Thank you! These are the bulbs we used: GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_.KGTFbBXRRQHG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The biggest thing I did for the health of my high light plants was get supplemental lighting. A Reddit user recommended adding some lamps and once I did…. Amazing results. This was the bulb they recommended:
I use these GE grow lights in clamp lights. Plants seem to like them, and they’re not a weird color like some other grow lights you may have seen: GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, BR30, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YZS1A659RDP8WV9HXMD5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
a desk lamp can definitely hold a BR30 light bulb! I actually bought these before I bought the PAR38 lights and they work amazingly if you only have a few plants. The PAR38 is definitely gonna be better if you have tall/multiple plants, but they’re too heavy for desk lamps :(
If you use 2 shoe boxes, cut the ends into flaps, and glue/ tape them together, you’ll have an enclosure that’s twice the height, and about 3 times the grow height.
And I’d say this bulb or something similar would give you the light you want for the shoe box :
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_JTD3F3KMX4EQ94Z5D2Z0
The one that they’re under is a grow bulb maybe 4 inches above them.
GE Lighting BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FG61P2CDCEPYMKETKMYS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve had very good results with these: GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_jndNb7CPKGW8n
I have them on a lamp that has 3 lightbulbs and leave them on all night. Definitely needs more light. Hope that helps!
Fixture, yes. They make T8 LED grow bulbs that fit into fixtures, as well as A19 bulbs.
It's easier to grab a utility light and an A19 bulb than T8s, mostly.
Most plants don't care what KIND of light they get to grow as seedlings, but begin with the easiest fixture you can find and go up from there. Utility clamp lights with PAR30 sizing for your bulbs are my go-to choice.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_3DDHPEZKZFDWQ5X031G4
These also work pretty well for starters bulbs as well.
Start with what you have, upgrade as you can.
It honestly may not be enough long term. Depending on your budget, there are affordable LED growlight bulbs that can fit in most desk lamp fixtures like this --- https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=philips+grow+light+bulb&qid=1600626140&sprefix=philips+grow&sr=8-3
I haven't used halo grow lights, but I strongly recommend these GE grow lights which fit into any regular light fixture. They're lower PPF, but I've found that they work well for all of my plants and have led to consistent new growth.
The light fixtures are simply large reflector lights, which are relatively cheap (I got them on sale at a local hardware store for about $10 each). The light bulbs are GE Grow Lights that can be found on Amazon for $6-$10 each.
I chose the GE Grow Lights because they are inexpensive, and I trust them to be more reliable than many of the other no-name brands on Amazon. So far, they've worked brilliantly, and I've seen lots of new growth on all of my plants under them. They don't heat up, and they last a long time because they are LEDs.
I use three of these linked below in a special grow light fixture, my windows are north facing and dont offer bright light so I supplement with grow lights and my plants love them, I recommend to anyone who doesnt have the perfect lighting in their house. Only one room in my house has actual good natural light.
HII, I bought this one!! GE Grow LED Light Bulb, For Plants, For Seeds and Greens, Balanced Light Spectrum, Medium Base, BR30 Bulb Shape (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VMEF583NT92FHTJCK0XH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 I hope they survive D: i also bought a lamp stand for it :3
But thus is the link to amazon for it GE Grow Bombilla LED para semillas y verdes, espectro de luz equilibrado, base media, forma de bombilla BR30 (paquete de 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_DVHVKNQHGTE3ZCHHN2XM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I never really got a clear answer when I asked about this bulb. I got told it’s enough and got told it wasn’t enough, so I’m now looking at the bulb this post is mainly about. However, I already ordered the GE grow bulb
this is the light I have. Some leaves were looking like they were burning so I've raised(6-8" above) it and increased time, all of the new sprouts look a lot nicer than the first ones. I wasn't expecting them to sprout as fast as they did(1.5 days), so maybe that's a factor. I had them covered and warm at that point.
I ordered a timer! Didn't realize they had simple outlet ones.
Would this bulb work? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5WYT3YXVYSHP0FVXAYTR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I do have a little temperature gun but I don’t know how accurate it is, lol. I’ll consider getting more sophisticated technology, especially since I keep expanding my orchid collection.
I have my phal orchid in my bathroom counter and it’s about 4ft from a northeast facing window. I’m going to get a table lamp and a timer, but I was debating on what kind of full spectrum bulb to get. What exactly are the light requirements? I’ve read the term lux being thrown around. Would this bulb be okay?
I'm not a expert, I think this wouldn't give the Spectrum that plants need to grow.
GE Grow LED Light Bulb, For Seeds and Greens, Balanced Light Spectrum, Medium Base, BR30 Bulb Shape (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_BY5VF4N9QDGWFRJ7VWNF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought these and they work great
I have the GE Grow LED Light Bulb, For Seeds and Greens, Balanced Light Spectrum, Medium Base, BR30 Bulb Shape (Pack of 1) and keep it about 1ft above the plants, I will adjust the height to reduce the heat.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_Y1YSZTY2C2K0ZQE49XS8
Normally I recommend SANSI full-spectrum LED grow lights, but these have disappeared from Amazon (lots of other SANSI lights, but no grow lights).
I would spring for the extra 89¢ and buy the GE Grow Light LED instead; it's a higher-quality product.
I have almost no natural light this time of year and used this bulb with a painters light set on a timer. This plus a humidifier makes happy plants!
Her main source of light is my ceiling fan, I do have grow light bulbs GE Grow lightin it and the mirror to (hopefully) reflect some light. The window in this room faces east but she’s about 11ft from it so I do believe the light is her main source. It’s on about 12 hours a day.
I'm by no means an expert, I bought this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
a GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, along with a clamp lamp light for the bulb and it's kept all my plants growing this winter.
Also, for use in regular lamps (someone mentioned an IKEA swag lamp, you could also get a clamp-on an architect lamp) is the GE grow bulbs. Amazon and Lowes have them:
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have three, their color can pass for a regular bulb (almost) and the plants like them.
I've never had good luck with inexpensive LED grow lights. They don't seem to put out what they say (imagine that...). I've had good luck with GE's grow lights, as well as old-school fluorescent bulbs and such.
I currently have a few of these GE bulbs in a clamp on base and they're working great.
I use a GE LED Grow Light. I’ve tried a few others that look more purple/pink and they’ve worked okay but not the best. I started using the GE lights about a month ago and my plants seem to love it! You can get it off Amazon
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Balanced Spectrum, 9-Watts, 1 Count (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MGQXZW30XM4QME6T7TX3
I've had good results with these:
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Balanced Spectrum, 9-Watts, 1 Count (Pack of 1) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_YZCB3F3RW4AGJ2T048SS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The biggest weakness with bulbs is the small surface area. Plants do better with light coming in from a wider angle. But this GE bulb was enough to make some of my orchids blush with sun stress.
Thank you for the education! I went back and checked - apparently I got an LED light but I see now from what you are saying that the wattage is to low: GE LED Grow Light 9W
What if a added a lamb with this bulb aimed a whole lot more direct and concentrated at the area?
I have two of these running 12-14 hours a day, approximately 2 feet from the plants for one and 3 feet for the other.
I keep humidity between 60% and 80%.
I recently got a new job that has a full sun window, I can move it there if it’ll help and bring in a humidifier.
Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watts, 1-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8B9E8GN3BW7EC7K26ZM1
I don’t know if you’re able to access this, but I have some of these bulbs around my house in the winter months. I only use them as a supplementary light source, but maybe they’ll suit your needs?
This looks like a ginseng grafted bonsai? If so I've got one, it's pretty low maintenance. I've got it under two grow bulbs (these) which I have on for roughtly 12 hours, it's in a bonsai pot which I have filled with gravel and other gritty stuff and I keep it on a pebble tray which I keep full of water for humidty (although last time I cleaned it out there was shit swimming so now i let it dry out).
I just water it about once a week and it's doing great, need to clip it soon though because it's getting a bit too tall.
I’ve had success with this cheap bulb for my CPs and would expect it to be good enough for houseplants who don’t need as much light. It also depends on how far you plan to have the bulb from the plants. If you need something stronger, I’ve also had success with SANSI bulbs.
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watts, 1-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_B62C09MVDQ684DRM0F86
Oh! Sorry, missed that detail about the leaves being like that when you bought it. Then yes, I wouldn't worry about it at all. Most likely just a combination of getting too dry + maybe that side caught a bit more heat in the store.
Aww, sounds like you're taking great care of your plant. :) If you're really concerned about light, you could get a 9 watt GE grow light (currently $8.50 on Amazon). I have mine in a clamp lamp, and its light is very similar to a standard daylight lightbulb. (And as lovely as plants are, I can't do high-maintenance. The less I need to fiddle with them, the better. 😂 )
But chances are it'll be okay with lower light. More light = faster growth and faster usage of water, but as long as it gets some light and the watering situation is okay, it'll probably be fine.
You're very welcome! Yeah, growing plants definitely has a learning curve (like all things, I suppose). That's why I like doing searches on reddit - no matter what I'm learning, I can almost always find a similar newbie post somewhere on here. :) Happy to pay it forward!
Hello. I have worked extensively in the LED technologies industry. What you are looking for is a full spectrum luminaire. Depending on your needs these full spectrum lights, can cost any where from $3 and up. The cheapest solutions are simple Edison screw base replacements with 5000k - 6000k colour temp. While the cheapest of the bunch maybe fine, I would still encourage finding a good name brand like Phillips or OSRAM with an option for dimmable. For more expensive dedicated luminaires you can look for a full spectrum white LED ‘grow’ light, that will include UV A/B spectrums and red/blue spectrums. GE makes an economical Edison screw base replacement. https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=led+full+spectrum+grow+lights&qid=1634342909&sr=8-10. Stay away from the ugly purple or red and blue grow lights, they tend to be cheep, gimmicky, and/or more tuned to flowering or fruiting. Stick to the 5000-6000k temps and you will be fine.
It is also important that you do not look directly into full spectrum grow lights. Treat them as you would the sun.
Depends a lot on how much area you need to cover and which plants you want a grow light for. A good starting light is the 9 watt GE grow light bulb (currently $9), which goes into a normal bulb socket.
Most of my lights use a GE BR30 growlight bulb in some kind of reflective lamp (though the left PVN was grown under a bulb I screwed into a desk lamp). I have other types of bulbs in different fixtures but I've gotten the best colors from plants grown under the GE bulbs.
Not sure what prices you're looking at, but you can get a full spectrum 9w GE grow lightbulb for $8.50. GE says they can even grow lettuce indoors, so they're definitely bright.
I’ve got a couple of these and just put them in like a desk lamp. Been working well so far! My Chinese evergreen has been having more growth under this light than the sun lol
[https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6]($8 GE grow light) that fits standard lightbulb sockets. If you have a spare desk lamp it's a perfect solution.
As far as I know they don't mind it but it will block some light if they are bunched up.
GE makes grow lights now that you can place in most standard lighting fixtures/lamps. Link below to their Balanced Spectrum light. They also have an Advanced Red Spectrum light for flowers and fruit.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SXTNPYEJ15XAA1WAAMZF
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, 1 Count (Pack of 1), Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_N0QJTTS380R85M61DKCG
They come in both a balanced light spectrum (linked and appears to be what OP is using) and an advanced red light spectrum for flowers and fruits.
I just went on Amazon (of course) and did a trial by error. I ended up with this one that I've had no problems with. I still give my plants indirect light from a window and this bulb gives just enough for a boost of supplemental light. You can't go wrong with 9 watts. Amazon.com GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I bought mine in Nov (I live in the North East). Yours will have time to acclimate to your setting, so you should be okay.
One thing I did do is get a grow light... I hate those pink lights so I picked up this guy and added it to a floor lamp that sits a few feet above my cherished plants. I keep it on about 12 hours a day, year round, and so far, it's been about 10 months of no problems and happy plants.
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Hope she settles in quickly!
Do you think if I replaced the ceiling light bulbs with something like this, it would help?
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MNEV3EXX7D6B211QVT45
My humidity in a grow tent is about 30% and they grow fine. I'm almost absolutely certain this is an issue with your weak light. If you're on a tight budget, grow light bulbs in a desk lamp outperforms these bendy light stick things. I bought this one to save one of my under lit plants and it's worked wonders.
i have two of these (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QKEKZ5G20366C2C1KKKW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) bulbs in a three pronged floor lamp and i love them! they don’t heat up, and even tho some of the reviews say they make a weird buzzing noise, i haven’t heard that from either bulb. my one critique if anything would be that they’re larger than standard light bulbs, so they won’t fit in every fixture, but i haven’t had any issues with it!
edit: i can post a pic of the floor lamp i have if it helps!
Hello! I am looking for general advice for my four plants but I do have some specific questions:
Echeveria succulent - this plant is growing really tall and seems to pivot toward my grow lamp. My understanding is that succulents grow taller when they are reaching for light. It is receiving 8-10 hours of direct grow light lamp per day. Why is it growing tall? Is this okay?
Peace Lily - this is my pride and joy, about 1.5 years old. The leaf tips are usually brown but the plant seems to be thriving.
California Poppy sprouts - no major question here, I just planted these a few days ago in an old fruit tray and am keeping them moist with plastic wrap. They have started to sprout. Any tips welcome!
Care: this is the lamp that I use since the plants don't get adequate natural light. Is this an appropriate lamp for these plants? The plants get about 8-10 hours of light per day. I water them once per week (except the succulent) using tap water until the soil is thoroughly moist.
I got this bulb along with a ceiling spotlight fixture.
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FZRYFQFJH7Z2NP2HRRCV
My plants are all really happy in a west window, but they need a little “help” in winter since I live somewhere with long, dark winters. Definitely keep an eye on them, and if they get sad, keep a lamp near them and swap the bulb with a full spectrum LED light bulb, and either keep it on all day to supplement the light, or turn it on when the sun starts to go down and leave it on till you go to bed. if you’re in the US, I recommend GE’s 9w GE’s 9w LED , because it’s cheap, you can find it online or in Home Depot or Lowe’s (maybe Walmart too?), and it runs on low enough watts for almost any normal light fixture.
I’m moving from my lovely west facing windows to a place with only East facing windows, and I’m pretty sad about that. But I didn’t have other options
Lol..does look like that. I’m using this one
All my other plants are doing great under these..
I’ve been using this bulb for my parlor palm and it seems really happy, and it’s a white color instead of blue or red like many led grow bulbs, but it may not fit a normal fixture since it’s larger than a A9 bulb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_jvZaGb6J28YGE
Yes I do. I use these bulbs from Amazon in a three way light angled down on my plants.
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_Rk53Fb958Z8ZY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just bought this one based on this post. I’ll put it in a decorative lamp near my FLF. GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dlC_MuaYFbG4FP7RC
Here are the bulbs: GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_.KGTFbBXRRQHG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. Im planning to keep them on 12-16 hours a day.
This is the grow light I’m using https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TT2LFbR62K9D3
Light is 2.5-3 ft away and on for roughly 12 hours a day. Is that too much? Is it too close?
All of my jewel orchids are leggy & I’m not sure if that’s just how they are or if they need more light. PPP & white wizard have low variegation & much smaller new leaves but the leaves burn easily. Albo new growth is smaller as well, & the white parts on older leaves brown & break my heart.
Now I know some of these things may be normal, but I feel like the light is somehow both too intense and too dim?
Please give me advice/wisdom. I know nothing about grow lights & want to help my babies!
I'm in Portland OR and I'm using several of these bulbs in my North East facing windows:
I'd just put a lamp on the left side and angle it towards the right side. You can add another lamp where the fishtank area is and do the same to the left. That should properly flood the area. There's a brighter $35 bulb by GE but your area is small enough I think if 1 doesn't fill the area with adequate light than 2 would do the job. Honestly mine I have almost a few inches from some plants due to size but I have a little begonia that is clearly growing up towards the light bulb about 6" away. You want to find a lamp that will bend and swivel plus allow for a big bulb in it. For my I just have them hung up from the ceiling which could work but it's a spotlight effect so it would only hit 1 area.
Youtuber PlantMeAshley has smaller bulbs from Home Depot in a lamp from the same place in her set up that could work in your space too. Honestly I'm not using any science, just trying to add extra light and then move plants around to keep the shade lovers lower from the beams.
I use one of these as a satellite grow light. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rIJHFbG8Z40VW You should be able to find something comparable in the UK.
Was plenty of light for 1-2 orchids, whose leaves were blushing after some time under it. One of them might be enough to get your mango through winter, but might not be optimal during the growing season.
Rather than several of those, you might try one of the many different LED grow lights out there you can probably get for under 100£. Might be more expensive than just getting a couple generic lamps (maybe one with multiple bulbs?) and LED bulbs though.
Similar situation, I have one big southeast facing window that gets great light, but I wanted to spread the plants out. I bought these bulbs: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 They fit in standard lamps so I didn't have to put tube lights everywhere. For plants that like bright light they need to be within 16" of the bulb. My lower light plants are just outside that, or off to the side and are loving it.
I use these bulbs which work exceptionally well, and emit a white light instead of the typical purple. Soltech and Modern Sprout also have some cute (albeit pricy) options.
I use these bulbs in my fixtures. Full spectrum, bright white, so it looks normal in the room. You'll want to make sure the fixture is wide enough for them, but otherwise they fit a normal light socket.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_.03CFbFPF7BHN
I also use the GE single bulbs and some LED bars.
This is the single bulb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_BqexFbES86M2A
I have them in some basic metal desk lamps so they look a little nicer in the room and have more flexibility. They don't cover a large area, but it's nice for a small space and a cheap starter light if you only have a few plants.
GE BR30 Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, 9-Watt, Full, Balanced Lighting For Seeds & Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_jy.tFb7JMT4X6
I bought this one because of its great reviews and price, since it will only be supplementary for a single plant in a 2-3 liter pot.
Thoughts?
My understanding is that in general for your browsing the full spectrum ones are best - I hope that helps!
Hey! This plant is 15 days old, it’s currently in a hempy cup but soon will be transferred to a hempy bucket. Here’s what’s unusual about it:
I only have 1 tent with a Mars Hydro Ts-1000 in it. Currently have a photoperiod in it, under 12/12 light. So what I’m doing with this gorilla glue is transferring it to the tent for 12 hours while the lights are on, then keeping it in a filing cabinet I made into a starter/cloning tent under a less powerful light for the other 12 hours. This is the light I’m keeping it under while the tent is off.
What do you think?
Yes! They’re a bit bright for a living room lamp but it’s been fantastic for my plants. I used two GE vegetative growth bulbs & one to promote blooming just in case but they’ve actually got them at grocery stores now! Here’s an amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_AUTLEbCYMJHSQ
Zz Raven? Current specimen aren't that large yet though. .. Amazon has these in stock right now
Cast iron plant - very slow grower but comes in solid green, a speckled variegat called milky way, and another one that is striped - also available on Amazon.
If you don't mind a grow light, then that would really expand your options. There's also the option of just using grow light bulbs instead of the led fixtures, that way you aren't having to alter any interior design of your space. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CocgEbB10RBY7
Pick up some grow lights! These are the ones I have. They've been working great and come in different sizes as well depending on your needs!
Really? That’s a little depressing to know. Well, at the very least the clamp lamps keep the place brighter.
I use this GE grow light that is only 10 bucks for my ZZ plants that are further away from the window and they’re doing really well. New buds are growing.
If you have Amazon in usa:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IOK2SHU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0786X9FBH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Buy a plant "hanger" thing like this: https://www.amazon.com/Mkono-Decorative-Straight-Planters-Lanterns/dp/B07QYZB39K/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=plant+hanger&qid=1576099127&sr=8-7
I'm no expert but my plants love this bulb. Has a natural looking light and is just a standard bulb size for any lamp.
I’m using 4 of these bulbs:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qCBfFbS45FW0N
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It's a life saver! LMK if the link doesn't work :)
I’m using this bulb inside a movable lamp
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, BR30, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KVN9S0R21X0A3YQEZWX5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I like the ones that look like bright white bulbs
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I'm not an expert, but mine are in LECA and they seem to really like it. the mom plant isn't doing great after the transfer but the babies love it. I have a grow lightto keep them not looking sparse and I feed them this every other watering cycle.
Wasn't sure if this was worthy of a post, so I'll try here first.
Early last year I was given a medium sized aloe plant by a family member and decided to go buy a few more from Lowe's. It's been 18 months now and I have a few questions relating to the health of the plants, because I believe I'm doing something wrong.
Issue #1: Puny Aloe pups that react adversely to direct sunlight
I cannot figure out if I'm watering them too often, not often enough, if they dislike the extra light during the winter, etc. They're generally poor and unhealthy looking. If exposed to direct sunlight, they quickly start to become tinted a brown or redish color. I can't seem to get these things to thrive and look healthy.
Issue #2: My larger plant keeps growing upwards instead of outwards.
Same conditions as described above, I re-planted it in a clay pot after receiving it from a family member in February of Last year and that's it. Same watering regimen, light, etc. This plant looks quite healthy and is growing fairly quickly. Unfortunately, it keeps growing upwards, not outwards. Now, I thought this was due to the nearly overhead light during the winter, so I'm trying to correct it by placing the plant outside in direct sunlight and rotating the pot throughout the week. Is there any way to stop the plant and the leafs from trying to reach upwards and start growing out?
Any help will be very much appreciated!
I use these type of bulbs and they are great https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_S7VZQK6JRCPCHGMZGB9W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes! It’s a super cheap floor lamp from ikea. I have these bulbs in a couple different lamps, any lamp that has a medium base (BR30) would totally work!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZRAW0W7MDRPJ4YKASNJJ
The frist one is fine the 2nd one will not load. The past 3 years I have been using two of these.
This year I have switched over to these
It's not so much the amount of money for the lights, but the light they give off. Blue/Red lights are great for specialized growing phases, where as full spectrum white lights are good generalist for all phases.
​
(Here's one I'm using for my current set up, growing raspberries, tomatoes, and potatoes indoors with this light)
Some of them are good, some are crap. Personally I've gone through many different types of grow lights and the ones I've really grown to love are the bulbs that you can screw into regular lamps - low/med light and high light. I put them in swing arm desk and floor lamps so they blend with my decor. They look so much better than clamp lamps.
i use the GE grow light bulb, i want to try the sansi grow lights but theyre kinda pricey 😬
I like these bulbs and you put them in whatever light you have. I’ve also attached to IKEA hanging cords:
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6/
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101232-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NNT3G7J/
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_dlC_94aYFbV7TBRBZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Try amazon smile to donate to a charity of your choice automatically at no cost to you!
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
^^^I'm ^^^a ^^^bot ^^^and ^^^this ^^^action ^^^was ^^^performed ^^^automatically.
Thank you everyone for all the love! It’s funny because Reddit actually made me buy SOT in the first place. 😊 These two are under these grow lights for 12 hours a day. The VSOH gets watered around every 10-14 days when the hearts are slightly bendable; SOT every 7 days. They also get MiracleGro diluted to half the recommended concentration on packaging with every other watering.
I personally found VSOH to propagate very well in water; however, you do have to remove lower leaves so that they don’t rot in the water. I also tried soil propagating by pinning down cuttings with bobby pins and planting one node cuttings (butterfly method). They just take longer to root in soil, and it’s tricky to balance wet vs. dry this way, so I prefer water propagation.
For SOT, I laid 2” cuttings on top of soil and kept the whole thing in a closed Ziplock. I blew air into it every once in a while, and took it out when the new growth was 1” long.
I hope this helps everyone!
Ps - I am not selling cuttings of these or making any cuttings to share, for those of you who sent messages. ❤️
I only have experience with two so far but I’ve had them both about two months and my plants are doing great under them! They can seem kinda bright at first but I’ve gotten so used to the extra light I really love it now. The bigger one has kinda a pinkish tint to it, it’s lovely. I did research and these both met all the important things, broad spectrum, energy efficient, and long warranties. Idk if I can post them as links so I’ll try and i can’t I’ll dm them to you ☺️
https://smile.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6
https://smile.amazon.com/ANTLUX-Spectrum-Integrated-Greenhouse-Hydroponic/dp/B07PBNCX5G
$1 topsoil. Blasting Sand cap. This light bulb...
GE Lighting BR30 Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb for Indoor Plants - 9W, Full, Balanced Lighting For Seeds & Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nNkfFbRS3JWZ7
The "colored white stuff" looks like mineral/salts build-up from either hardwater and/or over fertilizing. The coloration could be staining from elements in the substrate.
There is a chance of fungus depending on how damp you kept the substrate but I'm guessing not likely because the stem/base of the plant looks good.
I would sprinkle a bit of baking cinnamon powder on the cut point. It will promote callousing and act as an antibacterial but it needs to be relatively fresh, not years old.
The hydrogen peroxide was a good move. Hope you also wiped the scissor blades with isopropyl alcohol before hand and after. It's a best practices thing.
If adequate light¹ is provided from this point, you should start seeing new growth at the cut point... possibly branching... taking place in two to six weeks.
Water as per your routine and environment.
•••••
¹ If your budget allows, I would suggest a full-spectrum white grow-light or replacement bulb if you want this little dude to live its best life.
If you should decide to do this, the plant needs to be incrementally adapted to higher light levels or you will scorch the leaves.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0B8NH9ZLJ/
Or something similar to mine.... https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07QJXK6XD/
Also very popular....https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B099PLYWCM/
Hi all,
I bought this grow light bulb for my rubber tree to supplement the poor winter light from a north facing window.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_4JI6Fb4GYQARG?_encoding=UTF8&th=1
But I wonder if my plant needs a stronger / additional lights given its size? Especially since those lower leaves aren't getting as much light from my current lamp. Some of the leaves are fading in color, and the whole plant is visibly leaning.
Any recommendation for grow lights?
I have this as my ceiling light in my plant room and it's great. I also have LED lights that have been in that space before I got all my plants and are in a dimmable wall mounted lamp which is working well for my succulents and leafy plants. Message me and I can send a picture to clarify if you want.
What if i replace it with one of these plant light bulbs? https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6
It's only 9 watts
I like these: GE Lighting 93101230 9-Watt... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I use plastic cling wrap to make sure my seeds germinate. That helps a ton. I have two of these bulbs for early on:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y14Q211XA0409579SAK2
You can get an lamp outlet from home depot or online.
This will be enough light for up until the plant gets to the early stages of producing. Its more than enough light for incredible basil plants. Transfer the peppers to the fire escape, but bring into a tent when no sun.
A highly rated plurple type led can be used instead of the fire escape. I have a 2x4 tent with two oscillating fans and a $400 led light that doesn't move the energy bill much.
https://horticulturelightinggroup.com/collections/lamps/products/hlg-300l-rspec
You can find cheaper alternatives on alibaba
maybe I need another / brighter lamp on it?
This is what I'm using https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o06\_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
I can stick a fan in there, or keep the window cracked. $100 is fine, it's not so much the money (I mean, money is always a consideration) it's mainly about the space and to be honest, how the lighting looks. My apartment is only about 550sqft so there's no area I can really dedicate to a lighting setup other than maybe a corner of my bedroom. Is the light you're talking about just a bulb? Or is it some kind of fixture?
This is the bulb I have shining on it right now: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Hi! Did a quick skim of the comments and wanted to add/reiterate a few things I've learned along the way :)
Hope this helps!
Get a plant light for it! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_DCSCGTDFA8FBBVKQ8BSD
I bought this grow light and have a timer but don't know how many hours after sunset it should turn off
I am no professional by any means... but I have used a few depending on my needs.
I have this one in a gooseneck GE
Also have been happy with this onecircle light
For my Variegated monstera I needed a tall light - love the light but the timer stopped working on 2 units. Light is great though. Tall one
Yes it was meant to be growth light light GE Grow LED Light Bulb, For Seeds and Greens, Balanced Light Spectrum, Medium Base, BR30 Bulb Shape (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MPVXE5TQ3G8CDSY1GF0Q
id actually reccomend hanging one from the ceiling closer to the plants, 6 ft away won’t really do anything. here’s the bulb i use
Yes of course! Here you go
GE Grow LED Light Bulb, For Seeds and Greens, Balanced Light Spectrum, Medium Base, BR30 Bulb Shape (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_EJWB0D1TZW0H7M8YN2TN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I think if the new begonia had mites, it'd definitely be effected by now too. I assume it's totally happy? If that's the case, I think it might be that light. It looks pretty hardcore, haha. Of course, it doesn't have quite the same lineup of stats as my bulb, so it's making it a little harder to crunch numbers...
For comparison, this was the bulb that cooked my AVs. That little rinky dink light says it's 15 PPF and if I'm reading right that one says more like 600. So note that though I'm a novice at this math, rudimentary googling suggests if you double the distance you'll get 1/4 the light. So if it's saying 600 at 18 inches, then at 36" (which is still not 4 feet) it should be more like 150 there. I think closer to 40-50PPFD is what you want for AVs (this site says 40-80 but I know I've seen another site suggest 50, so def the lower end of it). My brain is short circuiting for trying to figure out the dropoff to a full 4 feet but it might still be too high at that point, and if so, heck yes, moving there somewhere less bright is an easy fix!
This page on AVSA has a bunch of people talking about their setups, but one in particular the person says it's 3000-3500 lux for standard, 4500-5000 Lux for minis, but I see other sites saying more or different ranges... I trust AVSA more than the others honestly. If you test with a light meter and it's up over 10,000 it's probably light as the issue.
To give you a rough idea of what light level people do use, I have my plants under normal LED light strips. I've got 4 attached to each shelf but I probably only would have needed 3, I had to turn down the brightness from max significantly to make the plants happy -- I grow them at about 6" distance from crown to light, other setups that are similar have more distance. I legit grow my plantlets under a clamp light with a totally normal LED bulb at maybe 18" away and they seem fine.
I will also note variety also does play a big part too. Optimara plants are known for wanting lower light, and I think Russian/Ukrainian varieties also sometimes want less too. I've heard people say variegated needs more just as much as I've heard people say variegated needs less so jury is out on that one, haha.
I think the rule of thumb I read re: repotting was every 6 months for standards, every 3 or 4 for minis, so if it's been significantly longer for your plants, might be something to try too.
The flower did look weird -- I had some that were kind of mangled like that when I was under the old light setup, but it also seemed to fix itself when I wick watered the plant -- I kept having buds blast instead of open fully, so it could have been a combination of both. Do you know if that variegated one that looks super pink is supposed to be more of a white or is it actually supposed to be pink? Higher light will bring out the red on some of the variegated ones, and on the backs of a good percentage of normal ones. Like if you have a usually medium to dark green plant, it might not be a true red backed variety, but if it's under too much light I have noticed some will get red on the backs of the tough leaves (but not the old, normal ones). I think I removed the most offensive twisted leaves on some of mine, but there were some where you could see the tip of the leaf had red and the part near the center had less because that's when I adjusted the light.
If you do use the microscope, hopefully you spot nothing, of course. But I will also note as someone who recently had a big mite scare (I came from the "I have spotted bug, but no plant damage, what is this" angle), that if you do spot bugs on them, make sure there aren't similar ones in the soil mix as well. I had mold/soil mites crawling all over my plants and they look reasonably similar to the bad mites (tarsonemids) but are slightly larger, more hairy on the rear ends, and they hang out in the dirt and on leaves, not just in the crown. I actually contacted a guy off Youtube who does integrated pest management for a living and he confirmed what I had captured looked more like mold mites... From his videos, this is how tarsonemids look, and mold mites. Hopefully if you do see something that could help with an ID -- and also hopefullly if you do it's those dang mold mites since they just look spooky and theoretically don't hurt the plant.
I use a lamp from Target & GE grow light bulbs from amazon. The lamp is maybe a foot away from the plants: https://www.target.com/p/5-head-floor-lamp-room-essentials/-/A-81084777?preselect=79810196#lnk=sametab
Its 9w this is what I have
I use this grow light. No fertilizer since I haven’t seen the need to.
Its growing slowly because it needs more light and possibly more water, although 1X is sufficient if you are totally soaking it.
I recently got This LED Bulb with this Reflector the bulb is LED so no heat coming off them and total set up is around $25.
But before I got grow lights, mine are in a south-facing window all year round and grow like crazy, mostly after watering.
This gave my monstera a leaf burn when I first hooked it up ~8 hours a day. I should have ramped it up a bit slower lol. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/
These keep a wide variety of medium light plants happy, plants about 6 inches from the lights. I have them attached to the underside of bookshelf shelves and it works great. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B086W1KK2B/
I grabbed a grow light bulb from GE and stuck it into a random standing lamp and my plants love it. I try to place it between 12-24 inches away from the plant, but watch the heat. The trick is you have to get a bulb made for plants and labeled "full spectrum." I live in Wisconsin and there is not enough light in the winter according to my plants, lol. But this really made a difference. I hope it helps. I will attach links for the bulb I bought, and another listing that I've heard good things about. I will probably try these myself next time, it's a 4 pack and a fantastic price. Good luck!!!
Haha, I know that feeling! I currently use this white grow bulb: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And also this red/blue light: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CBBQWV2/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B08CBBQWV2&pd_rd_w=rcNtz&pf_rd_p=887084a2-5c34-4113-a4f8-b7947847c308&pd_rd_wg=F0AXQ&pf_rd_r=ZVHPARPTPVJ6SVNH1FQA&pd_rd_r=1d209580-ef7b-4c98-9a66-476ff...
Also, you might check out your local buy nothing group and/or houseplants group on facebook. I've definitely seen some folks get free grow lights and or swap plants/plant pots/etc. for grow lights.
I’ve used these for the past two years (when I bring my plants in for the winter): Amazon link
I keep them 1-2 ft away from the plants, and use one of those metal dome enclosures that you can get at the hardware store to direct the light.
I’m planning on using T10 stoplights for seedlings this year though, I’ve heard great things.
I also use this (sorry, can’t get the link to work): GrowLED LED Indoor Garden, Herb Garden, Kitchen Garden, Height Adjustable, 20W Grow Light, Automatic Timer, Ideal for Plant Grow Novice Or Enthusiasts, Various Plants, DIY Decoration, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GQPFVPY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_A4CBHB3XESE30A9XM8Y4
I’m not sure about seedlings, but it’s worked well for my mature cacti and keeps strong variegation in my plants. I’ve had it for 2 years or so now.
In case it can't be copied from the title..
You may try getting a growlight to supplement the light it's been getting may not be enough. Gettimg a low growlight was a game changer for me and I now get consistent spikes from my phal even without the temp change.
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Balanced Spectrum, 9-Watts, 1 Count (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_6ZWFAQ9E2GA2TF9YYE7H
Or if you have shelving these work great as well: LED Grow Light Strips for Plants,Cholas 36W 132 LEDs Auto ON & Off Function,3/6/12H Timer 5 Dimmable Levels and 3 Switch Modes for Indoor Plants Gardening Greenhouse 3 Pack (Full Sepectrum Light) (L) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T8H9HJB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_VSZXF1625YP7V2D33ZN0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.48 | $8.48 | 4.6/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
What's your grow light schedule and bulb? I recently started using a GE grow bulb, but haven't determined my long term schedule.
What's your grow light schedule and bulb? I recently started using a GE grow bulb, but haven't determined my long term schedule.
Get some of these and some of these. Relatively cheap and easy. I spent ~$100 and all of my plants have enough light for winter
Get some of these and some of these
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
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GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
Barrina Plant Light, 144W(6 x 24W, 800W Equivalen… | $59.99 | $59.99 | 4.6/5.0 |
UNIT FARM UF1000 LED Plant Grow Lights Full Spect… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
MARS HYDRO TS 600W LED Grow Light 2x2ft Coverage… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
I've never had an oregano plant, but I have a comment suggesting plant grow lights from dimmest to brightest here: https://www.reddit.com/r/houseplants/comments/q4mk98/comment/hfzst9f/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
tl;dr A good first option may be a $9 GE 9w grow lightbulb, which GE says is designed to work for lettuce and kale. If you need higher power, I've listed other options in the comment. Hope it helps!
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
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GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
SANSI Grow Light Bulb with COC Technology, Full S… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
GE Relax HD Flood Light Dimmable LED Light Bulbs,… | $21.98 | $21.98 | 4.9/5.0 |
VIVOSUN Clamp Lamp Light with Detachable 8.5 Inch… | $26.98 | $26.98 | 4.5/5.0 |
SPIDER FARMER SF-300 LED Grow Light Sunlike Full… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
Barrina Plant Light, 144W(6 x 24W, 800W Equivalen… | $59.99 | $59.99 | 4.6/5.0 |
UNIT FARM UF1000 LED Plant Grow Lights Full Spect… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
MARS HYDRO TS 600W LED Grow Light 2x2ft Coverage… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
GE Lighting Grow Light BR30 LED Light Bulb for In… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
SANSI Grow Light Bulb with COC Technology, Full S… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
GE Relax HD Flood Light Dimmable LED Light Bulbs,… | $21.98 | $21.98 | 4.9/5.0 |
VIVOSUN Clamp Lamp Light with Detachable 8.5 Inch… | $26.98 | $26.98 | 4.5/5.0 |
SPIDER FARMER SF-300 LED Grow Light Sunlike Full… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Cute baby plants! For evaluating lights, it's worth downloading a free lux meter on your phone. It'll be wildly inaccurate compared to a proper light meter, but it's better than guessing based on our eyes.
I expect those lights to be relatively dim, so I'd start with 16 hours on, 8 hours off. That's also the max I'd go, since plants need a dark period. Since they're LEDs, I expect they stay cool? which means they can probably be within a few inches of your plants without burning them (I'd keep them within 3 to 12 inches). But you want to be careful with humidity - cheap LED lights can short and spark under humid conditions. And I'd guess it has a USB plug, so be careful about sparks from there too.
I'd prioritize the light on your hoya and snake plant. The snake plant's yellow border will start fading to green if it wants more light, and hoyas won't flower without enough light (though it may be a few years before your hoya carnosa matures enough to flower). Pothos and ZZ will grow faster with more light, but they're fine in low light.
Along with variegation, phototropism is a good indicator of light needs. Not sure about S. Laurentii, but my S. Futura Robusta will turn towards light within a couple days if it wants more, and it stays still when it's satisfied.
As an alternative, in order from least to most bright:
Lots of people enjoy the GE 9w grow light ($9), which screws into a regular bulb socket.
If you want a bit brighter, you can move up to a Sansi 15w grow light ($15). The Sansi lights are less efficient than GE, but the jump in power makes up for it.
GE also makes a 32w grow light, but it runs hot despite being an LED, and it weighs almost 2 lbs. I returned it because it felt like a safety hazard to hang above my plants.
Instead, I got 120w-equivalent LED flood lights - these GE Relax PAR38 bulbs ($22) - and put them in clamp lamps with reflectors ($27 now; I got them for $19). They're very bright, and mine are barely warm to the touch after being on for 12 hours straight. (You could also use CFL flood lights - they're cheaper and emit a more efficient light spectrum for plants - but they'll run hot. Personally, since I'm leaving my lights on when I'm away all day at work, I'm more comfortable playing it safe and staying with cool LEDs.)
I ended up getting this SPIDER FARMER SF-300 LED Grow Light ($73) as well. It's pricey, but it covers a larger area and has been more than bright enough to keep my variegated plants happy. It's also safe for humid environments and barely gets warm after being on 12+ hours. But all your plants are tolerant of low light, so I'd say it's overkill for your needs.
...yeah, I spent a while down the grow light rabbit hole when I was setting my plants up. The joys of only having a deeply shaded north-facing window. 😅 Hope it helps!
Item | Current | Lowest | Reviews |
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GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, 1 Count (Pac… | $8.52 | $8.52 | 4.6/5.0 |
Barrina Plant Light, 144W(6 x 24W, 800W Equivalen… | $59.99 | $59.99 | 4.6/5.0 |
UNIT FARM UF1000 LED Plant Grow Lights Full Spect… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
MARS HYDRO TS 600W LED Grow Light 2x2ft Coverage… | - | - | 4.5/5.0 |
^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger
Personally, I just experiment. Tricky part is of course, lighting gets expensive. To that end, I'd rather stay cheaper and use multiple units.
I use a $30 lux meter to do a rough estimate of brightness (it's not PAR, of course, but relative is all I'm looking for)...doing 12" and 24" distance measurements centered, and 12"/24" on either axis to the side, to get a rough how the lights stack up.
Some lights I have, just for example...not a recommendation for any of them, although I do like the utility of the strips and the separate-driver UnitFarm:
Verrry roughly, the price is quite closely mapped to the output. 2x GE Bulbs == 1 strip. 4x strips == 1 UF1000. 2x UF1000 == 1 TS600.
The IDOOs lights rates at about one 24W strip (which makes sense, given the same rating). BUT, those tomatoes are growing very close to the light, so there is very little falloff...it's about 15,000 lux at 3" away where the main canopy is, and even higher at the top leaves. The plants on my tower get about the same lux levels from the TS600 at 18"...inverse square law is a jerk.
So, a big difference is the light falloff and distances involved. You'll notice the grows where there is a big light, it's usually hung up and not just an inch or two off the plant. With the little garden tanks, light is often a lot closer. But also requires, if you're growing tomatoes, these little microdwarf plants that can stay super compact. (You probably already know this, but https://renaissancefarms.org/product-category/tomato-categories/micro-dwarf-tomatoes/ and https://heritageseedmarket.com/index.php/product-category/dwarf-tomatoes/micro-dwarf-tomatoes/ have a pretty nice selection.)
Anyway -- each time I grow something I just note what it was and what nutrients it got, what light levels it got, etc...tweak, and repeat. But I also do a lot of things you shouldn't do...high/low light levels, high/low nutrients, intense pruning of should-be-large plants, etc to see what happens. Often plants can do pretty well in not great conditions, and also just curious. Start cheap, see what happens. Worst case, seeds are the cheapest part of all this.
And...I haven't eaten the IDOO Orange Hat's yet. It's still possible it doesn't work out. :)
> 300 W (real) for 1 determinant tomato plant
Not sure I have the math right, but I just went outside in clear full sun and measured 120,000 lux. About 3" from my 100W light I got the same.... So up super close, that's like 3 suns for dwarf tomato.
I've got about 400 (real) watts of LED light running inside right now, for about 60 plants. I am trying some bigger stuff, so may need to add-on, but it's mostly happy at the moment.
I have these in my desk lamps, my plants seem to love them:
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, 1 Count (Pack of 1), Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Q6P3TECWCZ8T3XYQYKCF
I have a few grow lights …
This one works well and you can put it in a standard lamp. I have two that preside over an aloe, and over my strings of coins, bananas, dolphins and pearls. GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, 1 Count (Pack of 1), Balanced Spectrum https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YBA1QD6ZDF3VCB2NCT01?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I also have this larger grow light which has a much broader range, and is more powerful. I have a bunch of succulents under these. (Pack of 8) Kihung Under Cabinet Light 2ft,10W,1100lm,6500K (Super Bright White),Utility led Shop Light, LED Ceiling Light and T5 LED Tube Light Fixture, Corded Electric with Built-in ON/Off Switch https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07FF7C7KF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4X0E3EDGNDHR20XD52S8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have 2 of these: Bulbs I have 1 variation of this: Squid light And 2 of these: Misc lights
I have 2 of these: Bulbs I have 1 variation of this: Squid light And 2 of these: Misc lights
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
These worked great with mine. I just put them in lamps near my plants . My plants (alocasias included) love them
Deal link: Amazon
I'm using this one for my desk lamp currently and my plants seem to like it https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6
Also I am considering getting this one for winter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YNBXP2D
These were the lights I was using before, and switched them to these lights.
I have two of them mounted about 2-3 feet above my plant shelf, and initially put them in because my adansonii next to this was putting out small yellowish leaves. Now all the plants are thriving on the shelf :)
How many do you use per plant?
I bought these but yours seems stronger
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, BR30, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/
Light matters! Here's a pic of my bird of paradise. The tall but small leaf in front came out under one grow bulb. The huge leaf behind it came out under two grow bulbs.
These are the two bulbs I'm using on this plant.
It's near a window but it does not get any sunlight. It's a dark corner. Yes, two grow bulbs. This is the one on top with the pinkish white hue, and this is the warm yellow one.
I got the BOP on January 12. It pushed out one new leaf under just one light. This newest one that is huge pushed out under 2 lights.
This is the grow light I use. I don’t know how to add a pic of my seedling
It's the Hektar lamp from IKEA and the bulb is the GE balanced spectrum grow light.
I've had it since September, it's on for about 15 hours a day, about 6-7 inches from the bulb.
What would you do with it?
That being said different types of plants have different requirements. A bulb like this will appear white to the eye but provide a good spectrum for growing. There are more efficient and brighter solutions for fast growing plants but for something that is slow growing these should be appropriate for you. https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6
I'm moving cross country next month so am selling this kit I put together a while back when I did a jungle bowl scape. You can see what that looked like in the last 2 pics of the gallery and these videos:
You get everything you need to do your own scape minus the plants, fish and substrate.
Items:
You can use this kind of single-bulb light.
https://www.amazon.com/GE-Lighting-93101230-Balanced-Spectrum/dp/B07NN6SVG6
Or also
a more popular design using LED
https://www.amazon.com/Spectrum-Vegetables-Seedlings-Hydroponics-Greenhouse/dp/B079NM682K/
I have mine under this . It's in a swag light in the corner. Looks just like a regular light.
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_4JI6Fb4GYQARG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Mind linking the one you got? I’m only seeing this. I know full-spectrum is super important.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_aae5FbMCTXKN1
So this is the light I bought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_3JJ0FbJC5KG6F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 and lamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QZZ24K7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_GKJ0FbNN0GVTA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. I've had them since the beginning of November. I'd say I usually have the lamp on for about 12 hours a day. I turn it on in the morning and off in the evening. Watering probably twice a week being careful not to over water because it's in a pot without a drainage hole. I painted the white plastic on the bulb black with acrylic matte black and taping off the edges for it to look better. Besides the new leaves, there were yellowing ones that turned green again, so he's a very happy Monstera!
You could get grow lights? A regular florescent bulb will work, like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabt1_dlC_faWWFb9BK66TH
I found this at Ross. It was the only one at the location I was at! I am using a grow light similar to this in design, I except I got mine at a local nursery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_Q8eTFb6Q3BTB2
Not op but I tend to use GE grow lights in whatever sconce or fixture i like. Here's one of the lamps, here's another, and a sconce, for example. The bulbs seem to be more effective than cheapo clamp lamps and I like that the fixtures can be blended in to my decor.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N2yLFbTKVYMHD I got this one cause it was cheap and it doesn’t give off a super pink glow, and it’s been working really well for my propagation and flfs!
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TRxLFbQK54T8W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I actually just use a balanced spectrum and a hanging lamp I out together with parts from Amazon. Didn't love the look of anything in the market, so I threw this together for about 20 bucks!
GE Lighting 93101230 9-Watt BR30... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?
Rustic State Industrial Retro Style Mesh Wire Cage for Pendant Ceiling Lamp (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0786X9FBH?
Sure I have a bunch of different kinds and settled on some favorites. My #1 pick is GE 9W full spectrum. I use them in desk lamps, floor lamps, I even have them in wall sconces mounted over plant shelves.
My plants also respond really well to this clamp lamp too.
This bulb: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
This lamp: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HX2EVPS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
That’s the best selling grow light on Amazon, and it’s popular on all of the houseplant forums. And I love the architect lamp to be able to move the light around. Highly recommend both! My only other advice would be to avoid the purple grow lights. I did a bit of research and everything I read said they don’t really work. There’s research that plants actually like full spectrum light, so be sure to look for that if you go for a different bulb option!
Here is my winterized plant desk :) https://imgur.com/a/REXdP5K
Use regular desk lamps and sconces with a GE LED grow bulb! Example, another, I even have command strip-mounted sconces with grow lights for my tall plants.
How about this one? GE BR30 Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, 9-Watt, Full, Balanced Lighting For Seeds & Greens https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XgJDFbM9KYTB9
This is one I use. Bright white. The base of the bulb fits a standard socket, but the 'head' of the bulb is wide, so be sure it fits in whatever fixture you have. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QuKxFb9PJQHJC
It’s under the grow light for 12 hrs a day and get watered when the leaves are squishy (around every 10 days). 😊
Just to really hammer it home, this guy is BEGGING for a lot more light. Luckily, you have a lot of great cheap options. If this is the only one you're planning on using a grow light for, single bulbs like THIS or THIS are great options. You can just put them in any lamp that works for the voltage. People often use the desk clamp goose neck lamps. Or just a regular old desk lamp too. It will make such a huge difference. There are a lot more options out there but the key is making sure any light you consider is "full spectrum".
I’ve been using a GE grow light in a light clamp just as a cheap way of getting started doing herbs and lettuce. I think it should cover 12-15 inches of area.
GE BR30 Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, 9-Watt, Full, Balanced Lighting For Seeds & Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mzYpFb9JZWKY7
VIVOSUN Clamp Lamp Light with Detachable 8.5 Inch Aluminum Reflector up to 150 Watt E26 Socket (No Bulb Included), 6 Feet Cord, UL Listed, Pack of 2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H8G6PKX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KAYpFbK6TZ8E6
Thank you everyone for all the love! It’s funny because Reddit actually made me buy SOT in the first place. 😊 These two are under these grow lights for 12 hours a day. The VSOH gets watered around every 10-14 days when the hearts are slightly bendable; SOT every 7 days. They also get MiracleGro diluted to half the recommended concentration on packaging with every other watering.
I personally found VSOH to propagate very well in water; however, you do have to remove lower leaves so that they don’t rot in the water. I also tried soil propagating by pinning down cuttings with bobby pins and planting one node cuttings (butterfly method). They just take longer to root in soil, and it’s tricky to balance wet vs. dry this way, so I prefer water propagation.
For SOT, I laid 2” cuttings on top of soil and kept the whole thing in a closed Ziplock. I blew air into it every once in a while, and took it out when the new growth was 1” long.
I hope this helps everyone!
Ps - I am not selling cuttings of these or making any cuttings to share, for those of you who sent messages. ❤️
Thank you everyone for all the love! It’s funny because Reddit actually made me buy SOT in the first place. 😊 These two are under these grow lights for 12 hours a day. The VSOH gets watered around every 10-14 days when the hearts are slightly bendable; SOT every 7 days. They also get MiracleGro diluted to half the recommended concentration on packaging with every other watering.
I personally found VSOH to propagate very well in water; however, you do have to remove lower leaves so that they don’t rot in the water. I also tried soil propagating by pinning down cuttings with bobby pins and planting one node cuttings (butterfly method). They just take longer to root in soil, and it’s tricky to balance wet vs. dry this way, so I prefer water propagation.
For SOT, I laid 2” cuttings on top of soil and kept the whole thing in a closed Ziplock. I blew air into it every once in a while, and took it out when the new growth was 1” long.
I hope this helps everyone!
Ps - I am not selling cuttings of these or making any cuttings to share, for those of you who sent messages. ❤️
LED plant grow lights, they can come in bulbs like these or in longer fixtures
amazon has these inexpensive grow lights that I have been using for about a year. They work well, I have three now. They can be used in any lamp that has a wide enough opening. Here's the link
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
All plants need light. With a grow light, over 12 hours is preferable. The grow light is LED so it takes minimal electricity.
For one or two plants I would suggest a more direct light source. Like a full spectrum plant light that you can position directly over the plant, maybe a foot above. I like these lamps from Home Depot, combined with these bulbs from Amazon. I grow basil from seeds and this is how I always start the plants after germinating, and the once they are hearty enough I move to direct sunlight either inside or out, but one or two plants should thrive indefinitely if you use this setup.
Thanks! Most people will get the clip on ones that are a purple light, but I hated that color and wanted it to look nice so I went a little overboard. I got this broad spectrum lightbulb for $10. I got mine at target in person but they’re on amazon sometimes too.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_559xEbWS5ZE6E
And this hanging extension cord for $8. It comes with screws to hang from the ceiling and an on/off switch. I think there’s also different lengths and types of this cord. I also wrapped mine in macrame cord so it’s pretty.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078W48D7K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_e99xEbR9TVENY
I would recommend looking into it! My plants and I are so much happier for it! (Sorry for taking a day, I wanted to give you links but knew it would mean looking it up so I procrastinated lol)
My Monstera perked up even more throughout the day today, so I remain hopeful for both of our battered plants!
I'm still figuring out grow lights myself so I don't think I'm the best person to ask for recommendations. I've tried to "research" it on YouTube but the best videos on grow lights don't focus on household/LED use, the videos are definitely more for folks growing pot (which is cool, no hate, but they're talking about different types of lights, different scale production etc.). So I can show you what I bought that's been working but I'm far from an expert.
If you have a spare lamp, you can use this guy, this is what I have right now that I screwed into an old cheapo adjustable-neck desk lamp from Target: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NN6SVG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It is not an attractive setup but my crown of thorns, Euphorbia trigona, Albuca spiralis, and my succulent bowl are all doing well under it. My succulent bowl has calico hearts, an elephant food plant, an Echeveria elegans, a blue barrel cactus, and a goat's horn cactus. So yeah they're all doing pretty well at the moment despite the average temperature in my house dropping 10 degrees over the past 6 weeks.
I just bought this and it arrives tomorrow. There are options that have built-in timers but I already had a couple of Ikea light timers floating around so I'm using those (and I 1000% recommend a timer so you don't even have to think about it--my light turns on before I get up and turns off before I get home from work, shit's mad convenient): https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q8GMRWB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I tried to find a clip-on grow light like that made in USA (or at least not in China) but I wasn't able to find one. (I've been trying to reduce the number of products I buy made in China in support of the protests in HK/in protest of the Uighur imprisonments.. not that anyone will notice though!) Turns out American-made grow lights are out of my price range at the moment, and mainly of such a size they're clearly for commercial operations. When I'm earning more and buy a house in the next couple of years I'd like to treat myself to a couple shop-style lights though. That would be cool
GE is the best! I have so many.
GE Lighting 93101230 9-Watt BR30 LED Grow Light Bulb for Indoor Plants, Full, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sJ3ZDb2NX6ZW5
GE Lighting 93101232 32-Watt PAR38 LED Grow Light for Indoor Plants, Full, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNT3G7J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QK3ZDb65S42K7