let there be light reflection
Diffusion
Diffusion of light in horticultural applications refers to
the way light energy is distributed over an area. The goal
should be to create the most even light diffusion possible.
This will create uniform growth within the garden. Light
reflectors that use reflective materials designed to enhance
light diffusion will produce more uniform growth and
generate less hot spots.
Reflective materials that have built-in textures, like dimples (pebbletone aluminum), are designed to better distribute the light under the reflector. These materials cause
the light to reflect in more than one direction, creating a
more even distribution of light. Reflectors that produce
better light diffusion are a great tool to help maximize
lighting efficiency when using higher-wattage HID lights.
Some types of horticultural lighting, like tube fluorescents, are naturally better at light diffusion than HID
fixtures. This is because tube fluorescents emit an even
amount of light throughout the entire length of the
bulb instead of all the light emitting from one
singular focal point. What results is an even light
output directly under the fixture. This is one of
the main reasons fluorescents are so popular for
vegetative growth—they allow the grower to keep
uniform growth throughout the entire garden without the need to rotate plants.
mimic
“Within our indoor gardens, we do
everything we can to
and tweak variables
to gain the highest yields possible.”
nature
Within our indoor gardens, we do everything we can to mimic
nature and tweak variables to gain the highest yields possible.
In nature, reflective materials are not necessary because of the
great distance between the sun and the Earth. In an indoor
garden, however, reflecting light is one of the most important
things a grower can do to get the most out of the available
light energy. The use of a light reflector with an HID lighting
system can increase the lighting’s efficiency by up to 50%.
With energy rates continuing to rise, it is of the utmost importance to get the most out of every dollar spent on electricity.
A better understanding of light reflection, cross-patterns and
diffusion could be the difference between a vibrant, successful
garden and slow, spindly growth along with the frustration of
wasted, costly electricity. All of the most successful indoor horticulturists have one thing in common: they understand the
effects of the inverse square law and the importance of using
light energy to its maximum potential.
140
Maximum Yield USA | January 2015