CO2 TABS

Description

CO2 TABS are the simple, no-equipment CO2 supplementation solution for small grow rooms, propagation tents, and growing spaces where a CO2 generator or compressed gas system is impractical or over-specified. We have been recommending CO2 tabs to UK home growers since 2017 as an accessible starting point for CO2 enrichment — the single most impactful environmental upgrade available to growers who have already optimised light, temperature, humidity, and nutrition.

How CO2 Supplementation Boosts Plant Growth

Atmospheric CO2 is typically around 400 ppm — the carbon source that plants use for photosynthesis. Increasing CO2 concentration in a well-lit, temperature-controlled grow room to 800–1,200 ppm allows the plant’s photosynthetic machinery to operate at higher efficiency, processing more light energy into biomass per unit of time. Studies consistently show 20–40% increases in growth rate and yield potential in optimised growing environments where CO2 is elevated above ambient. CO2 tabs release CO2 through a controlled chemical reaction when moistened — no tanks, regulators, or electrical equipment required. Place tabs in a bowl of warm water in the growing space and allow the gentle CO2 release to supplement ambient levels during the lights-on period.

Managing CO2 Tabs in Your Growing Space

CO2 supplementation is only beneficial during the lights-on period when photosynthesis is active. Place moistened tabs in the growing space at light-on time and remove spent tabs at lights-off. CO2 tabs are best suited for grow rooms up to approximately 1.5m x 1.5m where the enclosed space allows the released CO2 to accumulate to useful levels; in larger or well-ventilated spaces, the CO2 dissipates too quickly for a significant concentration increase. Reduce extraction fan speed to the minimum needed for temperature control during CO2 supplementation to prevent the enriched air from being exhausted before plants can use it.

Combine CO2 Tabs with a CO2 monitor, a digital thermostat to manage extraction speed, and a fully dialled-in nutrient programme for a comprehensive approach to maximising yield in an optimised growing environment.