you know when I was expanding my grow op to include an indoor op, with my normal outdoor op. I considered using LED lights. I saw several advantages to having them. But found only one flaw in them. But that one flaw was enough to change me on my ideas about using LED's light for my indoor grow op.
I truly believe LED is the future but now is not the time! Right now the LED industry is pretty much controlled by two maybe three Chinese LED companies,who throw on different labels for American companies that retail LED lights. The fact remains that the technology is still very new,and with new comes steep prices. But that wasn't the reason the kept me from purchasing LED lights. While the light seems to get by with vegging, they are terrible for flowering in my opinion. Hey, but if you live in a High rise in Honolulu!? I imagine it is probably the safest way to go.
I wish you the best of luck, and I will be watching your films(videos).
Thanks the insight Puna. I'm very small scale and grow solely for medical purposes. My first grow started in December '09 with a UFO LED, and some CFLS. For a first timer I'm happy with my results. I yielded 5.08 Oz dried/cured, which might be a very small quantity for you guys but its alot for me.
The major benefit I see from LEDs are:
- No need for high grade cooling and ventilation
- Extremely low electricity bills
- No need to replace parts after each grow (Ballasts, Bulbs)
- No special electricity requirements. Uses standard wall socket
- LED's cover all Red & Blue Spectrums
Yes, I agree LED's are a bit expensive. But after one grow, it paid it self off. Think about how much electricity I saved! I do agree that they will get better. I predict that in about 2 years, HPS will be a thing of the past.
Note: There's a massive misconception that LED's are only good for flowering. Thats just false.
At the end of the day, do whats best for you.
-- Peace