A 400w wouldn't be overkill if you've got more than 6 sq. ft. of surface area. In a 2' x 2' area...maybe. You're going to need to be more careful with the light height and ventilation. It's technically true that you can never have too much light...but if your light is too close and your temp goes up, that's bad. Technically, warm air holds more humidity...but with a lamp, extra degrees can dry up your plants, which is hard on seedlings and young plants. If you know you can ventilate adequately and do a good job cooling, you're better off with a bigger light. But I can personally couch for using a 250w in an area of around 2' x 2', or even a little bigger. It will do a great job.

A lot simply depends on how much grow area you've got. If you've got about a 30" x 30" area or less, a 250w will do a good job and (probably) be less of a hassle. I know that some people will disagree...but they're experienced in grows in their areas and know how to deal with extra heat and stress from more light. And, just my opinion here, but...a 30" x 30" area will give you 4 very nice sized plants and a very nice yield. If it's your first grow, or even the first grow in a new area, you might be better off starting a little smaller and working your way through the problems that inevitably crop up. It's not like you'll ever have a problem selling a 250w grow light for 80% of what you paid! :thumbsup:
Roughrider Reviewed by Roughrider on . Building a grow cabinet. Here's the plan thus far. I'm going to use hardboard/ 1/4" plywood to make a 2x2x4' grow cabinet, the inner lining will be reflective mylar or it's equivalent. I'll be using a computer surge protector, which will be housed inside the unit, the only electrical cord coming from the cabinet itself will come from this. My only problems are circulation (I was thinking 120mm computer fans, one side blowing in, the other blowing out, with a carbon air filter on both ends, but I don't know how Rating: 5