San Marzano tomato seedlings, LED vs. fluorescent grow bulbs
Previously, I mentioned that my LED grow light system was not working out well. The plants were too leggy and were not maturing as fast as they should. I broke down and purchased a new light system before the next round of seedlings need to be started (which will be this weekend). I ordered a single-shelf fluorescent grow light system from Gardener’s Supply. I love it! I am still bummed about the LED system not working out because it uses less electricity than the fluorescent bulbs, but clearly the technology is not quite there yet. All you need to do is look at the pic above and compare. The seedling on the left was grown under the LED lights, and the seedling on the right was rescued from the LED system and has spent a week under the new grow light system. Huge difference.
Shiro plum tree in full bloom
Well, I’ve got a busy gardening weekend ahead. Can’t wait to get outside tomorrow.
Sandy
The 10 Year Challenge 
I tried LEDs this year with the exact same results. My onion seedlings grew just OK and the lettuce was slow growing but worked. Everything else was awful. I’m back to fluorescents. They work very well and give me great seedlings. I’m bummed about it too. The low level of energy they require seemed perfect for me since I tend to have at least one light on from January until August.
Hi Daphne,
Sorry to hear you had the same experience LEDs. A gardening buddy sent some info about how the technology is on the verge of getting better, but the basic panels I had (and you it sounds) just won’t cut it yet.
Sandy
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Sorry again about the lights. I hope you’re happy with the new ones, the plants sure are. And isn’t it cool to see the trees in bloom. My allergies hate it, but you can’t have everything, hehe.
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