Staff Answer
Oct 26, 2020 - 11:15 AM
There are many varieties of grow lights to choose from with different sizes, looks, and purposes. Read on to explore the pros and cons of the most popular types of grow lights.
- Recommended: full spectrum white LEDs
- Emit bright light but very little heat so as not to "cook" plants
- Energy efficient and low-cost in the long-term
- Recommended: T5 tubes
- Can be fairly cheap in the short-term
- Bulbs have a shorter lifespan than LEDs
![](https://data3.answerbase.com/answerbase/12004/UserFiles/Answers202010/questionImage-1-26062151.jpg)
High-Intensity Discharge (HID) and Metal Halide
- Recommended for large, commercial grow operations
- Produce the highest amounts of light and heat
- Consume the most energy and result in expensive electric bills for the entire life of each light
WHICH GROW LIGHT SHOULD I GET?
With so many grow lights on the market, there are a lot of good options available for a wide range of growing conditions. We've tested out a bunch and three came out on top in different divisions. Our reviews are unsponsored and based solely only on our own experiences during trials.
For small setups: Sansi LED Bulb
- Dimensions: 4.5"W bulb in an 8.5"W reflector lamp
- Price: $26 bulb + $10 reflecting clamp lamp
- Brightness: 1,600 lumens
This is a versatile bulb of full spectrum, white LEDs that you can plug into the lamp of your choosing (we use this one). It is only big enough to light a few containers of succulents or several plants that already get some natural sunlight. We love the adaptability of this little bulb and how inconspicuously it works in the home.
For large setups: Durolux LED Panels
- Dimensions: 4.0'L x 1.9'W with adjustable chains for hanging and a 6.0'L power cord
- Price: $71
- Brightness: 14,000 lumens
If you want to keep a lot of succulents indoors, this is a high quality and affordable option. 8 square feet is enough room to accommodate a generous collection of plants. It works well hanging above a shelf, though all of the plants under it should have similar light needs. There is also a brighter panel available with twice as many LED pieces for $90. We like the brighter version for full sun varieties like Echeveria and cacti.
For classy setups: Soltech LED Aspect
This small, hanging can light is one of the most stylish we've seen on the market. It provides enough light for a couple medium-sized plants and looks great doing it. Soltech also offers a larger light for $200 that produces 4,000 lumens of light.
|
An outlet timer makes growing succulents under grow lights incredibly easy. You can program it to turn on and off automatically at any times you like. It makes it easy to adjust the duration of "daylight" throughout the year and keeps your plants on a regular photoperiod, even when you're away.
Genesis 6.0" Clip FanGood airflow helps enormously in the prevention of pests and disease, but it can be difficult to achieve indoors. These small fans are powerful but quiet and can be clipped unobtrusively around your plants.
Even with the perfect airflow and soak/dry watering schedule, pests can happen. If bugs do find their way into your pots, 70% isopropyl alcohol is an easy, all-purpose treatment that kills insects without harming your plant. It's also readily available at pharmacies. Using a spray bottle, coat the entire plant, being sure to get between the leaves. Repeat daily until the pests are gone.
We hope you enjoy bringing succulents into all corners of your work and home. For more tips and additional resources, check out:
Add New Comment![Sending...](https://mountaincrestgardens.answerbase.com/images/loading-boxes.gif)