Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
high heat output by using a good ventilation system. When considering an HPS light bulb,
look for a light bulb that offers the full light spectrum.
Metal halide bulbs is another alternative to HPS and LED lights. Metal halide bulbs are
great for vegetative growth but considering that both the HPS and the LED lights can be
used for the entirety of the grow they are generally recommended. If you have decided to
use a HID light bulb, a ballast is required for consistent light output.
After deciding what type of light bulb to use, you also need to calculate how many watts
you will need for your grow area. It is recommended to have between 50-80 watts per
square foot when using a HID light bulb and 40 watts per square foot when using an
LED lamp. Calculate the needed wattage for your grow room by multiplying for instance
60w*(your square footage).
Reflecting the light source for optimal growth
The use of reflective materials is highly recommended when setting up a cannabis grow.
Lining the walls with aluminum foil is one of the most common ways of reflecting light
when growing cannabis in a closet/homemade growbox. When using a grow tent, the walls
are already covered with reflective material.
If you are using a HID light bulb you will need to buy a reflector for your lights which will
reflect the light towards your cannabis plant. For LED growers the reflector is not needed
considering that the LED lights are already focusing the light towards the plants. A suspen-
sion system is also required when growing cannabis, it might be included when buying the
reflector hood, and if not, it can be acquired cheaply.
