One downside of this type of fluorescent light is that they will usually require a ballast to regulate current and the tubes will require a stand instead of a conventional socket (all in one systems including stands and ballasts can be purchased but will usually be more expensive).ĬFL's have light peaks in the blue (425-450 nm) and red (600-700 nm) spectra (above) Source Another advantage of fluorescent tubes? They are relatively thin and can fit well into small spaces. More details below: 1) Fluorescent Tubesįluorescent tubes come in a variety of intensities, more efficient and longer lasting than incandescent bulbs but not as intense as HPS lighting (discussed later). There are two main types of fluorescent bulbs: Fluorescent tubes and Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL's). Fluorescent lights will commonly be used for growing vegetables and herbs indoors. Fluorescent Lights (CFL) Can fluorescent lights grow plants? We will discuss why incandescent light for urban farming will never be the best idea at the end of this post, but first. The three main categories of grow lights are 1) Fluorescent lights 2) high-pressure sodium (HPS) sometimes referred to as HID (High intensity discharge) 3) light emitting diodes (LED) Incandescent lights (common light bulbs) can also be used.

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