Need help with changing light on chids.

[DelawareJim]

If distance from the light is a problem, you could also gradually lengthen the time the lights are on. Start out with them on a couple of hours and each week add a half hour or an hour until you reach the daylength you want.

Cheers.
Jim

[justjill3]

Originally Posted by Ray

Calvin is right - distance is the key.

The reason one moves plants gradually into higher light levels is to prevent burning, but that's usually in reference to the sun. I could be wrong about this, but it seems to me that at 2-3 feet, even those HO T5's won't be bright enough to burn the plants.

I would also recommend replacing the bulbs annually. Five-year-old fluorescents at three feet distance are, as you noted, worthless.

So, are you saying to just put the plants on the stand, being sure that they are no more than 2-3 feet closer to the light? Then move them closer by the week until they are where they need to be?

[justjill3]

Originally Posted by DelawareJim

If distance from the light is a problem, you could also gradually lengthen the time the lights are on. Start out with them on a couple of hours and each week add a half hour or an hour until you reach the daylength you want.

Cheers.
Jim

Is the amount of time a plant receives light related to whether or not the plant burns? If the concern is (as Ray explained earlier) burning, then I would think that time is not so much a factor as distance would be. I'm thinking a hot source will burn if the distance is too close.

[justjill3]

Originally Posted by calvin_orchidL

Where are you getting your T5s from? I use compact fluorescents and I find them cheaper and versatile, but I am definitely attracted to the high light output of those T5s!

I found a local hydroponic store. They sell almost evey kind of light I think a grower would consider, plus super fans, various monitoring devices, etc. I got my fixtures and lights from them.

HOWEVER, the clientel was SO SPECIAL!

Fortunately, they have another location which had a much broader selection and a guy that works there is well known for his work with chids.

Another option for your lights is the internet. Both Ray and Ross have suggested that method. I just wanted to see the equipment in person before I invested. I hope that helped.

[justjill3]

Originally Posted by AHAB

I have a bunch of Icecap vho ballasts (prior use was for reef tanks) I would like to use them for my orchids but I am not sure on the brand or spectrum of bulbs to buy any suggetions?
Thanks,
AHAB

I used the aquarium covers that had a light incorporated into the lid. I never investigated the ballasts, so I can't help. I'm sure someone in the forum can, though. Many own tanks, as well. Ask around.