Hi!

I`m new to this forum, so this is my first post. I have learned incredibly much here, so first I`d like to thank you for all the good information.

I`m about to start my third grow and this time I want it more stealth. So I'm about to order everything I need for a new set-up and need some help chosing the right equipment. I have decided to use a Homebox XXL for flowering and a Homebox XL for the vegetative stage and two mother plants.

1. My first question regards the lighting. Im thinking 2x600W HPS w/ Adjust-A-Wings for flowering. Is this OK or overkill? I want as much light as possible without risking problems like hot spots, too much heat, etc. I will be using spreaders, and the ballasts will be on the outside, of course.

2. Also relating to possible heat problems when growing in a tent, will I be able to shut off the fans for a period of time to add CO2? If not, will adding CO2 "compensate" for using Cool Tubes, bearing in mind that Cool Tubes add less light?

3. How often would you cycle the air when adding CO2 in this set-up? How do I avoid high humidity in flowering during CO2 flushing?

Would be nice to get some tips on this!

Homebox XXL is approx 32 sq ft / 1200w = 37.5w p/sq ft

That will do, but the optimum is 50w.

Dont know anything about Co2.

You didnt mention air managment ? I mean fans.

Hi there, welcome to the forum.

1) You don't have to worry about heat issues so much nowadays, (unless you go cheap on the extractor fan,) hps bulbs have improved heaps in recent years so compared to yesteryear we get more light for the same heat or in the case of 2 x 600w/XXL, less heat for the same light although the heavy hitter strains (eg AK47) can give airy buds ime so not strong enough to be 'the best' but a good option if grams per watt is the priority.


The adjustwings have good rep but you can also get great yields with the euro reflector that comes with the entry level lighting deals. I use parabolic reflectors and in a bedroom during the last heatwave, the leaves never got more than 2 or 3 degrees higher than ambient. The parabolics have their cons though, it might be an idea to start with the euro as you'll know better what you want from a reflector in a year or two.

2) In practice, adding co2 is more trouble than it's worth plus there is the risk of it lowering yields if used incorrectly. If you do it, then EVERYTHING has to be done right, one cut corner can have you wishing you hadn't bothered. Of course to do it right you have to learn how to grow without it. Catch22. By the time you've paid for the extra equipment and the cost of running the aircon, might as well run a few more lights instead. Whatever air your extractor fan pulls into the tent will give them enough co2 for a bumper crop.

Have fun with your grow.

I cant give you any advice im afraid im still a virgin

but is that true? the ballasts on the outside of the tent?

My digital ballast stays inside the tent, the other three stay in the flower room. It depends on the situation as to what will work best for you.

forester click here to read our stickied topic about tents.

I think your two 600W plan is good, just be certain to get ballasts that can handle both MH/HPS. Most do these days, but someone may be offering one cheap that can only do one type of lamp or another. I use linear rails and they work nicely at getting even coverage. You can get them closer since you are moving the lights, so spread effect from this has to be taken into account as well.

If you have a good controller or controllers, you can add CO2 at very specific times. Be advised that CO2 is tricky to work with, a lot of work to install and only really effective when everything else is dialed in really well. And a much added expense. Spend your money on what you need to get your infra structure solid. And you might want to do some more research here.

I keep humidity peaks down (in my flower room only) with a dehumidifier.

Good Luck!

Thank you guys for taking the time to answer my questions. I will put the co2 project on hold for now.

I will be buying everything i need from head-nature. What type of ventilation would you guys reccomend for my set-up? Want it to be odour-free and as little noise as possible.

Is this ballast any good?

Can't wait setting up the tent and start my first serious grow. The strains are Mothers Finest, Black Domina and Shiva Shanti.

Spend your money on what you need to get your infra structure solid.

^^^^ What he said.

ballasts give off most of yr problem heat so it is advisable to keep em out of yr room whenever possible mate. Or thats what i have taught myself anyways!

I recommend Greens for all of your purchases. Good people, good products and excellent support. Get a good e-ballast (digi ballast) that can handle MH/HPS.

The minimum ventilation you want for any tent is active extraction. This requires a fan, duct tubing and a carbon filter (keep in mind that this is a bare bones description). Most noise comes from air movement in the ducting. Rigid ducting reduces this but most folks just get acoustic ducting. There are also duct mufflers for more serious noise reduction.

The carbon filter is to take care of the odor. Deoderant material made for commercial bathrooms (either spray or gel pucks) is a good way for spot treatment around your home (like mail slots).

You can get more serious about your ventilation by installing an intake fan and ducting.