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We’ve watched enough TV shows and movies to know that the basement just might be the ideal place for growing cannabis. Now, we know that we shouldn’t believe everything we see on TV, but in this case, it may be very well true!
Let’s look at the facts – basements are private, can be very spacious, and have consistent temperatures that are easy to manipulate. In other words, you have all the key factors to create an indoor environment where your cannabis plants will thrive!
Still, when you start researching everything you need for a basement growing setup, you may quickly become overwhelmed, which can keep you from starting at all! Well, we’re here to tell you that with the right approach, you can create a simple, efficient setup that delivers impressive yields.
With that said, we’ve created this beginner-friendly guide to help you build a basement cannabis growing setup.
As previously mentioned, basements offer near-perfect conditions for growing cannabis. Unlike upper floors and lofts, which can quickly become too hot, basements are cooler and have more stable temperatures throughout the year.
Additionally, basements are super private. Even though the public opinion of growing cannabis has become less strict in recent years, some people still frown upon it. Luckily, with basements, you can keep light, noise, and odors under control, and most importantly – away from prying eyes.
Lastly, basements are typically spacious, giving enough room for your plants to grow and thrive. Still, basement cannabis growing comes with its drawbacks, specifically with airflow and humidity, but we’ll get more into detail about that later.
Before buying all the necessary equipment, you need to determine the proper place for your setup. You need a clean, dry place that has easy access to electricity. As you know, basements can sometimes be damp and humid, so you’ll need to double-check before installing the setup.
Grow tents are usually recommended for beginner growers. These structures have reflective materials that maximize light efficiency, help contain odors, and control humidity.
When evaluating your space, you also need to think about lighting as it is one of the most important elements of the growth cycle. LED lights are typically the best option since they can closely mimic natural sunlight, produce less heat, and are energy-efficient.
However, you need to be careful with their positioning. If they’re too close, the plants are at risk of becoming overheated; too far, and they might not grow strong enough. Here’s a detailed look at the recommended distances during different growing stages:
Ventilation and airflow can be a bit tricky with basement cannabis growing. As you know, the air in basements can become stale if not ventilated properly. On top of that, they can also be quite humid, creating a breeding ground for pests and mold.
This is why you should invest in a high-quality ventilation system. This consists of an extraction fan that pulls stale air and an intake system that brings in fresh air. Consider including a carbon filter to keep odors at bay.
Additionally, you should also think about including a fan in your setup to keep the air circulating. They help strengthen plant stems and prevent pockets of stagnant air from forming around your plants.
When it comes to temperature, basements have a big advantage because they are significantly cooler than other areas of the home. Still, you need to control the temperature to encourage proper growth.
The LED lights will provide enough warmth for your plants, but if the basement gets pretty cold in winter, you might need to install a heater. Remember not to make the room too hot, as cannabis doesn’t tolerate that much heat.
Humidity can be a bigger challenge. As previously mentioned, basements can retain more moisture because they are below ground level. To keep humidity in check, you need a dehumidifier, especially during the flowering phase when mold and mildew can be more of a problem.
Once the equipment is in place, you need to decide whether you want to grow cannabis in soil or hydroponically.
Soil is the simplest option for beginners – it contains natural nutrients, and it’s easier to manage. On the other hand, hydroponic systems require constant monitoring and attention but yield higher yields.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to how much control you want to have over the entire growing process.
Along with warmth and proper airflow, cannabis plants also require consistent watering and nutrients to thrive and produce potent buds.
Since you’re growing in a basement, you need to be careful with overwatering, as this is one of the most common rookie mistakes. Basements are already damp, so allow the soil to dry out slightly before adding more water.
As for nutrients, cannabis plants require higher nitrogen levels during the vegetative stage to support leaf and stem growth, and higher levels of phosphorus and potassium during the flowering phase. The easiest way to keep track of this is by having a simple-to-follow “feeding” schedule to ensure your plants stay balanced.
After completing your setup, choosing your cannabis seeds, and finally planting them, the only thing left is to keep an eye out on your growing conditions. Even the slightest change can make a huge difference for your plants!
Check your plants and leaves daily for signs of stress and pests. Cannabis plants (specifically their leaves) are typically a strong green, so any discoloration may indicate a problem. Also, don’t forget to keep your growing area free of dead leaves and other contaminants.
By following these steps, you’ll see that basement cannabis growing isn’t so challenging! When you’re ready to start growing, check out our strain collection, including indoor-growing strains.
