How LEDs are Helping Greenhouse Farming

When it comes to the world of greenhouse farming, there are a few key factors to ensure a successful outcome. Light is one of the most important factors in a greenhouse and LED is making some big changes to this location. Let's take a closer look at how LEDs are helping greenhouse farming in a variety of useful ways.

1. They are more cost-effective

When looking at how LEDs are helping greenhouse farming, the most obvious is the fact that they are more cost-effective than comparative greenhouse lighting solutions. LED operates on a lower wattage than other solutions which means a lowered utility bill because they use less electricity overall. This is important in a greenhouse setting where there are probably several fixtures operating for long stretches of time. LED is also more cost-effective because it has a higher output so the space may not require as many fixtures as with a lower lumen output fixture. LED is also more cost-effective because the fixtures last longer so the initial investment of switching to LED will pay itself off in terms of both used utilities over time and the overall longevity of the fixture before requiring replacement or repair.

2. They produce bigger plants

LED has been shown to produce bigger plants than other lamp solutions. Part of this result is because LED offers such a concentrated lumen output in a variety of color temperatures, but it is also because LED greenhouse lighting is often equipped with special controls to make it a more viable option for catering to the needs of specific plants. LED offers a higher lumen output, better color temperature, and a better spectrum of available wavelengths all of which is crucial for plants. LED even offers better color rendering indexes so workers can see problems in terms of colors of the plants with more ease.

3. They are better for workers

Since LED offers a better yield of growth, it reduces the need for the use of sometimes harmful chemicals to achieve the same growth effect. These chemicals help plants grow but can quickly become irritants to the workers as they breathe them in during routine checks of the plants or other tasks performed in the greenhouse. LED lamps can help eliminate the use of these chemicals for a safer work environment for all involved. LED is also free from flickers and offers a consistent light source that is easier on the eyes of the workers while they are in the greenhouse.

4. They are better for the environment

LED is also better for the environment overall. It is free from harmful mercury or other harmful components. It is also better for the environment because it operates on such low wattage of energy consumed. Another way LED used in greenhouses is better for the environment is that it helps to create an effective growing strategy which reduces the need for excess water, chemicals, or other waste. LED can make a greenhouse more effective in its growing abilities as well which results in more plants grown in a confined space without the need to tear up natural recourse such as land. Since LED lamps last longer, this also helps to cut down on resources or waste in terms of changing and discarding bulbs.

5. They last longer than other options

LED is long-lasting both in the fixture itself and the lamps of the fixture. This is especially ideal for greenhouse settings where constantly dealing with broken fixtures or burned out bulbs would get in the way of the growth phase and end result. LED operates without heat loss due to how efficient it is which helps eliminate fixtures issues when coupled with the driver the fixture operates on while the bulbs are free from delicate filaments which ensures their overall longevity as well.

6. LED is low maintenance

Another reason LED is changing the world of greenhouse farming is because it is low maintenance. Between the lamps and fixtures lasting so long and the fact that LED fixtures only require the occasional wipe down for cleaning, LED has changed the needs for maintenance in the greenhouse field so growers can focus on the task of growing instead of maintaining the light fixtures.

7. LED is durable

Finally, a greenhouse is a wet location where there is also the potential for dust, sprays, and other factors that could damage a light source. LED is durable with fixtures available in vapor tight, waterproof, and shatterproof options to accommodate such a location. There are different ratings in terms of fixtures, but LED wet rated fixtures are long-lasting and backed by warranties which only adds to the peace of mind of a greenhouse owner when choosing the right lighting solution for the job.