space is no problem if that's the only reason not to use CFL's mixed with a HPS. I'm just wondering if it could lead to a spectrum that is less good for flowering and if it could cause smaller buds becaue of that.

I am using a 400 watt hps with cfl's on the edge of the space. some of the leaves still do angle towards the cfl's. they aren't useless space takers. the hps is only emitting light from a single central bulb, then reflected out around the plants as best as you can. cfl's on the sides can offer the plants much more light where they need it most, on the edges where the hps has trouble reaching.

there's more to it then just saying more lumens = better. a lot of people grow in places where there is no light reflecting back from the walls, like in a shed. a lot of grows don't have a wall or door right in the front. cfl's can help a lot to make the conditions for the plants more perfect for them to thrive.

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well in that case the lights might come in handy but its cheaper to get mylar all the way around it and you will end up with the same results in stead of bying cfl light and putting them around the edges

Excellent point. You do realize, don't you, that you just stated the primary advantage LED technology is homing in on: spectral emission solely in bands of Photosynthetically Useful Radiation.

Great thread!

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Hey i m growing in a very little space for now 2x2.5x2 but it has exccelent air movment. i am using 2 200watt equivelant and 2 100 watt equivelant cfls. they just spouted a few days ago. is this enough light for now?

thanks

CFLS do suck... Didnt you know hps bulbs get hot lol no offense: o

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WHat is more important for growing more lumens, more watts? Seems to me the heat is the issue and LEDs will solve some of the heat issues. Even though they are expensive. Any case studies on LEDs?

Im working on eventually earning an advanced degree in physics, currently about to become a senior undergrad at a top physics school....anyway it is awesome to see in action, GREAT POST


thought I'd only see pi * r^2 in emails to professors

Hey Everyone, great post.

According to the Jorge book flowering plants should receive 10,000 foot candles. But all of the light meters I've seen, including the one's sold at hydro shops for HID lights, only measure up to 5,000 foot candles.

Obviously, there's an inconsistancy somewhere. Can anyone recommend a good quality digital light meter? I would even prefer paying a little more for a quality instrument, $200-250

Also, does this sound right, 10,000 foot candles for flowering plants? It seems that all light meters measure in foot candles, so does anyone know how man foot candles plants need?

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Jolly interesting.

So how many lumens is my 400watt groloux outputting?

Iam interested cos my posh LED has about 400, and that is ruddy bright. But my grolux is like looking at the sun!

toodle--oo

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