Need to increase FC in grow stn - Orchid Board

ladyslipper · #1 (**permalink**) 10-11-2008, 08:03 PM

Hi guys I am pretty sure I need to bump up my lights for more footcandles. Right now I have 2 48 in. T5' & 2 48 in. full spectrum lights. Do you know if I can by stronger lights or do I need to put in more tubes? Would hanging a mylar sheet behind the stand help? I have pretty much changed from phals to Paphs & Phrags. I know I don't register high at all when I put my light measure under the lights. Its also possible I can't read the darn meter. Its really confusing. I have a new one on the way. Hopefully my lighting isn't all that bad.

regards. m

ericst11 · #2 (**permalink**) 10-12-2008, 12:03 AM

If your orchids are growing at a good rate i wouldn't worry about it but if you have the space i'd move up to a HID . they put out more light and more foots per candle and the heat those t5 's put out you might as well step it up to a 400 watt sodium or halide. you'd see a world of difference in your growth and blooms.