Light is the driving force behind photosynthesis. The right intensity and duration are essential to help your plants thrive indoors or in controlled environments. Our light converter helps you determine the correct light levels (lux → PPFD) and daily light hours depending on the crop type and its growth stage. By combining this with our Light Schedule Converter, you can fine-tune your indoor garden lighting for maximum growth and yield.
Why Use a Light schedule Converter?
- Convert lux to PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) for plant needs.
- Find the right daily light hours based on crop type.
- Prevent light stress from too much or too little exposure.
- Save electricity by optimizing light usage.
Light Requirements by Plant Type
| Plant Type | Growth Stage | Recommended PPFD (µmol/m²/s) | Daily Light Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lettuce & Leafy Greens | Vegetative | 100–300 | 12–16 hrs |
| Tomatoes | Fruit/Flowering | 400–700 | 14–18 hrs |
| Peppers | Fruit/Flowering | 400–600 | 14–16 hrs |
| Herbs (Basil, Mint, Rosemary) | Vegetative | 200–400 | 12–16 hrs |
| Strawberries | Fruit Production | 200–400 | 12–14 hrs |
Tips for Better Indoor Lighting
- Keep grow lights at the recommended distance to avoid leaf burn.
- Use full-spectrum LED lights for balanced growth.
- Adjust light duration between vegetative and flowering stages.
- Pair your light calculator with the Light Schedule Calculator for precision control.
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FAQs
How many hours of light do hydroponic plants need?
Most hydroponic plants need 12–16 hours of light per day. Fruiting crops like tomatoes may require up to 18 hours during peak growth.
Can I use sunlight instead of grow lights?
Yes, but indoor growers often use LED grow lights for consistency. Sunlight can be supplemented with grow lights when natural intensity is low.
What is the difference between lux and PPFD?
Lux measures light intensity as perceived by the human eye, while PPFD measures light useful for photosynthesis (µmol/m²/s). Plants respond to PPFD, not lux, which is why conversion is necessary.
Do different plants need different light schedules?
Yes. Leafy greens generally need moderate light with longer durations, while fruiting plants like peppers and tomatoes need higher intensity and slightly shorter cycles for best production.
How do I know if my plants are getting too much light?
Signs of light stress include leaf curling, bleaching, and dry patches. Lower the intensity or increase the distance between lights and plants if these appear.