Grow Lights
A brief introduction to metal halide vs. high pressure sodium grow lights. Finding the best plant grow lights takes a little bit of know-how. WeI'll guide you through the two most popular types of grow lights. Metal halide and high pressure sodium lights usually do the trick for most growers.

Posted Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Finding the best plant grow lights takes a little bit of know-how. WeI'll guide you through the two most popular types of grow lights. Metal halide and high pressure sodium lights usually do the trick for most growers.

For the grower who works exclusively indoors, metal halide grow lights usually work best. These emit wavelengths that trigger development of leaves and compact growth. Generally, the only indoor grower who might not use metal halides is the grower who has a lot of extra space.

High pressure sodium lights are designed to provide lights to plants which feel the sun. Greenhouse kits often use plant grow lights to extend the blooming season by several months. High pressure sodium lights emit wavelengths which trigger plants to flower and bud.

The wattage of your plant lights depends heavily on the growing area. The lowest you should go is 100 watts, and that's only for an area of four square feet. The wattage needed depends greatly on the area, so it's best to consult a chart for the most accurate lighting possible.