Grow house

An indoor facility for cultivating plants, often used for cannabis production

A grow house is a property, typically a residential home, that is used primarily for the cultivation of plants, most commonly cannabis. These facilities are designed to create optimal growing conditions indoors, allowing for the control of environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. Grow houses can vary in size from small operations in a single room to large-scale commercial facilities.

History

The concept of indoor plant cultivation dates back centuries, but the modern grow house became prominent with the rise of cannabis cultivation in the late 20th century. As cannabis laws began to change, particularly in North America, the use of grow houses became more widespread.

Design and Setup

A typical grow house is equipped with specialized equipment to simulate the natural environment of the plants being cultivated. This includes:

• Lighting systems: High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, such as metal halide (MH) and high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights, are commonly used. More recently, LED grow lights have gained popularity due to their energy efficiency and spectrum control.

• Ventilation systems: Proper air circulation is crucial to prevent mold and pests. Grow houses often use exhaust fans, carbon filters, and intake fans to maintain air quality.

• Temperature and humidity control: Heaters, air conditioners, and humidifiers/dehumidifiers are used to maintain optimal growing conditions.

• Hydroponic or soil systems: Plants can be grown in soil or using hydroponic systems, which deliver nutrients directly to the plant roots in a water-based solution.

Legal Considerations

The legality of grow houses varies widely depending on the jurisdiction. In regions where cannabis cultivation is legal, grow houses must comply with local regulations regarding plant count, security measures, and licensing. In areas where cannabis remains illegal, grow houses are often subject to law enforcement action.

Risks and Challenges

Operating a grow house involves several risks and challenges, including:

• Legal risks: In areas where cannabis cultivation is illegal, grow houses are at risk of raids and legal action.

• Fire hazards: The extensive use of electrical equipment increases the risk of fire.

• Mold and pests: Poor ventilation and high humidity can lead to mold growth and pest infestations.

• Energy consumption: Grow houses can consume large amounts of electricity, leading to high operational costs and potential detection by authorities.

Environmental Impact

Grow houses can have a significant environmental impact due to their high energy consumption and water usage. Efforts to mitigate these impacts include the use of energy-efficient lighting, water recycling systems, and renewable energy sources.

Also see

• Cannabis cultivation
• Hydroponics
• Indoor gardening
• LED grow lights
• Cannabis laws