Choosing lighting setup for phals + other plants

[Ray]

Hey Naoki - No spreading of false information! My LEDs are $20, not $29 (they were originally, but I have worked a better deal with the manufacturer due to the volume sold.)

I would take a different approach - my understanding is that T8 and T5 lamps put out the same lumens per watt, making a single 4', 54W T5HO a better choice per shelf. Another alternative being 4 of my LEDs, costing more initially, but not generating as much heat nor needing replacement for a much longer period of time.

[czayta]

Originally Posted by Ray

Hey Naoki - No spreading of false information! My LEDs are $20, not $29 (they were originally, but I have worked a better deal with the manufacturer due to the volume sold.)

I would take a different approach - my understanding is that T8 and T5 lamps put out the same lumens per watt, making a single 4', 54W T5HO a better choice per shelf. Another alternative being 4 of my LEDs, costing more initially, but not generating as much heat nor needing replacement for a much longer period of time.

I had a 4ft, 4 bulb T5HO light about 12-16in away from my tray Cattleya seedlings and they started turning very red/purple after a week or two. I have turned the light off, but I would like to work it back into their normal culture. Is there any way for me to figure out the amount of light/foot candles without purchasing an expensive light meter? Perhaps you have recommendations for cattleya seedlings and T5HO lights Ray?