Using Fluorescent Grow Lights For Gardening Success

If you have ever done any serious gardening, you likely eventually got to the point where you wished to beat nature at its own tricks. Growing seasons can be extremely fickle and, as a serious gardener, you need things to be a bit more measurable.

There mare many reasons to use fluorescent grow lights. Whether you plan on growing an entire crop in your greenhouse or just want to get a jump start on a short growing season, there are lights that will meet your needs.

Seed starting is one of the most common reasons to use artificial light for your indoor plants. It is possible to get adequate results if your home or workshop has a large south facing window. However, most people do not have enough light in their growing area and will need to supplement with fluorescent grow lights.

Even those who do have a lot of natural sunlight may find that their plants do better with added light. Baby plants require up to 16 hours of direct light for maximum viability and that amount is rarely available in early spring. Houseplants can also benefit from additional light.

There are many products to choose from. For a small set up, you can buy a grow light that comes on its own stand. This sits over your growing area, providing light for your plants. These are available in widths of 24 or 48 inches and can support the plants needed for an average sized garden. Grow lamps are often made with a full spectrum light bulb, making them an effective option.

For larger areas, many growers use diy kits and make their own set up of fluorescent grow lights. Surprisingly, this can be as simple as hanging a standard fluorescent shop light over the area. This is the most affordable solution for a large group of plants. Some basic handy man skills are useful, but almost anyone can figure out the simple installation.

Besides seed starting, greenhouse gardening can also benefit greatly by supplementing with fluorescent grow lights. In an indoor garden, your plants aren't always getting direct sunlight and will often need more hours of light in order to compensate. Whatever your particular reasons, using supplemental light in your gardening can offer many benefits.

Your baby plants will grow more quickly and have thicker stems. In the greenhouse or with indoor plants, you will experience an increase in efficiency in photosynthesis and faster maturity as the plants accumulate more heat hours. With just a bit of added effort, you can easily beat nature at its own game and get better results with your garden.

Bookmark this page

Delicious Digg Facebook Google Bookmarks Stumbleupon