Lighting β FAQ
What wattage grow light do I need for indoor herbs?
Most culinary herbs thrive under 15-25 watts of quality LED light per square foot of growing area. A 20W full-spectrum panel effectively covers a 12x12 inch herb garden on a kitchen counter. Start with lower wattage for shade-tolerant herbs like parsley, increase to 30W+ for sun-loving basil and rosemary.
How far should grow lights be from plant leaves?
Position LED grow lights 6-12 inches above seedlings and 12-24 inches over mature plants, depending on wattage. Lower-wattage lights (under 20W) can sit closer without burning leaves, while high-power panels (100W+) need 18+ inches of clearance. Monitor for leaf bleaching or curling and adjust accordingly.
Do I need a timer for my grow lights?
Yes, consistent light cycles are critical for plant health and flowering control. Most vegetables and herbs require 12-16 hours of light daily, which manual switching rarely achieves. Built-in timers with cycle memory prevent schedule disruption during power outages.
What's the difference between full spectrum and blurple lights?
Full-spectrum LEDs produce white light containing all wavelengths plants use, plus they let you see natural leaf color. Blurple lights use only narrow blue and red bands, which appear purple and distort plant appearance while potentially missing beneficial UV/IR wavelengths. Full spectrum is superior for home growers.
Can regular LED bulbs work as grow lights?
Standard LED bulbs lack the specific blue and red wavelengths plants need for robust photosynthesis, resulting in leggy, pale growth. While they provide some light, growth rates are 40-60% slower than with true full-spectrum grow lights. Dedicated grow lights deliver targeted PAR that household bulbs cannot.
Are LED grow lights safe to leave on overnight?
Quality LED grow lights with UL certification are designed for 24/7 operation and remain safe overnight. Low-voltage 5V models like the yadoker eliminate fire risk entirely. Always ensure adequate airflow around fixtures and avoid covering lights with flammable materials.
