Pruners - $20.49

This will be your most used tool. Eventually, you can upgrade into Felcos or Bahcos, but right now just get these Coronas. They're honestly a better size for hobby gardeners (fit right in your pocket), and the're very high quality for the price.

2) Your First Gardening Book - $17.06

Gardening Without Work by Ruth Stout. It's simple and gives you a general plan that really does work very well. It's a must for beginning gardeners, imho. You can find just about any other information you need on the internet (for now). Very little maintenance required, including fertilizing, weeding, applying pesticides, etc. (In a nutshell, the main step involves putting down an 8" layer of mulch...).

If you want to go with a more traditional raised bed setup, you should buy Mel Bartholomew's Square Foot Gardening. It's a fantastic back yard gardening book, as well, but the methods are kind of pricey and less sustainable. Still, it's a great system for growing a lot of food in limited space and it was the first book I used.

3) Indestructible Garden Trowel - $15.99

This will be your second most used tool. This particular model is about as indestructible as it gets short of this bad boy. You'll use it for digging holes for transplanting, mostly. Don't buy a cheap one or it will bend or break or both.

4) Fertilizer - $7.83 + $11.06 = $24.26

I chose cottonseed meal because that's what Ruth Stout recommends using (the rest of the nutrients in her system come from the giant mounds of mulch). Apply as she indicates.

I also added some Fish Emulsion Liquid Fertilizer because I love the stuff. It's a great way to add some extra nitrogen (and just a little P & K) mid season to your veggies or even to your compost pile when it gets carbon heavy. The stuff I have right now stinks, but the plants love it and it's easy to apply if you have a watering can.

Make sure you tailor your fertilizer to whatever system you're using, though. Don't fertilize like Ruth if you're not using her mulch based system. If you're using Square Foot Gardening, you won't be fertilizing at all, but you will be using lots of peat, vermiculite, and (different kinds of) compost. Etc, etc, etc.

5) Work Gloves - $10.97

These are specifically for women, but there's a button to switch to men's if that's you. You won't wear them all the time, but you'll be happy you have them when you need them. Notice that this comes with 6 pairs of gloves. I misplace gloves all the time, so having several is handy (hehe).

__

Total: $88.77

__

Notes:

• Save the rest for now. You're inevitably going to become enamored with something like earthworm casings, azomite, or a nozzle for your gardening hose down the line. Your future self will thank you for having some extra cash to buy it with, and this is plenty to get you started on your way to being a badass backyard gardener.
  
  
• The two above methods claim to be mostly pest free. In my experience, nothing is pest free, and you just need to grow enough quantity to weather the storm when it does randomly come. I would just concentrate on growing healthy plants first and foremost and then let the chips fall where they may. You might turn to pesticides later, and that's fine, but hold off on buying any until you know what is nibbling on your plants. Most pesticides are specific to the pest.
  
  
• Notice that I don't include any seeds. Your first year of gardening, I'd honestly recommend just buying live plants from your local nursery (and sticking to plants bred to survive in your region). Growing from seed can be hard, and your entire crop of seedlings dying is a humbling experience, I can assure you.
  
  The other reason there are no seeds on my list is because I don't recommend buying them on Amazon. I've had bad experiences every time I've tried it. If you need seeds, go with a good seed dealer, like Johnny's Selected Seeds, Burpee, etc, or find a good nursery in your area.
  
  
• If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.
  
  _____
  
  TL;DR: Pruners, a book to get you started, a durable trowel, fertilizer that is specific to your growing plan, and some gloves. Enjoy!

This is my first time growing, so please feel free to critique/rip into my setup, as I really appreciate all the help and knowledge! I actually ordered my seeds from JAHseeds a year ago, but never got my shit together enough to actually do anything with them.

 

I do want to take a quick moment to thank u/AFK_ing for the seeds first, as they were actually gifted to me for free. I placed an order on a whim one night, and then completely forgot about it. Turns out that JAHseeds never ended up depositing the interac transfer I sent them, so it inevitably expired. I had forgotten about the order completely, when out of the blue one day I received a letter in the mail complete with 12 free seeds and a handwritten 'apology' letter. This absolutely floored me, and left me feeling super warm and fuzzy inside. I've been cherishing the seeds up until now, so I'm really really happy that I can finally bring them to life :) Anyways....thank you JAHseeds!

 

Onto the setup! Currently running:

 

2x alibaba 240w QB

 

Promix HP + 2inch layer of worm castings on the bottom

 

Strain is The Best My seeds are not feminized however, so still unsure of sex.

 

Right now they are in 1 gallon pots and I'm planning on moving them into 7 gallon fabric pots when the time is right.

 

I kinda went ham one night and bought the entire GH nutrient lineup (including all the additives....) so I'm planning on sticking to their schedule (halved) throughout the grow. I know I could have done without a lot (most) of them, but yeah it was still cheaper than buying an Oz from the LP....Currently only feeding them water.

 

The tent is a GA 48x48x80, with a Vivosun 6 inch duct fan and carbon filter

 

Holmes Lil' Blizzard fan (this thing moves a lot of air)

 

I originally had a smaller tent so I started out germinating 3 seeds by dropping them in a glass of water for 36 hours. After they all popped, I planted them directly into coco pots. At that time I decided to change to a larger tent, so I dropped 2 more seeds into a glass of water to germinate. 36 hours later one of the seeds had popped, but not the other. I planted the one that popped, and left the other in the water for another 12 hours. At this time it still hadn't popped, so I just dropped it into a pot with the others. The one that never popped didnt end up coming through the soil until about 2 days ago (I was actually just about to give up on it). It's the tiny coco pot in the middle. Pretty sure it's gonna be a retard plant but whatever, I'll give it some love and care. Don't tell Justin. The nice healthy plant on the bottom right is the other seed that I germinated with it at the same time.


 

 

Close up shot 1

Close up shot 2



 

 

 

 

tl;dr i love you all

Okay... so here we go and please try not to take this as me being a jerk. I AM trying to help.

> 1. Which of EWC, Guano, bone & blood meal is required/optional?

1. Will I encounter any nutrient burn/deficiency with organics?<br />

2. For pests, how do I prevent/treat them organically? (predators? products? neem?)
   
3. How much can I expect to yield in these conditions
   
4. Is curing just a slower method of drying to improve potency?
   
5. Any other pointers/Tips/ Warnings for a new grower like me?
   
   
6. None of this is required. It is all optional.
   
7. What organics? Are you talking about soil? What do you mean here?
   
8. This was all covered in the www.growweedeasy.com website. And information lacking there can be easily sought out on the web. This leads me to think that you didn't "thoroughly read the growweedeasy easy site, as well the important threads in the microgrowery & autoflowers subs" as per your reply above.
   
9. Again, this is covered on that site. There are some rough calculations for this that takes your plant size/grow space and your light wattage and type and gives you a basic eyeball estimate of what you can expect. Something like ".5 grams for each watt" type of thing.
   
10. Once more... all those tips and warnings are on that website, and in various sidebar panels in the grow subs like you mentioned. And can be easily sought on the web.
    
    So, you can certainly find that information because you have "already visited those sites/subs and read the information". Or, you didn't read any of it... which seems more likely based on the questions you're asking.
    
    I'll try some:
    
    
11. Go with a premix soil to start with. No, not Miracle Grow. Get some Fox Farms soils... I am using their Ocean Forest soil (commonly referred to on these sites as FFoF/FFOF), or their Happy Frog soil. It has all those cool things already in the soil, like perilite, guana, worm castings, etc. It's pretty fucking sweet. Looks so much 'better' than standard big box potting soils.
    
12. I don't know what organics you mean. But I have not had any issues with the FFoF soil and some Alaska Fish Fertilizer I used during veg. I have used nothing else (yet) during flowering, because I transplanted right before flipping the lights, and the soil has everything it needs for a month or so (depending on frequency of watering). I plan to add in the "Morbloom" 0-10-10 also from Alaska in the next watering cycle and will use that for 4 weeks until I "flush".
    
13. There are too many pests for us to just say what info you need. I'll tell you this though: a plant's best defense is being healthy. So, the better you can make your grow environment for optimal plant life, the better your plant will be in fending off any pests. A few tips: standing water and high humidity will attract flying insects in any environment. So, keep your soil as dry as you can for as long as you can. Diatomaceous Earth on top of the soil will help keep that environment unhealthy for many flying insects like gnats and shit. Also, sometimes I will 'bottom feed' (watering into the runoff tray and allowing the soil/medium to soak up water) this will keep the top of the soil dry. As always, someone will be along to tell you why I am wrong in doing this... lol. Welcome to our subs!
    
14. We'll need to know a lot more information to determine what you COULD expect if everything goes fairly well during the 3-4 months of your plant's life. Honestly, it will take me longer to type out what info we need, and it will take you longer to type all the answers out than it would for you to find that on growweedeasy.com or google. Sorry to be blunt. Pun intended and also not intended. Schrodinger's Pun.
    
15. Yeah...
    
    So there are some helpful tips from me. As always, your mileage may vary, and that is usually based on the environment and level of care you give the plants.
    
    Here is the link to my 56 day veg grow diary.
    
    Here is the link to my 19.5 day flower diary.
    
    ProTip: click the heading link once the page loads to open the actual imgur link. The pictures are bigger and the text is easier to read.
    
    Please post a diary or blog so we can see what progress you have! And as always, hippy growing. I mean happy growing 8)...
    
    
    
    
    
    

Have you tried “a popular online auction website”? That’s where I got mine, planted them in spring (kinda late, like...late May), and now the plants are 8’ tall. Super easy, to facilitate growth: I legit just had my first year planting my garden from seed. I have a thriving balcony (nearly “walkthrough”) garden, now. I had no idea planting from seed was so easy. I normally start with transplanting plants. Now it’s gorgeous. Will send pics of entire garden if interested.

Morning glories, cbd cannabis, Passion flower, red Krishna holy basil, khat, a rare yellow saffron, California poppy, red corn poppy, wild dagga, Klip dagga, pretty much, entirely a garden full of herbal therapies. My Mary is getting super stinky buds, too!

And yes, I can’t wait to toke a fresh joint of a Klip dagga flowering plant that I raised myself. Tip; don’t get frustrated if it is just leaves - they typically don’t start growing pods until they’ve hit 6’ tall.

Until then, they just grow huge leaves (to hold the nutrients, just, I presume..,) and then after hitting 6’ they grow pods at the top, then start cascading down the entire plant, from top to bottom.

Just do the following:

• get seeds from eBay (I can attest that Klip dagga is easier to grow than wild dagga, from seed, based on summer progress) - leonotis nepetifolia (you don’t need seed pods, I just grew these from seeds alone).
  
  
• plant them in a regular sized planter with many drainage holes punctured in the bottom,
  
  
• with miracle grow for the soil - one meant for only raised potting beds/planters (they drain a bit easier)
  
  
• began with planting 20 seeds in a single typical shelf planter - 3.5 ft long 8 inch wide common at most every gardening store
  
  
• I know it seems like that’s a lot of seeds, but only 4 out of my 20 thrived, and no other plant behaved like that. They were the strongest out of their bunch, and evenly spaced themselves apart, taking all the resources to the “proven winner” seeds, taking resources harder than any other seeds.
  
  
• I hope you get good sun wherever you plant them, and especially pointing east-facing would be lovely - they love the morning sunrise - that’s when I get a batch every day
  
  
• periodically use a small amount of a water soluble 20/20/20 fertilizer when watering, once a week, at least, thrice a week, at most. Klip dagga seems to love this even ratio and just prefers it to all other fertilizers: I use jacks 20/20/20 from amazon - “dirt” cheap (haaa) compared to retail stores.
  
  
• in 3 months, you will have a thriving posse of Klip dagga plants.
  
  I promise as long as you have sun and don’t neglect them, you too can make this happen, in the spring/summer (warmer days of the year, in your climate, wherever it may be).
  
  I think tonight I’m gonna toke what I grew for the first time, so much better satisfying growing it myself and confirming it is klip dagga, rather than getting “Klip dagga petals” from an eBay seller and ending up with subpar unclean wild dagga or whatnot, worrying about adulterants, etc... this is as pure and homey feeling as it gets.
  
  Best of journeys! I believe you can do it!
  
  TLDR: you can - i believe in you!

The kratky method is a great beginners method to get into hydroponics. I currently have about 30 plants all doing the kratky.

General Hydroponics is a good brand and mix of nutrients. Its simple to use and doesnt require a scale to mesure stuff out. Use a tablespoon to measure stuff or a syringe.

Buy the PH up/down from GH too but be warned you will need to dilute it first or youre in for a fun time trying to correct your PH. (let me know when you get to this step and I can give better directions.

Get a simple PH tester. It will make your life a lot easier. Once I figured out that adding nutrients to my water brought my PH to around 5.9 I stopped testing everytime. (but i recommend that you do use it everytime)

You DO NOT need to grow in soil first, but like /u/BroposkisRump said you can just be careful washing off the roots. GOTO the youtube channels mentioned on check out Khang Starr's video first.

Some advice:

• Kratky is BEST for leafy plants like basil, lettuce, kale, etc.
  You cangrow those with no effort.
  
  
• Make sure all containers are opaque to prevent algae growth.
  
  
• Get seedlings and sprouts under a grow light to prevent stretching!!
  
  
• If you live in anything but a hot climate you will want a grow tent to grow peppers over winter - And a grow light - Get a digital timer and give your plants around 16 hours of light (you can get cheaper ones but I am showing you what i bought)
  
  
• Get 2 inch net pots and a 2 inch hole saw for your containers
  
  
• A fan on your peppers will help make then thicker and stronger plants and may help polinate them. You can also shake your plant ( thats what I do)
  
  
  Thats all I got for now. Once you understand this method try hydroponics using a different method as well.
  
  

I run all organic and here is a sample of my flower. Pic was taken during trimming.

Anyway, I'll give you my formula.

8ml/g gal of Nature's Nectar Nitrogen (this is derived from fermenting vegetable protein)

8ml/gal Humboldt Bloom Natural (This is derived from composting yucca, kelp, and soft rock phosphate which is used in organics)

2tbsp/5gal Soluble Seaweed (This product is amazing for potassium, iron, micronutrients, humic acid, and it builds a beneficials for rootzone health. It's an amazing product and there are many brands.)

These three products take care of my basic N-P-K. I use several other products to promote root growth and rootzone health, as well as some occasional micronutrients and foliar feeding.

In addition to these first three products add.

1 scoop/5gal of Great White beneficials (These are great for your roots. I use it until day 25 of flower)

8ml/gal Hygrozyme (This products is great for roots. The enzymes activate the beneficials and keep roots clean.)

8ml/gal Mendocino Honey (This product is mostly for feeding beneficials, but it contains a low dose N-P-K, magnesium, and a bunch of trace minerals and micronutrients)

1ml/gal Roots Excelurator (I use this until day 30 flower. It does what it says it will do... Roots grow faster and get bigger.)

During veg I alternate foliar feeding my babies with
15ml/gal Mendocino Cal/mag and then two days later...

10ml/gal Earth Juice Microblast (I foliar every other day during veg in order to avoid micro-nutrient deficiencies later on. )

I feed the above formula every other watering. I plant into 5 gal Happy Frog and immediately give them a half-strength feeding of the above formula (full strength Roots Excelurator). It usually takes 5-7 days for the plants to get dry right after transplant, and on the day they become light I feed plain water. Then the following feeding I switch to full strength nutes, and continue the every other watering-feeding. I give two weeks of flush at the end and the results are great.

I should also note that I don't PH the nutrients. It's not necessary at all, but I do filter my water. Also, I realize this is a somewhat expensive nutrient regimen, but it works fantastically. You can also grow with super-soil, which I am thinking trying soon. I love the idea of planting into soil and then feeding only water the whole time.

Hope this is helpful, good growing!

Yes! I was in the same situation, trying to come up with a small but effective system in college, and in a small apartment.

My design was based halfway off of what I'd seen from Jeb Gardener on YouTube, and the other half just what I could throw together with what I had lying around. Jeb is a little... well... interesting, but very informative.

Basically, what I did was get a 10-gallon flat stacker tote from Walmart, drill holes in it, put net pots in, clay pebbles, and rock wool cubes, and now I have a garden! It's really tough to describe all of the little intricacies with it, but this community has helped me out tremendously. By no means is my system perfect, and in fact, it's super Jerry Rigged and super jank, but it works! This whole process has been a great learning experience. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask in this community, or if you want to hear more about my system, feel free to DM me! Here are some photos!

Here are the various things I bought off Amazon to get me started!

pH down (the better kind)

pH meter (not available on Amazon anymore)

rockwool cubes (1.5")

General Hydroponics nutrients

pH up & down (the down didn't last very long, but the up seems to work fine. You probably won't need up near as often as down.)

air stones (these seem to do a fine job. Not the best certainly, but they work.)

clay pebbles (not sure what quality these are, but they do their job! Be sure to rinse very thoroughly.)

net pots (these work fine. Nothing special.)

EDIT: Added links to Amazon

Start small. It'll save you money, let you get your feet wet, and help you learn how to grow better, and then you can buy bigger.

My "starter package" is:

• A 2' x 2' x 3' grow tent - $55.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SWGYYWO
  
  
• A grow light ($90). I prefer COB's as they're easier to fix than blurples.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I4NY8KW
  
  
• A power strip zip-tied to a pole in the tent. Makes wiring prettier and easier. ($24) I chose a nice metal one, but you can use a cheaper one.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F8ZQYHA
  
  
• Hangers to hold the light ($8)
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0098R0600
  
  
• A fan and filter ($70), and variac ($90) to filter smell and move air to keep things cool. This combo is overkill for this tent, but I ended up using it on later tents so it's a good long-term investment. You can cobble something cheaper together with some work, but this "just works" out of the box.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Q2ER5C/
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006NGI8VS
  
  
• 5 gallon Smart Pot ($7) for growing, FoxFarm Ocean Forest Soil ($16.50), Plant saucer ($7) for growing. You can save some money here by shopping around. In particular, Amazon's price for FFOF is about double what I pay at the (very expensive) local "indoor gardening" center.
  https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Pots-5-Gallon-Soft-Sided-Container/dp/B002JUOWB2
  https://www.amazon.com/FoxFarm-FX14053-12-Quart-Organic-Potting/dp/B001I49Q98
  https://www.lowes.com/pd/Garden-Treasures-15-31-in-Rust-Plastic-Plant-Saucer/50445000
  
  
• Go Box Plant Nutrients. This should last you several grows.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004PS4B08
  
  
• Seed of your choice (let's say $10).
  
  So for about $420 (heh), you can get your foot in the door and start growing. This is a nice setup too, you can probably save $100 by shopping around, buying used, or doing-it-yourself. I've left off a few odds and ends like dryer duct, Fiskers for trimming, weed fabric pins for low-stress training, pitcher for watering, Mason jars for storage, but you can likely find those or suitable replacements around the house without spending money.
  
  I also have a Raspberry Pi 3 ($43) with Sense Hat ($37) and metal case ($15) in each of my grow tents to log temperature/humidity and other things. I'm interested in eventually using the GPIO functionality to water my plants too. Not critical, but definitely a nice thing to have, especially if you're the hacker type. If you go this route, you might look at raspiviv.com too.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C6FFNY4
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014HDG74S
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0722L338Q
  
  I'm glad I bought a good intro setup because I still use it now that I've upgraded. I now have a 3' x 3' GG Shorty tent with HLG 300 LED for flower, a 2' x 2.5' GG Shorty tent with two 400W Roleadro COB's for veg, and my "intro package" is now my germination/cloning tent (and drying tent too since several people suggested that too). Being able to have three tents (germination -> veg -> flower) working simultaneously is increasing my output quite sharply. I'm doing this to help a relative with cancer, so you may not need to go quite as crazy as I did.
  
  You mentioned using 35+ gs (~1.25 oz) a month. You probably aren't going to be able to grow that much given the constraints of tent size and light wattage (plus being a first-time grower! You'll learn a lot!). So once you get used to it, you'll probably want to buy more stuff. Marijuana isn't addictive, but growing marijuana absolutely is.
  
  Once you've got your hardware, the variable cost is seed (~$10), soil (~$5), nutrients (~$20), and electricity (~$30). From that, I'm going to estimate you can grow ~1.5 ozs (you can do more as you learn more though). So you're looking at ~$40/oz after you've made the initial hardware investment.
  
  Hope this helps. Depression, cancer, and everything else can just go suck it.

Second grow. 6 plants. Cherry OG. Emerald Triangle breeder. 4x4 tent active intake and exhaust. Two 440 CFM in-line fans with speed controllers.

600W six COB LED Vero29 3500k

Scrog vegged for 6 weeks. The net is 15” above start of stalk, which is higher than I normally have seen. More veg time and nutes used but I have so much room and it’s just physically easier for me

This is day 16 since 12/12 flip.

Elite garden nute line. Fox Farms Coco Loco in 5 gal fabric pots. Hand water and suck up runoff.

Mykos (added in grow medium and applied on top layer before watering every other time), Azos (added to grow medium and in feeding every other time), Mammoth P, Recharge (every other watering and will stop week 5 or 6), Bio Ag Liquid humic acid, dynagro protekt silica, dynagro mag pro, CalMag (0 ppm starting water)

They are needing water every 2 days now. RH is at ~50%

I added a box fan in the corner of my tent and it’s crazy good. I recommend. I have a 20” and on low setting it’s a gentle breeze AND it cools my light heat sinks. I have a 12” blizzard oscillating fan at pot level. Roots like oxygen.

Have been defoliating a lot. I’ll curve out on that as soon as I stop seeing them crowd. I really don’t want bud rot and want to promote good air flow to every top/bud.

And I like these

https://www.amazon.com/Gro-Pro-Level-Pot-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8

I did not pay that amount for mine, but if you can find them, it allows so much air to get under your fabric pots and great drainage. Same as bottom of a milk carton, but this is a good 2.5 inches off the flood tray

Anyone know how much UV-B I should add for more resin production? I read that having a UV-B light on for 4 hours in the middle of the 12 hour light is good but I don’t want to bleach my plants. Thanks!

Most hydroponic nutrients are going to be acidic so they'll be bringing the pH down by themselves.

To get your solution into the ideal pH range for hydroponics (5.5 - 6.5 pH although preferably somewhere between 5.8 - 6.2 pH) you will normally only need to use pH down.

Mixing up pH up might save you a few $ but it could also be unsafe and as well as that you'll have way more pH up than you'll ever need. Imo it's unsafe to mix these chemicals yourself and you won't be using much pH up anyway so just buy a small bottle of it.

pH down is either going to be phosphoric acid or sulfuric acid suspended in water. The pH down I use is 85% phosphoric acid in water which is the same percentage you'll get if you buy phosphoric acid by itself.

The 85% phosphoric acid is VERY strong and you'll need to be very careful with it, it will burn skin or even wood if you spill it.

85% phosphoric acid is also very potent. I usually need 5-10 drops (Somewhere around 0.1 ml - 0.2ml ) to get from 6.9 pH to 6.0 pH.

 

I'd highly recommend buying some hydroponic nutrients instead of miracle grow. A bag of General Hydroponics MaxiBloom will last you a long time. 7 grams mixed into 1 gallon of water will give a gallon of full strength nutrients which has a high enough EC/ppm even for a fully grown plant. I suggest taking a look at this article, taking note of the MaxiBloom reccomendations.

Your plant would at this stage only need 1/4 to 1/2 strength nutes (1/2 at most).

When I was using 7 grams of MaxiBloom to 1 gallon of water and leaving it over night the gallon would go to 5.8 pH overnight by itself, the MaxiBloom has a buffer into it.

The best way to mix it up is to get a small bottle, add the 7 grams of powder then add some very hot (but not boiling water) and then shake it until the powder is dissolved. After that, pour the small bottle of nutrients/water into a gallon jug and then add 1 gallon (3.785 litres) of water.


Sorry for the long post, lol, I'm quite passionate about this topic.

So this morning when I left for work all I could see was still the white stem way down in the hole. I got home to my first set of cotyledons and also first of real leaves!

I also got a ph control kit today, and it looks like my ph is sitting right around 6, so I believe that is perfect.

I was planning on just giving this a shot with minimal effort to see how it goes. Growing a variety of herbs in the Aerogarden was super easy, and it was hard to keep all the growth under control.

After doing more reading(because when I start doing something I have to do it right) I realized that the LED panel on the Aerogarden isn't even close to the wattage that anyone else is using. The starter package on growweedeasy.com includes a 250w light. The one on the Aerogarden is 20w, but the directions say you can keep it just a couple inches above the plant, whereas all the other guides for higher wattage lights say they need to be kept much further away. I would guess that is just because they have so much more wattage?

I grow lots of normal plants as well and don't get too much actual sunlight, so I have a couple extra reflectors, CFLs, and another LED grow bulb sitting around. I have 1x LED! and 2x CFL! extra.

How does mixing LED and CFLs work? I'm thinking I will need to get this thing all the light I can. Should I get a light socket extender and splitter so that I can get both the CFLs into a reflector, and also use the extra LED?

I plan on low stress training it to keep it as short as possible as the Aerogarden light only extends 12inches. I am able to extend that a few more inches using that knife with a stick taped to it, but then the cable becomes the limiting factor.

I also don't plan on moving it out of the 1gal Aerogarden reservoir, so it will probably be limited in size by that as well. The aerogarden comes with these nutrients!(4-3-6) that I had been planning to follow their recommendations of use which is basically give it 2 capfuls(maybe a couple mL) every other week when you change out the reservoir water. In between feedings just keep the water level high. Should I actually buy legit nutes!, or will the Aerogarden ones do a pretty good job?

Sooo I guess my questions are:
Anyone grown with an Aerogarden before? How'd it work? Any tips?
Anyone mixed LED and CFL lights before? Is that fine to do?
I should definitely use all the lights currently available to me, and I should probably even get a couple more 42w soft white CFLs right?
My goal was to keep this cheap and easy, but I'm thinking I should also get another timer for all these extra lights I plan on using now. Using the Aerogarden timer for the 20w LED and then turning on the other lights manually probably won't be anywhere near as effective, and also takes away from the easy factor.
Can I use the aerogarden nutes to keep this easy and cheap, or should I get some legit nutes?

Thanks!!

I started with 100 bucks bought 4 t8 shop lights from home depot, 2 pieces of plywood, and 4 5 gallon buckets. Used organic miracle grow and was in business.
I got like 4 ounces of bud from that investment, but it was a pain too use and I had so many problems, that the 2nd and 3rd harvests; were so bad I was dry for 3 months.

But I've learned a lot since than if you have the money, these items will save you the bullshit that i went through.

600w grow light $200

[Carbon Air Filter]
(http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0052ZPMAG/ref=oh_details_o09_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) $175

Some Bubble pack insulation at home depot $50-100

[General Organics]
(http://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Box-Starter-Kit/dp/B004PS4B08/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367524539&sr=8-1&keywords=General+Organics) $40 starter box will last one cycle

these should get you through your first grow np. and I've already recouped all of the money I've spent on these items with the first harvest, I was paying 350 an ounce before hand to a dealer and now for way pennies on the dollar I have the dankest dank around and it's fucking awesome fucking awesome.

Reading is ok but once you get started you'll realize that most things people post are bs and the best way to learn it is to just do it, and experiment on your own; most things look much harder than they actually are.

I feel so liberated now that I can produce my own and the money that you save omfg the money you save.

Two days ago, the Tangilope's leaves went a little limp. Upon inspection of the soil, it appeared to me it was due to the cup starting to fill with roots and quickly sucking the cup dry of most water. I do not believe it is over-watering, but I could be mistaken. Last night, I decided to move it to a 2gal smart pot filled with approx. 3/4 Roots Organics and 1/4 chucky perlite moistened for a very light and airy mix. I then used approx. 6oz of water to water mostly around the root ball (no run-off, I didn't want to drown it). It's still growing, but I'm hoping the leaves will bounce back to their perky selves soon. I plan on letting the soil dry out quite a bit before the next watering. And as soon as it bounces back and grows one more node, the topping and LST will begin.

The Vanilla Kush is getting big quick, and I'm liking how wide the leaves are looking already. I was hoping to get a more Indica pheno to balance the tangilope. I looked at the rootball last night, and I think it could go a bit longer without transplant. I watered it again this morning, so it will be ready for a transplant tomorrow night.

Things are looking pretty good so far, and I'm getting excited now that the plants are starting to move along. I can't wait to train my first couple plants. Topping, tying, and scrogging to come. Thanks for looking

INFO

Plants: (1) Feminized Barney's Farm Vanilla Kush & (1) Feminized DNA Genetics Tangilope.

Tent: 3'x3'x6' Apollo Tent

Light: iPower 600w closed hood running at 50% for seedlings and about 14" away from plant.

Fan: 440CFM exhaust fan

Carbon Scrubber: 6"x16" phresh filter

Soil: 1/3 roots organics & 2/3 pro-mix HP for seedling stage

Nutes: General Organics GO Box

Pots: RR > solo cup > 1 or 2gal smart pot > 5gal smart pot > 7 (maybe)

PH Kit: General Hydro

Seed Starter: Rapid Rooters

It's early dude. That plant needs to go until October at the earliest. You can give it some nutrients, maybe grab a quart of an organic nutrient like maybe this or this.

the castings will help, but they take time before those nutrients become available. the castings must go through the krebs cycle prior to the nutrients becoming available. it might be futile. the liquid nutrients above will be immediately available for the plant.

as far as the blackstrap molasses goes, it's not a fertilizer for your plants. it is food for your beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizae which will help promote a healthy root system. there are other carbohydrates out there like sweet that will help with flavoring, which i recommend above the blackstrap molasses.

you cannot tell the ripeness of the plant by looking at the hairs. different strains will behave differently. i have some strains that will still have all white hairs when i harvest all the way to strains that have orange hairs week before they are ripe. you can tell the ripeness by getting a 20x microscope and checking out the trichomes (crystals). they will start out clear and start to get cloudy then orangish or amber in color. as they get more amber this indicates higher levels of CBD's and less of the THC. most growers like to get their plants go until there are 25-50% amber trichs. i know it's hard to wait, but it'll be well worth it. you can snatch a couple of the bottom branches for now, but if you are patient she will yield 2-3x what she has on her now. happy growing.

These are my suggestions - feel free to ask more questions if you need anything!

Read these guides (not by me) - I wish I had had something like this when I started: http://homegrow-pro.com/quantum-board-build-grow-tent/ And this one: http://homegrow-pro.com/the-3x3-grow-tent-setup/

Essentials

• Grow Tent: 3 ft x 3 ft x 6 ft is the size you'd probably want. This is the one I bought: https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Observation-Window-Growing/dp/B01DXYMKIO
  
• Light: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Kingbrite-240W-LM301H-with-CREE-660_62138608878.html?spm=a2700.icbuShop.41413.39.e07058f6OqSWQf This light is a fantastic LED quantum board that is very easy to assemble - I got the 3000K one with the epistar, but this one has the better CREE version
  
• Fabric Pots: Head to Amazon and grab yourself a 5-pack of 7 gallon fabric pots https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Gallons-Thickened-Nonwoven-Handles/dp/B00TF9E9PY/
  
• Also get yourself a saucer (you can get this at any garden store) and a pot elevator for each pot (pot elevator example: http://amazon.ca/Gro-Pro-725675-Level-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8/)
  
• Soil: Get yourself a bail of Pro Mix HP with mycorrhizae (it's cheap, reliable, and hard to overwater) from Canadian Tire, Rona, any store really and get also a bag of earthworm castings. Cover the bottom of your fabric pot with the castings (2-3 inches deep) https://www.homehardware.ca/en/20l-organic-worm-castings/p/5025712
  
• Nutrients: Gaia Green Dry Amendments (All Purpose and Power Bloom) Mix the All Purpose in with your Pro-Mix HP and then top dress your "soil" every month, changing it to Power Bloom during flowering https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-all-purpose-4-4-4.html https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-power-bloom-2-8-4-power-bloom-2-8-4-2kg.html
  
• Ventilation: Get the AC Infinity Cloudline T4 - it's absolutely worth it. Then purchase a 4-inch carbon filter and 4 inch tubing from Amazon (branding doesn't matter for these two things) https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-CLOUDLINE-T4-Ventilation/dp/B06ZXWN3BG https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-Dual-Layer-Aluminium-Ventilation/dp/B071LHCFZ8 https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Australia-Charcoal-Pre-filter-Included/dp/B01DXYMBU6
  
• Timer: You can go cheap on this, but also consider a smart timer (like a Wemo) https://www.amazon.ca/Insight-Switch-Enabled-Compatible-Amazon/dp/B00EOEDJ9W
  
• Seeds: Jahseeds.ca - Canadian breeder, amazing beans, amazing price! Go with feminized seeds for your first round. https://jahseeds.ca/shop?olsPage=t%2Ffeminized-seeds
  
  
  Extra accessories
  
  
• 2 fire extinguishers (one for just outside tent, one for outside the room, where the tent is located)
  
• Pruning shears (seperate ones for trimming live plants and ones for harvesting) https://www.amazon.ca/Pruning-Gardening-Straight-Stainless-Precision/dp/B076HL5JJM
  *a lighter (for sanitizing)
  
• a set of tweezers, for planting your sprouted seed
  
• some garden gloves
  
• rope ratchets for your lights
  
• zips ties for protecting things
  
• binder clips (for low stress training)
  
• plant ties (soft rubber and wire kind)
  
• watering can
  
• two pairs of measuring spoons for dry amendments
  
• a clip on fan and rotating fan (for air circulation over and under the canopy)
  
• markers and a pack of tag plant markers for identifying plants
  
• soil moisture https://www.amazon.ca/Soil-Moisture-Sensor-Meter-Hydrometer/dp/B014MJ8J2U
  
• paper towels (for germination)
  
• Bucket Head Wet Dry Vacuum Powerhead Lid for 19 Litre (5 Gal.) Multi-Use Buckets great for gathering up the excess water and tipped soil) https://www.homedepot.ca/product/bucket-head-wet-dry-vacuum-powerhead-lid-for-19-litre-5-gal-multi-use-buckets/1000666690
  
• 3 five gallon buckets (1 for the buckethead vacuum and 2 for extra water reservoirs) and two lids
  
• 3 surge protector power bars
  
• Various AC power extension cables
  
• 1 trellis net (for ScrOG training)
  
• USB microscrope (used to check the trichomes at harvest - if you want you can also get an adapter so it plugs directly into your smartphone, as opposed to plugging it into a computer) https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM
  
• 62% Boveda packs for curing
  
• Mason jars for curing and storage
  
• hanging rack for drying (you can substitute this for a hanger and some plant ties)
  
• Duct tape
  It's a little more expensive at the start, but this setup will pay for itself within two harvests.
  
  
  With this setup you can expect to yield between 8 to 10 oz every run (even with autos), once you grow accustomed to the cycle.

I actually didn't tally up the cost as that wasn't really of a concern to me, but I'll try my best to provide links to the things I bought for this. Feel free to add it up for me!

• Lighting
  
  • T-5 Grow light (came with 6500K bulbs)
    
  • 2700K bulbs
    
  • Grow light hangers
    
• Grow medium
  
  • Net Cups
    
  • Black Buckets
    
  • Black lids
    
• Nutrients
  
  • General Hydroponics Flora Series
    
  • General Hydroponics pH control kit
    
  • pH/EC/Temp Meters
    
• Grow tent
  
• Air ventilation
  
  • The only thing I ended up using from this kit was the cheapest part, the ventilation duct...
    
  • The fan from this kit is way too powerful for my setup because my humidifier couldn't keep up
    
  • I didn't use the carbon filter because I'm not growing weed.
    
• Water Distiller
  
• Humidifier
  
  • The cheaper the humidifier, the better. I first bought (and destroyed) one that had some sort of digital switch, so it would always be in the off state when you first supply power to it, meaning you can't turn it on/off with just a relay.
    
• Plumbing
  
  • Aquatec 8852 booster pump
    
  • 2 Gallon accumulator tank
    
  • Pressure relief valve
    
  • Tubing
    
  • Inline Pre-filter (Sorry they must have taken the product down...)
    
  • Misting nozzle T's
    
  • Tube ball valves
    
  • Analog pressure gauge
    
  • Misting Nozzles
    
    • Note that these nozzles are meant for WAY higher pressure systems (~1000psi) and I actually had to take out the spring for them to operate correctly, but they never clogged up, are easy to clean, and worked perfectly for me!
      
• Electronics
  
  • Raspberry Pi 3 kit
    
  • Humidity sensor
    
  • Pressure sensor
    
  • Water solenoid valve
    
  • 5V 4-channel relay module
    
  • Analog-to-digital converter
    
  • 24V to 12V converter
    
  • 24V Power supply
    
  • Resistor kit
    
  • Semiconductor kit
    
  • Circuit boards
    
  • Standoffs
    
• Wiring
  
  • 22 gauge stranded wire
    
  • 22 gauge solid wire
    
  • Power supply cord
    
• Connectors
  
  • Electronic Connectors
    
    • JST-XHP Connectors
      
    • JST-SM Connectors
      
    • Dupont Connectors
      
  • Plumbing Connectors
    
    • Bulkhead connectors
      
    • Quick-connect kit
      
    • NPT to quick-connect connector
      
      I also bought various tools, like crimpers, Dremel kit, drill, etc, but I don't consider those to be project-specific as I'll have them for the foreseeable future. Let me know if there's anything you see that you think I missed!
      

In b4:

• Yes, I know I need to wrap or paint those mason jars. I'm lazy and unmotivated, and the plants seem to do mostly okay despite all the nasty crap in the water.
  
• Yes, I know I need to exchange the water more often. See above.
  
• At some point I plan to add more mylar film to the blank wall areas and around the sides of the tomato stand.
  
• My nutrient mix is the standard MasterBlend mix. I aim for a pH of 6.5 to 7, but I only measure it when I make the mix. I never monitor the water once the seed is started.
  
• Seeds and planted dates are on the paper labels.
  
• Yes, I know that number of chives is basically nothing. I ordered some microgreens stuff (thanks guys!) to grow things like that in larger numbers.
  
  Been doing this for several months now. I use the same nutrient mix and other configurations for all my plants. They seem to do mostly okay.
  
  With this nutrient mix/pH/lighting setup I have been very successful at growing lettuce, basil, cilantro, and dill. I am now expanding to other seeds to see what can survive without needing multiple configurations. That is, I'm not gonna make two different nutrient mixes.
  
  Only the Aerogarden is different because it uses liquid nutrients. Since the roots in different pods tend to mix, I've learned the hard way that transplanting from a mature Aerogarden into a mason jar or bucket is not realistic. So now I basically just let it go until I'm ready to harvest everything in the Aerogarden and start a new crop. This thing is pretty sweet.

Thank you!! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072F2BL9D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_YZsPBb97764EX
These nutrients worked perfectly. Even without proper monitoring of concentration or pH it definitely did the job! Every other week I preferred to stir the undissolved salts that day at the bottom of the tote. Luckily there was never any shock to the plants!
So kind of a funny story; I started in peat pellets and my seedlings came up maybe b/w 3-7 days, they were very leggy due to not having a proper light or light cycle going. Then I was away for a weekend and everything dried up. I took what I thought I could salvage, cleaned off all the soil, transplanted them into the netcups and sure enough they survived to make it this far!
It’s a miracle there was no root rot from the leftover soil that stayed on the roots!
I chalk it up to lots of love and believing they would make it lol. But seriously, nature conquers all and these are relatively not very needy plants :)

Saved this comment from a fella in micro grocery to start my set up

These are suggestions - feel free to ask more questions if you need anything.

Read this guide - I wish I had had something like this when I started: http://homegrow-pro.com/quantum-board-build-grow-tent/ Read this guide too: http://homegrow-pro.com/the-3x3-grow-tent-setup/

Essentials

• ⁠Grow Tent: 3 ft x 3 ft x 6 ft is the size you'd probably want. This is the one I bought: https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Observation-Window-Growing/dp/B01DXYMKIO
• ⁠Light: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Kingbrite-240W-samsung-lm301h-288v3-quantum_62120261175.html?spm=a2700.7803241.0.0.31d73e5fhFxf6a This light is a fantastic LED quantum board that is very easy to assemble - I got the 3000K one with the epistar
• ⁠Fabric Pots: Head to Amazon and grab yourself a 5-pack of 7 gallon fabric pots https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Gallons-Thickened-Nonwoven-Handles/dp/B00TF9E9PY/
• ⁠Also get yourself a saucer (you can get this at any garden store) and a pot elevator for each pot (pot elevator example: http://amazon.ca/Gro-Pro-725675-Level-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8/)
• ⁠Soil: Get yourself a bail of Pro Mix HP with mycorrhizae (it's cheap, reliable, and hard to overwater) from Canadian Tire, Rona, any store really and get also a bag of earthworm castings. Cover the bottom of your fabric pot with the castings (2-3 inches deep) https://www.homehardware.ca/en/20l-organic-worm-castings/p/5025712
• ⁠Nutrients: Gaia Green Dry Amendments (All Purpose and Power Bloom) Mix the All Purpose in with your Pro-Mix HP and then top dress your "soil" every month, changing it to Power Bloom during flowering https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-all-purpose-4-4-4.html https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-power-bloom-2-8-4-power-bloom-2-8-4-2kg.html
• ⁠Ventilation: Get the AC Infinity Cloudline T4 - it's absolutely worth it. Then purchase a 4-inch carbon filter and 4 inch tubing from Amazon (branding doesn't matter for these two things) https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-CLOUDLINE-T4-Ventilation/dp/B06ZXWN3BG https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-Dual-Layer-Aluminium-Ventilation/dp/B071LHCFZ8 https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Australia-Charcoal-Pre-filter-Included/dp/B01DXYMBU6
• ⁠Timer: You can go cheap on this, but also consider a smart timer (like a Wemo) https://www.amazon.ca/Insight-Switch-Enabled-Compatible-Amazon/dp/B00EOEDJ9W
• ⁠Seeds: Jahseeds.ca - Canadian breeder, amazing beans, amazing price! Go with feminized seeds for your first round. https://jahseeds.ca/shop?olsPage=t%2Ffeminized-seeds

Extra accessories

• ⁠Pruning shears (seperate ones for trimming live plants and ones for harvesting) https://www.amazon.ca/Pruning-Gardening-Straight-Stainless-Precision/dp/B076HL5JJM
• ⁠a lighter (for sanitizing)
• ⁠a set of tweezers, for planting your sprouted seed
• ⁠some garden gloves
• ⁠rope ratchets for your lights
• ⁠zips ties for protecting things
• ⁠binder clips (for low stress training)
• ⁠plant ties (soft rubber and wire kind)
• ⁠watering can
• ⁠two pairs of measuring spoons for dry amendments
• ⁠a clip on fan and rotating fan (for air circulation over and under the canopy)
• ⁠markers and a pack of tag plant markers for identifying plants
• ⁠soil moisture https://www.amazon.ca/Soil-Moisture-Sensor-Meter-Hydrometer/dp/B014MJ8J2U
• ⁠paper towels (for germination)
• ⁠Bucket Head Wet Dry Vacuum Powerhead Lid for 19 Litre (5 Gal.) Multi-Use Buckets great for gathering up the excess water and tipped soil) https://www.homedepot.ca/product/bucket-head-wet-dry-vacuum-powerhead-lid-for-19-litre-5-gal-multi-use-buckets/1000666690
• ⁠3 five gallon buckets (1 for the buckethead vacuum and 2 for extra water reservoirs) and two lids
• ⁠3 surge protector power bars
• ⁠Various AC power extension cables
• ⁠1 trellis net (for ScrOG training)
• ⁠USB microscrope (used to check the trichomes at harvest - if you want you can also get an adapter so it plugs directly into your smartphone, as opposed to plugging it into a computer) https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM
• ⁠62% Boveda packs for curing
• ⁠Mason jars for curing and storage
• ⁠hanging rack for drying (you can substitute this for a hanger and some plant ties)
• ⁠Duct tape

It's a little more expensive at the start, but this setup will pay for itself within two harvests. With this setup you can expect to yield between 8 to 12 oz every run, once you grow accustomed to the cycle.

For veg/clones you should be using 6500k lights or T5 lights, not 2700k. 2700k is for flowering.

That soil says "feeds up to 4 months". In general, you don't want soil with built-in fertilizer. Get the FF soil and some perlite. You're going to want 25-40% of the mix to be perlite.

Don't use Miracle Grow. Go with Fox Farms Trio or GH GO Box. If you really want to save money on nutes (you don't), grab some fish fertilizer ($8 at Home Depot) for veg and Morebloom ($6 at Home Depot) for flowering. If you go with the cheap nutrient options, it'll show, but it's better than nothing.


HID isn't complicated. You don't need to be smart to set it up. A system like this comes with everything you need. Any real light system (including LED) is going to require ventilation (inline fan and duct).

Good luck! Keep us updated.

IMO, despite the products being packaged very alluringly, they’re overpriced. The premium you’re paying for is essentially the perception of “prestige” you get with owning an ADA product. Although I respect the legacy & impact he’s left behind in the aquascaping hobby, I find his ideology & branding presumptuous lol. I have a personal bias, & am not discrediting the quality of ADA products at all.

However, I think there are other products out there that perform equally just as well (or better) for less. The thought of pricing would-be aquarists out of this hobby based on wealth/class leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.

I’ll get off my soap box now lol, I apologize. As for fertilizers, I use & recommend NilocG’s Thrive. Very easy to dose, & have seen fantastic results in my own tanks. The NilocG website is down rn, but I would recommend buying it there instead of from amazon. Some other fertilizers I would recommend are:

• The 2HR Aquarist APT Complete
  
• Green Leaf Aquariums (GLA) Fertilizers
  
• Marcus Fish Tank’s OG Fertilizer
  
  Best of luck to your tank endeavors! 🌿

Here's what I have so far and my quick write up.

My dad started the tomato plant that I am using in soil. He had too many for his garden, so I used that instead of starting one from seed in rockwool. My next plant will be started from seed.

I picked up a 5 gal bucket and Lid from Home Depot. <$5.

I cut a hole in the Lid to fit the 3" Net Cups. I put one right in the center. I quickly found out the cup it too small to support the plant so I had to use a support stick. I just bought this 6" net cup bucket lid.

The plant is supported in Expanded Clay balls. I chose this material as apposed to 'Hydroton, Coco coir, Viagrow stones, pearlite...' because from my very little research I found the clay to be the most environmentally friendly and easiest to use, disclaimer: I could be very wrong here.

The nutrient solution used General Hydroponics Maxi Grow. Simple to use, add X scoops per X gal of water. I am about to switch to Maxi Bloom. She is flowering and starting to produce fruit. I do now know when the best time to switch solutions. I am learning by experiment here.

To keep the nutrient solution oxygenated, I used this Air pump,two of of these air stones, and tubing. Any items will do, I used this products because I know an employee of Penn Plax and got them for cost $. Any pump will work, I got a two outlet pump for future expansion.

You should also be sure to have the correct pH for your particular plant. Here is a chart and a great site. I used this pH Test Kit and pH adjust.

It's that simple. Right now the plant is outside and gets about 8 hours of sun. I plan on keeping it outside as long as possible, then will bring it in and have to choose a light source for it.


tl;dr What I used for my first DWC tomato plant experiment. Step 1: Click all links above. Step2: Buy. Step 3: Tomatoes

Edit: Also, Watch this video

Honestly, you need to get on a forum such as rollitup and start reading the stickies at the top of each section until you have a better understanding. Read, Read, Read and read some more. Are you doing this for fun? Dropping a seed in soil to see if it sprouts? Or are you serious and really wanna grow some bud. If its the second option than lets be logical. How much bud do you think you could get off a plant that's growing in a small cup? I know some people start their seedlings in solo cups but from the pics it looks like your trying to do the entire grow in the solo cup. Man, there are just way too many bases to cover here but please do not give up. Keep growing the plants you have while you do more research from an informational dense place such as what I mentioned above. Just to touch on some bases you gotta get those plants out of those solo cups and into larger containers. You need A Lot more light (cfl's by the pic) and get them within 3 inches of the light or they will keep stretching the way they are. I wouldn't even expect much off those plants either. Just apply everything you learned from this grow and from your research to your next and hopefully it will be more successful. Here is a good complete line of nutrients for someone starting out and it should give you an idea of what your plant needs to thrive. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004PS4B08/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1419201497&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX200_QL40 Nutrients really don't matter if your plant isn't in a big enough container and is not getting enough light so take care of those two things first.

MSU Fertilizer Well Water version (I have hard water). Backed by science, contains all the trace elements you need along with the proper proportions of elements. I'm not burning roots anymore.

I also used JR Peters 20-20-20 primarily because they added in the micronutrients.

I picked up a tip from the MSU fertilizer that I hadn't bothered to look up before. They encourage nitrogen levels at 125ppm during the winter and ~250ppm during the summer. This is where a TDS meter really comes in handy for verifying that you're pouring what you think you're pouring. My water measures in at 250ppm default (considered hard water), so with a full measuring cup using the measuring cup they supplied, my TDS reading came in at exactly 1250ppm (wow).

Using my weakly/weekly math - I can take that gallon container and pour exactly 16 ounces into my fertilizing container (1/4 its capacity), then fill the remainder with tap water and I'm right around 450/475.

The thing to remember and one of the things I'm looking for verification on is is that a TDS meter measures total dissolved salts. The MSU formulation I have contains ~20% nitrogen, so if you wanted to shoot for 250ppm, you'd want the total TDS value around 1250 to get what the vendor considers a full strength application.

Imagine my surprise when I measured my first pour and hit 1250 on the nose. The reason this exercise was important for me was because I poured what I thought was a quarter strength formulation of my JR Peters fertilizer (20-20-20) turned out to be 5x the recommended amount and sure enough I burned the shit out of some seedlings I'm growing right now.

Anyway - tl;dr - regardless of what you get - buy a TDS meter just so you can verify that what your pouring isn't over strength. I thought I was pouring quarter strength formula, I was in fact pouring 5x the recommended amount and plants died slowly as a result.

{edit} - ok so I was right about the calculations and total TDS numbers versus nitrogen %'s...

here's a handy calculator to verify dosages and you want to be in the 125 PPM range for slow feedings.

http://firstrays.com/free-information/feeding-and-watering/measurement-handling-application-of-fertilizers/fertilizer-tds-calculator/

Thanks for your reply!

All of the plants have roots in the water, and some of them have new white growth, but not a ton. About 7 out of my 24. I'm still not seeing new green growth on any of them.

I'm using this nutrient mix, with about 5 cups of the recommended mixture dissolved into my ~30 gallon tank. I'm using PH Up and PH Down from Lowe's. I don't know what acids/bases they are, but they're specifically marketed for hydroponics. I've only had to adjust the PH down, from 7.9 to 6.1.

I actually bought some larger plants that are already blooming and fruiting yesterday, so I was planning on refreshing my water and remixing my solution and then transplanting the more mature plants today or tomorrow, but if the crowns can be salvaged I'd like to save them too.

If you want simple, cheap and portable then DWC is the way to go. My DWC lettuce setup was super cheap to build and can be moved around easily, and I've had several very successful lettuce grows with it. I just bought a $15 container store plastic drawer and drilled some holes in it for net pots, and piped in some air for airstones. I used two of these powered by one of these. Medium is rockwool based in clay pebbles housed in standard plastic net pots.

So tallying it all up...
Container - $30 (could probably have found something much cheaper)

Air pump - $16

Air stones - $6 x 2 = $12 (could also have probably gotten away with smaller/cheaper stones)

Net pots = $6 (for a dozen, so that's 9 sites plus 3 to grow replacement seedlings to swap in)

Clay pebbles = $10

Rockwool = $16 (for a sheet that will last you through many harvests)

Lettuce seeds = $2

Grand total = $86 for absolutely everything needed (assuming you're using sunlight) you need to grow.

There's a few places I noted where you could probably buy cheaper than I did, so You could probably do the whole thing for under $70.

In terms of tools for assembly you will need a dremel or something similar to cut the holes, since the plastic is pretty tough. I suppose you could manage with some very heavy duty shears, but it would probably be a nightmare to cut by hand. And a drill for the air hose holes. Some black spray paint to keep down algae growth in the water supply would be good too.

Can't speak to climate, but leafy greens are pretty hearty and have continued to thrive during a few very high temp days here, so I suspect they'd do fine in Florida temps.

Looks like you've got some cool stuff there, but are lacking primary/base nutes. The GObox is great for soil, but for DWC I would recommend their Flora Series nutes instead, which is also available with a couple other great products bundled in the GH Performance pack

For the most part, I stick to a single line of nutes so I can just follow the feeding schedule. It's not uncommon for growers to substitute a couple products with the rough equivalent from another brand. However, I wouldn't even know where to start with so many different product lines there. I would suggest you read up on those products you have to find their contents and role in the nutrient line so you can use them effectively together.

That sounds like a good plan. If you want to order something from Amazon I would suggest the cactus and succulent mix. That stuff is amazing. I add some more pumice to the mix just for extra drainage Also I really enjoy putting a thin layer of lava rock for the top soil. It gives it that desert look haha. But yeah I'd water it maybe once every 2-3 weeks.
Sorry I got excited haha if you want to get really crazy you can use some cactus juice.


Hoffman 10410 Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix, 10 Quarts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0030UQLIM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Lh0yxbA3HJJVP

Grow More 3130 Cactus Juice 1-7-6, 1-Pound https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZOICVA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ql0yxbHQV5DCA

Cool yo congrats on the soon to be first grow! I'm no expert but I'll toss in my 2 cents.

The tent will support the lights (22 lbs), usually they give you poles for the roof to hang any equipment. You might wanna look into those adjustable carabiner type things for hanging lights and equipment.

I can't tell you how to hook up the filter but I'm sure there are instructions and dozens of YouTube videos. Depending on where you want to vent it to you may need some flex duct, but if the carbon filter is just for the smell you can have it exhaust directly into the room the tent is in, with a passive intake or something.

Good call on running some bag seed first to get experience and test your set up, just remember if you see signs of a male kill it immediately - don't want to polinate your new tent!

You do not need C02, at least not yet. Get through your first harvest and then reevaluate. Adequate air flow will give you plenty of C02.

As for nutes, fox farm soil is well reviewed, and after about 30 days the soil will run out of nutes. You can top it with fertilizer or similar things, or buy liquid nutrients and add them with water. I've been using
General Hydroponics Flora Series Performance Pack https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B008UCCCII/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_w2pMzb74TDKRG and it seems to be working great, easy to follow week by week schedule and everything, and at the rate I'm using it I think it will last for at least a few more grows.

This is a long post... So in summary:

• the tents will support the lights
  
• you'll figure out the fan/filter no problem
  
• dry run the bagseed
  
• no C02 needed
  
• google GH Flora series (performance pack optional)
  
  Lastly, don't helicopter parents the seedlings. Germinate them, chuck them under a couple cfls like 6 inches away, don't over water them, no nutes, and give them time! Most minor problems that may come up in the first couple weeks (like a bit of nute burn from hot soil) will sort themselves out.
  
  Good luck!
  
  
  Edit: the carabiner things VIVOSUN Pair of 1/8" Adjustable Grow Light Reflector Clip Hanger Rope Ratchet with Zinc Alloy Internal Gears 75lb Each https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00P7TZNPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_VfqMzbYWA2VT9

Might be helpful if you post a few pics of your setup.
1: 18-24 inches. make sure you have good airflow over plants to minimize tip burn. Us a small fan if you can.
2: If you are only growing lettuce and harvest fast enough, you should be fine. The distance between plants is more important since lettuce will take up at least 8-10 inches per plant.
3: I have great luck with these rock wool cubes that drop right into 2 inch net pots after they germinate and send roots out (10 days or so) :
http://www.amazon.com/Grodan-A-OK-Starter-Plugs-Sheet/dp/B00168EO48

have fun

the heavy pellets do once they break surface tension, but the flakes disperse nicely. I have to feed the betta in the very corner of the tank behind the outflow tube or else he can’t catch his food.

My little bristle baby is definitely growing up. If he gets too big I would be happy to make that the catalyst to upgrading my tank.

I use this for fertilizer, although I admit I’m probably not using it properly.

Thrive Aquarium Plant Fertilizer - All in One Planted Tank Liquid Fertilizers - Micro & Macro Nutrient Rich Food for Aquatic Plants - Highly Concentrated for 2500 Gallons of Water - Handy Pump Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DSFMNHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RpfsDbAS0T8FQ

Looks like a pretty good start there.

Pots: If just doing one plant I used something like this that filled my case perfectly and just wrapped it in aluminum tape

Soil: Fox Farms Ocean Forest is recommended alot around here and you can buy small bags

Nutrients: There is a plethora of nutrients you can use from GO Box to Botanicare to General Hydroponics and many many many many more. With almost as many methods.

Edit: Also case wise that mid tower is going to be too small, you will definately want to go for a full tower. Something like this

EditEdit: Here is something to power your fans with no DIY

Or Splice this onto you fans

Hello! fish fertilizers like this are super gentle but not balanced (5-1-1). I use this all winter long IF i see my plant has not stopped growing! Usually the Philodendron hederaceum, scindapsus pictus and Epipremnum aureum get a very diluted dose of fish fertilizer or organic balanced fertilizer. Just figure out what works for your plant and speak it's language. If you see it's growing during the winter but leaves are smaller than usual... this might be a sign you plant needs food. happy growing :)

Get some cheap CFLs (compact flourescent lights) from Home Depot so they are getting some sort of light. Get "daylight" (6500k) colored lights if possible. You can also use "Soft White" colored bulbs, though "Daylight" color bulbs are optimal for the first few months of growth. You will need about two 40w(150w incandescent equivalent) CFLs per plant to start. The bulbs shouldn't cost more then $10-$15 each. You can get a bunch of smaller CFLs if you can't find 40w bulbs. Make sure the plant gets at least 18 hours of light a day or it may start trying to make buds too early. You can give it 24 hours of light a day if you want during the beginning. If possible, get some good nutrients like "Fox Farm Soil Nutrient Trio" and feed the plants according to the directions. If your plants show signs of trouble, get a cheap pH test kit and make sure that the pH of the water you use with them is between 6.0-7.0, while trying to keep it at about 6.5-7.0. This will help the plant get the nutrients it needs.

Once the plants are about 60 days old (or older if you want bigger plants), then change the light schedule so that the plants get 12 hours of light and 12 hours of total darkness. This tells the plant to start budding. The plant will stay in this budding/flowering stage for 2-3 or more months. Then it's time to harvest (you can worry about that later).

I personally recommend growing in a soilless medium like coco coir as opposed to soil, because you have less of a chance of getting mold or bugs. If you're interested in growing in coco coir, it's pretty much the same as soil only the pH of the water will be different (5.5-6.3) and you will need to get nutrient made for hydroponics like Fox Farm Hydroponic Nutrient Trio.

Here's a full tutorial if you're interested. Good luck and email me at growweedeasy@gmail.com if you have any questions!

EDIT: One more thing, try to keep the CFL lights so they're 2-4 inches from the plant at all times. You may need to adjust often if the plant is growing a lot. When the plant is still a seedling, you can keep the lights a bit further away for the first week or two or at least until they show their second 'real' set of leaves.

As far as when to water, feed the plant water only when the top inch of the growing medium feels dry to the touch and water well but not until the point of soaking.

That is the wrong way to learn about growing. It's costly and slow. Just watch some YouTube videos and go try. It's how I got started. I knew 0 about growing anything 6 months ago. Now I've got a successful crop and have a single tomato plant with over 20 tomatoes on it and many bell peppers growing, okra, pablano peppers, raddish, lettuce, basil, potatoes, kale and brussel sprouts. I've only spent about $200 too.

Most Helpful links/videos:

Intro to NPK: https://youtu.be/-gtFvhEjA3o

This is a great intro to nutrient deficiencies and effects on plants and how to diagnose: https://youtu.be/9SotrCwqfHo

Cheap Vinyl Downspout grow box: https://youtu.be/bYhwJIarjQ0

Pool noodles instead of rockwool, rocks, or cups: https://youtu.be/rFQiDbkjxY4

Common Veggie EC and pH: http://www.homehydrosystems.com/ph_tds_ppm/ph_vegetables_page.html

Easy to use nutrients:
https://www.amazon.com/MASTERBLEND-4-18-38-Complete-Combo-Fertilizer/dp/B072F2BL9D/

Cheap good EC meter (EC is shown in μs/cm instead of the more common ms/cm, as in above link, so the EC shown should be divided by 1000 to get normal EC numbers; it's easy, just remember when it shows 2300 EC, that's an EC of 2.3, or 700 is 0.7. Also note I've found with all these EC meters you need to dip and then swish them around in the solution and then read it, otherwise it will read inaccurate due to tiny air bubbles on the probes) https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FPG89CE?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Cheap good pH meter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07R4FMYY4?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Easy micro greens, which you use to sprout seeds you want to grow or eat as micro greens:
http://imgur.com/gallery/VARfNoo

ReUse 2 disposable plastic food containers, a cheap poly wicking cloth, and your choice of grow bed (dirt, coco coir, whatever)...

Stack the two containers.

Make 2 long cuts in the bottom of the top container thru the lid of the bottom container, along the 2 longer sides.

Push the cloth thru the 2 slots, such that it's layered across the bottom of the top container and the ends are hanging in the bottom container.

Fill bottom container with water.

Place grow bed material in top container on top of cloth.

The cloth wicks up the water and keeps the grow bed moist. You don't have to water it but maybe once every two weeks and can leave the micro plants there for staging plant growth every couple weeks cause they will grow slow. If you don't use dirt as the grow bed, you will need to replace water with a weak nutrient solution after three or four weeks.

Yeah I just said to another guy about how I’ve been meticulously checking each product I’ve chosen and they all seem to cover the nutrients that base nutes use, except instead of adding some A nute and then some B nute (I found A LOT of a/b ones) I’ll be adding a few extra things per gallon, but I’m convinced now that I do need base nutes too. So I’ve found either advanced nutrients ph perfect sensi A/B or this

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00GOI3ULI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1518058955&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=biobizz&dpPl=1&dpID=51qIqhxEXOL&ref=plSrch

I’ve been hearing good things about biobizz I’m even going to use their soil next time instead of canna (too much wood chip in canna soil

Awesome, thanks! Would the liquid stuff be just as good or is that meant for hydro systems? I’m growing in soil.
I’m looking at this :

https://www.amazon.ca/General-Hydroponics-Florabloom-Floramicro-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=general+hydroponics&qid=1568638526&sprefix=general+hydro&sr=8-3

Would it be more wise to go with the full kit?

https://www.amazon.ca/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Performance-Pack/dp/B008UCCCII/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=general+hydroponics&qid=1568638598&sprefix=general+hydro&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyU1BPMVJBWTdEQTlZJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzI2MDk4MUI3QUpWQUFDRUY5OSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNzYzNjM2MTdGNUpJSllIQlowVCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX3Bob25lX3NlYXJjaF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

> was ignorant and unaware of how to remedy her issues. But now, I'm back with a vengeance.

theres no nutrients in that mix which is fine for the first 2 weeks. have you thought if you want to go bottle vs organic? you might want to add one or all of these later: kelp meal/, kelp extract(trace minerals), oyster shell (calcium/chitin/), neem meal(integrated pest managment and nitrogen, gypsum (sulfur), dr earths organic fertilizer..
PHEW that was a lot of links. If you had to pick two id go with dr earths fertilizer with the liquid kelp and some quality compost preferrably local but this is good in a pinch.

theres bottle organics with biobizz thats not too expensive. they have a starter pack for $25.

by the way if you are having issues with PH you may or may not want to add a teaspoon or two of dolomite lime. this brings PH up to 7.0 as it is alkaline. this is good for PEAT based mixes as peat is acidic at about 5.5-6.0.

Since we all love videos heres one thing to take a look at

if you want to go bottle fox farms trio is popular or you can use pure blend pro grow/ bloom.

I know a lot of people guarantee success with using a rooting powder or gel... I haven't purchased one yet but my coworker is obsessed with this one right now : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Q3NN4W/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

It obviously isn't necessary, but ups the success rate significantly. Good luck!

I 1000% guarantee you if you take a sample and inoculate an agar plate, and incubate, you will observe microbes. You could inoculate your soil further with expensive (but apparently amazing, game changing) mycorrhizal inoculants like Great White or simply by supplementing with compost tea. Worms are beneficial in pretty much any soil situation and even in certain styles of hydroponics.

The miracle grow is fine for spraying your flowers in your yard but other than that I would steer clear of Miracle Grow for hydroponics.

Your plants will require different levels of nutrients (N-P-K) through their life cycle as well as a number of micro-nutrients. I will have to agree that you want to spend about $33 and get the 3 part Flora series from General Hydroponics. Amazon Link Here

Feeding schedule from General Hydroponics Recirculating is Here

Drain to waste is Here

/r/hydro would probably be the best sub to ask this question

To answer your question: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx0uNp2dzAU

But you should also consider buying a premixed nutrient concentrates like this I personally use something like this and the whole set looks like it will last me another year or two.

> Also, how do you know, how much a plant needs from these nutrients? Can you calculate it roughly?

Its mostly trial and error from my experience unless you are growing a very well known crop like tomatoes, peppers or "special herbs". A slightly more accurate method is to get a PPM tester (they are like $10-20 USD here) and refer to this chart

Most people just add nutes to water, adjust the pH of the nutrient solution as needed to get a runoff of around pH 6.5 or so, and then add the solution to the plants as per the two knuckle rule (stick your finger in the soil and if it feels dry at the second knuckle then do a complete watering).

You can store concentrated nutrients however you want just don't store concentrated multi-part nutrients together in the same container. This will cause some of the nutrients to bind up.

Using a syringe, tiny measuring cup, "soap" dispenser, etc does not matter as long as the nutrient solution is the appropriate strength and pHed before adding it to the soil. With the above 3 part GH Flora fertilizers I like a fertilizer strength of 1200ppm/1.9 EC (I use a TDS meter) and a pH of 6.7-6.8 to get a runoff of around 6.5.

Does the above make sense?

edit- slight correction and TDS stands for "total dissolved solids". I use an older version of this meter that has a 650ppm=1 EC correction factor, which can be different depending on the meter, and this to test pH.

If you don’t want to order off amazon I don’t know if you have a petsupplyplus by you but mine match priced chewy.com so I got the kit in store for 21 bucks. Also they say you don’t need lights and fertilizers for java ferns and anubias but trust me you might. So many of them have melted away on me now that I add weekly fertilizer and have a light on i have on from 12-7 my plants see to be growing. fertilizer light
Just incase your interested. Your moss ball will thrive without fertilizer just make sure you pick one that isn’t brown.

None of these are super hots so please don't beat me. I came here for pretty much all my pepper growing advice so I figure I'll "give back" by posting my "crop" so far. I'll post everything including today's update in this post and reply to this for future updates unless you'd rather me go ahead and space it out.

These were started from seeds on April 1st. A mixture of normal "hots"(pablano, jalapeno, cayenne, etc) and sweet peppers. here they are on 4/19/2016 right before I thinned them out to 1 seedling per pod.

On 5/2/2016 I transplanted them to solo cups. I kept them indoors for a bit longer before hardening off but I did it rather quickly due to not being able to get them adequate light indoors.

This was taken on 6/6/2016, which was about 1-2 days before I transplanted them to their forever homes.

Here they are today (7/5/2016) which is just a few days shy of 1 month since transplant. I know the spacing/pot size isn't the best but this is my first year attempting growing more than 1 pepper and I am honestly not looking to grow a huge amount of peppers. The ones in the container are planted in a "square foot gardening" approach with each having a 1ft space. The other ones (I have 5 in total) are in 3 gallon pots. Soil mixture in an approximate "mel's mix" and I currently just switched over to maxibloom as my fertilizer. Currently still cutting off buds as I'd like them to get a bit bigger before allowing them to produce(October is first frost so hopefully still have time).

Again, I'm really new to this so I'm all ears to any suggestions, comments, and advice (outside of the spacing, I know they need more than that lol).

In dirt in my raised beds for peppers and tomatoes I amend the soil with cow manure compost, turkey manure compost & top dress with tomato tone.

In containers I like to grow in ProMix BX and I use General Hydroponics Maxibloom which is a dry, water soluble 1 part complete fertilizer that has all the macro & micro nutrients you need. It grows amazing peppers and tomatoes and doesn't require any additional supplements like cal-mag or epsom salt. From planting out til end of season it's the only thing I use for my peppers & tomatoes.

Plus it's super cheap at $12.49 for a 2.2lb bag on Amazon. If you have ever heard of the Lucas Formula Maxibloom at 7g/gallon of water is spot on.

For seedlings I like to use kelp & fish emulsion until planting out.

If you're at 14 hours on they will not go into flower. There isn't a point to doing 15 minute intervals, you're over complicating it dude. Get on Amazon, buy this. Big bloom is for veg along with grow big. Tiger bloom is swapped with grow big once you start to flower. Use the nutrients at half strength. Veg them at 18 on 6 off until you see happy new growth and your plants are healthy. Do not flower a sick plant.

Edit: Didn't see that you were using the flora series.

nutes is short for nutrients. I bought the Fox Farm Trio. These are good nutes for a beginner like yourself. If it's a bit pricey because of all the other stuff you have to buy, there are cheaper nutrients around, but I highly recommend not skimping out on them. Like I said, get good nutes now and you will be able to use them for other grows in your future.

Combination of parts from Amazon and ebay. Not all of them are necessary, fittings and Brute trashcans and such are from Home Depot.

• 12v, 20A power supply ($17)
  Runs the lights, pump, fans, and other electronics. Kind of excessive. 5A would be enough.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E6S0JS4
  
  
• Check valves, x2 ($10)
  Don't cheap out on these. Crappy plastic check valves really screwed me early on.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KZOCQMA
  
  
• Shutoff valves, x2 ($12)
  Needed for priming the pump or flushing the nutrient reservoir.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018HMFG7O
  
  
• Mylar ($10)
  This was roughly 4x what I actually needed.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B8PAAJW
  
  
• Leca ceramic substrate, 4 pounds ($18)
  Transplanting the sprouts into this was weird, but they took well to it.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004IAM29K
  
  
• Vinyl tubing 25ft ($12)
  Everything I chose was 5/16 inner diameter.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CGVJ9QG
  
  
• Net pots, 5in, X20 ($13)
  Hydroponic pots, specifically for Leca substrate.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N9AE9BE
  
  
• Air bubbler ($13)
  I think that dripping from two feet aerates the water naturally, but this can't hurt.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L17IPEO
  
  
• Warm white LED strip ($11)
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01339F5ZO
  
  
• Cool white LED strip ($11)
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01339G2F6
  
  
• 270W UFO Light ($60)
  Wait for sales on these! The 270W light is $80 now, but I got it for $60.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RWQ4B50
  
  
• Sealing foam ($8)
  To make the door airtight.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011CXIPO6
  
  
• Nutrients ($33)
  This will be enough for a bunch of grows. A little goes a long way.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017H73708
  
  
• pH Control Kit ($18)
  Will also last a long time. Only takes a few drops to balance a gallon.
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BNKWZY
  
  
• Activated carbon filter, 4 inch ($40)
  This thing was bigger than I anticipated.
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E582DV2/
  
  
• Barbed T splitters x10 ($10)
  For making the irrigation loops.
  http://www.ebay.com/itm/302176243137
  
  
• 12v PC fan ($3)
  Loud as heck. Ended up using a quieter fan I had around.
  http://www.ebay.com/itm/272508816366
  
  
• 12v pump ($15)
  Quiet as heck. Rated for 2.1GPM. It's enough, but I think that a 5GPM pump would have been better.
  http://www.ebay.com/itm/272403296601

That stuff needs soil bacteria to decompose it into usable fertilizer and is designed to supplement soil grows. If you need organic, General Hydroponics has a line of nutrients that will work. If you need dry powder and organic, I have no idea.

If you don't need organic, Masterblend's 3-part formula is your best bet as it's super cheap and effective. If you want a 1-part, Maxigrow is good.

Thanks!

Inside this grow-tent, I'm using 2x VIPARSPECTRA 300w LEDs for the lighting. I have a 4 LPM air pump with tubes running into each container (plugged to air stones). This setup is running on a timer from 6AM to 10PM.

The containers are ~10L (a bit more than 2gal) plastic trash bins from Walmart. I found it was the most efficient containers as they are more high than wide (unlike most standard storage containers), which allows me to fit more in the tent. This also enables the roots of the plants to reach deeper which I think is good (but don't quote me on this).

As for the nutrients I use standard General Hydroponics Flora series. I started with small concentration first, then followed the general indications on the bottles (aggressive vegetative growth until they start to flower, then transition to bloom, and then bloom and ripening).

I topped them all at the beginning when they had about 4 or 5 sets of leaves. I also pruned them a few times, cutting big leaves preventing light from reaching the middle of the plant.

Temperature was kept at between 22°C and 28°C most of the time (71F - 82F). Humidity varied between 35% and 55%.

I also have a Raspberry Pi in there to which I connected (and soldered) a humidity and temperature sensor. I then wrote a little app to send the data to a database and wrote another app to display real-time temperature stats and charts. I did this mostly for fun but it was useful.

Yeah, just as what other people have posted, they are doing good only one of them seems to be struggling a little. get them in some bigger pots and add a few nutes and they should pick up, I'm currently doing my first ever grow this season too (outdoor growing in the uk) and they are doing pretty good.

I got a bio buzz trail pack from amazon, it's decent value as I didn't want to buy gallons of the stuff in case my first attempt wasn't successful. The package enough to support three plants I believe.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00GOI3ULI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498382141&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=bio+buzz&dpPl=1&dpID=51qIqhxEXOL&ref=plSrch

If you want to give your propagations a boost in the right direction, I would highly recommend this product - https://www.amazon.com/Garden-Safe-TakeRoot-Rooting-HG-93194/dp/B00AA8WPGY/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=rooting+hormone&qid=1559057164&s=lawn-garden&sr=1-3

It basically takes the guess work of propagating and it essentially allows for you to "tell" the plant what you want it to do with hormones. It basically makes it so that any plant capable of propagating does propagate. And don't let the name "rooting hormone" intimidate you; it's just a simple dry powder chemical that is pretty easy to handle.

Plant in ground or much bigger fabric pot asap. The smaller the pot the faster it'll dry out. Grab a basic nutrient profile like Fox farms trio; Basically a veg and a flower. The tri is nice because of the micro nutes. I've moved on to combining Fox farms Liquids, FF granular, and organic soil amendments myself but the trio is a decent place to start.

https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-Liquid-Nutrient-Trio/dp/B01C0PEBES/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1493212519&sr=8-4&keywords=fox+farm+trio

Good luck.

So the system I plan to have going is similar to the one in this video: https://www.familyplotgarden.com/building-an-inexpensive-aeroponics-system.html

My basement is half finished, my room is about 18ft by 15ft, and the unfinished part, separated by a door, is about 12 ft by 30ft. Both have about 8ft ceilings. I was thinking of putting it in the unfinished room so I don't get bothered by the light or sound of the pump, but I'm not sure yet. This is my first time attempting hydroponics, so I really have no clue about all the technical details. Is there something you would recommend I grow first that would be easy to manage and not mess up? Also when it comes to lights, what is the difference between the red blue ones and the white ones? And how do I know what height to have them at and when to move them?

Thanks again for the help

Edit: General Hydroponics Flora Grow, Bloom, Micro Combo Fertilizer set, 1 Quart (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017H73708/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MOeKBbX75P0WN. Here's the nutrients I got

Haha thanks! I like being here with y’all. You know.. I use a trio mix. That’s really good. I add it to a 2 gallon watering jug per 8x10ft then water on top.

General Hydroponics Flora Grow, Bloom, Micro Combo Fertilizer set, 1 Quart (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017H73708/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3iKmDb0C8V5PK

It should be fairly easy. If you want portability, buy some Smart Pots, they worked much better than the standard plastic pots I was using before. Spend some money on some good nutrients for the N-P-K phases. I used the Fox Farm Trio for my first grow, but I will be moving onto more organic products next year. Make sure to feed them less than what the bottles tell you to. Good soil is very important, I used Roots Organic. Then get some Molasses and feed it about cap full once every couple of weeks while it's vegging, and once a week when it flowers.

One mistake I made on my first grow, was ignoring pesticides. Next year I will be using Azamax once a week when it's vegging. Caterpillars can ruin a good amount of your crop in no time.

I think that's pretty much all you need for a cheap, and low-maintenance grow. Buy some Fiskars trimmers, and a microscope when you think they're ready for harvest.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/plumeria/growing-plumeria-cuttings.htm

They do look hideous and weird when it’s a stem! That does say to wait a week after cutting them but that’s when you are removing them from live plant. Yours have already been off a plant for awhile. I don’t know for sure though. Maybe make a new cut and wait a few days just in case? That also says to use perlite and soil. I did not do that! I just used regular soil. At first mine were a little slow but then they took off! So don’t panic if they haven’t grown in first month or two. They are making roots during this time. Mine Still haven’t flowered but it’s only been a few months. They come in different colors so it will be interesting to see what color you got. If you have time to get rooting hormone that may help too. I’m sure they have it at Home Depot but it’s also on amazon for a few bucks. You may want to remove those leaves that have grown when you cut other end. They do cuttings totally bald so it can put all it’s energy into make roots. It will put out new leaves there when you plant it. And take them out of the water if you haven’t already.

Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone (HG-93194) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AA8WPGY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_duoVBbVQY1TD9

I'd recommend coco for sure, I mix in hydroton and perlite and use the GO box nutes in 5 gal smart pots.

I've done the Lucas formula with maxibloom before and I wouldn't recommend it. Definitely treat yourself to a good line of nutes and you'll see the difference right away. I'm really liking the organic stuff so far, I don't have to pH and my plants have gone crazy after I started adding zyme alive (thanks /u/Biloba414)

So, are you in a pot? How big? Now would probably be a great time to transplant if its in a little pot and is still in veg. It really depends on how big you want to try to get it. Outdoors is different too cause at a certain point its just going to switch over to flower with the light change depending on your latitude.

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If its a 3 gallon or bigger pot and you want like 1-3 ounces you probably dont NEED a transplant. and can just feed it some Calcium+Magnesium (CalMag) and some of the General Hydroponics nutrients

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Bloom-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=33B53J7NBKN8S&keywords=general+hydroponics+nutrients&qid=1562166669&s=gateway&sprefix=general+hy%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

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just give a half dose of whatever the recommended feeding is to start every other watering.

I used this and got fucking amazing results. 3 OZ from a room the same size. I was VERY impressed. I also used Flora ferts. I would highly recommend this light for your exact situation and at $160, you can't beat it.

When I started I had nothing but disasters. Then I went to coco and general organics. Then I got some traction and started having success. Ive since moved on to more intensive stuff. I say Coco choir and get the general organics starter kit.

http://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Box-Starter-Kit/dp/B004PS4B08/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422591266&sr=8-1&keywords=general+organics

http://www.amazon.com/Kempf-Compressed-Growing-Potting-11-Pound/dp/B003MOD2HY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422591247&sr=8-1&keywords=coco+coir

Just follow the instructions, its easy, its cheap, it works, and its pretty dang hard to kill your plants this way.

Edit: I did pull 1.25 pounds on 2 big plants in a scrog with a 600 watt HPS like this in about a 3.5x3.5 foot scrog. It was my second ever grow.

MaxiBloom is the easiest and I believe cheapest bet. Breakdown of cost: 2.2lb=997gms, 7gm per gl=142gl solution. $14.54/142=.10gl. And follow the Lucas Formula. Big Thanks! To MrMajors for pointing it out to me :)

Considering a good grower gets 1g/of LED real watt, you will not meet your expectations of 10-32 ounces with 600$, I am afraid. But have no fear. I am pretty good at budgets and enjoy a challenge so let's see what kind of setup we can generate.

Light - Your biggest and most important expenditure - 250$CADamazon.ca/VIPARSPECTRA-Reflector-Spectrum-Indoor-Function/dp/B01G8GDV32/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3G9VL9397BJLG&keywords=viparspectra&qid=1570768902&sprefix=vipars%2Caps%2C180&sr=8-5

I am an HPS grower that is actively is looking for an LED way out of the cooling I need to provide. I have read amazing things about viparspectra. This light has a real draw of 260W so you will be able to pull a half pound if you dial your environment right.

Pots - Fabric pots are the shit - 20$ CAD

https://www.amazon.ca/s?k=vivosun+5+gallon+fabric+pots&crid=2D5PJJD9PR0B3&sprefix=vivosun+5+gall%2Caps%2C172&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_14

I've grown in clay pots, nursery pots, dwc, rockwool cubes and I always go back to promix. And now I use Smart/Fabric pots. They are the tits of my life, ferreal. The handles help a lot.

Dehumidifier - You said you live in a bay area so i assume its humid af - 70$ CAD

https://www.amazon.ca/hOmeLabs-Small-Dehumidifier-Bathroom-Closet/dp/B072C3NMK1/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3RME7E0CJ86SV&keywords=dehumidifiers&qid=1570769281&s=lawn-garden&sprefix=dehu%2Clawngarden%2C173&sr=1-4

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Nutes - I've used these and have been successful. then again ive used 20-20-20 and been successul - 51$ CAD

https://www.amazon.ca/General-Hydroponics-Florabloom-Floramicro-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=veg+nutrients&qid=1570769329&s=lawn-garden&sr=1-3

PH adjusters - 30$CAD

amazon.ca/Standard-Hydroponics-Nutrients-Fertilizer-Gardening/dp/B07S1DFL3S/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=ph+-&qid=1570769376&s=lawn-garden&sr=1-1

PH Tester - You fucking need this, hanna is a+ - 140$ CAD

https://www.amazon.ca/Hanna-Waterptroof-Pen-98127-pHep4/dp/B000CNKWNK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=13VXDFKB7DUMQ&keywords=hanna+ph+meter&qid=1570769430&s=lawn-garden&sprefix=hanna%2Clawngarden%2C170&sr=1-2

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We are at 561$ CAD so 425 USD

Buy cheap ass dirt or go dig some up. I've used garden dirt successfully indoors but you will have to spend extra money fighting bests. Get bagged dirt.

5 gallon bucket to run your sauce - like 5$CAD - go to a hardware store

Hooks and chain - Max 10$ at a harware store

You still havent answered my question about smell. A carbon filter and inline fan combo will run you up another 200$ CAD

so like 650$ USD.

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Sorry I'm Canadian.

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Organics-Go-Box/dp/B004PS4B08

Just get this. I had shit luck trying to get the GH nutes to not burn the shit out of my outdoor plants. After using the GO box last year, I wouldn't use anything else with outdoor soil.

If you insist on the GH, usually once per week (using the GH feeding schedule from a Google search) and at about quarter strength.

I dont see why you would need to water three times a day unless you are doing a hydro set up, but with a budget like that I would suggest you stick to soil. It will be cheaper and more forgiving if you mess up. If I were you I would go something along this route:

150 watt CFL-60$
Soil- 20$
Nutrients-40$
Fan-15$
pH test strips-13$
Total=150$

All you need after that is some pH up and pH down and an PPM meter and you will be good to go. Less than 200$.

I have the grow box myself and it's done very well in my opinion. It gives the schedule all the way through the veg and flower. You can adjust the dosages to your liking as you begin to notice the habits of the plants you're growing. For instance I just set mine to flower and I'm feeding twice a week instead of once right now; white widow seems to love it.

I would also suggest getting a ph kit. You should be able to see one on the frequently purchased together listing thing on this Amazon page. Just a PH up and down bottle with small test kit dropper thing.

General Hydroponics General Organics Go Box https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004PS4B08/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_ADdbvb050FMDY

Yeah MG has a nasty habit of downvoting things that work but don’t look cool or are cutting edge.

I use maxibloom powder as my main nute. 5-15-14, calmag included. Plus suppliments of course (add N in veg, PK in flower), but I could get by fine with just maxibloom.

I’m pretty sure GH and Scott’s are all the same company.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NXVZQUW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yXzMAb40A1Y7D

This guide is pretty comprehensive

If you want a super quick start, get some nutrients (I recommend General Hydroponics), 2-3" net cups, rock wool, and hydroton/clay pebbles.

Plant seed in rock wool, put rock wool in net cup, fill the remainder with hydroton, place net cup in a container with some water in it (kratky method), and start watering it until the roots touch the water.

I run fluorescent in my veg tent, and a 150W HPS lamp in my flowering tent but overall it affected my electricity bill about the same as an air conditioner or a mini fridge.

If you're interested

2x - Tent $90 each $180 total - http://www.amazon.com/Aviditi-PTU-67-Reflective-Hydroponic-T-Zipper/dp/B004U6WBGG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1396627726&sr=8-7&keywords=grow+tent

1x - Lamp for veg $95 - http://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-FLT24-4-Tube-Commercial-System/dp/B002JQBQZQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1396627792&sr=8-4&keywords=grow+lamp

1x - Lamp for Flower $80 - http://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-SBM150S-150-Watt-Mini-Sunburst/dp/B0055F80H0/ref=sr_1_213?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1396628047&sr=1-213&keywords=hps+grow+lamp

6x 3 gal buckets - $30

4 Bags perlite 1 bag vermiculite - $25

Nutrients - $52 - http://www.amazon.com/FX14050-Fertilizer-Nutrient-Hydro-Formula-32-Ounce/dp/B000HY2IXQ/ref=sr_1_4?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1396628211&sr=1-4&keywords=fox+farms+tri

Misc other stuff - Timers, phing stuff, fans, scissors - $100

Add 6 months to learn how to make it all work properly and you will be chopping heads too!

All told about $550 for a set up that will yield 4-5 oz/2mo. Plus $35 utility per month. Cheaper if you run 1 tent, but then it takes twice as long. So worth it if you have the space. Oz around me range from like $250-$350 so...

this one is decent.
best of luck in your plant adventures!❤️

Some things you can buy:

Full kit, no gel. I personally don't like the light directly on top of the dome. You can't raise/lower if needed.

Hothouse and mat. This is what I use, along with this light.

Rooting gel

Rapid rooter starting pods. I use this, but there are definitely cheaper alternatives out there.

Don't give up!! Read up, do some research, and keep trying to grow. It's a fulfilling hobby, well worth the effort.

I started them in a 3 gallon SmartPot because I knew it would outgrow cells before I could get them outside. It transplanted easy along a fence. I fed them with an organic fertilizer (this one).

The soil was great. It was fresh soil in a spot that was never planted in before. Although a pine tree was near it. Could that have done it? It got sun around 12pm onward.

Nah. Get some real hydroponics nutrients. Miracle grow is a soil additive.

I highly recommend Maxigrow by General Hydroponics.

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-MaxiGro-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B00NQANQAC/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=maxigrow&qid=1562171512&s=gateway&sr=8-3

That will allow the plant to grow like crazy in its vegetative stage. Then when you start to get flowers you can either stay with Maxigrow or change to Maxibloom (same company). Follow the instruction on the package for feeding.

Also, you might want to consider a larger bucket for your DWC your plants are going to be fighting for sunlight that crowded up, and some air stones/air pump to prevent root rot later in the plants life. The air agitation will also help mix any nutrients in your water and dissolves oxygen into the water.

Here are my plants which were started in April. now Over 7 feet tall. https://imgur.com/L67V26s

Also doing cucumbers which are already producing. https://imgur.com/Gox2PMF

Edited for some clarity on a few things

I've used both fabric and plastic. In my experience, everything grows much easier in fabric. The pots you linked look fine. You can wash them in the washing machine and re-use them if your wife will let you, lol. I like these pot risers with these saucers. You can remove the run-off with a bucket head.

Most folks go with bottled nutes. There's lots of different brands I use fox farm trio. You only have to buy 3 bottles but for $33 all together it's a pretty good deal.

Here's a link to the 3pack


https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01C0PEBES/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1484020161&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=fox+farm+trio&dpPl=1&dpID=51d0Bx89s2L&ref=plSrch

well they don't look dead yet so that's good

have you seen any bugs hopping around or under the leaves?

what soilmix are you using?

My guess would be calcium deficiency or calcium absorption issue since you aren't providing it in either of the ferts you stated. get some lime or calmag see if that helps.

if you are aware of overwatering i assume you aren't doing it. letting the soil dry out some before watering. like only once or twice a week?

I use CloneX and TakeRoot. But I think they work better if using more than just water. If you absolutely need something to clone, I'd try these. If it's just an experiment, then water is fine and will probably do the trick.

Tomatoes clone super easy in water. Had one shoot out roots in 2 days.

definitely not the "best" but you can achieve great results with it, that said where are you seeing $100 for the trio? You can get enough for a whole run of 2-4 plants with this for $40ish

Thanks man!

Here's the fan controller I got:
www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811999167

LEDs:
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0051HOCJC/ref=aw_d_img_back_lawn-garden?qid=1368412883&sr=8-1

1 Gallon Grow Bag:
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0076PPSTK/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?qid=1368413173&sr=8-5&pi=SL75

Window sun reflector:
Any one will do.

Temp/humidity monitor:
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0013BKDO8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1368413563&sr=8-1&pi=SL75

Fox Farm Nutrients (not cheap, but last a long time!): www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000HY2IXQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1368413626&sr=8-3&pi=SL75

Fox Farm Soil (also lasts a long time, apparently any soil will do... Not sure why I bought this soil): www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001I49Q98/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1368413705&sr=8-2&pi=SL75

Hope this help!

I'm concerned I might actually be under-watering, I've been just splashing a bit of water in the container. Last night I went down and they were bone dry, so I gave them a good soaking, hoping that maybe I'm just under watering. We'll see on that front. Here's the rundown on what I've been doing.
- Growing Medium - Soil - Roots Organic

- Nutrients - Bio Thrive 5ml/gallon - General Organics Grow Box -

- LED light - VIPARSPECTRA ULTRA

I've got this PH Tester and have been keeping my PH between 6&7.

If you're looking for an all-in-one you could try thrive ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DSFMNHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_msZKAbZFNB04F is the option for low tech tanks). It was recommended to me but I can't give a strong endorsement as I've just started using it.

All-in-ones are convenient for very small tanks because measuring small amounts is a pain, and doing water changes to prevent imbalanced fertilizers from creeping up is easy. It gets pretty expensive for bigger tanks tho, and the convenience factor is less there, so a lot of people use dry fertilizers. You can get dry Potassium Nitrate and Monopotassium Phosphate from this site on the /r/plantedtank subreddit sidebar: http://www.aquariumfertilizer.com/ to cover your macros then use a mix like "seachem's Flourish" for your micros.

If you're using very soft/ro/di water you should also get a remineralizer like seachem's "Equilibrium" product.

Also do not expect to propagate any leaves you got from these plants. It may happen, but it is unlikely. I have tried many times to propagate leave from unhealthy plants, but they never work.

Once the plants get established again, and especially if you supplement them with some cactus food like this, then you can start trying to propagate their strong healthy leaves. But be patient for now. No supplements or water yet. Just let them sit for a while, either out or in dry soil. It takes time, but it is very rewarding to have a little friend that you brought back from the brink of death.

It sounds like you should look into using the GO Box for nutes. I am coming up on the harvest of my first grow and I used the FF full line this time around with what looks to be great success. I got the hang of adjusting the pH pretty quickly, but the GO Box claims absolutely no pH adjusting is necessary. If you want something that is more or less just add nutes to water >>> shake well >>> water plants then I would check out the nutes I linked.

1. pH for soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0; and hydroponic 5.5 - 6.5
   
2. Check out the GrowWeedEasy page on nutrients. I started my grow recently, and bought the General Hydroponics Performance Pack from my local hydroponics store.
   
3. The bottles will work for a while, but size will be an issue later. Make sure to poke some holes on the bottom for drainage.
   
   Hope this helps. I started my grow recently, so get another opinion on this haha.

Yeah, Maxibloom is 100% complete and can be used in hydro, soilless or even soil (although I never use it in actual soil). At 1/2tsp to 1tsp per gallon a 1kg bag goes a LONG way. Growing like 14 plants in 5 to 20 gallon pots I went through just a little over 1 bag in a season from April til late August. Best thing ever IMO, peppers and tomatoes love it. Makes growing in inert soilless mix a snap.

It's pretty cheap too, $14.50 for a 1kg bag on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-MaxiBloom-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B00NXVZQUW

I can't find any good pics of my tomatos but this is an Aji Lemon Drop pepper in a 20 gal pot of promix + perlite that was fed nothing but maxibloom its whole life: http://i.imgur.com/GdmaZj6.jpg

calmag is pretty universal from my understanding so shouldn't be a big deal. You'll use so very little even if you feed everyday. It should last you a few grow cycles.


here is GH cal mag pretty cheap I'm also in canada https://www.amazon.ca/General-Hydroponics-GH1772-CALiMAGic-Quart/dp/B00GZRKI40/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1543512680&sr=8-2-fkmr0&keywords=gh+calmag


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I like these. Think they’re the greatest and will last a lifetime.

They come in different sizes, I use em for 7 gallon.

https://www.amazon.ca/Gro-Pro-725675-Level-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=pot+elevator&qid=1563129869&s=gateway&sprefix=pot+elevator&sr=8-1

Make sure you feed her some calcium/magnesium if you're growing in coco. Have fun!

Your plant looks pretty healthy. I have quite a few plants in that same gritty mix too. I use a dilute fertilizer mix every time I water. I generally use a low nitrogen formula (I'm currently using this: https://www.amazon.com/Grow-More-3130-Cactus-Juice/dp/B000ZOICVA/ref=asc_df_B000ZOICVA/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=216532910363&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1307938155492607337&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1019672&hvtargid=pla-349028008220&psc=1) and most of my plants really like it.

I set my water out to dechlorinate at least a day if I can't get rain water or air-conditioning condensate and use Garden Safe brand Take Root rooting hormone. I put about what fits on the end of a key in enough water to cover the bottom 1-3 inches of the stems.
Here is the Amazon link.. .
Garden Safe Rooting Hormone (93194), Case Pack of 1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AA8WPGY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_qphQDbJCSHRXP

As others have said, it's a hydrangea. Buy something similar to this and you can turn that into probably 4-5 plants!

Fun fact: You can add aluminum sulfate and use a 25/5/30 fertilizer yearly to make those flowers become a more blueish color. If you want them to be more pink, add dolomitic lime to the soil and use a 25/10/10 fertilizer. (This works, but it's much more effective when the plant is potted. Typically the closer a hydrangea is planted to concrete, the more pink in color it gets because lime leaches out of the concrete and lowers the pH)

Second the GLA ferts. I use their dry ferts and mix my own liquids. Also look at NILOCG thrive as well.

https://www.amazon.com/EXTREMELY-FERTILIZER-Fertilizer-Concentrated-Demanding/dp/B01DSFMNHQ

Some compost, worm castings, manure or composted manure added to the soil when transplanting outdoors will help feed the plants.

You can also add amendments like bone meal, blood meal, kelp meal.

For outdoor fertilizer I've used jack's classic, works well and has been around forever.

veg https://www.amazon.com/Peters-Classic-20-20-20-Purpose-Fertilizer/dp/B005LKNCZY

flower https://www.amazon.com/Jacks-Classic-10-30-20-Blossom-Booster/dp/B009YOIABY/

LIST POST:

 |/u/Dent7777|Shady Angel Investor|Total|Strictly Necessary Costs

--|:--|:--|:--|:--
 |318.366|212.244|530.61|385.44
 |Item|Price|Link|
possible to replace or modify|32G Wheeled Trash Can|20|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B071CZ4BWD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
fabric bags also work|Air-Pruning Pot|13.98|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BFISHS2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Mylar Blankets|6.69|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GLCYR5S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Velcro tape|16.49|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OXK330/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Plant Ties|7.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B071CZ4BWD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Happy Frog Soil|11.95|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01508YKY8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |FoxFarm Trio|33.95|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D93NIFY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Fem Blue Dream Seed|23.68|https://www.seedsupreme.com/blue-dream-feminized-seeds-20604.html|
 |2 Free Fem Seeds|0| | 
 |pH control & testing kit|18.5|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BNKWZY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05__o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
not strictly necessary (NSN)|Submersible pump|7.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EWENKXO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|2Liter bladder|12.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B075RWCXWZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Clear Tubing|7.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00W6W10TK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|tubing switch|7.95|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L45TLPK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Funnel|10.96|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OKXZL8O/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Humidity & Temp Sensor|12.82|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013BKDO8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Rechargeable AAs|13.8|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JHKSN76/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Inline Fan|17.95|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CQBFOTS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Carbon filter|33.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CJ5D4AG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Ducting hose|10.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B076S6KHB4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |ArcMyn Vent|14.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0793HH4GD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |Axial Fan|11.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B009OWRMZ6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Fan Speed controller|17.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B6VV6GL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
 |HGL 100w|149|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C59J8L2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
NSN|Smart Power Strip|32.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C1ZSCYV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|
may keep for lights, might get rid of it.|Light Timer|12.99|https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MVF16JG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1|

I think at the beginning of April I'll be buying a bottle of this stuff to try out in my 10 gallon with some shrimp. I figure if the shrimp survive then it should be just fine for fish.

And totally unrelated but I haven't forgotten about the drift wood thing, but the reality is that it seems all the good drift wood is out in the inlets, so I have to wait until my wife and I get a pair of kayaks (which is actually going to be fairly soon, I hope!)

EDIT: I picked up research just now and found the product MSDS and it contains indolebutyric acid, which is listed as an agricultural chemical and pesticide, so my hopes have been dashed for this product. I'm going to confirm that this is dangerous and will advise as new information becomes available!

If you're going to use a different nutrient make sure it's made hydroponic systems, as outdoor fertilizers intended for soil don't typically have the same nutrients or the same ratios. I would also suggest using an ec and ph meter.

I use Fox Farms range of nutrients. The one aerogarden supplies is well balanced though and designed for ease of use.

If you want to try growing grass again.

Get this

Great White PRPSGW04 100049823 4 oz Mycorrhizae, 4 Ounce, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU8JKR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dpeECb3TRFB1F

Tear up the dirt and mix that shit in and keep the ground moist. Enjoy ☺️

Edit: or this

Vermicrop VCFIRE VermiFire Nutrient Rich Potting Soil, 1.5cf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00823B1LE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LqeECbM0Y4PJD

Powder, namely the MasterBlend 4-18-38 fertilizer. With it I have successfully started and fruited 3 variety of Peppers, Cucumbers, Basil, Strawberries, and Tomatoes. Although the tomatoes haven't fruited yet. They have all been alive for ~3 months and are all 1 foot tall.

I was given an Aerogarden by my neighbor and when I went to add the provided nutrient package I realized that the salt had crystallized inside.

I have a small hydroponics setup besides the Aerogarden and use General Hydroponics nutrients in it. As soon I saw the crystallized salt I threw out the packs and used the nutrients I had for my other set up, and it has been doing good enough more me!

http://imgur.com/84YD9BU

I attached a link to the starter pack I bought. It has instructions on the bottles on how much to use of each product depending on the growth phase it's in.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B008UCCCII?pc_redir=T1

Hey thanks for the reply! I do have a similar setup where the pH did not drop as drastically. The difference in this setup was that I was using a much weaker 5000k light, and there were only 5 basil plants in the tower vs the 10 I currently have. The prior setup also only had a 5 gallon (19 litre) tank where as the current setup has 10 gallons (37 litre). I can create a graph of the pH and EC of the prior setup and post it here if you'd like?

Edit: This is the nutrient brand I used in both setups. https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-MaxiGro-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B00NQANQAC/ref=sr_1_3_acs_ac_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539889673&sr=8-3-acs&keywords=hydroponics+nutrients Maxi-Grow by General Hydroponics. Followed the directions of 1 small tsp per gallon.

I would be inclined to remove the rocks then. Just use a flat blade screwdriver or similar and carefully pry them apart.

You don’t HAVE to fertilize, but if you want to I’m told Cactus Juice is good.

not the same person, but I'm a new grower too and have been reading up a lot on how to care for my clones I've had for about 2 weeks now.

here are some links to often-mentioned nutrient systems:

general hydroponics: https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Bloom-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=sr_1_2?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1479708442&sr=1-2&keywords=general+hydroponics

fox farms: https://www.amazon.com/FX14050-Fertilizer-Nutrient-Hydro-Formula-32-Ounce/dp/B000HY2IXQ

canna: https://www.amazon.com/Canna-CA1260-CA1270-Coco-Set/dp/B000G24ZIU/ref=sr_1_4?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1479708468&sr=1-4&keywords=canna

I'd highly suggest following the K.I.S.S (Keep it simple stoner, err stupid lol) lucas formula way of growing. All this means is giving the plant everything it needs in a single step formula, the general rule being giving it more fertilizer past this wouldn't increase your results because the plant simply can't make use of it past what you already gave it.

What I use to achieve this is General Hydroponics MaxiBloom, you can pickup a 2.2lb bag for less than $13 on amazon. You only need 0.75-1 teaspoon per gallon of water (depending on the rate of which each individual plant requires its nutes), 1 bag easily lasts me 2-3 grows and I'm using close to 300+ gallons of water per grow.

You don't need any other nutrient in veg, this is it (well, besides silicia for thickness & seaweed after transplants to hasten recovery/help prevent shock). Yes it's a bloom nutrient but the nitrogen levels are more than sufficient for veg, the maxigro line for example would only result in more elongated/lanky plants without increased light/Co2.

To dissolve the mixture is simple, I fill my sink with warm water, fill a mason jar half way with water and add my 1 teaspoon in. I let the mason jar sit in the warm water shaking the jar periodically until it's completely dissolved. Add it to the gallon and you're ready to feed!

Please don't be dissuaded by my lengthy explanation, it's rather easy as hell! Liquid nutrients are a waste when it comes to veg nutes imo, you're mostly paying for water.

Tahitian Bridal Veil

Gibasis geniculata or Gibasis pellucida

Not much on Wikipedia except for the genus. Googling "Tahitian Bridal Veil" has some helpful information.

Edit: Since it's pretty sad looking, rooting hormone may help.

Don’t forget to get Cal-Mag too! You’ll need this with coco. Here’s the nutrient schedule he was talking about. Good luck!

I just transferred some Bell peppers into my system today. Below is the solution I used. Used about 5ml per gallon to get my water around 1400 ppm as I read somewhere they should in the 1400 to 1700 range. I'm just getting into hydroponics myself, and haven't tried peppers before so I've got no idea if this works or not. I did use this for some kale and lettuce and it worked very well (which I understand is totally different). Fingers crossed that I didn't just murder my sprouts. Would be curious to see if anyone else uses this or not.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017H73708/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ZH46Bb4MN2NJW

She sick, not sure what she needs.
Also, I don't have $ to buy shit to fix it so she probably going to die :'(
She was doing well up to the last two watering, the first one I saw a little discoloration and then I didn't gave her any nutrients and molasses and just PH'd water at 6.5 but she became worst... the discoloration worsened ..

If I buy those two or three products will she survive ?
Cal-mag but from another brand and some blooming nutrient ?
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00GZRKI40/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A1XUOM4FC8JNBK&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BYG6TIG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1J77SE4LW6ZXQ&coliid=I6RRMFYCDMZMV&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BYG6P0I/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1J77SE4LW6ZXQ&coliid=I1AU019W83GWHZ&psc=1

If anyone feels generous : https://www.amazon.ca/gp/registry/wishlist/1J77SE4LW6ZXQ/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_2

• Strain : Northern Light
  
• Vegetation State : 80
  
• Flowering State : 14 Days
  
• Earth : Pro-Mix ORGANIC VEGETABLE & HERB MIX Mycoactive Compost + Cow Manure
  
• Light : Mars Hydro 300W LED Grow Light (135W±10% True Watt)
  
• Tent : Mars Hydro 27"x27"x63" Grow Tent
  
• Pot : 4 1/2 Gal with a over watering reservoir build in the bottom
  
• Nutrient : Miracle Grow + Molasses
  
• Timing : 18/6 Veg now in 12/12 Flowering
  
• Temp & Humidity : 30° to 34° & 15% to 20%
  
• Technique used : Lollipopping, LST, Topped, SCROG

You can leave them in that pot longer if you would like. just becareful of them growing to much out the bottom of the pot, you can damage the plant when you transplant. if you dont want to go as big as a 1 gal, you can keep it in a 6 inch, doubling the pot size and it will do fine. When planted in the ground they can grow up to 3 feet!

if you plan on keeping it in a pot, than fertilizing it once a month is fine. here is some good stuff to use.

You can just buy a Gobox on amazon. This will have everything you need to have a successful grow.

I plan to grow larger variant tomatoes such as beefsteak and want to make sure this kind of layout and these components will be good enough for that purpose.

Here is the list of components I'm planning to use:

1. Buckets https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DPJ4896
   
2. Lids https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072C3G5CJ
   
3. Hydroton https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KYYZ9DE
   
4. Nutrients https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017H73708
   
5. pH Control https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BNKWZY
   
6. pH/TDS Tester https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XKMH86J
   
7. Water Pump https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E9IO9BY
   
8. Water tubing https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004DL0Y9O
   
9. Air Pump https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009YF4FI
   
10. Air Stone https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M9DL67H
    
11. Air Line https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002563MW
    
12. Growlight (Already own) Galaxyhydro 300w LED Grow Light Full Spectrum
    
    ​
    
    The remaining plumbing components I need I'll pick up from my local Home Depot.

Working great for me:

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-MaxiGro-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B01N1TQZ21/ref=sr_1_4?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1484365456&sr=1-4&keywords=general+hydroponics+maxigro

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-MaxiBloom-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B00NXVZQUW/ref=sr_1_3?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1484365487&sr=1-3&keywords=general+hydroponics+maxigro

Yup. Using the General Organics GO box - it has a bit of everything in it. I'm following the schedule on the back of the box but keeping everything at half strength. I'm watering every 3-4 days, with nutes every time.

General Hydroponics GH5100 General Organics Go Box https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B004PS4B08/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_m342AbH10EK67

This website has all the info you're going to need for your jade plant.


You can start a new plant from each one of those leaves if you wanted to. To do that, I would cut off a leaf at its base, apply a root starter, and then plant it in a succulent mix soil. A little plant should pop up within two weeks. However, if you're already seeing new growth just plant that Larry into some soil like /u/dirtyhippielady said.

Jade plants are absolute tanks so I have little doubt she'll survive. Always err on the side of too little water when it comes to Jades though, they don't need much. If you're worried about drainage I would recommend a smart pot. Cheers🍻

the 3 part set up. amazon link below. I have two 5gal bucket set up. About to replant bc i did not have goo luck with the lettuce and spinach. But the herbs i have (Cilantro and Basil) are doing great. Im going to try adding mint, thyme, rosemary, and probably sage.

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Bloom-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=sr_1_1?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1485849552&sr=1-1&keywords=general+hydroponics

I use this and they seem to love it. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZOICVA/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_..miDbBQ8HW59

I love the fox farm trio nute line Fox Farm Liquid Nutrient Trio Soil Formula - Big Bloom, Grow Big, Tiger Bloom Pint Size (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D93NIFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mK8VDb4KPDYD8

MASTERBLEND 4-18-38 Complete Combo Kit Fertilizer Bulk (2.5 Pound Kit) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072F2BL9D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_E.PsDbVXZ6GS2

For when your tomatoes get bigger. Nightshades love this stuff. It's the dry ingredients so you get a ton of it and just mix a few grams at a time with water. It'll last you a while.

NilocG Aquatics has an all-in-one liquid fertilizer (available on Amazon as well as their website). I know that as a beginner, this has made my life easier because I can focus on other aspects of the planted tank. Someday I'll switch to dry ferts!

For Nutes I was going to try General Hydroponics, idk if you've tried but some people swear by it on this sub

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Bloom-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=floragro&qid=1550940780&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1


So if I mix grow and bloom into outdoor soil it would give enough nutes to feed the plant? Do you think if I did take this route it would be wise to monitor pH?

I’m still learning, this is just my experience. cactus juice I really want to find a different feed or fertilizer before the next actual feed. I’m going to start doing some reading here before the weekend, if anyone has suggestions feel free to suggest!

Thanks for the information! That is really helpful.

I'm currently using the GH Advanced Nutrient System - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017H73708/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I was using the GH Go Box nutes, but I switched to the ANS recently. I still have the stuff on-hand, tho. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004PS4B08/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also ordered some GH Floralicious for this grow, but I have not used it yet.

Gotta add it in the soil.

Great White Mycorrhizae, 4 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU8JKR6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_FarWzb0F08WWH

Real Growers Recharge (8oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J1CAEIG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_8arWzbSGAZKV3

Great for getting your pots out of the puddles.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B01J37FHF8?ref=ppx_pt2_mob_b_prod_image

I ordered this combo of dry ingredients per Jeb's approach on youtube. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072F2BL9D/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So far it's worked great for everything I've tried. It'll last me a looooooooong time too. Saves you shipping cost for all the water weight of the other stuff I would think.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5zdi4KM3ewwfYMNo_KnU0A

Honestly, you can do much better for your money... There are kits in the Starter Shopping Lists to the right on the sidebar.

I was wondering the other day what exactly I would need for a turn-key grow setup, and put the following together. Mind you, this is not TOP of the line shit, but it will absolutely get you into the hobby!

600W Tube / Timer / MH & HPS Bulbs / Hangars / Ballast - $157.50

6 Inch Carbon Filter / 440CFM Fan - $149.75

25 Ft. 6 Inch Ducting - $19.10

48 x 48 x 78 Tent - $139.99

FFOF - $18.99

General Hydroponics Go Box Starter Kit - $35.95

CALIBER IV DIGITAL HYGROMETER - $19.23

Smart Pot Container - Pack of Five - $20.65

Micro-Tip Pruning Snip - $10.19

Light Duty Soft Wire Tie - $7.84

PH & Temperature Meter - $79.95

Water Quality TDS Tester - $15.59

LED Handheld Microscope - $16.81

Total just under 700$ and you are getting a LOT more for your money.

Don't blindly take that list, shop around, deal hunt, and do the research! There are many hidden costs associated with growing ><

Also consider SMG bought General Hydroponics. I agree Miracle Grow is shit for MJ but everyone knows that.

Does General Hydroponics make good fertilizer/nutrients for MJ?

I think SMG's aim is to give your average MJ home grower a "one stop shop" experience at Home Depot or Lowe's. Or Amazon shoppers too.

[https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Organics-Go-Box/dp/B004PS4B08]

I use Perlite in two gallon buckets, and these nutrients: General Hydropnics, CalMag both ordered from Amazon.


SImple setup, check out my post here: My setup.. I have most of the details of the setup in the thread.

Water with nutrients is pumped into the buckets 4 times a day, and it all drains right back to reservoir.

I have mine set up outisde, but i've had to put a tarp over the reservoir as it's been raining a fair bit lately.

No nutes right now. Have the FF bottles, ready to go. Have not fed them - was advised highly against doing that until transplanted. pH 6.4 when checked yesterday. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00D93NIFY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Mieemclux-Reflector-Triple-Chips-Spectrum-Available/dp/B07SNP22XS/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=led+grow+light&qid=1565576938&s=gateway&sr=8-3

​

https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Observation-Window-Growing/dp/B01DXYMQ9M/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=grow+tent&qid=1565576981&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUE1NE9VWlZWRU5XRDEmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA5Mzg4NjExVFFNUjlER1NVSTlDJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA3MjU0NTQzRFE0RVE3WjdOUjdBJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

https://www.amazon.com/Lilly-Miller-100099247-Quart-Fertilizer/dp/B000BX4QGK/ref=sr_1_3?crid=WQYMXKQ4RC54&keywords=alaska+fish+fertilizer&qid=1565577089&s=gateway&sprefix=alaska+fish+f%2Caps%2C235&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/PH-Meter-Automatic-Calibration-Accuracy/dp/B07NYZBYD3/ref=sr_1_11_sspa?keywords=ph+pen&qid=1565577113&s=gateway&sr=8-11-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEySTVLNEg3S0dWVE5FJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDg2MzQ2MkI3SDdRUEoySjFFRSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTY4Njk3Mkg0MERVWUxEVlg3WiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroponic-pH-Down-Control-Kit/dp/B00TYW6Q58/ref=sr_1_18?keywords=ph+up&qid=1565577139&s=gateway&sr=8-18

that will do what youre looking for. Make sure if you use that fertilizer that you ph your water after you use it because it will tank you PH down to about 4. If someone tells you you have to spend more than $400 to get started they are wrong. You do not need to spend that much. You can ... but you dont have to.

​

miricle gro performance organics is like twelve bucks a bag at lowes and is OMRI certified

This link might help you more than I ever could. Also the top comment is probably right get yourself some cal mag.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GZRKI40/ref=pd_aw_sbs_86_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=30FM9SYKFJRWR6M44R1R&dpPl=1&dpID=81OFaANMmsL

Growboss
https://youtu.be/9ycNHK97-dg

I really like this stuff:https://www.amazon.ca/General-Hydroponics-MaxiGro-Gardening-2-2-Pound/dp/B00NQANQAC

For whatever reason my local "gardening" store sells it for much cheaper than amazon, I've had stellar results with not just weed.

A little goes a long way with this stuff even at 30 bucks you'll have fertilizer for years.

I really like these:

https://www.amazon.com/Gro-Pro-Level-Pot-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8

They're cheaper other places than amazon.

these?

General Hydroponics MaxiBloom for Gardening, 2.2-Pound https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NXVZQUW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UfwEybVRY0PTH

General Hydroponics Liquid Kool Bloom Fertilizers, 1-Quart https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002DV8TBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_PgwEybNG19KZF

how long will each of these last me? what's the better bang for buck?

Light: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Kingbrite-3500K-Samsung-lm301b-Quantum-Board_60804816911.html

Tent: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JN8REQC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Output fan, and filter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CHC2Z1N/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

In tent fans. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NFCFSXM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pots; (This type, in various sizes) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017DLUTPE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Soil ( mix with 30% perlite) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VPXSQZT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Nutes: https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Farm-Liquid-Nutrient-Formula/dp/B00D93NIFY/ref=sr_1_4?crid=267417O1521J2&keywords=fox+farm+nutrients&qid=1570153787&s=lawn-garden&sprefix=fox+f%2Clawngarden%2C188&sr=1-4

Maxibloom flower is all you'll need for basic growing. 7+ grams per gallon (for the explanation on the method) and you can get it here. I just did this for a tent in a soil grow and it worked pretty well. You might have to dial the amount depending on your strain and plant size but once you find it, you won't need 5 different additives to mix.

You'd have to check about the organic, but something like this
https://www.amazon.com/Great-White-Mycorrhizae-4-oz/dp/B00AU8JKR6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495862193&sr=8-2&keywords=great+white

Hey quick question about using coco coir. From what I'm reading using coco coir is considered hydro...but I've also seen people blending coco coir with soil. When using coco coir blended with soil do you have to use nutes like these or are you okay not using those nutes at all and just whatever nutrients are in the soil? I'm reading about NPK and it's not very clear exactly how I achieve those ratios if i'm mixing my own soil and coco coir.

not sure if it counts as DIY, but i've been using the General Hydroponics nutrients with no issues. It does mean that you will need to adjust the pH after you mix the nutrients. You dont have to do this with the miracle grow nutrients.

Doesn't seem far enough along to make fertilizing it a bad idea. Definitely needs nitrogen, as that deficiency starts at the bottom like that.

I like Fox Farms liquid fertilizer, it's organic and fast acting. https://www.amazon.com/FX14050-Fertilizer-Nutrient-Hydro-Formula-32-Ounce/dp/B000HY2IXQ

This was actually an indoor soil grow using a spacebucket type setup (you can see an album with pics of the bucket here if you're curious). I used the pretty standard issue fox farm trio as nutrients, watered with pHed tap water, and the soil was miracle grow nature's care.

I use the General Organics GoBox at 1/2 strength and adjust if symptoms arise.

Flora fertilizers are pretty good/cheap.

https://www.amazon.com/General-Hydroponics-Flora-Bloom-Fertilizer/dp/B017H73708

Thanks /u/PriceZombie.

Here's the hydro formula!

Hmm, i'm not sure about the tablets, but I know there is a liquid form made for plants you can buy like this stuff.

Not too sure yet,i was thinking of getting this stuff? https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00GZRKI40?pf_rd_p=46535598-d2e0-4bc4-8392-182d8c1e93fc&pf_rd_r=XJGKD3YKE5GMFD90T0MF
then i read that I could add epsom salt to the water (1tbsp per 5 liters) and that would help with magnesium. Still not sure what to use for calcium. Or if i should just purchase calmag on amazon

Is that a soil pot in the middle of the grow bed? I'm no expert, but I feel like that could cause you a lot of problems, especially if it has nutrients already in it. Also, doesn't the soil get too wet? You might want to consider germinating your seeds using the paper towel method, and then transferring them to a soil-less option such as rockwool. Then you wouldn't have to worry about cleaning the peat off.

Here's a link for rockwool off of amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Grodan-A-OK-Starter-Plug-Sheet/dp/B00168EO48/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395508987&sr=8-1&keywords=rockwool

please get some real pH up and down from the hydrostore and pH strips, drops or a meter to get an accurate measure. you dont need to use distilled water if you dont have hard water from your taps. whats your light cycle?

General hydroponics pH up+down w/ drops

https://www.reddit.com/r/microgrowery/wiki/faq

General Hydroponics 3 part