What Do I Need To Set Up A DIY Cannabis Grow Room?

If you have decided to grow your own cannabis at home, you are in for an exciting journey! However, you will need the right space, equipment, and knowledge to get your grow room in the right condition to produce quality cannabis yields. Not only will you have a steady supply of cannabis, but you will also gain a greater appreciation of the beneficial herb. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about setting up a DIY cannabis grow room.

Selecting A Space For Your Cannabis Grow Room

If you want to grow cannabis at home, you will need a dedicated growing space. Consider the following questions when choosing a space for growing your cannabis plants:

• What is the average humidity in the room?
• Are there any significant temperature fluctuations to account for (north facing vs. south facing walls, interior vs. exterior walls, etc.)?
• Do the windows need to be covered to block out light?
• How many electrical outlets are available and will you need extension cords/multiplugs?
• Will you be able to set up a ventilation system?
• Is it accessible to children or pets, and can you section it off?

Your area should be at least 1m² so you have enough cannabis to harvest. You can get a few smaller plants or 1-2 bigger plants in that space, which should produce similar yields. The height of your cannabis grow room will depend on which light system you are using.

Spare rooms, basements, attics, sheds, and cupboards are ideal places to set up your grow room. Discretion is probably the most important factor in most cases, as well as keeping your grow room closed off from children and pets. Keep in mind that fans and lights make noise, and cannabis gives off a potent odour.  

Insulation from light is important as cannabis plants need a specific light cycle, as well as proper ventilation to keep the plants healthy. You will also need to keep in mind that you need access to power sockets for your equipment. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher in your grow room in case of an emergency as you are working with electrical equipment.

What Supplies/Equipment Will I Need For My DIY Cannabis Grow Room?

In order to set up your cannabis grow room for success, you will need a few key supplies and essential equipment. Make sure that you get the following things ready when preparing your cannabis grow room:

• Lighting system
• Ventilation system
• Temperature and humidity control
• Growing medium
• Containers (optional if you are using a hydroponic system)
• pH control and nutrients
• Light timers
• Extra gardening supplies

Lighting System

There are different types of lighting systems that are efficient for growing cannabis, of which the most popular are LEDs and HIDs. LEDs have a long lifespan and are energy efficient, providing the full spectrum of light cannabis plants need for growth. Many growers claim that High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lights are more effective for growing cannabis, but they also consume more electricity and give off more heat.

Ventilation System

Your cannabis plants cannot thrive and produce quality buds without proper ventilation.There are a few ways to keep your grow room well-ventilated, of which the most efficient are by using:

• Exhaust fans: Removes hot air and maintains a consistent temperature.
• Intake fans: Draws fresh air into your grow space.
• Carbon filters: Eliminates odours from your grow room.
• Oscillating fans: Promotes air circulation and strengthens plant stems (promotes increased growth).

Temperature And Humidity Control

You will need a thermometer to monitor the temperature in your grow room and a hygrometer to check the humidity levels. If the humidity levels are out of range, you can use a humidifier/dehumidifier to get things back in balance. Similarly, you can use a heater and your fans to adjust the temperature.

Growing Medium

Cannabis growers have a few options in terms of growing mediums, and it mostly comes down to preference. Some popular choices include:

• Soil: High-quality potting soil that has plenty of nutrients with good drainage is easy to work with.
• Soilless mixes: Peat moss, coco coir, and perlite are soilless mixes that give growers better control over pH levels and nutrients.
• Hydroponic systems: Growing plants without soil in nutrient-filled water.

Containers

Pots or plastic containers are necessary for growing your plants. Make sure they have drainage holes, and place trays underneath to catch additional water and keep your area clean. 

pH Control And Nutrients

You will need to monitor your cannabis plants carefully to ensure they are getting the right type and amount of nutrients through each growing phase. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are three essential nutrients cannabis plants will need. Invest in a pH metre so you can keep an eye on your water and nutrient solutions and adjust them as necessary.

Light Timers

You can use light timers to automatically set up a cycle for growing your plants. This is the best way to ensure consistent periods of light and darkness that promote optimal cannabis growth. Cannabis plants should general be kept on the following light cycle:

• Vegetative stage: 18 hours on /  6 hours off
• Flowering stage: 12 hours on / 12 hours off

Extra Gardening Supplies

Along with all the essentials for making your grow room a success, you will need some general gardening supplies to keep your plants thriving. Make sure that you get the following supplies as necessary:

• Trellis / plant supports
• Shovel / hand fork
• Pruning shears
• Watering can / gardening hose
• Plant labels
• Mason jars (for storing harvested buds)

Now that you know exactly what you need to set up your own DIY cannabis grow room, you can get to the fun part of choosing your specific seeds and strains. Just keep an eye on the humidity, temperature, and pH levels, remember to set your lights on an appropriate cycle, and check on your plants regularly to make sure they are growing properly and do not have signs of pests. Enjoy setting up your DIY cannabis grow room for success, and may your plants thrive!