Lighting for starts

[vfem]

Ok, I set up an awesome light system for my starts this year. Total cost "$12"!

But the bulb I had on hand is wrong. Its a natural light tube light, but its only 20 watts and its not cutting it. What kind of bulb and wattage do I need to supply my babies with enough light to grow strong and not leggy?

Thanks!

 

[baymule]

That smiley is soooo right! I am sitting in my recliner drinking my coffee! I use two 4' shop lights, but don't know the wattage or anything. I probably would get better seedlings if I paid attention to it more. So far, it works, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[baymule]

@vfem where is your picture? I'll show you mine....... the squash to the left go outside, but are in for cold weather.

 

[Ridgerunner]

There are some people on here that can tell you exactly how many lumens you need and in what wave spectrum. I’m not one of those. I mainly wanted to say it’s good to see you back on here.


My set-up is similar to Bay’s but I have a lot less seedlings so only one light with two bulbs. I did add white paper along the sides to try to reflect more of the light back to keep them from being quite so spindly. It’s not working great yet but I think that’s because they are so small. I think it will work better when I raise the light and get better reflection. Some light from the side could help them not get so leggy.

 

[vfem]

Here's my light set up the day I got it done, I haven't taken another photo since I got the seeds going and they're sprouted. This was probably 2 weeks ago or so. Nothing impressive I don't start much at home except my special tomatoes, chilis and my cabbage/cauliflower because I hate paying for those starts.

 

[baymule]

@vfem that looks good to me! I am going to have to rethink my seed start ups. As I go more and more to starting seeds, instead that handy 6 or 9 pack from the store, I need more room!

I am trying to break away from the "convenience packs" and whatever variety some one else has decided one-size-fits-all. I am trying different varieties to find those perfect fits for me and my growing area. What fun!!

 

[Lavender2]

.. I use 40 watt cool white bulbs, as close to the plants as possible, 16 hours a day. Has worked great for me for many years.
You could try a foil shade to reflect more light down.

 

[vfem]

I lowered the light more then what it shows there, but already my cabbage is leggy and touching the light that is only like 1-1.5" about the starts? That's what I was trying to keep from happening. I was hoping that huge mirror would be of some help. lol

You're set up looks fine to me, and the starts look my tougher then mine already.

 

[baymule]

My name is Baymule and I am a TEG'er. I just went to Lowes and got another shop light. There are now 3 lights covering my breakfast table.......need more potting soil and more plants.....

 

[dickiebird]

I use 4' 40 watt plant/aquarium florescence lights.
Had this setup for a few years and it works for me.

THANX RICH