Since they can be easily grown with the absence of soil, hydroponic plants still need two other activities to survive - water and light. Thanks to the developments in agricultural technology, plants no longer need to be placed in areas that receive adequate sunlight. Growers and hobbyists either can choose from LED (light emitting diode) grow lights, HPS (questionable sodium lights, or MH (metal halide) lights. Although there are other lighting alternatives on the market, these three would be the most popular among hydroponic gardeners.

Some of the History of Hydroponics

Contrary to popular belief, hydroponics' origins have been very old. Before the term being coined, ancient cultures have previously practiced a rough version on this growing technique. It's even declared the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are actually, one of the oldest known hydroponic gardens.

Hydroponic technology however, only took off in the 19th century, after researchers found out that plants absorbed mineral nutrients as inorganic ions in water, which essentially meant that they did not need any soil at all.

plant grow lights

Light Still Important

While hydroponic gardening provides growers and hobbyists a chance to grow plants, fruits and vegetables inside the comforts with their homes and devoid of the mess that comes with soil, lights are still very necessary. For photosynthesis to occur, plants need all the light they can get. Hydroponic lights become an alternative to sunlight, and in addition allow hydroponic gardens to be placed virtually anywhere at home. As mentioned earlier, you have a variety of choices when it comes to hydroponic lights, each one with its share of benefits and drawbacks. Each light is geared towards gardeners with different needs, so it's best to determine your lighting requirements before making any choices.

Which Light is perfect for you?

From the 3 main hydroponic lights, which is the right one for you? Metal halide lamps are miniaturized versions of the streetlights littered along streets and freeways. Despite their small size, they include a lot of power without eating the electric bill. Unfortunately, you may have to spend more on the special fixtures required these lights.

Underhand sodium lights are created for mature plants that are at the flowering stage. Despite using little energy, HPS lighting is very powerful-they also go far. However, because HPS lights produce higher lumens, additionally, they generate more heat. Expect you'll install fans and hoods for cooling down your garden.

LED lights are prized for their power-saving qualities. These bulbs eat the least electricity, and create little, to no heat in any respect. For plants that require warm environments, LEDs are not recommended. If you would rather go the LED way, expect to cough out cash to put in more lights.

hydroponic grow lights