Episode 1: Re-Amending Soil, EarthBox Setup & Seed Starting

We’re back with Season 9 of the 10×10 series, and this episode is all about getting everything set up for a successful run. From re-amending soil to dialing in the environment, this is a full behind-the-scenes look at how we prepare the entire system before plants even begin to grow.

In this episode, I walk through the complete setup process, including lighting upgrades, assembling and testing the new Nova Sun Series, and breaking down how I dial in power, spectrum, and PPFD. We also go deep into soil prep; re-amending the 4×4 bed, refreshing 20-gallon containers, and building out new EarthBox setups step-by-step.

I explain the importance of proper moisture, wicking systems, and how to build a thriving top layer using compost, amendments, and mulch strategy to create a living soil environment that can support explosive growth.

To wrap it all up, we move into seed starting. I share my simple, repeatable germination method using cocoa coir and a humidity dome to maximize success rates; especially when working with high-value seeds.

This is a full kickoff episode showing everything that goes into preparation, so you can follow along and build your own system the right way from day one.

Disclaimer:
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. BuildASoil is dedicated to teaching the art and science of soil-based growing. Always follow your local laws and regulations.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Intro
00:18 – Season 9 Kickoff: Goals, Schedule & Series Overview
03:40 – Seed Selection: Why We Chose Blueberry Muffin for Faster Side-by-Side Grows
08:25 – Lighting Upgrade & Unboxing: Choosing the Best Grow Light for Season 9
12:34 – Light Build & First Impressions: Assembling the Nova Sun Series
17:53 – Mounting the Driver & Updated Bracket Design Explained
19:59 – Power, Spectrum & PPFD Test: Dialing In the New Light
23:31 – Re-Amending the Soil: Measurements, Method & Bed Prep
26:40 – Soil Prep in Action: Removing Roots, Adding Amendments & Compost
45:38 – EarthBox Setup Guide: Assembly, Watering System & Mulch Cover Tips
51:38 – Filling the EarthBox: Soil Prep, Moisture Control & Wicking Setup
1:00:14 – Building the Top Layer: Amendments, Compost & Mulch Strategy
1:05:39 – Final EarthBox Setup
1:10:02 – Episode Recap & Seed Starting: Prepping, Soaking & First Look at Soil Life
1:13:01 – Seed Germination Method: Cocoa Coir, Dome Setup & Step-by-Step Planting
1:25:12 – Final Thoughts

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Music: Rebel by LionRiddims