Let’s start with a question that no longer needs to be answered, but we will address anyway:

Should you use LED or fluorescent lights?

In short, LED technology has come so far that fluorescent lights are likely on their way out altogether. LEDs are considered much superior to fluorescents for a few reasons:

1. They use much less energy than fluorescents.
2. They emit much less heat than fluorescents (and other lighting types like metal halide or high-pressure sodium), making it easier to control growing space temperature.
3. They are more customizable in terms of light spectrum and some even have adjustable spectrum settings.
4. They are typically more compact than fluorescent system.
5. Many are designed for use in high-humidity and high-moisture environments
6. The price is coming down to be comparable to fluorescents.

Ever wonder why it took LED lights so long to get to market?

Check out this interesting piece on the invention of blue LEDs: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18tdDgozgP/

Here are some things to take into consideration when choosing lights for your system:

Light Spectra

Choosing lights with the appropriate light spectrum distribution should be your number one priority as this cannot be changed.

PPFD Output and Efficiency

You need to choose a light that has sufficient PPFD output and can do so efficiently. As we discussed above, lights can be more or less efficient in giving you the PPFD output you need -sometimes significantly so. Choosing the most efficient lights to meet your PPFD needs will ensure you keep your electricity costs to a minimum.

Water Resistance

Many consumers LED brands are not sufficiently waterproof for microgreens production – even though they are popular choices. Look for brands that offer an IP (Ingress Protection) rating of 65 or more.

Brand Reliability

Product reviews are useful for assessing brand quality, so do your research carefully. There are some popular brands on the market, but it does not mean they are the best brands – it might just mean they have done good marketing or have a strong presence on Amazon – and are further promoted by other microgreens growers who receive affiliate payments.

Size

Four-foot lights don’t always fit on a four-foot shelf! Cable inputs in some fixtures can make it difficult to get the exact light placement you need with your desired shelf spacing – like the fixture on the right.

Make sure to test your light fixtures in your actual growing space OR take one of your shelves with you when going to look at lights from a retailer!

Price

Quality, spectra, and efficiency are important factors in choosing the bets light, but sometimes it does come down to price. If you are on a budget, make spectrum distribution your priority at your price point.

Linkability

Most strip LED grow lights are linkable with others so you can create lighting zones and reduce the number of cables you need to power your set up.