Whats up everyone. IM Back! LEDs where really just getting mainstream when I was growing. They were expensive and the results were subpar for high quality. I'm going with a 4x4 bloom area. 2x2, 2x2 veg and a small spot for clones. Temp and electric bill is the reason to make the switch. I was getting 1.5/w on a 400w hps for bloom and i believe around 240w cfl to veg. Mainline, top, scrog. I see Mars is still around. how bout the ebay leds, crap? I do photos so I can train them and as I keep it so I'm harvesting every 3 weeks once things are up and running. It looks like all LEDs are full spectrum. Thinking 1000w for the bloom tent of the full spectrum LEDS and CFLs for the veg still? Thanks in advance so stoked to be back!!
says you're new on your avatar... welcome back. QB96s were great. Can't get em anymore... yup they are good. depends which light of course. I would never. try some autos too! as far as lighting, so many choices. Horticulture Lighting Group is American kinda pricey. Personally, I've recommended strips for a long time as it spreads the light out nicely. It's all about the diode, and so, lm301H atm. I recommend looking at Chinese KingBrite Electronics as they have been keeping up with the technology and I like their light kits. We all have our preferences. I've got lots of lights, from different manufacturers, most use Samsung diodes, and they all work well.
Thanks man! Yeah I tried to reset my password with my old user name and cant remember what email it was tied too.. oh well fresh start. Hows it work with the spectrum and leds? Is the new tech as good as HPS? I've been slacking on getting back at it in the middle of remodeling my house but time is ticking... So jumping in. forgive me ive forgotten so much.. Is 2700 is flowering right lol smh
I've had luck using 3000, 3500, and even some older 2800K color temps. The spectrums are nice and solid, you can customize? some on KB, or at least, they have some selections, I think most have included a bit of extra reds. Also, good point to remember is you want ~35W per sqft and adding side lights is also a good investment. check my albums (see my signature for the links) I'd stay near 3000 - 3500. I have a smaller set of 5K I like to use for seedlings, but really, it's not that big a deal (?) as I've started plenty using lower color temps.
From a very brief look, Mars seems to be very cool. Links to info on LED grow light technology. Lots more links on each page. The Ultimate Guide to Spectrum Science in LED Grow Lights. How to Use UV and IR for Growing Indoor Plants
IMO for the best bang for your buck lighting. Best 2 x 2 light is ViparSpectra XS1500Pro Best 4 x 4 and up light is Bestva TF650 VS is $100 on Amazon right now. Bestva is $300 if you're in the US.