Hey everyone! I live in the Pacific Northwest, and I have this unused walk-in closet that's roughly the size of a large elevator. It's packed with shelves and has a single bulb overhead. This closet is in the middle of my house and doesn't touch any outside walls. I'm really excited about the idea of converting it into a year-round indoor garden!
I want to fill it with seedlings, greens, herbs, and microgreens on the shelves, while placing larger plants like sweet potatoes, regular potatoes, tomatoes, and maybe even squash on the floor. My plan includes putting down wall-to-wall tarp to protect the floor, using tote bags for the bigger plants (so I can move them easily during harvest), and setting up grow lights.
If this sounds remotely possible, I have a few questions:
* How can I determine the amount and type of grow lights I need for such a confined space? Most info I find tends to focus on growing weed, haha!
* Would my closet need additional heating or humidity control?
* Should I insulate the walls or pad them in any way?
* Are standard grow light bulbs worth it? I won't be relying on them entirely, but I'm curious if they could add some value.
* I'm planning to water using a large watering can, but I'm considering connecting a hose to the nearby bathroom. However, that seems risky. How much water do you think I might need?
Is this whole thing crazy? If it's a solid plan, I'm thinking of taking the plunge and getting it going, especially with Prime Day around the corner!
3 Answers
I actually tried growing plants in an enclosed space in Redmond, and it ended up being a mold nightmare. I'd caution against it, honestly. Even using a fan for airflow in a spare room wasn't enough to keep the mold at bay! Maybe consider using that closet as a pantry instead?
Yeah, the mold concern is real! Just be sure to consider airflow options if you do go ahead with it.
Given the moisture levels in the PNW, indoor mold can be a real issue. A dehumidifier would definitely help, but be cautious about that space turning into a moldfest! You might want to rethink using it as a garden.
Ventilation is key! How do you plan on keeping the air moving in there? You could keep one door open while shutting the other as a start, but it sounds like investing in a dehumidifier could save you from some mold headaches.
Sounds like a good idea! Just make sure whatever setup you choose can actually keep the moisture levels in check.
I totally hear you! Have you thought about using one of those grow tents instead? They might help manage the humidity and keep things ventilated better.