If I had it to do over again I would save a lot of time and money by avoiding automatic watering/hydroponics and just grow in dirt and hand watering. I know commercial growers who hand water so with only 6 plants it should not be a problem. I also wish that I had just gone for 1000 watts instead of the 600 that I bought.

Pay attention to temperature and ventilation. Winter is great for a first grow as you won't have to worry about it getting too hot in your grow room.

Good luck and have fun!