How to Choose the Best Lighting for Your Greenhouse

Choosing specific greenhouse lighting can be somewhat tricky. Here are five important factors to consider when making your selections.

1. Type of greenhouse — Before buying greenhouse lighting, you must understand the kind of greenhouse that you have. Is it a commercial greenhouse or a personal one? Knowing what type of greenhouse that you have will determine what kind of lighting to choose. For instance, if you have a commercial greenhouse, it is best that you buy lighting that is created to endure humid, adverse conditions that are commonly found in commercial conservatories. Research your options before making any purchase.

2. Length of use — The duration of light use in greenhouses based on a “photoperiod”— the period in which the light will be used may vary. For example, you may use lighting for a “12-hour photoperiod.” This means that within 24 hours cycle, lighting will be used for 12 hours and 12 hours with no light at all. It is important to buy a light that meets your specific usage needs. Find out what your needs are before making your selections.

3. Purpose — Buy a light that will focus on your desired results. For instance, if you want to motivate the growth of your orchids, it is best to buy a light that will put more weight on the “spectrum colors” like the red, blue and the “far-red wavelengths.” The colors of the light have notable effects on the plant growth. Not all light will produce the desired results. Talk to experts before purchasing.

4. Electrical efficiency — Opt for lighting products that provide optimum effect without having to compromise the amount of energy that they consume. It’s better to buy lights that are efficient and can still conserve as little energy as possible. Ensure that the lighting you buy meets your electrical efficiency requirements.

5. Heat — Remember that lighting should only be used where it is needed. A light that emits more heat as it releases light can be very harmful. Too much heat on a plant will trigger its death. For example, it’s not a good idea to buy an incandescent bulb because it gives out too much heat. Make sure you understand how much heat each lighting option produces before purchasing.

Lighting is an important factor in a plant’s development. Carefully consider the kinds of light you use in your greenhouse in order to ensure the quality of plant growth that you want to achieve.