From the technical details of LED lights to what you need to look for when you want to find the perfect light system for the best harvest possible, we have the information you need to make an informed decision. If you are ready to learn more, take a minute or two to relax (by whatever means you want), then prepare yourself to soak up a little knowledge about LED grow lights and why you should choose these types of grow lights over HID light set-ups.

What to Look for in LED Lights

Here are a few of the main things you are going to want to look at closely when you are looking for LED grow lights.

• Shape - One of the first things you should consider is the shape of the LED light system. The good news is that there are quite a few different layouts and options available these days. And because LED grow lights are typically smaller than HID lighting systems, you are able to get more into a smaller space – without exhaust fans and other necessities that come with HID grow lights.
• Power - The next thing you want to look at is the amount of power that the lights are going to draw as well as the amount of light they are going to produce. If you are dealing with a legitimate company, they are going to give you specifics about the power usage and power output of their lights. You don’t need an engineering degree to be able to figure out how much you are going to need for your particular grow operation.
• Colors - With LED lights you can actually get different wavelengths that will help with different aspects of the grow cycle. While we can’t go too in depth here, suffice to say that you should pay close attention to what types of light your LED grow lights can produce and shine on your plants.
• Price - Finally, you should think about price. I didn’t lead with this because you don’t want to just go with the cheapest product you can find. Sometimes it is worth it to spend a little more money upfront and get a quality product that is going to stand the test of time.

The Technical Side of LED Grow Lights

In order for your plants to grow and grow well, you need to make sure the lights you use are putting out light at the right amount of intensity as well as from the correct spectrum of light. Over time you will begin to learn what particular numbers work best for your set-up, but there are some general guidelines that you should use. Typically, you will want light that is 400 to 700 nanometres (nm) intensity.

Additionally, you need to pay close attention to how much light and darkness your plants receive so that you can simulate a normal sun/dark cycle that they would receive if growing outdoors. You can actually control how the plant is going to grow (and flower) by controlling the cycle of light/dark that they receive. It is also important to change the amount of light so that you can induce flowering and get great buds.

If you have more than one plant, you are going to want to set-up separate areas – one for the vegetative process and one for flowering. The amount of light and dark the plants get in each area is going to vary quite a bit depending on which room they are in, but in general you’re going to find that the LED grow lights are going to use less power even for longer periods of light.

Speaking of power, you will find that a 400 watt LED grow light will be good for four to twelve plants. If you go with a 250 watt LED grow light, you will have enough for one to five plants. You should always ensure that you have enough lights for the amount of plants you are trying to grow. With these two numbers, you should be able to figure out how many lights you are going to need for the number of plants that you have growing.

Buying the Best LED Grow Lights Online

Here is a quick rundown of three of the best LED grow lights out there at the moment. If you want to save time and go with the best, I really recommend trying Magnum 357. For the money, they are tough to beat. Here’s some more information to help you make your decision.

• Magnum 357 LED Grow Lights -  After trying many different brands for many different types of uses, I really think the Magnum 357 LED set-up is the way to go. Whether you are a beginner or a more advanced “gardener,” you are going to love all this brand has to offer. While the lights are slightly ore expensive, you know you are getting lights from the industry leader in LED technology, along with the top level support they provide.  With many “cheaper” lights you simply don’t get the same results (if any results!) as you do with the 357 Magnum line.  Need proof?  Just check out any of the numerous grow journals posted on the web using the Magnum lights. Here’s one to get you started:
  
  
  
  (original journal can be found at http://www.thcfarmer.com/forums/f137/2nd-grow-magnum-357-og-kush-39289/index3.html)

Click here to buy the 357 Magnum LED Light (Use coupon “RIPHID” to take $100 off your order)

• Hydro Grow LED – While not on the top of my list by any means, I think it is a good idea to at least mention Hydro Grow LED lights. While they do not offer as much bang for the buck as the Magnum 357 line, I think they do have a lot to offer. You really want to make sure you pay attention to the prices, though, especially with the shipping and handling.
• Prosource Grow Lights -  Lastly, I wanted to give Prosource a quick mention. While they may not have the very best LED grow lights on the market and their prices could be better, they have been around a while and do occasionally have a good sale going sometimes.

There are other options out there, of course, but when it comes to getting the most for your money, I think you should stick with a proven winner like the Magnum 357 line of LED grow lights. Whether you are trying to grow a single plant or have rows and rows you want to grow and grow, Magnum 357 grow lights have a lot to offer.

I’m sure you have questions – please leave them in the comments below and I will answer them to the best of my ability!

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LED Grow Lights

This site was created several years ago as a basic guide to help find hydroponic systems and supplies while providing advice to individual who choose to grow plants inside.  Initially, the majority of inquiries were focused on standard concepts on growing plants such as tomatoes, strawberries and herbs. However, as the website gained popularity, and increasing number of individuals started to focus their questions on marijuana.

Beginners Guide To Growing Weed Indoors

The initial inquiries made on the site were relatively standard. Individuals wanted to discover what lighting to use, where to acquire seeds, and similar questions. The website provided just enough essential information to assist individuals in getting started. However, as time went on, the questions focused on issues that were a little more complicated and other sources had to be sought in order for the website to continue to provide accurate and up-to-date information for its visitors. In this way, the newest gardening techniques could be posted on the site.  Most people can learn the necessary techniques for growing ordinary weed; however, it takes dedication and knowledge of a more extensive kind to sustain high quality bud.

Most of the pertinent information one needs to learn to efficiently grow weed high-quality bud can be found on the internet free of charge. The only thing an individual needs to do to is read forums about cannabis, beginning with threads that contain simple and straightforward information that pertains to seed growing, flowering, and vegetative growth. It is also essential to research information about the proper lighting, cloning, ventilation, temperature and strains.

I conducted such research over a long period of time but discovered that I was wasting far too many hours sifting through a lot of gibberish simply to finally get down to the information for which I was really looking. Throughout this past year, I have devoted a significant amount of time to the reading other websites as well as forums in an attempt to acquire the essential information I needed to continue to help the readers of my website. When I thought it over, it occurred to me that time is money. Like most people who own websites, there is only so much I can do for free before I start to feel like I am running a charity. I discovered that I was squandering a lot of time searching for free information; however, it ultimately ended up costing, rather than saving me money.

While searching through local bookstores and the Amazon website, I discovered some acceptable selections.  However, the most frequent issue was that the information was not entirely accessible. Most of the books I evaluated had helpful content; however, the information was poorly organized. I found it necessary to continually go from chapter to chapter for the purpose of finding the precise information that I needed. This became quite frustrating after a few hours.

Elite Marijuana Growth

This made a considerable difference in my quest for information. At first it was a daunting task to read a huge guide with a high number of pages; however, the content was accessible and easy to understand. In addition, it was information that was easy to implement. All a person must do to see how valuable it is, is to evaluate the site for himself or herself, as there is no need for a sales presentation to persuade individuals to purchase. Most people wonder how they ever got by without it once they see all that the site has to offer.

The Book’s Contents

• Marijuana History and Facts
• Is Soil or Hydroponics Better
• How to Select From Runderalis, Hybrid, Indica or Sativa   Strains
• Selecting the Best Indoor Seed
• The Best Types for Medical Purposes Versus the Best Party Strains
• How to Select the Right Seed Bank
• How to Determine the Sex of the Plant• Hermaphrodites Uses
• Selecting an Indoor Lighting System
• Various Germinating Techniques
• Cloning
• Soil Growth Techniques
• Hydroponic Weed Growing
• Setting up a Suitable Indoor Growing Area
• Facts About Outdoor Growing
• Advanced Techniques for Pruning Cropping and Training
• Understanding Harvest Time
• Curing and Drying Techniques

I would suggest doing your own research project and come back to read the positive reviews of Growing Elite Marijuana. In the future if you find yourself the victim of a sub-standard bag of weed, ponder the fact that you could have spent far less money on it, and in addition to that, you could have just as easily spent the time successfully growing the most dense, stickiest, best bud you will ever use.

If you are not entirely happy and pleased, you will have all funds returned to you without any questions.
Some bonus books are also available when you make an order:

• Ganja Etiquette
• Security Guide for Marijuana Growers
• Building Your Own Smoking Device At Home
• Cannabis Care Manual
• Ultimate Strain Guide
• Quick Start Guide•Stoner’s Cookbook

Create Your Own Connections and say goodbye to your local one!

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LED Grow Lights

Lumens Versus Lux

The terms lumens and lux both describe a way to measure light emission units among HID and LED lights. Such values provide customers with a valid frame of reference for evaluation of various bulbs’ relative brilliance. In numerous locations, the lumen output capability of a specific lamp must, by law, be distinctly visible on the exterior label. It is understood that the greater a light’s lumen rating, the more it will help a plant to grow faster and bigger.

One major problem, however, is lumens being used as a basic measuring tool of grow light performance.

Essentially, the the relative level of brilliance of a specific light emission to the human eye is measured in lumens. Lux is also a somewhat comparable word, as it indicates the perceptions of relative light intensity. However, Lux values are also an aspect in the gross coverage area that numerous lumen output values offer. Right at present, however, do not let technical matters and phrases confuse you. Merely be aware of the fact that both lux and lumen express the a person’s visual perceptions of light intensity.

Since bright lights are considered a beneficial thing, one may wonder what is the point of contention, then. The natural light of the sun performs efficiently as a plant growth enhancer and it is certainly a very bright light. This may lead one to ask if the sun should be considered our ideal light standard.

Searching For Optimized Bud Growth?

If you are on the aforementioned search, read the internet’s most informative and popular weed growth bible. As highlighted by 420, High Times Magazine and Cannabis Culture Periodical.

Are Lumen and Lux Important Considerations for Plant Growth?

Lumens and Lux do not have any bearing on the long-term growth of your plants. Light frequencies that are imperceptible to a person’s natural eyesight are the light in which most plants thrive best. This means that relative brilliance is not an issue. In reality, most plants only use approximately 20 percent of sunlight or HID light for the process of photosynthetic process. The only part of the light spectrum that is evaluated for intensity is the part that can be seen with the naked eye.

The most important considerations are the wavelengths emitted by various led grow lights. when LED grow light manufacturing companies rate the bulbs they sell by lumens, it is merely an immaterial and deceptive marketing ploy. Numerous grow light manufacturers are discovering that clients are beginning to realize this fact. Subsequently, such companies are not listing lumens in their product descriptions. Rather, they are displaying graphic pictorials of the brilliance of the bulbs they sell. In a nutshell, bright lights do not guarantee satisfactory growth of any plant.

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Finding The Most Appropriate LED Grow Lights

It is a serious matter when one chooses to invest in an LED grow light system and there are many considerations to which thought must be given before a final decision is made. One should consider all the variables and try to choose the lighting system that guarantees maximum yield. One must also take an appropriate amount of time to sufficiently learn about each company’s product and compare the claims made by various manufacturers. The key to making this project successful is being sure that the lights he or she buys come with a warranty and guarantee. This additional peace of mind guarantees that if inappropriate results are realized, the customer is covered.

Additionally, it is important that the lights one selects have the appropriate power level and spectra for his or her growing needs. The information contained herein is merely a single chapter regarding the use of LED grow lights for cannabis. Readers should return frequently for updates and use the contact page for questions and concerns.

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LED Grow Lights

The biggest advantage that LED grow lights have over traditional lights is their ability to produce more light that is usable by the plants for growth per watt of energy when compared to MH and HPS lights. In addition, LED lights have lifespans that far surpass those of traditional grow lights. A good example is that of a 90W LED grow light that actually has the same light output as that of a 400 watt HID light. An added benefit is that the LED light produces almost no heat as compared to the HID bulb and will use 30 to 40 % less electricity. No special cooling fans are needed and the LED bulbs are self contained and require no ballasts or regular maintenance.

There are many types of LED grow lights available on the market today. The hydroponic grower must be careful in selecting the correct LED grow light for their operation. UFO grow lights have proven to be popular with many growers in numerous setups. Growers legally growing medicinal cannabis have found that the LED grow lights are ideal. LED lights give growers the ability to select specific light levels and color temperatures to produce the best buds.

UFO Grow Light Benefits

- uses only 90 watts of electricity

- no production of excess heat to burn or dry out plant leaves

- the light produce is directed at the plants and not scattered around the room where plants can not use it

- grower can match light intensity and color temperature to the plants being grown

- good light results in better growth, blossoming, and yields

- growers can customize the light to species being cultivated

Determining the requirements of the plants to be grown is the first step in selecting the best grow light. Each plant species has it’s own needs and those must be considered. Lighting factors control everything from growth rates to flowering frequency to flowering quantity. The right light is key to any growers bottom line.

There are many standard UFO lights that have blue and red light combinations but now there are also grow lights that provide five wavelengths of light. These newer generation of grow lights provide red, orange, and blue light wavelengths. Always make sure and determine the needs of the plants that you will be growing. We all know that different species have differing needs but even different varieties of plants within the same species can have different light requirements. Some installations may dictate the use of several lights to cover all the required wavelengths of light for the specific species of plant being grown while other areas may need just one light.

Designing a grow light installation can be a difficult task and should be left up to a professional. I can provide free consultation for those needing help with the design of a grow light system that fits your needs.

Not all lights are created equal

There have been some situations where people have used LED grow lights and had less than spectacular results. After studying these cases, it was determined that the LED’s in use were not adequately powered and were bought from a discount manufacturer.

LED lights will cost the grower a little more money on the initial purchase but the long term savings from reduced operational costs and the added yield and growth from the plants will make up for this extra cost almost immediately after the purchase. In addition, the expensive heating removal systems required with the old lights is no longer needed so the grower can save even more money.

Just remember that the cheap LED grow lights are cheap for a reason. They are usually underpowered resulting in inefficient light production and of a lesser quality. The cheaper LED units are often comprised of banks of smaller 0.6 watt LED diodes. These smaller diodes are less effective and require a very short distance between the plant and the LED. In some cases six inches. This is obviously not something that would be practical in a greenhouse. Because of this, more units will be needed to light the same area as a high quality LED unit.

Take for example an area of 25 square feet that needs to be lighted. It would take almost a dozen of the inexpensive LED grow lights to cover this area while one of the quality LED lights could cover the same area.

The difference between the quality LED’s and the cheaper ones are in the LED diode itself. The quality units use diodes that are much larger and have an output of around 1 watt. A bank of 1 watt LED grow lights would be all that is required to light the same 25 square foot area.

Natural sunlight is always an excellent source of lights but some growers, especially those that are involved in hydroponics, feel that the LED grow lights are better suited to their needs. LED lights, hands down, save more money, allow more customization, and are better for growth than the HID lights. Growers that are interested in taking their growing operations to the next level should research an LED grow light review to determine the appropriateness of LED’s for their operation.

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LED Grow Lights

LEDs have consistently proven themselves to be tools extremely efficient for indoor farming and greenhouses. For this among other reasons, many hobbyists have brought them in to replace other more dated lighting technologies. People grow a wide variety of diversified plants utilizing LEDs from kitchen basics such as spices, herbs and tomatoes to other more exotic entries. One of the things that cannot be accurately determined is what proportion of people visiting this site are doing so for purposes which are benign and what proportion are seeking data to be used for pursuits considered to be more controversial.

Disclaimer:

It is vitally important to clearly understand that the owner of this site absolutely does not wish to endorse or encourage in any manner whatsoever conduct which is illegal. His goal is always to tap his knowledge and share information he has regarding general gardening matters. There are a number of places where the law allows for medicinal reasons the use of marijuana. It is in these situations only that support is issued for growing cannabis. For this reason, every reader of this site is strongly urged to carefully review the local laws in their immediate vicinity before putting any of the following garden techniques into use.

Now that all of this has been carefully presented it means the topic at hand can now be discussed. Everyone understands it is for absolutely legitimate reasons these plants will be grown. Also, just for the record, in addition to this being the position of this website, it is also the position held by the manufacturers of the artificial grow lights as well.

Coverage Area – What Is The Truth?

As with almost all products, there are in fact those companies looking to draw in an unsuspecting public by over-hyping their products. Unfortunately, there are some grow light makers now doing this as well issuing false claims in regard to coverage area that simply don’t stand up in the real world. Of course this will aid them in initially showing higher profits but will eventually lead to numerous dissatisfied customers. Companies should be aware that the disgruntled consumer is much quicker to share their disappointment with others than the satisfied one will be. This only leads to a continuing array of negative and ripping reviews that all might have been avoided. In most situations it is the LED panels that are low power who receive most of the negative wrath. Companies involved seek to play it cautiously by casting a net that is very wide rather than concentrating their energies and efforts on that niche market always so loyal.

Those honest people dealing with legal farming of cannabis and looking to increase their output will want to take a look at www.howtogrowweed420.com who are the lading authority on the issue.

Coverage Area And The Issues Determining It

There are a wide number determining considerations in regard to the grow lights and their effective width. Among these will be what plants are being grown and their particular needs, the particular angle the light is set at to shine on the plants, the particular lighting fixture and it’s specific design, the particular company who manufactured the panel,each diode’s power rating and so many others.

The biggest impact on coverage will be determined by the light and exactly how it is meant to be used. An illustration of this can be determined by taking a particular panel and examining very carefully the advertised effective area. Probably this will be rated for the vegetative period, or for that time the plants are really just seeking to grow. Right at this time only a small amount of light is required but when they reach the flowering stage the intensity needed will be much higher. This can be and often is where problems set in because every LED light will not perform as required during the flowering stage. For this and other reasons the consumer must be skeptical and pause when wild and boastful claims of coverages of 16 cubic feet with the use of an LED panel of 90 watts and great power savings are exclaimed.

They should be aware that this will in fact work only with things like fruits, veggies and lettuce in the vegetative stage only. Cannabis however which is so much more demanding absolutely must receive much more light.

Weak Light And Large Area Don’t Go Together

Those accustomed to working with HID lamps and similar high intensity sources will usually be disappointed after they switch to LED. There is virtually always a large drop in their yields. Also, the crops might appear healthy and big at first but then revealed to be buds very lightweight due to the lack of sufficient exposure to light.

People are constantly being urged by the LED growers guide to monitor their buds carefully looking for any signs of malnutrition when they are in the flowering stage. If spotted, they can make any necessary adjustments to help with the exposure to light.

Many say that the best rule of thumb in attaining the most positive results is to cut whatever the manufacturer’ claims are in half. If they claim a 4X4 foot area is well covered, assume it will work best in a 2X2 foot area. The result will be much better yields.

LED Growers Guide

This guide for LED grow lights contains any and all information one will ever require to get the best results possible.

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LED Grow Lights

Read on for information about the latest developments and new technology available on the market.

Advancements in LED Grow Lights

Consumers are often reluctant to try new technology. They become comfortable with one product and prefer to stick with what they know as long as possible. LEDs are becoming more popular with average consumers as they realize the various advantages to using them. Many people are now using them in place of HID fixtures when gardening indoors. LED lights allow the grower to increase yield in a smaller area. These fixtures operate at precise wavelengths that allow the plants to absorb more light than they do in the presence of HID lights. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light to energy. The plant uses this energy to grow leaves and produce fruit.

This article should help anyone who is interested in growing plants that will thrive in an indoor growing environment. I will not make any comparisons between specific brands. May focus will be on LED grow light features and the advantages associated with used LED lights compared to HID lights. I will also write a bit about the recent technological developments in the industry.

LED Lights – A Shift in Theory

For the past four decades, indoor gardeners have had few options when purchasing grow lights. The market has not provided many choices in grow lights. The goal is to provide indoor plants with light that mimics natural sunlight and gives them everything they need to thrive. Sunlight plays a crucial role in photosynthesis. Without sunlight, plants cannot grow properly because they do not have enough energy to produce vegetation and flowers.

Sunlight is white light. Wavelengths across the entire visible light spectrum combined with ultraviolet and infrared make up sunlight. Designers attempted to make the first grow lights as close to natural sunlight as possible but the products were not effective when put into practical use. Plants have different needs when it comes to lighting. Orchids have different light needs than cannabis or other types of plants. A limited light range is adequate for many plants. The light stimulates the chemicals involved in photosynthesis and the plants grow. LED bulbs provide anywhere from 90% to 99% of the light needed for photosynthesis. HID lights only produce 15% of the needed light. Clearly, this is a big difference in efficiency.

The grower will need to learn how to adjust watering schedules and light cycles for successful growth of most plants in an indoor environment. Nutrient requirements will change as well. These changes do not have to be extreme. Sometimes all it takes is to alter the environment and adjust light cycles by a few hours one way or the other.

Many seed packets have instructions printed on them listing the needs for growing plants outside or inside. Flowering, vegetative and growing cycle periods may need changes depending on the specific plant. Cannabis is an example of a plant that has different needs depending on the strain. Most seed suppliers assume the consumer is using HID bulbs. HID and LED lighting do not share the same characteristics. When compared to HID bulbs, LED fixtures produce eight times more light. This is one reason for the need to use different growing techniques. Making the switch may take some getting used to but using LED lights is no more difficult than growing with HID lighting. Working with LED lights is just different and requires a few adjustments. As a bonus, LEDs are more effective. I recommend using LED lights to any indoor gardener who is willing to take the time to learn how to use them properly.

I have prepared the following guide for cannabis growers. I am still working on parts of this document but there is some valuable information for anyone who wants to grow cannabis indoors with LED grow lights.

Is a Wider Spectrum of Light Really Needed?

The earliest versions of these lights were simple in design and produced a single band of red light and a single band of blue light. Plants use red light to produce flowers and blue light to grow vegetation. The first LED fixtures manufactured provided both bands of light but studies revealed that more was needed for the best growth. Additional light is particularly important when photosynthesis is at its peak.

The Key to Growing Great Buds

Growers can find information about growing weed in publications like 420 Magazine and High Times. Computer users should review the highest rated growing guide online for valuable tips and hints.

A shift in the market over the last few years has seen consumers purchasing 11 band, 6 band and tri-band fixtures instead of the traditional blue and red LED lights. Some companies carry full spectrum and white light setups. I have conducted research on this subject and it seems clear from the literature I have read that plants will thrive with a single orange light band in combination with two blue and two red light bands.

In my opinion, 11 band and 6 band LEDs are more like HID fixtures because there is too much white light produced and much of it goes to waste. The growing process becomes less efficient because it does not factor in peak targeting. Instead of a step forward in technology, this represents a step back. Growers should also keep in mind that 85% of the light produced by most HID fixtures is waste because the plant cannot even use it. Growers can expect to get this type of light with white LEDs or full spectrum bulbs. I believe in using less white light in the typical LED array for the best growing results.

Why do so many lighting companies produce these lights if they are so ineffective?

Consumers today tend to believe that more must be better. Advertising companies fill the airwaves with messages that sell items that are bigger, better, new and improved. Many lighting companies do not do enough research about what type of light is most effective. The manufacturer is interested in keeping the consumer satisfied. Consumers may be willing to buy more than they need despite the fact there is something available that will better suit their needs. You should always ask the company to provide proof of any claims made about performance. Make sure you understand the supplier’s return policy.

Are LED grow lights actually effective?

Many growers get success with LED lights when used for micro grows with shorter vegetative growth cycles. When the grower extends the flowering stage, the plant will be low to the ground with a few branches and one cola. Some growers report a yield of approximately four grams for every watt, which is good output for indoor plants. Commercial planting is something completely different. These lights will not produce the type of big trees grown for the medical marijuana market.

Many people agree with the opinion that LED lights are not adequate for commercial production. I think they will work for growing some kinds of plants commercially. A farmer in New Hampshire is growing hydroponic tomatoes using LEDs and having great success with his setup. The farmer claims his electricity usage is half what it was before he started using LED lights. This averages out to about a $500 savings every month on his power bill. The article and the farmer’s results make good arguments for replacing traditional light fixtures with LEDs.

The Relationship Between Wattage and Grow Areas and What You Should Know

I believe manufacturers will start to back off some of their claims as time goes on. One such claim is the notion a 400 watt HPS is comparable to a 90 watt bulb. Some say a 350 watt fixture is equivalent to a 1000 watts HID. I think manufacturers should recalculate space area and reconsider their claims. They should provide growers more information about what the 90 watt LED is best used for. The manufacturer should always specify plant height, recommended vegetative stages, quantity, cannabis strain and plant type. This will help consumers make informed decisions when comparing different light manufacturers and making a purchase.

More specifically, I recommend a 90 watt light for an area of 2 x 2 or smaller. This is the most effective setup for cannabis vegetative and flowering stages. This is comparable to using a 250 watt HID fixture and requires 60% less power overall. If the plant is lettuce, a larger grow space is recommended. Light coverage for lettuce should be 4 x 4. Lettuce does not need as much light as cannabis to grow and there is no flowering cycle involved in the growth process. The only requirement will be for vegetative growth. Manufacturers should clearly define the light specifications so growers can consider these requirement differences and choose their lighting array accordingly. Consumers should learn as much as they can about the different lighting systems available before making any purchase. Doing good research is the best way to make sure you are getting what you want at the best price available.

Some Final Thoughts

Anyone who wants to understand LED grow light systems better should locate an expert in the field and start asking questions. Any reputable LED supplier will be able to answer your questions and offer advice based on your specific needs. You are welcome to comment on this article or contact me directly for help. Do not do business with any supplier who does not take the time to answer your questions or offers vague responses. Some people are only selling lights to make fast cash. They are not particularly interested in offering full disclosure when it comes to giving out information about their products. There are enough reputable dealers doing business there is no need to waste time with a retailer who is reluctant to share any details. Reputable suppliers will have no problem answering every question and providing details about their products.

I believe there will be new companies getting into the LED light market during 2011. I also think some of the front runners in the industry will join forces before the year ends. If this happens, there will be fewer companies offering these products for sale. Even though consumers will have fewer options when shopping for lights, they should be able to purchase a better quality product. These mergers often make the company more efficient and this is a good thing for the consumer. I believe this means better products will end up on the market. With so many changes to keep up with, consumers should always do plenty of research before making any final decisions and doing business with any company.

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LED Grow Lights

A commonly used marketing method embraced by many companies and manufacturers in an attempt to acquire the attentions of potential customers is to discuss the wavelength and spectrum of the LED grow lights they market. Below is an easy to understand explanation of what is important and what is not regarding the use of LED grow lights:

Facts About Light Spectrum

To gain a thorough knowledge of light, a person must fully understand word “spectrum.” This word essentially means the visible light wave length range in its entirety. Aside from visible light, the full electromagnetic spectrum includes energy in the form of radiation from sources such as microwaves, radios, infrared rays, ultraviolet rays, X-rays and gamma rays. Many people are unaware of the fact that the plural form of the word spectrum is “spectra” not the more often heard “spectrums.”

However, moving along, grow lights are essentially concerned with the spectrum that is visible, although sometimes they also utilize both the infrared and ultra violet spectra.

Understanding Wavelength

Regarding an LED or other type of grow light, the word “wavelength” refers to the distance between the peaks and troughs in a wave. Light wavelength acts in a similar way to water waves, where the peaks and waves can be a good length apart or very close together depending on a variety of factors. This is what makes a person see one color as opposed to another. Red shade are produced from long wavelengths, while blue colors come from short wavelengths. Nanometers are used to measure each color within the spectrum ranging from 380nm to 780nm from blue/violet to red respectively.

Plants obtain all their energy needs for the process of photosynthesis from the visible light spectrum. The aforementioned LED lights were produced based on this occurrence in nature, which was researched by scientists and botanists.

How Plant Growth is Encouraged With LED Grow Lights

For substances such as high pressure sodium, HID lights attract a specific end of the red/yellow light spectrum. In general terms, plants respond to all light in a similar way to all light; however, most of the benefits received by the plants come from numerous blue and red wavelengths. This essentially means that they receive the smallest amount of benefits from greens and yellows, as most of this light is reflected back to the original place from which it came.

Initially, producers of LED lights believed that one band of blue light and a single band of red light were all that was needed, and if growth conditions were suitable, success could be obtained. Although this might have worked on botanical life such as grass under specific testing conditions, it failed completely or produced negative results in more complex plants such as those that grow on a vine like tomatoes. Nevertheless, companies did not cease to manufacture badly designed LED grow lights in the initial production period. For this reason numerous production companies are still attempting to distance themselves from this stigma.

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Essential Spectra and Wavelengths for LED Grow Lights

The manufacturers who embraced LED technologies early on, knew there was plenty of potential in some of the new discoveries, and fortunately for consumers they continued to encouraging further LED technology development. After a short amount of time, they found that the early models were partly successful and they had a good grasp of the red-blue light concept. However, there were still details to be considered. It was discovered that more wavelengths were needed to address the problems associated with the early LED models. When one views a PAR chart, he or she can easily see that there are distinct areas on the light spectrum where botanical life obtains practically all of the energy they needed for photosynthesis. In addition, further tests showed that two distinct peaks in both the blue and red spectra and one specific, smaller peak in the orange spectra were present, proving that three light spectra are required for a total of five wavelength–light bands.

The above scenario basically means that the LED grow light is ideal for the entire plant growing cycle; from flowering to vegetative growth. In simple terms, light from the blue end of the spectrum is necessary for plant growth, and results in strong healthy plants that produce thick foliage. Simialrly, red and orange lights are necessary for flowering and fruits, and the growth of large dense, buds on all the nodes which were created in part by blue light.

The Future of LED Grow Lights

Although certain production companies are still heavily marketing and advertising their full spectrum lights and numerous LED models, other manufacturers are opting instead to use today’s modern refined technology. Certain companies and individuals believe that the primary purpose of LED grow lights is their efficient function and production of precise wavelengths needed for the process of photosynthesis. The majority of people know that the full spectrum that HID lights produce are not efficient, even though certain manufacturers still push such models. In addition, adding excessive LED bands which only serve to give more light that is not really efficient anyway is considered by some people to be a step backward instead of forward.

There is no one who has exact knowledge of what the future holds for LED grow lights, but certain manufacturers do a better production job with such lights because they choose better and more efficient technology. Fortunately, it is known that the scientific research now being conducted will benefit the industry for many coming years.

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LED Grow Lights

About the Illuminator LED Light

The previous versions of the Illuminator grow light that were available only a year or two ago were merely tri-band. Even in a high tech industry, the Illuminator represented a real innovation. It emitted light in the orange portion of the spectrum, helping users achieve bigger blooms in stronger cycles and more flourishing vegetative growth than those possible with ordinary grow lights.

Advantages of the Tri – Spectrum five band LED

The current top of the line led grow lights are five band, with proprietary technology that emits light in five wavelengths in the red, blue and orange portions of the spectrum. Further information on this innovative technology is available on the manufacturer’s web site.

The nature of proprietary technology

Because the technology used to produce these LED grow lights is proprietary, customers are unable to purchase lights that boost yields, promote blooms and induce growth in the same way from other sources. The illuminating lights available from competitors are most often cheap copies not backed by proper research and development. This makes the Illuminator the industry standard grow light.

What does light have to do with plant growth?

A lot of people learn in school that leaves are green because they absorb all wavelengths of light except yellow and green. Those two wavelengths are reflected back, so that the color people see is just green.

This means that the lights most useful for plant growth is that with wavelengths of red, blue and orange. The portions of the spectrum containing green and yellow light do not offer as much help to developing plants since they are mostly reflected back.

Yellow and green light produced by any grow light are a waste. The Illuminator Grow Light represents a valuable innovation in that its design permits the light produced to be that of the most useful spectra. With this technological innovation, the Illuminator effectively puts out exactly the light wavelengths that growing plants love. This yields huge blooms and massively increased yields unseen with other LED lights used for indoor cultivation.

Details of the Five Banded Illuminator and the Tri-Spectrum Grow Light

Illuminator led grow lights emit a five band spectrum of blue, red and orange that furnish more than 95% light that plants absorb. Usually high intensity lighting only produces 15% light that is absorbed, so the Illuminator rates very well.

Plants need different wavelengths of light at different stages in their growth. The Illuminator Grow Light puts out the optimum wavelengths for growing plants while also supporting every cycle of the growth of a plant.

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The Illuminator versus metal halide and sodium lights

Public acceptance of LED grow lights is growing, contributing to the drop in ratings for standard grow lights using HID technology. Some people feel that standard HID lights no longer serve any useful purpose. Many users offer testimonials in support of this point.

Rodney from Delaware stated in reviewing this product that excellent LED lights should soon be available everywhere. He fully endorses the company’s product and says that each has produced only super results. He gives the company five stars and is particularly complimentary about their customer service.

Lloyd from Kentucky calls these led grow lights phenomenal and says that this is the best light available anywhere in the world for growing flowers. He recalls waiting years for a product like this, says using the Illuminator Lights leads to the most rapid flowering he has ever seen and rates the product A+++++.

B from Ohio says she will never again purchase an HID light. She is tired of juggling several light sources as she had to do with HIDs and vows never to buy any form of HID light again. She says that she might buy something else for about $150 like a game or a matching LED set. Normally she has to add additional lights to produce heat. She has not yet tried the 180 Watt or the flower booster, but she believes the led grow lights will function as advertised. B also noted the excellence of customer service.

Jeremy from New Hampshire used the UFO product and found it entirely satisfactory. He vows to recommend these products to his circle of associates. He also commented on the excellent support and wonderful customer service that the company made available.

Purchasing a Tri- Spectrum Illuminator or Five-Band Grow Light

The only way to get an Illuminator is directly from the source. There you can review the variety of available sizes ranging from 90 watt UFO LEDs to commercial grade 350 watt Illuminator led grow lights. Applying the available information to the specific circumstances of a particular facility, a user can select the most appropriate grow light for the purpose.

Still not sure what LED Grow Light to buy?

Click here to check out my new guide to buying LED Lights, along with my top 3 light recommendations

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LED Grow Lights

1W vs. 3W or higher – which is truly the best?

It would appear as though 3-watt bulbs should shine much brighter than a mere 1-watt light. While this is certainly true in one sense, that theory only scratches the surface of the full story. Three-watt lights are brighter by a ratio of 3:1 as compared to 1-watt bulbs. In summary, a 3-watt grow light does not have treble the power as its lowly 1-watt analogue. It does, however, burn much more efficiently.

Do You Desire Better Plant Growth?

A grow light is an excellent option for those who must cultivate medical marijuana (the sole scenario in which cannabis may currently be grown within the US). These lights are no substitutes for working hard to obtain the desired outcomes, however. Those without green thumbs will still encounter difficulty in trying to get their plants to attain full growth. One website does exist that offers accurate advice and valuable insight. Its URL is howtogrowweed402.com.

Grow Light Efficiency Levels

You may be wondering how a 3-watt light can possibly burn less brightly than one with a 1-watt rating. The answer lies within both lights’ internal chip configurations. LED light chips must generate high energy levels. Bulbs of neither 3-watt or 1-watt power levels can actually produce precisely 3 or 1 watts of light energy. What distinguishes them is the level of internal heat contained within the bulb itself. Three-watt bulbs have higher internal overhead. This is why they last much longer than lower-watt modules.

In layman comprehension levels, 90-watt lights could actually function on just 80 to 85 watts (if they utilized 1-watt LED bulb configurations). On the other hand, using 3-watt bulbs would result in emitted light of only 50 to 55 watts. In this case, the 1-watt light is really superior, because of its greater wattage. This physical phenomenon is a constant within all existing LED grow lights. Whether you buy a 1-watt or 6-watt light, higher values yield less bulb brilliance. With that fact firmly in mind, 1-watt grow lights are ideal for those desiring to raise medical marijuana.

Is Acquiring a 3-watt Diode Desirable?

To the unaided human eye, 3-watt LED grow light emissions will always seem to be brighter. Indeed, a single 3-watt light has much penetrative energy capacity than that of a 1-watt bulb. This means that although 1-watt lights have more efficiency, 3-watt bulbs feature higher plant penetration for emitted illumination. Naturally, this assumes that your lights are procured from a reputable supplier. If you buy grow light brands from a disreputable source, your product is likely to be substandard.

Is Penetration or Efficiency More Essential to Plant Growth?

In contemporary technological realms, 1-watt bulbs have indisputably higher efficiency by far. Likewise, someone who employs a 3-watt bulb is certain to see superior canopy penetration. This feature facilities very healthy plants. The net result boils down to a matter of trade-offs. You must decide whether to forego efficiency for the sake of more energy, or settle for the converse situation. Achieving optimal results in both arena is impossible as technological capabilities current stand.

Keeping this fact in mind, your decision of 1W versus 3w bulbs is reducible to the type of harvesting you intend to conduct. People tend to be very concerned about canopy penetration. In fact, that feature is relatively insignificant, however. If you cultivate plants inside a closet, a 1-watt diode will work just fine. It is irrelevant whether you use an SCROG or SOG technique, as neither format entails canopies. By contrast, if you want your plants to reach taller heights or have relatively sticky buds, 3-watt bulbs are the best choice by far.

Take a brief study tangent into the content displayed to the immediate right of this Article. The in-depth discussion it features offers a general sense of how 1-watt and 3-watt grow light bulbs function. I like to use a garden hose analogy. Using a 1-watt bulb is akin to holding a garden hose that is kinked in one or two spots. The waterflow simply is not the same as that which comes from an unobstructed conduit. Three-watt bulbs are like getting a garden hose that is completely patent, but is not nearly as long as that of a 1-watt bulb format. Because the light stream is much more potent, however, it yields a penetration level with a 4:1 ratio. In other words, a 1-watt bulb can penetrate a 4-inch canopy; whereas, 3-watt bulbs cut right through at least sixteen inches. From that perspective, it is quite obvious which of these lights is the superior choice.

In summary, your choice is made much easier as to which grow light to buy if you invest the time to research the various factors that impact relative quality levels. The main thing is to select a model that is right for your particular plants. Read everything you find. Do not believe manufacturers’ ads at first blush. Quite apparently, these firms have an obvious self-interest in promoting their own products. Thus, seek recent and accurate information only from objective sources.

This is the end of “LED Grow Lights Guide: 1w versus 3w and Higher.” The presentation featured herein is the first of a continuing series. Further updates will be forthcoming on a regular basis. Be sure to let all your friends know about this Series – especially if they are authorized to cultivate medical marijuana. The data set forth herein is not easy to find.

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