Re: 1st time grow-Shiva Skunk - Advice Please
A complete poor mans grow will be about 75-100+ watts of CFL bulbs per plant (CFL wattage, not the higher incandescent equivalent #), pots/buckets, drain trays if using buckets, fixtures for the bulbs, using the light bulb splitter helps fit 2 bulbs into 1 socket (extenders will be needed if using with the reflector). A timer for the lights will make your life a lot easier as well, but isn't required if you can turn the lights on and off at the same time every day. 18 hours on/6 hours off for veg is most popular. For photo strains, then you switch to 12/12 for flower. Auto strains can keep the same 18/6 schedule for the entire grow.
I'd suggest definitely using nutrients, I bought a small 3 part kit, that was about .9 liter, and it lasted through my first grow of 3 plants, and I have A LOT left over. You'll definitely need a PH meter, a digital one is best, but the cheap crappy one CAN work if you're really on a tight budget. (I'm using a cheap one now). For harvesting accurately you'll need at least a 30x magnifier. 60x is even better. You can find cheap microscopes with LED lights on Ebay for a few Euros. (You won't need one for at least 1-2months)
You will also want to be able to raise/lower your soil PH using a product called PH up and PH down. (Or something similar) Just be sure not to purchase the one for swimming pools. You can hold off on buying this, but as soon as your PH goes up or down, you'll need it as soon as possible. In a pinch you can use some household items, like lemon juice or vinegar to make the soil more acidic.
You'll need 1 small oscillating fan, or a breeze of some sort blowing on the plant at all times.
And depending on your situation, you might want an exhaust fan, and activated carbon filter to filter the smell of the Cannabis when she starts to flower.
I was able to purchase all of my equipment for about 180 Euro.
