Grow Lights for Plants: How to Get the Most Out of Them

A lot of hobbyists and backyard gardeners are discovering that grow lights for plants can help them enjoy the fun year-round while promoting stronger, healthier growth. Getting the most out of this affordable, effective design does call for a little work and know-how.

Grow lights for plants that are designed using LED bulbs are among the easiest and most affordable for at-home use. These simple designs provide the energy required for photosynthesis to promote plant growth while costing very little to purchase or operate. All that’s really required is the right bulb and any lamp big enough to accommodate the size of the LED light.

Tips for Getting Mileage Out of Lights

To get the most out of grow lights for plants, hobbyists will want to consider these things as they set up a growing area:

• The space required – This can vary greatly based on the plants being grown, the number involved and the stages of growing that are intended to take place indoors. While grow lights for plants might work well on a small tray table for a single box of seedlings, a much larger space – and more lights – will be required for those same plants if the desire is to bring them to maturity indoors. Keep the space requirements in mind when setting up a place for grow lights for plants.
• The amount of lights needed – Ideally, grow lights for plants will provide enough light coverage to ensure that every plant receives the energy needed for photosynthesis. That means a single houseplant or a small tray of seedlings might only need one light, but multiple larger plants will have greater demands to ensure full coverage.
• Proper placement – Grow lights for plants should be placed directly above the plants. The spacing, however, can vary based on the plant in question and the power of the bulb. Be sure to read manufacturer instructions closely to ensure plants receive enough light.
• Proper support – Grow lights for plants cannot do it all. That means growers will still need to provide nutrient rich soil, water and exposure to nighttime conditions, as well. How long lights should be left on will vary based on the plants in question and their needs for exposure.

Grow lights for plants provide an affordable way for anyone to grow indoors. The key is establishing the light setup properly from the start for the plants being grown and then following up with routine care.