T5 light, not getting the distance right.

Lorri D · March 9, 2012

I have a T5 SUN BLAZE, 4ft, 4 bulb light w/ 6500k. This is the first time I am using a T5 system.
I bought this light to grow tomato seedlings, but I am growing broccoli and chard seedlings
right now.

From what I have read, I should put my plants 2 inches from the light. But, this is proving to be
too close. My seedlings are drying out and I think they might have even gotten burned a little.
But, I don't want leggy seedlings either.

If you have experience with this type of light, please advise what distance you put between
the bottom of the light and the top of the seedlings.

I and my plants will really appreciate your help : )

Keiththibodeaux · March 10, 2012

What about air circulation? I have read that these can get pretty hot under the bulbs without some air movement.

Elizabeth · March 19, 2012

I had the same trouble with burning when I moved to T-5s because I had always followed the 2" rule with my old grow lights. Now I go about 4-6" above the plants, plus I have a little 5" desk fan that I have plugged into my timer - it runs while the lights are on. Before the seeds come up I put the light 2-3" away from the soil surface - it warms the soil quite nicely.

March 9, 2012	#1
Lorri D Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: NorthWest Posts: 267	T5 light, not getting the distance right. I have a T5 SUN BLAZE, 4ft, 4 bulb light w/ 6500k. This is the first time I am using a T5 system. I bought this light to grow tomato seedlings, but I am growing broccoli and chard seedlings right now. From what I have read, I should put my plants 2 inches from the light. But, this is proving to be too close. My seedlings are drying out and I think they might have even gotten burned a little. But, I don't want leggy seedlings either. If you have experience with this type of light, please advise what distance you put between the bottom of the light and the top of the seedlings. I and my plants will really appreciate your help : )

March 19, 2012	#3
Elizabeth Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: San Diego Coastal - Zone 10b Posts: 204	I had the same trouble with burning when I moved to T-5s because I had always followed the 2" rule with my old grow lights. Now I go about 4-6" above the plants, plus I have a little 5" desk fan that I have plugged into my timer - it runs while the lights are on. Before the seeds come up I put the light 2-3" away from the soil surface - it warms the soil quite nicely. __________________ Elizabeth If I'm going to water and care for a plant it had better give me food, flowers or shade.

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March 10, 2012	#2
Keiththibodeaux Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Louisiana Posts: 587	What about air circulation? I have read that these can get pretty hot under the bulbs without some air movement.