Everything You Need to Know About Plant Grow Lights
Green plants generally require the presence of light to grow. The process of converting this light to nutrients is often termed photosynthesis. The plants convert energy from such light into sugar, a nutrient for growth. In the absence of sunlight, plant-growing lamps can seamlessly be used to improvise. Plants usually require varying amounts of light, and such plants' uniqueness makes the prospect of plant grow lights interesting. You must deplore these plant-growing lamps the right way to get good results.
This guide gives you useful hints that will help you select the best plant-growing lamp for your plants.
Factors to consider before buying plant grow lights
Lighting intensity: This goes a long way in determining how your plants fare when exposed to these plant-growing lamps. The lighting intensity refers to the amount of light that travels from the source of light to a specific surface. Certain plants do not fare well when the lighting intensity is high. On the other hand, some plants are perfectly suited to high lighting conditions. You must decide if you want a high or low-intensity lighting source for your plants.
Lighting color: The science of plant growth using light sources includes the color range of the lighting source. Certain light colors stimulate growth in plants, while other colors simply result in stunted growth. In most cases, blue light results in vegetative growth in plants. Also, red light stimulates the production of fruits and flowers in those plants. You can always opt for full-spectrum lights that have most of these colors. You could also pick a specific color if you're looking to stimulate a particular section of the plant's growth.
LED or fluorescent lamps: It's often tough to choose between both lighting types as they both provide full-spectrum lighting to plants. However, there is a small difference between LED and fluorescent lamps, and you must know those differences. Usually, LED lamps are better for plants as they emit less heat and stimulate growth in plants.
Durability: It's not okay for you to change your plant grow lights every now and then. You must pick a lighting option that will stand the test of time while in use. There's a high chance that the lamps will always be in use; go for a durable one.
Efficiency: Certain plant-growing bulbs consume huge chunks of electricity units when in use. The cost of servicing these bulbs could prove difficult, especially if you're not running a large-scale garden. Check the power rating of the plant-growing lamp to determine if it's okay for use.
Advantages of plant grow lights
- These lamps are relatively inexpensive
- They're earth-friendly and extremely efficient
- Plant grow lights allow you to keep indoor plants.
- These lamps enhance growth in your plants by stimulating the roots and stems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I leave the lamps on?
The lighting needs for different plants vary. However, most plants require around 10 to 15 hours of lighting per day.
What is the best position to place plant grow lights?
The best position to place these lamps is right over the plant beds. That way, you get to expose all parts of the plant to light.