Grow Tent Setup Guide UK

Not sure which setup is right for you?

A grow tent creates controlled environment for indoor growing. Temperature, humidity, and light: all manageable. Here's how to set one up properly.

Why Use a Tent: Reflective walls maximise light efficiency. Enclosed space simplifies climate control. Contains mess and smell (if growing aromatic herbs). Light doesn't disturb your living space.

You can grow without a tent, but tents make everything easier to optimise.

Choosing Size:

60×60cm: Good for herbs and small greens. 2-6 plants depending on size.

80×80cm: The sweet spot for hobbyists. Room for a meaningful harvest without dominating a room.

120×120cm: Serious production. Room for larger plants or significant quantities.

Buy slightly larger than you think you need. Plants fill space quickly.

Ventilation Is Essential: Plants need fresh air. CO2 depletes in enclosed spaces. Heat builds from lights. Without ventilation, problems multiply.

Minimum setup: Intake vent (can be passive), exhaust fan, ducting.

Better setup: Inline fan with carbon filter (controls any odours), speed controller, intake fan.

Fan sizing: Match CFM (cubic feet per minute) to your tent's volume. Turn over the air at least once per minute.

**Lighting Setup:** Position lights centrally. Most LEDs want 30-50cm above plant canopy. Adjust as plants grow.

Use adjustable hangers. You'll move lights constantly as plants develop.

Climate Control:

Temperature: Aim for 20-26°C during lights-on, slightly cooler lights-off.

Humidity: Seedlings like 65-70%. Vegetative growth: 50-60%. Flowering: 40-50%.

A small fan circulating air inside prevents hot spots and strengthens stems.

Cost Breakdown:

Budget setup (60×60): Tent: £40-60 Light (100W LED): £50-80 Fan and filter: £50-80 Pots/system: £30-50 Total: £170-270

Mid-range setup (80×80): Tent: £60-80 Light (200W LED): £100-150 Fan and filter: £80-120 Climate monitoring: £20-40 Total: £260-390

Common Mistakes:

Undersizing ventilation: If it feels stuffy inside, airflow is inadequate.

Overcomplicating initially: Start simple. Add automation and monitoring later.

Ignoring light leaks: If growing photoperiod plants, total darkness matters.

Our Recommendation: Start with an 80×80 tent even if it seems large. The extra space is always welcome. Invest in decent ventilation from the start.

Quality tents from Mars Hydro, Spider Farmer, and similar brands include reasonable accessories. Budget options work but often have light leaks and poor zips.

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