A great use of grow lights is to start seeds indoors. By mimicking spring lighting conditions you are extending the growing (or sprouting) season and kick-starting your garden. Many gardeners have had success with growing vegetable, herbs and flowering plant seedlings under grow lights. And it doesn’t have to be expensive. If you are tempted to start your own grow light seedling garden then read on.
Plant grow lights fall into three main categories.
First there are the standard fluorescent grow lights which are relatively inexpensive to purchase and to run. They do not emit light with as much intensity as HID grow lights, the second main type of grow light on the market, but are adequate for small gardens and for seedlings. The third type of grow light are LED grow lights which are specially designed to emit light at precisely the wavelengths of light most useful to plants as they photosynthesize.
Once you have decided on your grow light, it’s time to set up your seeding containers. You can use most household containers, just make sure they have drainage holes. Add a layer of potting mix, then the seeds and then finish with a light covering of soil. At this stage it is a good idea to label the containers if you are growing more than one plant variety.
Keep the soil moist at all times. Many gardeners use a plastic wrap or coating over the container and place these in a tray with some water in it. At this stage set the grow lights. If you are using fluorescent grow lights, hang these around 4-6 inches from the top of the container. HID lights will need to be placed further away to reduce the risk of dehydration and scorching.
As soon as the seeds begin to sprout, remove the plastic cover. The grow lights needs to be on a timer alternating between 12-14 hours of day light and 10-12 hours of darkness. Once the seedlings are large enough, or the container becomes too crowded, transplant into a more permanent location.