Artificial Lighting: What Types are Right for My Plants?
“What you plant now, you will harvest later.”
Artificial light can be a great way to supplement natural light for your houseplants, especially during the winter months when days are shorter and the sun is weaker and if there isn’t much natural sunlight in your home. Here are a few tips for giving your houseplants artificial light:
1. Choosing the Right Type of Light
Not all artificial lights are created equal when it comes to their suitability for houseplants. The best type of light for houseplants is one that emits bright, white light with a color temperature of around 6500K. This type of light closely mimics the natural sunlight that plants need for photosynthesis. Some specific types of lights that are well-suited for houseplants include:
LED (light-emitting diodes): LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and produce very little heat, making them an excellent option for houseplants.
Fluorescent lights: Fluorescent lights are also energy-efficient and produce a bright, white light. However, they can be more expensive than LED lights and may need to be replaced more frequently.
High-intensity discharge (HID) lights: HID lights, such as metal halide and high-pressure sodium lights, produce a very intense light that is ideal for plants that need a lot of light, such as tropical plants. However, HID lights can be expensive to purchase and operate, and they produce a lot of heat, so they are not always the best option for home use.
2. Placing the Light Close to Your Plants
The closer the light is to your plants, the more light they will receive. However, it is important to be careful not to place the light so close that it will scorch your plants. A good rule of thumb is to place the light about 6 inches away from your plants. If you are using a high-intensity light, you may need to place it even further away.
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3. Using a Timer to Turn the Light On and Off
Your plants need darkness to rest, so it is important to turn the artificial light off at night. A timer can help you to do this automatically. Set the timer to turn the light on in the morning and off at night, and your plants will get the light they need without you having to worry about it.
4. Rotating Your Plants
If you only have one artificial light, it is important to rotate your plants so that they all get a chance to bask in the light. This will help to prevent them from becoming lopsided. Simply rotate the pots of your plants every few days so that they are all facing the light.
Here are some additional tips for giving your houseplants artificial light:
Use a light source that is specifically designed for plants. These lights have a spectrum that is tailored to meet the needs of plants.
If you're using a regular light bulb, choose one that is full-spectrum.
Place the light source in a spot where it won't be blocked by furniture or other objects.
Turn on the light for 12-16 hours each day.
Monitor your plants for signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. If you see any signs of stress, adjust the lighting accordingly.
As advocates of green living, we at The ZEN Succulent would love to hear your stories about how indoor plants have influenced your life. Share your experiences in the comments below or tag us on social media with your indoor garden photos. Let’s spread the word about the healing power of plants!
Words By The ZEN Succulent
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