Last Ditch

I resisted grow lights for a long time. My simple reasoning was that on a small scale, it wouldn’t really make a difference. I have an east facing living room that provides plenty of afternoon light and getting a grow light would just be overkill. But as an over eager seed starter who is predisposed to starting seeds in January, the weak Pacific Northwest winter sun was just barely cutting it. To keep my seedlings going, I finally caved this year and ordered a cheap grow light online for $20. Doing exactly zero research, I received and set up my first ever grow light in less than a week from ordering.

The results are pretty conclusive: even if you don’t really know what you’re doing, a grow light helps. However, in hindsight, I have a few reflections to maximize the benefits of grow lights:

1. Get a grow light with a timer: plants need a rest cycle and a timer helps acheive this and also saves having to remember when to turn it on

2. Keep plants 1 foot away from the grow light. Having the light placed further away diminishes the impact it will have as most grow lights aren’t that powerful

3. Supplement with the sun: all plants will benefit from having some sun, don’t rely solely on the grow light. There are grow lights available that can be used in near dark conditions but they are large and expensive. If you plan on planting seedlings out, they should receive some natural sunlight

Happy growing!