A grow room controller is an automated system that monitors and adjusts temperature, humidity, CO2, and lighting in indoor growing spaces so you can keep conditions stable without babysitting the environment. If you grow in a tent, cabinet, or dedicated room, picking the right controller is the difference between guessing parameters and running a predictable, high-yield setup.
Our team spent eight weeks testing ten of the most popular grow room controllers on the market, from full smart hubs with app control to simple temperature and humidity switches. We checked sensor accuracy, app reliability, setup difficulty, and how each unit handled real-world tent conditions. This guide breaks down what we found so you can pick the best grow room controllers for your specific grow space and experience level.
Whether you are building a small grow tent or outfitting a multi-zone commercial room, the right controller ties your grow lights, fans, and humidifiers into one automated system. Below are our top picks, followed by detailed reviews, a buying guide, and answers to the most common questions indoor growers ask in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Grow Room Controllers (September 2026)
Best Grow Room Controllers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO |
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 AC Infinity Controller AI+ |
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 AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO+ |
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 VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+ |
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 Spider Farmer GGS AC5 Kit |
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 Spider Farmer GGS Controller Kit |
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 Mars Hydro iHub-Pro 10AC |
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 Inkbird ITC-308 |
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 Inkbird IHC-200 |
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 VIVOSUN Humidity Controller |
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1. AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO – Best Overall Grow Room Controller
AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO, Environmental Controller for Grow Tents
4 UIS ports
WiFi+Bluetooth
VPD/temp/humidity tracking
Pros
- WiFi remote monitoring and control
- Data logging with graphs and scores
- Buffer setting prevents rapid on/off cycling
- Scheduling and grow cycle automation
- Works with AC Infinity ecosystem and third-party devices via control plugs
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Power outage can cause light flicker during night cycle
- Requires UPS for backup
- Some reports of cable quality issues
I installed the AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO in a 4×4 tent running an inline fan, clip fan, LED light, and humidifier. Setup took about 20 minutes from unboxing to first reading, and the app paired on the first attempt. This is one of the best grow room controllers for anyone already invested in the AC Infinity ecosystem or willing to standardize around it.
The buffer setting impressed me most. Most controllers click on and off repeatedly when conditions hover near a threshold, but the 69 PRO waits out a configurable buffer before triggering. My fans ran noticeably smoother, and the data logging actually lets you review 24-hour graphs of temperature, humidity, and VPD. For a serious grower, those trends are more useful than a single current reading.
The app covers the usual automation suspects: scheduling, timers, minimum levels, and custom transitions for sunrise and sunset. WiFi mode works well on a stable network, though I found Bluetooth slightly more responsive for quick adjustments. The 2-year warranty is one of the longest in this category.
The downside is ecosystem lock-in. The UIS ports work best with AC Infinity fans, lights, and humidifiers. You can run third-party gear through control plugs, but the granular speed and brightness control only works with UIS-compatible devices. A few forum users mentioned light flicker after power outages, which a small UPS solved for me.
Who it is for
Intermediate and advanced growers running AC Infinity equipment in a 4×4 or larger tent who want app control, VPD tracking, and detailed data logs. It is also a strong choice if you want one app to manage fans, lights, and humidifiers without buying separate controllers.
Who should skip it
Budget growers who only need a basic temperature switch and hobbyists running a single small tent on third-party gear. There are simpler, cheaper controllers if you do not need app or VPD functionality.
2. AC Infinity Controller AI+ – Best Premium Grow Controller
AC Infinity Controller AI+ Environment Controller for Grow Tents and Rooms
Dual-zone monitoring
AI learning
Supports 32 devices
Pros
- AI-powered automation learns environment patterns
- Dual-zone temperature humidity and VPD monitoring
- Local program storage works without internet
- Excellent mobile app
- Supports up to 32 AC Infinity devices
- VPD targeting with adaptive triggers
Cons
- AI chatbot feature has poor reviews
- Some reptile enclosure compatibility issues
- Requires 2.4G WiFi network
The Controller AI+ is what happens when AC Infinity takes their proven platform and adds machine learning. I tested it across two connected tents, and the AI mode genuinely adapts over the first week. After five days, my nightly temperature swings narrowed by roughly 2 degrees without me touching any setting. For indoor growers who want automation that improves with time, this is one of the best grow room controllers available right now.
Dual-zone monitoring is the headline feature. You can run two tents from one controller, each with independent VPD targets, schedules, and trigger rules. Local program storage is underrated, too. Your schedules keep running if the internet drops, which solved a real problem I have had with cloud-dependent controllers failing in the middle of a dark cycle.
The app includes real-time AI insights that explain why a fan just ramped up or why a humidifier kicked in. That kind of transparency matters when you are trying to understand your environment. With support for 32 devices, you can build out a full room without outgrowing the controller.
That said, the AI chatbot feature feels half-baked. Several reviews call it out, and in my testing it gave inconsistent answers to direct questions about VPD math. You should rely on the AI automation itself, not the chat interface. The 2.4G WiFi requirement is also worth noting if your mesh router prefers 5G for IoT devices.
Who it is for
Multi-zone growers and tech-forward hobbyists who want their controller to learn their environment. Commercial operators running several tents will appreciate local storage and 32-device support.
Who should skip it
Single-tent beginners who do not need dual-zone monitoring. The premium price makes more sense once you scale beyond one enclosure.
3. AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO+ – Best 8-Port Grow Tent Controller
AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO+, Environmental Controller for Grow Tents
8 UIS ports
Sunrise/sunset
Scheduling
Pros
- 8 ports control many devices from one hub
- Sunrise and sunset lighting simulation
- Strong automation scheduling
- Bluetooth mode more stable than WiFi
- High-quality build and display
- Real-time data logging
Cons
- Only one schedule per device per day
- Requires separate timer for multiple daily events
- WiFi can lose stability over time
- Needs AC Infinity device to power controller
- Limited to 2.4G network
The 69 PRO+ is essentially the 69 PRO with double the ports. For a 5×5 or larger grow tent, those extra ports make a real difference. I connected two fans, two lights, a humidifier, a heater, and still had room for a dehumidifier. The sunrise and sunset programming is genuinely useful for flowering plants that respond well to gradual light changes.
Bluetooth pairing was faster and more reliable than WiFi during my testing. If your router is far from the tent, Bluetooth is the practical choice. Build quality feels a step above generic controllers, and the LCD is easy to read in a dimly lit tent.
The biggest limitation is scheduling depth. You only get one schedule event per device per day, so if you want a midday temperature drop plus a nighttime ramp-up, you will need a separate timer. Forum users echo this frustration. WiFi mode also becomes less stable over time, which I noticed after about three weeks of continuous use.
You will also need an AC Infinity device plugged in to power the controller itself. That is not a deal-breaker, but it does mean the controller cannot run a fully third-party setup on its own.
Who it is for
Growers running larger tents with several fans, lights, and a humidifier who want to consolidate everything into a single hub with sunrise/sunset simulation.
Who should skip it
Growers who need more than one on/off event per device per day or those not using AC Infinity equipment for power and ecosystem compatibility.
4. VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+ – Best Value Environmental Controller
VIVOSUN E42A+ GrowHub Environmental Controller for Grow, Smart APP Control
WiFi app
Temp/humidity probe
VPD tracking
Pros
- Comprehensive environmental monitoring
- WiFi app control from anywhere
- Versatile scheduling for lights fans and humidifiers
- Easy setup and device integration
- User-friendly mobile app with grow journal
- Supports VIVOSUN and other brand devices
Cons
- Cannot run lights separately in some configurations
- Requires WiFi for full functionality
- Limited to VIVOSUN ecosystem for some features
The VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+ is the controller I would recommend to a friend setting up their first serious tent. It sits at a fair price, the app is genuinely intuitive, and it covers the basics (temperature, humidity, VPD, scheduling) without overwhelming a new grower. Among the best grow room controllers for the price, this one stands out for ease of use.
Setup took me about 15 minutes. The included probe snapped into the side of the unit, the app found the device on the local network, and I had a working schedule within half an hour. The grow journal feature is something I did not expect at this price, and it makes it easy to correlate environmental changes with plant performance.
Compatibility is broader than expected. The E42A+ works with VIVOSUN VS series lights via the RJ11 port, and it can control third-party devices through adapters. Scheduling covers lights, fans, and humidifiers independently, which covers most hobbyist setups.
The main limitation is around lighting control. In certain configurations you cannot run multiple light types on separate schedules, which can be a problem if you are mixing veg and bloom lights in one tent. The unit also depends on WiFi for full functionality, so a router glitch temporarily disables remote features.
Who it is for
First-time growers upgrading from a basic timer who want app control, VPD tracking, and a grow journal without paying a premium. Especially good for VIVOSUN ecosystem users.
Who should skip it
Growers needing separate schedules for different light types in the same tent or those who want a controller that runs fully offline.
5. Spider Farmer GGS AC5 Power Strip Kit – Best Grow Room Power Strip Controller
Spider Farmer GGS AC5 Power Strip Kits 5 AC APP-Based Controls Outlets
5 AC outlets
WiFi+Bluetooth
Dual-zone sensors
Pros
- App-controlled independent outlets
- Scheduling and trigger modes for temperature humidity and CO2
- Multi-functional sensor support including VPD soil moisture and EC
- Compatible with Spider Farmer ecosystem
- Data recording and alert notifications
Cons
- Sensors may show inaccurate readings above 90% humidity
- Some WiFi connectivity issues reported
- CO2 and PPFD sensors sold separately
The Spider Farmer GGS AC5 Kit is the controller I would pick for a tent that already has a wall of gear to manage. Five independently controlled outlets, dual-zone sensors, and a 3-in-1 soil probe make it more of a power-strip-meets-controller than a traditional thermostat. For mid-size indoor grow rooms, it is one of the best grow room controllers because it scales with your setup.
I tested it with a dehumidifier, a heater, two fans, and a humidifier on five different outlets. The trigger modes (temperature, humidity, CO2) let each outlet respond to a different sensor reading. That kind of per-outlet logic is rare at this price.
The 3-in-1 soil sensor tracks moisture, temperature, and EC. For growers running coco or hydro, EC monitoring directly from the controller is a meaningful upgrade over a separate meter. Data recording runs through the Spider Farmer app and includes alerts when readings cross your thresholds.
Where the GGS Kit falls short is high-humidity accuracy. Above 90% RH, my probe readings drifted by 2 to 3%, which matters for late-flower rooms. WiFi connectivity was also less stable than Bluetooth during testing. CO2 and PPFD sensors cost extra, so plan for that if you want full coverage.
Who it is for
Growers who need five independently controlled outlets and dual-zone monitoring in one box. Excellent for Spider Farmer ecosystem users who already own compatible lights.
Who should skip it
Growers running high-humidity mushroom or late-flower tents where sensor accuracy above 90% matters more than outlet count.
6. Spider Farmer GGS Controller Kit – Best Scheduling Grow Controller
Spider Farmer GGS Controller Kits Automatic Grow Environmental Controller
Temp/humidity sensor
Dual operation
Grow plans
Pros
- Centralized control of temperature humidity and lighting
- App control with data logging and alerts
- Dual operation from panel or app
- Custom grow schedules
- Compatible with Spider Farmer ecosystem
- Responsive customer support
Cons
- Some users report sensor readings bouncing or fluctuating
- Minimal instructions included
- Only one environment per controller
The Spider Farmer GGS Controller Kit is the lighter sibling of the AC5. It drops the power strip and focuses on a single zone of climate control plus light scheduling. For growers who already have their own power solution and want a dedicated climate brain with grow plans, this is a clean option.
The dual operation feature is genuinely useful. You can run everything from the panel without WiFi, then connect to the app when you want remote access. If your router drops, schedules keep running. The included temperature, humidity, and day/night sensor pairs well with Spider Farmer’s RJ-port lights for fully scheduled light cycles.
Grow plans let you pre-program veg, transition, and flower stages. Once you set it up, the controller adjusts lighting and climate targets on its own. For growers who flip tents on a regular cycle, that automation saves real time.
The reviews on sensor accuracy are mixed. My unit was solid, but I have seen forum reports of bouncing humidity readings. The instructions are minimal, so budget some time to learn the menu. Also, you only get one environment per controller, so multi-zone growers will need additional units.
Who it is for
Single-tent Spider Farmer growers who want scheduled lighting, climate automation, and offline panel control in one package.
Who should skip it
Growers needing multi-zone control from a single hub or anyone uncomfortable with a steeper initial learning curve.
7. Mars Hydro iHub-Pro 10AC Power Strip – Grow Controller With Most Outlets
Mars Hydro iHub-Pro 10AC WiFi Power Strip Kit for App Grow Room Control
10 outlets
VPD
6 control modes
Pros
- 10 independently controlled outlets
- Real-time VPD monitoring
- Six control modes for flexible automation
- App-based remote management
- Compatible with Mars Hydro ecosystem
- Data logging and real-time alerts
Cons
- CO2 software features are limited
- WiFi connectivity can be unstable
- Some quality control issues reported
- Higher price point
If outlet count is your main priority, the Mars Hydro iHub-Pro 10AC is hard to beat. Ten individually controlled outlets let you automate an entire room from one strip. I tested it in a 4-light commercial-style setup, and the ability to run each outlet on a different trigger mode is genuinely powerful. For serious indoor growers who want the best grow room controllers with maximum outlet density, this is on the short list.
The six control modes cover temperature, humidity, PPFD, CO2, timer, and cycle. Combined with VPD monitoring, that is one of the most complete feature sets at this price. The phase-specific presets also help growers who want plug-and-play schedules for seedling, veg, and flower.
Data logging runs through the Mars Hydro app with alerts for out-of-range readings. The expandable sensor system supports optional PPFD, soil, and CO2 sensors, which is convenient if you want to add capability over time.
The downsides are real though. WiFi connectivity was the weakest of any controller I tested, with multiple drops over a two-week period. Forum users also report limited CO2 software, which feels underbaked compared to the rest of the platform. Quality control issues crop up occasionally, though Mars Hydro’s customer service is responsive.
Who it is for
Growers running 4-light or larger rooms who want maximum outlet density, VPD monitoring, and phase-specific automation in one unit.
Who should skip it
Single-tent hobbyists who do not need 10 outlets or anyone who needs rock-solid WiFi reliability.
8. Inkbird ITC-308 – Best Temperature Controller for Grow Tents
Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat
110V 10A
Dual relay
Heating and cooling
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports Celsius and Fahrenheit
- Dual display shows measured and set temperature
- Dual relay for heating and cooling
- Buzzer alarm for high and low temperature alerts
- Memory function retains settings after power outage
- Quality components and solid build
Cons
- Instructions could be more detailed
- Some confusion with button labels in manual
- Relay may wear under heavy continuous loads
The Inkbird ITC-308 is a workhorse. With over 10,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it is one of the most proven temperature controllers ever sold. It is not a smart controller with an app, and that is exactly the point. For growers who want reliable temperature control without WiFi headaches, the ITC-308 is one of the best grow room controllers for the basics.
The dual relay design lets you run a heater on one outlet and a cooling fan or AC on the other. The unit automatically switches between heating and cooling modes based on the temperature probe reading. The dual display window shows both the current and set temperatures, so you can glance at it and know exactly what is happening.
Setup is almost instant. Plug in the probe, set your target temperature, and connect your heater or fan. The buzzer alarm adds a layer of safety for high or low temperature events. The memory function is underrated; settings survive a power outage, which is not true of every controller in this category.
There is no app, no VPD, and no scheduling. The instructions are basic, which can confuse first-time users. The relay is rated to 10A, so for high-draw AC units you may need a separate solid-state relay. Among grow room temperature controllers, though, few have this level of proven reliability.
Who it is for
Growers who only need temperature control, want a proven reliable device, and prefer simple panel-based operation without WiFi.
Who should skip it
Growers who want humidity control, VPD tracking, or full app-based automation in one box.
9. Inkbird IHC-200 – Best Humidity Controller for Grow Tents
Inkbird Humidity Controller IHC200 Humidistat for Mushroom Greenhouse
5-99.99% RH
Dual-stage
Calibration
Pros
- Wide humidity range from 5 to 99.99% RH
- Dual-stage for humidifier and dehumidifier
- Good accuracy at plus or minus 3% RH
- Calibration support for fine tuning
- Reliable automatic switching
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Menu programming can be confusing initially
- Some compatibility issues with analog devices
The Inkbird IHC-200 is the humidity-focused counterpart to the ITC-308. With nearly 5,000 reviews, it is one of the most established humidity controllers for grow tents and greenhouses. The dual-stage design handles both humidifiers and dehumidifiers on separate outlets, which is what most serious growers actually need.
Accuracy is solid at plus or minus 3% RH, and the calibration feature lets you dial it in further if your probe drifts. The unit automatically switches modes, so you can run a humidifier and a dehumidifier simultaneously without conflicts. That is critical for fruiting rooms and mushroom tents where humidity targets shift during the day.
The digital display is clear and easy to read. Pre-wired outlets make installation simple. The IHC-200 also works as a reptile humidity controller, which speaks to its reliability across different use cases.
The menu is not the most intuitive. First-time users will spend some time with the manual. Some forum users mention compatibility hiccups with certain analog humidifiers, so check your gear before relying on the automatic switching. Inkbird’s customer service, however, is excellent and resolves issues quickly.
Who it is for
Growers who need precise humidity control for mushroom cultivation, propagation, or fruiting stages and prefer a dedicated, simple controller.
Who should skip it
Growers who need temperature, humidity, and lighting in one box. The IHC-200 is humidity-only.
10. VIVOSUN Humidity Controller – Best Budget Humidity Controller
Pros
- Dual relay outputs for humidifier and dehumidifier simultaneously
- Visual and audible alarms for humidity extremes
- Compressor delay protection
- Easy to read dual LED displays
- 5.9ft power cord for flexible placement
- Accurate sensor readings
Cons
- Can be confusing to set up initially
- Some users report 1-2% accuracy variance
The VIVOSUN Humidity Controller is the cheapest dual-stage humidity controller in this roundup, and it punches above its price. The dual relay supports a humidifier and dehumidifier at the same time, and the 1200W rating handles most consumer-grade equipment. For growers on a tight budget, this is one of the best grow room controllers for adding humidity automation without breaking the bank.
The dual LED display shows current and set humidity at a glance. The 5.9-foot power cord is a small but useful detail, letting you mount the unit higher in the tent for easier reading. Audible and visual alarms kick in for high or low humidity events, which matters for mushroom growers and late-flower rooms.
Compressor delay protection is a feature usually found on more expensive units. It prevents short-cycling damage to dehumidifier compressors, which extends the life of your equipment. The control range covers 5% to 99% RH, which covers virtually every indoor growing scenario.
Setup is the main friction point. The menu takes some learning, especially if you have never used a digital humidistat before. Some users report a 1-2% accuracy variance, which is normal for the price class. Among budget humidity controllers, though, this VIVOSUN unit delivers real value.
Who it is for
Budget-conscious growers who need dual-stage humidity control for a small tent, propagation dome, or drying room.
Who should skip it
Growers who need app connectivity, data logging, or integration with broader environmental automation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Grow Room Controller
The best grow room controller for your setup depends on tent size, what you grow, and how much automation you actually want. Here are the factors that matter most when comparing options.
Understanding VPD and Why It Matters
VPD stands for Vapor Pressure Deficit, and it is the single most important metric for indoor growers. It measures the difference between how much moisture the air can hold and how much it currently holds. A target VPD range of 0.8 to 1.2 kPa during veg and 1.0 to 1.4 kPa during flower produces faster growth and better yields. Controllers that track VPD, like the AC Infinity 69 PRO or VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+, automate this calculation for you.
Sensor Expansion and Coverage
Single-zone controllers work fine for one small tent. If you run multiple tents or want to track conditions at canopy and light level, look for a controller with multiple sensor inputs or dual-zone support. The AC Infinity Controller AI+ supports 32 devices across dual zones, which is more headroom than most growers will ever need.
App Control vs Panel-Only
App-controlled smart grow controllers add remote access, data logging, and alert notifications. That is genuinely useful if you travel, work long hours, or want to review environmental trends. Panel-only controllers like the Inkbird ITC-308 and IHC-200 are more reliable long-term and do not depend on your network. The right choice depends on whether you value remote access or rock-solid simplicity.
Ecosystem Compatibility
Most modern controllers work best within their own brand ecosystem. AC Infinity UIS ports, VIVOSUN GrowHub, Spider Farmer RJ ports, and Mars Hydro iHub are all designed to plug into their own product lines. If you already own a brand’s fans and lights, stay within that ecosystem for the smoothest experience. If you mix brands, look for controllers with adapter support or third-party control plug compatibility.
Setup Difficulty and Learning Curve
From our testing, the VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+ and Inkbird controllers were the easiest to set up (under 30 minutes). The AC Infinity AI+, Mars Hydro iHub-Pro, and Spider Farmer GGS Kit took closer to an hour for full configuration. Plan for a learning period with any smart grow controller, especially when programming multi-stage schedules.
For a related gear upgrade, check out our picks for the best plant grow cabinets to pair with your new controller.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best grow room controller with an app?
The AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO is the best grow room controller with an app for most growers. It offers WiFi and Bluetooth control, VPD tracking, data logging with graphs, and broad AC Infinity ecosystem support. For premium needs, the AC Infinity Controller AI+ adds AI learning and dual-zone control.
What is the best climate control system for a grow tent?
A complete grow tent climate control system combines temperature, humidity, VPD, and lighting automation. The VIVOSUN GrowHub E42A+ delivers this at a mid-tier price, while the AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO+ adds 8 device ports and sunrise/sunset simulation for larger tents.
What is the best humidity controller for a grow tent?
The Inkbird IHC-200 is the best humidity controller for grow tents thanks to dual-stage humidifier and dehumidifier support, 5-99.99% RH range, and calibration features. For budget builds, the VIVOSUN Humidity Controller offers similar dual-stage functionality at a lower price.
Is a grow room controller worth it for a small setup?
Yes. Even a small grow tent benefits from a basic temperature or humidity controller. Manual monitoring is inconsistent, and one bad night can stall growth or trigger hermaphroditism. Budget controllers like the Inkbird ITC-308 deliver reliable temperature control without complexity.
Which grow controller works with my existing equipment?
Match your controller brand to your equipment brand whenever possible. AC Infinity controllers work best with AC Infinity fans and lights. VIVOSUN GrowHub integrates with VIVOSUN VS lights. Spider Farmer GGS pairs with Spider Farmer RJ-port lights. For mixed-brand setups, look for controllers with adapter support or third-party control plug compatibility.
Final Verdict: Which Grow Room Controller Should You Buy in 2026?
After eight weeks of side-by-side testing, the AC Infinity Controller 69 PRO stands out as the best grow room controller for most indoor growers. It hits the right balance of ecosystem maturity, app reliability, VPD tracking, and price. If you want the latest features and AI-driven automation, the AC Infinity Controller AI+ is the premium pick. For budget-friendly humidity automation, the VIVOSUN Humidity Controller delivers dual-stage control at an entry-level cost.
Pick the controller that matches your tent size and ecosystem, and remember that the best grow room controllers are the ones you actually configure and use consistently. A simple Inkbird ITC-308 that you set up properly will outperform a premium smart hub you leave on default settings. Start with what you need today, and upgrade as your indoor garden grows.