Setting up Seed Shop

It’s time to get out the old shop light and convert the closet into the grow room.  Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need:

• hanging florescent shop light that can be moved to adjust height
• full spectrum florescent bulbs (or you can get specific plant lights, they’re just more spendy)
• table you don’t mind getting dirty
• seedlings sprouted (hopefully you were able to start them with warmth from below, a heating pad or radiator, and sun from above, a window sill)
• automatic light timer
• ruler
• tape
• aluminum foil
• water

As the first two leaves (cotyledons) emerge, you know it’s time to move them.  At this point, they need a lot of light and evenly moist bed to grow.

I hang aluminum foil on my walls to allow the light to be reflected back to the seedlings.  As the plants grow taller, I add more.

Hang your light so that it is between 6-12 inches away from the top of the plants.

Set the light timer, allowing the lights to be on for 12-16 hours a day.  Keep an eye on the soil.  I use a spray bottle to mist the soil as to not disturb the sprouts with the force of water that can come from a watering can.  As they mature, I’ll offer up more advice.  As for now, enjoy the emergence of new life growing in your closet!