So you've decided to try your hand at hydroponics? It's easier than it looks! Get the run down on the different types of grow lights and get growing!
Whether you lack outdoor space or just prefer to have your plants at arm’s reach, growing your plants indoors can be the perfect solution for experienced and newbie gardeners alike. And with new developments in grow light technology, growing healthy plants indoors is easier than ever. There are several different types of grow lights on the market today, so read on for help choosing the perfect lights for your indoor oasis.
Fluorescent
Fluorescent lights are some of the most popular grow lights today. Besides being the most economical type of grow light on the market, they can be used for a variety of purposes including seed starting, propagation, and keeping plants alive throughout the winter. Fluorescent grow lights are very energy efficient, often lasting up to 20,000 hours—hence why they’re so popular with homeowners.
These lights, however, are much less intense than their HID or LED counterparts, so they aren’t the best for growing large indoor gardens. Ideally, fluorescent grow lights are used to supplement natural light, not replace it. They come in cool, warm or full-spectrum—many growers recommend full-spectrum fluorescent grow lights as they won’t distort the colors of your plants.
High Intensity Discharge (HID)
These are the brightest and strongest grow lights available today. HID grow lights are popular since they can be used to supplement existing light as well as replace it in low light areas such as garages and basements. Of the two types of HID bulbs, metal halide bulbs emit a strong blue-toned light which is perfect for promoting leaf and vegetative growth, while high-pressure sodium bulbs emit orange/red light which promotes flowering. If you’re aiming to have beautiful blooming plants, high-pressure sodium bulbs are your best bet.
LED
The newest type of grow light technology, LED grow lights are quickly gaining ground in the hydroponics world due to their smaller size and energy efficiency. They can last upwards of 50,000 hours, which means you won’t have to change them for years! Additionally, they can be placed quite close to plants since they do not give off heat like other types of grow lights.
LED lights also don’t require ballasts, making them a great choice for beginners to both hydroponics and light systems. Blue-toned LED lights are ideal for ‘vegging’ your plants, while red/orange toned bulbs are perfect for stimulating flowering plants to bloom.
Whatever your reasons for growing plants indoors, we have the grow lights you need for a healthy and beautiful indoor garden. It’s easier than it looks to start growing indoors, so get started today!
