I need help to get started

I am new to this site and I need some advice. I want to get started growing my own supply. We have a local store that sells the equipment and I went there today and priced a few things. He is trying to sell me a Lumatek 1000 watt system that goes both MH and HPS which is what I want after exhaustive research on the matter. I have been to HTG's site to check their prices against his and was suprised to find that there was only a $90 difference. I was wondering if I couldn't go with a Digital Greenhouse system vs the Lumatek because the cost is $250 less. Also I was told by him that the 1000 watt system was the only way to go because it could only grow a 7'x5'x5' area. I wanted to go with a 600 watt system because it is cheaper and will use less electricity. What do you all think?:hump:
 

TVMASDL

Active Member
It really depends on how many plants you want to grow, and how big of a space you're going to be growing in.

More info? :hump:
 

stumps

Well-Known Member
If you doing for your self. The 600w would do fine. It's the best light for power use vs. light output. I get by with a 400w mh/hps. yeild about a qp every harvest. Some day soon I'll get a 600w hps and use the 400w for mh only.
 
I currently have 9 "ladies" I hope growing on my back porch outside. They are getting to be about 9" tall and starting to stink a bit. I live in a condo and am afraid my neigbor will see them that's why I am thinking of investing in some indoor equip. I just want to be sure to buy something that is tried and true and not having problems. Any suggestions?
 
I currently have 9 plants growing outdoors that are in a range from 7" to 9" and starting to smell strong. This isn't my first time growing but will be my first time indoors. I need to know what brand of equip is best, what wattage is best, environments etc. Outdoor growth is a different ballgame, you just let them go, fertilize, water and bob's your uncle in a few months you get happy.
 

stumps

Well-Known Member
HTG has been good by me. you'll find beter prices on line then at most shops. Don't forget about venting and fresh air.
 

TVMASDL

Active Member
Go for the 600W for sure.

The biggest factor in the switch from indoor to outdoor is making sure you vent properly. Make sure you have fresh air coming in and stale air going out.

I'd invest in some mylar too, and a temp/humidity gauge.
 
I want to get started growing my own supply. We have a local store that sells the equipment and I went there today and priced a few things. He is trying to sell me a Lumatek 1000 watt system that goes both MH and HPS which is what I want after exhaustive research on the matter. I have been to HTG's site to check their prices against his and was suprised to find that there was only a $90 difference. I was wondering if I couldn't go with a Digital Greenhouse system vs the Lumatek because the cost is $250 less. Also I was told by him that the 1000 watt system was the only way to go because it could only grow a 7'x5'x5' area. I wanted to go with a 600 watt system because it is cheaper and will use less electricity. What do you all think?
 

StreetRider

Active Member
HTGsupply.

600 watts lights with digital ballast. Most bang for your buck. Easier to use then 1000W. Less heat more light per penny. And you can run 2 for almost the same electricity have a lot more light and heat that you can deal with with a 6 " inline fan.

7'X7' is to big for 1 1K light . 1K = 4'X4' / 600W = 3'x3'.

For your area you could run two 600 watt lamps on light movers and have a hell of a grow.

Good luck.
 
I was looking at getting a CAN fan/filter system to keep the smell down to a minimum but do I go 4", 6", 8"? Should I get a tent or just wall in an area? I am going to do this in my basement which is carpeted but I can pull it up. Growing outside is so easy, I never realized that bringing it indoors was going to be so technical. I have been doing it outside for years with no problem except the sight factor.
 

TVMASDL

Active Member
A 6" fan is probably decent.

Walling in an area would probably be cheaper, but I don't know how much those tents go for these days. Or if money is even a factor for you. :hump:
 
I hate to sound like a dumbs*** but light movers? I think you mean something like track lighting, is that right? Would you then put the 6" inline between the lights? Man I appreciate everyone's help on this really. I just never realized indoors was so involved. How many plants can grow in a 3' by 3' area? Is that 3'x3' per 600 w light? Sorry for all the ????
 
I realize that most people don't want to give away their secrets that work really well, but I REALLY do need help getting the right equipment the first time. Money is tight and I want to do this right and get the best results for my buck. I need help with which seeds are best, where to get them, what is the best light system, filter and fan system, fertilizer's be that natural or chemical, do I need an oscillating fan along with the inline that will be keeping the heat off the lamps or at least I presume that is what it is for. How long do I leave them under the MH before changing bulbs to HPS? What types of problems can I expect and how do I get past them or keep them from happening altogether? I am looking so forward to doing this that it's hard waiting for answers before diving right in and spending a ton of money on junk. Any help is great and all that you have posted is helping already. Thank you to everyone so far.
 
I'm bummed, can't seem to get anyone to take the time to really help me. I guess I'll just have to buy a book and take my chances on what brands of equipment to buy. Thanks everyone who did help.
 

stumps

Well-Known Member
There are no secrets to growing mj. just many ways to do it. for about 40.00 a month you can keep your self in smoke.
 
Stumps, I have been following a lot of other journals and although your right there are no secrets, there are tips from other people's fortunes or mistakes that can be learned ahead of time to insure a more pleasurable experience. Thanks though!
 
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