How to Set Up Grow Lights
Also called plant lights, grow lights are a necessity for gardeners who desire to grow plants and flowers indoors. These lights imitate the sun's rays and provide the necessary light that plants needs for proper germination and growth. Grow lights vary in wattage and emit different types of light, depending on the intended plants. Although indoor grow lights are not hard to use, there are several considerations to plan for when setting them up to ensure that they are most effective. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Choose a location for the grow light. To use the light for a single plant, any counter top is sufficient.To use the light for multiple plants, choose an out-of-the-way location that is near an electrical outlet.
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2
Decide what type of bulb to purchase for the grow light. Newly planted seeds and seedlings require a softer florescent bulb. Once plants are established, switch to a high-intensity discharge bulb for optimal plant growth.
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3
Decide how much wattage the bulb should emit depending on how many plants there are. Place all of the plants side by side, and use a measuring tape to measure the total length and width of the area that the plants take up. Multiple the length measurement by the width measurement to determine the total area size. Select the proper wattage using the following chart taken from Indoor-gardening-guide.com:
100W = 2 feet by 2 feet
250W = 3 feet by 3 feet
400W = 4 feet by 4 feet
600W = 5 feet by 5 feet
1000W = 6 feet by 6 feet -
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Attach a reflector to the grow light, and then insert the bulb. A reflector ensures that all of the emitted light is directed at the plants instead of being directed at a wall or ceiling.
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If using a florescent bulb, adjust the light so that it is 12 inches away from the plants. When using a high-intensity discharge bulb, check the bulb packaging for proper distance requirements.
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Set the grow light timer so that each plant receives 18 hours of light followed by six hours of darkness. Seeds and seedlings require constant light until the first set of leaves appear. Most grow lights are equipped with timers; however, inexpensive light timers can also be purchased at any home improvement store.
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Secure all light cords away from the plants and water sources.
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Tips & Warnings
Grow lights emit a significant amount of heat, so do not place them near thermostats or other areas of the home where heat is not desired.
If the area in which the grow lights are located is enclosed, such as a shed, you may need to install additional fan ventilation to prevent the temperature from rising too high.
