I purchased the same lights. I'm using two per shelf ( shelf is 18 inches deep). I too removed the covers. I cut the end off and was able to slide the cover off in tact. The only thing is I had to add a few dabs of hot glue to hold the light strip in place. They are super bright! And you can't beat the price. I ordered two sets. Next up, seed starts! Thanks.
You inspired me to give this a try, I used an app on my phone to measure the light intensity: I have the same light but in the 5000K color Distance between the bottom of light and top of my phone: 10" [254mm] Light with diffuser: ~2900 lux max Light without diffuser: ~4400 lux max That’s 41% better Intensity @ 3" from bottom of light without diffuser: ~14000 lux max Not too shabby ... Thanks for making this video!
Much thanks for the info! I thought they'd be more efficient now. Warmer color and higher output, as well. Is there a specific brand name, model for these fixtures..?🤔👍
@@timturk1899 I specifically used Barrina 5000K 4 ft lights which you can buy on AMZ, if you are going to buy them you probably should get the 6500K version, I had mine leftover from another project and my plants are growing great. However, you should also consider checking for similar lights at your local Walmart (if you have one), they have a 2 row LED shop light (Hyper Tough) that is rated for 5000lm at 5000k and 45W for $20.
I just watched this now and found it so helpful. Do you have an update on how your plants did under these lights? I'm just starting out the process to replace my old inefficient system. Thank you!
Funny, I bought these, they just arrived today, and this video was in my recommendations 😂 I’m actually converting my daughters old crib she never slept in, into a seed starting/growing station. The mattress wire frame is adjustable, so that’s nice, can raise and lower the frame as the seedlings need to get farther away from the light source. Was thinking to line the inside with tin foil for light reflection, and I’ll be fixing the 6 Lights side by side across a length of plywood that I’ll be laying over the top of the crib.
CC, I hate to spoil your fun. Check for safety certifications for these lights: they either don't exist or they're fraudulent (power cord stamp is for other power cables). You also can't get replacement power cords that are properly certified. When plugging anything into your outlet: (as a consumer) you need to make sure it won't be a problem. Safety certs ensure proper safe operation in your house and will make sure there are no fires if lightning, or other electrical faults occur.
I have bought lots of grow lights on amazon, and you get what you pay for. High voltage (120v/220v) is nothing to take lightly when it comes to keeping your loved ones safe.
Been looking to replace fluorescent lights on my grow table that are failing too soon. Stumbled on your video. Two sets order with 30 minutes of watching. Thank you for the incite.
@@jpegcoma the micro moles per second centimeter. That’s the unit of light density a light gives for a given distance and relative position to the sensor. It’s what the apogee meters show.
To many variables to say that. Plants need the right environment and vpd ntm light spectrum. I see many ppl buying these lights for growing and while the work ok for clones they lack in power and PAR to grow full size plants.
lumens are for humans, PAR is for plants. lumens are the last thing that should be considered when searching for under cabinet lights for grow lights, look Kelvin has a better effect when you are looking for a certain outside// of what crop you may be growing.
@@earlleighbyrd6083 I answered to another post about this. This video shows you how to AFFORDABLY start seeds indoors. To just get a jump on the season, and start seedlings, you need nothing more than what he has demonstrated. If you want full spectrum lights or blurple goofy stuff that is rated for PAR, you're going to pay an arm and a leg and/or get massively ripped off. And they just aren't necessary. A nice blue light between 4100 and 6500k--an LED high efficiency T5--will get the vegetative growth started, and the flowering and/or fruiting takes place during the summer in the full spectrum, excellent PAR-rated sun. LOL.
@@Jess-ew9ql I'm actually just trying to get some tomato plants and a couple of perennials to the "healthy seedling" point before planting outside in late May. It sounds like these will do the trick! Thanks for your comment!
This was great info. It looks like you have had them a couple of seasons now. How are the LEDs holding up and how did the seedlings do under them? I see lots of videos of a pretty good looking garden. Do you have an update? Thanks. Im enjoying your channel .
Good Evening. Question: Now that it's been 4 years since this DIY what's your thought on this system. Would you still take the casing off. Are they still in production. Did this system meet your needs in starting your seedlings indoors. What would your changes be, if you have any. New subscriber from Northern Ontario Canada.
We did the same thing but picked up a pack of 5k bulbs and put two of them in with 4 of the 6500k to give a little broader spectrum. Last year we only did 4 bars for a 2’ x 4’ shelf and it really wasn’t enuff light. Increased that to 6 bars this year and performing much better...
I have found that when building things such as your light bar that using 2 X 3 's is more cost effective than 2 X 4's and significantly lighter also . I often do not need the strength of 2 X 4's so I save both money and weight .
Just curious, since I am considering purchasing also, I do not see a follow-up video, what are your thoughts now, or was it covered in a different video?
Very nice, but lights need to be about a couple of inches from the tops of the plants, so the fixture mounting or the plant shelf need to be adjustable.
I use these lights for my work room in the basement. I love the video. Good work! I'm now looking into growing indoors. North Dakota doesn't offer a long outdoor growing season! THanks!
Just starting these now with veggie seedlings (all of the things.. peppers, tomatoes, greens, etc). Sounds like you've had success for a couple years with growing veg seedlings with these, but wondering how many inches from the plants did you keep the lights? And you had 6 bulbs (no covers) for a rack 10x20 four trays stacked?
I'm doing the very same, but hadn't thought about removing the frosted lens. Mine are hopefully going to be here tomorrow but i ordered 6500k and 3000k so will be using both, side-by-side. Not sure what others think about this
Have you considered hanging sheets of Mylar across the back and sides of the grow racks? If you do not want to purchase mylar then try the inside of snack chip bags.
Wondering if anyone has done a "diy mylar curtain" lol. I live in an apartment, and my rack is in my living room, right next to my window, with a large mirror on the side; want to 1) block off the light whilst watching TV etc and 2) minimize irritation toward my neighbors. A project to consider...
Wow thats nice. I have no clue about lighting and looking for some way to get lights for my seeds when I start in February. I do not even know the difference with the T12 or T8. I am a rookie I guess. Also do not have a lot of money for lights. Thank you
This is a great idea for modding those strips. I just have a few questions and/or recommendations. First, why is it necessary to do this at all if you aren't connecting them to chains or pulleys to easily raise and lower them? That seems to me like that would be the wisest thing. Of course, I bought a wire shelving unit so it's easier, but you're obviously handy and could have drilled holes in the shelf above each set of lights? Anyway, this shows me how to do it and I'm grateful for that. But I'm just going to add on some eye hooks and some $15 vivosun pulley things I got on Amazon Warehouse to easily raise and lower the light as needed. Second, given the dimensions of your shelves--I think theyre six square feet right, 48x18 each? Why do you feel that it's necessary to have six lights on each? By my calculation, four would be the max needed if they are 55 watt fluorescent equivalent... You could probably get by with three. Am I missing something, this is my first year doing this so I honestly would like to know :-) Third, just wanted to mention that I was looking at reflectors and they are cost prohibitive for me at least. But a DIY tip for anyone interested: a poster on a aquatic lighting forum--same general idea of wanting concentrated light--came up with the idea of using 1" PVC pipes behind each, which isn't a perfect parabola but definitely reflects more light than say a flat sheet of aluminum foil. And per that forum, white light is pretty much as reflective as tin foil when you account for it wrinkling and so forth. It was very technical in its explanation but suffice to say that, having a bunch of PVC pipe lying around, I'm going to try it. Maybe I'll make my first post on UA-cam! Just cutting it longitudinally seems to be a bit of a hazardous thing; I have RSI's in my hands so I can't really use a hacksaw, guess I will try a jigsaw. Anyway, thanks again. Fabulous idea, great presentation, and other than the two points I raised, I am totally inspired!
1. Frame unnessesary, just keeps lights straight and makes it easier to raise/lower it. 2. More light will grow more faster. 3. PVC is a great recommendation. Aluminum foil tape with work just as well with less cutting.
The LED chips are flat and are on a flat strip so there is little light going sideways or up. A reflector would have little to reflect. Try one reflector and compare light meter readings with and without the reflector.
the efficiency is about 2.1 micromoles per joule. I use these in veg because I need the extra heat on the surface of the leaves. In bloom, you should try to buy something in the 2.75 micromoles per joule or higher. This range is only achieved in professional grade lights.
I am going to your lights this year I am going to us the lights that I have this year if they still work if not I will be making it sooner. so when I make them I am going to post picks of them
dang i use 12 of these (with the covers) to light up my entire 2 car garage (400Sqft), i imagine that thing is super bright with 6 in that small of a space.
I ORDERED THIS UNIT. THE BULBS ARE T 5 S FOR STARTING SEEDLINGS ? I ALSO WANT TO ORDER THE 6 BULB T 5 BURBLE LIGHTS FOR GROWING AFTER THE PLANTS HAVE GROWN AROUND 5 INCHES. OR SO. PUT THEM UP AND GROW THE LARGER SEEDLINGS UNTIL MID APRIL,WHEN I I HOPE TO TAKE OUTSIDE PERMANENTLY. WHAT DO YOU THINK? I REALLY HOPE YOU RESPOND TO MY QUESTIONS. I JUST WANT TO GROW SOME WILD EXOTIC THINGS. LIKE TROMBONE N SQUASH / YELLOW ROUND TENNIS BALL CUMBERS / LITTLE BABY MELLON S AND LOPES / TOMATOES THAT I HAVE NEVER SEEN. GOING TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN AND EAT GO0OD TOO. THANK YOU
A friend of mine got these and is supper happy with them. I would like this setup, but can only do 30" length at the most, 2ft would be better. I've been searching for them, but cannot find any. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thank you!
Fun fact, these use a old LED diode. That you can find on strip light. get 15 feet of 5054 600/m strips. Wayyyy brighter. Wayyyy cheaperr. Wayyy newer. =) Even with the upgrade tho you pretty much gotta have them touching your babies. They just aren't ment for growing really an if ya is just veg really.
Great value. Just curious, any reason you couldn't just use 16" strips of LEDs sold in reels? They're only $12+/-. Although it would need a structure. And another question...why not buy a color adjustable strip so the light could be varied as needed (seedling, flowering, growth) or is this type of color not effective for some reason?
@@jerryirle1 I have not...just curious if it would work. And now that I look at the price, I'm not sure there's any reason to use the strips...just buy the light with all the hardware. I am still interested if there's any value or benefit of varying the temp of the lights as plants progress through different growth phases.
2 could be enough for starting seeds. I made a set with 3 strips and it was 1.9X as bright as our set of 4 T12 fluorescent bulbs. 2 strips would be 1.3X brighter than our fluorescents.
You should check out the new LED strip lights. About the same price as this setup with x10 the efficiency and PAR values. Quantum boards are unbeatable.
@@bstores449 www.sunplix.com/product/spled-g1-series-led-grow-light/ This is a cheaper version of the latest and greatest grow lighting tech on the market. It isn't cheap but depending on what you are growing it pays for itself on the first use. The major brand is shop.fluence.science/store/spydr-series/spydrx-plus/ at double the cost. Not sure about warranty on either. I have several sunplix 600w with red diodes as well and it has been operating without fail for over a year. I have bought everything on the market and this has been the best light/style/type so far especially for heat and light coverage/penetration.
How Did it Work? I use 3 across on a comparable rack, But then again I do Hydroponics so they only stay under those lights 4/6 weeks then onto a T8 system in a DWC setup. Thanks
You should update and do a new video on quantum boards. That’s the intimate DIY grow light. It’s all about spectrum and them lights aren’t built for it.
Quantum boards are better for growing plants to harvest. A $200+ quantum board setup to cover a single shelf is not a good value compared to this $50 SEED STARTER.
@@kenhollingshead5064 where are you getting 200$ from? I use T5s for my clones and seed starters bc of their 6500k spectrum but for growing mature plants quantum boards are great. Even philadendrens like albos and other household plants really bennifit from quality lighting. My wife grows and sells exotic rare plants and I did her lighting for her with some little quantum boards and her plants are the healthiest plants in the groups she's in. She needs tight internodes and thick stems witch a more blue full spectrum is better for that. It's about what you want from your plants. Plants are resilient and will grow under almost any light but won't be as healthy or sturdy as a plant under true full spectrum lighting. I'm not saying you need to have 10k in lighting like I do but a few hundred is worth the money.
I recently did something very similar with 4' T8 LED bulbs. They are made by GE are 6500K and 2300 lumens. Got a 10 pack for $74 at Lowes. Installed them into some hanging housings mounted to some nice pulleys I got off of Amazon. Anyways, my lettuce is already exploding to life after just a week. I tested them with my spectrometer and they have a great smooth/broad spectrum down from around 420nm up to 650 to 670nm. They run nice and cool and I will keep them around 1 to 2 inches off of the plants. GE does make some similar bulbs that are rated for growing. However, they are only rated to last around 25,000 hours instead of 50,000 hours... but have a much higher lumen rating. What is great about my setup is adaptability. Later on I can throw in a mix of different color spectrums and bulb types if desired.
@@SoilandMargaritas I believe these were the ones I got. They have metal internal gears and are rated for 150lbs. Come in different sizes. Should last a lifetime with something light hanging from them. www.amazon.com/Apollo-Horticulture-Adjustable-Improved-Internal/dp/B0098R0600/ref=pd_ys_c_rfy_rp_m_83_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0098R0600&pd_rd_r=7H26HNEVRQ91YHVGD5W8&pd_rd_w=LGP9P&pd_rd_wg=6bLSL&pf_rd_p=c7f67ff9-5ed1-4703-a424-5e08316bd05a&pf_rd_r=7H26HNEVRQ91YHVGD5W8&psc=1&refRID=6VXDQGVTMS27QB3Z6SY8
@@TheBurchinalFamily The main thing is to get ones that have the two following features... they are designed to hang, and they hold 4 bulbs and are about 12" wide or so. Took some digging but I found the ones I got. I believe Amazon sells them as well. www.lowes.com/pd/Lithonia-Lighting-4L-Grid-Shoplight-Linear-Shop-Light-Common-4-ft-Actual-12-in-48-in/1001382788
It doesn't say they are full spectrum. I thought grow lights needed to be full spectrum to not have "leggy" seedlings. I am looking to add to my starter lights, but I didn't want to pay the price I did on my original fluorescent lights. Thanks for the info.
Hey Tangela, a lot of people start lights without full spectrum. If you are wanting to take them to the flowering stage, you will definitely want to add in some more full spectrum. But for my purposes of starting the plants for 6-8 weeks before taking them outside the "white" lights works well enough.
Thanks for the video and the link to the lights! do you think 6 lights are enough if I were to make a 21" deep setup to cover the 1020 trays that are 21" long? I'm going to set them from front to back in a deep shelf unit so I can fit more trays.Thanks again! just found your channel and subscribed.
A red lens or cover does not add red light. It blocks some of all but the red component of the "white" light. You get red by reducing the total amount of light. Best to do without ant lens or cover.
Wouldn't this work to pot the clones for a few days in a drip pan and let them grow for a few days under these lights before placing them under the LED'S as a transitional period? Less shock to the new plants? Just an idea.
Has anyone got these lights to grow tomatoes and hot peppers indoors from seeds. As the Gabriel does not any feedback questions or did not do a follow up video showing if these lights are any good.
@@PlantBasedGabriel Thanks for the reply. But you should have make a follow up video to prove they work. It like building a car & not see it drive. The prove is in the pudding. I watch other garden shows and show it all.
@@PlantBasedGabriel Thanks for the video!! I see you mentioned 4 lights might be enough, have you tried that yet or just the 6 light set-up (for a 20-21" depth trays)? Also what height do you set the lights above plants for veggies? I know for flourescents it's around 2", and usually for regular grow LEDs it's much further like 12+" I think, but what did you find for these? I'd love not to shock my 350 seedlings as they're popping up now if I can help it ;)
Question; from the comments, it’s seems the single white spectrum is sufficient for seedlings. Would purchasing fuller spectrum lights significantly increase the project budget? Asking for a fiend. ;)
Does anybody know what LEDs those barrina 6500k lights utilize? Like in are those some special spectrum high quality LEDs or just some generic SMDs like you’d find on led strips?
Just came across your channel, not sure if anyone asked but what are your thoughts using these lights for growing micro greens? Just subscribe, thank you for your content!
@@PlantBasedGabriel I appreciate you taking time out to reply!! I’m excited to learning more about starting a plant based diet! Stay warm and Keep Bringing Your Awesomeness!!
ive been using these for a few years now. unreal results from lettuce to tomatoes to the bob marley. vegetation that is. i keep them 2 feet under lights and its perfect. i tried a foot but were too close. i was shocked and still am how nnice these are for the price
Hey Mike, here is the link to the ones without the frosted cover. www.amazon.com/Barrina-Integrated-Daylight-Warehouse-Workshop/dp/B07G2Q4VZN/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=led+light+shop&qid=1552921878&s=gateway&sr=8-10
The specific lights have 1 row of LEDs. The manufacturer, Barrina, does offer LED assemblies through Amazon with 2 rows of LEDs that are about twice as bright, twice as much power, for about twice the price. Barrina also has a number of models with clear covers, so you don't have to cut off the frosted cover.
Kelvin and lumens are measurements for heat and brightness for the human eye , if you were growing human eyes they might work very well , but actual grow lights have a spectrum called the ppfd , photosynthesis proton flux density , that fancy word relates to what plants need , red , green and blue light , actually white light is unneeded for plants , always look to the ppfd before buying lights , these shop lights will work for seedlings but will be almost worthless to grow plants indoors , you will need to keep the lights so close to the plants just to keep them alive .. its just not worth it , buy grow lights , not shop lights
Yes they come with the brackets.......I seen on amazon in description............www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HBT3BVM/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=youcanteatthe-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01HBT3BVM&linkId=a85b1c91a77040ff771cde486a6bb950
lumens are ok to mention but you need to know the info on the strip also , they are 6500K cri 85 , 3 spaces 4 1/2 apart center to center and i forget if i was 9 or 10 inches from plant canopy the lux conversion worked out to 206.8 umol/s/m2 ( with the covers on ) i will let you know the numbers if i remeve the covers. i also have on my set up 2 4000K of same power as these 142.58 umol/s/m2 and run them on my lettuce and herbs, let just suffice to say i cannot keep up with the basil and herbs. i have lettuce for salads very regular at least 5 times a week with fresh herbs and get some tomatoes year round from my hydroponics
I purchased the same lights. I'm using two per shelf ( shelf is 18 inches deep). I too removed the covers. I cut the end off and was able to slide the cover off in tact. The only thing is I had to add a few dabs of hot glue to hold the light strip in place. They are super bright! And you can't beat the price. I ordered two sets. Next up, seed starts! Thanks.
I built something similar but used 12W LED bulbs from the store. Works great to start seedlings.
You inspired me to give this a try, I used an app on my phone to measure the light intensity:
I have the same light but in the 5000K color
Distance between the bottom of light and top of my phone: 10" [254mm]
Light with diffuser: ~2900 lux max
Light without diffuser: ~4400 lux max
That’s 41% better
Intensity @ 3" from bottom of light without diffuser: ~14000 lux max
Not too shabby ... Thanks for making this video!
Much thanks for the info! I thought they'd be more efficient now. Warmer color and higher output, as well. Is there a specific brand name, model for these fixtures..?🤔👍
@@timturk1899 I specifically used Barrina 5000K 4 ft lights which you can buy on AMZ, if you are going to buy them you probably should get the 6500K version, I had mine leftover from another project and my plants are growing great. However, you should also consider checking for similar lights at your local Walmart (if you have one), they have a 2 row LED shop light (Hyper Tough) that is rated for 5000lm at 5000k and 45W for $20.
I just watched this now and found it so helpful. Do you have an update on how your plants did under these lights? I'm just starting out the process to replace my old inefficient system. Thank you!
Funny, I bought these, they just arrived today, and this video was in my recommendations 😂 I’m actually converting my daughters old crib she never slept in, into a seed starting/growing station. The mattress wire frame is adjustable, so that’s nice, can raise and lower the frame as the seedlings need to get farther away from the light source.
Was thinking to line the inside with tin foil for light reflection, and I’ll be fixing the 6 Lights side by side across a length of plywood that I’ll be laying over the top of the crib.
CC, I hate to spoil your fun. Check for safety certifications for these lights: they either don't exist or they're fraudulent (power cord stamp is for other power cables).
You also can't get replacement power cords that are properly certified. When plugging anything into your outlet: (as a consumer) you need to make sure it won't be a problem. Safety certs ensure proper safe operation in your house and will make sure there are no fires if lightning, or other electrical faults occur.
I have bought lots of grow lights on amazon, and you get what you pay for. High voltage (120v/220v) is nothing to take lightly when it comes to keeping your loved ones safe.
Been looking to replace fluorescent lights on my grow table that are failing too soon. Stumbled on your video. Two sets order with 30 minutes of watching. Thank you for the incite.
Using an Apogee PAR meter, I found that the usable light output is slightly more than doubled by removing the frosted covers from these lights.
What was the PAR read and from what distance? Thank you in advance. Thinking about doing this if the PAR is high enough
I’d also Like to hear what umols you got from these
what umols you got?
@@jpegcoma the micro moles per second centimeter. That’s the unit of light density a light gives for a given distance and relative position to the sensor. It’s what the apogee meters show.
To many variables to say that. Plants need the right environment and vpd ntm light spectrum. I see many ppl buying these lights for growing and while the work ok for clones they lack in power and PAR to grow full size plants.
Wow, the lights are so much brighter without the cover. This is great. I use LEDs for my planted aquarium, this is a great idea. Thanks for the link!
Thanks! I was definitely happy with how much more output I was able to get from them with the frosted case off.
lumens are for humans, PAR is for plants. lumens are the last thing that should be considered when searching for under cabinet lights for grow lights, look Kelvin has a better effect when you are looking for a certain outside// of what crop you may be growing.
@@earlleighbyrd6083 he tels you there are 6500 kelvin whit light dude!
@@earlleighbyrd6083 I answered to another post about this. This video shows you how to AFFORDABLY start seeds indoors. To just get a jump on the season, and start seedlings, you need nothing more than what he has demonstrated. If you want full spectrum lights or blurple goofy stuff that is rated for PAR, you're going to pay an arm and a leg and/or get massively ripped off. And they just aren't necessary. A nice blue light between 4100 and 6500k--an LED high efficiency T5--will get the vegetative growth started, and the flowering and/or fruiting takes place during the summer in the full spectrum, excellent PAR-rated sun. LOL.
@@Jess-ew9ql I'm actually just trying to get some tomato plants and a couple of perennials to the "healthy seedling" point before planting outside in late May. It sounds like these will do the trick! Thanks for your comment!
This was great info. It looks like you have had them a couple of seasons now. How are the LEDs holding up and how did the seedlings do under them? I see lots of videos of a pretty good looking garden. Do you have an update? Thanks. Im enjoying your channel .
Good Evening. Question: Now that it's been 4 years since this DIY what's your thought on this system. Would you still take the casing off. Are they still in production. Did this system meet your needs in starting your seedlings indoors. What would your changes be, if you have any. New subscriber from Northern Ontario Canada.
Looking for a follow up video, was there one made? Going to give setup a try.
I 2nd.
We did the same thing but picked up a pack of 5k bulbs and put two of them in with 4 of the 6500k to give a little broader spectrum. Last year we only did 4 bars for a 2’ x 4’ shelf and it really wasn’t enuff light. Increased that to 6 bars this year and performing much better...
Thanks for the ideas. I have to buy lights soon. Thanks Glenn
Well done. Good call removing the diffusers. Fortunately they can also be purchased now without them.
Fantasticly helpful. I second all the good stuff other commenters said.
I have found that when building things such as your light bar that using 2 X 3 's is more cost effective than 2 X 4's and significantly lighter also . I often do not need the strength of 2 X 4's so I save both money and weight .
Great idea, for these I really just used some lumber I had sitting around.
@Plant Based Gabriel ,
Yes , of course , use what you already have on hand. I usually have to buy new so I use 2 X 3's instead of 2 X 4's
1x2 is plenty strong enough
Just curious, since I am considering purchasing also, I do not see a follow-up video, what are your thoughts now, or was it covered in a different video?
No one ever follows up with anything ever
Very nice, but lights need to be about a couple of inches from the tops of the plants, so the fixture mounting or the plant shelf need to be adjustable.
I wish they would make them with the clear covers, even for normal use, the look of the concentrated light looks so much nicer.
I did this last year. I used the kihung brand which have removable lenses.
I use these lights for my work room in the basement. I love the video. Good work! I'm now looking into growing indoors. North Dakota doesn't offer a long outdoor growing season! THanks!
Also in North Dakota, looking to start some seeds. Did you try this? Does it work well?
@@alexiatrott2714 yeah it worked great for my first time. Just have to figure out what grow medium works best for your ceop
Great video, it gave me so many ideas already for my grow light setup
Wow, awesome video! Thank you so much for sharing your set-up.
I'm glad he went ahead and decided to go ahead and show us how he went ahead to go ahead and make this.
?
Great video, but yes, he uses the phrases "go ahead" and "went ahead" A LOT!
Just starting these now with veggie seedlings (all of the things.. peppers, tomatoes, greens, etc). Sounds like you've had success for a couple years with growing veg seedlings with these, but wondering how many inches from the plants did you keep the lights? And you had 6 bulbs (no covers) for a rack 10x20 four trays stacked?
I'm doing the very same, but hadn't thought about removing the frosted lens. Mine are hopefully going to be here tomorrow but i ordered 6500k and 3000k so will be using both, side-by-side. Not sure what others think about this
Should work out great
Like others, I would enjoy a follow up video. But sweet DIY setup
Have you considered hanging sheets of Mylar across the back and sides of the grow racks? If you do not want to purchase mylar then try the inside of snack chip bags.
Wondering if anyone has done a "diy mylar curtain" lol. I live in an apartment, and my rack is in my living room, right next to my window, with a large mirror on the side; want to 1) block off the light whilst watching TV etc and 2) minimize irritation toward my neighbors. A project to consider...
@@Jess-ew9ql Walmart has mylar table cloths (76 inches long) for three bucks.
Wow thats nice. I have no clue about lighting and looking for some way to get lights for my seeds when I start in February. I do not even know the difference with the T12 or T8. I am a rookie I guess. Also do not have a lot of money for lights. Thank you
Nice, chef AJ
Plant based diets and grow light projects😃
I grew the shit in my basement 40 years ago and it was fun.
How close did you have to put them to the seedlings. More details on how they made the plants grow.
Should be about 2" to start and raise accordingly as seedlings grow.
This is a great idea for modding those strips. I just have a few questions and/or recommendations.
First, why is it necessary to do this at all if you aren't connecting them to chains or pulleys to easily raise and lower them? That seems to me like that would be the wisest thing. Of course, I bought a wire shelving unit so it's easier, but you're obviously handy and could have drilled holes in the shelf above each set of lights? Anyway, this shows me how to do it and I'm grateful for that. But I'm just going to add on some eye hooks and some $15 vivosun pulley things I got on Amazon Warehouse to easily raise and lower the light as needed.
Second, given the dimensions of your shelves--I think theyre six square feet right, 48x18 each? Why do you feel that it's necessary to have six lights on each? By my calculation, four would be the max needed if they are 55 watt fluorescent equivalent... You could probably get by with three. Am I missing something, this is my first year doing this so I honestly would like to know :-)
Third, just wanted to mention that I was looking at reflectors and they are cost prohibitive for me at least. But a DIY tip for anyone interested: a poster on a aquatic lighting forum--same general idea of wanting concentrated light--came up with the idea of using 1" PVC pipes behind each, which isn't a perfect parabola but definitely reflects more light than say a flat sheet of aluminum foil. And per that forum, white light is pretty much as reflective as tin foil when you account for it wrinkling and so forth. It was very technical in its explanation but suffice to say that, having a bunch of PVC pipe lying around, I'm going to try it. Maybe I'll make my first post on UA-cam! Just cutting it longitudinally seems to be a bit of a hazardous thing; I have RSI's in my hands so I can't really use a hacksaw, guess I will try a jigsaw.
Anyway, thanks again. Fabulous idea, great presentation, and other than the two points I raised, I am totally inspired!
1. Frame unnessesary, just keeps lights straight and makes it easier to raise/lower it.
2. More light will grow more faster.
3. PVC is a great recommendation. Aluminum foil tape with work just as well with less cutting.
The LED chips are flat and are on a flat strip so there is little light going sideways or up. A reflector would have little to reflect. Try one reflector and compare light meter readings with and without the reflector.
the efficiency is about 2.1 micromoles per joule. I use these in veg because I need the extra heat on the surface of the leaves. In bloom, you should try to buy something in the 2.75 micromoles per joule or higher. This range is only achieved in professional grade lights.
Thanks so much for this video...I recently bought these lights and you gave me an idea.
So what's the verdict after 1 year
I am going to your lights this year I am going to us the lights that I have this year if they still work if not I will be making it sooner. so when I make them I am going to post picks of them
dang i use 12 of these (with the covers) to light up my entire 2 car garage (400Sqft), i imagine that thing is super bright with 6 in that small of a space.
Agreed. I really don't see the need for so many lights per rack given the area; I think three or four is more than enough to get seeds started
I ORDERED THIS UNIT. THE BULBS ARE T 5 S FOR STARTING SEEDLINGS ? I ALSO WANT TO ORDER THE 6 BULB T 5 BURBLE LIGHTS FOR GROWING AFTER THE PLANTS HAVE GROWN AROUND 5 INCHES. OR SO. PUT THEM UP AND GROW THE LARGER SEEDLINGS
UNTIL MID APRIL,WHEN I I HOPE TO TAKE OUTSIDE PERMANENTLY. WHAT DO YOU THINK? I REALLY HOPE YOU RESPOND TO MY QUESTIONS. I JUST WANT TO GROW SOME WILD EXOTIC THINGS. LIKE TROMBONE N SQUASH / YELLOW ROUND TENNIS BALL CUMBERS / LITTLE BABY MELLON S AND LOPES / TOMATOES THAT I HAVE NEVER SEEN. GOING TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN AND EAT GO0OD TOO. THANK YOU
Can we PLEASE get an update? I really would like to know.
A friend of mine got these and is supper happy with them. I would like this setup, but can only do 30" length at the most, 2ft would be better. I've been searching for them, but cannot find any. Do you have any suggestions for me? Thank you!
Fun fact, these use a old LED diode. That you can find on strip light. get 15 feet of 5054 600/m strips. Wayyyy brighter. Wayyyy cheaperr. Wayyy newer. =) Even with the upgrade tho you pretty much gotta have them touching your babies. They just aren't ment for growing really an if ya is just veg really.
Great value. Just curious, any reason you couldn't just use 16" strips of LEDs sold in reels? They're only $12+/-. Although it would need a structure. And another question...why not buy a color adjustable strip so the light could be varied as needed (seedling, flowering, growth) or is this type of color not effective for some reason?
Have you tried this?
@@jerryirle1 I have not...just curious if it would work. And now that I look at the price, I'm not sure there's any reason to use the strips...just buy the light with all the hardware. I am still interested if there's any value or benefit of varying the temp of the lights as plants progress through different growth phases.
The strips you are referring too what output do they have Kelvin and lumens as thats what determines if the light can work.
I want to grow Basil plants in an Aquaponics setup. Any suggestions on upgrades in 2022?
Is it really necessary to use 6 strips for 1 shelf? I'm hoping 2 are sufficient?
2 could be enough for starting seeds. I made a set with 3 strips and it was 1.9X as bright as our set of 4 T12 fluorescent bulbs. 2 strips would be 1.3X brighter than our fluorescents.
You should check out the new LED strip lights. About the same price as this setup with x10 the efficiency and PAR values. Quantum boards are unbeatable.
Can you post a link to the ones you're talking about?
@@bstores449 www.sunplix.com/product/spled-g1-series-led-grow-light/
This is a cheaper version of the latest and greatest grow lighting tech on the market. It isn't cheap but depending on what you are growing it pays for itself on the first use. The major brand is shop.fluence.science/store/spydr-series/spydrx-plus/ at double the cost. Not sure about warranty on either. I have several sunplix 600w with red diodes as well and it has been operating without fail for over a year. I have bought everything on the market and this has been the best light/style/type so far especially for heat and light coverage/penetration.
The light you link below starts at $500. Outside my budget compared to this $50 SEED STARTER.
How Did it Work? I use 3 across on a comparable rack, But then again I do Hydroponics so they only stay under those lights 4/6 weeks then onto a T8 system in a DWC setup. Thanks
You should update and do a new video on quantum boards. That’s the intimate DIY grow light. It’s all about spectrum and them lights aren’t built for it.
Quantum boards are better for growing plants to harvest. A $200+ quantum board setup to cover a single shelf is not a good value compared to this $50 SEED STARTER.
@@kenhollingshead5064 where are you getting 200$ from? I use T5s for my clones and seed starters bc of their 6500k spectrum but for growing mature plants quantum boards are great. Even philadendrens like albos and other household plants really bennifit from quality lighting. My wife grows and sells exotic rare plants and I did her lighting for her with some little quantum boards and her plants are the healthiest plants in the groups she's in. She needs tight internodes and thick stems witch a more blue full spectrum is better for that. It's about what you want from your plants. Plants are resilient and will grow under almost any light but won't be as healthy or sturdy as a plant under true full spectrum lighting. I'm not saying you need to have 10k in lighting like I do but a few hundred is worth the money.
What would you say your setup will do for lettuce? Thanks for your help.
I recently did something very similar with 4' T8 LED bulbs. They are made by GE are 6500K and 2300 lumens. Got a 10 pack for $74 at Lowes. Installed them into some hanging housings mounted to some nice pulleys I got off of Amazon.
Anyways, my lettuce is already exploding to life after just a week. I tested them with my spectrometer and they have a great smooth/broad spectrum down from around 420nm up to 650 to 670nm. They run nice and cool and I will keep them around 1 to 2 inches off of the plants.
GE does make some similar bulbs that are rated for growing. However, they are only rated to last around 25,000 hours instead of 50,000 hours... but have a much higher lumen rating.
What is great about my setup is adaptability. Later on I can throw in a mix of different color spectrums and bulb types if desired.
Would you have the amazon link for the pulleys? I am trying to build lights for 2 shelves and I am trying to save some cash where I can.
@@SoilandMargaritas I believe these were the ones I got. They have metal internal gears and are rated for 150lbs. Come in different sizes. Should last a lifetime with something light hanging from them. www.amazon.com/Apollo-Horticulture-Adjustable-Improved-Internal/dp/B0098R0600/ref=pd_ys_c_rfy_rp_m_83_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0098R0600&pd_rd_r=7H26HNEVRQ91YHVGD5W8&pd_rd_w=LGP9P&pd_rd_wg=6bLSL&pf_rd_p=c7f67ff9-5ed1-4703-a424-5e08316bd05a&pf_rd_r=7H26HNEVRQ91YHVGD5W8&psc=1&refRID=6VXDQGVTMS27QB3Z6SY8
Would you be willing to share the specific hanging housing you mounted them into?
@@TheBurchinalFamily
The main thing is to get ones that have the two following features... they are designed to hang, and they hold 4 bulbs and are about 12" wide or so.
Took some digging but I found the ones I got. I believe Amazon sells them as well.
www.lowes.com/pd/Lithonia-Lighting-4L-Grid-Shoplight-Linear-Shop-Light-Common-4-ft-Actual-12-in-48-in/1001382788
It doesn't say they are full spectrum. I thought grow lights needed to be full spectrum to not have "leggy" seedlings. I am looking to add to my starter lights, but I didn't want to pay the price I did on my original fluorescent lights. Thanks for the info.
Hey Tangela, a lot of people start lights without full spectrum. If you are wanting to take them to the flowering stage, you will definitely want to add in some more full spectrum. But for my purposes of starting the plants for 6-8 weeks before taking them outside the "white" lights works well enough.
@@PlantBasedGabriel good to know! I definitely don't take them to flowering stage - just starting for transplants. Thanks!
Thanks for the video and the link to the lights! do you think 6 lights are enough if I were to make a 21" deep setup to cover the 1020 trays that are 21" long? I'm going to set them from front to back in a deep shelf unit so I can fit more trays.Thanks again! just found your channel and subscribed.
that sounds very similar to my set up. So far all of my peppers have grown nice and thick with great foliage.
Barrina sells a 10 pack at 40 watts each for 130 online
I just copied this but with less lights.. boom boom 💥👏👌..thanks
I found it on amazon! Thank you!!!
You can buy the same light but with a clear housing and then you don't void the warranty.
those plastic shield covers slide off no need to cut them off lol
How far apart did you place each light besides each other? 2 Inches or 3 inches apart ?
I've got exactly the same lights but they've got a timer, unfortunately you can't override the timer.
Brilliant idea, could you use red lens to get the red spectrum?
You certainly could!
the white light of the LED includes the red spectrum
A red lens or cover does not add red light. It blocks some of all but the red component of the "white" light. You get red by reducing the total amount of light. Best to do without ant lens or cover.
Wouldn't this work to pot the clones for a few days in a drip pan and let them grow for a few days under these lights before placing them under the LED'S as a transitional period? Less shock to the new plants? Just an idea.
Has anyone got these lights to grow tomatoes and hot peppers indoors from seeds. As the Gabriel does not any feedback questions or did not do a follow up video showing if these lights are any good.
Lights have grown perfect peppers and tomatoes for a couple of years now :)
@@PlantBasedGabriel Thanks for the reply. But you should have make a follow up video to prove they work. It like building a car & not see it drive. The prove is in the pudding. I watch other garden shows and show it all.
@@PlantBasedGabriel Thank You Sir 👍, Appreciate you taking the time to Read and Respond, Sure Your Busy . Stay Safe
@@PlantBasedGabriel Thanks for the video!! I see you mentioned 4 lights might be enough, have you tried that yet or just the 6 light set-up (for a 20-21" depth trays)? Also what height do you set the lights above plants for veggies? I know for flourescents it's around 2", and usually for regular grow LEDs it's much further like 12+" I think, but what did you find for these? I'd love not to shock my 350 seedlings as they're popping up now if I can help it ;)
is there an update 3 years later? has this been upgraded?
Good idea..✌
Nice video!
The kihung comes in both 3000 and 6500k. warm and cold light
Question; from the comments, it’s seems the single white spectrum is sufficient for seedlings. Would purchasing fuller spectrum lights significantly increase the project budget? Asking for a fiend. ;)
White is full spectrum. White is a mix of colors, not one color.
What if I just use the led strips? Those are cheaper than those
Does anybody know what LEDs those barrina 6500k lights utilize? Like in are those some special spectrum high quality LEDs or just some generic SMDs like you’d find on led strips?
So does the light hit the plants on the bottom of the rack or do you only put seeds on that shelf below it? What light is it you bought?
you need lights for each shelf...
How do u place them for creepers and larger plants
do you think you could use three bulbs per shelf?
If you ran the seed trays long ways, yes.
Just came across your channel, not sure if anyone asked but what are your thoughts using these lights for growing micro greens? Just subscribe, thank you for your content!
These are great for micro greens, you may be able to light with half the units per shelf because leggyness is less of a worry.
@@PlantBasedGabriel I appreciate you taking time out to reply!! I’m excited to learning more about starting a plant based diet! Stay warm and Keep Bringing Your Awesomeness!!
Do you ever have stretching issues with this set up at the height you are using?
ive been using these for a few years now. unreal results from lettuce to tomatoes to the bob marley. vegetation that is. i keep them 2 feet under lights and its perfect. i tried a foot but were too close. i was shocked and still am how nnice these are for the price
@@DollarsIsNonCentswould you need to change for flower?
How expensive are these to run?
How far away from the plants did you place them?
an inch or two
Anyone else wonder why you have a 3 prong connector ("grounded") on a 2 prong power cable?
How was the result?
Good video, Thank you
Do they sell them without the frost cover?
Hey Mike, here is the link to the ones without the frosted cover. www.amazon.com/Barrina-Integrated-Daylight-Warehouse-Workshop/dp/B07G2Q4VZN/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=led+light+shop&qid=1552921878&s=gateway&sr=8-10
More expensive though...odd
Do these have one or two rows of the led chips on them ? Thank you 😊
The specific lights have 1 row of LEDs. The manufacturer, Barrina, does offer LED assemblies through Amazon with 2 rows of LEDs that are about twice as bright, twice as much power, for about twice the price. Barrina also has a number of models with clear covers, so you don't have to cut off the frosted cover.
Is there a link to these lights?
Kelvin and lumens are measurements for heat and brightness for the human eye , if you were growing human eyes they might work very well , but actual grow lights have a spectrum called the ppfd , photosynthesis proton flux density , that fancy word relates to what plants need , red , green and blue light , actually white light is unneeded for plants , always look to the ppfd before buying lights , these shop lights will work for seedlings but will be almost worthless to grow plants indoors , you will need to keep the lights so close to the plants just to keep them alive .. its just not worth it , buy grow lights , not shop lights
Some of the cheaper Chinese fixtures have copper coated aluminum wires in them.
Did the metal holding brackets come with the bulbs?
Yes they come with the brackets.......I seen on amazon in description............www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HBT3BVM/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=youcanteatthe-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01HBT3BVM&linkId=a85b1c91a77040ff771cde486a6bb950
nice
hello
do you know how many lumens are all 6 led lights together?
they should be 2200 lumens a piece
lumens are ok to mention but you need to know the info on the strip also , they are 6500K cri 85 , 3 spaces 4 1/2 apart center to center and i forget if i was 9 or 10 inches from plant canopy the lux conversion worked out to 206.8 umol/s/m2 ( with the covers on ) i will let you know the numbers if i remeve the covers. i also have on my set up 2 4000K of same power as these 142.58 umol/s/m2 and run them on my lettuce and herbs, let just suffice to say i cannot keep up with the basil and herbs. i have lettuce for salads very regular at least 5 times a week with fresh herbs and get some tomatoes year round from my hydroponics
Are these regular LED light fixtures?
They are!
It will be cheaper if you purchase the led tube socket holder and do the wiring yourself
You made sabers
If I wanted to would I be able to hook up only two lights..and how many kelvin are each one of those light bars?
You bout 6 light sabers😁
I was just looking through the comments to find a star wars joke!! Great minds!! Great minds!!
The more lumens the further away from the plant the lights an be.
How did you decide how many LED tubes were needed per shelf?
By my budget and shelves. YOu could get away with using 4 maybe 3 per shelf if needed.
@@PlantBasedGabriel I had planned to use 2 strips at 48w and 6400K each. What is the ideal way of determining how many are needed?
Do I see WILD blueberries!?
U know that u can get led 5000k hyper tough for $20 at Walmart save u the time to do all that
We do have a nice collection off Hyper Tough LED lights! Here's a link to get a closer look. bit.ly/2KSNJhE
Looks like pretty good stuff, although at $48 for 6 (4 ft) lights I like the diy part of it :)
Dang, Walmart be lurkin’
Andrew Raymond Walmart ALWAYS b lurking...LOL
Not 48"
Call it the CROTCHSQAUTCH LIGHT. ha ha
Those covers slides off
hi, friend, do you wanna try our led light which can be used for the party and night club?
Not right now thanks
Not really.
Some people like to talk too much. Im not trying to spend my day watching videos, im trying to get the info i need so i can get my lights ordered.
Then move along....
use mirrors save electric