1st Grow

PS: That FC4000 EVO throws serious photons even at 40%. It’s not a weak light, it’s just easy to overdo it if the room’s not balanced yet. You’re doing it right keeping it low until she’s ready.

Hey growmie, week 6 veg and 40% at 20” is actually a nice cautious setup. Mars claims are always a bit aggressive, 12–18” at 75% might work later, but not this early unless you’ve got perfect temps and airflow dialed. Right now, I’d bump up to 55–60% and keep the same distance. Watch how the plant reacts for 2–3 days. If no signs of bleaching or clawing, go a bit higher from there. Slow ramp = no shock. Your diary looks solid so far, plant looks happy,no rush. Also, if it “cooked” last time at 75%, that tells you your room probably needs better temp control or more airflow before pushing that high again. Light wasn’t the only issue. You’re right to trust your gut over manufacturer numbers. They don’t grow in tents, we do.

At week 6, 40% @ 20" is quite low—you can definitely start increasing power now. Try bumping to 50–60% while keeping the distance the same. Watch how the plants respond over 2–3 days. Mars Hydro’s 75% at 12–18" is too much for seedlings, but by mid-veg or early flower, it’s where you should be heading. Slowly raise output or lower the light distance (but not both at once). Gradual ramp-up avoids light shock—and you’re in the perfect window to do it now.