Artificial Light Technique

missionrandy · April 22, 2007

Hi,

Just wondering how others started their tomato's and pepper's under artificial light...The technique I have been using for a few years, may be different than most, yet it works extreamely well!

After the seeds germinate on temperature controlled heat mats, I place them in large opaque plastic disposable beer or beverage cups, filled with a light starter mix. Placed under a continuous 24 hr light cycle. The artificial lighting is provided with three 48" or 120 cm dual bulb fluorescent fixtures. Each fixture has one Cool White Bulb and one warm White Bulb, which gives a very good light spectrum for healthy growth.

Many people believe a light cycle needs to be 16/8 or 18/6, though a 24 hour light cycle speeds growth dramatically. Science has proven plant growth is speeded up by a continuous light cycle for vegetative growth, aslong as proper temperature, moisture and nutrient levels are mantained.

People getting a late start with their tomato or pepper plants should use this method to achieve results that wouldn't happen otherwise!

Would like to hear other methods!

Randy
Fraser Valley, BC
Canada
Zone 7b

April 22, 2007	#1
missionrandy Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Fraser Valley, BC, Canada Posts: 272	Artificial Light Technique Hi, Just wondering how others started their tomato's and pepper's under artificial light...The technique I have been using for a few years, may be different than most, yet it works extreamely well! After the seeds germinate on temperature controlled heat mats, I place them in large opaque plastic disposable beer or beverage cups, filled with a light starter mix. Placed under a continuous 24 hr light cycle. The artificial lighting is provided with three 48" or 120 cm dual bulb fluorescent fixtures. Each fixture has one Cool White Bulb and one warm White Bulb, which gives a very good light spectrum for healthy growth. Many people believe a light cycle needs to be 16/8 or 18/6, though a 24 hour light cycle speeds growth dramatically. Science has proven plant growth is speeded up by a continuous light cycle for vegetative growth, aslong as proper temperature, moisture and nutrient levels are mantained. People getting a late start with their tomato or pepper plants should use this method to achieve results that wouldn't happen otherwise! Would like to hear other methods! Randy Fraser Valley, BC Canada Zone 7b __________________ Grow your own! Tomatoes that is...