When to Put Pot Plants Under Light

Indoor gardening has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to growing their own vegetables, herbs, and flowers in the comfort of their own home. One key aspect of indoor gardening is ensuring that plants receive sufficient light to thrive. While natural sunlight is the best source of light for plants, it is not always sufficient, particularly during the winter months when there are fewer hours of daylight. In such cases, artificial light in the form of grow lights can be used to supplement natural light. But when exactly should you put your pot plants under light?

The Importance of Light for Plants

Before we answer that question, it's important to understand why light is crucial for the growth and development of plants. Light is one of the three essential elements that plants need to grow, along with water and nutrients. Through a process called photosynthesis, plants use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, which they use for energy and growth. Without sufficient light, plants can become weak and leggy, with poor growth and yield.

The Timing of Light for Plants

So, when should you put your pot plants under grow lights? The timing of light for plants depends on several factors, including the type of plant, the stage of growth, and the type of grow light being used. As a general rule, most plants require 14-18 hours of light per day during the vegetative stage and 12 hours of light per day during the flowering stage.

When starting seedlings or young plants, it's best to provide them with 16-18 hours of light per day. This encourages healthy growth and helps prevent leggy, weak plants. Once the plants reach the vegetative stage, you can reduce the lighting to 14-16 hours per day. During the flowering stage, reduce the light further to 12 hours per day to promote the formation of buds and flowers.

The Importance of Proper Light Placement

Another crucial factor to consider when using grow lights for indoor gardening is proper light placement. Placing the grow light too close to the plant can result in leaf burn, while keeping it too far away can result in weak plants. As a general rule, hang the grow light about 6-12 inches above the plants for fluorescent lights, 12-24 inches for LED lights, and 24-36 inches for high-intensity lights like metal halide or high-pressure sodium.

It's also important to consider the type of grow light being used. Different types of grow lights emit different spectrums of light, which can affect plant growth and development. For example, blue light promotes vegetative growth, while red light promotes flowering. Full spectrum LED lights are a popular choice for indoor gardening because they mimic natural sunlight and provide a wide range of spectrums for optimal plant growth.

Conclusion

In summary, when to put pot plants under light depends on several factors, including the type of plant, the stage of growth, and the type of grow light being used. Providing plants with the right amount and type of light is essential for their growth and development, while proper light placement can prevent damage to the plant. With these considerations in mind, you can successfully grow your indoor garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce all year round.