A hydroponic grow tent is a box-like setup, usually made up of some fabric, which is layered with light and heat reflective material. The tent is also equipped to have light and heat ventilation. Since you can control most of the conditions, you can grow any kind of plant in a hydroponic tent. Always keep your requirements in mind while buying a grow tent. This will ensure that you get the best grow tent for your indoor home garden.
Following considerations will help you make the most out of your investment in a hydroponic grow tent:
What kind of plants do you want to grow in the tent?
Sometimes when you want to grow tall plants inside a hydroponic grow tent, it is important to choose a tent that can accommodate the plants. The hydroponic grow tent should provide enough space and headroom for the plants so that the light is properly reflected. The tent should also be flexible and adjustable with poles and an extension kit, so that the tent can be expanded to match the height of the plants.
What kind of ventilation does the tent provide?
It’s important to have proper air circulation and ventilation for controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. For this, the tent should either be equipped with electrical ports for exhaust fans or there should be enough space indoors to place the hydroponic grow tent near a window to set up the vents. All fresh air vents and exhaust fans should be fitted so that they correspond with all openings or windows in the building.
What size do you want your tent to be?
Before buying a hydroponic grow tent, make a list of all the plants that you want to grow in the tent. For example, if you grow small plants, a setup containing few shelves will suffice, and if you grow lots of plants, then it is advisable to have the same type shelves as it is better to have a similar habitat created within the tent.
What other features should the tent have?
The tent should be equipped with enough support bars in case you want to add more lights. These support bars should be strong enough for fitting hanging ventilation fans or air ducting.
The fabric should be durable and should have a heavy canvas outer layer. The canvas can be of nylon or polyester, layered with the inner lining of biaxially oriented polyethylene terepthalate, which is reflective in nature. Avoid materials like polyvinyl chloride since they are harmful to plants.
The frame of the grow tent should be sturdy. Stainless steel offers a good strength but it is also heavy and expensive. Lighter materials like plastic can be used if they support the weight. Poles can be used to provide extra support. Also consider the maximum weight of the frames; it is better to buy a tent of higher weight rating.
Ports and vents are extremely important. Often, ventilation and filtration need access to the surroundings of the tent; therefore it is imperative that the tent is placed with the vents near openings or windows. The vents and ports should be located such that the tent can accommodate as much equipment as necessary.
Other desirable features to have include zipper covers and vent socks that serve as light control features, adjustable ceilings, spill trays, and pouches. The fabric should be durable and puncture resistant. The tent should be easy to install and should have a number of air vents.
How cost-effective is hydroponic grow tent?
Temperatures at most places are rising due to global warming. Therefore most plants that could normally be grown outside have to be grown under controlled temperature conditions. This can only be done in a hydroponic grow tent. The interior of the tent is provided with a reflective Mylar coating, so that light is provided to the plants from all directions. Though hydroponic grow tents are expensive, they become a better investment in the long run because a lot of resources are saved since the tent provides light and nutrients and also cuts down on water wastage.
Hydroponic grow tents come as a package or the equipment can be assembled separately. Sometimes there is some confusion as to which is more convenient; the integrated package or the mix and match? In indoor gardening, often several other enhancements are required, like filters, support poles, and lighting equipment. But this is easier for experts as they will be able to determine what extra features they would like to include in their grow tents. However for beginners, mix and match is advisable because they will then be able to choose what equipment they feel comfortable with while setting up the tent.
