Criticism wanted - Noobs first work log

[Mr. Clandestine]

I was looking rather for a ventilation method for the grow box itself to circulate fresh air.

I see, my mistake. I've never built inside a confined space, so I'm not the best person to lend many thoughts on ventilation. I've heard some good things from people making active intakes & exhausts with computer and similar sized fans, but I believe most of those were CFL grows. You might think about hooking an inline fan up to exhaust air out of the box, and into a carbon filter. If you're not using an air-cooled hood or a cooltube, you'll need to replace the air pretty frequently to keep the temps down. A good rule of thumb for a lot of first grows is to spend equally as much money on ventilation as you would on lighting. Makes things much easier.

What's the best "local" place to get mylar or a similar material, HD, Lowes, Wal-Mart etc. etc

Rolls of mylar can be ordered from many respectable sources online and from some hydro shops. You can pick up packs of those emergency blankets from HD, Walmart, etc., which are more reflective than than foil, and are less apt to get shredded so quickly. If you can construct a sturdy enough wall, flat white paint is actually one of the best reflective materials available to you.

I see alot of talk about Soilless Mixes being better for first timers so I'm researching for a good mix. Suggestions?

I don't know if soilless will necessarily be better for someone starting out. A quality soil mix, luckily, is something that you can put together inexpensively, and by yourself. I've heard great things about Foxfarm soil, Promix, and similar others. Not too many negative opinions, besides the cost. I think the main mix of FF is humus, loam, and peat... along with some good organic amendments, like bone meal, guanos, and worm castings. Those are good ingredients to have in any soil, so that can be a basis if you're wanting to make your own. If you go this route, it might be a good idea to add at least 30% perlite to the mix. More if you feel inclined.

My journey has just began!

And may it continue for many years to come! It's a hobby that definitely has its merits and rewards. Take care. :jointsmile: