One of the things that I found difficult to determine was what hardware would be necessary for this project. I noticed many people posted grow reports which started out with some of what they started out with, but I didn't find one that was complete. That could be because many people, like me, don't know about everything they will need to get started. My first attempt, which I thought was complete at first, turned out to be missing some key items. I would imagine I still don't know some of what I'm missing yet. Hopefully, someone will chime in and fill in any missing parts, before my next trip to the store.

I have learned about some of the basics, such as lights, pots, thermometers, and fans. However, I still have yet to come up with what I will need for nutrients. I did pick up some nutrients, but I'm not sure if what I have is all that I will require. I still have some time, since I can not start my seedlings just yet. Speaking of seeds, I plan to start with bag seed. This is to get some practice, before I try with seeds that cost me money.

The other thing that puzzled me was the lighting. Recently, there was a posting about fluorescent lighting for the flowering stage, specifically T5 lights. The thread seemed logical, but then there was some existing members that tried debunking the intent of the thread. So, I went with the popular High Pressure Sodium (HPS) lamps. My outlay so far (not counting the money spent for seeds) is about $1000 (US).

Anyway, on with the list. Here's a list of hardware from my first shopping trip ....
  • HyrdoHut
  • Vortex Exhaust Fan (400)
  • Garden of Ease (aeroponic planter for 4 plants)
  • HPS Light Kit (Gavita 600W bulb, w/built-in reflector, along with a Megalux reflector)
  • Lumatek Ballast
  • Digital Thermometer (w/humidity levels and high/low memory)
  • Timer (dual outlet)
  • Elf Carbon Filter (for HydroHut)
  • 4 Clamps (for vent hose, exhaust fan, & carbon filter)
  • Rapid Rooter Tray
  • 2 - 10' chains (for light)
  • Pack of S-hooks (for raising and lowering light)
  • Pack of Cable Ties
  • 4" venting hose (like what would be used for dryer vents)
In addition to the hardware, I picked up the following nutrients & solutions (all are from the General Hydroponics (GH) line, unless noted) -
  • FloraGro (1 pint)
  • FloraBloom (1 pint)
  • FloraMicro (1 pint)
  • pH Down (1 quart)
  • SUPERthrive (not GH, not sure who the manufacturer is)
  • pH Tester
My next trip's shopping list contains the following items (so far) -
  • Eye Dropper (for testing pH)
  • Measuring Cup or Measuring Spoons (for nutrients)
  • Disposable Rubber Gloves (to protect me and the plants)
  • Tray Cover (for Rapid Rooter)
  • Seedling Warming Pad (for Rapid Rooter)
  • Fluorescent Light (for Vegetative Stage)
  • Distilled Water (not sure about this - may just leave tap water sit out)
  • CO2 Tablets (from pet store)
  • Seltzer Water (to spray on plants for CO2)
  • Fan (to circulate air in the tent, and make plants stronger)
  • Spray Bottle
  • PPM Meter
  • GH FloraKleen
If anyone can think of anything I've missed, please let me know.

Until I get back to the store, I can't really start my seeds, since it is too cold in my growing area. My plan is to drop the seeds into the Rapid Rooter tray, and keep the tray in a dark place on the warming mat, until they sprout. Once they sprout, I believe it is save to put them under the fluorescent lights. Hopefully, someone will correct me there if I'm wrong. I also need to exchange the HydroHut for the mini version. The regular size is massive and way too big for the space I plan to set it up. I believe that I will be able to make due until I can get the replacement HydroHut, which will take me a couple weeks.

Next post .... my unresolved questions about nutrients ....