Artificial Lighting
Posted: Thu Jul 09, 2009 4:06 pm
I searched the forums, but couldn't find anything on the subject.
I have in the past successfully (somewhat) cultivated VFT'S, Sars, and Pings under 4- 40watt flourescent bulbs approx. 10" above the plants.
The VFT'S were pretty good, but I think overwatering for the conditions, and too cool of temperatures had something to do with fungal problems and a certain lack of overall 'hardiness.' I would adjust the lighting times with Nature to induce dormancy, btw.
I know that there is no substitute for Out of Doors, but in Tornado alley, We get everything, Hail, high winds, torrential rains, etc. and I'm not always home to put them inside when such events occurr.
Our awnings on the house are too big to let direct Sun into our home in the Summer especially.
I can't afford a green house right now.
For indoors, Do some people put heating pads under the trays or should I simply go with halide lighting to help with raising the temperatures to where VFT'S like. I know they thrive in warm temps AND tons of light.
Which lighting system is better for photsynthesis? My 4 flourescent setup with the proper bulbs, or a good metal halide bulb of equal wattage as the 4 tube system?
Thanks !
Gary
I have in the past successfully (somewhat) cultivated VFT'S, Sars, and Pings under 4- 40watt flourescent bulbs approx. 10" above the plants.
The VFT'S were pretty good, but I think overwatering for the conditions, and too cool of temperatures had something to do with fungal problems and a certain lack of overall 'hardiness.' I would adjust the lighting times with Nature to induce dormancy, btw.
I know that there is no substitute for Out of Doors, but in Tornado alley, We get everything, Hail, high winds, torrential rains, etc. and I'm not always home to put them inside when such events occurr.
Our awnings on the house are too big to let direct Sun into our home in the Summer especially.
I can't afford a green house right now.
For indoors, Do some people put heating pads under the trays or should I simply go with halide lighting to help with raising the temperatures to where VFT'S like. I know they thrive in warm temps AND tons of light.
Which lighting system is better for photsynthesis? My 4 flourescent setup with the proper bulbs, or a good metal halide bulb of equal wattage as the 4 tube system?
Thanks !
Gary