When is it ok to use my HPS 400??

**WaTzRelLyGoOd** · 05-05-2009, 11:52 AM

i was wondering if anyone could tell me what size my plants should be ready to use hps. And when they are how far should i have them away from them. i have a 400 hps hotilux bulb. Thanks for any help. here is a picture of em there about a week old.

**snyder007** · 05-05-2009, 12:03 PM

I started using my 150 HPS right from the start. I would suggest you do the same. Extra light never hurt anything.

**cph** · 05-05-2009, 12:07 PM

Originally Posted by snyder007

I started using my 150 HPS right from the start. I would suggest you do the same. Extra light never hurt anything.

Like he said.. Now would be good. You should be about 3 ft away, thats on average make shure you aren't close enough to burn them. Maybe a little farther at first since for the first few weeks they are setting up the root base and don't need quit as much light.

**DubRules** · 05-05-2009, 12:11 PM

you already have your answer.
1. use it now (maybe get a mh conversion bulb so you can use it in your hps socket and ballast..)
2. be sure to keep it far away (3-4') from your plants for now as they are small. let them grow to the light. ventilation is important!

**stumps** · 05-05-2009, 12:15 PM

your plants don't need much light for the first two weeks. I use frlor or cfl for the first 4 weeks then change over to the 400w mh for veg or stay with the big cfl's. I use the hps for flower only. IMO its a waste of poewr/money to use the hps for veg. The ct is much lower with the hps then the mh. you can get cfl's in high and low ct.