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The spectrum to produce higher PPF does not necessarily contain the best components of light that allow all plants to flourish , especially cannabis . In other words , not all micromoles are created equal .”
How Else Should Lighting be Measured and Compared ?
Plant biologically active radiation ( PBAR ) also known as yield photon flux ( YPF ), uses the McCree Curve to weight spectrum . It encompasses UVA and the far red ( 700-800 nm ) spectra , making it a better choice for evaluating light sources used for growing plants . There have been numerous studies that plants need some level of UV . Too much , and they can overdose on it , wilt , or even die off . While PBAR , also in micromoles per second , appears to be much better , the fear is that it is being passed over as the measurement by which lighting for plant growth will be measured and compared . Photosynthetic photon flux seems to be the preferred metric . It is anticipated state governments and utilities will likely adopt the PPF recommendation of 1.6 μmol / J as the minimum level of acceptable light for indoor cultivation of plants . No different than a 100 LPW streetlight . In fact , most 100 LPW streetlights will meet the 1.6 μmol / J threshold . That means growers can purchase a dozen LED street lights or parking lot lights , get a rebate , and then try to grow their crop .
So Where Does That Put the Industry if it Goes the Way of PPF ?
No one is absolutely sure how the standards and subsequent regulations will all materialize . There has been much discussion and deliberation on the subject . There are those that believe intensity , spectrum , and uniformity should be considered in this standard . Using just an energy-efficient metric like PPF would not be optimum for plant growth . Just like you wouldn ’ t base your entire car purchase on miles per gallon .
Products that feature intensity , spectrum , and uniformity will likely succeed in the long run , especially in hobby markets where energy efficiency rebates from utilities may not drive the buying decision . Those who choose intensity , spectrum , and uniformity will be giving their plants and themselves the best opportunity to maximize their crop output in terms of quality and quantity . And while PBAR is a much better term to characterize a broader spectrum than PPF , it ’ s not the end of the story for what plants need to grow vibrantly and vigorously . EYE HORTILUX , a division of EYE Lighting International , focuses on designing and manufacturing quality grow lamps , ballasts , and lighting systems that produce supplemental or artificial light for indoor plant growth . EYE HORTILUX grow lamps are used in a wide variety of applications including the home hobbyist , agricultural universities and educational programs , plant physiological research , biotechnology and pharmacology industries , greenhouses , and plant factories .
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