Lights Used in Orchid Culture

[Ferrick]

Hi there. I'm preparing to flask my own phalaenopsis seeds soon, orchid media is on its way.

I worked in an organic chemistry laboratory for almost 5 years, so I'm definitely familiar with GLP - good laboratory practice, aseptic technique, etc.

I'm using -- Commercial Propagation of Orchids in Tissue Culture: Seed-Flasking Methods as a guide to use. -- I like the ultra scientific technical stuff -- however, notsa sure about:

fluorescent grow lights to use. What wattage, what type of bulb? I know these little things need controlled temperature, which means inside.

Can anyone help?

Thanks.

[Ben Belton]

I germinate my seed, make spreads, and grow out final flasks all under double tube shop lights. You don't even need that much for the first 2 parts. Seed will germinate and grow to protocorms under almost no light. I buy the T-8 bulbs from Lowes that I believe are 5500K. My flasks and my hood are in my basement where it is not aseptic, but I have almost no trouble with contamination. The temperature stays fairly constant. It is only a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter.

Hope that helps. I do Phals too.