Enough lighting in the northeast

[sparky2010]

I live in central New Hampshire I have my orchids on my porch which gets eastern southern and some western exposure I am new at this so i would like to know if my catts, dendrobiums, and B. Nodosa hybrid will receive enough natural light or do I need artificial light?

[johnblagg]

a little hard to say without actually being there ....but if you get close to full sun sure.

Do you have bright enogh light to actually see a shadow from anything in the way there ....if so then I would say yes you have enough light and will have no problem.Full sun in the ealry morning untill about 9:30 and after 5:30 pm would be very good after your plants have adapted so if they have been there a while should be ok.

[sparky2010]

Thank you for the quick response. I can see shadows when the sun is out and it's not cloudy. I just wonder if this winter that there will be enough sun shine it can be quite dreary and overcast through Jan. and Feb. very short days too- sun comes up around 6:30-7 and is down by 4pm. If I do need some artificial light what is best to use?
Thank you

[Orchid126]

How low do the temps get on your porch?

[sparky2010]

I will have to keep it heated constantly -but may end up having to move them and I don't have lighting that good anywhere else so I'm wondering what is the best type of artificial lighting? Thanks