Tuesday 16 October 2007

Reflective lining - maximizing light levels

Reflective lining is the next thing you will need for your grow room. Which type you go for is mainly your own choice but also partly depends on the type of growroom you're using.

Reflective lining is used to ensure that light can reach the lower leaves and branches of your plants, especially when they are thickening at the top. The lining's effectiveness is also influenced by the distance of your plants from the sides of the growroom. The walls should be as close as possible to the growing area to maximize the light reflecting properties of your chosen lining.

The best choices are either Mylar or diamond reflective sheeting which reflects up to 95% of light when tacked flat against walls. Loose or wavy Mylar is not so efficient and will decrease reflective ability. Best for stable walls such as a closet or wardrobe. Can be quite expensive if you're working on a budget.

White plastic sheeting is around 90-93% efficient and can be used to make portable, waterproof walls. Cheap black plastic sheeting will ensure no light leaks into or out of your grow room.

Flat white emulsion paint is also an efficient light reflector. This is ideal where you are working on a tight budget.

NEVER use tin foil to line your growroom. This causes hot-spots and can damage your plants.

You can also paint the floor of the room or, alternatively, you can purchase a special lining for the floor which is not only reflective, but also waterproof and easy to clean. Good for hygiene.

Whatever lining you choose, you should remember that this is an important part of the design of your growroom. As light is probably the most important factor for the success of your crop, it is common sense that dictates you should maximize the light available to your plants. Lack of light to the lower leaves can spell disaster to even an experienced grower.