Introduction

Over recent years there has been a considerable increase in knowledge about the beneficial effects of artificial light upon plant growth and yield. Also, in combination with new growing techniques, significant developments in horticultural lamps, reflectors and light balancers have resulted in the use of artificial lights becoming a practical and economic proposition. This handbook provides a general appreciation of the photobiological processes that take place in plants, and the types and techniques of artificial lighting available to stimulate or control those growth processes.

Contents

Introduction

Light

	Photosynthesis
	Photomorphogenesis
	Photoperiodism

The Biology of Flowering

Photoperiodic Control

Lighting for Photoperiodism

Artificial Illumintaion

Lamp Types

	Incandescent Lamps
	Fluorescent Lamps
	High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps
	Mercury Vapor
	Metal Halide (MH)
	High Pressure Sodium (HPS) Lamps
	Conversion (Retrofit) Lamps
	Hybrid or 'Blended' Lamps

Ballast/Control Box

Reflectors

Reflective Surfaces

Light Balancers/Movers

Planning your Growroom

Economic Aspects

Commonly Asked Questions

Appendix A - Lighting terms

Appendix C - Recommended light cycles