Plant Lighting

How to Use Plant Lighting

Using grow lights correctly is essential for healthy plant growth. The three most common types are CFL grow light, T5 grow light bulbs, and LED plant lighting. Positioning is key—lights should be placed at the optimal distance to prevent burning or insufficient light exposure.

• CFL grow lights: Ideal for small indoor gardens, these should be placed 6-12 inches above plants.
• T5 grow light bulbs: Best for seedlings and young plants, keep them 2-4 inches away.
• LED plant lighting: Highly efficient and powerful; position them 12-24 inches above plants, depending on wattage. SunBlaster LED Strip Lights are particularly effective.

How to Use Plant Lighting for Seedlings

Seedlings require intense, consistent light to develop strong roots and stems. Position T5 grow light bulbs or CFL grow light as close as 2-4 inches from the seedlings to prevent stretching. LED plant lighting such as the Bright 80w LED Grow Light should be kept at a minimum distance of 12 inches to avoid overwhelming young plants with excess light intensity.

How Much Does Plant Lighting Cost to Run?

The cost of running grow lights varies depending on wattage, daily usage, and electricity rates. LED plant lighting is the most energy-efficient, consuming 40-50% less electricity than traditional lighting options.

To estimate the running cost:

1. Check the wattage of the grow light (e.g., a 100W LED).
2. Multiply by daily usage hours (e.g., 16 hours per day = 1600W or 1.6kWh/day).
3. Multiply by your local electricity rate (e.g., 1.6kWh × $0.15 = $0.24 per day).

CFL grow lights and T5 grow light bulbs generally consume more power than LEDs but remain cost-effective for small-scale setups.

How Long to Leave Plant Lighting On

The duration of light exposure depends on plant type and growth stage:

• Seedlings & leafy greens: 14-16 hours per day
• Vegetative plants: 16-18 hours per day
• Flowering plants: 12 hours per day to simulate seasonal changes

Use a timer to maintain a consistent schedule and prevent overexposure. Monitor plant health—too much light can cause leaf burn, while too little results in weak growth.

By selecting the right grow light and optimizing usage, you can achieve healthier, more productive plants while minimizing energy costs.