Welcome to the green paradise of indoor growing: Your path to magnificent plants!

Whether you're a passionate gardener with years of experience or a curious newcomer to growing plants, the world of indoor growing is full of fascinating possibilities. Growing plants in protected environments allows us to create green oases that fill our spaces with life all year round.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the deep roots of indoor growing together and help you understand the essential steps, techniques and decisions that lead to successful growing. This is not just about selling products, but more importantly about providing you with valuable information that will help you create your own green paradise.

We will cover the basics of grow boxes, proper lighting and the optimal environment for healthy growth. We'll take you through the different growing methods, whether it's traditional soil, the precise world of hydroponics or the innovative spheres of aeroponics.

We will also look at issues of watering, fertilising and proper care. Because the secret of successful growing lies not only in the choice of the right technique, but also in your understanding of the individual needs of your plants.

So, dive into this exciting adventure of indoor growing. Whether you're looking for a relaxing pastime or have developed a serious passion for growing plants, we're here to help you with useful and helpful information. Let's learn, experiment and watch our plants blossom together.

Successful indoor grow: The basic equipment for your grow

The growbox: the heart of your indoor grow

In the exciting world of indoor growing, the grow box plays a central role. It is the space in which your plants will thrive, develop and eventually flower. But choosing the right grow box is more than just choosing a container - it's a decision that affects the entire gardening experience. A grow box is essentially an enclosed space designed specifically for growing plants. Its construction is designed to create a controlled environment where factors such as light, temperature, air circulation and odour can be optimally controlled. A typical set-up includes:

• Outlets and openings: Growboxes have various openings that are used for the entry and exit of cables, hoses and ventilation systems. These openings allow the entire growbox to be equipped with the necessary devices without cables and hoses becoming a nuisance.
• Doors and access points: One or more doors provide access to the growbox to allow for planting, pruning and harvesting. These access points are often equipped with zips or special locking systems to ensure a light-tight environment.
• .
• The load-bearing capacity of grow boxes: Most grow boxes are designed to cope not only with the plants, but also with the various demands of the growing activity. The stability and load-bearing capacity of grow boxes is crucial in order to support the weight of lamps, ventilation systems and plants themselves. Many high-quality models use sturdy bars or frames that ensure the necessary stability and make it easier to hang lamps or ventilation systems. in addition, most models have waterproof shelves that catch excess water and provide additional security.

Optimal plant density in different grow tent sizes

The question of how many plants will fit in a grow box depends on several factors, including the size of the box, the type of plant, the growing method and the desired final size of the plants. Here are some guidelines for various example grow box sizes, of course there are smaller boxes and also much larger boxes:

• 60x60cm: Usually 1 to 4 small plants or 1 to 3 medium-sized plants can thrive in a box of this size. This size is well suited for compact plants such as herbs or smaller vegetables.
• 80x80cm: There is usually room for 3 to 9 plants here, depending on the desired final size. This size allows for a greater variety of plants and is well suited for growing herbs, vegetables or small flowering plants.
• 100x100cm: In a box of this size, 9 to 16 plants can be grown, depending on the plant type and growing method. This provides more space for growing larger plants or a larger number of smaller plants.
• 120x120cm: This can accommodate 9 to 25 plants, depending on the size and growing stage of the plants. This size allows for a greater variety of plants or the growth of larger plants.
• 150x150cm: This larger box can usually accommodate 12 to 36 plants, depending on the plant size and growing method. It offers plenty of space for different plants and allows for a larger harvest.

The correct lighting for your grow

The choice of the correct lighting is crucial in indoor growing as it affects the photosynthesis and growth of your plants. One traditional method that is still heavily used is the use of sodium vapour lamps (HPS). These oldschool lamps have proven to be a reliable light source for plants and offer specific benefits at different stages of growth.

Sodium vapour lamps (HPS): The oldschool method

Sodium vapour lamps are known for their characteristic orange light. This light spectrum contains mainly yellow and red light, which is crucial for plant growth in the flowering phase. HPS lamps produce a high light intensity that favours the growth of large and dense flowers.

Within the HPS category, there are different types of lamps optimised for the growing and flowering phases. Here are the main differences between growth and flowering lamps:

Growth lamps (metal halide lamps, MH): These lamps produce a bluish light spectrum suitable for vegetative growth and the development of leaves and stems. The bluish light promotes short internode spacing and vigorous growth.

Flowering lamps (sodium vapour lamps, HPS): The flowering lamps produce the orange light spectrum mentioned above, which is crucial for the flowering phase. This light promotes the formation of flowers and the development of fruits.

The choice between grow and bloom lights depends on the stage your plants are in. However, if you combine grow and bloom lights in a certain order, you can get the best of both worlds and optimally support your plants throughout the entire growth cycle.

Choosing the right wattage for your sodium lamp is crucial to ensure that your plants receive the optimal light for growth. The wattage of the lamp should be appropriate for the size of your grow box to ensure even illumination and effective coverage. Here are some recommendations for sodium lamp wattage based on various growbox sizes:

• 60x60cm: A 150 watt sodium lamp is ideal for this compact box size. The 150 watt lamp provides sufficient light intensity to supply the plants in this small area.
• 80x80cm: A sodium vapour lamp with 250 watts is recommended for a grow box of this size. This ensures better illumination and support for plant growth.
• 100x100cm: Here, a sodium vapour lamp with 400 watts is optimal. This power ensures sufficient light distribution and covers the entire surface evenly.
• 120x120cm: A sodium vapour lamp with 600 watts is ideal for this size. With this power, every corner of the grow box is supplied with sufficient light.
• 150x150cm: For a larger box size like this, a sodium vapour lamp with 1000 watts is recommended. The higher output ensures even and intensive illumination over the entire surface.

Choosing the right lamp wattage is essential to ensure that your plants get the light they need for healthy growth. Adequate output not only ensures the development of strong stems and lush foliage, but also influences the quality and quantity of flower formation. Remember that efficient ventilation and temperature control are also important, especially if you are using higher wattage bulbs.

Modern LED plant lamps: A look into the future of indoor growing

With advances in technology, indoor grow lighting has evolved greatly. LED plant lights have become increasingly popular in recent years and offer a modern alternative to traditional sodium lamps. Their advanced features and adaptability make them a preferred choice for many indoor gardeners.

LED plant lamps offer the advantage of being able to precisely control these light spectra. By adjusting the light composition for each growth phase, LED plant lamps can optimise indoor growth, flowering and fruiting.

The transition from sodium lamps to LED plant lamps marks a major step towards efficiency, control and adaptability in indoor growing. LED plant lamps provide significantly better light to plants, this and the ability to tailor the light spectrum to the exact needs of your plants allows for a higher yield rate and improved quality of the crop.

Under the influence of a sodium vapour lamp (#HPS), large and well-developed fruits grow, but the individual internodes (i.e. the parts of a shoot axis between two nodes) in the plants are very far apart. Under the influence of an LED, these form in very short intervals, which leads to the plants growing much more compactly. As a result, they can form more fruit/flower attachments.

Selecting the right lamp wattage is important to ensure that your plants get the light they need to grow healthy and strong. LED plant lamps allow you to tailor the light spectrum to the needs of your plants at different stages of growth. Remember that LED lamps generally produce less heat than traditional sodium lamps, which can lead to better temperature control in your grow room.

Effective exhaust air for your grow box: components and tasks

Exhaust air is an indispensable part of successful indoor growing. It helps regulate air circulation and air quality in the grow box by removing excess moisture, heat and unwanted odours. An effective exhaust system consists of several components that work in harmony to create an optimal environment for your plants.

The components of an extract air set:

• Pipe fan: The pipe fan is the heart of the exhaust air system. It generates an air flow that draws the used air out of the grow box and transports it to the outside. The power of the fan should be adapted to the size of your grow box and the number of plants.
• Activated carbon filter: The activated carbon filter is responsible for filtering unpleasant odours from the exhaust air. This is particularly important to prevent the characteristic scent of plants from escaping into the environment. The filter contains activated carbon, which binds and neutralises odour molecules.
• Exhaust air hose: The exhaust air hose connects the tube fan with the activated carbon filter and guides the cleaned exhaust air out of the grow box to the outside. The diameter of the hose should correspond to that of the fan and the filter in order to ensure an unhindered air flow.

The tasks of the exhaust air system:

• Humidity control: By removing humid air from the grow box, the exhaust system helps reduce the risk of mould and disease. Adequate air circulation regulates humidity and creates an optimal climate.
• Heat dissipation: The lighting systems and other equipment in the grow box generate heat. The exhaust system draws off this warm air and prevents the plants from overheating.
• Odour control: The activated carbon filter in the exhaust system is a true odour fighter. It removes unwanted odours that can occur when growing plants and ensures discretion.
• Air exchange: Constant air exchange is crucial to supply the plants with fresh carbon dioxide and to remove stale air. This optimises photosynthesis and promotes healthy growth.

The correct sizing and installation of an exhaust system is crucial to ensure the functionality and efficiency of your grow box. A well-designed exhaust system will provide an optimal climate, efficient heat dissipation and a discreet environment in which your plants can thrive.

The right fan size based on lighting type and location

Selecting the right size fan for your exhaust system is crucial to ensure that the air circulation in your grow box is optimally regulated. Choosing the right fan depends on several factors, including the type of lighting and the location of your grow box. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the appropriate fan size:

It is important to note that the calculated formula for fan capacity does not always apply perfectly to grow boxes up to 4m² in size. It is often helpful to follow the recommendations above to ensure the best possible fan performance. Adequate air circulation and temperature control are crucial for the growth and health of your plants.

EC motor tube fan for noise-reduced operation

The EC motor, also called an electronically commutated motor, is an innovative solution for controlling fan power quietly and precisely. Compared to conventional AC motors, the EC motor allows infinitely variable speed control. This means that you can dim down a tube fan with a high output, for example 700 m³ per hour, to less than 50% power. This quiet operation is particularly advantageous in small grow boxes, where strong air movement can often lead to disturbing noise.

The ability to dim down the EC motor tube fan allows you to set the airflow to the minimum required without sacrificing efficiency and performance. This approach allows for an optimal adaptation to the needs of your plants and at the same time ensures a significant reduction of the noise level. This is especially important if you are operating the grow in a residential area or if you place particular emphasis on a quiet environment.

Choosing a tube fan with an EC motor is a smart solution to ensure both efficient ventilation and a quiet grow box environment. With this technology, you can get the best of both worlds and grow your indoor grow in a pleasant and quiet atmosphere.

Active supply air in the grow box: When is it really necessary?

The question of active supply air in your grow box is often a topic of concern for indoor gardeners. In most cases, however, an additional supply air fan is not necessary and the exhaust air fan alone does its job effectively. Here are some important aspects to consider when deciding whether or not to use active supply air:

In the vast majority of cases, it is sufficient to use only one exhaust fan to create the necessary negative pressure and draw in fresh air. The combination of exhaust air and passive air exchange meets the needs of the plants and ensures sufficient air circulation.

Conclusion on exhaust air:

The decision for active supply air depends on the individual conditions of your grow room. In most scenarios, a well adjusted exhaust fan is sufficient to provide the necessary air circulation and negative pressure. It is advisable to check the specific conditions of your grow and whether an active air supply is actually necessary to achieve optimal results.

Effective air circulation in the grow box: Simulated wind for optimal plant growth

Clip and pedestal fans for recirculation:

Clip and stand fans are two common options to ensure even air circulation in the grow box. These fans create a gentle airflow that moves the plants easily. Here are some advantages of recirculating air in the grow box:

Conclusion on circulating air:

The simulation of wind through circulating air is a critical factor for successful plant growth in the grow box. It promotes stronger plants, optimal climate and healthy development. Choosing clip or stand fans that match the size of your grow box can help to get the best results from your indoor grow.

Light and air circulation control with timers: Efficient control for your grow

The precise control of light and air circulation is a crucial factor for a successful indoor grow. This is where timers and smart controllers come into play to create an optimal environment for your plants. In this section, you'll learn how to perfect light and air management with timers, as well as how advanced controllers can help you control the climate in your grow box.

Light control with timers:

Timers are indispensable tools for controlling the light in your grow box and simulating the natural light cycle. The key is to set the timers to turn the light on and off according to the needs of the plants. This mimics the natural lighting conditions and helps to promote healthy plant growth.

Recirculation control with timers:

Timers can also be used to control the recirculation fans. They allow the airflow in the grow box to be varied at regular intervals, which promotes the simulation of wind while reducing the risk of over-ventilation.

Control units for the exhaust air:

For more advanced control options, control units are available that not only control the exhaust air but can also monitor various parameters such as humidity, temperature and CO2. These intelligent systems adjust the speed of the fans for supply and exhaust air to maintain an optimal climate.

Conclusion on control:

Controlling light and air circulation is crucial for your plants to thrive. Timers are simple tools to regulate the light cycle and recirculation. Advanced controllers provide additional control over the climate in the grow box and allow precise adjustment of the exhaust air output. Choosing the right control system depends on your level of knowledge and the needs of your grow.

Diversity of planting substrates: the basis for successful plant growth

The choice of the right planting substrate is a crucial step for successful indoor growing. Different plants require different nutrients and conditions, so it is important to choose the substrate carefully. Here we take a look at the different planting substrates, their properties and when they are best used.

Lightly pre-fertilised substrates for seedlings and cuttings:

• Growing soils: These soils are lightly pre-fertilised and perfect for starting seedlings and cuttings. They provide the right amount of nutrients to support tender growth without over-fertilising the young plants.
• Peat source pots: These small pots are filled with peat-based soil and facilitate seed germination. They provide an optimal environment for root development and can later be transplanted directly into larger pots or outdoors.
• Mineral wool blocks and expanded clay: These hydroponic substrates provide a sterile and nutrient-poor environment for seed germination or rooting cuttings.
• Cocos substrates: Coconut substrates are a popular alternative to conventional soil. They are light, well aerated and offer optimal water retention. Cocos substrates can be used for seedlings as well as for established plants.

Heavily pre-fertilised soils for flowering plants:

Heavily pre-fertilised soils are substrates enriched with a rich mixture of nutrients that provide flowering plants with sufficient nutrients in the first 3-8 weeks. This enables lush flowering and minimises the need for additional fertilising.

Peat-based soils and peat-free alternatives:

• Peat-based soils: Traditional potting soils often contain peat, which improves the structure and water-holding capacity of the substrate. However, peat extraction is controversial as it can have a negative impact on ecosystems.
• Peat-free alternatives: More and more gardeners are opting for peat-free substrates made from sustainable materials such as coconut fibre, wood fibre or compost. These substrates are environmentally friendly and still offer good properties for plant growth.

Conclusion on the substrates:

The variety of planting substrates makes it possible to create the best conditions for different plants and growth phases. Choosing the right substrate should be based on the individual requirements of your plants to ensure healthy growth and abundant harvests.

Plant pots for indoor grow: choose size and number strategically

Choosing the right plant pots is a crucial step for successful plant growth in your grow box. Both the size and the number of plant pots play a role in creating the optimal space for your plants and meeting their needs. Here's how to choose the best plant pots for your grow box.

Number of plant pots and grow box size:

The number of plant pots depends strongly on the size of your grow box. For example, in an 80x80 cm² grow box you can optimally use 9 plant pots of the size 20x20cm 5.7L. For larger grow boxes, you can adjust this rule accordingly and use larger plant pots.

Advantage of square plant pots: Square plant pots have some advantages in grow boxes compared to round pots. The footprint of these square pots is defined by the size specification. This means that you can make the best use of the available space in your grow box. Square pots can be placed close together, which allows for efficient use of space and higher plant density.

Common plant pots and their sizes:

• 7x7cm (0,25L): Ideal for seedlings and young plants in the early stages.
• 11x11cm (1L): Well suited for cuttings and small plants.
• 15x15cm (3,15L): A good choice for medium-sized plants in the growth phase.
• 20x20cm (5,7L): Suitable for plants in the flowering phase or larger plants in the growing phase.
• 24x24cm (11L): Perfect for large plants throughout the growing period.
• 30x30cm (18L): Optimal for particularly large plants or mother plants.

Conclusion on the pots:

The size and number of plant pots are crucial factors for the success of your indoor grow. Consider the size of your grow box and the developmental stages of your plants to choose the best plant pots. Square pots offer the advantage of efficient use of space. By choosing the right plant pots, you create an optimal environment for healthy plant growth and a bountiful harvest.

Nutrients for healthy growth: Fertiliser

Plants need different nutrients during their life cycle. Adding fertiliser is important during the growing and flowering phases. Use specific fertiliser for each phase to ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need.

Choosing the right grow fertiliser: understanding NPK values and manufacturers

The question of the best grow fertiliser is not easy to answer, as there is no universal answer. Choosing the right fertiliser depends on several factors, including the type of plants, growing method, growth stage and personal preferences. A crucial factor in assessing fertilisers is understanding NPK values and what they mean.

NPK values and their significance

NPK stands for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), the three main nutrients that plants need. The NPK values on fertiliser packages indicate the ratio of these nutrients in the product. For example, a fertiliser with a ratio of 10-5-5 would contain 10% nitrogen, 5% phosphorus and 5% potassium.

• Nitrogen (N) promotes leaf growth and the formation of chlorophyll.
• Phosphorus (P) supports root development, flower formation and fruiting.
• Potassium (K) contributes to the general health of the plant, stress resistance and strengthening of the cell structure.

The choice of NPK ratios depends on the respective cultivation phase. During the growth phase, plants need more nitrogen, while higher phosphorus and potassium levels are preferred during the flowering phase.

Different manufacturers and their fertilisers

There are a variety of manufacturers offering high quality grow fertilisers. Here are some well-known names:

• Atami: Known for their professional fertiliser lines such as "B'cuzz" with different NPK ratios for different phases.
• Advanced Hydroponics: Offers a wide range of fertilisers for hydroponics and soil, such as the "Jungle Juice" series.
• Biobizz: Known for their organic fertiliser line such as "Bio-Grow" and "Bio-Bloom".
• Canna: Offers a variety of fertilisers such as "Canna Terra", "Canna Coco" and "Canna Aqua".
• DutchPro: Known for their series of fertilisers adapted to different growth phases.
• Hesi: Offers mineral fertilisers with a special focus on optimal nutrient ratios.
• Terra Aquatica (GHE): Offers fertilisers for different growing methods and focuses on an environmentally friendly approach.

The choice of manufacturer depends on your personal preferences, the type of plants you grow and the method of cultivation. It is advisable to research the different fertiliser lines, compare nutrient compositions and possibly try smaller amounts to find the best fertiliser for your needs.

Overall, choosing the best grow fertiliser is an individual decision based on your knowledge of your plants' needs, your growing method, and the fertiliser options available.

Practical accessories for a smooth grow: tools and optional extras

In addition to the essentials for a successful indoor grow, there are a number of practical accessories that can make the process even smoother and help you create optimal conditions for your plants. Here are some essential tools and optional accessories that can take your grow to the next level.

Indispensable accessories:

• Watering can: A watering can with a fine spray is essential for the correct watering of your plants. It enables an even distribution of water.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for pruning and harvesting your plants. They enable precise cuts and thus ensure healthy growth.
• Thermo-Hygrometer: This device measures temperature and humidity in your grow box. Constant monitoring of these parameters is important to ensure the optimal climate.
• Raising or germination box: A small rearing or germination box, also called an indoor greenhouse, creates the ideal environment for empfiHPSiche seedlings. It protects them from external influences and promotes healthy growth.
• Height-adjustable lamp suspensions: These make it possible to adjust the height of the plant lamps depending on the growth phase to ensure the optimal light spectrum.

Optional accessories:

• Support nets: Support nets help to prop up the plants during the flowering phase and promote an even distribution of flowers.
• Drying nets: Drying nets are practical for hanging the harvested flowers during the drying process and drying them evenly.
• Heating mats and heating registers: These can help raise root temperatures and promote plant growth in colder environments.
• EC and pH meters: These devices allow accurate measurement of the EC value (electrical conductivity) and the pH value of the nutrient water to ensure that the plants are receiving the correct nutrients.

Conclusion on accessories:

The right accessories make the difference between a good and a great grow. Essential tools such as a watering can and scissors are essential to keep your plants growing at their best. Optional accessories can help you optimise the growth, harvest and health of your plants. Choose the accessories that best suit your individual grow to achieve the best results.

With this comprehensive check-up, you'll be able to find the right accessories for your grow.

With this comprehensive checklist, you'll be well prepared to start your own successful indoor grow in your grow box. Always remember that patience and a love for plant care will lead to the best results.

Different indoor growing methods: soil, hydroponics and aeroponics

Now that we've covered the basics for successful indoor growing, let's take a look at some different growing methods you can use in your grow box. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice will depend on your goals, abilities and preferences.

Growing on soil: Traditional and beginner-friendly

Cultivation in soil is the most traditional method and ideal for beginners. The plants are grown in a substrate of soil. This substrate provides a stable nutrient base and allows beginners some forgiveness. The soil retains moisture and nutrients, which temporarily supports plants when you cannot be present all the time. This method requires less technical knowledge, but is less precise in nutrient supply.

This method requires less technical knowledge, but is less precise in nutrient supply.

Hydroponics: Faster Growth, More Control

Hydroponics, also known as water culture, refers to growing without soil, where the roots thrive directly in a nutrient solution and are held by an inert substrate such as expanded clay. Here, nutrients are tightly controlled and delivered directly to the plants, which can lead to faster growth and higher yields. However, this method requires a deeper understanding of nutrient needs and close monitoring of pH and EC (electrical conductivity) levels. Hydroponics offers more control, but can be a little more challenging for beginners.

Hydroponics and aeroponics: towards innovation

In hydroponic systems such as Deep Water Culture (DWC) or Ebb and Flow, the plants are kept in an airtight container with a nutrient solution. This method allows even more precise control of the environment and nutrient supply. Equally exciting is aeroponics, where the plants are suspended in the air and surrounded by a fine spray of nutrients. These systems are on the rise as they allow for rapid growth and maximum nutrient uptake. However, they are also more complex to set up and maintain and require advanced skills.

Level of difficulty and learning curve

The degree of difficulty of the different cultivation methods varies. Growing in soil is the easiest for beginners as it requires less technical knowledge. Hydroponics offers more control but requires more intensive monitoring of plant needs. Hydroponic and aeroponic systems are more challenging due to their complex nature and require a steeper learning curve. However, with enough research, patience and practice, you can delve into any of these methods and steadily improve your skills.

Whatever method you choose, remember that every indoor grow is a unique journey. Experiment, learn from your experiences and have fun watching your plants thrive - whether in soil, hydroponics or aeroponics.

How do I grow properly? Optimal conditions and care

The right approach to growing depends on the method chosen, be it soil, hydroponics or aeroponics. But there are some gruHPSeging factors that need to be taken into account with any method in order to grow successfully.

Optimal temperature and humidity for growing

The ideal temperature for plant growth varies depending on the growth phase. In the growth phase, most plants prefer temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, while slightly cooler temperatures of 18°C to 24°C are ideal in the flowering phase. Humidity should be around 70-80% when growing, around 50-70% in the growth phase and slightly lowered to 40-60% in the flowering phase to minimise the risk of mould.

Duration of a complete grow

The total duration of a complete grow depends on the plant species, the method chosen and the individual conditions. As a rule, it takes about 3 to 5 months from seed to harvest, depending on the plant species and growth phase.

Irrigation and fertilisation

With regard to watering, always keep the soil or substrate slightly moist. However, avoid standing water to prevent root rot. The frequency of watering varies depending on the method and the environment - usually every few days.

For fertilisation, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. In the growth phase plants need more nitrogen, while in the flowering phase more phosphorus and potassium are required. Be careful to avoid overfertilising, as this can burn the roots.

Individual cultivation methods and care

In terms of the different methods of growing, be it on soil, hydroponics or aeroponics, each method requires its own specific care and attention. Growing instructions on soil are often easier for beginners, while hydroponics and aeroponics require more precise monitoring of nutrients. It is important to measure the correct parameters, such as pH and EC levels in hydroponics. The perfect pH value is around pH 6 (5.8 - 6.2), here the plant roots can optimally absorb most nutrients. The optimum EC value varies with the different plant stages and cultivation methods, a rough guideline is an increasing EC value with growing plants. Small plants in the first week need an EC value of 0.5-0.8, this value can then be increased by 0.1-0.2 every week up to a value of 2.2 in the 6th week of cultivation. Depending on the method chosen, it is advisable to do extensive research and possibly start with small experiments to find the best approach for your plants and your situation.

Whichever method you choose, a love of plant care, patience and a constant willingness to learn will help you grow successfully and get your plants to flower.