What has light technology got to do with growing indoor plants?
Want to grow indoor plants? Find out how light technology can help.
Do you look forward to growing plants for the sheer pleasure of watching something magical happen from a handful of seeds? But, do you face a struggle in growing plants indoors, especially if you are looking to improve your indoor air quality?
If yes, then you should consider how using artificial lights (or grow lights as they are popularly known) can help you achieve success in growing plants indoors. Let’s look at what light technology has got to do with growing indoor plants.
1) Artificial lighting technology has been used successfully in large-scale horticulture practices to grow plants
LED lighting has been successful in horticultural applications resulting in improved productivity and energy efficiency. For example, GE Lighting has used advanced LED lights to illuminate a farm in Japan, resulting in the production of 10,000 heads of lettuce on a daily basis. Furthermore, Purdue University and McGill University have published studies showing the positive effects of LED lighting on flowers and tomato production.
If you are looking to reap the benefits of high-yield LED lights for your planting needs, then you should consider BIOS lights that provide energy-efficient white lighting solutions that will have a positive effect on your indoor plants.
2) What should be the wavelength of light for your indoor plants?
When it comes to growing and blooming your plants, you should keep in mind that:
- Red wavelength light to help flowers and fruits bloom.
- Blue wavelength light to help foliage growth.
- Green wavelength lights are not of use for plants as they reflect them back.
So, it would be best if you try looking for lights that offer a mix of warm and cool wavelengths.
3) How long should you leave lights on for your plants to get maximum benefits?
Studies have shown that the amount of daily light exerts profound effects on the growth of plant species. When it comes to your own plants, you should keep in mind that your indoor plants get more hours of light than what they would naturally get outdoors.
It’s essential to ensure that your indoor plants get anything between 14 to 18 hours of artificial light on a daily basis. But, do not leave the lights on 24×7, as plants need a minimum of six hours of darkness each day.
4) How should you install grow lights?
The installation requirements for grow lights will depend upon your indoor garden and the type of bulbs you intend to use. But, here are a few pointers.
Decide how many bulbs you should install
The majority of edible plants need at least 30 watts for every square foot of foliage. However, vegetable plants (such as tomatoes), need at least 40 to 50 watts for every square foot.
To identify your requirement, multiply the total square feet your growing area needs by the number of watts (between 30 to 50 watts) and then divide the watts supplied by the bulbs you are planning to use
Prepare a light rack
It would be best if you supported the light bulbs above your plants at an appropriate height with the help of a light rack. It is also a good idea for you to make an arrangement to raise the height of the light rack when you see the plants are growing. You can use a pulley system or hang the light fixtures with the help of a chain.
Add any necessary accessories
Consider getting a timer for your lights to turn on and off for the time period you are looking to use them. A ventilation system will help reduce heat stress produced due to lights. You can also look into reflectors and other accessories to get optimum results.
This article is meant to serve as an introduction on how you can use light technology to grow an indoor garden. The points we’ve mentioned should help you create your own indoor garden of eden in no time!
