Hydroponic grow lights
While they can be easily grown using the absence of soil, hydroponic plants still need two other items to survive - water and light-weight. Thanks to the developments in agricultural technology, plants no longer need to be placed in areas that receive adequate sunlight. Growers and hobbyists may choose from LED (light emitting diode) grow lights, HPS (underhand sodium lights, or MH (metal halide) lights. Although there are other lighting alternatives out there, these three are the most popular among hydroponic gardeners.
Apple iphone 4 History of Hydroponics
Contrary to popular belief, hydroponics' origins have been very old. Before the term being coined, ancient cultures have already practiced a rough version of this growing technique. It's even declared the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are in fact, one of the oldest known hydroponic gardens.
Hydroponic technology however, only became popular in the 19th century, after researchers found that plants absorbed mineral nutrients as inorganic ions in water, which essentially meant that they did not need any soil in any respect.
Light Still Important
While hydroponic gardening provides growers and hobbyists to be able to grow plants, fruit and veggies inside the comforts of these homes and with no mess that comes with soil, lights are still very necessary. To ensure that photosynthesis to occur, plants need every one of the light they can get. Hydroponic lights work as an alternative to sunlight, and in addition allow hydroponic gardens to become placed virtually anywhere at home. As mentioned earlier, you have a amount of choices when it comes to hydroponic lights, each with its share of positives and negatives. Each light is directed at gardeners with different needs, so it is best to determine your lighting requirements before you make any choices.
Which Light is made for you?
From the 3 main hydroponic lights, which is the right one for you? Metal halide lamps are miniaturized versions of the streetlights littered along streets and freeways. Despite their small size, they boast of a lot of power without eating your electric bill. Unfortunately, you could have to spend more on the special fixtures essental to these lights.
Questionable sodium lights are created for mature plants that are at the flowering stage. Despite using little energy, HPS lighting is very powerful-they also go very far. However, because HPS lights produce higher lumens, in addition they generate more heat. Expect you'll install fans and hoods for cooling down your garden.
LED lights are prized for their power-saving qualities. These bulbs eat the least electricity, and provide little, to no heat whatsoever. For plants that want warm environments, LEDs are certainly not recommended. If you choose to go the LED way, anticipate to cough out cash to set up more lights.