How to Grow With Black Lights

Grow plants with a combination of different lights.

Black lights don't have the strongest effect on plant growth when compared with other types of lights, but you can still use black lights in combination with other lights to create a full spectrum of light for your plants. The black light gives off a low glow that isn't enough to sustain a plant alone. Plants may grow underneath a black light, but they won't grow as quickly and they may become droopy and die faster, so it's vital that you use a variety of lights to give your plants the best start.

Things You'll Need

• UVA black light lamps
• Table
• Red light lamp
• Blue light lamp

Instructions

1. Place your plant on a stable table within your home and set a plugged in UVA black light lamp on the table next to the plant so the light emits directly on the plant. This type of black light can complement other lights.

2. Set a red light lamp on the table and turn it towards the plant to create a wider spectrum of light.

3. Place a blue light lamp next to the plant from another angle or install a large hanging blue lamp above the plant. The combination of black, blue and red lamps should provide enough light to help your plant thrive and grow.

Tips & Warnings

• Plants can grow under UVA black lights, but avoid buying UVB black lights because these types of black lights can damage the plant.

References

• California State Univeristy: Growingn Plants Under Different Types of Light
• Schoelles: Does Light Color Affect Growth and Phototropism of Lima Bean Seedlings?
• University of Ilinois: Q & A: Lights for Plants
• McDaniel Edu: The Nature of Light