Is 14.2 PAR Good for Plants?

Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) refers to the wavelengths of light that plants use for photosynthesis. PAR is measured in units of micromoles per square meter per second (μmol/m2/s). When it comes to growing plants indoors, it is essential to ensure that your plants receive the correct PAR for optimal growth. 14.2 PAR may seem like a low amount, but is it good for plants?

Understanding PAR

PAR falls between the wavelengths of 400 to 700 nanometers, which fall within the visible range of light. It is the primary light that plants use for photosynthesis, and an increase in PAR can directly benefit plant growth. However, too much PAR can lead to heat stress or surplus light absorption, resulting in photoinhibition, which can damage your plants.

When measuring PAR, the following light ranges need to be considered:

Low light PAR: 150-200 μmol/m2/s

Partially shaded PAR: 200-400 μmol/m2/s

Full sun PAR: 400-700 μmol/m2/s

Is 14.2 PAR Good for Plants?

14.2 PAR is a low light level, which is not enough to sustain most plant species that require significant amounts of light. Low light levels can inhibit photosynthesis, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. However, some plant species can tolerate low light conditions and adapt to lower PAR levels. For these plants, 14.2 PAR may be sufficient for their growth needs.

If you are growing plants that require full sun PAR, 14.2 PAR will not be sufficient for their growth. It is essential to have the proper light intensity and quality to achieve optimal growth for your plants.

Factors Affecting PAR

The amount of PAR required for optimal plant growth varies depending on several factors. The following factors can impact your plant's PAR requirements:

Plant species: Different plant species require varying levels of PAR to achieve optimal growth.

Plant stage: Seeds and young plants require lower PAR than mature plants.

Light quality: The quality of the light affects the PAR received by the plant.

Light duration: The duration of light exposure impacts the PAR levels received by the plant.

Distance to the light source: The closer the plant is to the light source, the higher the PAR received.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 14.2 PAR may not be sufficient for most plant species that require significant amounts of light for optimal growth. However, some plants can adapt to lower light levels and may grow adequately with 14.2 PAR. It is crucial to research your specific plant species and the required PAR levels to achieve optimal growth. Furthermore, it is essential to provide the proper light intensity and quality for your plants to ensure they thrive and reach their full growth potential.