If you're using a T5 **HO**, you need to back the light off to at least 10". They get way too hot. I use them too. As your plants get older, you may want to back it off to 12".

Remove the heat on the bottom - not needed. Get a thermometer and place it on a pot or something the same height as your plants. The temp should not get hotter than 80 deg. under the light with the plants. If it's still too hot, use a fan blowing gently on them from several feet away (if possible). This will also give you strong stems. Ditch the distilled water and use fresh (aeriated) tap water and adjust the ph to 6 - 6.5. (buy a wide range aquarium ph tester kit). Next time you plant seedlings, use a seedling soil with no nutes, or put some coconut fiber or moss into your Ocean Forest to dilute it down. (which is what I've just done and the little suckers are going gangbusters...did about 1/2 coco and 1/2 OF)

If you're still having trouble with the seeds popping, ditch the germinator. Put the seeds in tiny labeled containers with a little water in them (I use dixie cups) until the seeds sink or no longer than 12 hours. Put them in the wet soil in the pot 1/2 inch or less down, facing sideways (not top or bottom down - the plant will right itself), and leave them alone. No covers, no warmers, nothin fancy. No more water other than a light misting if the soil appears dry. They will be up in 1-3 days.

Good luck to you! Getting started is the hardest part. I totally baked my first set of seeds - killed them quite completely. But once you're through your first grow, you'll be fine.
giggletwig Reviewed by giggletwig on . new to growing (personal use) hey guys. im a new member to these forums as i am also new to growing my own personal weed. i am a medical user so here goes. about a mth ago i recieved my seeds from nirvana they are "aurora indica" seeds thier plain seeds they are not feminised or auto flowering. i bought a tent from virtual sun,for lights i have a Pioneer Jr. T5 High Output 2' x 8 Fluorescent Fixture, i also have a heat pad underneath which is supposed to help with warmth can raise temp about 20 degrees. i use distilled Rating: 5