Under-canopy lighting (UCL) is becoming an important tool for increasing crop yield and quality. However, many growers still misunderstand it and may miss out on its benefits. Today, let’s debunk these myths and help you use this technology more effectively.
Truth: While large-scale growers may see bigger benefits, small-scale and home growers can also gain from UCL.
Whether you grow in tents, vertical farms, or small greenhouses, proper UCL can promote even growth, reduce lower leaf drop, and improve overall yield.
Truth: While top lighting is essential, it often cannot penetrate dense plant canopies. This leaves lower leaves and fruits in the shade, reducing their photosynthesis.
Adding UCL can activate lower leaves, improve light efficiency, and enhance plant health, leading to more uniform fruit development.
Truth: Some growers worry that extra lighting may increase humidity and lead to mold or pest problems.
In reality, proper airflow, well-planned light distribution, and the right light spectrum (such as far-red light) can reduce these risks. Increased light can even prevent some plant diseases.
Truth: Modern LED grow lights use specific wavelengths (like 660nm red and 730nm far-red light) and generate very little heat.
Unlike traditional HID or HPS lights, LEDs provide controlled light intensity, reducing the risk of burning leaves while promoting plant growth.
Truth: UCL is beneficial in all growth stages. During the vegetative stage, it helps plants grow bushier and strengthens lower branches, preparing them for better flowering. In the flowering stage, it ensures even bud development and higher yield quality.
Truth: Research shows that proper UCL can significantly increase yield. Cannabis growers using UCL report over 20% higher yields, along with increased THC and terpene levels. This proves that better light distribution boosts overall crop performance.
Truth: Regular household bulbs and LED strips are not designed for under-canopy lighting. The best UCL should have:
Truth: Many studies confirm that UCL improves plant photosynthesis and yield. Research from institutions like the USDA and universities shows that UCL enhances growth in crops like tomatoes, strawberries, and lettuce. More horticulture experts now recommend using this method.
Truth: Although popular among cannabis growers, UCL benefits many other crops too. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, and leafy greens all thrive with UCL. UCL helps reduce shading and improve production in vertical farms and greenhouses.
Under-canopy lighting is not a gimmick; it is a proven technology. It can increase yields, improve crop quality, optimize growing conditions, and enhance overall efficiency when used correctly. Whether you are a commercial grower or a home gardener, UCL can help you grow better plants.
Desde planejamento de luz personalizado até orçamentos personalizados e tudo mais, nossa equipe de especialistas em horticultura está sempre pronta para ajudar.
Luva LED
Guzhen, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
WhatsApp: +86 180 2409 6862
E-mail: info@vantenled.com
Somos um fabricante profissional de lâmpadas LED para plantas, comprometido em usar tecnologia para aumentar o potencial máximo da lâmpada, maximizando continuamente os benefícios para os produtores e economizando energia para o planeta.