Grow Lights Vs. Natural Light

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By Ronnie Daniels
eHow Contributing Writer

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Sunlight naturally contains different colors, or frequencies, of light that plants need for growth and fruiting. Natural light is best for plants in most areas, but grow lights provide proper light for indoor plants and hydroponic gardens.

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Natural light

Natural Light

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Young plants crave blue light.
Natural light contains all the colors needed by plants and animals for healthy growth and reproduction. Photoreceptors are cell structures in plants that are sensitive to different light wavelengths.

Color Spectra

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Spectra
Plants use the blue spectrum of light for growth. Blue wavelengths promote leafy growth. Red and orange wavelengths are absorbed readily by chlorophyll and cause flowering and fruiting.

Grow Lights for Growth

A 6500K fluorescent grow light is the most cost-effective type to use for promoting healthy seedling and plant growth. It radiates strongly in the blue-green light wavelengths.

Grow Lights to Promote Flowering and Fruit

Fluorescent lights in the 2700K to 3000K range are desirable for flowering and fruiting plants. These lights emit strongly in the red wavelength and promote higher yields in fruiting plants.