Should I go with a 4' four bulb or six t5?

[brn_thmbs]

I just brought in my shelves, exact same size & I got a pair of 4 x 4' T5HOs that are more than enough. I'm actually having to adjust the distance to the plants b/c some bright light lovers are going dark purple (like really dark).
I also wrapped 3 sides in a reflective bubble-wrap insulation to keep the temps up a bit. It's called Reflectix I think & can be found at your local HD/Lowes type home improvement store (comes in rolls). Cool stuff, it's not wimpy, real durable actually. Check it out I recommend it if you're looking for some insulation.

[billc]

Originally Posted by Purple_phal_gal13

May I ask what kind of silver insulation you use around your rack? I'm setting up a similar orchid shelf using the same kind of shelving. The lighting information really helps too.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

I'm not sure what you mean by silver insulation, but if you are looking for a reflective material this might fit the bill.
Reflective Mylar
You may want to pick up a pair of sunglasses also.

Bill

[brn_thmbs]

This is the reflective bubble wrap insulation I was talking about. Much more durable than Mylar.

HomeDepot link

[Purple_phal_gal13]

That's perfect! That's exactly what I need for my setup. Thank you so much for the link.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

[jeremyinsf]

I'm curious what people think of their new lights and reflective material. Post pictures perhaps? I love my lights - totally changed my orchid growing!

[Kino]

I am ordering shelving unit at the same size;

48" X 18" X 77"

Noticed you purchased "a pair of 4 x 4' T5HOs that are more than enough".

From whom did you purchase your lights?

Is this your only source of lighting. My setup will require 100% artificial lighting as it will be in a basement.

Thank you for your help!

[Kino]

This is a very helpful link. Thank you to all who have contributed so far.

Kino