Are you an indoor grower looking to set up your own indoor or hydroponic grow room? If so, you’ll need to ensure you have all the right supplies before you start. To help, we’ve put together an indoor grow room supplies list that every indoor grower should have. This list includes everything from basic grow room essentials like fans and air filters to more specific items like hydroponic grow systems and marijuana grow lights.
No matter what indoor grow room you’re setting up, be sure to have the following items on hand.
Choose: Hydroponic or Soil Growing?
When it comes to growing cannabis indoors, there are two main methods: soil cultivation and hydroponic cultivation.
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to grow cannabis in soil or use a hydroponic system. Soil is the traditional grow medium, and it’s relatively easy to set up. Hydroponics, however, requires a bit more investment upfront but offers a more controlled environment.
Growing cannabis indoors with both soil and hydro methods will require a number of supplies and materials, but there are some key differences between the growing equipment and supplies needed for each. To get started planting, soil growers will need pots or containers filled with potting mix, whereas hydroponic growers will need a water-tight container and a growing medium, such as perlite or coco coir. Both types of growers will need grow lights and ventilation systems. However, hydroponic growers will also need a water pump, reservoir and a way to aerate the water.
While both growing methods require a lot of equipment, hydroponic cultivation is generally considered more complex and time-consuming. Nevertheless, many indoor growers prefer hydroponics because it offers several advantages, such as faster growth rates and higher yields.
Ultimately, the choice between soil and hydroponics comes down to personal preference. Our indoor grow room supplies list will provide recommendations for both soil and hydroponic growers.
Choose: DIY or Purchase a Grow Room Kit?
Setting up your grow room will require some basic carpentry skills and a fair amount of patience. However, if you’re not the DIY type, many grow room kits are available to make the process much easier. These kits usually contain everything you need to start, including grow lights, fans, and ventilation systems.
As mentioned earlier, indoor growers can cultivate cannabis in soil or use a hydroponic system. After you’ve chosen, it’s time to start gathering the necessary growing supplies for the basic setup.
Basic Hydroponic Grow Room Supplies
Various hydroponic systems have unique benefits and drawbacks. The most popular hydroponic systems include deep water culture (DWC), drip irrigation, and aeroponics. DWC and drip irrigation systems are generally best suited for large-scale grows, whereas aeroponics is more suitable for smaller operations.
Grow Container
No matter which hydroponic system you choose, you’ll need to start with a water-tight grow container. These are for protecting your plants from pests and diseases and providing the perfect environment for optimal growth. When selecting a grow container, be sure to pick one that’s large enough to accommodate your plants at full maturity.
Once you’ve selected a container, it’s time to fill it with a growing medium.
Growing Media
Choosing a growing medium is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make when setting up your hydroponic system. This is the material that will support your plants and help them to absorb nutrients.
Some of the most popular hydroponic growing media include:
- Coco coir – Coco coir is made from the fibers of coconut husks. It’s an excellent growing medium for cannabis plants, as it’s pH-neutral, holds moisture well, and is easy to aerate.
- Rockwool – Rockwool is made from melted down rocks and minerals. It’s an inert growing medium that doesn’t affect the pH of your nutrient solution. It’s also very easy to aerate, making it a good choice for hydroponic growers.
- Vidawool – Vidawool is a thoughtfully designed growing media made up of recycled content and offers efficient water retention dispersion and aeration.
- Smart gravel – An alternative to traditional gravel, smart gravel is a lightweight and easy-to-use growing medium. It has good water retention properties and offers easy aeration.
- Perlite – Perlite is a type of volcanic glass often used in hydroponic systems. It’s lightweight and porous, so it helps to aerate the root zone and prevent waterlogging.
- Vermiculite – Vermiculite is a type of mineral that is heated until it expands. It has nutrients that benefit plants, making it a popular choice for growers.
- Clay pellets – These pellets are made from clay pebbles that have been heated until they expand. The pellets are very porous and can retain a lot of water. They’re also light and non-toxic, making them ideal for people looking to use an environmentally responsible option.
Not every growing media works with every hydroponic system. For instance, coco coir works in most systems but doesn’t work well with aeroponics. So be sure to research before selecting a growing medium for your system.
Learn more: Hydroponic Growing Media & Media Types
Reservoir Tanks
Another integral component of a hydroponic system is the reservoir tank. This is where you will store your nutrient solution. The size of the tank will depend on the number of plants you’re growing, and the size of your grow container.
Choose a reservoir tank composed of food-grade materials to keep your plants safe and ensure it’s clean before use. You’ll also want a lid for your reservoir tank to avoid evaporation, pests, and illnesses.
You’ll also need tubing to connect the pump to the growing medium. Be sure to select durable tubing such as PVC, as the nutrient solution will be corrosive. You’ll also want to avoid using flexible tubing, as it can kink and prevent the solution from flowing properly.
Basic Soil-Based Grow Room Supplies
Using a soil-based system, you’ll need to start with a grow container. As with hydroponic systems, the size of the container will depend on the number of plants you’re growing and their maturity.
Grow Containers
There are a few options for containers:
- Grow pots: These pots are made from various materials, including plastic, fabric, metal, and ceramic.
- Trays: Trays are shallow containers typically used to grow seedlings or cuttings. They’re often made from plastic or metal and have drainage holes.
- Grow bags: Grow bags from brands like Springpot, are often made from breathable fabric and used for a variety of plants. They typically have handles for easy transport and come with premade drainage holes.
Potting Soil & Potting Mix
Once you’ve selected a grow container, you’ll need to fill it with a quality potting mix. Be sure to avoid using garden soil, as it can have harmful bacteria and pests. Instead, choose a potting mix that’s designed for indoor plants. These mixes are typically lighter and more breathable than garden soil, which is important for roots that are confined to a small space.
You’ll also need to add a nutrient rich water source to your soil-based system. This can be done by using a watering can or hose. Be sure to avoid tap water, as it can contain harmful chemicals that can damage your plants. Instead, opt for distilled water.
If you’re growing plants requiring a lot of water, you may consider using a self-watering system. These systems can be as simple as a couple of buckets or an automatic drip system. They work by slowly releasing water to the roots of your plants, which can help to prevent over or underwatering.
Grow Tents
No matter what indoor grow room system you’re setting up, you’ll most likely need a grow tent. While you may have the perfect location in mind for your indoor garden, remember that plants need a specific environment to thrive, and not every room can provide this.
Grow tents create the perfect environment for indoor plants. They typically have a reflective interior, which helps to maximize light exposure. They also have multiple vents that can open or close to control airflow and temperature. Most grow tents also come equipped with a removable floor liner, which can help to prevent spills and contain messes.
Horticultural Lighting
Light is one of the most critical factors in indoor gardening, as it’s essential for photosynthesis. While you may be tempted to set up your indoor garden near a window, it’s important to remember that natural light isn’t always enough, and you’ll need to supplement it with artificial grow lighting.
LED Grow Lights
LED grow lights are a popular choice for indoor growers, as they’re energy-efficient and emit very little heat. In addition, they’re available in various colors, which can target specific needs such as vegetative growth or flowering.
Fluorescent Grow Lights
Fluorescent grow lights are another energy-efficient option. They’re available in both compact and tube varieties. Compact fluorescent grow lights are typically used for seedlings and cuttings, while tube fluorescent grow lights are better suited for larger plants.
HID Grow Lights
HID grow lights are a high-intensity option often used for flowering plants. They’re available in metal halide (MH) and high-pressure sodium (HPS) options. HPS lights are typically used during the flowering stage, as they emit a red/orange light ideal for this growth phase. MH lights emit a blue light that is better suited for vegetative growth.
No matter what type of light you choose, ensure that it’s adequately shielded. This will help to prevent light leaks, which can disrupt the sleep cycle of your plants.
Read more: Hydroponic Lighting Guide: All About Hydroponic Grow Lights
Grow Safety Glasses
When working with indoor grow lights, it’s essential to wear proper eye protection. Grow safety glasses are designed to block out harmful UV rays that can damage your eyes. They also help to reduce glare, which can be a problem when working with reflective surfaces.
Air Cleaning, Climate Control, and Ventilation
One of the most important aspects of indoor gardening is climate control. Plants need a specific temperature and humidity level to thrive, and indoor grow rooms can be difficult to regulate.
One way to help control the climate of your indoor grow room is to use an air conditioner or heater. This will help to keep the temperature at a consistent level. In addition to temperature and humidity, indoor plants also need fresh air. Therefore, you must have a ventilation system in place. Ventilation systems help to circulate fresh air and remove stale air from the grow room. So while you’re making your own indoor grow room supplies list, be sure to have the following.
Rotating Wall Fans
In addition to a ventilation system, it’s also a good idea to use rotating wall fans. These fans help to circulate air and prevent hot spots from forming. They can also direct airflow towards specific areas, such as vents or windows.
Intake Fan with HEPA Filters
An intake fan is a must-have for any indoor grow room. These fans help to bring fresh air into the grow room and remove stagnant air. In addition to an intake fan, it’s also wise to use HEPA filters. These filters help to remove dust, pollen, and other contaminants from the air.
Exhaust Fan with Carbon Filters
An exhaust fan is another essential for indoor grow rooms. These fans help to remove hot air and odors. In addition to an exhaust fan, use carbon filters. These filters help to remove harmful chemicals and VOCs.
Ducting
Ducting is necessary for any indoor grow room that uses an exhaust fan. This is because ducting helps to circulate air and prevent hot spots. Ensure your ducting is the proper size for your setup. If the ducting is too small, it can restrict airflow and cause problems.
Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers
In addition to temperature, indoor plants also need a specific humidity level to thrive. Therefore, it’s crucial to use humidifiers and dehumidifiers in your indoor grow room. Humidifiers help to add moisture to the air, while dehumidifiers help to remove excess moisture.
Air Purifier
An air purifier is another vital piece of growing equipment. These devices help to remove dust, pollen, and other contaminants from the air. Again, this is important for the health of your plants and your respiratory health.
Supplies for Plant Maintenance and Growth
Once your plants begin to grow, there are a few things you’ll need to do to keep them healthy. Ensure you have these essentials on you indoor grow room supplies list.
Nutrients and Fertilizers
Plants need nutrients and fertilizers to grow. There are a variety of different types of nutrients and fertilizers available, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your plants.
Because there are so many nutrient solutions and fertilizers for varying types of plants, it is difficult to make a definitive indoor grow room supplies list. However, some common nutrient and fertilizer products include:
- Controlled release fertilizers: These fertilizers, like products from Beanstalk Agriculture, are designed to slowly release nutrients into the soil over a period of time. This is beneficial for indoor plants because it prevents them from being overfed and allows them to receive the nutrients they need gradually.
- Liquid fertilizers: Liquid fertilizers are a great way to provide nutrients to indoor plants. They can be applied directly to the soil or diluted and used as a foliar spray. Foliar spray will supply nutrients directly to the plants, and the nutrients will be absorbed much faster than soil fertilizers. They can be acquired in either a liquid spray or a powder feed, but both are applied directly onto the plant.
- Solid fertilizers: Solid fertilizers are another option for indoor plants. These fertilizers can be applied directly to the soil or mixed with water to create a liquid fertilizer.
- Growth regulators: Growth regulators are products that help control plants’ growth. They can promote or inhibit growth, depending on the plant’s needs.
In addition to these, some growers like to use additives like stimulators, bloom enhancers, and root zone conditioners. These products can help to optimize plant growth and yield.
Soil Moisture Reader
For indoor growers who use soil, a soil moisture reader is an essential tool. This device helps to measure the moisture content of the soil. This information helps determine when to water plants and how much water they need.
Thermo-hygrometer
A thermo-hygrometer measures the temperature and humidity of the grow room. This information advises on how to adjust the settings on humidifiers and dehumidifiers. If the grow room is too hot or too humid, it can create problems for plants.
EC Reader
For those using hydroponics, an EC reader is an essential tool. This device measures the electrical conductivity of nutrient rich water. This determines the strength of the solution and whether plants are getting the nutrients they need.
pH Meter & pH Solutions
A pH meter is a tool that measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil or water. This information is valuable because pH can affect the availability of nutrients to plants. Too much or too little acidity can make nutrients unavailable to plants.
Here is where pH solutions come to the rescue. pH solutions are specifically designed to adjust the pH by adding more acidity or alkalinity, depending on the needs of the plants.
Light meter
A light meter measures the intensity of light in the grow environment. This is essential because indoor plants need a certain amount of light to grow. If the light is too intense, it can damage plants. If the light is not intense enough, plants will not be able to grow correctly.
Grow Room Timers
Grow room timers control the lights, fans, watering systems and other devices in the grow room. These timers can be programmed to turn devices on and off at specific times, keeping the grow room environment consistent.
Plant Pest Control & Disease Control Supplies
No matter how clean you keep your grow room, pests can still find their way in. That’s why it’s best to have a plan for pest control. Various chemical and organic pesticides and traps are available. Likewise, there are various products to prevent and treat diseases in plants.
These include:
- Fungicide: Fungicides work to prevent or treat fungal diseases.
- Pesticides: Pesticides are chemicals that kill pests like insects and rodents.
- Herbicide: Herbicides work to kill weeds that compete with plants for resources.
- Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural pesticide made from the seeds of the neem tree. This product can be applied to the leaves of plants or the soil around them.
- Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is natural pest control that works by absorbing the oils and waxy coatings that pests use to protect themselves.
Not every grower will need all these products, but it’s wise to be aware of them.
Harvesting Tools
Once plants are ready to be harvested, a few tools can make the job easier. During this time, you’ll be working with the plant’s buds; take great caution to handle them carefully.
Trimming Tables
Trimming tables give you space to work with. These tables often have built-in trays that catch fallen leaves and buds.
Trim Scissors and Loppers
Trim scissors are small, sharp scissors that are best for trimming away leaves and buds. Loppers are larger shears that can cut through thicker stems.
Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner
A wet/dry vacuum cleaner collects fallen leaves and buds. This is a convenient way to keep your work area clean and tidy.
Plant Movers / Plant Rollers
Plant movers or rollers make it easy to move plants around the grow room. These can be helpful when it’s time to harvest the plants, as you’ll be able to move them to a new location quickly.
Drying and Curing Equipment
After plants are harvested, they need to be dried and cured before they can be used. There are a few different methods to dry and cure cannabis. The most common method is to hang the plants upside down in a dark location with good air circulation. For this, you’ll need drying racks or hangers.
Once the plants are dried, they need to cure. Curing is a process that allows the plants to dry slowly over time and helps preserve the quality of the cannabis.
Curing can be done by hanging the plants in a dark location with good air circulation. You’ll also need storage containers to store the dried and cured cannabis. Glass jars with airtight lids work well.
Digital Scale & Measuring Cups
After you’ve harvested your plants, you’ll need to weigh and measure them. A digital scale is the most accurate way to do this. Measuring cups can also be used to estimate the weight of the plants.
Extraction Machines & Butane
If you’re interested in making cannabis concentrates, you’ll need an extraction machine and butane. Extraction machines use solvents like butane to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. This process creates a highly concentrated product for dabbing or other methods of consumption.
Butane is a flammable solvent, so it’s critical to use it in well-ventilated areas and follow all safety precautions.
Grow Room Cleaning Supplies
Keeping your grow room clean is of the most important for the health of your plants. So, you’ll need to keep a few cleaning supplies on hand.
- Grow room cleaner: This special cleaning solution is safe to use around plants. It is for cleaning grow tents, trays, and other equipment.
- Sanitizing sprays: sanitizing sprays clean surfaces like tables and trimming scissors.
- Ozone generators: Ozone generators clean the air in grow rooms. They can help to remove mold, mildew, and other contaminants from the air.
Overall, it’s smart to have every piece of equipment and supplies before you start indoor gardening. By having everything you need, you can set up your grow room quickly and easily. And once your plants are ready to harvest, you’ll have the tools to do it safely and efficiently.
Marijuana Grow Supplies from HRG
With this newfound knowledge of grow room essentials and a solid indoor grow room supplies list in hand, you’re on your way to being a professional in cannabis cultivation. But where do you get all these supplies? Look no further than HRG, your one-stop shop for hydroponic grow room supplies. We’ve got everything you need to get started.
Find HRG brands locally to get started growing today!