Light reflector, more helpful or hurtful? Box? - First grow - (pic)

DvJeff

Member
I'm currently working on my first grow, I have some seeds germinating right now, unfortunately only one of those is looking ready, after 72 hours...

The picture shows my indoor setup in my closet, I have the white garbage bags with cardboard in them, figuring they would give added reflection and a harder surface / cleaner surface than the carpet.
I'm using three 23w CFL's, two of them are the blue light spectrum, the other one is in the red light spectrum (idk if that will affect the plants negatively in the veg stage or not?)

Anyways, my main question is, that metal shade or reflector on the farthest light, I measured temps under it, and it was around 85 under it, yet it was 80 in the room in general... The other lights read about 81 under the light without reflectors... so I'm assuming I'll need a fan, but will that reflector cause more damage from heat, than help? I also want to put the pots in a bin, since I can't get a box quite yet, I heard a plastic storage bin type thing would be fine if I lined it with white bags or aluminum foil?

I was going to put a big fan in the opposite corner oscillating and if I got a bin, another small one in the bin with the plants... any ideas on whether thats a bad or good idea? etc... any specific fan sizes and stuff that would be good? I also believe I could move the pots closer to each other, or will it be better off how it is?

Thanks a TON, there's so much information starting off, I just want to have a good yield and I'm sure it will all be much easier after I get started. thanks again.
 

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DvJeff

Member
oh & I know the lights are too far from the pots, I just have them set up as examples of how they will be till I get them planted.
 

DvJeff

Member
sorry to write so much by the way...
I was also wondering where the best spot would be to place a thermometer for the best/accurate reading? thanks
 

dura72

Well-Known Member
the shade will reflect more light onto your plants so i'd go for the shades. put the thermometer down at the side of the pot just hidden from the direct light. fans size are up to your self just a decent oscillating desk fan with 2 or 3 speed settings will do. at tis point thats bout all u nedd. the fans are more to do with building stalk strength thru resistance, it bends the plant and the grow thicker by pushing back, bit light lifting weights. it also keeps air moving and reduces mold and bug problem , have the fan blowing over the top of the canopy and under the light, this allows you to put your light even closer. best of luck.
 
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