The ABC of Growing – What Every Beginner Should Know

The ABC of Growing – What Every Beginner Should Know

So, you're thinking about starting your own grow? Whether you're looking to cultivate for personal wellness, education, or simply the love of plants, indoor growing is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can begin. But like any new skill, success starts with the basics. Here's your beginner-friendly guide – the ABC of growing – to help you get started on the right track.

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A = Area and Medium

Your growing space is your foundation. It doesn’t have to be large, expensive, or fancy – it just needs to be clean, controlled, and consistent.
Here’s what you need to consider:

• Growing area: A small tent, a spare closet, or even a custom-built box can work. What matters most is light control and airflow.
• Medium: Choose your substrate based on your goals. Coco coir offers great control and fast growth, while soil is more forgiving for beginners. Hydroponics is efficient but requires more monitoring.
• Environment: Avoid high humidity areas, keep the space clean, and set up tools for controlling air, temperature, and moisture.

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B = Light and Climate

Plants thrive under consistent conditions – and lighting is the biggest factor.

• Lighting: LEDs are the gold standard for efficiency and effectiveness. Start with 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness for vegetative growth. Switch to 12/12 for flowering.
• Temperature & Humidity: Ideal temps are around 22–27°C (72–80°F). Keep humidity between 50–70% depending on the growth stage. A thermometer/hygrometer combo is a grower’s best friend.
• Air circulation: Always use a fan to move air and reduce stagnant moisture. Add an exhaust system for proper ventilation, especially in enclosed spaces.

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C = Nutrients and Watering

Feeding your plants properly is critical – but many beginners overdo it. Here's how to stay balanced:

• Nutrients: Use a simple two- or three-part nutrient system that matches your growth phase. Don't mix blindly – always follow dosage instructions.
• Watering: Overwatering is the #1 beginner mistake. Let the top of your medium dry out before the next watering.
• pH: Your plant can’t absorb nutrients if the pH is off. Aim for 5.8–6.5 depending on the medium.

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Bonus Tips: Watch, Learn, and Have Fun

Your plants will talk to you – not with words, but with leaves:

• Curling or burnt tips? Too many nutrients.
• Pale or yellow leaves? Nutrient deficiency or poor pH.
• Weak growth? Check your light strength or root health.

Document everything, take photos, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Each grow teaches you something new.

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Ready to Start? We’ve Got Your Back.

At Strain Station, we’ve helped thousands of growers get started with the right seeds, gear, and support. Our selection is curated for quality, simplicity, and results – whether you're starting small or dreaming big.

Check our website to explore beginner-friendly seeds, growing equipment, and expert guides tailored to help you grow with confidence.

Let this season be the one you finally start growing your own.

You’ve got this – and we’re with you every step of the way.