GrowlyBox setup requires no tools and takes most users under 30 minutes. This guide walks through every step, from opening the box to planting your first seed.
What's in the box
- GrowlyBox cabinet body (fans and carbon filters pre-installed)
- 75W full-spectrum Samsung LED panel
- ESP32-CAM sensor module (DHT22 + soil moisture probe + 2MP camera)
- Power adapter and quick start guide
1. Pick the right spot
The cabinet fits a 35 × 35 cm footprint; a flat surface near an outlet is all you need. An 18–26°C room away from direct sunlight is ideal. At under 22 dB it is quiet enough for a bedroom or study. Leave 40 cm of clearance in front for the door.
2. Install the LED panel
The panel slides onto the rail in the cabinet ceiling. Seat the connector until you hear a click. Thanks to the modular design, the panel can be removed or swapped in one motion later.
3. Place the sensor module
The temperature and humidity sensor comes pre-mounted. All you do is push the soil moisture probe 3–4 cm into the pot. The camera is angled to face your plant; check the framing from the app with the first photo.
4. Pair the app
Download the GrowlyBox app and plug in the cabinet. The app discovers it over local Wi-Fi or Bluetooth — no internet connection, no account. Your phone just needs to be on the same Wi-Fi network during pairing. All your data stays on your device.
5. Choose a plant profile
The app ships with ready-made profiles for tomatoes, basil, lettuce, peppers, strawberries and more. Selecting a profile automatically configures the light schedule, fan speed and watering reminders. Every parameter can also be tuned manually.
6. First planting
Starting with soil? Use standard potting mix, sow seeds at the depth the packet recommends and moisten the soil lightly. For hydroponics, see our nutrient solution guide. Close the door after planting — the isolated design runs the photoperiod cycle independently of your room.
What to expect in week one
Germination takes 3–10 days depending on the crop: lettuce and microgreens sprout in 3–5 days, tomatoes and peppers in 7–10. Avoid opening the door frequently; a daily check through the camera is enough. If the soil surface looks dry, wait for the app's watering reminder — overwatering is the most common first-week mistake.
3 common setup mistakes
- Forgetting to insert the soil moisture probe (the app shows a "no sensor" warning)
- Placing the cabinet next to a radiator or AC vent (temperature swings delay germination)
- Running the light longer than 18 hours on day one (14–16 hours is plenty for seedlings)
If you get stuck at any step, our WhatsApp support line is open. Every module is covered by its own warranty — set up with confidence, plant, and wait for your first harvest.