understanding different grow lights
“ OF ALL the possible
options in grow lights , the sulfur plasma light is touted to emit light in frequencies and wavelengths closest to that of the sun .”
These lights are also favored because of their long life and efficiency . They have been shown to last more than 50,000 hours , with efficiency usually ranging from a low of 38 per cent to a high of more than 50 per cent . They are also extremely useful for growers because some LED lights can emit light in specific ranges of wavelengths to support plants during their vegetative and blooming phases . Light emitting diodes do not require the addition of any kind of reflector , as the light is directly emitted towards the plants and not dispersed like other types of grow lights . A 2014 study conducted by researchers at Purdue University showed that LED lighting was more effective for development of commercially viable bedding plants than HPS lighting . This study included popular annuals such as geraniums , impatiens , petunias , salvia , and others . The main obstacle for growers is the relative high cost of LEDs . The cost of LEDs , however , is dropping as they continue to be produced in higher volumes by more manufacturers . A current study released this year in the journal HortScience cites that it still costs five to 10 times as much to set up a new LED grow light system as compared to a new HPS system . Another drawback of LED lighting is one of its selling points . Because far less light is lost or scattered with LED beams , it is not necessarily the best choice of lighting for larger operations . These lights can be thought of as more surgical while HID lighting is designed for saturation . Small grow operations will likely see more benefit with a switch to LEDs than their larger counterparts .
Sulfur Plasma
Sulfur plasma lights are the new kid on the block in the world of grow lights . Their high cost will keep them out of the hands of the casual grower for a while until market factors kick in based on their effectiveness for supporting plant growth . Many units currently sell for thousands of dollars each .
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