What would be the problems in using a HPS lamp during veg?? I'm planning on building a small growdrobe (about 2'x2') and was thinking about using a 250W HPS all around. Would it be ok??

I use an HPS for vegging. Never had any problems at all, although I have read that it can make plants stretch more than a metal halide..

If your worried about it though, get a balast that can handle both metal halide and hps bulbs (mine's too old)

I use the same HPS for veg and flower, never had any problems

hi rafa,

i have used hps for the whole veg period before with no probs.

i now use cfl for first few weeks then i transfer the flower room

then continue veg under hps until i go 12/12

tcc

Me too, although I use a 400w cmh for veg now.

It would be ok. Just check that you don't keep the hot hps too near the little once. Except that you should be okay. I've personally always used hps for vegging too and never had any problems.

Thanks for the replies. I guess i'll use only an HPS lamp then.. I'm planning a growdrobe now that I'm moving to my own house.

I've never done it any other way.

The only stretching problems I've had was using fluorescents for too long.

If you've never grown before, I still suggest getting some CFLs (20 watt) - maybe one per every two seedlings - just for the first couple of weeks. You'll need one or two in any case for the first couple of days... you can get them for under a quid.

The main thing is to make sure you have a fan blowing under the lamp - keeping the air fresh and gently blowing the seedlings to encourage stout stems.

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Youngest seedling 5 days old. 250 watt HPS at 9 inches.

i always use a hps. its a growlux son-t 400w dual spectrum so as far as im aware its fine for veg & flower