Installed new t5 florescent fixture

[Ross]

Installed a big "New Wave" fixture - 8 tube 48" t5 florescent. I am using a 50/50 mix of 6500K and 3000K bulbs. My primary use is to grow radish, leaf lettuce, and spinach over the winter, but I thought the light readings were of interest to orchid growers. I just measured 3600 foot candles at the top of planter which is 11" below the lights. This leaves us with a wonderful conclusion: can we grow Cats under t5's? Obviously yes. In fact, just about any orchid I am aware of can be grown under t5, given enough bulbs. Can we burn the leaves of orchids under t5s? Yep!