I have been 'playing' with grow lights for years . . . The biggest drawback is always the cost of the bulbs or lighting system, and the cost of using them ! Because of a limited income, it is vital that I economize the best way possible. Since most of the simple light bulbs or set ups are in the $75- $200 range, it is just not feasable for me. So I started checking into LED Grow lights, and found you can buy a nice sized set-up [22"x10"] for under $40 ! THAT I can swing ! And the cost of using LED grow light is comparable to running a 30 watt light bulb. The Incandescent and fluorescent grow light compare to 100+ watt bulbs. So I save on the initial cost, and the power it takes to use them.
Because I miss fresh salads in the winter more than anything, not to mention the 'recall' on lettuce so often, this might be the best solution. I am currently experimenting with growing lettuce ( 4 varieties ) and spinach. growing it all in recycled eves troughs ( your suggestion for limited space container gardening ). I SHOULD be able to grow these greens, through to full maturity. Fertilizing is not a problem, since I have 'adapted' your 'weed fertilizer tea' to kitchen parings.
The one thing you did not mention when growing indoors, is that air really needs to circulate WELL to 'strengthen' the plants. Outdoors our gardens get a constant buffeting by breezes and even strong winds. I suggest turning a gentle fan on your seedlings and plants for a few hours every day to make them 'stronger'.
I continue to experiment . . . It sure would be nice to grow a natural garden indoors all winter long, inexpensively !
THANK YOU for ALL that you do, in providing information. The Old Farmers Almanac ROCKS !
Deeda : }
I have been 'playing' with grow lights for years . . . The biggest drawback is always the cost of the bulbs or lighting system, and the cost of using them ! Because of a limited income, it is vital that I economize the best way possible. Since most of the simple light bulbs or set ups are in the $75- $200 range, it is just not feasable for me. So I started checking into LED Grow lights, and found you can buy a nice sized set-up [22"x10"] for under $40 ! THAT I can swing ! And the cost of using LED grow light is comparable to running a 30 watt light bulb. The Incandescent and fluorescent grow light compare to 100+ watt bulbs. So I save on the initial cost, and the power it takes to use them.
Because I miss fresh salads in the winter more than anything, not to mention the 'recall' on lettuce so often, this might be the best solution. I am currently experimenting with growing lettuce ( 4 varieties ) and spinach. growing it all in recycled eves troughs ( your suggestion for limited space container gardening ). I SHOULD be able to grow these greens, through to full maturity. Fertilizing is not a problem, since I have 'adapted' your 'weed fertilizer tea' to kitchen parings.
The one thing you did not mention when growing indoors, is that air really needs to circulate WELL to 'strengthen' the plants. Outdoors our gardens get a constant buffeting by breezes and even strong winds. I suggest turning a gentle fan on your seedlings and plants for a few hours every day to make them 'stronger'.
I continue to experiment . . . It sure would be nice to grow a natural garden indoors all winter long, inexpensively !
THANK YOU for ALL that you do, in providing information. The Old Farmers Almanac ROCKS !
Deeda : }