Colors for Horticulture Lights
Horticulture lighting primarily focuses on red and blue wavelengths. These are the two most important colors on the visible light spectrum for promoting plant growth. That is why products on the horticulture lighting market often give off a purple glow—it is from the combination of red and blue light.
Every color within the light spectrum does have an effect on plant growth. After all, in a natural outdoor setting, plants are exposed to sunlight, which contains the full spectrum of colors. So how does each color wavelength affect plants?
- Blue: This is the most important light for plant growth. It is easy for chlorophyll to absorb and convert into energy.
- Red: As the second most important wavelength, red light is incredibly potent for plants when combined with blue light.
- Orange: Similar to red light, but less effective.
- Ultra-Violet: UV light is harmful to plants, which can actually promote healthy growth as plants work to protect themselves against the light.
- Violet: On its own, violet does not affect plant growth very much. But when used in combination with red and blue lights, it can promote the color, taste, and smell of plants.
- Green: While plants do not need much green light, they do need a small amount. Green light helps to regulate the “night” cycle while you navigate the grow room to maintain your plants.
- Yellow: Not much yellow light is needed for plants to grow strong and healthy.
So, you can see why a combination of red and blue light is the best mix for promoting healthy, quick-growing plants. Ideally, in general, the best horticulture lights will contain a red to blue ratio of 5:1.
