Lighting Advice

[Gilli]

Hi Guys

I have a mature 250L tank which came with 2 x 30W ordinary tube lights which ive always stuck with. The live plants I have in there have done ok but I would like to plant more so am I right in thinking that if I upgrade to T lights it would be better? Can some recommend the wattage I should go for please as I know nothing about these bulbs other than they promote plant growth?

 

[KISSfn]

You currently have 1 watt per gallon which is considered low lighting. You would have to double your wattage to achieve medium lighting and triple it to achieve high lighting. Lights need to be replaced every 6 months to a year as they lose intensity over time.

 

[Gilli]

So if I just doubled the bulb wattage to 2 x 60 watt bulbs would that be as good as one of these T bubls which are supposed to promote growth then? Ive had a quick look on ebay but cant find any 60w bulbs?

 

[KISSfn]

Doubling the wattage is better than what you have but I'm not sure if they would be as good as bulbs that promote plant growth. I'm in the process of trying to learn plant lighting too. I have 2 10K white bulbs and 2 Actinic bulbs and it seems the combo is providing good signs of growth. I would try doubling your wattage first and seeing if that helps before spending money on expensive plant labeled lights. Hardware stores sell 60W bulbs at a good price.