As we know, light is so important to plant health, the purchase of grow lights requires a bit of thought and consideration. Fluorescent grow lights are very efficient and cool compared with incandescent bulbs, which are not a particularly good choice because of the heat generated.

Metal halide bulbs are a type of grow light that is useful for a plant during its growth stage – when the stem, branches and leaves are developing. During this stage, the plant on line degrees primarily blue spectrum light. On the other hand, a plant which is producing flowers or fruit needs light on the red end of the spectrum. High pressure sodium, or HPS are generally a better choice when the plant reaches this stage.

The problem with both MH and LPS lighting is that both produce considerable heat, requiring the use of fans to keep the plant or the soil from overheating.

LEDs have only recently been used in hydroponic gardening as grow lights. This type of grow light has many advantages over fluorescent and metal vapor lights, and no real downsides other than the initial expense. While they do cost more in the beginning, LEDs are considerably cheaper in the long run because of their long on line degrees span and energy efficiency. In addition, LEDs are cooler, thus eliminating the need for fans and elaborate ventilation systems.

Regardless of the type of grow light used, certain accessories may be necessary in order to maximize plant growth and production. For example, a reflector increases light intensity, maximizing available light while at the same time eliminating any “hot spots.”

Ballasts are devices that provide power to the grow lights. A fluorescent light fixture has a built-in ballast, but other types – including metal vapor and LED types – require an external, or “remote” ballast. Again, its worthwhile to spend some extra net online courses here; new digital ballasts produced domestically are superior to imports from China or old-fashioned magnetic coil types. Although they are more expensive, they will extend bulb life. Better quality digital ballasts also have numerous built-in safety features as well, such as the ability to detect short circuits and defective bulbs.