yep there is def a learning curve, i know these things because i have experienced them. i have made the same mistake myself, now these things are second nature. i recommend purchasing a good grow book, personally i have an Ask Ed (Ed Rosenthal) two versions of Indoor Marijuana Horticulture (Jorge Cervantes) a copy of Guerilla Growing (Jorge Cervantes) and a stack of high times three feet high. i would recommend any of these books or authors. i have read every one cover to cover about 10 times, and i still use it for reverence, especially when diagnosing problems and pest. having a good grow book will drastically decrease your learning curve and get you to bigger better buds sooner. also with a reputable book you dont have to worry about the misinformation that you could get online or from well meaning friends. good luck