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A Closer Look at the Types Of Grow Lights
There are many resources available that suggest that plants can be grown with lights, the best tech for doing so and several case studies that come from credible sources. The following are the basics and will ensure that indoor growers gravitate towards the right direction.
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Fluorescent
Fluorescents have been used for several applications and they are still widely popular for the winter months when the light needs to be supplemented. During this period, they promote the flowering capabilities of plants and they are also great for germinating seeds as well. Most of the time, fluorescents are the most cost-effective solution for indoor lighting.
They even provide plants with the proper intensity that is required when compared to incandescent bulbs. However, many lighting setups can be purchased with fixtures, frames, lamps or even the bulb alone. Fluorescents also produce less heat which can be harmful if present in high amounts. In the case of HID's and incandescent lights, more heat is created.
Some of the main types of bulbs are as follows:
*CFL - these are small compacted bulbs
*T5 and T8 - the T means tubular and they tend to range in different diameter sizes. T5's are more popular within the growing industry. However, some people still use T8 since they are a bit cheaper.
If you're in the beginner phase of indoor growing, the T5 is one of the best solutions.
LED Grow Lights
Light Emitting Diodes - these have become widely popular within the last decade. One of the mains reasons that keep drawing growers to LEDs is the fact that they are cost-effective and they require less energy. HID's and fluorescents tend to use much more energy when in use. LEDs can also produce a pretty small degree of heat which doesn't harm your growing plants.
LEDs are also known for their long-lasting capabilities and little electricity consumption. However, purchasing this unit is somewhat expensive. Seasoned growers admit that while they may be expensive, LEDs actually save them in the long term aspect. In essence, they offer high efficiency with lower energy usage.
In order to provide the most accurate comparison, we've reviewed an article that suggests that plants grow and flourish better in fluorescent light. As we progressed, we were able to also view the reply of a trusted LED supplier who stated why LEDs didn't perform.
Since the previously mentioned experiments took place, LED technology has significantly advanced and now they are widely recommended within the growing community. Growers even boast about the capabilities of new and improved LED lights. With that said, we're in no position to say buy any specific type.
Several units are sold and they come in a wide variety of sizes to suit your needs. You can even easily purchase CFLs and fluorescent if you desire. The main issue between them is simply the coverage cost. Longer fluorescent tubes tend to cover more space and they cost much less.
One of the main things to consider when using lights is the appearance of your plants. While LEDs don't look attractive indoors, fluorescents look pretty great for indoor settings.
You will also want to ensure that you have good soil, you can buy Redbud living soil if you feel your soil could be improved.
High-Intensity Discharge (HID)
The two main forms of HID are High-Pressure Sodium and Metal Halide. These are also often used for indoor gardening. When it comes to which is the best, that simply depends on the type of plant being grown along with the color spectrum and the desired yields.
If we get into the topic of light intensity, HID lamps usually provide the highest intensity. If you're interested in an average set up, the bills that come with HIDs will be out of your range. These are used by more advanced growers.
So if you're planning to soon become a serious indoor grower, HIDs are the way to go.
About the Author Laura Bennett
Hello, I’m Laura Bennett. I love nature especially when it comes to flowers and different kinds of plants. I started a very small garden behind my house and I named it Humid Garden. So, I created this blog to provide aspiring and inspiring thoughts about gardening for gardeners and anyone who has the intention of keeping a garden.
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