Why Would LED Grow Lights Work Best For Your Garden?

How Do LED Grow Lights Work?

These grow lights work by transmitting rays of light — specifically, they target light in the spectral range of photosynthetically active radiation, sometimes adding UV and IR light to trigger certain plant responses. Different types of plants need light from the warm or cool portion of the color spectrum. With the right temperature, the light will facilitate the process of photosynthesis and increase the rate of growth for all sorts of plants and vegetables.

Warm and Cool on the Color Spectrum — What Is the Difference?

Different lights have different color temperatures, ranging from "warm" light (e.g., red and orange) to "cool" light (e.g., blue and violet). The difference is that certain LED grow light colors are better for specific types of plants or their processes. For instance, cool light tends to promote photosynthesis and growth, while warm light supports flowering or budding. Keep these two things in mind as you're shopping:

• Cool or High-Spectrum Light: Best for foliage, leafy greens and root crops.
• Warm or Low-Spectrum Light: Important for fruiting and flowering plants.

To make it easier, many LED grow lights offer full-spectrum or balanced lighting, allowing growers to adjust it according to their needs.

#1: Efficient

You may have noticed that LED grow lights, especially the large setups and full-spectrum varieties, tend to be a bit pricier than their fluorescent counterparts. As such, your first question might be, "Is it worth it?" For most growers, the answer is, "Absolutely." While the upfront cost may be higher, LED grow lights use less electricity and last notably longer. That's in addition to the other benefits they'll bring to your yield. Also, there isn't just one type of LED grow light, and many options exist to fit within anyone's budget.

#2: Eco-Friendly

Because LED grow lights are energy-efficient, have long lifespans and produce more light per watt, they have a smaller environmental footprint than other types of lighting. Many growers are concerned with being "green," so this often has a big impact on their decision. And, once again, this means that you'll save on energy costs in the long run.

#3: Run Cooler, More Power

LED grow lights don't put out as much heat, which contributes to their energy efficiency. The cooler operating temperature reduces the risk of fire-related accidents. However, this does not diminish their power — despite the lack of heat, the best LED grow lights are capable of more powerful lighting than fluorescent bulbs.

#4: Better for Small Spaces

When it comes to indoor gardens, space is often at a premium. Since LED grow lights are usually more powerful, they can maximize light output per square foot. And since the heat output is lower, you can pack more lights into tight spaces without the risk of overheating.

#5: Versatile

Comparatively, LED grow lights are quite versatile. There are many options when you go to purchase them, depending on size, style and type of light. The good news is that all of them are relatively easy to use. Models that offer full-spectrum lighting are the most versatile since they can be used with all sorts of plants — and at all different phases of growth.

Factors in the Cost of LED Grow Lights

Budgeting is essential to everyone. When you're shopping around, you'll see the following differences in terms of cost.

• Price Range: Low-budget, mid-budget and high-end models exist, with varying features determining their price.
• Standing or Hanging: Larger gardens may need hanging LED grow light fixtures, which tend to cost more, while standing models may be enough for some growers.
• Type of Light: Full-spectrum lighting is likely your best bet, but it may cost a bit more.
• Overall Footprint: If you need to cover a greater area, chances are the prices will go up.

Determining Your Space Requirements

Whether your plants are already set up, or you've simply decided where they'll go, you'll want to figure out the square footage of the area — only where there are plants, not any additional components. To calculate square feet, use measuring tape to get the width and depth, then multiply those two numbers together. Keep this number handy when looking at specifications of any LED grow lights you're considering. It will help you decide how many fixtures to buy or if a standing light will be enough.

Deciding What Style of LED Grow Lights Your Plants Need

Plants differ in the kind of light they require. Do some research on what yours will need, in terms of both wattage and color. As mentioned before, cool/high-spectrum lights are best for foliage, while fruits and flowers need more warm/low-spectrum light. Many models of LED grow lights do offer adjustable wattage and full-spectrum lighting, which is particularly helpful if you plan to grow different things throughout the year.

Finding Additional Products

To get the most out of your LED grow lights, you may also want to consider purchasing some other tools. In particular, grow tents can help your plants reach their full potential.