1. I germinate seeds in 16 oz plastic cups. (don't use clear cups) Two cups, actually! I take a cup and cut the bottom out, plus I cut up the side ALL the way. Then, I put that cup inside another cup with holes in the bottom for good drainage. A small pot like this, makes it easier to maintain the correct moisture level. No nutes first 1-2 weeks. When the roots start growing out of the bottom drain holes?...time to transplant into 6 inch pots. ( it's EASY and stress-free to slide the inner-cup out of the outside cup for transplant) Repeat, into 8 inch pots, when roots grow out the drain holes. This creates a very compact root system. This usually all occurs during the first 30 veg cycle days. 18/6, 20/4 or 24/0 all seem to work well: growers choice...:thumbsup: (20-30% perlite added)

2. I usually switch to 12/12 flowering cycle after 30 days, or sooner if female pre-flowers show. Once the plants show their sex; I transplant into 10 inch pots for flowering/harvest and toss the males..

3. The veg cycle is about growing strong/compact root systems. IMO. If you FIM or trim during veg cycle?... allow extra time for the plants to heal.

4. The main problem with starting plants in large containers?...you never know what the root system is doing???...and you have moisture control problems and the soil gets 'tired' and PH goes all to hell.

5. I hope somebody reads all this....it required too much thinking...:stoned:
Dutch Pimp Reviewed by Dutch Pimp on . First time Soil Folks, My previous 2 grows have been Hydro with great success. I am going to try soil this time. In a 5 gallon bucket I have filled it a little more than 3/4 with Promix BX. It has all the medium necessary except nutrients. I bought some blood meal for Nitrogen. I just sprouted a Great White Shark bean and it looks good so far. I am uncertain as to how to apply the blood meal and when to start. Directions state to sprinkle it on top and water so I suppose that would be what to do but how Rating: 5