Ok here's a basic question then based on that. We see a lot of good solid grows through veg AND flower with certain models of LED. When I was researching the China LED market, kingbrite/spiderfarmer/Meiju etc, I was coming across a lot of positive reviews and solid grow journals with plants growing right up close to and even through between the bars of the fixtures with no negative effects.
What are the key differences between these fixtures and the Blux?
Spectrum is one. They come with deep and far red. But some don't and still seem to perform.
They also often come with a diffuser in the form of a plastic covering over the diodes. Could that be making a big difference to how the diode performs for cultivation? Again, some don't so..
They're using the samsung chips. Is the spectral output different enough - maybe more in the green/blue - to promote plant health without the need for extra heat and attention?
i think maybe its light intensity is the biggest issue with leaf temp second and spectrum a close third but really they are linked.
i think using a 'flower' spectrum (3000k90cri) for veg with too high an intensity with too low leaf temps = poor growth, really unhappy plants
using a 'flower' spectrum for veg with the right intensity but to low leaf temps = better but not great growth, unhappy plants.
using a 'flower' specctrum for veg with the right intensity with good leaf temps = probably acceptable growth, happy ish/not sad plants.
i think using a 'veg' spectrum (4000k80cri) for veg with too high an intensity with to low leaf temps = poor growth but slightly happier plants(normal ish DLI issues)
using a veg spectrum for veg with the right intensity but to low leaf temps = acceptable growth, happier again plants.
using a veg spectrum for veg with the right intensity and good leaf temps = good growth, happy plants.(but could be better)
i think maybe a red heavy spectrum for veg is overdriving the plants even at relatively low intensitys and without the perfect leaf temps coupled with the lack of blue to force stomata opening they cant transpire and growth stalls.
my 50/50 mix of 3000k80cri and 5000kcri80cri does ok for veg even with lower leaf temps, ok mind you not brilliant.
with good leaf temps its good, more than acceptable but not unreal amazing rain forest lush growth. there are still signs of not being 100% happy red stems ect.
i still think something is missing spectrum wise...
I agree with all of that. There's something not right here.
I take on board what people have advised regarding temps and transpiration, but when you think about this, we're talking a lot about efficiency on these LED pages.
If we have to use more electricity to get the lights to function properly then that should be factored into the overall gpw and efficiency picture.
So, Ideally, we don't want to
have to maintain room temps of 30c, if there's another way around it.
We don't want it to be difficult to replicate the type of growth we've had previously under supposedly less efficient lighting.
The best gauge of efficiency is how well it grows plants. When you refer to "rainforest lush growth" you're talking about speed of growth and health. Two of the main parameters in judging the efficiency/quality of a light.
There are still some clear gaps. That much is clear.
I still haven't seen any journals where people are using 3000k bxeb start to finish. If anyone has any links to some post them up, let's see how they're getting on.