In today’s world of horticulture, one no longer needs to rely on traditional methods such as large-scale landscaping, waiting for the right season, and searching for prime land; rather, gardening can be done quickly and efficiently with modern tools and techniques. Now you can cultivate your own fresh vegetables and flowers even in limited spaces (indoors or outdoors), with artificial lighting and minimal labor assistance.

Growing plants indoors brings a variety of benefits, such as avoiding harsh weather conditions and ensuring that plants are grown in the most optimal conditions. One of the major factors for successful indoor growing is light. When it comes to growing microgreens, finding the right grow light is essential. In this article, we will discuss the best microgreen grow lights available on the market and what to look for before making a purchase.

Importance of Grow Lights for indoor growers:

Lights are essential for indoor growers as they provide a way to replicate the conditions in which plants naturally grow and thrive. With the use of grow lights, plants can receive the spectrum of light needed for photosynthesis, along with an appropriate temperature and humidity level. They also allow for much greater control in terms of intensity and duration of light exposure, which can help ensure optimal growth and flowering periods. Additionally, grow lights make it possible to cultivate plants at any time of year, regardless of season or weather conditions outside. By using grow lights, indoor gardeners can have access to year-round crop production without having to worry about external factors such as sunlight or climate changes. This makes them invaluable tools for anyone looking to start or continue their indoor gardening journey.

How much light do microgreens need?

Microgreens, which are the young seedlings of edible plants, require light for photosynthesis to grow and thrive. The amount and type of light needed will depend on the type of microgreen being grown. Generally, microgreens require 6-12 hours of light per day and need to be kept away from direct sunlight. It is important to ensure that microgreens receive the proper amount of light as too little or too much light can stunt their growth. If a grow light system is used, the length of time and intensity of the light can be adjusted to meet the needs of the microgreens at each stage of growth.

Types of Grow Lights:

Grow lights come in a range of sizes, styles, and types, making them suitable for any space or budget. The most common types of lights are LED, fluorescent, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lights. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option and they tend to be the most popular choice among indoor gardeners. They are also the most customizable, as they come in a variety of colors and intensities. Fluorescent lights are less expensive than LED lights and they produce a more natural light, making them ideal for seedlings and clones. High-intensity discharge (HID) lights are the most powerful option and they are great for providing intense light for larger plants. They are, however, the most expensive and require more ventilation.

Regardless of the type of light used, it is important to ensure that the light is appropriate for the plants being grown. The intensity and duration of the light must be tailored to the specific needs of the plants to ensure optimal growth and flowering periods. Additionally, the temperature and humidity levels must be monitored carefully to ensure they are suitable for the plants being grown. With the right grow light setup, any indoor gardener can successfully cultivate healthy, vibrant microgreens.

Can Shop Lights be Used as Grow Lights? yes but

Yes, shop lights can be used as grow lights. They are a great option if you’re looking for an affordable way to light your plants. Shop lights come in both fluorescent and LED varieties, which provide different levels of illumination. Fluorescent lights are a good choice if you’re looking for bright, full-spectrum lighting that’s easy to install and energy efficient. LED shop lights offer more intense light with less energy consumption but may not be the right choice for all plants. Both types of shop lights can also be set up to switch on and off automatically, making them even more convenient for indoor gardening. However, it’s important to remember that shop lights are not designed specifically for growing and may not provide the optimal lighting required for some plant species. It’s best to research the specific needs of your plants before investing in any kind of grow light solution.

Are Grow Light substitutes for Sunlight?

Grow lights are a popular alternative to natural sunlight for growing microgreens indoors. Grow lights provide the necessary intensity and spectrum of light that enables microgreen plants to photosynthesize, allowing them to grow in conditions where natural sunlight is not available. Although sunlight is the only free light that a plant can use, grow lights provide the same benefits as sunlight in terms of growth and flowering. Additionally, these lights can be used to cultivate plants at any time of year, regardless of weather conditions outside. This makes them an ideal option for those who want to start or continue their indoor gardening journey.

Are Grow Lights Necessary for Microgreen Gardening?

Grow lights are becoming increasingly popular for microgreen gardening, as they are an effective way to achieve good growth, even in low-light conditions. Grow lights provide a consistent light source, allowing microgreens to be grown year-round. They also provide the right spectrum of light that is necessary for photosynthesis and healthy growth. Therefore, while not necessary, grow lights can be beneficial in ensuring your microgreens thrive and have the best yield.

 Qualities of a good grow light for Microgreens: blue light, red light

When it comes to choosing a light for microgreens, there are a few key qualities that should be considered. The first is the type of light; LED lights are generally recommended as they are energy efficient and emit less heat. Additionally, the intensity of the light should be considered; this should be adjusted depending on the plant’s needs. Finally, the color spectrum is also important as different plants require different spectrums of light to grow properly and efficiently. A good grow light for microgreens should have a combination of blue and red light. Blue light is important for promoting the overall health of plants, while red light helps to increase photosynthesis and promote flowering. When shopping for a microgreen grow light, make sure to look for one that has all of these features.

What kind of Grow Light is suitable for Microgreens and why?

LED grow lights are the best choice for microgreens, as they are the most energy-efficient and customizable option. LED lights are available in a variety of colors and intensities, allowing growers to tailor the light spectrum to the specific needs of their microgreens. Additionally, LED lights produce very little heat, making them ideal for growing in smaller spaces or enclosed environments. The precise control of the light intensity, duration, and spectrum makes LED lights the perfect choice for microgreens. The downside of LED grows lights is that they typically cost more than other types of grow lights.

Some Basic Terms About Grow Lights:

Before discovering the best grow lights for microgreens, it is important to understand some basic terms related to lights, which are elaborated on below:

1: Lumens: Unit of measurement for the total amount of light emitted by a source.

2: Kelvin Temperature: Color temperature of light, measured in degrees Kelvin.

3: Photosynthesis: Process by which plants use light energy to create food from water and carbon dioxide.

4: Spectral Distribution: The range of colors in light, typically measured in nanometers (nm).

5: PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation): Measurement of the intensity of light that is available for photosynthesis.

6: PPF (Photosynthetic Photon Flux): Measurement of the number of photons per second that are released from a grow light.

7: LED (Light Emitting Diode): A type of semiconductor device that emits light.

8: MH (Metal Halide): A light that uses a metal halide bulb.

9: HID (High-Intensity Discharge): A light that uses an HID lamp.

10: Lumenpowered Grain Light: Alternative name for LED lights.

11: T5, T8, or T12 Lights: These terms refer to the number of bulbs that are used in light.

12: Nm: Nanometer is a unit of measure for the spectral distribution of light.

5 Best Microgreen Grow Lights:

There are different lights available on the market, but here we will discuss a few of the best models for growing microgreens. These artificial lights are specifically designed to assist you in growing your microgreens indoors or in areas with limited sunlight, or during months with shorter hours of daylight.

01: Barrina T5 Grow Light:

The Barrina T5 Light is a very high-quality and affordable option for growing microgreens indoors. It produces full-spectrum sunlight replacement for indoor plants, with 95% of light energy being absorbed. The main feature of this light is energy consumption which is only 80W and replaces 500W general plant lamps, making it a great option for plants in different growth stages.

Installation of the LED light strips is easy and quick with included accessories, and up to 16 lights can be linked together. Each light can be separately or collectively controlled depending on the light requirement for your microgreens. Additionally, the lights are waterproof, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The lights also feature a strong and durable aluminum shell that is designed to last for years.

Key Features and Specs: 

• Light Type: LED 
• Number of LEDs: 400 
• Wattage: 80 watts
• Color: Pinkish White
• Warranty: Two years 

Pros:

• Easy to Install

• Intense and bright light for maximum growth

• Adjustable height and angle for easy customization

• Durable aluminum shell for longevity

• Affordable option for microgreen growers

Cons:

• Lights may be too bright for some microgreens

• Lights may be prone to electrical shocks.

02: GE LED Grow Light BR30:

This LED bulb offers a unique light spectrum specifically engineered to improve microgreen growth indoors. Its low power consumption of 9 watts, combined with its high output PPF (16 micromoles per second), makes it an efficient light source for this type of cultivation. Installation is quick and easy with the included accessories, and up to 16 lights may be linked together for custom settings.

This lighting solution is the most cost-effective option for growing microgreens indoors, and its lightweight design allows for easy mobility within the cultivation area.

Key Features and Specs:

• Light Type: LED Bulb
• Wattage: 9 watts
• Light Color: White
• Warranty: Limited

Pros:

– Produces full-spectrum light similar to natural sunlight

– Energy-efficient, consuming only 9W of power

– Adjustable angle and height for easy customization

– Low-heat, low-energy design

Cons:

– Not suitable for large indoor plantings

– Life expectancy is not as long as some of the other options.

 03: Monios-L T8 LED Light:

The Monios-L T8 LED Grow Light is one of the best lights for gardeners looking for a high-output grow light to support their indoor plants. This 6-pack set provides full spectrum sunlight replacement with reflectors, which makes it suitable for larger microgreen gardens and all stages of microgreen cultivation.

The Monios-L T8 LED Grow Light with aluminum housing offers efficient heat dissipation for a longer lifespan of the LED chips. The 24W double-row chips emit a warm, 2900K color temperature and have a low light decay. Users can connect up to 6 lights together either with seamless connectors or connector cables, making them ideal for greenhouses and other applications. Additionally, these products come with a 24-month unlimited warranty.

Key Features and Specs: 

• Light Type: LED 
• Number of Light Sources: 6
• Wattage: 24 watts
• Color: Warm Light
• Warranty: Two years 

Pros:

– High output for large microgreen gardens

– Full spectrum replacement for natural sunlight

– Aluminum housing offers efficient heat dissipation

– Low light decay with 24W double-row chips

Cons:

– Lights are likely to generate heat.

– Expensive. May not be a suitable option for everyone.

04: VIVOSUN T5 Grow Lights:

The VIVOSUN T5 is another one of the best lights available in the market for microgreens. With a 2 ft. frame and four 24W T5 light bulbs, this light fixture provides bright and high-output lighting for your plants. The 6500K HO fluorescent tubes emit a cool, blue-light perfect for microgreens to grow and develop. The VIVOSUN T5 Grow Lights also come with an 8 ft. power cord, two hanging cables, and two steel hooks for easy installation and adjustment.

VIVOSUN T5 florescent tubes offer up to 8000 Lumens of lighting per 4 tubes, making it an ideal high output (HO) light source. It also comes with a unique feature – dual switches for custom control. The low-profile housing, made with high-reflectivity aluminum, provides efficient illumination with 95-97% reflectivity as well as a wider coverage. All the bulbs are rated for a lifespan of 20,000 hours of use and the product itself is backed by a 1-year warranty for bulbs and 2 years for the fixture.

Key Features and Specs: 

• Light Type: Fluorescent 
• Number of Light Sources: 4 Tubes
• Wattage: 24 watts
• Light Color: White
• Warranty: 1 year 

Pros:

– Bright and high-output lighting for indoor plants

– 6500K HO fluorescent tubes emit a cool, blue-light

– 8 ft. power cord, two hanging cables, and two steel hooks for easy installation and adjustment

– UL listed for safety

– Affordable

Cons:

– Not as bright as LED lights

– Tubes may need to be replaced periodically

05: MARS HYDRO TS600 LED Grow Light:

The MARS HYDRO TS600 100Watt LED Grow Light is a perfect choice for those looking for a powerful yet energy-efficient grow light for their indoor plants. This light features a new diode arrangement which promises broader illumination and a higher Photosynthetic Active Radiation (PAR) value than other similar models. The light also comes with a double-switch design, allowing users to customize the light intensity and spectrum for different stages of growth. Moreover, it has an aluminum housing with efficient heat dissipation, which helps to extend its lifespan.

The MARS HYDRO TS 600 LED grow light is an efficient and reliable way to cultivate plants, offering 60 watts of power and a specialized design to redirect light intensity up to 120 degrees with an even distribution of diodes. It boasts an energy-saving capacity of up to 50% compared to HPS/MH lights, allowing for higher returns on investment. Additionally, its fanless design eliminates the risk of burning plants due to excessive heat. With this product, growers can expect improved plant growth and productivity for maximum yields.

Key Features and Specs: 

• Light Type: LED
• Number of Light Sources: 225 Diodes
• Wattage: 100 watts
• Light Color: White
• Warranty: No

Pros:

– Powerful yet energy-efficient

– Full spectrum sunlight replacement

– New diodes layout for up to 2x2ft coverage

– Double switch design for custom control

– Aluminum housing for efficient heat dissipation

Cons:

– Gets hot, so be careful when handling

– High energy consumption

Buying Guide for Grow Light for Microgreens:

When it comes to choosing the best light for microgreens, there are many factors to consider. The type of light you choose will depend on the type of microgreens you are growing, the size of your growing area, and your budget. You should also consider the spectrum of light and intensity of light needed for optimal growth. In addition, you need to decide whether to buy a single unit or multiple units for larger growing areas. Finally, you should look for lights that are energy efficient and easy to install and maintain. With the right information and research, you can find the best grow light for microgreens to help your plants reach their full potential.

Conclusion:

When choosing the best light for microgreens, it is important to consider your growing needs, budget, and specific growing type. By doing your research, you can select a light that is perfect for your needs and grow microgreens in optimal conditions. In the above list, we have recommended some of the best lights for growing microgreens that are available on the market today based on their features, performance, and ease of use. Before purchasing any grow light for your microgreens, it is important to have a complete understanding of the type of microgreen you want to grow and the specific requirements it needs in terms of light. Not all grow lights are suitable for all types of microgreens, so it is essential to do your research and choose the most suitable option.