I got some clones 3 days ago, he likes to cut them just a little short, I want them to grow a good bit bigger before I go to flower. Right now they are under a 1000w hps lite 24hrs, (they are a good distance so no worries) with that 1000w on 24/7 it gets pretty hot, not mention the energy. So my question is would I achieve the same results if I cut the light back to say something like 18/6, that 6hrs off would be a great help. Also, when you count the days of the life of your clones, do you start counting when they are cut? or when they start rooting through the cube? Thanks for any help
You will get the same results, it just takes longer with 18/6 than with 24. The HPS will probably encourage some stretching of the clones. The days of life of a clone is really an immaterial number that doesn't mean much. Clones are sexually mature and can be put into flowering as soon as they have good roots. If you want larger plants, keep then in 24/7 or 18/6 longer. Remembewr, they will continue to grow some after you put them in 12/12.
clones beleive they are as big as the plant they where cut from so that is correct they are ready to flower as soon as they are properly rooted..... you are so lucky i'm so envious i was about to get a real legit mauii clone but the guy got swat raided...=( i envy you so much lol sorry
Also, if wattage consumption is a concern, you could veg with a few CFL's at 10% of the electrical usage. The HPS will do it faster if vertical growth is the concern because they tend to stretch plants out quite a bit, but if you just want more budding sites, swap out and put 'em under a l'il light (unless the HPS has to be on for some other plants, of course).