Greenhouse – Lighting Systems

Q: My parents recently purchased a small hobby greenhouse. I want to purchase some sort of supplemental lighting system for them. Do you have any recommendations?

A: The lighting system is a good idea. They can easily start seeds in the greenhouse and save money. Buy or build a 48″ fixture that holds four T8 fluorescent bulbs. The T8 bulbs are more efficient and brighter that the common T12 fluorescent bulbs. Look for those having a Kelvin rating of 3000 – 5000, which provides light in both the red and blue spectrum. The bulbs can be hung as close as 6″ from plants without burning the leaves.