(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best plant growing light fixtures

I started describing myself in the "Meet your /r/GrowTents mods!" post (quoted below), so I'll build off that :)

> After moving to a legal state in the Summer/Fall of 2015, /u/Ser_NSFW started growing indoors using SpaceBuckets and enjoyed it so much that grow tents were the next logical step. /u/Ser_NSFW has picked up a ton of helpful information and is usually willing to help out individuals via PM with any marijuana/growing related questions. /u/Ser_NSFW created this sub after finding no other grow tent related subreddits.

I'm low-key and usually good-natured, spending most of my days at home/school and hanging out with roomies. I'm a computer science student and recently applied at a local garden supply store to learn more about gardening and available products, as well as to help others figure out what gear will work best for them, so I'm excited to start working in my new home state! I've made a few casual acquaintances but no real friends yet (apart from roomies, I mean), so my time mostly goes to maintaining my plants and doing productive stuff like cooking pot roasts and batches of chili, or knitting. I play the drums and enjoy the outdoors, and trivia is always a riot after a couple beers :)

I really like the idea of growing all-natural marijuana - that is, healthy soil and plain water, with as little extra nutes as possible - so I'm excited for warmer temps that allow outdoor growing! In the meantime, I'm getting an Apollo grow tent (36"x20"x62") and an LEC light with my tax return. You read that right, "LEC" (Light Emitting Ceramic), apparently it's a new light technology that's equally or more powerful than equivalent HPS lights and generates relatively low amounts of heat, reducing or outright eliminating the need for extra vent fans! I'm excited to give it a shot, since my 132W LED panels have proven to be a tad underpowered when used alone. If all goes well, I'll have a 315W LEC light and two 132W LED lights in a single grow tent, if possible!

I've started using a locally-made soil and nutrient line called Nectar For The Gods that has proven extremely worthwhile, it blows Fox Farms out of the water from what I've seen so far. No major pH issues, no nutrient lockouts/deficiencies (except a tiny bit of what appears to be Magnesium deficiency, which I've been countering with regular nutrients successfully), overall I'm very happy after making the switch. I forgot to mention that while a 12 qt bag of Happy Frog soil costs ~$14 on Amazon, I can get a larger bag (maybe 20 qts, not sure) of Nectar For The Gods soil for the same price, maybe a dollar cheaper!

I'm looking forward to becoming a true grow tent user, and I'm eager to learn and share as much info as I can with the rest of you fine folks!

I should think you'd have plenty of space to add another light in there to supplement the small qb. I've got 2 of these in a 30"x30" and they fit with plenty of room to spare. They're cheap, and easy enough to just hang along with the qb. Let your plant get the light intensity from both. You would then even have floorspace to put some smaller supplemental lights in the corners, to throw some light on the otherwise shaded lower growths.

Honestly, your experience and future plan sound strikingly similar to mine. I'm on the tail end of my first grow rn. 30x30x63 tent; 2 x vipar 300; 3 plants/3 strains; 5 gallon fabric pots with 'supersoil'/no nutes. I ended up doing pretty aggressive training to avoid it getting too unwieldy. Also to keep the leggier plant from growing way taller than the others, and fucking up my light spread. I'm very happy with my plants, but, like you, have decided that the next grow will be a single plant. It'll be easier to keep the conditions/environment consistenly dialed in to the needs of the plant. Much easier than shifting multiple things daily, to ensure the best compromise in conditions/environment to please 3 different plants.

So here's what I'm going to do differently next time, having learned the lessons I have.

1 plant in a 10 gallon pot. Well-amended soil from this grow. I'll be planting a cover crop of clover before the cannabis plant. Germinated in rapid rooter, then plopped into a clearing in the middle of the clovers in the 10 gallon fabric pot. No more layering the soil with FFOF to dilute it. These strains were more than happy to slam the stronger soil. I'm confident the next seedling will be perfectly fine planted directly into 'hot' soil [with the rapid rooter].

Not going to do intensive tie-down training this time, though I probably will top again. This time between nodes 7-8, I think. I might even top the side branches as well.

I'm confident that this approach will greatly increase the simplicity of the process, and also give the genetics a good opportunity to shine.

VIVOSUN 48"x24"x60" Mylar Hydroponic Grow Tent with Observation Window and Floor Tray for Indoor Plant Growing 2'x4' https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DXYMQ9M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dx13BbGGT8164

VIPARSPECTRA Reflector-Series 300W LED Grow Light Full Spectrum for Indoor Plants Veg and Flower https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B4GQ6MO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Hz13BbPVVN2TK

This light is good for 2 plants but you’ll eventually want to add a second for your tent. You definitely can’t fill the tent with just this light, but it’ll get you started.

iPower 2-Pack 1/8 Inch 8-Feet Long Adjustable Heavy Duty Rope Clip Hanger, Reinforced Metal Internal Gears,150lb Capacity https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018WIOEDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_wA13Bb58ZJ5GD

Century 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer - Dual Outlet (Indoor) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVF16JG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XA13Bb9NQJDG1

Comfort Zone CZ6C 6-Inch 2-Speed Clip-On Fan (White, 2 Fans) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JLUZSPC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.E13Bb05JK7B1

247Garden 5-Pack 3 Gallon Grow Bags/Aeration Fabric Pots w/Handles (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JM3JAI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VG13Bb7MGJS2R

https://www.oregonsonly.com/samples/

These are great nutrients and basically foolproof. This free sample kit will get you through 4 plants full grows. I love these nutrients and even now use them in a reservoir (which people claim you can’t do but works great).

Dr.meter 0.1pH PH002 High Accuracy pH Meter/pH Pen Tester with ATC LCD 0-14 pH Measurement Range (PH002 pH Meter for Water) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PU0W35K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fI13BbNRES1BK

That will get you started on your first grow or two. I recommend auto blue mystic from nirvana for your first run. They are very low smell while growing so you can get by without a carbon filter. They’re autos so you can leave the light on 24/7, and they finish fast. Also turns out a great finished product.

https://www.nirvanashop.com/marijuana-seeds/815-blue-mystic-autoflower.html

Less than $40 for 5 seeds and very discrete shipping.

When you have a bit more $ you can add on additional items. Eventually you’ll want to upgrade to PFD sun boards or quantum boards, but you’ll probably want to get a fan and filter first:

6" Inline Fan - 395 CFM Exhaust Duct Fan, Built-In Speed Controller, ETL Listed, Pre-Wired 6 FT Grounded Cord - Great Use In Grow Tent With Carbon Filters, Light Fixtures, Intake. Fits 6 Inch Ducts. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L0D0UEQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TM13Bb5170NC1

Activated Charcoal Carbon Filter 6" x 16", Up to 400 CFM, Premium Grow Tent Odor Scrubber, 1.8" Extra Thick Layer of Top Grade Activated Australian Virgin Charcoal-Great for Hydroponics and Growing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0VN4I5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qN13BbEH9AG9W

Maybe you can upgrade to a 2x4 tray with reservoir so you can automate feeding.

If you don’t want autoflowers you can just do 12/12 from seed for faster harvest. https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-how-to-grow-cannabis-from-seed-under-12-12-lighting-n330

But I really recommend doing the auto blue mystic for your first round or two.

I have a system similar to what you're describing, I posted it a while back here.

I have changed things recently, and maybe I can share with you some of the mistakes I made so you can avoid them. Firstly, you want a way to divide your flow and control it with ball valves. This is a great cheap pump on amazon. I know it seems like the gallons per hour are high, and with a small system that becomes an issue. If flow is too disruptive in your tank, your fish aren't happy. If flow is too high in your tiny grow bed, your plants aren't happy. I split the flow from my pump to divert some of it to two media beds and a third directly back into my tank. The splitting system was made of PVC and ball valves. It was the only way to reduce the flow rate so it wasn't crazy disruptive. A timer only costs about 10 USD and 15 min intervals really do help, even for an ornamental tank. I'd also recommend a bell siphon just because they're cool and can be made small. It helps your roots breathe.


I have aggressive filtration; small systems are very delicate and temperamental. Having lots of physical and biological filtration helps with this. I have an under gravel filter and also made a small canister filter that I run the water through before the media bed; you can make one out of anything water-tight. This provides a bit more water for your system and more aggressive filtration. Mine is full of filter mesh and bucky balls. I found that without this pre-filter, my media was getting disgusting within a few months.


My cheap fluorescent light worked like crap. You just can't grow things with anything but a good window or a good grow light. Amazon occasionally has great deals on lights, like this one. The T5's are great for little indoor systems.


Using clear acrylic tubing was stupid. It ended up with so much growth it gummed up everything. It also leaked like crazy everywhere even with hose clamps because it wasn't really made for any pressure. Use cheap black vinyl pond tubing like this. It's made specifically for this purpose and doesn't cost much more.


Heating a small system like this is a pain in the ass. I had a heater that was rated for 30 gallons, a heater in my canister, and it still couldn't keep up. Because there's so little water, as your water recirculates, it cools to room temp quickly. This makes your fish have to deal with constant temp fluctuations, which is stressful for them. You can get expensive line heaters on top of a heater for each tank, keep the room your tank is in at 24 degrees C, or just use cold water fish. I'd recommend the latter unless you have a good budget.


Finally, you still want to follow the general rules of aquarium keeping. Cichlids have no business in a 10 gallon tank, its way too small for them. Also an ideal pH for plants is ~6.8, so you need fish that are pH tolerant. I'm a little more lenient about goldfish and personally feel you can put 1-2 in a 10 gallon if you know how to keep your water chemistry happy. Goldfish police in this sub will tell you otherwise. That's up to your own opinion and research. Many people like to plant their ornamental AP tank, which is fine as long as they don't suck up all the nutrients and leave your herbs with nothing. I got rid of that second tank up top because I was naively hoping to use it as a little DWC area, but it became more hassle than it was worth for 4 net cups. I now have a 10 gallon tote, which is about the size you would want for your growbed as well. Fill it as high as you can to give your plants maximum root space.

I have both an LED Ebb and Flow system running and i do basil, bib and Paris Island lettuce's in that system and i am growing some leafy salad bowl lettuce on a rack under T5 lights on the side of the room by just watering the flat each day. The T5's are legit and will indeed grow herbs and lettuce with ease but you want to keep the lights close so it may be best to do similar sized herbs under the T5 and like the above poster stated, the light penetration into tall plants may not be the greatest. Stuff like cilantro, perhaps a dwarf basil, dill, chives would grow like crazy under a well placed T5.

A good $250-$500 range LED is going to be stronger then a T5 and i am not suggesting a T5 is better then a real deal LED im just suggesting that a T5 is an easy entry option that will indeed work well.

Want my opinion? Start out by getting a light and a few 1020 flats, 2 sheets of grodan rockwool cubes 1.5" some nutes, ph stuff, tds pen and grow them for a bit outside a system and under lights by just watering the flats with the rockwool cubes each day. In like 3 weeks you can be using your new herbs to cook and its cheap to start out and could even move them into a system at a month or so into it if you wish to do so.

Here are the gold standard T5 lights below - both are gold standard hydroponic T5 lights widely used and time tested and are both great.

https://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-Agrobrite-FLT48-Fluorescent-System/dp/B005H1C7NA/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=t5%2Blights&qid=1569300542&s=gateway&sr=8-10&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007FGE6C0/ref=twister_B01N7P0ZSB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Your list looks fine. These suggestions are based on personal experience:

• If you have space, consider a larger tent. I bought a 4x4 a couple years ago and have wished I went with 5x5 ever since. Not to grow more plants, but to have more room to work and place things like fans.
  
  
• I used FFOF and the FF trio for my first two grows and then switched to NFTG soil and nutes. The nute line is a little more costly, but I've had much better results since ditching FF. NFTG will send you a free sample kit of their nutes which should get you through a grow or two. Their nutes are fully organic and not salt based like FF
  
  
• I have not been very happy with my 'blurple' marshydro LED. I bought it for my veg tent, but a T5 has worked much better. If I were to go back and buy one light, it would probably be a CMH. (Budget, High End). If you are handy, DIY COB is a great option as well.
  
  What is the ambient temp where you will be growing? Relative Humidity? An AC unit and/or dehumidifier may be necessary. Better to get them from the start and not run into heat/humidity issues than to purchase them after problems appear.
  
  If you have a local grow store, I'd stop there before ordering anything. They may have everything you need and are a great source of information as well.

HPS/MH - Cheap, good yield, Electricity$$$, Heat, need vented hood ideally, electronic ballast are ofter power adjustable, regular magnetic ballast are last long and are reliable.

best source in canada : amazon, your hydro store, a few hydro online store.

​

,Quantum board: Expensive, good yield, about half wattage usage as a hps for same efficiency, not much heat, diy to save money, Chinese (alibababa) alternative is half the price, Not much complaint anywhere from ppl using chinese qb

550w HLG : around 1400$ .... 550w alibaba around 550$ all in

best source in canada: HLG Canada, sometimes amazon.ca, alibaba to get same parts as hlg from supplier directly.

​

Cheap led (blurple) (purple light you see in some pics): older technology, probably does an ok job but not sure its worth it for the money, but they are very cheap but don't output wattage advertised. ok as first buget grow but there is better options for not much more money

best source in canada : Amazon, ebay, aliexpress etc

​

T5 (and cfl i guess) : great for clones, seedlings and veg but not convinced yet they are better and cheaper than going the chinese quantum board way. big and a bit bulky. Perfect for seedling and cloner,

easily find it anywhere. Amazon, hardware store, hydro store.

​

CMH : have no info

​

with everything running and around 1700w of light electric bill can be a bitch...

so going with qb led is a good way of keeping long term cost down and pay for itself fast.

​

Get 1 room for flowering, one for Veg+clones. harvest every 60days

-I would go with T5 for seedlings

https://www.amazon.ca/SunBlaster-0900302-Nanotech-Reflector-Medium/dp/B0748CH4B9/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1549218126&sr=8-10&keywords=t5+24

https://www.amazon.ca/DL822-Fluorescent-Hydroponic-Fixture-System/dp/B009GU4QPU/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1549218196&sr=8-9&keywords=t5+fixture

​

-small quantum board for veg 135w or 240w (id get the alibaba version via King Brite supplier)

this is for 3x3

https://www.horticulturelightinggroup.ca/collections/all/products/135w-led-board-kit

​

For flowering , 320w or 550w qb led, HLG if money is no problem, Alibaba if on a budget. the 320 is equivalent to a 600w hps and the 550w a 1000w. Or 600w HPS is always a good option in my opinion.

https://www.horticulturelightinggroup.ca/collections/all/products/320w-xl-qb-v2-led-kit

https://www.horticulturelightinggroup.ca/collections/all/products/hlg-550

​

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!
      

First grow.

This took 2-3 months. Seems like I ran into a number of first-timer pitfalls along the way. Good learning experience though.

Can't wait. So god damn tired of shady, undependable hook ups.


Edit 2:

Photos of my setup.

• http://i.imgur.com/fc8wn1B.jpg
  
• http://i.imgur.com/HmUWGgR.jpg
  
• http://i.imgur.com/nOcwlPm.png
  
  
  
  Edit 1:
  
  Some have asked about my setup. This is about everything. This is my first grow so take my suggestions with a cup of salt but this stuff has worked well for me.
  
  Tent:
  
  Zero complains. Very happy with this. It just fits perfectly into a closet (had to remove the hanger bar though).
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004U6WCMY
  
  
  Air
  
  
  
  Carbon filter:
  
  The inside of my tent stinks. I smell absolutely nothing outside. Don't get caught. Get a good carbon filter. Maybe not this one, but something.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FVJK60
  
  
  Inline fan:
  
  I hand this outside the tent. No need to take up any space or add any heat inside the tent.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JQ14F8
  
  
  Variable xformer for fan control:
  
  This allows me to control the noise and airflow. Every other fan controller made the fan buzz. This thing is quality built. I keep it around 50v.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006NGI8VS
  
  
  Circulation fans:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004RTMD8C
  
  
  DWC
  
  
  
  
  Bucket top net pots:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049XIIGC
  
  
  Air pump:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JPEVMC
  
  
  Airline:
  
  The black just prevents light from getting into my res.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001D4XTUU
  
  
  Air stones:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050HJ7Q6
  
  
  Check valves:
  
  You NEED these. Many airlines are thin enough that if the power goes out or a hose becomes disconnected, capillary action might permit water to back-flow into your electrical air pump and/or just flood your room. Don't take chances when a .50 cent valve will protect you. There are some horror stories in the aquarium hobby about this. Note, even if the air pump is higher than your res, capillary action can pull the water up through the air hose. This is the same principle that allows 100ft trees carry water from the roots to the canopy.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00977J508
  
  
  Lighting
  
  
  
  Lights:
  
  Word of warning. Start off a good distance between the lights and your canopy. These product more light than you think and I have burned and cooked plants from keeping these too close. They don't product a ton of heat or anything. I think it's just too much light if they aren't a good foot or so away from the canopy. I assumed I could practically lay LEDs on top of my canopy. Not so.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FGFLCXS
  
  
  Adjustable ropes for lights:
  
  Chains work, these are just faster/easier to adjust.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0098R0600
  
  
  Tools
  
  
  
  Temp/humidity sensors:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013BKDO8
  
  
  pH pen:
  
  I used to do chemical reagent tests (I have tons of aquariums so I had it laying around). Never again. A pen is fucking awesome for dialing in pH every morning. Get one!
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EQISYQO
  
  
  Pruning snips:
  
  These are great. Sharp as fuck and solid.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004SD76
  
  
  Training wire:
  
  What I use for my scrog screen and early training before the screen goes in. Also good for random shit that's temporary enough I don't want to waste a zip tie.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EXJ652
  
  
  Nutes/Water changes
  
  
  
  
  Pond pump:
  
  This is another must have! I've been using these for a while now to handle water changes in my aquariums. It's also awesome for mixing nutes before they go into your DWC. I drop one in a bucket without a hose attached and then just dump all my nutes and such in. The pump does all the mixing. Then I adjust the pH a little. Give the pump about 10-20 seconds to mix my pH up or down in and test again. I don't have to worry my pH adjustment isn't probably mixed yet. I makes the mixing process so easy and fast. I also use these to pump out my res once the scrog screen is in place.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006M6MSL0
  
  
  Root protectant:
  
  One of my early problems was with brown algae. This cleared it right up after a week.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IGFH3FG
  
  
  Syringes:
  
  No guess work. I know exactly how many ml I'm adding.
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RB3CV6
  
  
  Cal-mag:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000J2CUPW
  
  pH control:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BNKWZY
  
  
  Nutes:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000COBT54
  
  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CO7U02
  
  
  
  
  

Go buy a 4x4 tent, ideally gorilla but can get cheaper.

https://growershouse.com/gorilla-grow-tent-4-x-4?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&adpos=1o1&scid=scplp6055&sc_intid=6055&gsacid=952890155&keyword=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw4jvBRCJARIsAHYewPMdnaA3pI_kaqr7hDDtRfQzZ5-nIJ_myYwy_RzlSfPlTYAKJuHyn5MaAotOEALw_wcB#!

Order the light


https://growershouse.com/horticulture-lighting-group-hlg-600w-qb288-v2-r-spec-led-kit?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&adpos=1o2&scid=scplp15744&sc_intid=15744&gsacid=952890155&keyword=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw4jvBRCJARIsAHYewPMp8yJqTkQMEmC5Db2_3fMT73eIoyEVEXZMPbEIJIB_wpvPAEW537saAsyFEALw_wcB

Inline fan


AC Infinity CLOUDLINE T6, Quiet 6" Inline Duct Fan with Temperature Humidity Controller - Ventilation Exhaust Fan for Heating Cooling Booster, Grow Tents, Hydroponics https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074XBXFPD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LMT4Db95YN9QZ

Carbon filter


VIVOSUN 6 Inch Air Carbon Filter Odor Control with Australia Virgin Charcoal for Inline Fan, Grow Tent Odor Scrubber, Pre-Filter Included, Reversible Flange 6"x 18" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01731MLFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_HNT4Db23PB3M8

Flex duct

VIVOSUN 6 Inch 25 Feet Non-Insulated Flex Air Aluminum Ducting for HVAC Ventilation w/Two 6 Inch Stainless Steel Clamps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010UCCMW6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yPT4DbNQFABKE

Fan


SPT Wall Mount 16" Fan with Remote Control https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071Y8CN45/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_oQT4DbV2ANXJG

Temp/hygrometer

AcuRite 00613 Indoor Thermometer & Hygrometer with Humidity Gauge, 3" H x 2.5" W x 1.3" D https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013BKDO8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xRT4Db8N3X0K6

Rope hanger

iPower GLROPEX2 2-Pair 1/8 Inch 8-Feet Long Heavy Duty Adjustable Rope Clip Hanger (150lbs Weight Capacity) Reinforced Metal, 2 Pack, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018WIOEDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iST4DbF0EQJAK

Light timer

BN-LINK 7 Day Outdoor Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer BND/U78, 125VAC, 60Hz, Dual Outlet, Weatherproof, Heavy Duty, Accurate For Lamps Ponds Christmas Lights 1875W 1/2HP ETL Listed https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G9RK4VV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_wWT4Db5Q74NPA

PH meter

Digital PH Meter, PH Meter 0.01 PH High Accuracy Water Quality Tester with 0-14 PH Measurement Range for Household Drinking, Pool and Aquarium Water PH Tester Design with ATC (2020-Yellow) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08197LX6H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TXT4DbZ8TF1W

Tower of Power

Hydrofarm TMTOP6 Tower of Power https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001WAL58I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_f1T4Db88GD2GE

Loupe

VIVOSUN 30X 60X Illuminated Jewelers Loupe Foldable Magnifier with LED Light for Jewelry Gems Watches Coins Stamps Antiques Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VK1LVKX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_62T4DbR2KDDY4

Measuring cups.

Garden Smart Measuring Glass (1, 1 ounce) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073C6S1LS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_o5T4DbQFTS4FY


Fox Run Brands 4892COM 4-Ounce Mini Measuring Glass, Regular, Clear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000N4CQWI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_95T4DbTWPWNMP


Get some short heavy gauge cords

Still haven’t said what medium, so I can’t recommend anything there for nutes or pots. Since your new, I’d consider soil and airpots.

You’ve got lots to learn, buy the grow encyclopedia.

The Cannabis Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to Cultivation & Consumption of Medical Marijuana https://www.amazon.com/dp/1878823345/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_9RIDjvgDjnPoc

I’m sure I forgot something, it’s off the top of my head, you’ll always be running and picking up a trinket or two. That said, this will get you far down the path.

Need to decide medium and I can help point you towards genetics. Probably clones to start off.

All of these will be totally fine with a grow light. There is a huge range you can get depending on your budget/space for plants. Quite honestly, most of them should be fine! I have a Sansi LED in a pretty normal looking light fixture for some of my orchids and two sets of fluorescents for my bigger plants. (I live in a pretty dark apartment.) All of them work great!

I was only particular about the orchids because some of them have particular light requirements for flowering. All of the foliage plants you mentioned should be pretty happy with regular fluorescents (which are cheaper). I have this two foot fixture strung up on a tension rod and hooked up to a timer and at least one pothos is growing like crazy under it - perhaps this would fit your needs? Happy to send links to the others too if you don't have one in mind you're looking at. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0721TG86M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Welcome to growing weed. It's the very best hobby in the world. The light that you bought will get you through your first month or two of growth, but you're going to need to upgrade before you switch to flower if you want to grow dense, potent bud. A 600 watt HPS/MH like this is your least expensive option that will max out that 4x4 with light and keep it warm too. You can put your oil filled radiator directly in the tent to keep it warm at night. Don't let your temps inside the tent drop below 65F if you can avoid it. Good luck! I hope your first harvest is dank and delicious.

I am concerned that it is not enough. All of my grow lights are 30W+ and they're relatively small. You also need photo cells specifically designed for growing plants (if you're using LED). Regular LED lighting is not sufficient for proper growth because it does not emit the correct light spectrum.

Considering purchasing a clip on 30W grow light from amazon. They're less than $30 and most of them work great. I prefer the natural colors >

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MV2GF84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_nAjBDbD3QHG2F

Or

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QNHTZ9C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_5AjBDb2J9MJ0B

Also, light meters for artificial lighting will often read much lower than what is recommended for growth, despite the plant growing phenomenally. As an example, I have a dryadella aviceps sitting under light that only reads 110FC, yet it is blooming like a madman. It requires 500FC at least when grown under sun. This is because artificial lighting is constant, both in the amount of light and the duration. Sunlight is less in the morning and less at night, whereas 12 hours of LED lighting is consistent in brightness throughout the entire day. Light meters are only good after you have found the proper growing intensity for plants, so you can replicate it for like species.

There's a single t5 high output bulb above each shelf. They're around 6500k. Reading some more, I may need two bulbs per shelf, but I'm gonna see how they do for now. but there is room under the shelves for it if I wanted to add more.

The shelf was found on amazon, but I wish I bought the one that my costco had on sale for only $20 more, it was a good bit nicer, but this one is solid wood and not bad looking.

Full view of the setup There's more shelves that would hold more fixtures, but since it's in a living space I didn't want to install a sun right where we spend a good deal of our time. I'll try and post updates in a few days/week, since the propagations have been growing quickly, I should be able to see if they're progressing/happy fairly quickly.

Hi - it looks good to be honest. Depending on what you will be growing, and from what stage you will be growing (ie. seeds vs seedlings vs mature plants) you will want to be able to move the lights closer to the plants, since T8 bulbs are not particularly strong.


Instead of those pink strings, look into something like these from amazon:


https://www.amazon.com/iPower-GLROPE-Adjustable-Improved-Resistant/dp/B005CY100I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496247379&sr=8-1&keywords=ratchet+light+hanger


That way you can easily adjust the level the lights hang at.


The lights really don't generate much heat, so it's not going to light your wall on fire. If you want to increase efficiency of the light, you could put something reflective on the wall. The previous poster is correct in that it would be a bit more effective if it was sitting centered over your plants instead of against the wall.

As someone who's considered this before, here's what I'd generally plan for:

Get a square light like this.

Work the top shelf to be on top of the lights with a slot for the light to slide into.

Look at the light distribution from the top down. Maybe it's just using that light on the top shelf, having high-light plants directly beneath, and low light plants on the second row beneath. This could be better done if the first shelf is made of acrylic or glass.

Adjust accordingly. Like I said, I've never actually done this. Set up in a window you might have plenty of light without a grow light at all, or maybe you even need an array on each shelf! It would be easier to tell by the plants as well. An Echeveria would like being directly below that array, but a Haworthia or Kalanchoe might like a degree of separation.


Hope I was of some help! Always here if you have other questions!

My current setup.

Light: FLT46 & will soon be adding an FLT44 since I've run out of space under the light. These are great lights and since switching from the LED panels I had, I've seen nicer blushing. Tight growth continues as well! Only downside possibly is that these throw a bit of heat. Not much, but I don't think I'll like this light as much in the summer.

Stands: Right now I've just got a couple of tables. I'm hoping to switch to some sort of rolling half-shelf at some point, but I haven't found the right one.

Pots: From left to right:

• 6" round plastic pots (Not a fan of these. Replacing with heavier square plastic pots soon)
  
• 4" square plastic pots in a heavy duty 1020 tray
  
• 2" square plastic pots in a heavy duty 1020 tray
  
• Loose 2" pots because I ran out of trays
  
• a flat plastic tray designed for catching water under long planters, but I use it for props
  In case it wasn't clear, I'm a huge fan of those 1020 trays. Due to the height of the light, I need to take out the plants to water them, and pulling out one tray at a time is loads easier. Plus it protects my tables from water damage!
  
  Tools: I recently purchased this kit and I can't believe I didn't have it before! It makes transplanting so much easier, especially for delicate plants or ones with nice farina. (Fair warning, order one that's prime guaranteed. I ordered the same kit from a different seller and 3 months later I still haven't received it.)
  
  Top Dressing: I wanted white pebbles and the top dressing bags they had at nurseries were crazy expensive for such a small amount. So I bought this from Petsmart and I'm really liking it so far! As with any top dressing, I've decreased watering since the soil stays wet a bit longer. It's mostly for looks, and to protect the lower leaves from sitting on the soil directly.

That really helps, thanks. I want to do my girls proud when the time comes.

I looked at the sidebar on MicroGrowery and saw the brand recommendation is iPower for HPS. I have these choices available to me.

iPower GLSETX600DHMAC6 600W Light Digital Dimmable System for Plants-Air Cooled Hood Set

iPower GLSETX600DHMWING20T 600W Light Digital Dimmable HPS MH Grow Light Ballast System for Plant with Wing Set

iPower GLSETX600DHMCT6 600W Light Digital Dimmable HPS MH Grow Light System for Plants-Cool Tube Set

iPower GLSETX600DHAC6 Digital Dimmable HPS Grow Light System for Plants with Air Cooled Hood Set, 600W

iPower GLSETX600DHCT6 Digital Dimmable HPS Grow Light System for Plants with Cool Tube Set, 600W

Which do you think would be the best for the 47x47 area?

And I will follow your advice about getting the inline fan with carbon filter.

I bought these recently and I loveeee them. I thought they would look out of place in my house but it’s like a nice spotlight on my bbs 🥰

Your set up is very nice my dude 👍👍CFL's tend to be a slower way to grow plants and i noticed on amazon the cfl you have is about 75$ or so. COB LED grow lights are the latest thing out as of now. They offer highest lumens for the least watts. The 200watt one i linked below would be a good alternative or support light for you as it doesn't dissipate too much heat probably a little less or around the same as the CFL you have, as a rough estimate, and will help your plants grow a little faster. Just need to get a 120/200v outlet as the plug is different. Good luck on your grow man 👍

Roleadro 200W COB Full Spectrum LED Grow Light with Unique Daisy-Chain Function https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I4NY6GS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_pRPHybCP7XG13

Think of these buckets as a template, every grower solves problems differently and that is why you won't find two identical setups. That creative freedom is part of the beauty of the space bucket experience :D

It is really a simple design, you can build one with little effort. I don't know what your budget is, but if you get a UFO LED light you just need to put it on a lid and add some PC fans on the side. If you go the CFL route you can get something like this 4-way adapter that is very easy to install and comes already wired with a plug (and a fuse actually). You'll need to do some benchmarking and debugging but those parts have been bucket-tested and will make your build easier.

I hate asking you to do my homework for me, but do you think you can reccomend to me some grow lamps to have in my tent?

​

This is what I ordered

​

https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Reflective-Indoor-Hydroponic-Growing/dp/B07HQMX3S1/ref=pd_ybh_a_14?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WRQP0659XB8JMPFFNS5D

​

I looked at this,

​

https://www.amazon.com/Niello-Spectrum-Dissipation-Hydroponics-Greenhouse/dp/B07H3WPVL6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=cob&qid=1561939034&s=gateway&sr=8-1

​

and this.

​

https://www.amazon.com/Double-Spectrum-Greenhouse-Indoor-Flower/dp/B0185OLBPK/ref=pd_rhf_dp_s_cr_simh__8?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0185OLBPK&pd_rd_r=08b35f2c-7e42-4923-a741-db427e372e14&pd_rd_w=fg5nM&pd_rd_wg=9sXJL&pf_rd_p=67aa5820-8762-4202-90ba-881bb99c913c&pf_rd_r=P503HNVMP0KBFTX09G19&psc=1&refRID=P503HNVMP0KBFTX09G19

​

I would love your reccomendation. I'm growing just a few plants currently. Also, I think my tent is pretty cold. It's at 75F currently, i'd like to bump it up to 82F. Do you have any suggestions?

No problemo.

I have these two bulbs/lights in my bookmarks. They have the right specs, so something to compare it to if you want to look at your local hardware store or something. I also currently use this light, I don't hang it though, it literally just sits on top of a metal wire shelf (It is attached to the ceiling but that was a precaution as I didn't want it falling off because cats and you never know when an earthquake is going to hit). Using a metal shelving unit like that can make hanging lights pretty easy, even ones like this can just be zip tied. And there's even longer ones depending on how extensive your collection is/is going to get (Which are the same lights used here in that redditer's setup which I think looks so fucking SWEET and it's now my dream set up for the future, and the user just put them up with heavy duty double sided tape of all things???).

Not to be biased (especially from a novice), but I have to agree, it does sound like a good set up. Yeah the doors will stay closed and only opened to check on them and the walls will be 100% covered in mylar. How would I go about upping the humidity if it does get too low? I have this bookmarked, however that's been in there for a while now and haven't checked if there's anything better available, which I'm going to assume there is.

seriously i get it qb are great but i would need to spend double upfront and i might need to supply more heat anyway at the since this place is hard to keep warm in cold winter. i think i'll try with an hps instead.

do you think a kit like this would be good? and what is a good sized tent to go with it?

I love my lights, they may not look very ~aesthetic~ but they keep my succulents quite happy in my otherwise poorly-lit house!! This is the big light, the smaller ones are these and are paper-clipped to the bottom of my wire shelving. Oh, and I do indeed have a couple burro's tails so that's probably what you're seeing! :)

That does look nice. I did consider Bright Agro's Farm Wall, but those things are insanely expensive and hard to find in Canada -- although they do kind of take care of all the filtration and structure as well. One downside though is that my room only gets sunlight in the AM, so I would have to put my lights up vertically, which ends up ruining the aesthetics anyway.

That's a good point about elevating the tank. I'm a tiny Japanese guy, so both physically and culturally, I'm used to things being closer to the ground. I actually wouldn't have very good access to the plants if I were to stack a grow bed above the height of the tank as it is now.

I have one fixture that holds four 4 foot T5s. Could eventually expand to a second one.

What would you suggest for solids filtration? It seems like a swirl/radial flow filter would be overkill for somethign like this.

If you look on Amazon there are LOTS AND LOTS of grow lights. I have bought several. I have had good luck with the LED grow lights. They are more energy efficient and the plants seem to do well. If you get some just make sure they are FULL SPECTRUM.


You can also get flourescent T5 grow lights. They do fine but just use more energy. They also tend to run hotter so be aware of how close they are to your plants so they don't burn.
Here's some links to check out.


2-Pack T5 HO Grow Light - 1 Bulb Light System - Fluorescent Hydroponic Indoor Fixture Bloom Veg Daisy Chain with Bulbs (2 Foot & w/Reflector (DL8021R 2pack), Cool White | Vegetative) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPKQPSL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_AH8ZCbAC10EX4


Winjoy Grow Light, 30W LED Grow Lamp Bulbs Plant Lights Full Spectrum, Auto ON & Off with 3/6/12H Timer 5 Dimmable Levels Clip-On Desk Grow Lamp for Indoor Plants https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JLJFWNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_vI8ZCbNC3C5D4


JCBritw LED Grow Light for Indoor Plants Full Spectrum UV Red Blue 100W Pro B Plant Grow Lamp Panel Bulbs Greenhouse Hydroponic Hanging Kit for Seedlings,Veg and Flower https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GWTT39T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XI8ZCb2E7EYCN

Oh ok, not that I know of but here's another option, plug and play like the ufo too, https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01I4NY6GS/, this other one fits into regular sockets but is still get the ufo over them, https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01IVQ985M/, taking in consideration the amount of light for the price. Yes all cobs need a driver to work if you buy it by itself but plug and play fixtures include them obviously.

Do a little more research. There are better options out there for a little bit more money that will work way better. What is your budget? How much space are you looking to light? What crops are you trying to grow? These all matter quite a bit.

Personally- this is the direction I would point you towards:

https://www.amazon.com/Light-LM301B-Quantum-Board-660nm/dp/B07W6YSYL2/ref=sr_1_34?keywords=quantum+led&qid=1572735505&sr=8-34

But a decent T5 fixture will work well for starters. An added benefit is that you can change bulbs out across your grow cycle for proper spectrum for the plants at specific growth stages.

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroplanet-Fluorescent-Included-Horticulture-Gardening/dp/B019J3UPUS/ref=sr_1_5?crid=I625429FQV30&keywords=t5+led+grow+lights+4ft&qid=1572735678&s=lawn-garden&sprefix=t5%2Clawngarden%2C190&sr=1-5

That second light with the Cree will put out close to twice the light per the amount of energy consumed as that cheap "300 watt" light. That second, more expensive light is also advertising a Mean Well power supply which is a top brand name that should last for +5 years.

The problem is with the lighting/tote geometry you'd be better off with two lights spaced apart particularly when they have 90 degree lenses. Or a light that has a rectangular geometry. That may influence your choice.

If you want cheap then something like this could provide better lighting geometry for totes. A cheap light like that with Epistar LEDs will still put out much less light per amount of energy consumed (in the ball park of 1.2 uMol/joule) compared to high end LED lights (closer to 2.4 uMol/joules).

Hmmm... I did not. Though, I thought it was typical to have 12 on, 12 off light cycles. Is that not correct? Should I just get one that is ideal for longer hours? Thanks for the help!

Edit: This looks like a better option, no?

Yes, that would be a perfect size for two or three plants. My first was 36” x 36” with 4 plants, but it was a little tight.

You can use a couple of carabiners to hang the lights from the aluminum tube frame. I use these. Makes it super easy to adjust the height.

The one you linked draws 180 watts from the wall. It would do but for a couple dollars more you could get something better. I see a lot of people using the Mars hydro 2 lights with decent results.

I personally grow auto flowers with this light. It’s not a LED though but it fits our purposes. it covers a 4x4 area, has switches so you can run it at half or full power which is around 450 watts. The advantage I see to it is the bulbs are serviceable unlike the LEDs so I can swap out different bulbs to adjust my spectrum exactly how I want it for different stages. Until your ready for plants 4’ or higher it would do you well.

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroplanet-Fluorescent-Included-Horticulture-Gardening/dp/B019J3UPUS?keywords=led+grow+lights&qid=1538324212&sr=8-1-spons&ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa&psc=1

Yeah, those are definitely easier to find & less expensive. My current lights are hanging from one of these stands, though, and I would have to figure out how to make those shop lights work with that setup. I dunno if I'm that creative lol

• Soil Medium:
  Fox Farm -Happy Frog
  
• Lights
  3*45 watt 6-band LED grow lights
  
• Strain
  Mendo Breath clones
  11-14 weeks old
  
• Pot size
  10 gallons
  
• Nutrients added (once):
  Mykos - Mycorrhizal inoculant - ½ cup
  Bone Meal (1-12-0) - 10 tsp
  Blood meal (12-0-0) - 10 tsp
  Kelp meal (1-0.1-2) - 10 tsp
  Mocha bat guano (4-6-1) - 10 tsp
  DE -added to the surface once, no pests so far
  Watered with humic acid once
  Regularly water with 1 tsp unsulphured molasses per every 2 liters
  
• I really want to decide when I should induce flowering. Was thinking about moving 1 or 2 outdoors. The plants have purple stems, I think from a number of causes like nutrient burn and being in such tiny containers. Any advice or opinions are welcome. Thanks!
  

I use something like this for my bow/stern lines. Mine look about the same but less shitty that those. I think mine were like $20 for the pair. The B/S lines are just to prevent the yak from being able to shift around, I like to set mine to pull at an angle, the front rope pulling to the passenger side and the rear to the drivers.

I looked up the Malone Wings and it looks like they have cam-lock straps, not ratcheting straps. I don't like cams for anything and strongly prefer a quality ratcheting strap. You have to be careful as a good strap will have enough strength to damage some yaks but it's very simple to get them set correctly.

Was wondering what would be my best option.

Currently looking at this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FGFLCXS/ref=pd_aw_sims_7?pi=SS115&simLd=1

Curious if this is my best option if trying to conserve energy and is this a good option for minimum heat.

Also took a glance at this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0091HO0FY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0091HO0FY&linkCode=as2&tag=spacbuck-20


Opinions?

Nope! In the mountains in central Washington.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009GU4QPU/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1 this is the light on the top shelf, I like it best :)

Hi there!

So I would really like to get into the art of Bonsai. I've been looking at getting a Ficus. The only problem is that it would have to permanently (at least for the foreseeable future) live indoors, as I live in a townhouse complex, without access to a balcony/private yard/fenced in area. I completely understand bonsai don't do well indoors, but with the proper lighting is it doable? I have been looking at lighting from local hydroponic shops and am having trouble picking a light. Would a basic 100 Watt-Equivalent CFL work? Or should I get something a bit fancier like one of these?

250 Watt, 6500K CFL with Reflector

2 Foot, 2 Tube, T5 Fluorescent

60 x 10 Watt LED Grow Light (600 Watt Equivalent)

60 x 10 Watt LED Grow Light (900 Watt Equivalent)

[CFL 13 Watt = 65 Watt Equivalent, 6500K] (https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.cfl-13w--60w-mini-twister-daylight-6500k---case-of-12-bulbs.1000681198.html)

CFL 23 Watt = 100 Watt 2700K

CFL 23 Watt = 100 Watt 6500K

If I were to get Fluorescents I would need a stand of some sort. Would something like this work? Should I change the bulbs to something more powerful?

24 Watt, 6400K, 2 Feet T5

Any of the lights purchased would be kept on an automatic timer indoors. Should the length of the timer be affected by the power of the bulb? Less powerful = More time per day?

Im using fox farm ocean forest , I just close the tent and let it get as high humidity as it wants, but I open the tent at least once a day and run a fan to give the plants a workout

The light I’m using is a viparspectra vt300, I was told by pretty much everyone that kratom doesn’t like led light but that’s what I’m using anyways , I just dim it down

viparspectra vt300

I would highly recommend these, especially if you've got shelves that you can easily attach zip ties to(like wire shelves). I've bought two sets and couldn't be happier with them. They are unfortunately WAY too bright for a handful of plants, but the majority of mine are thriving under them. The only part that gets fairly warm is the metal bar on the tops of the lights, but with the way mine hang, it doesn't actually touch anything so I'm not worried.

I've also got several of the bendy LED lights that you clip on something, those seem like they work well also. I have one of each of these for some of my lower light plants like calathea, and a couple ferns, and just the remainder of my plants that won't fit on my shelves. My only complaint is that the purple one I bought doesn't have an auto timer, nor does it have a manual on/off switch, so I have to turn it on every morning I come in. It's just an inconvenience, but it also means it doesn't run on the weekends, so. I'd love to replace it with a different one. The rest of my lights I have on timers from 8-5 every day.

I run T5's and love them because they are cool and dont pull too much energy. I have a 6 lamp 4 foot T5 HO and it does well for everything I have tried to grow so far.
LIKE THIS

iPower 600 Watt HPS MH Digital Dimmable Grow Light System Kits Wing Reflector Set with Timer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CQ8ROYO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Xy6QDbJXSBWGP

This one is similar to The one I have, they put off a lot of heat so in the garage or something like that works best. T5 fluorescent lighting works good indoors and doesn’t put off nearly as much heat. T5 uses a lot less power too.

Don't be afraid to use LED grow lighting so you don't have to have the plants all clustered near the window.

You can get full spectrum lights that are white and not that pink light

Ive had really good luck with this particular light. I have one pointed at a large pothos I have and Ive never seen this plant so happy and healthy

You could set the timer so the light only comes on during hours you know your roommate will usually be in class.

I have the same problem with the lack of light. I use these grow lights around my house

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MV2GF84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NwVIDb2ESQ500

I’ve mainly used them for succulents but my succulents are growing like crazy under these so I assume it’d be good for anything. I like them because they don’t have weird harsh lighting like some of the other light bulbs. You can use them with the clamp they come with or I’ve even taken the bulb out and put it in lamps. Itd have to be a specific kind of lamp though. I’ve also heard these grow lights are really good but they are kinda pricey.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078PN1X96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SBVIDb4WAXP83

I use something like this to rachet my grain bag up, and it's super easy. Only really works if you have something to hook it up to; I use a rafter above my brewing area.

These are the lights I️ use.
This is the light that I️ like best. $30 from Amazon. It doesn’t put off very much heat.
This is the one that is not so good. $25 from Amazon.

You're definitely going to want to get a proper lighting rig. Light is one of the biggest growth and quality factors.

I suggest something like this: iPower GLSETX400DHMAC6 Horticulture 400 Watt HPS MH Digital Dimmable Ballast Grow Light System Kits Air Cooled Reflector Hood Set, 400W https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005GYMM6U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_osB3DbE3F6Y0V

It doesn't have to be this one. Try to get something that takes mh and hps bulbs and has a closed, vented hood.

Proper lighting will up your game.

Make sure you have a fan to exhaust the heat from the light.

Read this: https://www.growweedeasy.com/cannabis-grow-lights

Then read everything else on that website.

Thanks, the idea just popped into my head. My girlfriend helped me wrap it. She wrapped it like a present. the shelf from Home Depot DuroLux DL822N T5 HO 2Ft 2 Fluorescent Lamps Grow Lighting System with 5000 Lumens and 6500K Full Spectrum and Low Profile 7" Wide Reflector https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0721TG86M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_BopMBb3AMYVFR
Hydrofarm ABWP1 Black and White Polymer, 5-1/2 mm/10' x 10' https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004WI44LM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7opMBbEPVJ9EY
And some black duct tape to help blend everything in. A little work, with a lot of satisfaction.

Edit: we used velcro for a separate door

My dimensions are 26 inches by 14 inches so a little over 2x1 and 33 inches tall. I've been using a 150w hps which works really well but with summer approaching I need to find something that runs cooler. I recently upgraded my 2x2 tent with a 125w qb that I have yet to test but so far I like the light. Was thinking of getting a smaller qb but not sure what wattage to get. The 65w qb on Alibaba is exspensive to ship so I was looking for other options. I also have a cheap blurple laying around, I think it pulls like 60ish watts https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01I4NY6GS/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
Could I use that with a smaller qb perhaps from supergreenlab? Was thinking this https://shop.supergreenlab.com/collections/veg-lights/products/sgb-72-301b or should I go a different route all together? Thanks

I would move that LED to be 30 inches or higher. you'll get some stretch, but you can manage that. Better than stressing the plants with heat and light. ANother option might be to put a clear cup over the plants and use the LED. But man, I would monitor closely.
If youre going to be growing for years over and over, get a more suitable light for the seedlings. Seedling phase is so important to get right so don't fuck around. Do it right. You will never regret having your seedling rocking right out of the gate with no issues.
something like this could work for you.
https://www.amazon.ca/DL822N-Fluorescent-Lighting-Spectrum-Reflector/dp/B0721TG86M/ref=sr_1_18?gclid=Cj0KCQjwrfvsBRD7ARIsAKuDvMPvaAeOtB99wouCGNcWQA1w2MIfw1d6nbw2odNg-VyEJGlZEPRh_OEaAtptEALw_wcB&hvadid=231006700218&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001333&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=b&hvrand=4694406547764674942&hvtargid=kwd-296613547909&hydadcr=23342_10308598&keywords=t5ho+fixture&qid=1570741419&sr=8-18

Thanks for that. I try and educate myself before bothering you good folks.

As for the 40,000 lux of this unit.
How does this unit compare to a 4ft 4 tube T5HO

I know lux isn’t a good measurement for light that plants use, I’m just wondering how this compares to this light

If energy cost savings is the only real factor that differs, I’ll go with the t5.

i would suggest you get a dimmable 400w with cooltube and that way you can run it at 50% or 75% early and have the option to turn it up more if you decide you want to in the future. an air cooled hood is going to help your temps tremendously and allow you to keep your plants closer to the light and grow better buds :D

http://www.amazon.com/iPower-GLSETX400DHMAC6-400-Watt-Digital-Dimmable/dp/B005GYMM6U/ref=sr_1_6?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1345520351&sr=1-6&keywords=400w+air+hood

I understand. So if I can find a light with high kelvins and high lumens then it should be good right? I'm considering both of these. Which one do you think would work better?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0721TG86M/ref=psdc_14252961_t1_B01L6EZUBM

https://www.amazon.com/V-Shape-Linkable-Integrated-Fixture-Warehouse/dp/B07L1QJTFL/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&ref_=psdcmw_2314207011_t1_B07N2CPTJJ

Im in the US, but I bought the 2' version of this as my first grow light and so far so good https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T0CPI6A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_x7bbzbMVPDGYX

Make sure whatever light you buy goes to 6500k light temp, that is the same brightness as regular sunlight. I also suggest investing in a timer for the light of you don't already have one!

I think with the proper AC/Ventilation and good Air Tube hoods HPS would work just fine. The HIC I mentioned https://www.amazon.com/Sun-System-Emitting-Ceramic-Fixture/dp/B00HBCV8TM/ref=sr_1_5?s=lawn-garden&srs=3043915011&ie=UTF8&qid=1500201628&sr=1-5

Would be good for a 3x3

I'm using the Full Spectrum 45W growstar LED from amazon. I keep them on ~15 hours a day and ~24" above the solo-cups, seems to be enough to keep my plants growing happy. At least until they can go outside!

Hi! Im looking for my first setup. Ill have a 4x8 tent. Im about to put 2 of these in it :
https://www.amazon.ca/hydroponique-numérique-intensité-variable-réflecteur/dp/B00P8PDDEM?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1

Im leaning toward hps because my friends swears by them. But none of them are growing in tent. Im interested in leds and qb but i know nothing about them. What would you recommend for my tent ?

Oh good to know! I was looking at this as well but with it being a small space and all (about 27 inches high and 22 inches wide) I'm hoping I don't fry my plant.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H3WPVL6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A2D3OVQZ1H4YHJ&psc=1

If I had 1 or 2 beginner tips for you it’d be to pop your seeds with rockwool if you decide to grow in coco or soil. Also, if using led’s I’d highly recommend a cob setup over the more common “blurple” led’s. Growing cannabis is a science basically. You’re not gonna learn the entire process of how to grow top shelf cannabis from a reddit thread, but it does come in handy for specifics.

A couple starter lights I’d recommend

https://www.amazon.com/Niello-Spectrum-Dissipation-Hydroponics-Greenhouse/dp/B07H3WPVL6/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?keywords=led+cob+grow+light&qid=1557443369&s=gateway&sprefix=led+cob+&sr=8-6
Or
https://m.alibaba.com/product/60779137391/Meijiu-Big-discount-240w-Quantum-Board.html?s=p&spm=a2706.wap_new_search.1998817009.7.2a91284faAB2MK

That looks awfully like a manganese or zinc deficiency, which shows up first in new leaves. It's not enough to spray the leaves; you have to water the roots with a complete fertilizer that has all the micronutrients and minerals.

And spraying the leaves does nothing to increase humidity. You'd do better with a humidity tray. For spraying to work, you need to do it constantly, like they do in supermarkets with their produce.

Some leaf loss is to be expected, but that box is just not bright enough. If I were growing citrus in a closet, I'd get something like this and mount it vertically on the wall.

So I suppose that depends in your definition of best. This light off amazon is $120 - but 600 watts of hps. The "300 watt" cheap blurple lights are usually around 100-150 watts and about the same efficiency; meaning the 600 hps should yeild 4x the amount of the blurple.

Yes absolutely. I'm currently using similar fixtures with replaced bulbs for my tank. Than from Tidal Gardens also did a video on the topic. The only downside I've found is that there isn't a cover on the bottom, so I have to be careful not to splash too much or accidentally bump into the bulbs. You'll definitely want to change the bulbs because the spectrum of those grow bulbs is really good at going algae.

Last year I kept them in the furnace room in the basement with this light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T0CPI6A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0J6RBbW7N5H8Y but it always felt like I was going to visit my plant children in prison.

The window faces south, it gets a fair amount of light after the trees lose their leaves but it’s not completely unshaded. I might try that for a bit.

Thanks for the advice :)

Proper trimming and branch management...grow it upwards not outwards

Look into a DWC bucket system, they make 5 gal bucket lids that are hydroponic planters...Found on Amazon. Some even have a built in tomato / pepper cage that's about 3 ft tall.


Just need a power source for an aquarium air/bubble pump and some sun or T5 lamps. Even an Apt balcony works

As far as lights go, I have seen amazing results with these while growing coral (Aquarium). For 130 bucks an 8 lamp t5 High Output fixture that has a broad color range is a steal


here's a link to the overall DWC system (Deep Water Culture)

LINK

T5 HO Grow Light (2 FT 2 Lamps) DL822 Fluorescent Hydroponic Fixture Bloom Veg Grow Light System 6500k bulbs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009GU4QPU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6ob.Bb5SQD0NB

This is what I have and I like it a lot. Might be over kill for what you need but will serve you well. I have never dealt with bulb grow lights so I can’t say much about them. I did have two led bulbs in my early days. One was 6500 k and the other was 4000 k if I remember correctly.

Also might want to try to Facebook cp community. It’s much more active.

I got this Apollo amazon one yesterday.

20-30 minutes of assembly. Half the nuts were missing. Plug in. ZZZCH. dead.

Luckily Amazon has a pretty good return policy (they're paying for shipping and refunded immediately), though I'm not looking forward to disassembling and repackaging.

I had better luck with the[ iPower one I have.] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005HB3L6W/ref=oh_details_o05_s02_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) Since amazon refunded me, I already have ordered this as a replacement for the shitty Apollo one.

100W per sq. foot is more than adequate but if you insist you should go with LED lights that have 3W per diode. The one you have listed is a cheap chinese one that drive the diodes at .062W per diode. For light penetration that is going to make a difference 3W per diode is advised but I think it would be better for you to just put T5 bulbs running horizontally. http://www.amazon.com/Light-DL822-Fluorescent-Hydroponic-System/dp/B009GU4QPU/ref=sr_1_14?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371282871&sr=1-14&keywords=T5+2+foot

or

http://www.amazon.com/Sun-T5-Supreme-Fluorescent-21/dp/B004CMPHV4/ref=sr_1_24?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1371282871&sr=1-24&keywords=T5+2+foot

I'd recommend a T5 setup, but others may have better suggestions.

Best thing to pick up with your budget : https://www.amazon.com/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Watt-Light-Reflector/dp/B00P8PDDEM/ref=sr_1_4?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1526870071&sr=8-4&keywords=vivosun+600w

You will get 3x the yield of your leds

Sorry I'm Canadian , used to our measurements. It's 5 gallons* (~20L) I will be using this light for my grow. Are you sure that fan is okay? The other guy seemed so sure .
Light: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FGFLCXS/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_4?colid=2XHLEJUA6N9AQ&coliid=I31FONFY14DPK

Ok thanks bro. So is this in DWC?

My fault..
https://www.amazon.com/Sun-System-Emitting-Ceramic-Fixture/dp/B00HBCV8TM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482904300&sr=8-1&keywords=lec+315+grow+light

Sounds like you're looking for something like this?

I'm going to use some extra ratchet light hangers I've got laying around. They are the best thing ever.

What I'd say. Your air plants won't need more than 6-8 hours of "sun" so long as it's intense enough. The fluorescent lights won't throw enough photons at your plants; they're very bright but they're also so far away that your plants aren't truly absorbing any of the radiation they're throwing out. ("Radiation". All light is technically radiation, that's not an inherent negative.)

Buy this lamp. This isn't a good grow lamp, don't get me wrong, it'll have to be kept about 3-6" over your air plants. If you were to get something higher-wattage then you could put them higher up but you'd also have to deal with more light leaking out of your office or cubicle. This one will probably be easier on your eyes than the blurples that are very common too. This is just a very inexpensive entry point, it's not a lamp that you'd use for anything more than small air plants or succulents.

Heyo! I’m in the Northeast as well. My house also gets the worst natural light. I have been eyeing one of these T5 mini hoods from Home Depot and setting up a table in our spare room. I’ve also seen some similar T5 light set-ups that daisy chain, but I honestly haven’t decided yet.

Yeah, I need a fixture like this for another setup I've got so I think I'll see if I can take it apart to do what I want for the other system.

Looks like your standard T5HO grow light and reflector combo to me. Perhaps a Sunblaster T5HO?

Sunblaster tend to be slightly more pricey than other manufacturers so you can probably bag a cheaper bargain if you look for other T5HO grow lights online. You can also get different setups i.e. from single tube with a reflector right up to significantly larger 8 tube combos.

I use [these] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPKQPSL?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf) and am happy with the results.

Amazon. I have the ones that are just a square with the pink/blue/white lights. Works like a charm. No etoliation over an Illinois winter that won't end. I only have them on 12 hours a day.

This one may have a little better reflector but not sure it's worth the extra $10 for 3 of them: http://www.ebay.com/itm/DuroLux-DL822N-2Ft-2Lamps-T5-Grow-Lights-with-5000-Lumens-and-6500K-Sunlight-/162270037390?hash=item25c80c458e:g:lcwAAOSweXhXmJDS

Or this is same model with better reflector (like some of my DL824 fixtures) but again unless you could find same price I don't know it's worth it. https://www.amazon.com/DL822-Fluorescent-Hydroponic-Fixture-System/dp/B009GU4QPU/ref=pd_sbs_86_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=MJQ4MX9GP4X70A81JSKC

You could have one nice big light, or a couple of smaller ones. Depends on how long you are going to grow indoors, and your budget.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BFPBBD6 This fixture
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MXLSEJ8 with six of these, would result in 4800 lumens.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0721TG86M here you have 5000 lumens


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XC3LBI2 you could do this one, but the light is terrible to live in.


https://horticulturelightinggroup.com/products/hlg-65 And this would be your best option. 10.000 lumens.


​

You can get adjustable rope hangers from amazon so you can continue to adjust the height. Will be a lot easier than chains. I’ll edit with the link.
Link : iPower 2-Pack 1/8 Inch 8-Feet Long Adjustable Heavy Duty Rope Clip Hanger, Reinforced Metal Internal Gears,150lb Capacity https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018WIOEDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_BuNUAbA3Z4RHS

Hey man, appreciate all the help.

I bought that light, but I've decided to do indoor now in a 4x4 tent (4 plants).
I'm assuming this light will be no good in growing all 4 plants?

Considering HID lights now since my budget is $200 max CAD.

How does this one look:
https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Digital-Dimmable-Reflector/dp/B00P8PDDEM/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=hid+grow+light&qid=1555038856&s=gateway&sr=8-4

haha you just saved me a mistake
so i changed it to -
which is cheaper -
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HBCV8TM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A2CXIDXPR1SRQR&psc=1

here it is on amazon if you'd like to see

http://www.amazon.com/Sun-System-Emitting-Ceramic-Fixture/dp/B00HBCV8TM

When I switched mine over to artificial light, I did two hours for the first few days, then five hours for a week and then 8 hours every other day.

I also use [these.] ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019J3UPUS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_afMBDbNJK9NQE). I guess what I'm trying to say is, you're not over complicating it. I think we just care a lot. 👍

So something like this? amazon 600w hps bulb

Get one! They’re great..and then graduate up to this...can’t recommend it enough!


https://www.amazon.com/Hydrofarm-FLP44-Agrobrite-Designer-Fixture/dp/B007FGE6C0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1538566880&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=hydrofarm+designer&dpPl=1&dpID=41x5gViSbFL&ref=plSrch

Not sure how many holes are on that reflector but these rope hangers and a combination of zip ties/caribeneers/s-hooks will be an affordable solution for hanging your light. Only $9.99 for a set of 4!
https://www.amazon.com/iPower-GLROPEX2-Adjustable-Improved-Resistant/dp/B018WIOEDA

In my experience fox farm happy frog and ocean forest soil don't need anything added until week 3-4. That's about when the bottom leaves become N deficient. Maybe pick up the trio of fox farm nutes. Add in these adjustable ratchet light hangers too.

https://www.amazon.com/iPower-8-Feet-Adjustable-Hanger-Capacity/dp/B005CY100I

The 300w would probably be enough light, if not you can always daisy chain another 300w. Two 300w lights are cheaper than the one 600w and would be easier to adjust the lights to the canopy.

I'm bad with electrical things, maybe someone else can chime in on that. I just use those 6 inch clip on fans.

I have something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T0CPI6A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iclxCb9Z5QT33

Seedlings need light that is close and strong, otherwise they will become “leggy”, which basically means they are stretching towards light. If they become too leggy, they will be weak and probably non-viable.

Those are both fairly intense—he's just growing some basil on top of a small desk. I was thinking along the lines of something like [this] (https://www.amazon.com/Elaine-Dimmable-Spectrum-Adjustable-Gooseneck/dp/B07MV2GF84/ref=sr_1_8?crid=31D6CQ06S7221&keywords=indoor+grow+lights+for+plants&qid=1556727816&s=gateway&sprefix=indoor+grow+light%2Caps%2C126&sr=8-8)

But I was worried that it's too dinky/a piece of crap.
hopefully that formatted right

Ekrof on the article you talk about UFO lights and you posted a link to an 'Apollo 180W' light. You also state that 135W lights are recommended, but when I go to the 135 Apollo light link on amazon there is a section where it says "Actual Power Draw: 90 Watts" Should we consider to choose the 135 watt light based on the "Actual Power Drawn" or the wattage that is advertised on the tittle of the product? For example

As the plants grow you may want to use something like this to easily adjust the lights. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CY100I/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_78?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AXC6VLRHTOFD2

Im sure im not the only one that has thought about this.

http://www.amazon.com/EnviroGro-2Ft-Tube-Fixture-Bulbs-FLT22/dp/B0031CA3OM/ref=cm_cd_al_qh_dp_t[1]

What would it take to run two of these lights and a couple of fans. One for circulation and one for exhaust.

I have a shed, I cant really run power to it. I have no outlets outside my house. When the house was built they just didn't put any outside.

I have a decent sized shed out back I'd like to turn into a grow room.
These lights dont put out much wattage. Because of that I was thinking this maybe possible. Problem is I know nothing about Solar Energy. Thought you guys could help.

And yes, its what you think its for. Tomatoes.

If anyone is interested, here is the grow light I decided on: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007FGE6C0

I think I've finally decided to go with ViparSpectra LEDs. They get good reviews on multiple websites. They also have a model that has adjustable intensity and is programmable. I'm hoping I can have two of those synchronized in a 2x4 grow tent. Not sure if that is the right amount of light, but it seems to be.

I just use rope with a double half hitch tied to the top bar of my tent. The knots aren't hard to loosen from the short end of the rope and stay tight enough from the long end with the light on it. You can also get these or something similar on amazon

iPower GLROPE Pair of 1/8 Inch Heavy Duty Adjustable Grow Light Rope Clip Hanger w/Improved Metal Internal Gears,8-Feet Long(LONGEST EVER),150lb Capacity,Fully Locking;Tear&Rust Resistant. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005CY100I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Gf4.ybRFEZ0MA

Thank you! This was very helpful :) I ended up going with https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPKQPSL/ref=psdc_14252961_t2_B015TL6RH4 for now, I only have one lamp per shelf- do you think that's enough without supplemental natural light? I'm in zone 9b but my place has poor natural lighting and only direct, hot sunlight outside. I wanted to start without a huge investment just in case I kill everything somehow haha but plan to add more or at least 2 per shelf later on. Thank you again!

I'd recommend a simple T5 light. Here's one that's almost identical to the one in the product picture.

https://www.amazon.com/Agrobrite-FLT22-Fluorescent-Light-System/dp/B0031CA3OM/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1517789148&sr=8-4&keywords=2ft+t5

i use these http://www.amazon.ca/iPower-GLROPE-Adjustable-Ratchet-Hanger/dp/B005CY100I for my fan and light. lets you raise or lower easily and holds up to 150 lbs.

Would this work? I have to see if it would fit in my greenhouse setup though.

Agrobrite T5, 2 Foot, 2-Tube Fixture with Included Fluorescent Grow Lights https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0031CA3OM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_Oo.9wbTTKC0CZ

Microgreens don't need a ton of light. Two 2-foot T8 bulbs, 3 2-foot LED strip lights, or one of the cheaper LED panels per tray should suffice. Something like this 2-tube T5 fixture would be the high end.

These are the ones I currently have for my 4x4 that work well https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HEYCRI8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

Within the next month i think i'll be binging on these https://www.amazon.com/HydroplanetTM-Fluorescent-Included-Horticulture-Gardening/dp/B019J3UPUS/ref=sr_1_1?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1487146972&sr=1-1&keywords=t5

Try to get them in a south facing window if you can. If you do not have that, west, then east, then north. North is the worst, and you will want to avoid that if possible because they will never get direct sunlight in a north window.

The window will be the biggest difference because you can't beat the sun in terms of light.

Once they are in a good window, get a light above them if they are still stretching. I try to get daylight spectrum flourescent bulbs in as high of a wattage as I can find. 6500k, 100watt equivalent florescents do great for plants. You might find a T5 HO setup that uses the long skinny flourescent bulbs. I prefer the T5 setup because it is brighter and cleaner looking in my house than a bunch of metal cone reflectors for standard light bulbs.

Put the lights on a timer so that they are on for about the same amount of time that the sun is up. Adjust the timer once a month or so to match the changing daylight hours. Mid summer the light should be on ~16 hours a day, and mid winter just under 12 hours a day. You want to do this because plants are sensitive to seasonal day length, and will grow, flower, or be dormant depending on the amount of light they receive per day.

I like to put lights about 2 feet above plants so that I can still see the plants instead of the light fixture.

I avoid LED lights because I find the purple glow to be ugly.

Depending on the setup, I find ~25 watts of supplemental light per square foot to be adequate, but it's really hard to say how much light actually makes it on the plants...

I have a 330 watt fluorescent light about 2.5ft above a 12 square foot table in a shady west window. A ton of the fluorescent light spreads out to the sides, so it's hard to say how much light I actually supplement. The plants do fine, though.

> https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01I4NY6GS/

this is more of what im looking for. i guess the cheapest option for just a few would be to make my own. With these cobs it would be 200 true wattage correct? not 100 like led panels that are said to be 200w

This. And a fan

For a 4x4? No way man... that will barely veg 1/4 of the tent. You want something like

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CQ8ROYO/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

at minimum.

Check out

https://www.growweedeasy.com/cannabis-grow-lights

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0031CA3OM/ref=asc_df_B0031CA3OM5190008/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B0031CA3OM&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167123712426&hvpos=1o9&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16446119069533395384&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028731&hvtargid=pla-274030433488

I use this plus two grow bulbs, in a lamp. My plants get no natural light and grow fine under this and my grow bulbs. Pic of brand of bulb https://i.imgur.com/t2GJ8vo.jpg

Could you suggest a decent QB for my setup? Browsing a few on amazon but I'm having a bit of trouble telling them apart, maybe something like this? it's not listed as a quantum board but is there much of a difference?

I got mine on amazon : iPower 54W 4 Feet T5 Grow Light... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T0CPI6A?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

No regular cfls are not sufficient. This is the one I use and love Hydroplanet T5 4ft 8lamp Fluorescent Ho Bulbs Included for Indoor Horticulture Gardening T5 Grow Lights Fixtures (8 Lamp, 4ft) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019J3UPUS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fKD.Bb41YCHBJ. You can even bloom under it but you must change out the tubes to a low kelvin spectrum bulb.

If they're house plant type plants then you'll be fine but if they need full sun then they're going to start getting leggy without a serious grow light eg:

EnviroGro FLT46 4-Ft, 6-Tube Fixture, T5 Bulbs Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005H1C74O/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_9kJwub058WAYY

Probably the lighting. I'm just using a generic 45W led panel I got from Amazon.

Edit: I can't find the exact one but this one is identical. [Here.](LED Grow Light Growstar 45W Plant Lights Bulbs Panel Series Full Spectrum for Hydroponic Aquatic Indoor Plants 13" 225 LEDS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LYOL5QU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dzlMybXEAE0DM)

Try these boss.

iPower GLROPEX2 2-Pair 1/8 Inch 8-Feet Long Heavy Duty Adjustable Rope Clip Hanger (150lbs Weight Capacity) Reinforced Metal, 2 Pack, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018WIOEDA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VmLlDbMHB1X7C

I use this

50 seedlings shouldn't be overwhelming. You can use a typical T5 or T8 fixture with the right bulbs.

[This should do the trick.] (http://www.amazon.com/DL822-Fluorescent-Hydroponic-Fixture-System/dp/B009GU4QPU)
Comes with the right bulbs.
Just invest in some cord to adjust the height, those lights must stay as close as possible to your plants.

If that won't ship to Oz, any hardware/garage type store will have them.

Lola prefers this one: Growstar 45W LED Grow Light UV IR Full Spectrum LED Grow Bulb for Indoor Plants Hydroponic Greenhouse Plant Seedling Flowers (45W 225 LEDs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LYOL5QU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_zExACbJTZJ26V

The exact one i have
https://www.amazon.com/Sun-System-Emitting-Ceramic-Fixture/dp/B00HBCV8TM

Canadian?

https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Digital-Dimmable-Reflector/dp/B00P8PDDEM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?keywords=vivosun+hps&qid=1559237532&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

2-Pack T5 HO Grow Light - 1 Bulb... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPKQPSL?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It has worked so so so much better than any leds or pink and blue lights

I think the 150 and 600 are both equivalent and not actual wattage

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CY100I/

Viparspectra also make a 300w panel, that'd be much more appropriate for your setup

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B073XNB79Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_27?ie=UTF8&qid=1502767784&sr=8-27&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=viparspectra

I got this one on amazon but have only had it a week so can't attest to if it works or not. Good reviews though https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MV2GF84?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

About $50 on Amazon! It had some reviews that made me weary, but I have not had any issues.https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T0CPI6A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

No it doesnt, not yet. Its hard to tell really. All the traps are closed so I cant see the pigmentation color. However, the growth looks good. (New leaves popping from the center look good).

What area are you in? If you can grow outside in full sun, that would be a lot better. Inside, you need to simulate a dormancy period. Etc. Its doable, but excessively complicated in my mind.

Here is a good link for you to read up on dormancy:
http://www.flytrapcare.com/venus-fly-trap-dormancy


If you are truly hell bent on growing inside...You probably need one of these babies.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0031CA3OM/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1DXN92KCKEQV4

Keep it as close to the plant as possible for 12 hours a day and see how it does. Adjust as necessary. (if it looks starved for light, up the dosage).

The problem is it needs to be 3 ft and i can only find 2 ft and 4 ft fixtures. The only 3 ft fixture i can find is direct connection not plug in. Basically i need these, but 3 ft long.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPKQPSL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_EaPZBbJC1WKAB

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KZKW73S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6.OZBbG8TE3J4

Any ideas?

I do use lights, yes! My plant room faces northeast, so it's certainly not the best for most succulents. My apartment doesn't have much direct light at all, so I've had to improvise.

I have something almost exactly like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroplanet-Fluorescent-Included-Horticulture-Gardening/dp/B019J3UPUS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1496341402&sr=8-3&keywords=t5+4ft

I have it suspended from my ceiling with some pulleys. I'm actually in the process of trying to get a second lamp going as well-- but the electric bill isn't pretty because of them!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07MV2GF84?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

I'm guessing these are too weak? What recommendations do you have?