Category: Plants

  • What Is An Action Spectrum

    What Is An Action Spectrum

    If you are wondering what an action spectrum is, we’ve got you covered here. Getting to know about the action spectrum in various plants will give you an idea of how plants make use of different lights for their development.

    The lights we see consist of various wavelengths and light has a comprehensive relationship with plants. Plants will either absorb or reflect the different colors of the light spectrum. This absorption or reflection affects the process of photosynthesis that will determine how your plants process their food.

    Now, let’s have a discussion about the role of the light absorption spectrum, light action spectrum, and how they are connected to photosynthesis. We will also talk about various plant pigments, their functions and, many more. So, let’s begin.

    Absorption And Action Spectrum

    Both absorption spectrum and action spectrum play a significant role in the plant process of photosynthesis. Let’s go further by looking at what these two entails and discuss more details on them.

    What Is An Action Spectrum?

    Firstly, let’s define what the action spectrum is. An action spectrum is an illustration (usually showed in a graph) that reveals the rate of photosynthesis at various light wavelengths. Thus, it illustrates the wavelength that propels photosynthesis.

    Action spectrum was first discovered and titled by T.W. Engelmann when he was researching on algae Cladophora. The action spectrum gives an insight into the nature of the photoreceptor involved. It also helps us understand the differences between the absorption spectrum of a known pigment. Action spectrum will illustrate the usefulness or effectiveness of light in photosynthesis.

    Maximum photosynthesis usually takes place in the red and blue light spectrum. Next, let’s take a look at what the action spectrum of photosynthesis is.

    Photosynthesis Action Spectrum

    The action spectrum of photosynthesis in any given plant will indicate high light absorption for red or violet and orange or red color spectrum. It will also show maximum light absorption in the blue region. However, it will indicate a low absorption rate for the green or yellow color spectrum.

    The colors blue and violet on the light spectrum have the shortest wavelength and the highest energy. On the other hand, red has the longest wavelength and has the least amount of energy.

    Absorption Spectrum

    The absorption spectrum will indicate all the colors of light absorbed by a given plant. It describes the electromagnetic radiation range of plant absorption. It relies on the cellular and molecular structure of a plant. So, it varies depending on the plant species.

    Absorption And Action Spectrum

    Pigments

    The pigment is a common name used for a molecule that takes in or absorbs light with color. Also, we can term pigment as any chemical compound that assimilates visible radiation between 380 nm (which is violet) and 760 nm (which is red).

    These pigments assimilate light rays from the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum known as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR).

    Now, any type of colored substance generated by a plant is known as plant pigment. There are different pigments contained in plants and they result in the different colors we see. These plant pigments give rise to leaves’ color, flowers, as well as fruits. Now the most crucial function this pigment offers is control over the photosynthesis process with plants’ growth and development.

    Plant pigments will only absorb the wavelength of light ranging from 700 nm to 400 nm. Now, this is the ideal PAR range for plants.

    Below are the 3 major plant pigments that determine plant color:

    Chlorophyll

    This pigment is one of the most important in plants because it is directly involved in the plants’ photosynthesis. Their absorbing wavelength spectrum is 429 nm and 659 nm. They are also responsible for the violet-blue and orange-red colors.

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    Carotenoid

    They are accessory pigments. Involved indirectly in photosynthesis. Even though plants can’t photosynthesize with carotenoids, this pigment can still transfer the light energy they get down to chlorophyll.

    Carotenoid pigments are photo-receptive agents that prevent harmful reactions. They are also responsible for the orange, bright yellow, and red colors in various plants, vegetables, and fruits.

    Anthocyanins

    This pigment plays a crucial role in the reproduction of plants. It as well helps by attracting pollinators and seed disperses. They are, however, not directly involved in the photosynthesis process. But just like carotenoids, they also help shield plants from harmful rays.

    Absorption Spectrum Of Chlorophyll

    Chlorophyll is a type of pigment and in nature, we have 6 types of chlorophyll. However, in plants, there are 2 major types of chlorophyll which are chlorophyll A and chlorophyll B. The region of the spectrum that plant chlorophyll absorbs differs for both chlorophylls A and B.

    Chlorophyll A and B have different roles they play in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll A is the main pigment that is involved in photosynthesis. On the other hand, chlorophyll B is a supplementary pigment that receives light energy which it will pass to chlorophyll a.

    Absorption Spectrum Of Chlorophyll

    The color spectrum that chlorophyll A absorbs is violet and orange. On the other hand, the color spectrum that chlorophyll B absorbs is blue and yellow. Both chlorophyll a and b hardly absorb the green spectrum. The green light is reflected rather than being absorbed. So, this results in the green color of most plants.

    FAQ’s

    What does action spectrum of photosynthesis indicate?

    Photosynthesis is the process that provides the energy necessary for growth and development of plants and algae. The primary role of photosynthesis is to fix atmospheric CO~2~ into organic molecules, such as sugar or starch. Carbon is stored in plant tissues during the day and it is released at night to fuel respiration. Photosynthesis uses solar energy (in the form of photons) to create chemical energy from water and carbon dioxide.

    Photosynthetic organisms absorb light energy from the environment in order to convert it into chemical energy. In plants, this is realized by the light-harvesting complex (LHC) II and the reaction center (RC). The RC is the part of LHCII that contains the primary quinone electron acceptor Q~A~.

    The action spectrum is the distribution of photons that excite a biological reaction or process. The spectrum of the light that reaches the Earth’s surface is called the solar spectrum, and its shape is modified by absorption and scattering in the atmosphere and the Earth’s surface .

    What action spectrum indicates is the rate of photosynthesis.

    How does the light spectrum affect plant growth?

    Plants need a certain amount of energy in order to grow and thrive. This energy is provided by the sun. The energy that plants receive from the sun varies depending on how the light spectrum is. This means that plants grown under different light spectrums will have different growth rates. Sunlight is composed of different wavelengths of light. The spectrum of sunlight can be broken down into three main categories: red, green and blue. These wavelengths are all present in sunlight but are more or less prominent depending on the time of day and the season. In general, the more intense the wavelength, the greater the energy of the light. The spectrum of sunlight has an effect on the growth rate of plants in a variety of ways. For example, plants grown under a red spectrum of sunlight grow faster than those grown under a blue spectrum. Red light causes the plant’s photosynthetic pigments to absorb more of the light, which leads to increased plant growth. The opposite is true for blue light. Blue light inhibits the photosynthetic pigments of plants, which decreases plant growth.

    Additional Say On What Is An Action Spectrum

    We hope by now you have been enlightened on what an action spectrum is and you can see the role they play in a plant’s photosynthetic process and developments.

    Remember, the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll that determines photosynthesis lies in the blue and red regions. Also, light wavelengths within the range of 400 nm to 700 nm are utilized by plants for photosynthesis and this is the ideal PAR range.

  • Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically

    Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically

    Are you looking for the easiest plants to grow hydroponically? We’ve got the right answer for you here! We have listed 10 plants you can grow hydroponically, so read through to know your best pick.

    Growing hydroponically gives you the benefit of enjoying fresh crops and lovely house plants all year round. No matter your location or the season you’re in, you and your family can enjoy fresh yield from hydroponic indoor gardening.

    There are different varieties of plants that can be grown hydroponically, and they include vegetables, herbs, flowers, succulents, houseplants, and so on. So, go through our list of the easiest plants to grow hydroponically.

    10 Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically

    Most hydroponic growers especially beginners are usually interested in growing easy plants in their hydroponic garden so they can experience some early success. It’s a good thing to have a successful starting point when it comes to growing hydroponically. This will usually boost one’s interest and confidence.

    10 Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically

    So, here are the lists of some of the best hydroponics plants you can grow:

    1.    Hydroponic Lettuce

    One of the most popular and easiest plants that can be grown hydroponically is lettuce. They grow very rapidly and are they are so easy to care for. Lettuce loves water and requires less light, so it’s no surprise they are one of the most loved among hydroponic growers.

    2.    Spinach

    Spinach is another easy plant you can grow in your hydroponic garden. They are healthy leafy green veggies and they love cool conditions which makes hydroponic settings suitable for them.

    3.    Cucumbers

    Cucumbers are not left out on the easiest plants to grow hydroponically. Cucumber plants will grow in different hydroponic varieties such as ebb and flow, bubble buckets, and Dutch buckets. They can even grow well in a tower system. They can be grown by hobbyists and commercial growers.

    Cucumber plants are excellent vining crops and water-loving. Vining cucumbers require support as they grow and you can use a trellis. The vine variety will as well require room, especially vertical space.

    Growing Cucumbers Hydroponically

    However, if you don’t have enough space, you can go for the bushy variety. Also, you should choose a cucumber variety that is resistant to mildew as cucumbers are pretty vulnerable to the disease.

    4.    Tomatoes

    Tomatoes are another great option and they are grown at home and in a commercial greenhouse. Just ensure you supply support as your tomatoes begin to fruit and weigh more. They will grow well in drip systems and hydroponic buckets (also called bubble buckets).

    5.    Peppers

    Just like tomatoes and cucumbers, growing peppers is easy with hydroponics. all you need do is to ensure they receive adequate sunlight or supply them with good grow light.

    6.    Strawberries

    One of the most common fruits grown hydroponically is the strawberries fruits. They can be grown in a small garden and in a large-scale commercial hydroponic farm. Strawberries grow very rapidly giving you plenty of yield at a better quality rate. They are also less likely to give you any pest issues.

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    7.    Basil

    Basil herb will also grow easily in hydroponics. The fastest and easiest method of getting started with basil is to purchase basil seedlings and you can get them at any garden center around you. Then you go ahead to transplant the seedlings into your hydroponic system. Ensure you rinse off the soil carefully and thoroughly before transplanting.

    8.    Beans

    Beans will grow rapidly and require less maintenance to grow at the same time giving you abundant yield. You can grow either the bushy or viny variety. If you are concerned about space and the stress of adding support as they grow, then you should stick with the bushy variety.

    9. Carnation

    A common flower that can be grown hydroponically is the carnation flower. They can be grown in homes or in a commercial way. Their floral arrangement is so inviting and growing plenty of them in your hydroponics garden can be pretty lucrative.

    Growing Carnation Hydroponically

    10.    Watercress

    From the name, we can tell this plant is a water-loving plant. It is commonly known to be vegetables; however, their flowers are quite edible. If you want your watercress plant to transition into the flowering phase, you will require changing the nutrient to a flowering nutrient solution. Do this when the plant has grown halfway into its vegetative phase.

    Tips For Growing The Best Plants For Hydroponics

    Once you have decided the appropriate plants to grow hydroponically, you can follow these tips to guide you to grow appropriately:

      • Grow and supply your plants with good lightning.

      • The pH level of your nutrient solutions should be at the appropriate range so nutrients can be absorbed appropriately for plants growth.

      • Plants that have the same needs can be grouped and grown together. Plants such as tomatoes and tomatoes together or spinach and lettuce.

      • Always support heavy viny plants with trellis as their weight gets overwhelmed.

      • If you’re growing for cooking purposes, have in mind that a hydroponic system will produce a lot. So, ensure you plant only a couple of plants so the yield won’t be so excessive and there is minimal waste.

      • Ensure you carefully and thoroughly rinse off any soil to transplant any young plants or seedlings.

    •  

    FAQ’s

    What is the easiest plants to grow in hydroponics?

    When it comes to growing plants in hydroponics, you have a lot of choices. You can grow your plants with soil, rockwool or vermiculite. If you are just starting out and want to grow your first plant in hydroponics, you should consider growing tomatoes. They are easy to grow and there are many varieties of tomato plants that can grow well in hydroponics.

    1. Sweet Potatoes – grows quickly and requires no soil at all.
    2. Radishes – I think radishes will grow anywhere. They’re cheap to buy.
    3. Lettuce – You can get a small bag of lettuce seeds .for less than $
    4. Kale – grows like crazy.
    5. Peppers – I bought some peppers for $.99 each at Wal-Mart. I think they would be good in a hydroponic system.
    6. Parsley has been grown hydroponically for decades and is easy to grow. It is a hardy perennial that can be harvested all year long. Parsley can be grown as a cut flower or an annual vegetable.

    What plants cannot be grown hydroponically?

    It’s not easy to grow plants without soil. And, it’s even harder to grow them in a way that doesn’t require you to use potting soil or some kind of nutrient solution.
    Hydroponic gardening is a great way to grow plants in an environment that is more like the natural environment. If you have access to a greenhouse, or even a garage with a lot of sun and air circulation, you can use this method to grow a large number of plants. There are certain plants that cannot be grown hydroponically. The reason is that the roots will rot and die if the roots are not getting adequate water and oxygen.
    For starters, there are a few plants that simply don’t like the conditions inside a plastic or glass container. These include cucumbers, lettuce, and eggplants.

    Can tomatoes grow hydroponically?

    Tomatoes are very easy to grow and can be grown in most any type of container including plastic pots, so you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started. There are several ways to start your own garden. You can buy a ready-made kit from a local nursery or you can build a grow box yourself. If you decide to build your own grow box, you can use a simple plastic bucket with a lid and some growing medium to start your tomato plants. The next step is to add the soil that your tomato plants will grow in. If you plan on growing several different types of tomatoes, then you may want to purchase a large container for your growing medium. This will allow you to grow a wide variety of tomatoes. Once your grow box is complete, you can plant your seedlings into it. You should water your seedlings after planting them in your hydroponic grow box.

    Final Say On Easiest Plants To Grow Hydroponically

    We have so many options of good plants for hydroponics. However, starting with the easiest plants will make things easier especially if you’re new to the world of hydroponics. This is because some plants require technical skills and knowledge while others are pretty easy.

    Once you have learned and perfected growing some easy plants with your hydroponics system, you can then proceed to expand and work on new plants.

    All in all, ensure you have fun while growing hydroponically because growing the hydroponic way is a fun thing to do.

  • LED Light Distance From Canopy

    LED Light Distance From Canopy

    If you’re into indoor gardening, you should know that using grow lights is one key to growing successfully. One of the best grow lights to use is the LED lights and another important criterion is the grow light hanging distance. So, if you’re wondering what LED light distance from the canopy is ideal, we’ve got the answer for you here.

    If you position some grow lights too low to your plants’ canopy, they might burn your plants. On the other hand, if you hang them too high, they will grow weak and get stretched because they aren’t receiving adequate light intensity.

    This is why you must be enlightened on the right hanging distance from your plants’ canopy. So, let’s get right into it.

    Grow Light Height

    We have various grow lights in the market and you need to know exactly the type you have and their features. We have light-emitting diodes (LED) lights, high-intensity discharge light (HID), fluorescent lights, and so on.

    Each of these lights has its different characteristics. Some emit more heat and some emit lesser heat. Also, some of these grow lights offer a better spectrum than the other, and so on. But generally, LED grow light is known to emit minimal heat. This doesn’t mean LED lights can be hung very close to your plants as their spectrum can be very overwhelming and may cause your plant to bleach.

    Each of these lights needs to be positioned at different heights from your plants’ canopy. So, let’s take a look at the LED light distance from your plants’ canopy.

    Grow Light Height

    Know The Right LED Light Distance From Your Plants’ Canopy

    Now, let’s look at how close your LED grow lights should be to your plants. It may be a little tricky deciding what distance your LED light should be from your plants’ canopy. This is because all the various LED light brands vary.

    However, you can look through and follow the manufacturers’ manual first to see how your plants fair. After trying the manufacturers’ LED light distance instruction and you feel there’s a need to readjust your light, you can go ahead and do so.

    But let’s take a look at some general tips and requirements you can use in deciding the LED light distance from your plants’ canopy:

    • A general rule advises you to position your LED grow light 12 to 30 inches from your plant canopy.
    • LED light distance also varies with your grow light wattage and how powerful the light source is. A higher light wattage that has a powerful light source should be hung far from the plants’ canopy and vice versa.
    • The type of plants (either low light or high light plant requirement) will determine the distance of your LED grow light. Low light requiring plants can have their light placed high above the canopy and high requiring plants can have their light placed close to the plant.
    • Another criterion to deciding how to hang your LED grow light is reflective walls. Using reflective walls will reflect the light back to your plants thus limiting light loss from placing the grow light high. Therefore, you can position your LED light higher and not worry about light loss because they will mostly be reflected back to within your grow room or tent.

    How Far Should LED Grow Lights Be From Plants In Each Growth Stage

    Again, you should have in mind that when it comes to LED light placements, there’s no general rule. Different LED lights have their style and manufacturers’ instruction which should be tried first. So, we can now go into how far LED lights placement should be for each growth stage.

    For various plant stages, LED light placement will differ as your plant transition. If you’re using dimmable LED lights, you can simply dim the intensity for different stages. However, if you’re not making use of a dimmable LED grow light, then you have to adjust the heights as your plant transitions to different stages.

    So here are the LED Light placements suggestions for your various plant stages:

    1.    LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Seedling Stage

    The seedling stage of a plant is its most fragile stage. Thus, they will require a gentler light approach. This implies they require a lesser light intensity at their early stage and should be placed higher from the seedlings canopy.

    We recommend you do a canopy distance of about 24 to 36 inches and this will depend on the strength of your LED grow light. As your seedlings begin to germinate, you can now move your grow light closer. This will be around 2 or 3 weeks after they have started sprouting.

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    2.    LED Light Placement For Vegetative Stage

    During the vegetative phase, your LED light should be placed closer to the plant canopy. They will require light for photosynthesis and plant maturation. Increasing their light intensity at this stage will encourage strong and healthy stems and roots.

    3.    LED Light Placement For Flowering Stage

    The final stage of the plant growth cycle is the flowering stage and this is where fruit production commences. At this stage, your plant will require the LED light should be at their highest intensity for them to harden off.

    However, as you increase the LED light intensity by bringing it close to your plant. You want to keep a close eye on them. Your plants’ response will always indicate their satisfaction or displeasure with light intensity. So, do the right adjustments immediately you notice any changes in your plants.

    LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Clones

    For LED light distance for your clones, you will need to place them closer to your plants’ canopy. This is because clones require intense light for their development.

    You can position your LED grow light around 14 to 36 inches from your plants’ canopy. This distance will depend on the strength of your light and their maturity.

    LED Light Distance From Plants’ Canopy For Clones

     

    FAQ’s

    How close should my LED light be to my plants?

    It depends on your situation. There are many factors involved in growing plants. How much sunlight do you have? What kind of plants do you want to grow? What size do they need to be? Do you want to grow them in soil or hydroponics? Do you want them to grow tall or short? Some plants need lots of sun to get their nutrients, some need less.
    I would say to start small. You don’t want to get in over your head and end up in a situation where you have no idea what you’re doing. You can always add more later, if you find you need it. LED lights are generally used for indoor growing, as they are cheaper than natural lighting and can be controlled to adjust the amount of light that they give off. There are different kinds of LED lights, but the most common type is an LED strip light.

    I would say your lights should be at least 18 inches above the tops of the plants. You can adjust this as you see fit. However, this does not mean that you need to put the light exactly 18 inches up from the top of the plants, or even from the bottom of the pots. The more distance you have between the plant and the light, the better. It will also be a lot easier to move the lights around when they are further away from the plants. I would say your lights should be at least 18 inches above the tops of the plants. You can adjust this as you see fit. However, this does not mean that you need to put the light exactly 18 inches up from the top of the plants, or even from the bottom of the pots. The more distance you have between the plant and the light, the better. It will also be a lot easier to move the lights around when they are further away from the plants.

    How high should my lights be above my plants?

    Lights are an important part of the growing process. If you don’t have enough light, your plants will grow slowly and not develop their full potential. The light must be as close to the plant as possible.
    This means that if you are using a fluorescent or HID fixture, you want to raise the fixture at least 12 inches above the soil level. If you are using a T5 or T8 fluorescent, you want to raise the fixture at least 18 inches above the soil level. If you are using a metal halide or high-pressure sodium, you want to raise it at least 6 inches above the soil level.

    Do plants grow faster under 24 hours of light?

    No. The reason why they don’t grow faster is that plants have an internal clock, which regulates their growth and development according to the length of day. Plants are designed so that they can develop optimally with day lengths between 12 and 14 hours.A 24-hour day will prevent them from growing at their optimum speed. Plants have a circadian rhythm that regulates their growth and development according to the length of day.

    LED Light Distance From Canopy Final Thoughts

    The hanging distance for your LED light is crucial to your plants’ development. Ensure you get the correct LED light placement for your plants so they can flourish and won’t miss out on the best yield.

  • Grow Light Vs Regular Light

    Grow Light Vs Regular Light

    More people are indulging in indoor gardening and creating the ideal growing environment will enhance the growth of your indoor plants. Understanding the difference between grow light vs regular light is important so you can provide your indoor plants’ lights for their growing needs.

    Both lights will supply your plants with lights but the light intensity or efficiency they will supply your plants are dissimilar. So grow lights and regular lights are designed in a different manner.

    If you’ve ever wondered about what difference is there between grow light vs. regular light, we will enlighten you in this post. So, let’s begin.

    What Is A Grow Light?

    Before we look into grow light vs. regular light, let’s firstly discuss what a grow light is. A grow light is referred to as an electrical light specially designed to grow various plants. The primary function of grow light is to imitate the work done by sunlight which will ensure your indoor plants grow adequately.

    These grow lights emit specific colors that stimulate plants’ growth. However, not all lights are designed to produce the same light spectrum and they all have a different wavelength of light.

    So, some people may wonder if grow lights can be replaced with the regular lights we use at the home, office, etc. Well, the answer is yes, while in some cases it’s no.

    What Is A Grow Light

    What Are Regular Lights?

    We have a wide range of regular lights which are basically designed as an artificial light source for illuminating dark spaces. People make use of regular lights almost on a daily basis and they help us clearly in the dark.

    They are used to lighten up a room, office, etc as the sun begins to set and as the day goes dark. Regular lights are also used in the garage, the entrance of your door. Some are even used within your vehicles and so on.

    Grow Light vs. Regular Light

    It is possible to make use of both grow light and regular lights bulbs to grow your indoor plants. But what is the difference between grow light vs. regular light? Here are some comparisons between the two lights:

    1.    The Intensity Of Power Between Grow Lights Vs Regular Lights

    When it comes to power or light intensity, grow lights offer more power than a regular light bulb. You can find various grow lights with different light intensities in the market.

    Now, light intensity is needed to enhance the rate of photosynthesis. This guarantees that your plants have adequate light energy to grow. So it is paramount you provide your plants with the right dose of power intensity.

    The Intensity Of Power Between Grow Lights Vs Regular Lights

    2.    Spectrum Of Light

    Light comprises of different wavelength that makes up the spectrum of light. So, all types of light bulbs produce a certain wavelength. However, not all types of light bulbs will produce the appropriate wavelength that will mimic the sunlight which is required for plants’ growth.

    Most grow lights are specially designed to emit the right wavelength that will enhance almost all the growth stages of your plant. However, when it comes to a regular light bulb, they may only be efficient for certain growth stages of your plant.

    3.    Heat Dissipation

    Heat is an important factor to consider when deciding the type of grow light to use on your indoor plant. If the heat emitted is too much and placed close to your plant, it can cause harm to them. However, you can position your lights at a safe distance from your plants.

    The fact is most regular lights produce more heat compared to grow lights. So, if you’re using regular lights for growing, ensure you position them at a safe distance.

    4.    Durability

    The durability of grow light is usually shorter compared to regular light. This is because grow light tends to burn out quickly.

    5.    Energy Efficiency

    Most regular light bulbs are energy efficient. On the other hand, most grow light will consume a lot of energy. However, there are certain low energy consuming grow lights you can go for.

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    Different Grow Lights

    We have 3 main types of grow lights and they include:

    1. Fluorescent Grow Light

    Fluorescent grow light is one great light used to supply light energy spectrum to indoor plants. They are low emitting light, thus making them safe to be placed close to plants. The low emitting heat fluorescent light is also suitable for fragile seedlings and clones.

    However, most fluorescent lights are not as intense as HPS or LED lights but they will do a fine job with your growing plants.

    1. Light-emitting Diodes (LED)

    Light-emitting diodes are one of the most efficient grow lights you can use for your indoor plants. They are more focused and will give your plants optimal light intensity. LED grow light will supply your plant with a wide range of light spectrum for them to grow adequately.

    The light can even be positioned a little far from plants and still give your plant good lightning.

    1. High-Pressure Sodium (HPS)

    High-pressure sodium is also known as high-intensity discharge (HID) is another type of grow light you can use for your indoor plants. Although they will require much distance from plants because of their high emitting heat, they will still supply your plant with good lights for their growing needs.

    Other Types Of Grow Light

      • Incandescent Bulb: this type of light has been in existence for a long time. Incandescent bulbs are not so great because the light spectrum they produce is inefficient for plants’ growth. Thus, they aren’t appropriate for plants, especially during photosynthesis. However, they have been replaced with more efficient, durable, and safer options.

      • Halogen: halogen lights are not so great but they will still supply your plant what they need to grow.

    FAQ’s

    Can I Use a regular light as a grow light?

    Regular bulbs are fine for growing plants, but they’re not very efficient. The efficiency of the plant growth is directly related to the amount of light you put out and the length of time you expose the plants to that light. You can get a lot more bang per watt with an LED array or fluorescent tube. LEDs are a bit more expensive, but if you’re trying to save money (which is understandable) then LEDs will be your best bet. You’ll probably want to look for a fixture that mounts the light on a heat sink, so you can get a little extra cooling for your plants.

    Can any LED light be used as a grow light?

    In general, no. LEDs have a maximum current rating (for most), which means they cannot be operated at high power levels (which is the only way to get high light output). That said, you can certainly use LEDs in an environment that doesn’t require very high power, but they’re not really intended for that purpose.

    Is a grow light better than natural light?

    When you’re growing plants indoors, you don’t want to be dependent on the sun. There are a few options for indoor gardeners who need sunlight to help with their plant growth. A grow light is one of them. Grow lights are used to mimic the conditions found in nature, which makes it an ideal option for growing plants indoors. Grow lights allow you to use artificial lighting, which makes it a much more practical option than natural sunlight. This also means that you can have full control over when you turn your lights on and off. You can choose to turn your lights on during the day or at night, which gives you the best time to work with your plants. Grow lights also mimic the natural light cycle. Plants respond to changes in the natural light cycle by growing at different times of the day. By using grow lights, you can make sure that your plants get the right amount of light.

    Whats the difference between a grow light and a regular light?

    The big difference is that in a grow light, the spectrum of the light is tuned to the needs of a plant to stimulate photosynthesis. This means that the reds are higher, the blues lower, and the greens in between. It’s not the same as a regular light which has a continuous spectrum.
     The light spectrum for plants is more like that of the sun than a regular light. And the way that it works is that the blue part of the spectrum (which is the part of the light that plants need to grow) is stronger than the red part.

    Grow Light Vs. Regular Light: Conclusion

    Grow light and regular light are definitely two different lights that perform different functions.

    Grow lights are designed for plants needs while regular lights are meant for daily use in most homes. But regular lights can still provide a certain light spectrum for plants’ growth but they aren’t as efficient as grow light.

  • How To Pick Basil

    How To Pick Basil

    Did you know there’s a right way to harvest basil to ensure they flourish and you get to enjoy continuous yield?  That’s right! So, learning how to pick basil the right way is important and we will teach you how.

    The sweet aromatic and tasteful basil is one popular herb loved by many. It is a culinary herb that any kitchen lover can use for various dishes. The tasteful basil herb is even more distinguishable when grown and used fresh from the garden. Therefore, you would agree that it’s a must-have in every garden.

    When growing basil plants, how you pick them matters and we will enlighten you on this. So continue reading to find out.

    Growing Basil Plants

    There are different varieties of basil to grow, but sweet basil is the most common type of basil grown. Other types of basil include Thai basil, cinnamon basil, purple basil, lemon basil, etc.

    Basil plants can be grown both hydroponically and in an outdoor garden. However, it will only grow outdoors during summer when the soil is warm. But with hydroponics, you can grow them all year round.

    Growing Basil Plants

    Planting Basil

    To commence basil planting, get your seeds and plant them. You can plant them indoors if you wish. Preferably, you should plant them 6 weeks before the last spring frost. They are pretty frost sensitive so ensure you insulate them during freezing temperatures or bring them indoors if you’re growing with a container.

    Once the seedlings have begun yielding their first 6 leaves, trim them to the top of their second set of leaves. This will stimulate your basil plant to start branching. Thus, this will encourage the multiplication of leaves for an abundant harvest.

    Pinch off the middle shoot once it’s 6 weeks as this will prevent early flowering. And if you notice any flowers growing, simply cut them off so that the vegetative process will keep ongoing.

    Basil can be grown in flower beds or containers. For outdoors planting, ensure the soil has warmed up to about 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is crucial because heat is necessary for the growth of your basil. Choose a sunny location to plant your basil and target 6 to 8 hours full or partial sun daily.

    Read more about How Many Basil Plants Per Pot?

    AeroGarden Black Harvest Indoor Hydroponic Garden

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    Moisture is another important factor in planting basil. Basil plant loves moisture so ensure the soil is well moist but not soggy and ensure the soil should be well-draining.

    Avoid using pesticides on your basil if they’re meant for cooking as this can produce unhealthy basil leaves to be consumed. Also, avoid planting them close to a driveway or busy streets to prevent exhaust from settling on your plants.

    Once, the freezing temperature approaches, harvest your basil plants because your plants will be destroyed during this period.

    Best Way To Harvest Basil

    The following guidelines will teach you how to pick basil correctly so read on to learn.

    Best Time For Picking Basil

    It’s fine to pick basil any time of the day. However, morning is the best time to harvest basil but that does not stop you from harvesting them at period.

    Learning How To Pick Basil

    When you harvest your basil plants the appropriate way, you’re encouraging a fuller and bountiful subsequent harvest.

    Once your basil plant attains the length of 6 inches, that’s the right time to harvest: ensure your basil plant does not exceed 8 inches.

    Pick your basil from stem to stem and avoid cutting off the stem.  Be gentle as you pinch off the leaves from the stem they are attached to. Avoid using sharp tools to cut the leaves only if you will be careful enough from injuring the stem.

    Ensure you always pick the leaves from time to time to enhance more growth. However, you should avoid picking the basil leaves from the bottom stem to prevent your plant from being thin and tall as this will not encourage a healthy production.

    Don’t stop harvesting even if you don’t need the basil leaves so as to encourage continuous growth. You can pick and store the basil leaves for later use. Pinch off or remove any flower bud or flower so your basil plant can grow more leaves rather than flowers.

    Best Time For Picking Basil

    When their growing season has ended, (this is before the first frost) you can cut the stem off the ground. Harvest all your basil and bring them indoors for cooking. The excess basil leaves should be preserved for later use.

    Read more about Transferring Soil Plants to Hydroponic

    Storing Basil Leaves

    It is important you also learn how to store basil correctly. This is because it’s likely you pick the leaves regularly and excess basil might remain and you won’t want to just throw the excess basil away. So here are the two ways you can store your basil leaves:

    • Freezing: To store your basil leaves appropriately, you will need to freeze them. When you freeze them, they remain fresh and most of their tasty flavor is kept intact. You will need to pack them in a resalable airtight plastic bag to store them. Then you proceed to place them in the freezer.

    • Drying: Drying is another method of storing your excess basil leaves. However, some flavor will be lost in this process. You can dry your basil by spreading them in a shady area for 3 or 4 days. If you have done this after 3 or 4 days and they aren’t dried completely, you can finish drying them in the oven. Simply turn your oven to the lowest heat and leave the door slightly open. Turn them regularly for an even drying till you achieve all your basil leaves all dried. When they are done drying, put them in a dry paper bag and keep them in a warm place like your kitchen cupboard.

    • Storing Fresh Basil In Water: If you wish to cut the stem of your basil, you can place them inside a glass jar. Keep them out of direct sunlight and they will last you up to two weeks.

    Storing Basil Leaves

    FAQ’s

    How do you pick basil so it keeps growing?

    The secret to success is to pick basil when it’s at its best, and then leave it alone. But you don’t have to wait until you see a whole bunch of leaves to pick your basil. You can harvest a few leaves off the stems every few days to keep the plant healthy. And if you have a big pot, you can harvest as many leaves as you want from the center of the plant.

    How do you keep basil from getting too big?

    There are several ways to keep basil plants from getting too big. You can pinch off the side shoots as they appear. Or you can cut off the top of the plant when it reaches 6 inches tall. Or you can wait until the plant gets bigger and then use pruning shears to remove the center stems.

    Do you pick fresh basil from the top or bottom?

    The best and freshest basil is picked from the top of the plant. In other words, it is picked at the stem end.

    How do you pick basil without killing it?

    The most common way to select a bunch of basil for your cooking is to look for the greenest leaves. If they are not quite as dark green as the leaves of a leek, or if the leaves have started to yellow, they are probably ready to be picked. The other method is to smell the leaves. If the scent is sweet, like that of oregano, they are ready to use.

    When can I pick basil leaves?

    The plant itself doesn’t have an ‘exact’ time when it will be ready to harvest. In general, as long as the leaves are still green (unripe), you can harvest them.
    You can start harvesting basil as soon as the weather is warm enough to grow it outside. As long as it’s not too hot or cold, you should be able to get some good leaves from your plants.

    How do I know if my basil plant needs to be watered?

    Basil doesn’t like hot and dry weather.
    When the air is hot and dry, your basil may wilt and look sickly. You can help your plant by giving it a drink of water. If you see that your plant looks pale or droopy, give it another drink of water.

    How do I keep basil from getting moldy?

    Basil plants can get moldy in the summer months when the weather is very hot and humid. You can prevent this problem by keeping your basil in a place where the temperature stays cool, like a basement or a garage. You should also make sure your basil has plenty of moisture by watering it regularly.

    How To Pick Basil: Conclusion

    As we can see there are great benefits to picking your basil the appropriate way. Follow our guidelines on how to pick basil and enjoy a continuous harvest of the tasteful basil herb.

  • Are COB LEDs Better

    Are COB LEDs Better

    Are you wondering if COB (Chip On Board) LEDs are better for growing plants than other types of LED? You’ve probably heard of different talks on how COB LED grow lights are one of the best in the market. But is this really true?

    Well, it is true that COB LED lights offer some great advantages to growing plants. COB LED lights are definitely better than normal LED and some other types of LED because they offer more diodes and better lumen.

    Let’s take a look at some information on COB LED light, their features, and many more. So keep reading to learn more info.

    What Is A COB LED?

    The manner in which LED diodes are packed together is generally known as a chip on board (COB). They are the new LED technology and are packed together to form a single and powerful light source.

    A lot of tiny LEDs are arranged side by side of each other on a substrate to form one single module. Thus, they are packed together to give a single and highly powerful light source.

    Generally, there are two types of LED lights and they are chip on board, COB, and the surface mount diode, SMD. Just like COB LED lights are great for growing, SMD LED lights are also fine. Both devices have their benefits. But let’s find out if COB LEDs are better than other types of LED.

    What Is SMD Light?

    Before we look into if COB LEDs are better, let’s take a look at the surface mount device. Surface mount device SMD is the most common type of LED light sold in the market. The LED chips are merged to form a print circuit board (PCB) which is established on a flat object that is rectangular in shape.

    SMD has the ability to accommodate 3 diodes on the same chip and it can work with up to 6 contacts. It can also work with different colors and can create any color by adjusting the output level from each diode on the chip.

    Are COB LEDs Better? Advantages Of LED COB

    Here are some benefits you stand to gain growing with COB LED lights:

    • Highly Efficient: Using COB LED lights to grow for your indoor growing plants are better because they offer more input power. Thus, you get better efficient input with lesser power consumption.
    • Excellent Light Spectrum For Plants: They are available in different colors. Thus, they will offer your plants the right spectrum for your plants‘ growing needs.
    • Deep Plant Canopy Penetration: COB penetration goes very deep and will even penetrate far beneath your plants’ canopy. This is thanks to their large LED chip that is more powerful compared to a single diode.

    Phlizon CREE Cob Series 1000W LED Plant Grow Light Full Spectrum Indoor Plants

    • Better Light Density: Their tightly packed small diodes allow them to offer much better and higher light density.
    • Higher Light Speed: Unlike other smaller light fixtures that need to spreads out from a central point, COB will cover the plants more evenly. This is because COB lights are arranged apart on a large fixture thereby encouraging better light speed that will cover your plants evenly.
    • Minimal Heat: COB lights are known to emit lower heat making them safe to be placed close to plants.

    Disadvantages Of COB LED Light

    The disadvantages of using COB LED light are not so much. So let’s look at their disadvantages:

    One major disadvantage of using COB LED lights is that if one of the lights fails or spoils, you would have lost that particular or entire fixture. Now, if you were making use of the only COB LED lights for your entire to grow space, one failed COB light means a large portion of light has been lost. This is because it will affect a large part of your light.

    Are COB LEDs Better: COD Vs. SMD LED Light

    Both COB and SMD LED lights are great. However, let’s look at how both advantages over the other:

    • More Diode: Both COB and SMD LED lights have multiple diodes. However, COB chips have up to 9 or more diodes while SMD has 3 diodes on a single chip. Thus COB lights will offer more light intensity, thereby making them more effective.
    • Efficiency: The efficiency of these two LEDs works at various rates and that’s because they are built with different features. Talking about SMD, the efficiency is not so great but it will still get the job done. COB on the other hand will offer your garden optimal productivity. Thus, making them an excellent option for plant growing requirements.
    Efficiency
    • Color Temperature: The color temperature in SMD is more flexible as there is a possibility of changing colors. It offers varieties of colors because of the primary color used in SMD. COB on the other hand does not offer color change flexibility. They are built to adhere to a single color temperature.
    • Affordability: Generally, LED lights are cost-effective and are more durable. LED lights also consume minimal energy, thus saving you on the energy bill. Thus, both SMD and COB are affordable. However, if we want to look at it from the manufacturing cost, SMD will be more costly than COB. The material cost for SMD is around 15%, while COB material cost about 10% of the manufacturing cost.
    • Brightness: The lumen generated by the chips will greatly depend on the brightness. SMD LED makes use of about 50 to 100 lumen per watt. COB works with a higher lumen and the least value is 80 lumen per watt. Thus COB LED lights give more brightness.

    FAQ’s

    What are the problems with COB LED’s?

    Some people feel that COB LED lights are one of the worst types of light for growing plants.

    The problem with COB LED lights is that they only emit light in one direction. This means that all of the light that is emitted is right at your plants.

    In fact, it is possible that every single ray of light that comes out of your COB LED light will be hitting your plant. This means that all of the light energy that comes out of the COB LED light is wasted. One way to look at this is that it is like trying to grow plants in an aquarium. It is impossible to get enough light into the aquarium because all of the light that is coming in is hitting the glass. If you were to move the plants out of the aquarium then you could see the full effect of the light. You would see that the plants were getting more light than they ever did in the aquarium. There are many other disadvantages to COB LED lights. They do not emit enough light to grow plants. They are expensive and they use a lot of energy. COB LED lights are also very loud.

    How do you choose between COB LED lighting and traditional incandescent or halogen lights?

    Well, that’s where it gets tricky. So if you’re looking for an LED light to replace your old light, here are some things to consider: Does it need to be bright? You don’t want a super bright light, because the cost is just going to be astronomical. If you can get away with a 50W or 75W light, that will usually be the best bet.

    How long do COB LEDs last?

    The lifespan of a COB LED is typically measured in years, not months. For example, the Cree XP-E2 is rated for 5,000 hours. It is also designed to have a very high lumen output (2700 lumens) with an average CRI of over 90. However, the lifespan is more than likely going to be shorter than what is stated on the product label.

    Are COB LEDs Better: Final Thoughts

    On our final thoughts on if COB LEDs are better; we would say both COB and SMD LED lights are great for growing. This is because LED lights are generally superior compared to other types of light.

    However, we have seen that COB stands out in terms of its brightness and other great features they offer.

  • Aerating Water For Plants

    Aerating Water For Plants

    Do you know if aerating water for your plants is necessary? Well, definitely yes! Have you ever wondered how plants can sit a long time in a hydroponic system without drowning? The trick is the air supplied. If you don’t provide your hydroponic plants with adequate oxygen, they will drown or suffocate.

    The root of plants must be supplied with air for optimal growth so aerating water for plants is important. So, plants require oxygen to breathe or respire.

    In this post, we will be talking about how to aerate your plants, the importance of aerating your plants, and more. So, read on to learn about this.

    How To Aerate Water For Plants

    When you aerate your water for hydroponic plants, you’re introducing dissolved oxygen (DO) to the system. The dissolved oxygen is usually ready to be assimilated by the plant roots. So, we can aerate our hydroponic system in the following ways:

    1.    Airstone With Air Pump

    One of the easiest ways of aerating water for plants is by using air stone connected to an air pump. They are very affordable and easily accessible. Air stones also come in different sizes and shapes, thus you will always find one that is suitable for your hydroponic system.

    Airstone With Air Pump

    So, air stone provides oxygenation by pushing the air pump through the stones. Because the air stone is quite porous, the air is split into a large bunch of bubbles. However, this large bubble may not be so efficient. This is because large bubbles tend to rise rapidly and they may end up not reaching plant roots.

    The good news is that the air stones we find in the market now generate smaller bubbles. Thus, this makes their job done more efficiently.

    2.    Automatic Siphon System

    The automatic siphon mechanism provides air to the plants by exposing the plant root system. This process is common in the ebb and flow system whereby the grow bed is drained and the plant root system is exposed to air.

    The automatic siphon system comes in various forms. They include loop, bell, and U shape and all of these mechanisms work on the same principle.

    The mechanism of action works this way: when the water level in the grow bed moves up and rises, it gets to a point it begins to go down. The water levels go down a tube called the standpipe. As the standpipe fills up, there is a suction created with a vacuum that pulls the water away from the grow bed.

    So the plant root is exposed to air for a while and the water goes up again and the process repeats on and on.

    Auto-Siphon Mini with 6 Feet of Tubing and Clamp

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    3.    Air Diffuser

    Using an air diffuser is another method of supplying aerated water to your plant root. Air diffusers comprise bendable tubes with holes in them that help emit air into water. Even though air stones are capable of distributing air evenly, air diffusers will supply smaller bubbles. Thus, most of these smaller bubbles usually get to the plant roots.

    This is the biggest advantage of air diffusers over air stones (bubbles size). However, various brands are now manufacturing sir stones with smaller bubbles because of the growing interest in hydroponics.

    4.    Oxygen Gap

    Some hydroponics system like Kratky method and NFT offers oxygen through an air gap. The nutrient solution should be placed in the grow bed. Allow the plant root to touch the nutrient solution and leave a gap for the rest of the plant body. There will always be enough air between the air gap created and the nutrient solution that will ensure the plant receives oxygen.

    5.    Root Hanging

    The last method we will be looking at for aerating water for plants is root hanging. Vertical and Aeroponic system often makes use of root hanging. Rather than allowing the root to sit in a nutrient solution, the nutrient solution can simply be splashed or pumped across the system and comes back to the reservoir. Vertical hydroponics makes use of pumping nutrients. On the other hand, the Aeroponic system makes use of spraying their nutrient solution.

    root hanging

    Importance Of Aerating Water For Plants

    Aerating your water for plants is very crucial when it comes to hydroponic gardening. So, let’s look at the importance of aerating the water in your plants for their optimal growth:

    • Nutrient Uptake: aerating your water for plants is important so that nutrients can be adequately absorbed by the plants’ roots. Thus, when your plants can absorb adequate nutrients, they will grow healthier and result in abundant yield.

    • Bacteria Build-up Is Reduced: with optimal dissolved oxygen, the roots are able to respire and there will be a drastic decrease in bacteria build-up. However, if the dissolved oxygen drops, it will cause anaerobic bacteria and fungi to build up. These bacteria build-up affects the plant root and restricts the roots from absorbing important nutrients. So, we definitely want to avoid such.

    • Respiration: just as animals and human beings respire, plants also respire. Oxygen is assimilated through the roots of the plants. This same oxygen is also absorbed through the plants’ stomata as well as their stem pores.

    Aerating Plants In The Soil

    Plants in the soil aren’t left out from dissolved oxygen (DO). They also assimilate important nutrients in the soil through oxygenation. Of course, the air present in the atmosphere provides these soil plants oxygen. Plants can also receive oxygen through air pockets in the soil.

    They can also obtain dissolved oxygen from nature through rainwater. Rainwater assimilates dissolved oxygen from the atmosphere before reaching the earth or soil.

    However, over-watering your plants can prevent the soil plant from accessing these air pockets thereby reducing dissolved oxygen. This will in turn cause your plant to drown or suffocate. So, ensure you don’t overwater your soil plants.

    FAQ’s

    What is aeration?

    Aeration is the process of adding oxygen to your aquarium or pond water. This is done by placing a sponge, air pump, or other air diffuser in the water and allowing the water to circulate. It is also possible to place an air stone directly into the water and allow it to bubble. Aeration is especially useful for aquariums or ponds that have very little movement in the water.

    The increased oxygen levels will encourage more fish, plants, and invertebrates to inhabit the tank or pond.

    What is a sponge?

    Sponges are made up of tiny pockets, called spicules, which are packed tightly together to form a strong and resilient structure. They are usually soft and absorbent, and can be found in both marine and freshwater environments. A marine sponge is often used as an underwater filter. Sponges are also used as filters on land, since they can absorb pollutants from the air as well as water.

    What is an air pump?

    Air pumps are small, portable devices that use compressed air to create bubbles that are dispersed through a diffuser. Air pumps are available in many different sizes and types. Most people use air pumps to aerate their aquariums, ponds, and water gardens.

    The air pump is one of the most essential tools for any aquarist. It is used to create bubbles, which helps oxygenate the water and remove ammonia and nitrates.

    What is an air stone?

    An air stone is a small device that creates bubbles. There are several different types of air stones available. Some of these air stones can be attached to a tank or pond for continuous bubbling. Others require manual operation, and are often used to aerate water when it is not being filtered or pumped.

    What is a bubble wort?

    A bubble wort is a piece of equipment that uses bubbles to aerate water. Bubble worts are typically used on a regular basis, so the bubbles will continue to disperse throughout the tank or pond. The bubbler must be used with the air pump to produce the bubbles.

    How important is considering the water for plant growth?

    Water is a very important part of your garden. It’s what keeps the plants alive and allows them to grow. If you water your plants too often, it will cause the soil to become dry and compacted. This will lead to slower plant growth and can even kill them! If you don’t aerate your soil every few months, it can actually cause your plants to be more susceptible to diseases.

    Aerating Water For Plants Final Thoughts

    There are lots of benefits to aerating water for your plants growing needs. Ensure you provide optimal air to your plants’ roots so they can flourish and give you abundant yields.